upstate ny winter day trips

• Destinations
• Work With Us

12 Fun & Romantic Winter Getaways in Upstate New York

There’s no place like Upstate New York in winter. That’s why each year we at least book one romantic winter getaway in Upstate New York, if not more.

From our mountains like the Catskills and Adirondacks to the charming towns in New York , to our lake destinations where they get dumped with snow. There are endless winter activities in New York to enjoy as well as plenty of great romantic winter getaways. 

Check out all the fun places to plan a winter getaway in New York plus all the incredible winter activities to enjoy at each from outdoor adventures, romantic stays, wine tasting, a day at the spa, and more from some of our favorite places to visit in Upstate New York .

Disclaimer: This post contains commissionable links.

Romantic Winter Getaways in Upstate New York

• Lake Placid

Lake Placid offers so many great things to do all throughout the year, but their winter activities are next level! In fact, this Adirondack village hosted not just one, but two different Winter Olympic Games (in 1932 and 1980)! So, you know when of the best places to enjoy New York in winter Lake Placid is up there with some of the best skiing in Upstate New York and the East Coast.

It’s without a doubt one of the best places to visit in the Adirondacks in winter .

Things to do in Lake Placid

You can’t visit Lake Placid in the winter without stopping by the Olympic sites. They include four individual sites with different exhibits and things to do. You can tour actual sites from both the 1932 and 1980 Olympic games. Or check out exhibits with memorabilia like medals and uniforms.

There’s  Whiteface Mountain , where you can ski and snowboard the very same slopes that the Olympic athletes used! It’s no surprise that Whiteface is considered one of the best ski destinations on the east coast for skiers at every skill level. You can bring your own gear or take advantage of the ski resort’s great rentals.

And ice skating is a must while you’re in Lake Placid. You have several options. Create a memory and skate at the historic Olympic ice-skating rinks from each winter game! They’re indoor rinks that are open year-round, but you’ll want to check dates online before you go to make sure they’re open. But there’s nothing more magical than a dark winter evening skating on Mirror Lake with Lake Placid covered in snow before you!

Where to Stay

Some of the best parts of winter getaways in Upstate New York are the cozy, rustic inns where you’ll retreat at the end of the day.  Mirror Lake Inn  is the perfect place to warm your bones with a roaring fire. Book a room or suite with views of the frozen lake and the surrounding Adirondack Mountains.

You can also book spa treatments to relieve sore muscles after an exciting day on the slopes. Try massage treatments, yoga sessions, or even a therapeutic salt room.

If you love the idea of a sleepy town in the Catskills where you can watch the snow fall, Phoenicia might be right up your alley. This historic little town has always been known for its prime hunting and fishing, but we love it for its charming Main Street and all the fun outdoor activities to do close by!

Things to do in Phoenicia

Because of the sweeping mountainous terrain, one of the most popular winter activities in New York is skiing. It’s true that perusing the old storefronts and enjoying the local diner is a great way to spend your time here. But with all the great skiing nearby, there are plenty of ways to get your heart rate up during the daylight hours!

Not far from Phoenicia is  Hunter Mountain Resort , a massive ski area with 64 different trails that reach up to 3,200 feet. But that’s just the beginning at Hunter Mountain! Take ski lessons, snowboard, go snowtubing, or ride a year-round zipline. And at Hunter, you can rent a variety of ski and snowboarding gear.

Belleayre Mountain Ski Center  is another quality choice. They’re known for having the highest peaks in the Catskills! They have 50 trails with varying terrains for both beginners and advanced skiiers alike. There’s a fast gondola that leaves you at a mountainside restaurant and pub and different parks for additional snow sports.

If you’re looking for snow gear rentals, like snowshoes, we suggest visiting  Catskill Outfitters . The owners, Paul and Doug, are very knowledgeable in all things outdoors and are ready to help. You’ll find them just off Main Street in Phoenicia, at 7 Church Street.

Plus one of the best things to do in Phoenicia is to stop by and enjoy a meal at Phoenicia Diner, it’s seriously the best. Or one of the most unique things to do in the Catskills can be found at Emerson Resort, the world’s largest kaleidoscope housed in an old silo with a mesmerizing ‘kaleidoshow’ you can enjoy!

A stay at  Urban Cowboy Lodge is what romantic winter getaways in upstate New York are supposed to be! This beautiful old Bavarian lodge has the Catskill spirit but in the most elegant way and is one of the best places to stay in the Catskills (we’ve been two years in a row already). It’s been designed so each room has a special touch, and there are no TVs, so it’s the perfect place to unwind with your special someone.

You’ll love the giant windows for snow-covered mountain views. The room we stayed in had a beautiful clawfoot tub overlooking a panoramic window of the snow falling next to the glowing fireplace in the Alpine Bathing Suite. Picture yourself piping your favorite music to the Bluetooth speakers in the room and enjoying a warm soak while you look out over a winter wonderland! Book here.

Less than 2-hours from New York City, you can run away for a wintery weekend to New Paltz. The town is worth a visit during every season of the year, but in the winter, this Hudson Valley town offers a sweet setting for a wide range of things to do!

New Paltz is in the popular Ulster County, just south of the Catskill Mountains. It’s an area packed with fascinating history, especially this town, which was settled by French Huguenots fleeing religious persecution. The city is a mix of unique historic sites, a cozy, quaint Main Street, and a great wine scene!

When you’re not enjoying the warmth of Main Street Bistro or exploring the Shawangunk Wine Trail, New Paltz is a great base for exploring the ski resorts and natural areas all around it!

Things to do in New Paltz

Less than an hour from New Paltz is  Victor Constant Ski Area , a no-frills ski with a cool old lodge from the 1940s. It’s located at West Point, but it’s open to the public. There are a few blue and black diamond slopes, as well as a terrain park and a café. It has all the makings for a nice day close to New Paltz.

Also, less than an hour’s drive away is  Holiday Mountain Ski & Fun . This is an excellent option if you’re new to skiing. There are slopes for all levels of skill but are especially known for their welcoming staff and beginner-friendly trails. There’s also a huge snow tubing area, which is another must-do activity in New York in winter!

If you have your own gear, you can bring it and use lockers at each of the ski areas we’ve mentioned. But if you’re in New Paltz and find yourself in need of snowshoes, we recommend  Rock and Snow  at 44 Main Street.

And be sure to check out all the other cool things to do in New Paltz from visiting the historic Huguenot Village, find scenic trails to enjoy a romantic winter walk, drive to the pretty covered bridges nearby, or check out more of the coolest things to do in the Hudson Valley nearby.

The ultimate winter getaway in Upstate New York calls for a magical place to stay.  Mohonk Mountain House  fits the bill, with a vast, stunning Victorian-era lodge sitting on a mountain ridge overlooking a lake. It’s simply magical in the winter when it’s covered in snow.

Enjoy suites and lodges all with expansive views of the surrounding 44,000-acre natural area. Pamper yourself at the spa or rent skates and head to the skating rink next to the lodge. The resort also offers countless winter activities with guided winter hikes and cross-country ski trips.

So many places we’ve been to in New York have these fascinating stories that make you fall in love with each town. But none are quite like Ithaca, one of our favorite places to visit in the Finger Lakes , with its whopping 150 waterfalls, fascinating history of political activism, and magnetizing town center. Add to that a snowy blanket of fall and you can’t keep us away!

It’s a college town, home to the beautiful Cornell University. With that comes all the fun watering holes and shops on Ithaca Commons. In the cold of winter, you have a blast warming up in trendy cafes and restaurants downtown along pedestrian streets lit with twinkle lights.

Things to do in Ithaca

There are so many incredible things to do in Ithaca from visiting all of the impressive Ithaca waterfalls in outdoors or warm up inside at one of Ithaca’s many museums. You’ll find lots of great options, including The Museum of the Earth , an interactive geological museum with cool fossils. There’s also the  Johnson Museum of Art , a massive art history museum at Cornell University that’s open to the public. And if you like old mansions, nearby in Cortland is the  1890 House , the beautifully preserved home of a Victorian scientist. 

The natural beauty of Ithaca is what makes it one of the best winter getaways in Upstate New York. If you’ve never seen a waterfall frozen in the winter, you need to! But be careful hiking for waterfalls in the winter, when everything is iced over and check to see if the trails are open, do not go if they are not. An easy waterfall to view, and one of the best waterfalls in New York , is Taughannock Falls where you can witness the falls from the scenic overlook or grab your snow gear and hike through the gorge.

Instead, take a drive to Watkins Glen , where you can see the different frozen roadside Finger Lakes waterfalls in the village of Montour Falls. Or drive north a bit and see the impressive Hector Falls along Seneca Lake on Route 414.

Winter is also a wonderful time to enjoy winter wine tasting around Seneca Lake. This time of year, the little towns around the lake are quiet, wineries are going strong, and tasting rooms are cozy and warm. A few of our favorites along Seneca Lake include Lakewood Vineyards, Fulkerson Winery, and Catharine Valley Winery to name a few.

La Tourelle  is ideal for romantic winter getaways in upstate New York. You’ll love the King-sized rooms with toasty fireplaces and special packages like champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries welcoming you to the hotel! You can also enjoy waterfall massages and saunas at the August Moon Spa.

• Skaneateles

The charming little town of Skaneateles, pronounced ‘skinny atlas’ sits on the northern end of the finger lake by the same name. The town dates back to the 1830s and has a notable past as an abolitionist community, even having documented Underground Railroad sites. Today, it’s the kind of town where you want to book a local hotel or vacation rental and just soak up the local culture!

Things to do in Skaneateles

Skaneateles is the perfect New York in winter experience with a historic town overlooking a white frozen lake. Come at the end of January when  Winterfest  is held at the lakeside Clift Park. It includes a Polar Bear Plunge, an ice sculpture contest, bonfires by the lake, and a local food festival.

All along the Finger Lakes, you have the perfect conditions for grape growing. Wineries are abundant and wine trails are super popular. Skaneateles is no different, and you should definitely do a winter wine tasting at  Anyela’s Vineyard . Deep into the winter, you can enjoy Anyela’s beautiful tasting room that hosts live bands.

And if you’re looking for a thrill outdoors in the winter, take a short drive from Skaneateles to  Greek Peak Mountain Resort . The largest 6 resort in central New York, it has 56 trails, 4 terrain parks, tubing, and nighttime skiing every day of the week. There are also 4 different eateries and a pub, as well as a spa.

The luxurious  Mirabeau Inn and Spa  is a necessity when visiting Skaneateles. It’s a high-end French-inspired hotel resort that feels like you’ve been transported to Europe. There are stone turrets, cobblestone paths, and wooden bridges over lily pad-dappled ponds. In the winter, it’s magical, half-asleep and glowing with ground lights in the snow.

You have so many options for inducing relaxation on a winter getaway at Mirbeau, with herbal saunas, heated infinity pools, mineral baths, massages, and more. Rooms and free-standing cottages look out over a replica of Monet’s gardens and include huge fireplaces and clawfoot tubs.

Geneva is a lovely town at the northern end of Seneca Lake, the largest lake of the Finger Lakes and one of the best lake vacations in New York . The self-proclaimed “Lake Trout Capital of the World,” the city is known for its fishing and watersports. In the winter, it’s the perfect place to relax after a long winter day of exploring the area around Seneca Lake.

Things to do in Geneva

Geneva is great for winter getaways in Upstate New York because of its ideal location for wine tasting along Seneca Lake. Starting in Geneva and circling the lake, there are dozens of different wineries that you can enjoy! In fact, the town is home to Winewagen Tours , which you can book to take you around Seneca Lake for a day of wine tastings.

Near Geneva, the village of Penn Yan is worth a visit! It’s another town on the northern tip of neighboring Keuka Lake to the west. Come here for the historic Main Street lined with beautiful 19th-century storefronts painted every color you can imagine. And the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail  nearby would make a great winter hike with flat, paved paths.

To the east, take a day to explore the historic town of Seneca Falls. There’s so much to see here, from the  Women’s Rights National Historical Park  (which is said to be the birthplace of the suffragette movement) to the bridge that was in the movie, It’s a Wonderful Life! After a wintery stroll around town, thaw out in the  It’s a Wonderful Life Museum .

Experience New York in winter at  Belhurst Castle and Spa . It’s a gorgeous old mansion with an interesting past full of drama. But today, you can enjoy a stay in the castle on the snowy banks of frozen Seneca Lake.

The castle is actually one of three hotels that make up Belhurst, and we think it’s the best choice! Belhurst Castle has beautiful Victorian-style rooms and suites that feel frozen in time but in the best way. And don’t forget about the spa, where you can get massages, facials, and body treatments.

Another magical place to visit in the Catskills in winter and one of the best winter getaways in Upstate New York close to the city. Everything in Hunter is all about Hunter Mountain Ski Resort. But drive down Main Street and you realize that, besides the looming Hunter Mountain to the west, this town has tons of history! It was established in 1813 and has been a Catskill destination for vacationing New Yorkers ever since. Today, you can savor this little mountain town with a winter getaway.

Things to do in Hunter

The Catskills are one of the most popular places for winter activities in New York because of the rolling mountain scenery. We’ve already mentioned  Hunter Mountain Resort , but this expansive ski area is worth highlighting. It’s the 2nd tallest peak in the region with over 60 amazing trails and a variety of snow sports that you can try. And a little further north, there’s also the town of Windham, another ski town that’s home to the Windham Mountain Resort . 

For a morning or afternoon full of winter beauty, take a scenic drive down 23A to the Kaaterskill Falls trailhead . You’ll park and take a 3-mile winter hike (or park on Laurel House Road and take an easier .2-miles in) to the stunning Kaaterskill Falls, one of the most impressive natural wonders in New York .

This hike is completely worth it to see the state’s tallest cascading waterfalls that reach 260 feet and cascade over a massive rock face. It’s stunning with blue ice, fluffy snow, and icicles dripping from the mountainside. You can even go up behind the waterfall! 

Most people assume Hunter and Tannersville are the same towns because they’re so close. We loved this quirky town, with its multicolor 19th-century storefronts. You can enjoy a walk along Main Street and explore antique shops and gift stores. Keep an eye out for all the Rip Van Winkle paintings, too!

Hunter is where you can stay at  Scribners Lodge , one of the best stays for winter getaways in New York. You’ll love this modern take on a rustic ski lodge with suites and lofts featuring handcrafted furniture, vintage rugs, and sweeping views of the mountains outside. There’s a skating rink, saunas, and heated pools, too.

• Lake George

Lake George is a 33-mile long waterway that’s earned the name “Queen of American Lakes.” The village of Lake George sits on the lake’s southern tip, within the giant Adirondack Park and its old-growth forests and rolling mountain peaks. Because of this, the village of Lake George has always been an outdoor lover’s dream and is one of the best towns in the Adirondacks to visit too.

Settled in the 1800s, it quickly became a vacation destination and never looked back! But even before that, it was an important site, with historic landmarks dating back to the French and Indian War. All throughout the year, Lake George offers a variety of activities, but none are as unique as in the winter.

Things to do in Lake George

One of the best things to do in Lake George in the winter, you have to see all the Ice Castles and Ice Bars! The Ice Castles Festival happens sometime around the end of January when temperatures hit their lowest. In Charles R. Wood Park, life-size mansions made of ice are built! Inside there are tunnels, passageways, lights, and even mazes.

Ice Castles is a family-friendly event and a lot of fun for everyone. But perhaps as an adult alternative, another tradition that’s naturally occurred is Ice Bars! Elaborate, simply beautiful bars made of ice can be found through late winter at some of the most popular hotels, bars, and restaurants in town. It’s a unique experience to order your favorite drink from a frozen bar.

While you’re at Lake George, plan a day trip to the Ausable Chasm. Throughout the warmer months, this is a popular Adirondack destination where you can see stunning waterfalls and dramatic cliffs running through a river gorge. But in the winter, the chasm is transformed into an icy wonderland. In the winter, you can take self-guided hikes of the Rim Trail. The Sanctum Trail is normally closed in the winter, but you can take guided hikes. If you have crampons, bring them, or they have some that you can rent.

Or take a short drive north of the village to  Gore Mountain , a skiing and snowboarding resort. This impressive mountain boasts a height of 3,600 feet with 110 trails, including some of the steepest vertical drops on the east coast! There are trails for all skill levels, but this resort really caters to experienced skiers. 

For a unique way to experience New York in the winter, book a room or suite  at the Sagamore . This luxury island resort feels exclusive, with 360-degree views of the Adirondacks on the icy lake. Enjoy the quiet while you try out all the decadent amenities at the Sagamore, like outdoor heated pools and a spa with 14 different treatment rooms.

This is definitely one of the most iconic things to do in the Adirondacks and one of the most luxurious romantic getaways in Upstate New York in winter and all year long.

Woodstock has always been home to the arts, with the natural beauty of the area inspiring painters as far back as the late 1800s. In the 1960s and 1970s, local music festivals inspired what would become the notorious “Woodstock” Music Festival. Funny enough, that festival was held 60 miles away in Bethel!

But even today, you can visit the town of Woodstock and have fun with all the craft shops and artsy experiences. Especially in the winter, it’s a great time to explore shops and museums and explore the great outdoors!

Things to do in Woodstock

Take in scenic views of New York in winter by going snowshoeing along the  Ashokan Rail Trail . You’ll find it a few miles south of Woodstock in West Hurley near parking on 28A. “Ooh” and “aah” over snow mounds and the glassy Ashokan Reserve as you enjoy this easy, defined path.

When in Woodstock, don’t miss out on the amazing shopping and food culture! Tinker Street is lined with a smattering of Arts & Crafts style houses, each with their own personality and purpose. You’ll find gift shops, thrifted clothes, bakeries, bookstores, and more. You can also warm up from your travels with some amazing soup or a good brew at one of the many restaurants and bars in town.

Woodstock is also famously known for its Tibetan Buddhist Monastery in town!  Karma Tryana Dharmachakra  (KTD) is just north of town. KTD is the North American seat of His Holiness the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa, and it’s a spiritual experience to visit. The grounds of the monastery are beautiful, especially in the snowy winter, but you can take tours on the weekend, too.

A visit to Woodstock goes hand in hand with a stay at  the Hotel Dylan . You’ll love this boutique hotel with beautiful, bohemian rooms, each named after a music artist associated with Woodstock Music Festival! Enjoy laid-back amenities like a pool, game room, fire pits, and more. There’s even a hard cider tasting room!

On one hand, the town of Hudson is a sleepy, 250-years-old town on the banks of the Hudson River packed with historic buildings. On the other hand, it’s experiencing a new wave of popularity with visitors to its historic Warren Street. There you can find trendy restaurants, beautifully restored buildings, art galleries, and boutique inns. It’s also a great gateway to excellent outdoor winter activities.

Things to do in Hudson

Hudson ended up being one of our favorite Hudson Valley towns we’ve ever visited that’s especially dreamy in winter. There are plenty of cool things to do in Hudson to plan an entire weekend around.

There’s a stunning mansion near Hudson that was the home and studio of the American painter, Frederic Edwin Church. The 19th-century Olana State Historic Site  also includes 250 acres of forests on a hill overlooking the Hudson River. The grounds include miles of paved carriage roads that are great for snowshoeing! While tours of the house cost a fee, access to the estate grounds are free and open to the public as a park.

Literally sitting on the border of New York and the Berkshires in Massachusetts is Catamount Ski Resort . It’s a modest ski area with a variety of trails, lifts, and a brand-new lodge. You can enjoy nighttime access to several trails and 2 terrain parks for a fun time! There’s snow tubing, and you sign up for alpine racing competitions. Plus, at Catamount, you have the option to rent a variety of ski and snowboarding gear.

Book an elegant B&B in Hudson for one of your winter getaways in Upstate New York. We recommend the beautiful  Batterby House , a large Victorian-era house designed with amazing taste! Each of the 21 rooms shines with top-notch interior design and luxurious details like designer toiletries and flax and cotton linens. At Batterby House, you’re minutes from bustling Warren Street, within walking distance from all the things to do in Hudson. 

Or, if you want something a little more intimate about 20 minutes away, you can stay in one of the adorable cabins at  Gather Greene . This is where we stayed during our winter weekend getaway, which is a great base for exploring around.

They have such a cool little retreat overlooking the Catskill Mountains from their hillside tiny cabins. These thoughtfully designed cabins may seem small, but they have the perfect nooks and crannies to tuck away your luggage and you can wake up to an incredible view!

The cabins do not have wifi or tvs, but we found ourselves spending hours playing board games! It’s a really cool stay and we both enjoyed the time to connect without screens!

• Chautauqua Lake

So I might get in trouble with including in this in the best places to visit in Upstate New York in winter because it’s technically western New York. But, as a child that grew up in Ohio, we always went to Chautauqua Lake in the winter for snowmobiling and I decided to throw it in the mix.

When it snows, the entire coastline around Chautauqua Lake turns into one of those Christmas villages, with colorful Victorian homes covered in snow! You’ll see people ice skating on the lake and the coastline is often busy with winter festivals. This is one of those Hallmark-feeling winter destinations, and I had to privilege of going here frequently in the winters as a child for the snowmobiling scene!

You can see why Chautauqua Lake has been one of the top summer destinations for lake activities since the early 20th century. In the winter, it still holds all its charm, but you can benefit from fewer crowds and more locals, plus plenty of outdoor winter activities from ice castles to one of the top snowmobiling destinations in the Northeast!

Things to do at Chautauqua Lake

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chautauqua Lake Snowmobile Svc (@clsnowmobiles)

For more fun winter activities in New York, Chautauqua Lake’s got you covered. Snowmobiling and ice skating are popular past times around the entire lake. You can find snowmobile rentals and trails all over. And on the coldest days of winter, it’s magical to ice skate right on Chautauqua Lake.

Eastern New York in winter absolutely freezes over, and you can make the best of it by enjoying all the local things to do, like ice fishing! Chautauqua Lake is one of the top ice fishing destinations, with an abundance of freshwater fish. And your getaway to the lake is the perfect time to try ice wine. It’s made of grapes harvested after they’ve frozen on the vine, and it’s a lot sweeter and more concentrated than regular wine!

If you want to ski near the lake,  Peek N Peak Ski Resort  is a must. This is a beautiful Old English-style lodge with user-friendly trails, cozy rooms, and a spa. And  Holiday Valley  is another great option with a variety of snow sports like Nordic skiing, or you can rent snowshoes at the lodge and head to the miles of trails around the mountain.

At Chautauqua Lake, there’s always something going on in the wintertime! The Mayville Ice Castle Festival  is a big one with chili cook-offs, snowmobile rides, and live music. The big event is when you watch the ice castle being built from blocks of ice, and then you can go inside!

