NEWSLETTER
Throughout New York State, towns, cities, and villages radiate with warmth and cheer during the winter months. Postcard-perfect main streets sparkle under blankets of snow, city skylines dazzle with holiday light displays, and lakeside villages transform into enchanting winter retreats. From festive markets and world-class dining to cozy inns and exhilarating outdoor adventures, these charming destinations embrace the magic of the season, offering frosty fun at every turn.
Lake Placid (Adirondacks)
A snow globe of winter magic awaits in Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks. This lively town is a dream destination for winter sports enthusiasts and holiday revelers alike. Hit the slopes at Whiteface Mountain, glide across the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, or skate at one of the three historic rinks inside the Olympic Center, where you’ll also be immersed in exhibits of Olympic glory. Travel by paws on a legendary dog sled ride across the shimmering Mirror Lake or explore miles of scenic trails on snowshoes against the background of the high peaks. Soar to new heights at the Olympic Jumping Complex and feel the thrill of winter competitions and recreation all season long, including the Freestyle Aerials World Cup (January 18-19) , Ski Jumping World Cup (February 7-9), Bobsled & Skeleton World Championship (March 6-16), Empire State Winter Games (January 30-February ), and Adirondack Winter Pride ski weekend.
Lake Placid’s Main Street radiates holiday cheer, with twinkling lights, festive decor, and an array of charming shops, eateries, and inns. Welcome winter into the village during the beloved Holiday Village Stroll (December 13-15). Warm up at any time with craft ales, hearty pub fare, and cozy vibes, at the Lake Placid Pub & Brewery, hailed by Skiing magazine as a top-quality brewpub.
Just a half-hour from Lake Placid is the The Wild Center and Wild Walk, offering enchanting experiences, from treetop trails with whimsical features like a human-sized bird nest to interactive exhibits like Forest Music and Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork. Through February 22 the center glows with Wild Lights, creating an illuminated winter wonderland.
Ellicottville (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Venture to Ellicottville, a vibrant winter destination known for its lively atmosphere and thrilling activities. Shred some fresh powder on a ski getaway to Holiday Valley or HoliMont. Partake in a unique adventure on the Holiday Valley Mountain Coaster, a thrilling ride that pulls you up 283 feet before sending you zooming down a winding track.
The beloved Ellicottville Brewing Company has been proudly “Brewed to Entertain” since 1995, making it the go-to gathering spot for good times, great brews, mouth-watering grub, and cozy vibes.
For a more serene escape, recharge at Ellicottville Salt Cave, western New York’s first authentic Himalayan salt cave. This intimate oasis features salt-lined floors, walls, and ceilings, creating a tranquil atmosphere where you can lounge in gravity chairs or relax on the salt floor while breathing in the therapeutic salt air.
Take a joyride less than an hour away, where the National Comedy Center promises side-splitting laughs to beat the winter blues, while the Lucy Desi Museum celebrates the timeless humor and legacy of Lucille Ball.
Ellicottville keeps the energy high all season long with a calendar packed with festive events, including the Winter Blues Weekend (January 17-19), Winter Music Jam (February 22-23), A Christmas Stroll (December 14), and Mardi Gras Weekend (March 8-9).
Lake George (Adirondacks)
Lake George isn’t just for summer; winter in this charming and vibrant village draws visitors from around the globe! Join in on Winter Carnival weekends (February), Funky Ice Fest (January 24-February 1), and the Sagamore Resort’s Glacier Ice Bar (January 24, 25, 31, and February 1). From frostbite cruises to the chilling and thrilling Polar Plunge and countless New Year’s Eve parties, there’s always something happening.
When the lake freezes over, adventure is abundant. Snowmobile or snowshoe across its 32-miles of natural beauty, or try your hand at ice fishing. Just 15 minutes away, West Mountain offers skiing and a fun-filled tubing park, while Gore Mountain, New York’s largest ski resort, is only 30 minutes from town, promising thrilling runs and lively après-ski vibes.
For a sweet escape, visit Barkeater Chocolates, a haven of world-class confections where you can take chocolate-making classes or go on a haunted factory tour. March brings Thurman Maple Days, one of New York’s largest maple festivals, celebrating the region’s sweetest tradition.
