Things to do, places to eat, shows to see, places to stay in Madison County, NY      

I LOVE NEW YORK has some timely news for summer travelers: you can have an amazing and affordable vacation in your own backyard on just a single tank of gas! I LOVE NEW YORK is launching its 2011 campaign, More Smiles Per Gallon, which features ways for travelers within driving distance of New York State to enjoy affordable getaways on a tank of gas.

The kickoff of the summer campaign will begin with the introduction of an online guide and planning tool highlighting ten adventures that can be taken on a single tank of gas in New York State. Links will be provided on each itinerary to connect visitors with the attractions and destinations they will be visiting, as well as links to regional tourism websites for further information on dining, lodging, summer events listings and any summer packages and promotions that may be available.

“The message to travelers this summer is simple: don’t let the high price of gas at the pumps stop you from enjoying a world class vacation here in New York,” said Edward Maitino, Managing Director of the Division of Tourism at Empire State Development.  “I LOVE NEW YORK has put together these affordable and inspiring packages that invite New Yorkers and travelers from surrounding states and Canada to see for themselves the incredible travel destinations and adventures you can experience close to home on a single tankful of gas.”

According to the Automobile Association of America, despite the high cost of gas, travelers are not canceling their vacation plans this summer. In fact, AAA estimates 34.9 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more between May 26 and May 30 for the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

With the price of a gallon of gas jumping by more than a dollar over the past year, AAA acknowledges that high fuel prices are a concern for travelers this summer and will likely impact travel plans in some ways, including traveling shorter distances. In response to this shared concern, I LOVE NEW YORK is offering these exceptional and affordable travel itineraries.

John Percy, President and CEO of the Niagara Tourism and Convention Corporation, said: “With a terrific variety of ‘tankful of gas’ road trips from which to choose across New York State, I LOVE NEW YORK’s More Smiles Per Gallon program sends a positive message to travelers concerned about the price of gas this summer.”

Mary Kay Vrba, Dutchess Country Tourism Director and regional administrator for Hudson Valley travel promotion agents, said: “New Yorkers have so many choices for their summer vacations but the I LOVE NEW YORK More Smiles Per Gallon program provides means for travelers to discover the Hudson River Valley and other vacation destinations this summer. So start your engines and enjoy the best vacation you'll ever have!”

Thomas Becker, President of Chautauqua Institution, said: “New Yorkers love visiting Chautauqua during the summer season. An added benefit in these times of high gas prices is that the Institution is a walking / bicycling community and most visitors never touch their cars during their visit. Enjoy the best of Western New York at Chautauqua Institution.”

Jim Walter, Executive Director of Madison County Tourism, said: “New York is full of scenic byways, quaint downtowns, iconic diners and restaurants. This summer is the perfect opportunity to take a road trip and rediscover it all.”