Do yourself a favor and book a stay in Chautauqua Lake at the stunning Athenaeum Hotel . This is an unbelievably beautiful old Victorian mansion set on the Chautauqua Institute, with the perfect location right on the lake. And make sure to book services at the hotel’s St Elmo Spa.

The town of Roxbury is an idyllic Catskills town surrounded by giant rolling mountains. A drive down Main Street is a feast for the eyes with whitewashed churches, schools, and homes that date back to the 19th century. Let time slow down on your winter getaway in Upstate New York with Roxbury as your base as you explore the abundance of old forests and winding creeks all around!

Things to do in Roxbury

Use Roxbury as your base for thrilling days on the trails of  Plattekill Mountain . The ski area is an independent, family-owned operation that runs 35 trails on the 3,500-foot mountain. It’s great for beginners and families, but you can also find quality black-diamond and double-black-diamond slopes, reaching up to 2-miles long!

New York in winter also creates the perfect snowy setting for the beautiful historic covered bridges that you’ll find in the Catskills, there are at least six in the area including Downsville, Fitches, and Hamden Covered Bridge to name a few. We love going for scenic drives and finding them! Just around Roxbury, you can find 6 within an hour’s drive.

Also, head to Trattoria Locale, a quaint and incredible Italian restaurant in Margaretville near Roxbury for an intimate dinner experience to add to your romantic getaway in New York! We also loved dinning at the Fierce Grizzly in downtown Roxbury!

There are other fun things to do in Roxbury and nearby too that you’ll want to check out when you’re in town!

Enjoy cozy digs at a themed hotel when you stay at  The Roxbury . There are actually two locations just down the road from one another. Not only are the rooms beautiful, but they’re a lot of fun to experience with themes like the Wizard of Oz and Dracula’s Fangs.

The cottages at the Stratton Falls location is the spot that has the over-the-top and whimsical themed rooms like Dracula’s Fangs and Cinderella’s Gown, the two rooms we stayed in.

The Roxbury sites also include great amenities like spas and outdoor activities right outside your door. Oh, and they have their own waterfall on site!

Best Winter Getaways in Upstate New York in Winter (Post Summary):

Found this guide to the most romantic winter getaways in Upstate New York helpful? Bookmark for later or share the love below on Pinterest.

GET 5 FREE  LIGHTROOM PRESETS

16 Weekend Getaways in Upstate New York Where You’ll Find a Winter Wonderland

Summer in the city is a no-brainer. Between summery picnics in the park, dining al fresco on cobblestone street s, and late- night strolls when the sun's still up, an NYC summer never disappoints. Come winter? That's a different story. Dirty slush, freezing temps, and short days can cause cabin fever to set in real quick. And when that happens? A mid-winter weekend getaway in upstate New York is a must.

This winter, give yourself the gift of an escape when you need it most. Be it a weekend-long road trip or a train ride for a few hours in a new city, winter travel opportunities are plenty in the Empire State. Below, we've rounded up the best weekend getaways in upstate New York where you'll find a winter wonderland.

• 01 Lake Placid
• 02 Skaneateles
• 04 Lake George
• 05 Thousand Islands
• 07 Saratoga Springs
• 08 Tarrytown
• 09 Woodstock
• 10 Watkins Glen
• 12 Trumansburg
• 13 Catskill
• 14 Saranac Lake
• 15 New Paltz

Planning an escape? These are the best weekend getaways in upstate New York

1. lake placid.

Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks is Lake Placid, a geographically beautiful area with access to all things outdoors. If you're a skier or snowboarder, this is the place for you. Lake Placid has hosted not one, but two , winter Olympic games, and many athletes still train here today. There's no shortage of things to do: Take a dog sled ride around Mirror Lake, go ice skating in an actual Olympic oval, or ski the slopes of Lake Placid's crown jewel, Whiteface Mountain .

Where to stay:  Treat yourself to a hygge retreat in one of Eastwind Hotel's private lushna cabins, each of which is artfully curated in the most soothing Scandinavian decor. These chic, aesthetic cabins come equipped with everything you need for a cozy getaway, complete with a plush king- or queen-sized bed, pour-over coffee kits, and a private deck where (if you're brave enough) you can sit outside and watch the snow fall. When you want to warm up, enjoy a schvitz in the nearby barrel sauna, or grab a s'mores kit from the front desk and defrost by the campfire. Also not to miss? The breakfast basket, which is hand-delivered to your door along with a Stanley thermos of hot coffee and locally-sourced treats. Yum.

2. Skaneateles

A stone's throw from Syracuse, this lakeside village is considered the, "Jewel of the Finger Lakes" for good reason. Between the crystal clear lake, idyllic downtown streets, and overall Hallmark-movie feel, it's no wonder Skaneateles has landed itself on just about every upstate weekend getaway round-up there is. If you make it there before Christmas, you can might catch the annual Dickens holiday celebration. If not, no worries. There's plenty to do downtown, plus it's a short drive from vineyards, distilleries, and other cool spots that make it worth the trip.

{{post.sponsorText}}

Where to stay:  Splurge on a luxurious stay at the Mirbeau Inn & Spa , a 34-guest room retreat in a French manor house. Just don't go without pampering yourself at the spa, which offers unbelievably luxe treatments, massages, and facials to leave you totally relaxed. Or, book a few nights at the 2W Lake , a lakeside B&B that's a stroll from downtown shops, restaurants, and more.

If you live in New York City, you've surely heard of Beacon or, at the very least, seen it in one of your friends Instagram stories. The artsy Hudson Valley city is just 60 miles from NYC, so if you can't spend a whole weekend away, it's close enough for day-trips, too. Don't go without visiting the Dia:Beacon , which is home to the Dia Art Foundation's collection of contemporary art. After that, check out another gallery, pop into a local brewery, or catch a set at the Towne Crier Cafe .

Where to stay: If you consider love food,  the Roundhouse is the spot for you. The boutique, historic hotel is also home to the Roundhouse Restaurant which serves a menu entirely sourced from local farms, wineries, and distilleries. If you want to go the B&B route, check out Beacon Bed & Breakfast , which doesn't skimp on the good food, either. Each morning, they serve dessert-style stuffed French toast and pancakes, which you can enjoy on the wrap-around porch overlooking Main Street.

4. Lake George

In the summer, Lake George is another hotspot in the Adirondacks, thanks to its large, gorgeous lake. But there's much to do in the winter, too—especially if you like the outdoors, Lake George   plenty,  from your classics like winter hiking and snow tubing, to not-so-traditional experiences, like ice fishing and dog sledding. You're also a short drive from more skiing at Gore Mountain, so be sure to pack your gear.

Where to stay:  Scroll through any Lake George travel guide and you're sure to see The Sagamore somewhere. This luxury, 4-diamond resort overlooks the lake and is fully-loaded with amenities, including a golf course, restaurants, a spa, and in the winter, an ice bar and lounge. Or, tuck in at the Cornerstone Victorian Bed & Breakfast , which offers a 5-course breakfast in serene surroundings you'll never want to leave.

5. Thousand Islands

Like the salad dressing except way better. The Thousand Islands is an archipelago of more than, well, 1,000 islands in the St. Lawrence river between the U.S. and Canada. It's a coastal dream with hundreds of pristine lakes, rivers, and waterfalls to explore. Expect all the coastal usual suspects, like fishing, hiking, boating, and more. General sightseeing will not disappoint—the islands are known for their stunning array of lighthouses, castles, and Gothic cottages, so there's plenty to see.

Where to stay:  You can't go wrong with the Harbor Hotel , which overlooks the St. Lawrence river and offers a convenient location for exploring the Thousand Islands region. However, with so much charm and character, you also can't go wrong with an AirBNB. The Cozy Cottage Rental is located on the water a bit North of Clayton and has winter-friendly amenities like a fire pit for relaxing and roasting marshmallows. Or, this Apartment in downtown Cape Vincent, which is conveniently located 15 minutes from the action in Clayton and  is across the street from an island ferry for off-shore adventure.

New Yorkers know " Ithaca is Gorges"—the tagline celebrating Ithaca's famous gorges. The cute city sits on Cayuga Lake, right at the heart of the Finger Lakes region. If you're into all-things outdoors, this is the place for you. The area is stocked with trails (many of which lead to waterfalls), like Taghannock Falls State Park and Buttermilk Falls State Park. After your hike, pop into Ithaca Beer Co. for a Flower Power, or cozy up with a mug of hot cider at South Hill Cider.

Where to stay:  If you want access to downtown dining, shopping, and entertainment, we recommend staying at The Hotel Ithaca . The location is a vantage point for everything, whether you want to stay close to town or go explore. Downtown is also a hotbed of cute AirBNBs loaded with character, like the Studio in Downtown Ithaca and the Chic and Cozy Downtown Charmer , both of which are steps away from all the action.

7. Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is known for its race course, but that's certainly not the only thing to do here—especially come winter. Saratoga Spa State Park —which is known for its architecture and natural mineral springs—offers over 12 miles of pristine powder perfect for snow-shoeing and Nordic skiing. Saratoga Springs is also a short drive from the Southern Adirondacks, meaning if you want to venture up to Lake Placid or Lake George, not to mention Whiteface or Gore Mountains, you're only a short drive away.

Where to stay:  Local legend has it the mineral springs surrounding the area had healing properties. If you're looking to do some healing, The Gideon Putnam has got you covered. Here, you can soak in the effervescent mineral springs and experience the healing powers of hydrotherapy for yourself. If a spa isn't on the top of your to-do list, check-out one of the surrounding inns, like the Saratoga Dreams B&B or The Springwater B&B.

8. Tarrytown

When you need to get out of the city in a pinch, check out Tarrytown. This quaint hamlet is located in Westchester County, so it's out of the city without requiring a long drive. It's also next to Sleepy Hollow, the real-life inspiration for Washington Irving's spooky short-story. As expected, both places are loaded with legendary landmarks, including the Headless Horseman Bridge and Sculpture, Kykuit (the Rockefeller estate), and Rockefeller State Park Preserve .

Where to stay:  Like we mentioned, Tarrytown + Sleepy Hollow are both located only 30 miles North of the city, making a day-trip totally do-able. If you do want to stay overnight, however, The Tarrytown House Estate features 19th century mansions turned into guest rooms, making it an ideal romantic getaway or girl's trip.

9. Woodstock

Chances are, "Woodstock" conjures up images of tie-dye and peace signs. While the actual Woodstock festival was located about 60 miles away in Bethel, that doesn't mean the town isn't worth a visit. Unsurprisingly, the village is a goldmine for all things arts and culture, offering everything from sculpture gardens and galleries, to the world's largest kaleidoscope. Since its located at the foot of the Catskills, it's also a great spot to do some hiking and leaf-peeping before the leaves turn.

Where to stay:  Skip the chain hotel and opt for the one of hundreds of cool AirBNBs or home stays the area has to offer. Need some ideas? This Cozy Woodstock Cottage screams "anniversary weekend" and promises peace and quiet in a secluded setting. Artists can get some respite in the Rock City's Writer's Studio, too, and for an experience unlike anything else, escape to the Former Church on the Hill , which is literally a converted church.

10. Watkins Glen

Another Finger Lakes gem is Watkins Glen , an outdoor wonderland for avid hikers and nature enthusiasts. Of course, there's Watkins Glen State Park , which was ranked the best New York State Park by Traveler . But don't forget to check out the countless wineries, orchards, creameries, breweries, and farms in the area, too. And a stroll along Seneca Lake is a must, too.

Where to stay:  For deluxe accommodations close to everything, stay at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel , which, true to its name, overlooks the harbor. Or, take advantage of the off-season vacation rental scene for a home-away-from-home. This Lakeview Cottage provides unbelievable views of the water and overlooks a waterfall, while this Guest House includes a covered deck for snowy mornings accompanied by a mug of hot cocoa.

Snow-lovers—you'd be remiss not to head up to Hunter for a weekend. Nestled in the Northern Catskills, this mountain town gives you access to premiere skiing, snowboarding, and  apres at Hunter Mountain . Afterwards, schedule some time for recovery at the Mountain Club Spa, which is located on the mountain in the Kaatskill Mountain Club. Perfect for soothing sore muscles and rejuvenating for another run on the slops.

Where to stay:  For convenient ski access, stay at the Hunter Mountain Resort, which offers ski-in-and-out accessible rooms and packages on lift tickets and gear rentals. If you want to stay off-mountain, Hunter Inn offers charming amenities and convenient access to downtown shopping, dining, and nightlife.

12. Trumansburg

Minutes from Seneca Lake and Cayuga Lake is Trumansburg , an adorable village begging for a holiday visit. The weekend of Dec. 4, catch the local Winterfest, a community celebration of all-things wintery. When you're not shopping or drinking cider, you can enjoy snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding available in the local trails and parks.

Where to stay:  Indulge your outdoorsy side at the Inn at Taughannock Falls , which overlooks Cayuga Lake and offers premium hiking access to a 215-foot waterfall. Or, relax in luxury at the Gothic Eves Inn & Spa , which features two dreamy outdoor hot tubs and fine dining in walking distance.

13. Catskill

You might think Catskill is only an outdoor paradise—it's also an artist's paradise. It's tucked in on the banks of the Hudson River, which has served as the muse for greats like landscape artist Thomas Cole, painter Frederic Edwin Church, and writer Washington Irving. When you visit, be sure to walk across the Hudson River Skywalk and take a picture in the exact spot Rip Van Winkle was said to nap.

Where to stay: Mountain Brook is actually in Tannersville, a short drive from the village of Catskill. However, this Adirondack-style lodge is the perfect mountain getaway and even offers private cabins when you really need some R&R.

14. Saranac Lake

Saranac Lake is actually next-door neighbors with Lake Placid, so if you're up in the area, you can feed two birds with one scone and double-down on the winter adventure. In addition to access snow sports, the town hosts its famous 10-day Winter Carnival every February, complete with a full-blown ice castle. For a mid-winter trip, it's worth checking out.

Where to stay:  You can't go wrong with the Hotel Saranac . The historic hotel was built the Roaring 20s, and is now a downtown landmark that's loaded with amenities, including a salon and spa, a restaurant, and two bars. Or, rent your own cabin on Lake Flower, which is minutes from downtown Saranac Lake dining, shopping, and entertainment.

15. New Paltz

This mountain town is about a two hours drive from the city in the Hudson Valley , making it doable for day-trips and weekend excursions alike. Be sure to pack your hiking boots—the Mohonk Preserve offers more than 70 miles of mountain trails for running, Nording skiing, snow-shoeing and more. You'll likely want to wait until the ice melts to check out Mohonk's Lemon Squeeze , a rock scramble that leads to stunning views of the Hudson Valley.

Where to stay: Rather than staying at hotel, we recommend getting an Airbnb, like this funky Modern Tudor right in the heart of New Paltz. Or, embrace tiny home life at Le Petit Abris , a cabin in the Shawangunks mountain range.

Last, but definitely not least, is the town of Hudson, which is conveniently situated on the Hudson River. It was a major whaling port in the 1700s, and many of the same historic architecture remains today, making it great for history buffs. If sights aren't your thing, that's fine, too. Take a stroll downtown and pop into one of the many local retailers and restaurants, or check out the Park Theater for pop-up arts and events.

Where to stay:  Ahoy, history buffs—the Nautical Nest is calling. This boutique hotel celebrates the port cities rich whaling history with its seafaring design in downtown Hudson. Or book a weekend at the, which provides a cozy place to rest after a day of adventuring.

Loading More Posts...

The Beach Is My Happy Place—and Here Are 3 Science-Backed Reasons It Should Be Yours, Too

Your official excuse to add "OOD" (ahem, out of doors) to your cal.

4 Mistakes That Are Causing You to Waste Money on Skin-Care Serums, According to an Esthetician

These Are the Best Anti-Chafing Denim Shorts—According to Some Very Happy Reviewers

{{ successMessage }}

Please wait a moment...

10 Amazing Trips To Take Throughout Upstate New York In The Winter

From skiing and snowshoeing to cozy nights by the fireplace, explore the best winter trips in Upstate New York.

• Catskill Mountains offer skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, making it a magical winter wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Cooperstown is a charming village with the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, perfect for sports lovers and history buffs.
• Thousand Islands is an underrated destination with Boldt Castle and Alexandria Bay offering unique winter attractions and festive activities.

With its enchanting beauty and many exciting adventures, Upstate New York is a winter wonderland. Nestled in the northeastern region of the United States, this vast expanse of pristine wilderness, charming towns, and picturesque landscapes offers a unique and unforgettable experience for tourists and travel enthusiasts.

During winter, this region becomes the perfect destination for those seeking thrilling outdoor activities and cozy, heartwarming moments. Visitors can stroll through picturesque villages adorned with festive lights and decorations, while others can explore local shops and cafes in some of the most beautiful small towns in Upstate New York . Here are several amazing trips to take in Upstate New York in the winter.

10 Cheapest Hotels To Book In Upstate New York In November

10 catskill mountains - skiing and mountain scenery, the catskill mountains provide excellent skiing, snowboarding, and winter hiking, with a serene mountain backdrop.

The Catskill Mountains come alive in the winter, offering an idyllic playground for snow sports enthusiasts. Skiing at Hunter Mountain is a must-do experience, with its well-groomed slopes and breathtaking vistas.

For a more serene winter experience, visitors can venture to the Kaaterskill Falls area for snowshoeing through a winter wonderland—complete with frozen waterfalls and pristine forests. Tourists who prefer a classic winter pastime can lace up their skates and head to North-South Lake State Campground for ice skating. These mountains offer a unique blend of outdoor recreation and natural beauty that transforms winter into a magical wonderland.

• Top Attractions : Skiing at Hunter Mountain, Snowshoeing in the Kaaterskill Falls area, Ice Skating at North-South Lake State Campground
• Location : Hudson Valley region
• Best Time To Visit : Winter

9 Cooperstown - Baseball History And Quaint Village

Explore the national baseball hall of fame and museum and enjoy the historic charm of the village.

Despite the chill in the air, this charming village exudes warmth and cultural richness. First, the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum is a beacon for sports lovers as it offers an extensive collection of baseball history and memorabilia. Winter visitors can explore the exhibits in a peaceful and intimate setting, gaining a deeper appreciation for America's favorite pastime.

The Farmers' Museum transports guests back in time with its historic buildings, farm animals, and winter activities like ice harvesting and traditional crafts. A Visit to Cooperstown in winter promises a quiet yet culturally rich getaway for those who appreciate history, art, and the tranquil beauty of Upstate New York.

• Top Attractions : National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, The Farmers' Museum, Fenimore Art Museum
• Location : Near Otsego Lake

Tourists can explore more scenic trails at the Cooperstown Country Club for a cross-country skiing adventure.

8 Thousand Islands - Unique Frozen River Tours

Take a unique boat tour to see the frozen st. lawrence river and its islands.

Thousand Islands is a surprisingly underrated destination located along the picturesque St. Lawrence River. Its frozen landscape and the warmth of its attractions make it a destination worth exploring for an unforgettable winter getaway.

Boldt Castle , a renowned historical landmark, becomes an enchanting winter destination during this season. The grandeur of the castle dusted with snow, coupled with the crisp winter air, creates a fairytale-like atmosphere that is truly captivating.

Moreover, Alexandria Bay offers a festive atmosphere with holiday lights, ice sculptures, and seasonal activities. It's a perfect place to embrace the holiday spirit and celebrate the winter season.

• Top Attractions : Boldt Castle, Winter Wonderland in Alexandria Bay, Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing
• Location : Along the St. Lawrence River

This Is The Most Beautiful City In Upstate New York To Visit In 2024

7 ithaca - tranquil gorges and winter activities, enjoy the tranquility of ithaca's natural gorges and waterfalls.

One of the region's standout attractions is Taughannock Falls State Park , home to one of the highest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. In the winter, the park becomes a serene wonderland with frozen waterfalls and snow-covered hiking trails. It's a perfect setting for winter hikes and photography.

Ithaca is also home to Cornell University , and its campus boasts architectural splendor that shines in the winter season. Take a leisurely walk through the snow-draped quads and historic buildings and appreciate the Ivy League ambiance in the cold, crisp air.

• Top Attractions : Taughannock Falls State Park, Cornell University Campus, Ice Skating at The Rink
• Location : Southern shore of Cayuga Lake

6 Lake George - Snowy Lakeside Activities

The lake's frozen beauty adds a unique charm to the area.

For those who crave outdoor adventures, Lake George is one of the best winter destinations in Upstate New York because it boasts an abundance of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. The snow-covered landscape and the peaceful ambiance of the Great Valley region create the perfect setting for an active and invigorating winter escape.

With many things to do in Lake George , travel enthusiasts will be excited by the variety of attractions this lake offers. For instance, visitors can attend the prominent Lake George Winter Carnival event. This celebration features activities like ice sculpting, polar plunges, and fireworks. The frozen lake becomes a hub of activity, offering entertainment and fun for all ages, making it a quintessential winter experience.

To delve into the region's history, visitors can also explore the Fort William Henry Museum . It offers a glimpse into the past through engaging exhibits and guided tours.

• Top Attractions : Lake George Winter Carnival, Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing Trails, Fort William Henry Museum
• Location : Upper region of the Great Appalachian Valley
• Best Time To Visit: Winter

5 Finger Lakes Region - Wine Tasting And Winter Fun

This region is known for its wineries, and the winter season is perfect for wine-tasting.

The Finger Lakes Region has some of the most scenic drives for anyone looking for an enjoyable day out, even in the winter. Watkins Glen State Park provides a spectacular Upstate New York winter hiking experience with its frozen waterfalls, snow-laden gorges, and serene trails. Winter visitors are also treated to a more secluded and serene environment, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.

Wine aficionados will find the Seneca Lake Wine Trail particularly appealing. While the vineyards may be dormant, the tasting rooms remain open, offering a cozy atmosphere to savor local wines and take in the beautiful winter vistas overlooking the frozen lake.

• Top Attractions : Seneca Lake Wine Trail, Watkins Glen State Park, Ice Fishing on Cayuga Lake
• Location : South of Lake Ontario

4 Niagara Falls - Frozen Waterfall Beauty And Lights

Witness the stunning frozen waterfalls and experience the magical festival of lights.

Niagara Falls, one of the world's natural wonders, is a captivating destination in Upstate New York that offers a unique experience during the winter months. For instance, the Niagara Falls Illumination is a stunning sight to behold in the winter. As the sun sets and the falls are illuminated in a rainbow of colors, the contrast against the white snow creates a breathtaking and romantic ambiance that draws in visitors from around the world.