Cheer on the Adirondack Thunder hockey team at Cool Insuring Arena in nearby Glens Falls, a city full of charm, arts, and a bustling dining and shopping scene.
Prefer to stay warm indoors? Drink and dine in style in heated outdoor igloos at spectacular spots like The Queensbury Hotel, The Inn at Erlowest, The Barrel, or Bolton Landing Brewing Company. For more cozy fun, create custom candles at WAXnWix or enjoy wine tastings and events at the Adirondack Winery, including trivia and game nights, dueling pianos, and live music.
Manhattan (New York City)
There’s no place quite like New York City in the winter. As snow covers the streets, iconic landmarks and skyline, neighborhoods and shops add to the magic with extraordinary light displays. At Rockefeller Center, the towering Christmas tree illuminates the plaza, while skaters glide across the rink. Just a short stroll away, the Bryant Park Winter Village offers a movie-like ice skating experience of its own, surrounded by pop-up shops, and Instagrammable tasty treats.
Broadway always delights with unforgettable shows, while Lincoln Center hosts world-class cultural performances, and the Rockettes kick things off at Radio City Music Hall.
Fifth Avenue's department store windows become wintery masterpieces, and Dyker Heights fills Brooklyn blocks with over-the-top holiday decorations and entertainment. For even more chills and cheers, trek to the Bronx for the Holiday Train Show (through January 20) at the New York Botanical Garden or to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden for their magical Lightscape event (through January 5).
Score some fun when you root for the home teams this winter. Catch the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center or the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, and stick around for a New York Rangers game on the ice at Madison Square Garden.
Syracuse (Finger Lakes)
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Syracuse thrives in winter, offering a lively mix of arts, culture, outdoor adventures, sports and festive activities. Explore engaging exhibits at the Everson Museum of Art or delve into science and innovation at MOST, featuring fossils, planetarium shows, and interactive science exhibits. For a roaring good time, visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo's Holiday Nights, where sparkling displays transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.
Hit the ice at Clinton Square Ice Rink in the heart of downtown surrounded by the city skyline. Snowshoe scenic trails at Highland Forest, or hit the slopes at nearby Song Mountain. Cheer on the Syracuse Orange at the Dome for an unforgettable basketball game, or shop, dine, and play at DestinyUSA, home to WonderWorks amusement park and the world’s largest suspended indoor ropes course.
Don't miss Lights on the Lake (through January 13), a two-mile sparkling holiday display at Onondaga Lake Park, or embrace the excitement of Syracuse Winterfest (February 13-23) with human dog sled races, fireworks, wing walks, ice carving, trivia, cook-offs, treasure hunts, cocktail mix-offs, and more!
Skaneateles (Finger Lakes)
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Winter in Skaneateles is a scene straight out of a storybook. The highlight of the season is Dickens Christmas in mid-December, where costumed carolers, horse-drawn wagon rides, and lively Dickensian characters bring holiday cheer to the village streets. In late January, Winterfest takes the village by storm, featuring ice carving demonstrations, dozens of ice sculptures on display, food tastings, and a polar plunge into the lake.
Stroll along Genesee Street, lined with boutique shops and cozy cafes, and enjoy views of the shimmering Skaneateles Lake. Foodies will love Rosalie’s Cucina, known for its Italian-inspired dishes, and the farm-to-table dishes at The Sherwood Inn, a historic gem with cozy fireplaces. Satisfy your sweet tooth with scratch-made donuts and hot cocoa from Skaneateles Bakery. Anyela’s Vineyards offers tastings of local wines in a serene vineyard setting. For a touch of luxury, unwind at the 12,000 square-foot, French-inspired world-class Mirbeau Inn & Spa, where you can enjoy soothing spa treatments or relax by a crackling fireplace.
East Aurora (Greater Niagara)
Head to East Aurora this winter, an inviting village just outside Buffalo. Sing along to holiday classics at the 52nd Annual Carolcade, a cherished caroling tradition in December. Browse unique finds at Vidler's 5 & 10, a nostalgic shop stocked with 75,000 unique items. Catch a classic film at the vintage Aurora Theater or skate across the ice at The Classic Rink. For a truly unique experience, cozy up in an igloo while dining and drinking at Rick's on Main.
