ALBANY – There will be no admission fee to any of New York’s state parks this Black Friday, Nov. 24, in a state effort to encourage people to spend time outdoors, according to Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
Cuomo has announced free admission to all state parks so New Yorkers and their families can take advantage of the more than 335,000 acres of state-owned land next weekend.
“On Black Friday this year I urge New Yorkers to get outside and to take advantage of the world-class parks in every corner of this state,” Cuomo said. “By offering free admission, we encourage families, nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike to enjoy the unparalleled natural beauty right in their backyards.”
“The holidays are about creating memories, spending these moments with family and friends and state parks are the perfect places to fill those photo albums,” said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. “State parks provide the opportunity to invigorate our mind, body and soul and offer the chance to relax, rejuvenate and recoup during a very busy but wonderful time of the year.”
Throughout the year, other admission programs offer a variety of ways to enjoy state parks at a discount or for free. The annual Empire Pass Card is on sale for $65 through March 31 and offers family sharing capacities, the 3-year, 5-year and Lifetime passes offer park access at deeper discounts. All products can be purchased online at www.parks.ny.gov.
New York State encourages New York’s seniors age 62 and older to take advantage of the state parks Golden Park Program, which allows for their free entry into state parks weekdays by showing their driver’s license or state-issued non-driver ID.
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, which are visited by 69 million people annually. A recent study found that New York State Parks generates $5 billion in economic activity annually and supports 54,000 jobs.