For a unique winter adventure, don't miss the Cave of the Winds winter experience. Visitors can don special gear and venture down a series of wooden walkways to get up close and personal with the falls.

• Top Attractions : Niagara Falls Illumination, Winter Festival of Lights, Cave of the Winds Winter Experience
• Location : On the border with Canada

10 Equally Amazing Things To Do In Niagara Besides Seeing The Falls

3 saratoga springs - winter charm and hot springs, enjoy the saratoga race course without the summer crowds and relax in the natural hot springs.

Saratoga Springs is another one of the best places to visit in Upstate New York during winter. It offers a combination of nature and relaxation, along with the opportunity to explore the region's rich heritage. Saratoga is especially renowned for its horse racing culture, and even in winter, the Saratoga Race Course is a historical gem. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the history of horse racing in the region.

For those who appreciate the arts, Yaddo Gardens is a must-visit. Although the gardens may be blanketed in snow, their beauty remains—providing a tranquil place for reflection and appreciation of the winter scenery. Saratoga Spa State Park is also a winter paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park's grounds offer excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

• Top Attractions : Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Race Course, Yaddo Gardens
• Location: Saratoga County

Remember to soak in the historic mineral springs at the Roosevelt Baths and Spa and enjoy the Saratoga Spa State Park trails for snowshoeing.

2 Adirondack Park - Secluded Cabins And Winter Sports

The largest publicly protected area in the contiguous united states.

With its majestic mountains, snow-covered landscapes, and Olympic heritage, Adirondack Park is a place that will leave visitors with lasting memories. Adirondack High Peaks , a part of the larger Adirondack Park, offers a haven for winter hiking and mountaineering. These towering peaks, draped in snow, provide a challenging yet rewarding experience for adventurous winter travelers.

Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort is another premier winter destination, boasting excellent downhill and cross-country skiing. With stunning views of the surrounding Adirondack High Peaks, the resort offers an unforgettable winter sports experience.

• Top Attractions : Whiteface Mountain Ski Resort, Lake Placid, Adirondack High Peaks
• Location : Near Lake Placid

1 Lake Placid - For Winter Sports And Olympic History

Lake placid offers a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and exploring olympic history.

Lake Placid offers a thrilling combination of Olympic history and adventurous outdoor activities in winter. Tourists can explore various Olympic Sites, such as the Olympic Jumping Complex and the Olympic Sports Complex. Here, they can try bobsledding or experience the thrill of skeleton rides, which are among the many reasons to visit Lake Placid in the winter .

The Lake Placid Olympic Museum provides insights into the town's remarkable Olympic history, including the famous "Miracle on Ice" hockey victory. The lake offers a charming winter scene, with frozen Mirror Lake providing a picturesque backdrop for ice skating, ice fishing, and serene walks along the shoreline.

• Top Attractions : Olympic Sites, Lake Placid Olympic Museum, Dogsledding Adventures
• Location : Essex County

• 7 Best Towns in Upstate New York for a Winter Getaway

Upstate New York , a vast part of the state, is beautiful in every season, with crisp autumn leaves reflecting in the lakes, the summertime allure of Hudson Valley, and an abundance of winter activities in the Adirondacks and the Catskills. Outdoor enthusiasts continuously visit, especially during summer when lake towns see heightened traffic. Lake Placid, despite being the most remote, is a winter hotspot in the Adirondacks, boasting Whiteface Mountain and its history as a two-time Winter Olympics host.

An hour south, Lake George offers tranquility at the unique Sagamore, a luxury resort with a serene winter atmosphere on the frozen lake. Family-friendly adventures abound, with the iconic New York State Zoo in Watertown and a vibrant après-ski scene at Hunter Mountain in Hunter, a small town brimming with charm under the imposing mountain.

Just 60 miles from NYC, Beacon in the Hudson Valley, known for its artistic flair, is an ideal winter destination. Its standout attraction, Dia:Beacon, part of the Dia Art Foundation, showcases a unique collection of contemporary art and draws visitors from all around. Beyond the numerous galleries, Beacon offers antique shopping and holiday browsing in distinctive boutiques, complemented by local breweries like the esteemed Melzingah Tap House. The town boasts scenic waterfront parks, including the splendid Scenic Hudson's Long Dock Park and Dennings Point State Park on its peninsula, both easily accessible from DIA.

The cultural staple, Towne Crier Cafe, adds to Beacon's charm, while Roundhouse isn’t just renowned for its cuisine but also for providing a restful stay. This historic boutique hotel promises a peaceful sleep and serves only locally sourced fare at its restaurant, including produce from nearby farms, wineries, and distilleries. Alternatively, Beacon Bed & Breakfast offers a delightful breakfast with treats like stuffed French toast and pancakes, perfect for enjoying while watching snowflakes from the porch overlooking Main Street.

Ellicottville

Situated in a prime skiing area, Ellicottville, Western New York, offers a range of winter sports, including downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country, and telemark skiing for all skill levels at Holiday Valley. This town welcomes visitors with an array of family-friendly activities and accommodations. The Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster operates on weekends, weather permitting, in both summer and winter. Riders control their speed down the mountain's natural contours.

Just four miles from the resort, Holiday Valley Tubing Co. offers snow tubing, including a section for young children, the Lil’ Tubers area. The Inn at Holiday Valley, adjacent to the slopes, features heated indoor and outdoor pools, warm hospitality, and amenities like a hot tub for post-activity relaxation, fireplaces in each room, and a shuttle service to and from the base. Ellicottville Oasis Spa provides massages and other treatments to rejuvenate guests for more skiing adventures.

Described by the New York Times as a "Small Community With a Feel-Good Spirit," Highland in upstate New York is an ideal destination for a winter holiday. The town is known for its scenic landscapes in Ulster County, blanketed in snow, attracting outdoor enthusiasts. The Rocking Horse Ranch Resort, popular in summer, transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities like horse parades, family carriage rides, and horseback riding for couples and children. The resort also features tractor-drawn wagon rides to campfires with s’mores, keeping the fun alive in the snowy setting.

Highland’s business district is bustling with new bistros, galleries, and cafes, nestled among quaint turn-of-the-20th-century buildings. Among these, Underground Coffee & Ales serves drinks from morning to night, while Vigneto Café specializes in Italian cuisine made with locally-sourced organic ingredients. The district's charm enhances the holiday shopping experience, with diverse dining options and accommodations for all budgets. Recently, Studio 89 opened, showcasing a mural by local graffiti artist Lady Pink, and Knaus Gallery & Wine Bar offers wine and light meals in a relaxed atmosphere.

Hunter, a picturesque mountain town, is home to the renowned Hunter Mountain Resort, a premier destination for winter sports in New York. Established in 1960s, the town and its resort, featuring the region's second-tallest peak and over 60 trails, have long attracted vacationers from New York City. In addition to skiing, Hunter offers a range of snow sports, ski-in-and-out accommodations, and packages for lift tickets and gear rentals. The town's charm is complemented by its easy access to skiing, snowboarding, and après-ski activities at Hunter Mountain.

Hunter is easily accessible from NYC and offers a rich history and year-round appeal. Scribners Lodge provides a rustic ski lodging experience with vintage room amenities, a skating rink, saunas, heated pools, and stunning mountain views. Mountain Club Spa, located in the Kaatskill Mountain Club on the mountain, offers treatments to soothe and rejuvenate guests after a day on the slopes. The Hunter Inn, near the town's shopping, dining, and nightlife, offers convenient access to Main Street and the nearby Hunter Mountain, which beckons with more adventures to the west.

Lake George

The village of Lake George , situated at the southern tip of the 33-mile-long "Queen of American Lakes" in Adirondack Park, offers a captivating natural setting with old-growth forests and mountain peaks. It's a sought-after destination across seasons, with its stunning lake reflecting nature's palette. The town surprises visitors with unique experiences, making winter getaways unforgettable. Along with classic skiing and snow tubing, activities include ice fishing and dog sledding.

For accommodations, consider the Sagamore, an all-inclusive luxury island resort offering panoramic Adirondack views, heated pools, a spa, and an ice bar. Alternatively, the Cornerstone Victorian Bed & Breakfast provides a cozy atmosphere and a five-course breakfast. In summer, the area offers hiking and golf at the resort.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid , nestled in the Adirondack Mountains, is a delightful destination year-round. This winter wonderland offers a variety of activities, including exceptional holiday shopping. Main Street is adorned with unique shops for home decor, gifts, and souvenirs. Enjoy evenings fireside with a hot chocolate at a local café, restaurant, or pub.

Whiteface Mountain, once an Olympic host, ranks among the top east coast ski destinations, catering to all skill levels. On-site rentals and a lively après-ski scene enhance the experience. Ice skating on Mirror Lake and at historic Olympic rinks is a magical experience. The Mirror Lake Inn, with rustic charm and Adirondack views, provides a cozy stay.

In the Thousand Islands-Seaway region, Watertown, a town of over 24,000 residents, exudes cheerfulness, particularly around its historic Public Square. Its independent retail stores, art studios, and local eateries offer a delightful shopping experience. The New York State Zoo showcases local wildlife in their winter habitats, including a variety of animals and a Butterfly House for a summery escape.

Thompson Park, spanning 355 acres, is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with trails for all levels. Its designed pathways, play areas, and indoor sports facilities cater to different interests. Nearby, Flat Rock Inn provides access to Tug Hill Plateau's extensive trail system. The 19th-century Paddock Mansion, now a museum, and the Holiday Inn Express & Suites offer comfortable stays, with the latter featuring an outdoor hot pool.

From the festively decorated Main Street in Lake Placid to the vast Adirondack Park, Upstate New York is brimming with surprises. Offering unique experiences and outdoor adventures suitable for all tastes, skill levels, and ages, the region features destinations like Dia:Beacon in the Hudson Valley, Hunter in the Catskills, and Lake Placid in the picturesque Adirondacks for winter getaways.

Beacon, known for its waterfront charm, is a popular day-trip destination. However, spending a weekend allows visitors to enjoy Sunday morning stuffed French toast on a wrap-around porch of a bed and breakfast, overlooking snowflakes along Main Street. In Watertown, situated in the distinctive Thousand Islands-Seaway region, the 355-acre Thompson Park offers picturesque trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, catering to both beginners and advanced enthusiasts.

More in Places

8 Best Small Towns in Oregon for Outdoor Enthusiasts

These Towns in the Finger Lakes Come Alive in Spring

6 Serene Towns in the Mid-South for a Weekend Retreat

8 Most Charming River Towns in South Dakota to Visit in 2024

These 10 Towns in Arizona Have Beautiful Architecture

6 Of The Most Charming Small Towns To Visit In Montana

7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Chesapeake Bay

7 Most Affordable Towns to Retire in Northern California

• JOIN THESE NEW YORK STATE TOURS

• Adirondacks
• Hudson Valley
• Finger Lakes
• Long Island
• Partnerships

Upstate New York

42 unique things to do in upstate new york + hidden gems.

Ahh, Upstate New York. One of America’s most hidden gems. Most people, when they think of New York, they immediately assume New York City. But did you know that NYC is less than 1% of the landmass of New York State? There are endless things to do in Upstate New York, too! From cute small towns to breathtaking waterfalls to fun young cities. Here are our favorite Upstate New York hidden gems!

Fun Fact: The dictionary defines “Upstate” as whatever is north of you. Since most of New York State’s population lives in the NYC region, we’ll define Upstate New York relative to NYC. AKA: Everything north of NYC. From the Adirondacks to Buffalo to the Catskills. Don’t fight us on this one. In addition to the dictionary, even Wikipedia agrees with this definition !

Favorite Things to Do in Upstate New York

Did you know that the entire country of Iceland could fit in New York State ? Our state is so big that we had to divide this list by region. So if you’re looking for a specific NY area, keep scrolling!

Did we miss anything interesting? Do you have a small local business you’d like us to check out? Drop us a comment below!

Catskills , NY

Book a horseback riding tour .

Combine a leg workout with exploring the Catskill’s beautiful nature on horseback! After all, New York State is horse country! So take advantage of the unique horseback riding culture just a few hours north of NYC. Here are some excellent places to go horseback riding in NYC:

• Tiffani’s Ranch : You can easily book this guided tour and either go on a private tour or join a larger group. Pictured above.
• Mountain Brook Farm
• Rough Rider’s Ranch

Hiking & Farm Experience with Llamas/Alpacas

If you love a hands-on experience with animals, this is the perfect activity! Llamas and alpacas are soft and cuddly creatures with an exciting history. From homestead owner and educator Andrea , you can learn all about camelids (the biological family containing alpaca and llama members) while getting up close and personal.

Walk through magnificent pastures and fields, strolling alongside llamas and alpacas with a large or private group. Don’t forget to take a llama selfie with the countryside backdrop!

Farm Animal Cuddles

There are a ton of farm animal sanctuaries and small farms in Upstate New York. I would recommend avoiding sanctuaries that house wild and exotic animals without researching beforehand; look into how they procured the animals, the history of the establishment, whether they breed these animals, etc.

On the other hand, farm animal sanctuaries are generally small farms that have saved or purchased animals to keep them away from slaughterhouses or similar fates. These farms may breed and raise animals themselves, but their goal is to keep these creatures happy and safe. Animals housed here are generally comfortable interacting with humans, especially children, individuals with autism, or people who suffer from anxiety. Cuddling up with a pig or goat can really brighten your day–except when a goat is in a mood and turns mean!

Cool Off in a Swimming Hole

Lakes scattered across the Catskill Mountains are perfect places to rent a cabin for the weekend. There are tons of swimming holes and hikes in the region, perfect for cooling off in on a hot summer day. With swimming holes growing in popularity, keep in mind that they may get crowded. Peekamoose Blue Hole is the most well-known, making it one of the most sought-after spots for many travelers.

You can visit a few lesser-known swimming holes if you want to avoid crowds. Diamond Notch Falls lies at the end of several different hiking trails. Kaaterskill Falls is another great swimming spot requiring a steep hike, with a swimming hole below the waterfall; avoid this spot on the weekends to miss the crowds.

Otter Falls is another great swimming hole located at the basin of 30-foot cascading falls. In the wet months, the pool is 6 to 8 feet deep. The dry months leave a shallow pool that is still perfect for cooling off in after a hike.

Visit the Town of Woodstock

It may surprise you to know that Woodstock, NY was not the site of the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival. This famous spectacle actually occurred in Bethel, NY, 60 miles southwest. If you’re looking to attend a show on these infamous grounds, performances at Bethel Woods Center for the Arts are still running strong!

Aside from this misconception, Woodstock is still an amazing town worth visiting. The local shops, eateries, and cafes exude the same ideology and allure behind the draw of the Woodstock Music Festival. There are amazing boutiques on Main Street where you can support local artisans and artists of the Catskills.

Tour Option: There is a Woodstock Rock n’ Roll Tour if you’re into music history!

Rail Explorers Railroad Tours

See the natural sights of Phoenicia, NY, with this unique railroad tour! Rail Explorers set you up on the tracks with an electric pedal-powered rail bike. Tours are offered at all hours (day or night), but I recommend a daytime tour to catch the views–unless it’s Halloween!

This experience is accessible to all and requires light exercise, which is perfect for doing with friends or family. While you may not get tired, paying attention on the tracks so as not to bump into the person in front or back of you is important.

I recommend booking the Golden Hour tour in the fall. Before your ride, hit the iconic Phoenicia Diner in town. Staying overnight? Hotel Mountain Brook in Kingston is a cute and cozy place to stay.

Go Hiking in the Catskills

• Catskill Hiking and Photography Experience: This half-day hike is a fun experience if you want photographic memories of your time in the Catskills. The Catskill Hiking and Pro Photography Experience provides you with an expert hiking guide and adventure photographer to show you the best scenic views and hidden secrets of the mountains. Hikes can be adjusted based on your skill level and expertise. Throughout the trip, your guide will snap Instagram-worthy photos to be emailed after the hike.
• Minnewaska State Park: Full of trails for hikers of all levels. Here, you’ll find waterfalls, lakes, and much more. This is one of our favorite places to go hiking in the Catskills.
• Giant Ledge : Giant Ledge is a moderate out-and-back hike that boasts the best views of all hikes in the mountain range! Adjacent to the trail are fire ledges with views that will leave you speechless. For hiking enthusiasts, this is a great spot to camp out for stargazing and wake up to a gorgeous sunrise.
• Ashokan Rail Trail (“ART”) : This hike opened in 2019 and is a shared recreational trail that lines the northern section of the Ashokan Reservoir in West Hurley. The surface of the trail is packed with crushed stone and fully accessible. Ashokan Rail Trail is an easy out-and-back hike for those looking for a leisurely stroll with great views.  

The Finger Lakes, NY

If you couldn’t tell by now, we LOVE the Finger Lakes region. This region has so many cute places to stay and even more things to keep you busy.

Explore Harriet Tubman’s Home

Step into the prior home of Harriet Tubman in Auburn, New York. This residence is where she spent the latter part of her life, and it’s now a United States National Park . Tours of the home are offered twice a day, and you must reserve a spot in advance. Harriet Tubman was one of American history’s most inspirational abolitionists, political activists, and female military leaders. Learning about her in her former home is quite the experience.

As of March 2022, tours inside the property were prohibited, and only outdoor tours were available. Call to check before making your tour reservation to confirm.

Join a Finger Lakes Wine Tasting Tour

The Finger Lakes tasting is fantastic, with three popular trails to choose from: Cayuga Wine Trail, Seneca Lake Wine Trail, and Keuka Wine Trail. There are over a hundred wineries across the region between these three trails, with endless samples of local creations. You can visit each location on your own (with a safe ride, of course, or by booking private transportation) or book a Finger Lakes wine tour.

Hermann J. Wiemer Vineyard is one of our favorite wineries in the Finger Lakes, especially if you love sipping Rieslings. Rieslings rule the Finger Lakes region, so if you are a white wine drinker, this is where you want to be.

Go Kayaking or Boating on a Finger Lake

The Finger Lakes is a kayaking paradise. You can kayak and boat most everywhere, with the most popular spots being Cayuga Lake, Seneca Lake, Keuka Lake, and Canandaigua Lake. Boating is so popular in the region that most vacation homes will actually store kayaks for their guests to use on their trips. If that’s not the case, you can easily rent one at several local agencies .  

If you own your kayak, you just have to get it out on the water! Ten launch sites are available across several lakes for visitors to use. For a full boat launch list , check with the New York Department of Environmental Conservation for details.

You can also book a boat tour with local operators who can often combine boat tours with winery visits and other fun activities. Ending your kayak or boat trip with a bottle of local Finger Lakes wine is the cherry on top of a fantastic day.

Dine at FLX Table in Geneva

New York City is not the only stellar food scene in the state. Foodies love the Finger Lakes for it’s amazing dining opportunities and unique cuisine. F.L.X. Table in Geneva is a small eatery with only 14 seats offering a 4-course, pre-set meal for dinner from Thursday to Monday. You get to share the space with the chefs crafting your meal in an intimate and charming atmosphere that connects everyone in the room. It feels like a personal dinner party!

I love that the prix fixe menu constantly changes, bringing fresh meal options to fit the season. Past favorites include dishes like Chicken Royal served with quinoa and burgundy truffle. Reservations can be tough at F.L.X., but there are other options to taste this cuisine through F.L.X. Bird for delicious fried chicken.

Horseback Riding Tours in Burdett

We love Watkins Glen State Park ­–its natural beauty is unparallel to any park you’ll find in most of the state.  Horseback riding allows you to explore the park from a unique vantage point, with tours available through Painted Bar Stables . Stroll by on horseback some of the best waterfalls in New York State! It won’t take long to see why this region is known for its natural wonders and great wine.

Horseback riding may be intimidating for some, but not to worry. Guided tours include expert riders who will help you along on your journey. Listen up because they’ll also share some pretty cool facts about the Finger Lakes area.

Hike to Amazing Finger Lakes Waterfalls

Hiking in the Finger Lakes is epic, with so many state parks, outdoor areas, and a national forest to explore.  To find hiking options near you, check with the closest state park to where you’re staying for assistance. Hikes across this region will range in difficulty, so you want to ensure you find one to suit your ability.

Buttermilk Falls State Park is one of our favorites, with stunning waterfalls and gorges. We also recommend checking out Finger Lakes National Forest . This gem has 30 miles of trails scattered through lush woods and serene pastures that sometimes have cattle grazing depending on the season.

Shop at the Ithaca Farmers Market

Tucked away on the shores of Lake Cayuga is the friendly young college town of Ithaca. We love this area, especially the Ithaca Farmers Market , which has been operating since 1973! You can peruse more than 130 vendors at the market selling produce and handmade goodies. If you’re looking to hike or horseback ride in the Finger Lakes, this is a great place to stop and grab some snacks for your trip. This is one of my favorite towns in the Finger Lakes !

During the summer months, the market is spread across a park on the Cayuga Lake waterfront with spectacular views to pair with your local finds. The market is set up in the winter months at the Triphammer Marketplace to allow growers a full year to sell. Check the website for changes.

Explore Corning’s Museum of Glass

Corning may be a small city, but it has one of the world’s largest spaces dedicated to the art of contemporary glass making and design! The more museums I’ve visited in my travels, the more they feel the same–a little dark, full of paintings in ornate frames, room after room of an older grand old building once some famous or rich’s person’s home.  But the Museum of Glass in Corning truly blew me away.

This attraction allows you to get up close to the glass-blowing process, watching artists create before your eyes. You can even learn to make glass yourself by signing up for a short class ! Everyone in your group will enjoy the interactive galleries and exhibits teaching you about the history of glassmaking and the secrets behind this stunning art technique.

Ride on a Hot Air Balloon Over Letchworth State Park

Letchworth State Park has some of the most gorgeous waterfalls in the entire country­–there’s a reason it’s nicknamed “the Grand Canyon of the East!” One of the most amazing ways to experience the full beauty of this park is on a hot air balloon ride, soaring above the breathtaking views. Don’t like heights? You can hike and walk instead!

THE Adirondacks REGION

We ADORE the Adirondack Park. Between all the cute towns in the Adirondacks to visit year-round and the host of hidden gems in Upstate New York, you’ll quickly fall in love with this region too.

Lake Gorge Ice Castles and Caves

The Ice Castles and Caves in Lake George are an award-winning attraction every ice and snow lover has to experience. Kids and adults alike love to explore the ice mazes, slides, tunnels, fountains, and more. As the season continues, more is added to the Ice Castles, so you’re never visiting the same place twice.

It’s going to be cold in this frozen world, so dress warmly. You can purchase tickets online for the Ice Castles from the end of January to the end of February. The attraction could extend beyond these months if the weather permits.