Get into the holiday spirit at the Christkindlmarkt at Hofbrauhaus Buffalo, an alluring outdoor market full of vendors, festive lights, and seasonal treats.
Breathe in the crisp winter air as you explore 633 acres of scenic trails at Knox Farm State Park, where you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or even horseback ride.
While you're here, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the region's sports culture. Catch a Buffalo Bills game in nearby Orchard Park or cheer on the Buffalo Sabres as they hit the ice at the KeyBank Center along the shores of Lake Erie.
Rhinebeck (Hudson Valley)
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Rhinebeck in the wintertime feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie… because it is! Dating back to 1688, this historic gem is one of New York’s earliest towns, yet it remains vibrant and inviting year-round. The charming town’s tree-lined sidewalks sparkle with holiday lights, creating a magical atmosphere as you explore Market and Mill Streets. Browse the locally-owned shops and restaurants, stopping by Samuel's Sweet Shop for their legendary hot chocolate and sweet confections, and Oblong Books to pick up the perfect cozy read.
Indulge in relaxation or a meal at the historic Beekman Arms, America’s oldest inn, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating day at Mirbeau Inn & Spa. For a dazzling winter spectacle, visit the Wonderland of Lights, a drive-thru experience featuring captivating tunnels of lights and illuminated sculptures. Just ten minutes outside of Rhinebeck you can take a snowy and scenic stroll through Poet’s Walk Park (pictured), an intricately designed landscape celebrating the connection between landscape and poetry, offering spectacular views of the Hudson River and Hudson Bridge. For more arts and culture, enjoy a show at the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, where productions this winter include A Christmas Carol. Shrek The Musical, and Grease.
Saratoga Springs (Capital-Region)
With one of the highest concentrations of restaurants per capita in the country, Saratoga Springs thrives year-round, exuding extra cheer in the winter! Broadway, the heart of the city, sparkles with seasonal decor and offers a mile of top-tier dining, lively bars, unique boutiques, and nods to the city’s horse racing heritage. Spend a day exploring Broadway’s shops including Saratoga Tea & Honey, or stock up on one-of-a-kind souvenirs at Impressions. For a festive evening, stop by Lucy’s Bar, where twinkling holiday lights and an expansive cocktail menu will keep your spirits bright, or indulge in libations at the upscale Morrissey’s Lounge in the historic Adelphi Hotel. Step outside to Congress Park, where you’ll find tranquility in nature, ducks waddling around the pond, sculptures, fountains, and a carousel, making it a prime spot for scenic snowshoeing!
A visit to Saratoga Spa State Park is a winter must, where you can sip from the famed mineral springs, glide along cross-country skiing trails, or explore snowy pathways winding past geysers and snow-laden trees. Nearby, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Automobile Museum, and the Tang Teaching Museum.
Winter ushers in two of Saratoga’s most beloved traditions. New Year’s Eve downtown is a two-day party filled with unforgettable fun for the whole family. February is all about Chowderfest, now in its 26th year. This culinary celebration brings over 40,000 visitors together to savor creative chowders from 80 local restaurants while enjoying festive winter activities throughout the town.
Cooperstown (Central New York)
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Nicknamed “America’s Hometown,” Cooperstown radiates seasonal charm with an array of attractions for everyone to enjoy. Sports enthusiasts can embrace the spirit of the game year-round at the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Stroll down Main Street, lined with shops and eateries offering everything from baseball memorabilia to local treasures. In December when the sun sets, Glimmer Nights at Fenimore Farm & Country Village offers a festive glow. Nearby, Glimmerglass State Park invites outdoor enthusiasts to wander snow-dusted trails, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, all set against the backdrop of Otsego Lake.
Brewery Ommegang, situated on a picturesque 136-acre farmstead, is a hotspot for craft beer lovers. Its Tap House has a 20 tap bar, a 10 tap tasting room, and a brewery story also on-site. Weekly events keep the party going all winter longer, including guided tastings, trivia, brunch bingo, and Rhythm and Brews.
For more festive fun, don’t miss the Victorian Candlelight Christmas Tour (December 14-15), Oneonta Festival of Lights (December 14), Rockin' Around Cooperstown Ugly Sweater Run/Walk (December 14), and Holiday of Lights (December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20-23) at Otsego County Fair.
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