Hike the Mountains of the Adirondacks

• Indian Head Hike : You can still catch killer views of the Adirondacks without scaling the high peaks. Indian Head has a rocky overlook with stellar views of the Lower Ausable Lake without putting too much effort into getting there. It’s not an easy breezy hike, but it’s certainly not the most difficult around.
• Cobble Lookout : If you want more of a walk than a hike, the trail to Cobble Head is only 2 ½ miles and great for leisurely stroll. It only takes about an hour, and you’re still rewarded with picturesque views.
• Whiteface Mountain : For hiking enthusiasts looking for a challenge, Whiteface Mountain is a popular area to challenge your skill. Hiking on Whiteface is open all year round, rain or shine, ice or snow. Make sure you’re prepared for this hike and start early to get the most out of your day.

Tour the Ausable Chasm

Ausable Chasm is an exciting canyon in the Adirondacks with a ton of activities to keep you busy. You must pay a fee to enter; even the hiking trails cost a fee, but they’re worth it. Paying for a tour will get you a package of tube rides, a guided tour of the canyon and caves, and more.

We recommend taking the day to explore the Ausable Chasm. It’s the perfect attraction for New Yorkers who want to experience the natural beauty in their own backyard.

Snowshoeing in the Adirondacks

The Adirondacks are one of the best places for an Upstate New York winter getaway if you love to ski. If you’re staying in or near Lake Placid, you have to check out Cascade X-C Ski Center. This place has everything you need, from rentals to apparel to equipment, and 12+ miles of trails! They also have a restaurant and lodging accommodations at the bunkhouse.

Renting an iconic cabin in the mountains is a dream, but it’s not always affordable. Staying at the bunkhouse is a great way to pay discounted rates at the ski center while getting that traditional Upstate New York lodging experience.

Winter Wonderland Lodging Experience

Some of our favorite cute cabin and lodge rentals in Upstate New York are right in the Adirondacks. They range from grand to cozy, but all give you that Great Camp vibe.

• Whiteface Lodge : Staying at the Whiteface Lodge is experiencing Lake Placid at its finest. This luxury hotel and spa are in the heart of the mountains. It’s surrounded by hiking trails to keep you busy all day, allowing you to end with a massage or a 3-course meal. (Nightcaps are available too!)
• Other favorite amenities include a two-lane bowling alley and a small movie theatre. This is a wonderful accommodation for those who want to relax for a few days, with tons of onsite entertainment available.
• Lake Placid Lodge : For a luxury experience that is on the quieter side, try booking a room at the Lake Placid Lodge . There is a gorgeous outdoor space here extending right up to the shores of Lake Placid.
• Mirror Lake: If you love Mirror Lake as much as we do, you must try staying a night or two at Mirror Lake Inn. Their restaurant + bar is hands down one of our favorite places to eat in Lake Placid!

Swimming/Kayaking in the Adirondack Lakes (Like Lake George)

Visiting Lake George is the perfect long weekend getaway from New York City and the ultimate Upstate New York experience. Try renting a cabin by the beach for the ultimate lake vacation in the summer. There are a ton of boat tours in the area and places to rent kayaks and water skis, with lessons available to book.

When it gets hot, try grabbing a cool treat from Lake George Ice Cream in town. This is especially perfect for those spending the day at Million Dollar Beach. If you’re looking for a hiking trail to pass the time, Lake George is the gateway to the Adirondacks and has plenty.

Bonus : In the winter, Lake George offers several outdoor opportunities as well. And even hosts a Winter Festival , which includes an ice castle.

The Hudson Valley

Grab a drink at the cider house.

In the fall, the Hudson Valley turns into apple country. And every apple has the capability to turn into a tart, crisp, delicious cider. While not everyone has tried apple cider, this was certainly a popular drink back in the day. Hudson Valley cider mills are bringing back the hype around cider, and there are dozens of places you can go to sample the goods.

Kettleborough Cider House is one of our favorites and has a spectacular view of Shawangunk Ridge. Twin Star Orchards is another premier spot, often providing live music and food to buy. Some cider houses also double as an orchard or farms where you can pick apples!

Take a Private Helicopter Tour in the Hudson Valley

The fall foliage in the Hudson Valley is breathtaking, especially from a bird’s eye view. You can book a Private Fall Foliage Helicopter Tour of the Hudson Valley that will take you high above the tree tops to soak in all the natural fall colors. This trip leaves right from Manhattan and takes about 30 minutes total, perfect for a quick trip out of New York City.

Persue Art at Dia Beacon Museum

Love contemporary art? Dia Beacon is a hub for contemporary artists set on the shore of the Hudson River.  The museum itself is in an old Nabisco box-printing favorite, with ethereal nature lighting you must see to believe. Art displays range from the 1960s to the present day and feature a number of rotating exhibits.

If you want to ditch your car (or don’t have one), you can take the Metro-North Hudson Line train from Grand Central Station all the way to Beacon. The museum is within walking distance from there and close to tons of cafés, shops, and restaurants on Main Street. Our favorite places here are All You Knead Artisan Bakers and Reserva Wine Bar .

Visit Hudson Valley Wineries

There’s another way to explore the natural beauties of the Hudson Valley without having to hike around­–visiting wineries. Wineries in the Hudson Valley are sprawled across acres of stunning fields, with mountain backgrounds, sometimes with views of lakes and rivers Not to mention, wineries in this area of the state know how to craft a delicious glass of wine!

Robibero Winery near New Paltz has stunning views of the Shawangunk Mountain range–the drive here from New York City is simply gorgeous. Robibero was voted one of the best wineries in the Hudson Valley for handcrafted batches. Other popular spots include Benmarl Winery in the rolling hill of Marlboro with views of the Hudson River and Magnanini Winery, Restaurant & Distillery in Walkill.

Hike Through the Hudson Valley

• Anthony’s Nose : This is a perfect route if you want an easy out-and-back hike you can complete in under 4 hours. Anthony’s Nose boasts fantastic views of the Hudson River, Bear Mountain, and Bear Mountain Bridge. You can take one of two paths up the mountain; my favorite part is the way back!
• Labyrinth and Lemon Squeeze : Set on the Mohonk Preserve, this unique hike and rock scramble is challenging. You have to put in a lot of effort to get the reward of the view, but it’s worth every second. The viewpoint overlooks Shawangunk Ridge and its beautiful surroundings.
• Mount Beacon : Mount Beacon checks all the boxes for me when it comes to a perfect hike. This is not an easy breezy hike by any means, but it’s not a grueling struggle either. The views from the top are breathtaking, and it only takes a half day to finish, so you can enjoy some food in downtown Beacon when you’re done.
• Taconic Mountain : Hiking the Taconic Mountains is challenging, but the reward is worth the effort. This trail is nestled in Dutchess County, where New York meets Connecticut and Massachusetts. When you get to the top, you can see views of the Berkshires, Catskills, and the Hudson River. The trail is rugged and steep. Spikes are recommended if you have them, and bring lots of water.  

Visit NY’s Original Capital: Kingston

You heard right; Kingston used to be New York State’s original capital! It’s a small town along the river, full of charming brick buildings full of shops, and eateries. There is history around every corner, and it’s the perfect town for a weekend getaway from NYC.

Visit the bookstore at Four Corner, the only intersection in the country where all four buildings dating back to the Revolutionary War era. You can visit the farmers’ markets around town or take a boat tour along the Hudson River. Kingston is the perfect distance from the Catskills and the Hudson Valley.

The Stockade District of Kingston has a ton of beautiful buildings and historic features that can serve as a backdrop to a photo shoot. Book an Uptown Kingston photographer for a personal or group photoshoot while you walk and explore.

See Outdoor Sculptures at Storm King Arts Center

Exploring the open-air museum at Storm King Arts Center is out of this world. It beats an old stuffy, dark museum by far and offers visitors access to the country’s largest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures!

Take your time here wandering around the grounds and really taking in works of art like Suspended or the Three-Legged Buddha . These sculptures are so large you’re barely going to notice any of the other visitors while you are transfixed on all the beautiful pieces.  

The Capital Area

Soul fire farm.

Like most other institutional systems in our country, the food system is often a deeply racist mechanism. Committed to uprooting racism and seeding over sovereignty, Soul Fire Farm is an Afro-Indigenous-centered community that goes deeper than simply planting food.

Soul Fire Farm provides amazing training programs for Black and Brown farmers and growers. They also offer workshops for urban youth and more. You can get involved with their mission in so many ways, even if you’re just visiting. Take a tour, volunteer at the farm, or attend a half-day public speaking event to show your support.

Visit Troy, NY

Troy, NY is just north of Albany and is home to the famous Uncle Sam! Once a manufacturing city, Troy has transformed into a cultural and economic hub with an exciting waterfront full of attractions and restaurants. It’s also known as Collar City for supporting twenty-six shirt manufacturing facilities back in 1901!

Check out the Burden Iron Works Museum , which formerly housed the Burden Water Wheel–the most powerful vertical water wheel in history. If you’re hungry, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que is a nationally acclaimed restaurant with award-winning sauces and dishes. Then, take a stroll from the Oakwood Cemetery , with 29 miles of roads and thousands of historic graves surrounding 4 manmade lakes.

Relax in Saratoga Springs at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa

It’s safe to say that the last couple of years has been stressful for us all. There is no better time than now to hit the spa to relax your tired muscles. One of the coolest places to visit in Upstate New York to do this is Saratoga Springs Spa Resort . This gem has run for 85 years and uses the natural underground spring waters for a number of treatments.  

Get a facial, mineral bath, or massage at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa almost every day except on major holidays. A visit here is an affordable method of muscle relaxation that will allow you to get your body back on track.

Tour Albany: The New York State Capital!

While it’s always been important to stay involved in government policies on all levels, it’s become even more crucial in the past few years. Life-altering legislation is being fought out at the state level that could significantly affect how we live our lives. So, in return, let’s get to know New York State government a little better!

You can tour the New York State Capital building in Albany and learn all about its history and the government officials who created our state’s legislation. This has to be one of the coolest things to do in New York’s capital city­, not to mention meaningful.

Learn About the Underground Railroad Education Center

In New York State, two of the most well-known and influential Black abolitionists were Harriet and Stephen Myers. These two were central figures of the Underground Railroad in the state, and their residence is now home to the Underground Railroad Education Center . Take a tour of the home or attend events to learn all about the role everyday citizens played in ensuring a more democratic future for everyone equally.

Born a slave, Stephen Myers became a leading anti-slavery activist in the northeast region after slavery was abolished in 1827. Together, Harriet and Stephen Myers helped people escape slavery for decades out of their homes and worked on a newspaper that espoused abolitionist ideas.  

Central New York Region

Hiking in chittenango falls state park.

Central New York has just as many opportunities to splash in the water as the Finger Lakes and Great Lakes regions.  Just southeast of Syracuse, visitors can stop at Chittenango Falls State Park, where they can have a picnic lunch, take a stroll, or hike to a dazzling waterfall.

We love this small park because it’s easy to walk around and access the waterfalls. It doesn’t take a lot of time or preparation to visit Chittenango Falls State Park, and they’re even a little footbridge for a casual stop.

Shop Around at Syracuse Antiques Exchange

If you love antiques, you have to spend some time at Syracuse Antiques Exchange , featuring four floors full of treasures. This is the largest and longest-running antique store in the state, outside of New York City. You’ll find a huge collection of Victorian and Midcentury furniture, unique lighting fixtures, and tons more to explore.  

Antique shopping may be a fun hobby, but it can quickly become costly if you’re not careful. Syracuse Antiques Exchange offers is a great place to buy your first antique, with various price ranges that would set you too far back.

Spend the Day at Green Lakes State Park

Green Lakes State Park is one of our favorite places for cabin rentals in Upstate New York. There are two lakes in the park, campgrounds with cabins for rent, and a fantastic golf course. The property is covered in towering woods and has miles of hiking trails for summer hikes or snowshoeing adventures in the winter.  

If you’re in the Syracuse area, Green Lakes State Park is super close. Visiting here for the day is a perfect break from the hustle of busy city life and a way to reconnect with yourself in nature. You’ll be relaxed and focused when returning to one of the best cities in Upstate New York.

Check Out Breweries in Syracuse

Craft beer brewing has burst in popularity over the past few years, especially in bustling cities like Syracuse. There are more breweries in the city than you’ll be able to visit in one trip. But at least you can hit a few in between other activities in the area.

Buried Acorn Brewing Company is a popular spot for sour beer and ale lovers. It features some of the best sour brews in the city, and it’s not far from Onondaga Lake. If you’re in the rural part of the Syracuse suburbs, you’ll want to hit Heritage Hill Brewhouse , boasting fantastic views of the downtown area from inside and outside the taproom. Plus, this place has killer food!

Go Mining for Herkimer Diamonds

While Herkimer diamonds are technically real diamonds (they’re quartz crystals), these beautiful treasures are really fun to find! You get to keep everything you find when mining at the Herkimer Diamond Mines set right in Herkimer, NY.

Herkimer Diamonds are stunning, and even more so when you turn them into jewelry at the Artisan Center. Don’t worry if you forget your mining hammer! The admission price will cover the cost of borrowing one from the mines.

Chimney Bluffs Hike along Lake Ontario

Commonly known as ‘The Bluffs’ in communities across Central New York, Chimney Bluffs State Park is a picturesque scene on the shores of Lake Ontario with dramatic spikey “bluffs” along the waterfront. Visiting this park on a summer day was one of our favorite things to do in Oswego when we were students there! The bluffs are so dramatic and look stunning on the shore.

There is a myriad of trails along The Bluffs you can walk along. It’s not uncommon to find students from SUNY Oswego or other local colleges soaking up a little bit of warmth on the sand before the cold hits Central New York.

WESTERN + Niagara Frontier NY Area

Touring chautauqua wineries.

More than 30,000 vineyards are spread across the Lake Erie Grape Belt set along a 50-mile wine trail known as Lake Erie Wine Country in Chautauqua County . These vineyards produce about 65% of the state’s entire grape harvest, shipping off to 35 countries! Wine tasting in this area is a treat; they host year-round events and tours to explore it all! Read more: Best Chautauqua Wineries !

Camp and Hike at Allegheny State Park

Allegheny State Park is an exceptional place for camping, hiking, boating, and all things outdoors just north of the Allegheny National Forest . The Quaker area in the park has two lakes, campgrounds, and a sandy beach for swimming and fishing. You can also launch canoes and kayaks from Friend’s Boat Launch. Read our guide to: Visiting Allegheny State Park !

See the Epic Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is more than just a big waterfall­–it’s a State Park, its own city, and an internationally-known attraction for visitors worldwide! Visiting Niagara Falls is one of the coolest things to do in Upstate New York, with more than enough in the surrounding area to keep you busy.

Daring visitors can take a boat tour under the falls. (Be prepared to get wet!) You can also walk on the rails around the shore, hit the casino, visit an amusement park, and so much more. Bring your passport just in case you want to peruse the Canadian side of the falls for a different experience.  

Hop Around the Museums in Buffalo

There are tons of museums in Buffalo just waiting for you to soak up all the history. Museum hopping is one of the best things to do in New York State. One of our favorites is the Buffalo Museum of Science , where your inner child will spring out immediately when hitting the dinosaur fossil exhibit. Next, you can head to the Buffalo History Museum , where you can explore the development of the Western New York frontier.

Art lovers should certainly not miss the Albright-Knox Art Gallery , featuring exhibits and collections of contemporary art reflecting present culture. For a rare museum, the Museum of disABILITY History is a unique attraction to educate the public on people with disabilities, their treatments, and their contributions to history. Need a few more? Try out the Buffalo Harbor Museum and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House.

Taste Craft Beers at Buffalo Breweries

Micro-breweries in New York State are some of the best in the country, and the industry continues to grow. Buffalo is no exception when it comes to tasty breweries, especially in the last decade.  Some are so exclusive you can’t find them outside Western New York!

Big Ditch Brewing Company is a perfect place to relax with an IPA or ale and eat some snacks. The Thin Man Brewery offers a huge rotating tap list and includes a delicious IPA. Some of our other favorites include Community Beer Works and Resurgence Brewing Company , both worth the stop.  

Hungry? Buffalo has an extremely underrated foodie scene, perfect for exploring after some tasty beers. You’ll love tasting different dishes at the best restaurants in Buffalo, NY .

OUR RELATED UPSTATE NEW YORK POSTS

• 27 Beautiful Lakes in Upstate New York
• 14 Nice Beaches in Upstate New York
• 35 Stunning Waterfalls in New York State
• 27 Fun Winter Getaways in Upstate New York
• 34 Best Restaurants in Upstate New York
• 18 Cute Western New York Towns
• 32 Enjoyable Things to Do in Rochester, New York
• 13 Lovely Resorts in the Catskills for Your Next New York Getaway

Michelle Peterson

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Stay midweek and save this winter! Click here for more info & book today!

• Garnet Hill’s Favorite Winter Day Trips in Upstate NY

Posted in Winter at Garnet Hill

Are you spending a winter weekend with us at Garnet Hill Lodge, and searching for even more to do in the Adirondacks? There are many activities to choose from including skiing and snowboarding, scenic drives, and great shopping nearby. Some of the best places are just an hour or more away, so the question is, where will you go for our suggested winter day trips in Upstate NY?

Perhaps, your day is less adventurous and more focused on shopping and dining. Or, maybe you want to spend a full day on the snowy mountain slopes, which is a fantastic choice during an Adirondack winter.

Check out our recommended winter day trip ideas below, and plan your stay at Garnet Hill!

Hit the Slopes at Gore Mountain

Fifteen minutes away from Garnet Hill is none other than Gore Mountain . If you are looking for some snowy slopes to hit, you can do this by either snowboarding or skiing at Gore.

For those that aren’t interested in hitting the slopes, there is cross-country skiing and snowshoeing offered at their Nordic Center. This will fuel your sense of adventure for the day as you take in all that winter has to offer. Afterwards, come back to the rustic cozy atmosphere at Garnet Hill to warm up!

Cheers to Winter with Food & Drinks On-Site or in North Creek

At Garnet Hill Lodge, we offer two on-site dining options to fulfill your hunger. Our Log House Restaurant has an extensive menu with culinary delights such as Honey Grilled Chicken and Pan-Seared Halibut. Our second dining option is The Bobcat Bar & Grill. If you are looking for warmth after a long day of skiing or snowshoeing, this is the place. Stop in for one of our signature sandwiches to refuel your appetite after a long day outside.

For more dining options close by, North Creek has plenty to offer. Located near Gore Mountain, Becks Tavern has German-inspired cuisine and a full bar. This could make for the perfect stop after a day on the slopes.

For a more romantic evening, head over to barVino which serves fantastic wine and a variety of options on their food menu. Some of their menu items include a Burrat Stuffed Ravioli, Chicken Picatta, and Seared Tuna.

Or, opt for an evening that is more easy going and laid back at Basil & Wick’s . The menu was curated by their award-winning chef, and they have plenty of food to pick from. They have options for meat lovers, pescatarians, vegetarians, and vegans too.

Discover Winter Fun in Indian Lake

Located a little over twenty minutes from Garnet Hill is Indian Lake, an Adirondack community featuring winter activities like snowmobiling, ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.

Snowmobiling does not require a permit for Indian Lake, allowing for a great adventure. If you visit with family, ice skating might be a better option. The town of Indian Lake has their own ice skating rink on Ski Hut Rd. It is open Monday, Tuesday, & Friday from 6 PM to 9 PM.

If you enjoy snowshoeing, you may find tracks of wild animals in the snow. One of these snowshoeing destinations is Fern Park located in Inlet. It holds over 12 miles of trails to explore on your snowshoes. That is a lot of time spent exploring!

For the cross-country skiers, it would be worthwhile to strap on your skis at the Northville-Placid Trail. This will offer plenty of trail to explore as you glide through the forest. It is a favorite of many during the winter time as the wilderness is painted in snow allowing for great solitude.

If you are in Indian Lake for the morning, stop into Mountain View Adventures Cafe for a cup of joe. They are open on Fridays and Saturdays from 8 AM to 2 PM. Their cafe offers gifts too if you want to get a souvenir for yourself or someone else.

Experience a Scenic Drive Through the Region

Winter offers some of the best scenery in the Adirondack Mountains, especially after a fresh blanket of snow. You will be mesmerized as the trees are painted white that lead up to a view of the mountains.

One of the greatest drives to take in the Adirondacks is right outside our door on Route 28. This extensive route will bring you to beautiful sights such as Blue Mountain Lake.

During this drive, there are opportunities to get outside too. If you want to try a winter hike, head over to Castle Rock. It is a short hike that overlooks Blue Mountain Lake in all of its beauty.

For a bit tougher of a hike, head to the Blue Mountain Lake Fire Tower to climb Blue Mountain. Although it is more challenging, the reward is well worth it. The views from the fire tower showcase Blue Mountain Lake and some surrounding high peaks in the distance.

Note: Be cautious of heavy winds and icy conditions if you plan to climb the fire tower during winter.

Explore & Shop in Historic Lake Placid

A longer drive from Garnet Hill, Lake Placid is located an hour and a half away. It is worth the trip as there are many things to do upon your arrival. You can start by doing some ice skating on the Olympic Speed Skating Oval in the heart of the village. Or, step inside the nearby Lake Placid Olympic Museum and dive into the history of winter sports.

Afterwards, enjoy a cafe or restaurant in the community. These restaurants offer different cuisines such as Italian fare at Jimmy’s 21 , smoked meats at Smoke Signals , or American fare at Players Sports Bar .

If you’d like to go shopping, there are several stores to visit in Lake Placid. To find literature or learn about local history, check out The Bookstore Plus . For reliving historic moments in hockey, pick up some gear from the USA Spirit Shop . If you’d like some cozy apparel, step inside Bear Essentials, which has many products to choose from.

Spend a Day Dreaming in Lake George

Lake George is a fantastic stop to make if you have a winter bucket list for activities. One of their must-see attractions this season is known as Lake George Winter’s Dream . Located at the Fort William Henry Historic Fortress, this attraction is garnering a lot of attention. Known for its vivid lights, unique sounds, and interactivity…it will keep you mesmerized for forty to sixty minutes.

If you are visiting Garnet Hill in February, look into the Lake George Winter Carnival . Taking place on February 3-4 and following weekends, there are many activities that will occur. There will be a hot chocolate bar, an annual parade, and karaoke. This is something you won’t want to miss if you are in the area.

Lake George has some great dining options too if you want to grab food during your visit. One of their restaurants is the 163 Taproom which offers many local brews and an extensive food menu. Some of these culinary delights include a smokehouse burger, signature sandwiches, and twin shrimp tacos.

Where Will You Go?

Garnet Hill is in close proximity to all of these great adventures that you can take on in the Adirondacks. There is an abundance of winter day trips in Upstate NY and most are right outside our doors. With such great choices, we suppose the question shouldn’t be where will you go…but when?

Book your room at Garnet Hill >>

Recent Posts

• Meet Nicholas Keiper: Our New Chef at the Log House Restaurant in North River
• An Epic Micro Wedding Venue in Upstate NY: Garnet Hill Lodge
• The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in the Adirondacks
• Why Garnet Hill Lodge is a Top Spot for Romantic Winter Getaways in Upstate NY
• Adirondack Mountain and Stream Guides
• Adirondack Vacation Packages
• Garnet Hill Lodge in the Press
• Jobs at Garnet Hill Lodge
• Newsletters
• Fall at Garnet Hill
• Spring at Garnet Hill
• Summer at Garnet Hill
• Winter at Garnet Hill
• During your Stay
• Events at the Log House Restaurant

Garnet Hill Lodge

There are so many wonderful things to do in Upstate New York throughout winter.  It’s truly a magical season to visit the Adirondacks, with breathtaking beauty awaiting at every turn in these snow-covered landscapes. Our Upstate New York hotel is well-situated for endless adventures in the outdoors, but we make it just as easy for you to spend your weekend curled up in front of the fireplace in our guest rooms.

Our hotel is located a short drive from the Lake George area and ideally situated to enjoy all of the best things to do in Upstate New York this winter. The hotel itself offers 18 upscale guest rooms for you to choose from, with an onsite restaurant for convenient and delicious dinners and private access to nature trails. It will feel like you have an exclusive retreat in nature for the weekend.

Make the most of your getaways to Upstate New York and book a room at Friends Lake Inn today !

10 Amazing Things to do in Upstate New York This Winter

We’re in the midst of a beautiful fall in the Adirondacks, but once the snow begins to fall this winter, the amount of things to do in Upstate New York goes way up! The mountains offer visitors endless possibilities for adventure if you’re up for it, and our cozy hotel provides plenty of relaxation if you’d rather do that.

Whatever it is you want to do on your getaway, you’ll find it here! Remember to pack your boots, hat, gloves, and layers! Here are nine fun wintertime things to do in Upstate New York this winter!

• One of the most popular things to do in Upstate New York during the winter is to go skiing, and there are several great places to do just that in the Adirondacks.  The closest ski resort is Gore Mountain , but other nearby locations include West Mountain  and Oak Mountain .
• It’s also fun to get out in the wilderness and explore – and you can do precisely that on a snowmobile tour with C+C Adirondack Snowmobiling Tours . They have a range of options suitable for all levels of adventure and experience.
• If something a bit more laidback is more your style, consider spending an afternoon snowshoeing or cross country skiing through the pristine forests up here in Upstate New York.  Navigating your way through the quiet mountain forest is one of the most peaceful things to do in Upstate New York this winter. In addition to the private trails at Friends Lake Inn, snowshoeing is available at Oak Mountain , Dynamite Hill Recreation Center and Nature Trail , and Crandall Park , among other places.
• How about some old-fashioned ice skating together? Crandall Park has a pond that freezes over every winter and offers a picturesque place to enjoy this quintessential winter activity. You can also enjoy ice skating at Dynamite Hill Recreation Area , Lake George, and Gurney Lane Recreation Area .
• One of the most romantic of all the things to do in Upstate New York this winter is to go on an old-fashioned sleigh ride! Our friends at Circle B Ranch offer group and private rides through a beautiful winter wonderland.
• If you’re looking for unusual things to do in Upstate New York this winter, we recommend trying your hand at dog sledding! Head over to Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours or Mike Arnold Sled Rides for a winter adventure you won’t soon forget.

The Best Upstate New York Getaway

If this list of things to do in Upstate New York this winter has you feeling tired already, don’t worry.  We have a remedy for that!  Relax and unwind to your heart’s content in our cozy, comfortable, and upscale guest rooms at Friends Lake Inn. We offer 18 gorgeous and elegantly appointed guest rooms to choose from, each of which is unique and reflective of the rustic beauty of the surrounding area.

If you are ready for the ultimate place to relax and rejuvenate this winter, then it’s time to book your room at our Upstate New York hotel today ! We won’t judge if you want to hole up in your guest room, read a book, or watch Netflix all weekend.  We encourage it!  This kind of downtown, after all, is what people come to Upstate New York for!

View Our Rooms

Make A Reservation

Plan A Wedding

Recent posts, ready to book your getaway, highly rated.

Destination Weddings

Our Email Newsletter

Get the latest news from the Adirondacks Mountains and Friends Lake Inn.

Friends Lake Inn

• 518-494-4751 - Reservations
• 518-504-3795 - Restaurant
• [email protected]
• 963 Friends Lake Rd, Chestertown, NY 12817
• 518-494-4751
• 963 Friends Lake Rd Chestertown, NY 12817

Guest Rooms

Receive emails and newsletters to keep in touch with I LOVE NY.

• Accessibility
• Adirondack Attractions
• Spotlight: Adirondacks
• Spotlight: Lake George
• Family Guide
• Lake Placid City Guide
• Central NY Attractions
• Spotlight: Cooperstown
• Binghamton City Guide
• Greater Niagara Attractions
• Spotlight: Buffalo & Niagara Falls
• Buffalo City Guide
• New York City Attractions
• Capital Saratoga Attractions
• Spotlight: Albany
• Albany City Guide
• Chautauqua-Allegheny Attractions
• Spotlight: Jamestown and Chautauqua-Allegheny
• Hudson Valley Attractions
• Spotlight: New Paltz
• Spotlight: Hudson Valley
• Thousand Islands Attractions
• Catskills Attractions
• Spotlight: The Catskills
• Finger Lakes Attractions
• Spotlight: Rochester
• Spotlight: Syracuse
• Spotlight: Finger Lakes
• Syracuse City Guide
• Rochester City Guide
• Long Island Attractions
• Spotlight: Long Island
• New York Blooms Report
• Spring Flower Shows & Festivals
• Maple Sugaring
• Land Adventures
• Whitewater Rafting & Tubing
• Canoeing and Kayaking
• Excursions by Boat
• Motorcoach Tours
• Motorcycling in New York
• Scenic Byways
• Scenic Train Rides
• Weekend Getaways
• Black History & Culture
• History Museums
• Underground Railroad
• Path Through History Weekend
• Architecture and Design
• Art Museums
• Covered Bridges
• Drive-In Movies
• People and Cultures
• Performing Arts
• Buffalo Wings
• Cideries and Distilleries
• New York Pizza
• Restaurants
• Amusement Parks
• Animals & Zoos
• Indoor Water Parks
• Outdoor Water Parks
• Kids' Museums
• Special Events
• Wedding Guide
• LGBTQ Resources
• Shop LGBTQ New York
• New York State Recipes
• Affordable Getaways
• Watchable Wildlife
• Natural Wonders
• Nature Centers
• State and National Parks
• Caverns and Mines
• Arenas & Stadiums
• Auto Racetracks
• Horse Racetracks
• Arts and Crafts
• Farmers Markets
• Flea Markets
• Malls and Outlets
• Senior Travel
• Romantic Getaways
• B&B / Inns / Farm Stays
• Dude Ranches
• Cabins / Cottages
• Hotels / Motels / Resorts
• Festivals & Annual Events
• Food & Drink
• Film Festivals
• Arts & Culture
• Expos / Shows & Sales
• Sports & Gaming
• Coronavirus Resources for Travelers
• Amtrak Discount
• Travel around New York State from NYC
• Trip Planner
• New York State Welcome Centers
• Travel Guides
• Offers & Deals
• I LOVE NY Mobile App

23 Things to Do This Winter in New York State

Credit:  @steveaaronphoto on instagram.

Winter is almost here and it's time to start planning your next adventure in New York State! Will you opt to head outdoors for snow-related activities like skiing the greatest vertical east of the Rockies or ziplining over snow-covered pines? For less extreme activities, explore world-famous museums, or get into the holiday spirit with a brilliant light show. Whatever you choose, take advantage of the winter wonderlands and check out these must-do winter activities throughout New York State! 

Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines . Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available.

1. Hit the Slopes on a Ski Getaway (Various Regions)

With the most ski resorts of any other state in the nation, world-class skiing is always close by in New York. The scenic Adirondacks region is home to Gore Mountain , which offers more skiable acreage than anywhere else in the state, and Whiteface Mountain , a 1980 Winter Olympics site with the greatest vertical drop east of the Rocky Mountains. Bristol Mountain  (pictured) in the Finger Lakes takes you to new heights of excitement, beauty, and challenge, thanks to its 1,200 foot vertical rise. Never been on the slopes? No problem. Resorts from Chautauqua-Allegheny’s Holiday Valley to Greek Peak in the Finger Lakes to Hudson Valley’s Catamount Mountain will help you get your ski legs with lessons to make you comfortable going downhill. There’s plenty of time to relax, play, and dine after skiing at the luxury spas, cozy lodges, and fine restaurants that you’ll find both at the resorts as well as neighboring villages and towns.

2. Go for the Gold in Lake Placid (Adirondacks)

Credit: @my_focal_points on instagram.

There's "snow" better place than Lake Placid! Nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks, this winter playground boasts a charming walkable downtown featuring ample shopping and a rich culinary scene. A two-time host of the Winter Olympic Games—which included the dramatic 1980 U.S. hockey victory over the Soviet Union, known as “The Miracle on Ice”—this alpine village remains a magnet for world-class athletes today. Catch the inaugural Adirondack Winter Invitational as some of the best men’s college hockey players in the nation meet for two days of action in the historic 1980 Herb Brooks Arena (December 29-30). February brings the Ski Jumping World Cup , when you can see elite ski jumpers soar at the Olympic Jumping Complex (pictured). Explore Lake Placid's rich winter sports history all season long at the  Olympic Center and Museum  and legacy sites including  Whiteface Mountain , the Oval, Mt. Van Hoevenberg , and more. 

3. Get Out on the Ice (Various Regions)

Find hours of outdoor fun at the Ice at Canalside in Buffalo, where you can lace up your skates, ride a unique  ice bike  (pictured), and try out the ice bumper cars before getting cozy in a heated igloo . From December through March, the reflecting pools outside the grand New York State Capitol building in Empire State Plaza  transform into an ice skating rink , welcoming thousands of visitors every year to enjoy free skating, a full-service snack bar, and special events. New York City is home to some of the most classic and iconic skating rinks at Rockefeller Center , Bryant Park , and Wollman Rink . Bear Mountain State Park , just 45 miles north of Manhattan, has a beautiful outdoor rink nestled against Bear Mountain with views of the Hudson River. Have some winter fun in the snowiest city in America at the Clinton Square Ice Rink , which lies in the heart of downtown Syracuse amid some of the city’s oldest and most beautiful buildings.

4. Pamper Yourself! (Various Regions)

Treat yourself to a little rest and relaxation on a blissful spa day or getaway . Mirbeau Inn & Spa  in the Finger Lakes offers the charm and comforts of a French manor house with picturesque grounds, rooms with cozy fireplaces and oversized soaking tubs, and centerpiece spa with a hot spa pool, sauna, steam room, and full-service treatment menu. Bask in timeless luxuries like mineral baths, facials, and body scrubs at the historic Roosevelt Baths and Spa  in the Capital-Saratoga region and feel your worries melt away at the Hudson Valley's all-inclusive Victorian castle resort  Mohonk Mountain House . 

5. Cozy Up to the Fire (Various Regions)

If your idea of a perfect winter day involves basking in the warm orange glow of a fire with a book in hand or glass of wine, then you’re in luck. Thaw out in a room complete with a stone fireplace at the rustically elegant Lake Placid Lodge or warm up over a cocktail while listening to the crackling flames at the cozy Library Bar at The Inn at Erlowest . Keep the chill away by the huge fireplace inside the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel (pictured) or venture outdoors where the riverside patio is punctuated with roaring fire pits. Raise a toast while you get toasty at Albany Pump Station , home of C.H. Evans Brewing, which features a massive fireplace that stretches all the way to the ceiling or gather ‘round the blazing fire pits on the patio at Woodstock’s Tinker Street Tavern .

6. Discover Frozen Waterfalls (Various Regions)

Credit: @teenytreks on instagram.

New York's waterfalls are lovely any time of year, but there's something magical about seeing these rushing cascades frozen over in winter. Two of the state's most famed attractions,  Niagara Falls  and  Letchworth State Park , feature some of the most grandiose and inspiring frozen waterfalls anywhere. Scope out the surreal beauty of these icy wonders at  High Falls , a 95-foot-tall waterfall in downtown Rochester, and  Taughannock Falls State Park , where an overlook remains open in winter when trails to the base are closed.  The frosty fountains at the  New York Botanical Garden  and in  Central Park  in New York City are also a sight to see!

7. Go Snowmobiling Along Powdery Trails (Various Regions)

Credit: @lprignon on instagram.

Discover glittering wintry landscapes on a snowmobile as you glide along the more than 8,000 miles of snowmobile corridor trails that crisscross New York State. Head to the Adirondacks’ Tug Hill area (pictured) for hundreds of miles of heavily forested trails, as well as trailside restaurants and hotels that cater to the winter snowmobiling community. Letchworth State Park has more than 25 miles of trails offering riders spectacular views of the gorge and waterfalls at this marvel known as the “Grand Canyon of the East.” Discover the endless miles of snowmobiling this winter in New York State.

8. Go Snow Tubing or Tobogganing (Various Regions)

Credit: @tourchautauqua on instagram.

Looking for another way to experience the rush of hurtling downhill in winter? Just dress in your warmest and embark on an epic snow tubing adventure in New York State. Peek N Peak Resort in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region boasts a seven-lane tubing hill plus a “Magic Carpet” conveyor lift that takes you and your tube back uphill for another thrilling slide down. After dusk, enjoy the ride during Lunar Lights Tubing (pictured), complete with a mesmerizing light show and live DJ. You can slide down a mountain in a giant inflated tube all across the state from Titus Mountain in the Adirondacks to Plattekill Mountain in the Catskills. Also try tobogganing in  Chestnut Ridge Park , where the chutes have been operating since the 1930s from atop an impressive sledding hill, and in  Lake Placid , where riders are sent down an ice-covered chute onto frozen Mirror Lake.  

9. Experience Central Park in Winter (NYC)

Credit: @throughkelseyslens on instagram.

New York City’s iconic Central Park is beautiful in every season, with winter being no exception. Snowshoe the wide-open meadows, see landmarks from Bethesda Foundation to Belvedere Castle sparkle in a dusting of snow, feed the penguins at the zoo, go ice skating at Wollman Rink, or admire the falling flakes from Bethesda Terrace Arcade while standing in the only place in the world that bears a Minton tile ceiling. Enjoy the snow-blanketed park from above with a meal at The Met Dining Room, the restaurant at Bergdorf Goodman , and Asiate — all of which overlook the park providing sweeping views of the wintry landscape. Don’t miss the annual Winter Jam in February to enjoy ice carving, sledding, curling, ice bowling and more in this urban winter wonderland.

10. Wander Through a Glowing Wonderland (Various Regions)

Credit:  @rickgodinproductions on instagram.

Your days are sure to be merry and bright thanks to dazzling light shows that transform notable attractions across New York State into twinkling dreamscapes. Drive through the Magic of Lights at Long Island’s iconic Jones Beach , find your groove at Peace, Love, and Lights at the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts , enter an enchanted forest at Wild Center Wild Lights  (pictured), and more. Find more ways to light up your winter with our blog on 13 Awe-Inspiring Light Festivals in New York State .

11. Visit a Botanical Garden (Various Regions)

Credit: @koolkatsummer on instagram.

Escape the gripping cold and step into a warm tropical paradise at one of New York State’s beautiful botanical gardens. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens (pictured) is full of exotic horticulture treasures from around the world. In winter, the magic of the holiday season comes to life at its Poinsettia Exhibit (through January 1) which is even more dazzling after dark as the floral display is bathed in a soft, colorful glow. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s Aquatic House is often warm and sunny, making it an inviting respite on a cold winter day. With colorful blooming orchids and tropical plants cascading from hanging pots and floating on garden pools, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another world. New York Botanical Gardens also has palm trees, cacti, and other warm-weather plants from around the globe on display at the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

12. Embark on a Wintry Wine Tasting Tour (Various Regions)

Credit: @casalargawinery on instagram.

Think a visit to Long Island’s wine country is just a summertime thing? Think again. Experience the peaceful serenity of the North Fork amid the snow-covered vineyards at One Woman Wines and Vineyards , Suhru Wines , Coffee Pot Cellars , Sparkling Pointe , and Kontokosta , which is perched atop sweeping bluffs overlooking the Long Island Sound. Taste the fruits of the frost in  Lake Erie Wine Country  in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, home to several vineyards specializing in ice wine including  21 Brix Winery ,  Leonard Oakes Estate Winery , and other wineries along the Niagara Wine Trail . You'll also find this refreshing and sweet dessert wine made from grapes frozen on the vine at wineries across the Finger Lakes, including Casa Larga  (pictured).

13. Experience a Winter Carnival or Festival (Various Regions)

It’s never too late to start a new family tradition that you can enjoy together every year. One of the crowning events of the season is a 10-day extravaganza in the Adirondacks, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival (pictured). Slated for February 2-11, this annual fete features fun for the whole family with a life-sized ice palace, traditional fry pan toss contest, and nightly entertainment at venues throughout town. Syracuse Winterfest is a party where all ages are invited. Enjoy dozens of indoor and outdoor events, cook-offs and tastings, as well as dazzling fireworks. The 11 days of fun kick off on February 15. Discover a land of arctic magic and wonder with a large ice skating rink, polar pub ice bar, and whimsical sculptures crafted from snow and ice at Lake George’s Winter Realms (November 24-March 2024) and explore a rich world of wintry lights, music, sounds, videos, and interactive moments at Winter's Dream  (starting December 8). For the first time ever, Coney Island's Luna Park is extending the summer fun into winter with Frost Fest (November 18-January 7) featuring a skating rink, rides, holiday lights and shopping, festive food, and photos with Santa.

14. Pretend It’s Summer at an Indoor Waterpark (Various Regions)

Credit: the kartrite resort & indoor waterpark.

Is the snow and cold getting old? How does a perfect 84-degree day sound? Get a taste of summer this winter at New York State’s indoor waterparks . The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark (pictured) provides a tropical escape in the heart of winter in the foothills of the Catskill mountains. Fun for all ages, New York’s largest indoor waterpark features five thrilling water rides for older kids and adults, a Jungle-themed lazy river, and plenty of attractions for little ones. The Kartrite Resort is also home to other indoor activities, such as the Playopolis Arcade, Van Winkle's bowling alley, the Scrapeskyer climbing wall, 3D gaming experiences, and more! Find 500 feet of waterslides and a wild wave pool at Cascades at Greek Peak Mountain Resort in the Finger Lakes and take a leisurely float along the lazy river at Lake George’s Six Flags Great Escape Lodge .

15. Mush Across the Ice and Snow on a Dogsled (Adirondacks) 

Dogsledding is one of the most unique winter activities available in New York State. Feel like you’re soaring across the world when a team of specially-trained sled dogs carries you across the surface of a frozen lake or through snow-covered forested paths. Thunder Mountain Dog Sled Tours in the Adirondacks offer rides across the frozen surface of Mirror Lake in downtown Lake Placid. Mike Arnold Dog Sled Rides also races across Mirror Lake in the cold, crisp air of Lake Placid.

16. Après-Ski—Even if You Don’t Ski—at These Cozy Locations (Various Regions)

Luckily, there’s no prerequisite to participate in après-ski festivities. You don’t need to spend the day waiting in lift lines or hurling yourself down a steep slope in order to enjoy the atmosphere that prevails as the sun sets in ski towns across New York State. This winter, head to Becks Tavern (pictured) next to Gore Mountain in the Adirondacks for German-inspired fare. Holiday Valley Resort in Chautauqua-Allegheny, has a lively après scene. Zoom along a mountain coaster, relax at the spa, or unwind with a local craft beer at the nearby Ellicottville Brewing Company . Hunter Mountain in the Catskills has a reputation for being a hot spot for winter fun, and the Jagerberg Beer Hall and Alpine Tavern at the base of the ski resort is a favorite après-ski spot for locals and visitors.

17. Fly Over the Landscape in a Snow Kite (Long Island)

Credit: @nykitecenter on instagram.

Snowkiting is winter’s most exciting adventure sport you may not have heard of yet. Use the power of the wind to fly across snow-covered fields. NY Kite Center on Long Island offers intro classes for $299.99 that covers learning how to read the wind and fly, how to rig your kit, and stay safe. All gear is included in the lesson. Speaking of learning how to fly, the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City is a must-visit. Discover the history of aviation and space flight in the place where so many airfields once stood that it became known as the “cradle of aviation.” See over 75 air and spacecraft, including a Blue Angels aircraft, hot air balloons, the 13th Lunar Module, and an extensive Apollo artifact collection featuring spacecraft and more.

18. Enjoy a Local Craft Beer (Various Regions)

Credit: @westkillbrewing on instagram.

Craft brewing is a proud tradition with a long-standing history in New York State. Renowned for its creative blends of seasonal fruits and local ingredients, you'll find unique flavors around every corner. Visit Brewery Ommegang  in Central New York for Belgian-inspired specialty and seasonal ales, such as “Everything Nice,” a strong blonde ale with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and other wintry spices. At The Lake Placid Pub & Brewery , you'll find its flagship microbrew coined the "Ubu Ale", adorably named after a regular customer's chocolate labrador. For a brew with a view, head to West Kill Brewing  (pictured) where every beer is made using pure mountain well water. For more amazing brewery experiences in New York State, see our guide here .

19. Go Ice Fishing on a Lake  (Various Regions)

As Lake Ontario freezes it becomes an ice fishing village with fishing huts dotting the horizon. Other shanties, as they're called, pop up throughout the Finger Lakes, such as on Skaneateles Lake (pictured). Ice fishing season opens in December, and anglers stake their patch of ice to fish for panfish, perch, and pike. If you have always wanted to go ice fishing but didn’t know where to start, book a trip with an ice fishing guide to walk you through the setup, tricks, and techniques you’ll need to know, as well as provide you with all the gear you need. You’ll still need to get a fishing permit yourself, however.

20. Explore secrets of ancient Egypt, Native American traditions, and more at New York's museums (Various Regions)

Dive into the rich culture and history, as well as interactive fun, offered at museums across New York State . From Old World masters found on museum walls in the Adirondacks to a 3,000-year-old mummy hiding out in the Capital Region, there are exciting exhibits to see this winter. Visit the Albany Institute of History and Art's Ancient Egypt exhibit to see artifacts including the mummy of Ankhefenmut, a priest and sculptor from the Ptolemaic Period or head to the First Peoples exhibit at the New York State Museum  to see a life-size reconstructed longhouse and contemporary Native American art. At the Hyde Collection Art Museum and Historic House (pictured) in the Adirondacks, the small-but-impressive permanent collection includes a Picasso, a Rubens, and a Rembrandt. 

21. Go Cross-Country Skiing or Snowshoeing (Various Regions)

Credit: @brittbritt499 on instagram.

There are nearly 200 well-maintained places to go cross-country skiing in New York State. From Allegany State Park in Chautauqua-Allegheny to The Fields Sculpture Park at Omi in the Hudson Valley, discover the thrilling joy of gliding over snow-covered fields on Nordic skis. If you’ve never been cross-country skiing before, sign up for a lesson! At Lake Placid’s Olympic Sports Complex , you can learn how to pace your skiing and chat with coaches who likely taught or skied with local Olympic biathletes. For a real New York State winter adventure, head to Central New York’s Osceola Tug Hill X-C Ski/Mtn Biking Center to experience over 20 miles of groomed trails. The Tug Hill State Forest offers ample cross-country skiing trails, as well as waterfall features.

Strap on your snowshoes to explore winter wonderlands not accessible by ski or snowmobile. Saratoga Spa State Park is a time of rare beauty in winter when the National Historic Landmark opens for snowshoe and cross-country skiing explorations on 12 miles of trails. Find equipment rentals at the Park Office and experience this summer destination when winter’s snow transforms the landscape.

22. Coast, Climb or Zip Wintry Landscapes (Various Regions)

Credit: @basilt on instagram .

Whether you’re looking for an ice climbing guide, or for new walls to conquer, there are plenty of destinations across New York State that offer climbing for all abilities. Book a guide and hit the ‘Gunks (pictured) for a winter climbing 101 course and master the basics. If scaling icy rocks outside doesn't sound appealing, head to Niagara Climbing Center or the Hudson Valley’s BC’s Climbing Gym for indoor rock climbing. Feel the need for speed? At Holiday Valley , you can ski or snowboard, sure, but for a unique experience, go for a ride on the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster ! This rollercoaster-like ride through the woods is breathtaking in winter, first heading up the hill, then zigging and zagging down it on the rails, controlling the speed as you go. Find more high-speed thrills at  Greek Peak Mountain Resort , which runs a two-line ziplining tour in the winter, which takes about two hours, for $60 per person.

23.  Hit the Shops (Various Regions)

When the weather outside is frightful or you're in the mood for some retail therapy, New York State has everything you need to satisfy your shopping needs. New York City is the home to some of the world's most famous shopping destinations, such as  Saks Fifth Avenue  and  Macy's Herald Square . Syracuse boasts the nation's sixth largest shopping center,  Destiny USA , while the  Hudson Valley  is home to a bevy of treasure-filled antique shops and more than 200 outlet shops at  Woodbury Commons . From Clayton to Northport, take your next shopping trip along a picture-perfect main street  and discover everything from classic souvenirs to high-end clothes to thoughtful keepsakes and handmade items at charming and unique shops .

Share New York State adventures with us on  TikTok ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  with #ILoveNY and #iSpyNY, and tag us on  Facebook !

Author: I LOVE NY Staff

• Adirondacks (111)
• Arts & Culture (27)
• Capital-Saratoga (99)
• Catskills (102)
• Central New York (95)
• Chautauqua-Allegheny (89)
• Events (27)
• Family (36)
• Finger Lakes (120)
• Food & Drink (26)
• Greater Niagara (104)
• History (14)
• Holidays (14)
• Hudson Valley (122)
• Itineraries (36)
• Long Island (108)
• New York City (98)
• Outdoors (26)
• Romantic Getaways (17)
• Shopping (9)
• Thousand Island-Seaway (77)
• Winter (20)
• February (19)
• January (23)
• December (19)
• November (30)
• October (26)
• September (13)
• August (18)
• February (6)
• January (12)
• December (4)
• November (2)
• October (3)
• September (7)
• February (3)
• January (1)
• November (1)
• October (1)
• September (1)
• February (2)
• January (3)
• December (1)
• November (7)
• October (4)
• February (5)
• January (4)
• December (2)
• September (3)
• February (1)
• January (2)
• November (5)
• Aliza Kibel and Marta Zielinska (1)
• Anna Pakman (18)
• Anna Pakman and Ross Levi (1)
• Cory Lee (1)
• Danielle Lee (8)
• David Contreras Turley (3)
• David Contreras Turley and Ross D. Levi (1)
• Don Wildman (6)
• Emma Frisbie (37)
• Eric Scheffel (18)
• Erin Faherty (18)
• Ethan LaCroix (2)
• Gavin Landry (1)
• I LOVE NY Staff (158)
• Karen Kirchofer (3)
• Katherine Dunn (13)
• Katherine Dunn and Ross Levi (1)
• Lisa Soto (3)
• Mark Hamilton (1)
• Marta Zielinska (19)
• Marta Zielinska and Rachel Dymond (2)
• Maya Yegorova (1)
• Megan Dority (1)
• Megan Rooney (1)
• Michele DeBella (7)
• Michele Herrmann (13)
• New York Kitchen (16)
• Phoebe Baker (5)
• Rachel Dymond (30)
• Rachel Dymond and Emma Frisbie (1)
• Richard Martin (17)
• Ross D. Levi (12)
• Ross D. Levi and Emma Frisbie (1)
• Ross D. Levi and Richard Martin (1)

Cookies are used for measurement, ads, and optimization. By continuing to use our site you agree to our  privacy policy .

22 Fun Things To Do In The Catskills In Winter

By Jessie Festa & Charlotte Dow. This post on Catskills travel contains affiliate links to trusted partners!

Looking for things to do in the Catskills in winter?

Then you’re in the right place!

The Catskills consistently tops lists of great places to go in Upstate NY in winter, thanks to its gorgeous setting and diversity of activities.

Whether you’re looking for awesome ski resorts or just want to cozy up by the fire in a secluded cabin, you’ll find tons of great winter activities in the Catskills to keep you entertained.

The Catskills are also located just a few hours from New York City, making the region the perfect getaway for city dwellers and visitors alike. 

Not sure where to start in planning your Catskills winter trip? We’re here to help!

We’ve compiled a list of our favorite Catskills NY winter activities to help you craft the perfect itinerary. Read on to learn about all the fun things to do in Upstate NY in winter! 

💡 Quick Tips For Planning A Catskills Winter Trip: 🚗 Renting A Car: Discover Cars  can help you save up to 70% using their comparison tool 🧤 Stay Warm: It can get very cold in the Catskills during winter, so make sure to pack some essentials to keep you warm. A few recommendations include rechargeable hand warmers , Smartwool socks , and thermal underwear . 🥾 Catskills Hiking: Winter hiking is a popular Catskills activity, so make sure to download the AllTrails app to have trail guides, maps, photos, and reviews right at your fingertips. You can also sign up for a free trial of AllTrails+ to download offline maps, get alerts for wrong turns, find trails by distance from you, and more! 💪 Safety: Additonally, whether you’re  hiking solo  or in a group, it’s smart to keep safety in mind. One piece of advice is to carry a  She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which features a 130db alarm and flashing strobe light designed to deter an attack. I also love the Garmin inReach Mini , a compact satellite communicator with SOS capabilities that can truly save your life in an emergency. 🏨  Accommodation: This map  can help you pinpoint top-rated and budget-friendly accommodation in the Catskills. It’s currently set to the fun hippie town of Woodstock, but you can easily change it to your intended Catskills destination: 🏥 Travel Insurance: SafetyWing 📞 Staying Connected: Airalo eSIM

Table of Contents

What Are The Catskills?

The Catskills is the nickname for the Catskill Mountains. It’s also the name of the region the mountains reside in, as is a popular place to enjoy outdoor adventure, retreats and resorts, the arts, and the slower pace of small towns and remote mountain destinations.

Some popular Catskills destinations include Catskill, Phoenicia, Woodstock, Bethel, Kingston, Roscoe, Windham, and New Paltz, to name a few.

Where Are The Catskills?

The Catskills are located in southeastern New York State , between Albany and New York City .

How To Get To The Catskills

The Catskills are about a 3 hours from NYC by car, which is the best way to get to — and around — the Catskills.

If you need to rent a car, it’s recommended to check out Discover Cars to quickly compare your rental options.

Things To Do In The Catskills In Winter

On that note, let’s dive into our list of things to do in Catskills NY in the winter. Sure, visiting New York in the winter can get chilly, but the following experiences help you either stay warm or embrace the season!

1. Enjoy one of the Catskills resorts

The Catskill Mountains are well-known for their resorts, offering city-dwellers outdoor getaways for the better part of a century.

Summer is usually the peak season for these resorts, but if you’re visiting the Catskills in the winter, you’ll definitely want to book a stay.

Winter Clove Inn , located in Round Top, NY, is a favorite of those looking for a fun winter getaway. People wanting to explore the great outdoors can enjoy trails for winter hiking and cross-country skiing, while more indoorsy types can lounge by the heated indoor pool or try out the resort’s antique bowling alley. 

Additionally, Mohonk Mountain House is a luxury property featuring loads of winter activities—including well-maintained snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails, outdoor ice skating, and a tubing hill. Just note that while it’s considered an all-inclusive, you’ll need to pay extra for alcohol.

2. Ski or snowboard some of the best trails in New York

If you’re a winter sports fan, you’ll definitely want to ski in the Catskills.

Winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing are constantly listed as some of the best things to do in the Catskills in winter. The area is home to several top ski resorts, each with something for every kind of winter athlete.

For instance, Hunter Mountain boasts the highest peak in Greene County as well as a top-tier snowmaking system, leading to perfect trails all season long.

Looking for things to do near Hunter Mountain in winter off the slopes? The mountain’s base lodge at the Kaaterskill Mountain Club is home to a top-rated spa, delicious restaurants, and tons of fun adventure activities. 

3. Ride North America’s highest & longest zipline

*Note: This attraction is currently closed. I am not sure when it will re-open.

Speaking of Hunter Mountain, this is where you’ll also find a year-round zipline, which you can enjoy through New York Zipline Canopy Tours . Not only that, but it’s North America’s highest and longest zipline as well as the second-largest zipline in the world.

It features over 4 miles of zipline, heights of nearly 700 feet, and speeds up to 50 miles per hour.

While they offer a variety of tours, the most extreme option is the SkyRider Tour. You’ll need to take a ski lift to access the first line of this crisscrossing zipline — which features five zips and one shaky canopy bridge — before propelling your body over a canyon so high you almost can’t see the bottom.

If you can keep your eyes open, you’ll enjoy mountain, lake, and woodland views.

4. Climb a frozen waterfall

One of the most thrilling winter adventures to have in the Catskills is scaling a frozen waterfall or ice-covered mountain.

The region is especially great for ice climbing as it has trails for all abilities. Around Saugerties, Tannersville, and Phoenicia in the Catskills you’ll find many different ice climbing options, like Deep Notch, Stony Clove, Platte Clove, and Kaaterskill Clove.

My top picks include Kaaterskill Clove and Platte Clove . While Kaaterskill Clove is home to Buttermilk Falls, Hilyer Ravine, and the famous Kaaterskill Falls, Platte Clove features the challenging Devil’s Kitchen, Black Chasm, and Japanese Falls.

And when the ice melts, these areas open up to mountains, rock, and alpine climbers.

If you’ve never climbed, there are numerous companies in the Catskills that offer a guided experience, like Mountain Skills Climbing Guides , HighXPosure Adventure , and Alpine Endeavors .

5. Ice harvest

While you can only participate in this once a year, it’s well worth the trip to take part in the fun.

Every year around early February,  Hanford Mills Museum  hosts their Ice Harvest Festival, which features one day of winter fun with a hot soup buffet, horse-drawn sleigh rides, children’s games and activities, outdoor fire pits, films showing ice harvesting in the 1930s and, of course, the chance to harvest ice for yourself.

Attendees get the chance to put on ice cleats, grab a hand saw, and chisel out blocks of ice to be harvested. This ice is used for a variety of things, one of which is making ice cream for their annual 4th of July party.

6. Take in a show at one of the local theaters

Looking for something to do on a cold winter’s night? The Catskills region is home to many beloved theater companies and concert venues featuring everything from hot new plays to top national acts.

The historic Ulster Performing Arts Center in Kingston hosts performances from well-known musicians, touring comedy acts, and even screenings of beloved films.

Theater buffs will also want to get tickets for a performance at the Bridge Street Theatre in Catskill, NY — producing exciting work from up-and-coming playwrights as well as classics of the theatrical canon. 

7. Dash through the snow on a snowmobile

Want to get in some thrills on your Catskills winter getaway? Book a snowmobiling excursion at the Catskills Forest Preserve .

If you don’t own your own sled, you’ll find several places to rent a vehicle including Ridge View Lodge and Flat Rock Inn , both in Lowville.

This is definitely one of the most exciting ways to see the Catskills in winter!

8. Hike your way through the mountains

Winter hiking the Catskills is a great way to enjoy the mountains’ seasonal glory. The region is home to some of the absolute best hiking in Upstate New York .

Depending on your experience and current trail conditions, you can explore the trails by simply wearing sturdy boots or, if necessary, by attaching crampons or ice cleats to your footwear to keep you safe from falling.

Overlook Mountain in Woodstock is a favorite spot for Catskills winter hiking, featuring beautiful views of the Hudson River and the valley below.

More advanced hikers will also want to check out Giant Ledge , a challenging hike with incredible views at the top! 

On a recent winter trip to the Catskills, I visited Mohonk Preserve and hiked the Millbrook Ridge Trail Loop , which offered beautiful views of the area. While slightly icy, I didn’t need crampons or MICROspikes, though check specific trail conditions when you visit.

9. Go eagle spotting

The Catskills are home to myriad bald eagles, especially in Sullivan County.

Your best bet for spotting these amazing birds is at Mongaup Falls Reservoir , where it is not uncommon to see as many as 20 eagles at one time!

10. Go for a winter skydive

Imagine throwing yourself from a turbine-powered airplane 13,500 feet in the air while immersed in the beautiful scenery of the Catskills. Skydive The Ranch makes this vision a reality.

During this year-round adrenaline rush, you’ll also be encouraged to pull your own ripcord and fly the parachute.

And if you think you want to take your skydiving to the next level, they also offer an “Instructor Assisted Freefall (IAF)” skydiver training program.

11. See 19th-century carvings in the woods

Not many people know about Pratt Rock , located in New York’s first planned town, Prattsville. You can access the rock from Route 23 where you can park and read some background information before trekking uphill to the unusual attraction. 

A limestone quarry features small caves and interesting formations as well as sculptures created by a begging stonecutter whom Zadock Pratt — an entrepreneur and statesman who quadrupled Prattsville’s population by building the world’s largest tannery at the time — employed.

Because Pratt believed in workfare and not welfare, he put the needy man to work instead of simply handing him money. In the end, he was so impressed with the craftsmanship he had the beggar continue building from 1843 until Pratt passed away in 1871.

Visitors to the rock can see busks, horses, a brawny arm holding a sledgehammer, and other images depicting the life of Zadock Pratt. You’ll also pass Pratt’s grave, where he was buried along with his dogs.

It’s not everyday you find such a site just sitting in the woods, and it’s certainly worth the trek.

12. Relax at one of the Catskills’ top spas

What better way to warm up and melt away winter stress than with a spa getaway? Many luxury Catskills resorts showcase world-class spas that can offer a respite from an action-packed winter vacation.

Want to try some of the latest trends in self-care? Head to Emerson Resort and Spa in Mount Tremper, a top-rated facility offering everything from classic Swedish massages to global therapies like Shirodhara, an Aryuvedic oil treatment. 

13. See the world’s largest kaleidoscope

Speaking of Emerson Resort, along with having a great spa, they’re also home to the world’s largest kaleidoscope, called the Kaatskill Kaleidoscope .

Designed by 1960s psychedelic artist Isaac Abrams and his son Raphael, the kaleidoscope is 56 feet high and is housed in a converted grain silo.

You’ll be able to look through the kaleidoscope by laying on the floor during a trippy show.

Additionally, you’ll be able to take a kaleidoscope home with you, as their gift shop sells many!

14. Avoid the winter weather with a day at an indoor water park

If you spend your winter months counting down the days until summer returns, the Catskills has you covered.

The Kartrite Resort and Indoor Waterpark in Monticello features 84-degree temperatures, tons of rides and slides, a transparent roof, and even private cabanas for a little extra relaxation.

Here, you can hit the slides and ignore the freezing Catskills weather while getting just as many thrills as you would on the slopes.

The resort also offers tons of other cool indoor activities like a climbing wall, a ropes course, bowling, and more to keep you entertained and out of the cold.   

15. Explore the Shawankgunk Wine Trail in winter

Wine tours aren’t just for the warmer months. Though the trees in the vineyards may be temporarily bare, there’s plenty to enjoy on the Shawankgunk Wine Trail in the winter.

This stretch of wineries throughout the Catskills and Hudson Valley offers some of the best varietals the state has to offer, and it’s easy to hop from one vineyard to the next.

One winery you shouldn’t miss when doing the trail is Brotherhood Winery , which was established in 1839 and is the oldest winery in the USA .

To get around, you can:

• book a wine tour ( like this one )
• rent a car from Discover Cars , a comparison tool that allows you to quickly compare your rental options
• hire a car with a driver from a site like Ridebooker

16. Take in the winter mountain views on a horseback ride

For a truly unique winter experience, book a winter trail ride with one of the many horse ranches in the Catskills. While you’ll definitely want to bundle up for this adventure, exploring the snowy mountain trails is an experience you won’t soon forget.

Rolling Stone Ranch in Bethel offers trail rides throughout the year on one of their gorgeous horses. You also won’t need a ton of riding experience to enjoy this trek — just dress warm, saddle up, and follow your guide’s lead! 

17. Explore the Catskills’ vibrant small towns

The Catskills region is dotted with idyllic small towns perfect for exploring. Featuring cute main streets lined with interesting shops, adorable inns, and delicious restaurants, these towns are ideal for New York getaways in winter.

Looking for top-tier vintage and antique shopping? Head to New Paltz , a funky college town that’s an art and fashion lover’s dream.

Here you’re also not too far from some of my favorite Catskills restaurants, including the Stone House Tavern (try the tofu wings!) and Rough Cut Brewing .

Want to enjoy the many flavors of the Catskills? Roscoe is the place for you, featuring amazing farm-to-table restaurants, beer gardens, and quaint streets to wander. 

There’s also Woodstock with its hippie vibe, Phoenicia with its abundance of hiking trails, and Windham which is excellent for skiing and winter sports.

These are just a few of many small towns and villages in the Catskills of New York.

18. Learn about the Catskills’ role in American art history

The rolling hills of the Catskills have been inspiring artists of all kinds for centuries.

You can learn all about the role the region played in the history of American art at several area museums, including the Thomas Cole National Historic Site .

This important site celebrates the life and art of Thomas Cole — founder of the Hudson River School of landscape painting — through preserved 19th-century parlors, exhibits of historic and contemporary art, and classes for those looking to explore their creative sides. 

19. Tour the art galleries of the Catskills

On the subject of art, you’ll find plenty of contemporary art galleries throughout the small towns of the Catskills.

The region is home to many artists working in varying styles and media, so you’re bound to find something that catches your eye here.

For instance, M Gallery in Catskill houses landscape paintings in the Hudson River School style alongside historic illustrations from the 19th and 20th centuries, while the Roxbury Art Group in Roxbury features rotating exhibits from local contemporary artists and performances of all kinds.

A gallery trip is the perfect way to spend a winter day inside when it’s too cold to do anything else. 

20. Go ice skating in the great outdoors

Once the temperatures drop, it’s time to break out the ice skates! Ice skating is one of the best winter activities in New York, and skating among the mighty Catskill Mountains is an experience you won’t want to miss.

Not a huge fan of Catskills skiing? Skip the slopes and hit the ice at the outdoor rink at Wind ham Mountain Adventure Park .

You can also enjoy gorgeous views of the Mohonk Preserve from the rink at Mohonk Mountain House’s Pavillion . The rink is open to the public and skates are available to hotel guests free of charge.

By the way, this property is also one of the top Thanksgiving getaways from NYC if you’re looking to travel for the holiday.

21. Get away from it all with a Catskills winter camping adventure

The many campgrounds of the Catskills region offer plenty of ways to stay in the great outdoors, even in the winter months. Since pitching a tent isn’t ideal this time of year, many campsites feature rustic Catskills winter cabin rentals.

For instance, at Getaway Eastern Catskills in Catskill you can book tiny pet-friendly cabins with modern amenities — like a kitchenette, bathroom including a hot shower, and an outdoor grill and fire pit. You’ll also be near to outdoor attractions like the Mawignack Preserve and the Devil’s Path Trail.

Looking for something with a touch of luxe? Book one of the gorgeous cabins or glamping tents at the Eastwind Windham , featuring all the comforts of a top hotel room alongside gorgeous outdoor views.

There are also numerous rustic rentals on VRBO if you’d prefer to book a self-contained stay.

Pro tip: if you’re planning a winter camping trip but want to avoid the snow, try booking your trip to the Catskills in November; temperatures will be chilly, but you won’t have to worry too much about getting snowed in. 

22. Be a part of rock and roll history at The Museum at Bethel Woods

The story of the 1969 Woodstock Music and Art Fair, which actually took place in Bethel, NY, is chronicled at The Museum at Bethel Woods , an arts center built on the site of the iconic festival.

The museum features photos, videos, and artifacts — including a classic hippie bus — that will take you through those historic three days, when legends like Creedence Clearwater Revival, the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, and more came together to rock this small Catskill farm.

Inspired by what you’ve seen (and heard)? Stick around the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts to catch some live music. 

Travel Insurance For A Catskills Winter Getaway

When visiting the Catskills — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country).

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What are some of your favorite things to do in the Catskills in winter?

Related posts:.

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business

Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) //  Privacy Policy . 

Check your inbox for your welcome email + resource library password!

nice blog you listed out the best place these are the nice places to explore the winter . it is very useful to who want to choose the best place for their first trip .

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

• THE REGIONS & TOWNS
• STATE PARKS
• SEAWAY TRAIL
• SPAS & WELLNESS CENTERS
• * FAMILY FUN *
• CULTURAL HERITAGE
• SPORTS & RECREATION
• BIRDING & NATURE
• FISHING CHARTERS
• BOAT RENTALS
• HIKING / BIKING / KAYAKING the ERIE CANAL
• HIKING & BIKING the EMPIRE TRAIL
• SKIING & WINTER SPORTS
• RESTAURANTS & PUBS
• WINE TRAILS
• CRAFT BEER & BREWERIES
• HOTELS & MOTELS
• BED & BREAKFAST
• CAMPING & RV
• VACATION RENTALS
• NEW YORK by RAIL (AMTRAK)
• FOOD & HISTORY TOURS
• EVENTS CALENDAR
• FAIRS & FESTIVALS
• EV CHARGING MAP
• ADVERTISING
• Site Search

BROWSE ATTRACTIONS

> A Fair Haven Beach State Park Winter

14985 state park rd, sterling, ny 13156, > adirondack state park in winter, st. regis falls, ny 12980, > allegany state park in winter, 2373 asp route 1, salamanca, ny 14779, > bear mtn state park in winter, route 9w north, bear mountain, ny 10911, > beaver island state park in winter, 2136 oakfield road, grand island, ny 14072, > bowman lake state park loves winter, 745 bliven sherman road, oxford, ny 13830, > cayuga lake state park offers winter fun, 2678 lower lake road, seneca falls, ny 13148, > chenango valley state park loves winter, 153 state park road, chenango forks, ny 13746, > de veaux woods state park in winter, 180 de veaux woods drive, niagara falls, ny 14305, > empire state plaza - ice skating and more, 279 madison ave., albany, ny 12210, > enjoy winter at gilbert lake state park, 18 ccc road, laurens, ny 13796, > fillmore glen state park, 1686 state route 38 moravia, ny 13118, > greece canal park in winter, 241 elmgrove road, rochester, ny 14626, > hamlin beach state park is open for winter, 1 hamlin beach state park, hamlin, ny 14464, > harriman state park in winter, 54 seven lakes drive, sloatsburg, ny 10974, > higley flow state park in winter, 442 cold brook dr., colton, ny 13625.

Discover Upstate NY

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

20 Best Places to Visit in Upstate New York

There's plenty to see in New York beyond the Big Apple.

Wendy O'Dea has worked as a travel journalist and content strategist for two decades. Her work has appeared in USA Today, Travel + Leisure, 10best.com, Robb Report , and many other outlets. 

Occasionally, when I tell people I'm from New York, their reaction is something along the lines of, "But you don't sound like you're from New York." I wonder, have they forgotten there's a whole state beyond the Big Apple?

But upstate New York, with its majestic mountains, abundance of lakes, and charming small towns, is anything but forgettable as anyone who has been to the region knows. For those who haven't yet visited, or want to see more of it, here are 20 of the best places to visit in upstate New York.

Conesus Lake

Conesus Lake is the westernmost Finger Lake, drawing crowds every year for its July 3rd Ring of Fire, when 10,000 flares are lit along its periphery as fireworks explode overhead. Nearby, the tiny hamlet of Lakeville is home to the Little Lake Brewing brewery, one of the stops along the new Livingston Libation Loop that maps out wineries, cideries, and craft microbreweries around the county. While there, don't miss the recently installed street murals and art along the 90-mile self-guided Inspirations Trail.

Cooperstown

The National Baseball Hall of Fame is just one of the notable attractions worth visiting in this quaint New York village. The Fenimore Art Museum , built on land once owned by novelist James Fenimore Cooper, features an impressive collection of American art, and the Glimmerglass Festival , held each summer, lures opera lovers from far and wide. Visitors to nearby Howe Caverns (about 38 miles east), can go caving or spelunking at New York state's second-most visited natural attraction.

Letchworth State Park

Known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park features an impressive gorge carved out over centuries by the Genesee River. You'll find dozens of camera-ready waterfalls where the river dramatically crashes down along shale, limestone, and sandstone cliffs that rise 550 feet at their highest point. A recently built Autism Nature Trail , the first in the country designed for people on the autism spectrum, includes eight marked sensory stations spread across a one-mile loop.

Niagara Falls

In addition to the iconic Niagara Falls, the Niagara Falls Underground Railroad Heritage Center is worth a stop to learn more about the history of the Underground Railroad, which often culminated at the Canadian border. Learn about Harriet Tubman and local heroes like John Morrison. The museum's permanent exhibit, " One More River to Cross ," received the 2019 Award of Excellence from the American Association for State and Local History.

Located at the southwestern end of Chautauqua Lake, Jamestown is best known as the hometown of comedienne Lucille Ball. Visitors with an appreciation of comedy should pop by the National Comedy Center — the first museum dedicated to the art of comedy. For something more intellectual, the renowned Chautauqua Institution is a short drive up the lake, and each summer features speakers, performers, and programs focused on the "exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life."

Ellicottville

About an hour south of Buffalo, in the foothills of the Allegheny Mountains, this quaint village exudes charm as witnessed by the well-preserved and restored homes and buildings dating back to the 19th century. It's also where western New York sports enthusiasts and skiers go to mountain bike, hike, or slalom down the 60 slopes and trails at neighboring Holiday Valley Resort .

Seneca Falls

Situated at the north end of Cayuga Lake, this historic spot is believed to be the inspiration for the town of Bedford Falls in Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life." Most notably, though, is the important role it played in the women's rights movement, having hosted the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848. The town's Convention Days (each July) attract crowds, and the Women's Rights National Historical Park is worth visiting, too. You can also toast to the suffragettes while wine tasting along one of the many nearby Finger Lakes wine trails.

Skaneateles

This affluent town whose name means "long lake" in native Iroquois is another central New York destination known for its wine tasting and fall foliage. It's also a favorite among avid cyclists who come to pedal the 32-mile trail around the lake. Each year, starting Thanksgiving weekend, the town hosts its annual Dickens Christmas celebration with live entertainment, horse and wagon rides, and a cast of Dickensian characters.

Lake George

Few lakes around New York state are known for scuba diving, so visitors are often surprised to discover that certified divers can explore 18th-century shipwrecks at the bottom of Lake George, including the oldest intact warship in North America. Vacationers flock to this town in the Adirondack region each summer, and the crowds can get thick, but there's also plenty of winter fun to be had, including snowshoeing and a family-focused carnival every February.

Saranac Lake

The Adirondack Mountains have beckoned city dwellers for centuries, including tycoons like the Guggenheims and Vanderbilts, who owned rustic yet luxurious compounds known as the Great Camps. The Point , once a Rockefeller Great Camp, still welcomes guests with all-inclusive stays that harken back to that time, complete with black-tie dinners. The resort is near the village of Saranac Lake, nestled between the mountains and lakes and filled with inviting boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Not only is Ithaca a top-notch college town, but it's also a natural wonderland with breathtaking gorges, parks, and waterfalls, like Taughannock Falls, with a height three times that of Niagara Falls. There's an abundance of activities around the city, too, including a botanical garden, boat tours, wine trails, and a self-guided Discovery Trail that highlights local history, astronomy, and earth science. Rumor has it that it was also the birthplace of the ice cream sundae .

Watkins Glen and Montour Falls

In upstate New York, many destinations are defined by their proximity to one of the state's lakes — and so it is, with Watkins Glen, found on the southern end of Seneca Lake. Best known for its legendary auto-racing history, the Watkins Glen International racetrack has played host to countless races, from the Grand Prix to Nascar to Formula One. It's also a good jumping-off point to hit the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , which stretches along the length of the lake and is the largest wine trail in the Finger Lakes.

Saratoga Springs

Just because Saratoga Springs is already known as a popular vacation destination doesn't mean you shouldn't go. There's something classically old-school about spending a day at the races at the famous Saratoga Race Course or at Saratoga Spa State Park , which is a National Historic Landmark. The art scene is solid, too, with impressive productions at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center , the Spa Little Theatre , and other venues.

Thousand Islands

The U.S.-Canadian border snakes through the St. Lawrence River, zigzagging through the spectacular Thousand Islands archipelago where the river meets Lake Ontario. The archipelago consists of about 1,800 islands, from small and craggy to large and lush. Visitors converge here each summer and fall to soak up views of picture-perfect lighthouses and dramatic castles, including the never-inhabited Boldt Castle. On the nearby mainland, towns include Clayton, Cape Vincent, and Sackets Harbor, the latter of which has been designated a New York State Heritage Area.

An affluent upstate New York community, Pittsford is a charmer set on the banks of the Erie Canal. This year, the town — and many others along the path of this historic waterway that connects the Atlantic with the Great Lakes — celebrates its bicentennial with special programming. That includes a twilight boat tour on the Sam Patch, a replica 1800s packet boat. Come summer, visitors and locals dine at Schoen Place overlooking the canal, then line up for homemade ice cream at Pittsford Farms Dairy & Bakery . Other attractions include neighboring Mendon Ponds Park and The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester.

Ausable Chasm

In the eastern Adirondacks, not far from Lake Champlain and the Vermont border, Ausable Chasm is a two-mile-long sandstone gorge carved out 500 million years ago. It's another ideal destination for chasing waterfalls (particularly the cascading Rainbow Falls) and exploring the Adirondacks on its many hiking and adventure trails. It's also a stone's throw from the North Star Underground Railroad Museum , which tells the stories of slaves seeking freedom at the Canadian border, located about an hour north by car.

Dia Beacon , a celebrated collection of contemporary art, brought a lot of attention — and visitors — to this city on the banks of the Hudson River. And with that attention came more appreciation for the many other galleries, shops, cafés, breweries, and antique stores that have taken up residence on its magnetic Main Street. Trek to the top of Mount Beacon or book a boat tour to Pollepel Island (known locally as Bannerman Island), which Native Americans believed was inhabited by haunted, hostile spirits.

About a three-hour drive from New York City, this mountain town welcomes adventurers with its multitude of endorphin-producing activities, including the fastest and longest zip-line canopy tour in North America. There's a charming Main Street in this "gem of the Catskills," with inviting boutiques, bistros, and galleries. In August 2022, the Wylder Windham hotel reopened with a pickleball court, heated pool, and wine tastings every weekend.

Don't write off Buffalo just because of its infamous winter weather. The city continues to evolve as a tourism destination, with the recent restoration of Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House , a restored historic carousel on the Buffalo Waterfront, and a big expansion of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum (previously known as the Albright-Knox Art Gallery).

Sylvan Beach

Since we're highlighting towns around New York's Finger Lakes, Oneida Lake and the village of Sylvan Beach deserve a shout-out, too. It's a great option for a classic upstate summer vacation, where visitors can spend the day at the town's old-timey amusement park, kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, or simply relaxing lakeside with a bottle of local vino. Another way to while away the day is on the water: Rent a cottage at the new Cove at Sylvan Beach, where each rental includes a private pontoon boat.

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in New York State (Including Upstate)

Last Updated By VacationIdea on March 23, 2024 in New York

The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

2655 South Park Ave, Buffalo , NY 14218, Phone: 716-827-1584 , Map

Delicious dining options in Cazenovia include the acclaimed Lincklaen House, which serves up casual fine dining in a stunning historic building stocked with period furniture. More day trips from Rochester, NY

Visitors can also view the historic Bloody Run site, which commemorates the site of a significant battle between indigenous American villagers and European generals. Finger Lakes Weekend Getaways

Ellicottville

Other special events include a Mardi Gras celebration, a Jazz and Blues Festival, and a Rock'n'Oldies Weekend.

The Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County

More ideas: Things to do in Utica

Ausable Chasm

More ideas: New York Beaches

Coney Island History Project - Preserving Coney Island's Past

More Day Trips from Long Island and Trips from NYC Without a Car

Hunter Mountain

More ideas: Best Hudson Valley Day Trips

The city is also renowned for its extensive live music scene, which is home to more than 80 venues throughout the greater region and has produced major independent rock artists like the X Ambassadors and Kurt Riley. Map

Lake Placid

Visitors can enjoy a plethora of hotels and activities throughout the city's beautiful Adirondack Mountains landscape, including opportunities for skiing at nearby Whiteface Mountain, which is home to Eastern North America's highest vertical elevation. If you are asking yourself: "Where should I go in Upstate NY?", Lake Placid is a great destination for couples and families. More New York Lakes

Letchworth State Park

More ideas: things to do in Watertown

Guest lecturers are also showcased throughout the summer, including international luminaries such as Deepak Chopra, Wayne Dyer, James Van Praagh. Lisa Williams, and members of the television series Ghost Hunters. More day trips from Albany, NY

New York Adventure Club - Great Tours of New York City's Hidden Gems

Whether you’re a total newbie to New York City or a lifelong resident, you can get a lot out of these tours and experiences. Even if you think you know New York better than anyone, you’ll be surprised to learn and see what the New York Adventure Club has to offer. As the name suggests, the New York Adventure Club really is a club, with a focused community vibe and atmosphere. More info

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

3395 Hwy 20, Seneca Falls, NY 13148, Phone: 315-568-5987 , Map

Niagara Falls

Visitors can also ride the Maid of the Mist tour boat for an up-close view of the falls directly on the water. Where to Stay Near Niagara Falls

More ideas: Day Trips from Connecticut

Skaneateles

Annual special events hosted by the town throughout the year include the summer Skaneateles Festival music event, the Skaneateles Antique and Classic Boat Show, and the Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles period holiday event.

The National Museum of Play

1 Manhattan Square Dr, Rochester, NY 14607, Phone: 585-263-2700 , Map

The Thousand Islands

Other gorgeous structures on the islands include the romantic 120-room Boldt Castle and the living history museum Singer Castle. Activities in Alexandria Bay, NY

Tupper Lake

Visitors can also explore attractions such as the Six Nations Indian Museum or sample brews at Raquette River Brewing. More Hudson Valley day trips

More ideas: things to do in Glens Falls

Watkins Glen

More ideas: Best Castles in New York

Women's Rights National Historical Park

More ideas: Best Erie Canal Cruises

1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, Phone: 845-765-3286

2 W 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, Phone: 716-484-0800 , Map

• 1. The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
• 2. Cazenovia
• 4. Ellicottville
• 5. The Enchanted Mountains of Cattaraugus County
• 6. Ausable Chasm
• 7. Coney Island History Project - Preserving Coney Island's Past
• 8. Hunter Mountain
• 10. Lake Placid
• 11. Letchworth State Park
• 12. Lily Dale
• 13. New York Adventure Club - Great Tours of New York City's Hidden Gems
• 14. Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge
• 15. Niagara Falls
• 16. Rochester
• 17. Skaneateles
• 18. The National Museum of Play
• 19. The Thousand Islands
• 20. Tupper Lake
• 22. Watkins Glen
• 23. Women's Rights National Historical Park

More Features

18 Most Beautiful Resort Spa Baths and Pools

5 Best Things to Do in Long Beach, New York

The Inn at Erlowest, Lake George

• About Us/Contact Us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Service

The Best Things to Do in Upstate NY: Hidden Gems and Bucket List Must-Sees

W hen you live in Brooklyn, everything north of the Bronx is considered upstate New York. New York State sprawls over 300 square miles, bordering Canada, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The year-round activities in upstate New York can include hiking , biking, visiting wineries and breweries (some of which have live music) and museums. Seasonal activities include kayaking and canoeing in summer, skiing or snowshoeing in winter, maple sugaring in spring and apple picking in fall.

You can see the Hudson River through much of upstate New York. It starts more than 300 miles away from New York City and travels through small towns throughout much of its run.

Read More: Where to Find the best Catskills NY restaurants .

Day Trips from NYC

Beacon is an ideal day trip to upstate NY. You can drive to Beacon in about two hours or take the MetroNorth Hudson Line from Grand Central to Beacon, NY. This is a wonderfully scenic train ride along the Hudson River.

Once you arrive, there’s an easy one-mile hiking trail that starts right at the MetroNorth Station. The Klara Sauer Trail takes you to Denning’s Point, where you can pick up a 3-mile loop trail. This is a great hiking trail for young kids, as it is relatively flat and stroller friendly.

The town of Beacon is a short cab ride (or long walk) from the train station. There, you’ll find cafes, restaurants and shops. The Dia Beacon Art Museum is a must-see. Art lovers take pilgrimages here. If this is on your bucket list, keep in mind that the museum is closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Spend the day at Untermyer Park and Gardens , the ruins of an estate from the 1800s. Untermyer overlooks the Hudson River and Old Croton Aqueduct. There are woodland trails and remnants of the gardens and staircases around the 43 acres.

You can even bike here from New York City, following the Empire State Trailway and Hudson River Greenway.

Untermyer Park and Gardens has a live music concert series in the summer.

Hudson Valley: Hiking and Art

Storm King Art Center , an outdoor sculpture museum , has 500 acres of forest, hills, meadows and streams. It also has one of the largest sculpture gardens in the United States. It is both a contemporary art museum and hiking or biking destination. There are bike rentals if you want to cycle around the 500-acre sculpture garden; you can’t bring your own bike. 

Eat lunch at the cafe or bring food to eat at picnic tables. On the 3rd Friday in June, July and August, Storm King , in New Windsor, NY  is open late, and food truck vendors provide dinner options.

SheBuysTravel Tip: An outdoor museum is a great way to introduce children to art and museums. Once they think of museums as fun, indoor art museums are an easier sell.

The historic West Point Foundry Preserve in Cold Spring is also both an outdoor museum and a place to go hiking.

The Putnam County preserve has abandoned building ruins and waterfalls, along with a few short hiking trails. The 19th century foundry produced guns and cannons during the Civil War.

A giant waterwheel and information panels about the history of the Foundry spice up the trees and views expected on a hike. 

Another Hike, with Apples, not Art

Anthony’s Nose, near Cold Spring, offers spectacular views of the Hudson River. But you have to work for it. The 500-foot rock staircase has a half-mile vertical climb. This short hike, just past the Bear Mountain Bridge in Garrison, is actually part of the Appalachian Trail.

Combine this hike with a trip to Fishkill Farms . The family-owned apple orchard and vegetable farm in East Fishkill, New York, grows organic vegetables and eco-certified fruit. You can pick your own apples, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, nectarines, tomatoes and pumpkins, depending on the time of year. There are special weekend events like yoga and live music so you can make a day of it.

Harriman State Park: Rockland County

Harriman State Park has more than 200 miles of trails with limited parking. Get here early and enjoy uncrowded hiking trails.

Rockland Lake State Park

There is a lake somewhere in Rockland Lake State Park, but the six-mile hike we take brings us up to a scenic Hudson River view, then down for a stroll along the river.

The part of the trail along the river even has bathrooms and drinking fountains.

Best Easy Hiking: Rockefeller Preserve

With its stunning views and easy hiking trails, this Hudson Valley masterpiece is no hidden gem. It gets very crowded. Rockefeller State Park Preserve , 30 miles north of Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, charges $6 to park, which does deter bargain hunters. I consider $6 a small price to pay for clean flush toilets.

The crushed stone carriage roads have been turned into 45 miles of wide, flat hiking trails. This makes the hiking trails family and stroller friendly. You may even see cross-country teams training here.

You can bring a dog, but the rules about keeping dogs on leash are strictly enforced.

Breakneck Ridge: Leave the Dog at Home

Breakneck Ridge offers the most difficult hiking near NYC. Take MetroNorth to Breakneck, near Cold Spring. The steep hike can be treacherous when slippery and is so challenging that dogs are not allowed on the trail.

You get great views of the Hudson Valley and even Storm King Mountain. If you and your [older] kids are up to it, it is one of the best hikes near NYC.

Short Getaways from New York City to Upstate NY

The catskills.

The Catskills is where my parents used to go on vacation, and it has become a popular second-home destination for New Yorkers. If you don’t want to go all the way to Niagara Falls, hike to Kaaterskill Falls. The waterfalls here are over 260 feet high. Here are our favorite things to do in the Catskills .

SheBuysTravel Tip: This is a rigorous hike with lots of loose rocks. You have to stay on marked hiking trails and stay at least six feet from cliff edges. Don’t bring dogs or small children.

Mohonk Mountain House

A National Historic Landmark, the Mohonk Mountain House is one of the grand resorts where you can spend a few days, using all the facilities and eating the delicious meals and afternoon tea served daily. 

There’s a spa, indoor pool, lake swimming, boating, tennis, golf and horseback riding in summer. In winter, there is outdoor ice skating, snowshoeing and cross country skiing and snow tubing. 

But if you don’t have the time, or the money, to stay here, you can buy a day pass to use the hiking trails. Passes are $35 a person for ages 13 and up and $30 for children ages 4-12. Yes, it’s expensive, but you have access to more than 85 miles of trails, with both easy and difficult terrain. There are carriage paths, rock scrambles and steep hiking trails. Day passes include parking and bathrooms.

For a full-day getaway, a summer sports pass, for $99, includes hiking, an hour of tennis, a half hour of a boat and afternoon tea.

Dogs are not allowed on Mohonk property.

Hudson – Brooklyn in Upstate NY

Hudson, New York, is one of those small upstate towns where Brooklynites go to find other former Brooklynites. The quaint downtown is lined with cafes and boutiques.

Hudson Brewing Company is a dog-friendly brewery that often has live music. And always has tasty beer.

If ice cream upsets your stomach, check out Culture Cream, “living ice cream” that has probiotics and is good for your gut (if not your waistline).

Harlem Valley Rail Trail

This rail trail, under construction since 1996, goes for more than 26 miles through Dutchess and Columbia Counties. We have walked and biked through another adorable small town, Millerton. The paved rail trail is great for families with strollers.

Longer Getaways to Upstate New York

You can take a road trip to many upstate New York destinations. The Adirondack Mountains, Niagara Falls and Thousand Islands are all better with multi-day trips from New York City.

The Adirondacks

The Adirondacks is a vast region encompassing small towns, 6 million acres of Forever Wild Forest Preserves and the largest National Historic Landmark in the United States. According to Visit Adirondacks, it covers “an area larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and the Great Smokies National Parks combined.”

From New York City, and depending on where you are going in the Adirondacks, it takes between five and seven hours to drive here. You want to spend several days exploring outdoor adventures.

Our friends have an off-the-grid house, powered by solar panels and heated by a wood stove. In summer, this is a wonderful, remote escape from the heat of Manhattan, and in winter, you are pretty much guaranteed snow for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and downhill skiing.

We recently spent three days hiking and canoeing. Our dog had never been on a boat before, but she took to it like a champ. Her favorite activity was splashing through the marshy path to a boathouse, which reached mid-thigh on adults and past the shoulders of a Labrador Retriever. Canine heaven.

But also, nirvana for adults. The Hudson River starts here and feeds the lakes. You can go fishing, swim in the many lakes, or just enjoy the spectacular scenery.

We had to be intentional about what we ate and the electricity we consumed. The house, called a camp in Adirondacks parlance, is 45 minutes down a dirt road and more than two hours from a supermarket, so you want to make sure not to run out of oat milk or shallots before you commit to the long bumpy drive.

You also have to wait to run the dishwasher until the sun comes out.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have friends with a private Adirondacks camp, you can pitch a tent in the millions of acres owned by New York State. There is no fee to enter, and the park never closes, so you are free to pitch a tent in the forest and commune with nature.

There’s Culture Too

When you tire of all the outdoor adventures, you can go to 2 museums in the area, The Museum at Blue Mountain Lake and The Wild Center Natural History Museum in Tupper Lake.

The Finger Lakes Region

Culture and food in ithaca.

Ithaca’s hidden gem is Cornell University’s art museum, designed by I.M. Pei. The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, free to visit, includes a Japanese garden and an outdoor Sculpture Court.

The Corning Museum of Glass has glassblowing and flame-throwing demonstrations throughout the day. The galleries feature glass collections from ancient to contemporary. You can make your own glass project or design something for the glass blowers to make.

 If you are traveling with children, kids 17 and under are free. 

Ithaca is also home to Moosewood Restaurant, a bucket list destination for vegans and vegetarians. As the owner of every Moosewood cookbook, this is a true mecca.

Ithaca Beer, home to the justly famed Flower Power IPA, has a huge beer garden and its own farm. The restaurant serves its homegrown produce alongside beer-friendly food for all kinds of eaters.

Watkins Glen and Watkins Glen State Park

There are plenty of fun things to do in Watkins Glen , but you definitely don’t want to miss Watkins Glen State Park with its dramatic waterfalls and easy hiking trails. There are slippery rocks (from those waterfalls) and steps, so it’s really more like a rigorous walk. Go early when it’s empty – you can even run through the state park then.

The wine trail goes through Watkins Glen. Lakewood Vineyards has a Vineyard Hike and Tasting, where you walk through the vineyard and sample wine in the gazebo. 

You can take a boat tour of Seneca Lake. Captain Bill’s has sightseeing tours and lunch or dinner cruises. We took a 50-minute sightseeing cruise in the heat of the summer and the water offered a cool (ish) breeze. I’d love to return for the longer sunset cruise.

Chautauqua County – Really Far from New York City

Chautauqua, which many people in New York City have never even heard of, is a seven-hour drive. In fact, it is closer to Cleveland, Ohio. During the pandemic, my oldest daughter moved to Cleveland, and we rendezvoused in Chautauqua.

National Comedy Center

Laughter is currency in our family, so the National Comedy Center in Jamestown was on our bucket list. You could spend all day here, learning about different comics through the ages, watching clips of your favorite TV shows and movies, and even performing stand-up. This incredible paean to humor opened in 2018 in Lucille Ball’s hometown.

You complete a comedy profile on a big screen, using a personal stylus to select shows and movies you like. You get a personalized bracelet embedded with a chip to identify yourself at different interactive stations around the museum (the better to find the snarky or political, broad or dirty humor you prefer). 

Jamestown also has the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, showcasing costumes and sets from different Lucy shows. The museum hosts an annual comedy festival.

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

The privately owned park Panama Rocks Scenic Park in Chautauqua County has easy hiking trails. But you can also climb giant rock formations and explore caves and crevices. 

Note that strollers are not allowed in the park.

Thousand Islands Region

The Thousand Island Region, on the northern edge of upstate New York, is modestly named. There are actually more than 1,800 islands, and Lake Ontario. Some of the islands are in Canada, along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. 

The Thousand Islands region is more than a six-hour drive from New York City (and three hours from Montreal ). Once a summer vacation area for wealthy Americans (and Canadians) in the late 18th and early 19th century, it has a number of great things to see related to water.

Clayton: the Heart of the Thousand Islands Region

The small town of Clayton, mostly built in the 19th century, has beautiful historic buildings, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.

If you like boats, go to the Antique Boat Museum . This hidden gem has hundreds of boats on display inside and out. Included with admission, you can row a traditional St. Lawrence Skiff. For an extra fee, take a sightseeing boat tour in an antique wooden boat.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Boaters who go out on their own have to be careful not to stray into Canada. Even if you go by accident, you will face a heavy fine.

For a touch of grandeur, tour Boldt Castle on Heart Island. Several tour boat operators take you to the fabulous castle and grounds, which are accessible only by water. Be sure to look at the Boldt Yacht House, with its collection of antique boats and a gatekeeper’s cottage that tells the story of the building of the castle.

It’s a very sad story. George Boldt, the proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in NYC, bought Hart Island, which he renamed ‘Heart Island’ to honor his wife, Louise. Four years after the home was finished, Louise died suddenly and George never returned to his island.

You can also take a boat ride to tour Singer Castle on Dark Island. If being royalty is on your bucket list, you can stay in the royal suite at the castle and have the castle and island to yourself for the night.

More Things to Do in Upstate New York

• Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
• See the best waterfalls and national wonders in North America at Niagara Falls and ride on Maid of the Mist.
• Hike or drive through another natural wonder, Letchworth State Park , aka the Grand Canyon of the East
• Travel back to 19th century New York at the Genesee Country Village and Museum.
• Celebrate the cold at the annual Lake George Winter Carnival .
• See where the Olympics took place twice in the northeast in Lake Placid .
• Tour Saranac Brewery in Utica. Founded in the 19th century, Saranac has live music in its beer garden.
• Check out the LEGOLAND amusement park in the Hudson Valley. 
• Get wet year-round. The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark , the biggest waterpark in New York State, is in the Catskills.

Day trip ideas in Upstate NY: 40 fun places to visit

• Published: May. 04, 2017, 12:00 p.m.
• Alaina Potrikus | [email protected]

Photo: Sylvan Beach Amusement Park at dusk. Scott Schild | [email protected]

By Alaina Potrikus | Contributing writer

» Check out our updated list, now with 59 day trips

A day trip in Upstate New York  can lead to all kinds of adventures. Take a selfie with statues of women's rights legends Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. Chase waterfalls from Niagara to the gorges of Ithaca to Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks. Get wet at water parks in Canandaigua or Old Forge, and catch sunsets on Million Dollar Beach in Lake George or atop Mount Defiance at Fort Ticonderoga. Check out these ideas when planning your next day trip in Upstate New York.

Photo: Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Animal Adventure Park

Spend the day with  Upstate New York's most famous giraffe, April, and her new offspring. The  private zoo in Harpursville opens for the season on May 13, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is cash-only (with an ATM on site), and visitors can purchase food for various animal encounters (carrots for the camels and giraffes are $3, grapes for the monkeys and lemurs are $2). The park's other inhabitants include zebras, black bears, buffalo, pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, a mountain lion and Tibetan yak. The park is about a 15-minute drive from Binghamton; grab lunch at the  Main Street Grill and Bakery in nearby Afton, designed to mimic the pace and menus of eateries in New York City.

View this post on Instagram Recognize this kitchen?! Maybe if I posted it in B&W... It's the kitchen from I ❤️ Lucy! #tourlife #ilovelucy #jamestown A post shared by Rachel Brown (@rachelbrownmusic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 2:10pm PDT

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Hit the road for Jamestown, hometown of famed comedienne Lucille Ball. The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum is home to reproductions of the sets from the television show, "I Love Lucy," Ball's Emmy awards, props, costumes and rare memorabilia from the legendary 1950s comedy television show.  Look for the multi-story mural of the iconic Vitameatavegamin advertisement, as well as a depiction of the conveyor belt scene in the chocolate factory. In the nearby village of Celeron, visitors can take a selfie with a bronze statue of Ball made headlines in recent years. The original  "Scary Lucy" statue was replaced last summer with a more flattering sculpture, which shows Ball in a polka-dot dress. Also nearby: Southern Tier Brewing Company , which offers tours and tastings throughout the week (check their website for hours, which change seasonally).

Photo: Main Street in Beacon. Dominick Fiorille for NYup.com

For art, antiques and culinary delights, spend a day in Beacon, located on the Hudson River in Dutchess County. The  DIA art museum is located in the former Nabisco box factory and houses an impressive collection of large-scale contemporary exhibits. More galleries are scattered throughout downtown Beacon, along with antique and jewelry stores and farm-to-table restaurants and brewpubs. Grab lunch at the Dr. Who-themed restaurant,  The Pandorica , or bring home baked good from the Beacon Bread Company . For unique souveniers, visit Dream in Plastic, a quirky toy shop, or  Hudson Beach Glass, which features glass-blowing demonstrations and a sculpture gallery.

Photo: Scott Schild | [email protected]

Strong National Museum of Play

For a family-friendly day trip, head to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. Little kids will love the reproduction of  Sesame Street, where Big Bird overlooks the famous stoop at 123 Sesame Street. Kids of all ages — and adults too — will enjoy the Wegmans Super Kids Mart , with child-sized grocery carts, shelves filled with lifelike products and a working checkout station where pint-sized cashiers can scan their own bar-coded items. Parents will enjoy a stop at the Toy Halls of Fame , which includes classic toys from the past, from Etch-a-Sketch and G.I. Joe to Atari and Easy Bake Oven. Don't forget to stop by the  Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York, and take a ride on the restored 1918 carousel  and the Strong Express, an indoor locomotive. Have lunch at the Strong's cafeteria , with a la carte options including Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Subway, or have a sit-down meal at Bill Gray's Restaurant or at the vintage Skyliner Diner located in the museum's atrium.

Letchworth State Park

Heralded as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park boasts nearly 600-foot cliff walls and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. More than 66 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, as well as amenities for whitewater rafting and kayaking ,  seasonal hot balloon rides, horseback riding and biking. Be sure to check out Inspiration Falls, the state's tallest plunging waterfall with a total drop of over 350 feet. In the evening, visit the Charcoal Corral and Silver Lake Twin Drive-In Theater in nearby Perry, with an 18-hole mini-golf course, giant inflatables, weekly car cruise-ins, live music and outdoor double features on the weekend.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

The 9,800-acre site outside of Seneca Falls  is home to six active bald eagles nests, with observations of nearly 60 eagles in recent years. Take a one-mile hike along the Seneca Trail from the Visitor Center, or stay in your car for the 3.5-mile Wildlife Drive through the preserve. Binoculars are available for loan to help visitors see waterfowl, herons and other marsh birds, Canada geese, bald eagle, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey, and shorebirds. Other wildlife sightings include muskrat, white-tailed deer, mink, fox and coyote. Cap your visit with a trip to Montezuma Winery  in Seneca Falls, known for dry to sweet wines including riesling, blueberry, rhubarb and the most popular, Cranberry Bog. The winery is also home to Hidden Marsh Distillery , which produces brandy, whiskey and liqueurs from locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out the flagship Bee Vodka, handmade in small batches from New York honey.

Photo: Gary Walts | [email protected]

Sackets Harbor

Take a step back in history at the  Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site , where two crucial battles of the War of 1812 took place overlooking Lake Ontario. The site hosts numerous activities throughout the year, with living history reenactments, cannon and artillery demonstrations and other educational opportunities. Families will enjoy a side excursion to Old McDonald's Farm , where visitors can hand-feed beef cows and dairy goats, ride a pony and take a tour of the farm via tractor. For meals, head into the village for brick oven pizza at  Goodfellos or dinner or brunch in the courtyard of Tin Pan Galley . Try the 1812 Amber Ale or Thousand Islands Pale Ale at Sackets Harbor Brewing Company , and end your visit with a scoop from Saturdays, Sundaes & More , the village ice cream shop.

Lake Placid

The two-time home of the Olympic Games isn't just a winter destination. The  Lake Placid Olympic Center is open year-round; the complex houses the rink where the U.S. Hockey Team's Miracle on Ice took place in 1980. For an active visit, check out High Peaks Cyclery , which offers mountain bike, kayak, canoe and hiking gear rentals to explore the Adirondack Mountains year-round.  SUP Lake Placid rents stand-up paddle boards and kayaks on Mirror Lake, and hosts outdoor yoga classes. For an easy day hike, head to nearby Cascade Mountain , one of the easiest High Peaks to climb with a spectacular panoramic vista at the summit (4,098 feet). Take a break with a drink at Big Slide Brewery ,  Lake Placid Pub and Brewery or the Great Adirondack Brewing Company .

Photo: Stephen D. Cannerelli | [email protected]

Sterling Renaissance Festival

Spend a day in an authentic English Renaissance village, where a cast of royals, townspeople, thieves, beggars, artisans and craftspeople transport visitors to the realm of Warwick, England, in 1585. Daily activities at the 35-acre park include parades, jousts and duels, archery demonstrations, period music and dancing, and performances on 12 stages, including a "Wench auction." The  menu is fit for a royal feast, with turkey legs, steak-on-a-stake, mile high cakes and adult beverages including ale, wine and mead. Rent a period costume near the main entrance or purchase apparel, jewelry, headpieces, armor and weaponry at the Royal Marketplace.  Themed weekend celebrations include an Ale Fest, Highland Fling, Pirate Invasion and Fantasy, Fairies and the Future. Admission is $24.95 for adults, $12.95 for children; tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

The Finger Lakes  community of Corning offers a ton of activities for visitors of all ages. No trip to Corning is complete without a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass ; sign up ahead of time to make your own glass project with the help of experts, or stop into one of the group glassmaking demonstrations held throughout the day. Spend the rest of your day exploring the "Crystal City," starting at the Rockwell Museum , a Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring American artists. For lunch or dinner, head over to the Gaffer District , which has been  recognized by Bon Appetit as a notable destination for food along the Appalachian Trail. The area has grown to include over 45 restaurants and over 50 places to shop for unique items; end your day with a treat at the  Old World Cafe and Ice Cream shop, featuring a Victorian ice cream counter and old-fashioned homemade candies.

Photo: Joed Viera for NYup.com

Salamanca and the Enchanted Mountains

Known as the Enchanted Mountain  region for its picturesque scenery,  Allegany State Park offers sandy beaches, 18 different hiking trails and 5.6 miles of bike trails for outdoor adventures. Head to the Red House area of the park, where a Tudor-style administration building overlooks the lake and offers a restaurant with a full menu and patio seating . Step into the past at the Salamanca Rail Museum , a fully restored passenger depot that dates to the early 1900s. Try horseback riding at Crosspatch stables , which offers guided trail rides and Chuckwagon dinners. Before heading home, try your luck at  Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, with slot machines, table games, restaurants and other activities.

Photo: Robert Mescavage | Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain welcomes visitors year-round for outdoor activities and draws big crowds for music festivals, like the Taste of Country Music Festival  and Mountain Jam Fest . Take a scenic skyride to the 3,200-foot summit of Hunter Mountain, where you can see the high peaks of the northern Catskills, the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of Vermont. For a more adventurous ride, check out New York Zipline Adventure Tours , the longest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America featuring over five miles of ziplines, some reaching heights of nearly 600 feet above the ground. The Hunter Mountain resort also offers fly fishing , 4-by-4 off road adventures , hiking ,  golf and disc golf . Try a local brew at  Hunter Mountain Brewery, which offers a full lunch and dinner menu, outdoor dining and live music.

Photo: NYup.com archive

The home of the world-famous Boilermaker Road Race , the city of Utica has been growing its offerings for visitors in recent years. The Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute  is home to a permanent collection of 300 years of American painting, 19th-century decorative arts, European Modernism and Japanese prints. Tour the  Saranac brewing facility on Varick Street and try pints or flights in the 1888 Tavern tasting room. Kids will love the  Utica Zoo or the Utica Children's Museum , both small facilities that serve up big fun for all ages. For a culinary tour, be sure to try Utica's signature  chicken riggies (at the Chesterfield Restaurant ), Utica greens (a la Georgio's Village Cafe ) and  tomato pie (try Roma Sausage & Deli ) and halfmoon cookies for dessert (check out Holland Farms Bakery ).

View this post on Instagram It may not feel like spring yet, but the flowers are always blooming at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. #ILoveNY 📷: @markdanielharley A post shared by I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveny) on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:47pm PDT

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Built in 1900, the nearly  12-acre conservatory and surrounding formal gardens offers visitors a chance to experience the flora of the Florida Everglades, the Panama cloud forest, the American desert and the Asian rainforest. The centerpiece is the glass conservatory, modeled after the famous Crystal Palace in England. Be sure to visit the Palm Dome, a 67-foot-tall room filled with palms and tropical fruit trees. A new exhibit highlights aquatic gardens and the Asian rainforest, with a peaceful pond (and a family of koi fish), waterfall, moon gate and collection of orchids and bonsai. Kids will love the Wegmans Family Garden, where they can plant seeds, build sand castles, water the garden and take part in other activities. The outdoor gardens include a Peace Garden and Healing Garden.

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Start your day in the historic downtown business district, where flag-lined sidewalks connect visitors to the shops, restaurants and events that keep the community bustling with activity. Pack a picnic and head to Lakeland Park, located across from the Brae Loch Inn  at the intersection of Forman and Albany streets. The picturesque park includes a dock and diving board and sandy beach. Lifeguards are on duty from June to August; a public bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Take a drive to nearby Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall that dates back more than 10,000 years. A trail winds through the 194-acre park, which offers picnic areas and fishing. Or head to Stone Quarry Hill Art Park , a 104-acre property filled with outdoor sculptures nestled along four miles of trails. Kids will love Critz Farms , a year-round agritourism destination that offers U-pick fruit crops, a giant playground and barnyard petting area (Be sure to check out the gift shop for local treasures and  Harvest Moon Cidery and Winery for adult beverages). For dinner and drinks, wine lovers can head north of the village to  Owera Vineyards, with a tasting room overlooking Cazenovia Lake and brick oven serving up tasty flatbreads. For a local brew, head south of the village to Empire Farmstead Brewery , a new stop on the local brewery trail that features an outdoor dining space to enjoy flights and pints.

Windmill tours

Since the early 2000s, wind turbines have been popping up across Upstate New York. The  giant towers have drawn onlookers since the beginning, and several of the wind farms have installed visitors centers to allow interested tourists to get a closer look at the clean energy giants. At the FREE Center in Fenner , informational kiosks that outline the renewable energy efforts in Madison County are set up off of Bellinger Road. Visitors can picnic beside one of the towers, which weighs more than 187 tons and stands 212 feet from the ground to the center hub, and 329 feet from the ground to the tip of a blade at its full height.  Check out the full-size turbine blade on the ground to get a sense of the size and weight of the structures.  Maple Ridge Wind Farm , New York State's largest wind farm, is located in Lowville in Lewis County, with 195 turbines that produce enough electricity to power approximately 136,000 homes, about 2 percent of New York State's residential electricity need. Pull over at the  visitor's center kiosk on Eagle Factory Road off Route 177 for a panoramic view of the 21,000 acre site on the Tug Hill Plateau, about 75 miles northeast of Syracuse.

View this post on Instagram I love salad yes I do, I love salad how about you?🤗😂🥗🥒 #eatyourveggies #eatyourgreens A post shared by Victoria Tschopp (@victoriatschoppp) on Apr 27, 2017 at 9:50am PDT

Culinary Institute of America

For a taste of the Hudson Valley , head to Hyde Park, where a group of restaurants  run in conjunction with the Culinary Institute of America are serving up unique cuisine. There's  Ristorante Caterina deMedici for Italian lovers, the  Bocuse Restaurant for a French fine dining experience, and American Bounty Restaurant and Tavern , focusing on regional and seasonal products. Bring home a sweet treat from the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe, with baked goods and desserts like red velvet, carrot cake and pineapple upside down cake macarons, Nutella doughnut holes, lemon elderflower eclairs and classic apple pie. The restaurants are part of the educational experience for students at CIA, who spend time in both the front and back of the house to learn and master the full scope of restaurant operations under the guidance of expert chef-instructors.

Photo: Teri Weaver | syracuse.com

Skaneateles

The  Finger Lakes community draws visitors each year for the crystal clear waters of Skaneateles Lake and the quaint culture of the picturesque downtown. Take a cruise of the 16-mile-long lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers lunch cruises featuring Dinosaur BBQ, romantic dinner cruises and more family-friendly sightseeing cruises aboard a the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship. Explore the downtown shops, restaurants and galleries at your leisure, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape. Landmark restaurants include the Sherwood Inn , Doug's Fish Fry ,  The Krebs and Blue Water Grill . Enjoy an afternoon tasting at Anyela's Vineyard , which overlooks the village, or head to  Mirbeau Inn and Spa for a day of relaxation at the estate built to mimic the French landscapes of Claude Monet.

Photo: Kate Collins | [email protected]

Women's Rights National Historic Park

Step back in time in Seneca Falls  to learn about the efforts of women's rights leaders and other reformers in the 19th century. Start your day at visitor center to pick up maps and daily schedules — be sure to check out the life-size bronze statues of the women and men who organized the first Women's Rights Convention, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass. Head to the adjacent Wesleyan Chapel , where the convention was held in 1848, and follow the tour to the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton , which the famous suffragette called the "Center of the Rebellion." Be sure to stop by the National Women's Hall of Fame , which honors more than 250 women from Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. (Note: a new home for the hall and the Center for Great Women is under construction at the 1844 Seneca Knitting Mill ; for now, it remains at a historic bank building on Falls Street in the heart of downtown.)

Photo: Jeff Goulding for NYup.com

Mohonk Mountain House

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley , the Victorian castle resort built in 1869  has served as a getaway for the Rockefellers, Andrew Carnegie and five U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford B. Hayes, William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton.  Day guest packages  allow visitors to enjoy the amenities of the resort without spending the night.  Spa packages  include access to the eucalyptus steam room, sauna and outdoor heated mineral pool; reservations at any of the  award-winning restaurants comes with access to the resort and grounds for the day.  Day passes for hiking include access to 85 miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Take the three-mile hike to the Sky Top Tower, a 100-foot-tall stone building at the peak of the preserve with panoramic views of the Catskills, or enjoy the woodlands on horseback or by horse-drawn carriage . Tennis packages are available, along with tours of the historic house , greenhouse and Victorian gardens and afternoon tea and cookies. The other recreational activities at the resort include disc golf, rock climbing, boating, golf, mounting biking, archery and tomahawk throwing.

Photo: The Associated Press

Watkins Glen

For a fast-paced adventure, head to Watkins Glen International , where racing weekends feature sports car, endurance and stock car events. Visitors can experience the iconic racetrack themselves  by driving their own vehicle around the 3.4-mile Grand Prix circuit behind a pace car . After two laps, cars will have their photos taken the start/finish line. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival  also draws crowds to the site. Other Watkins Glen excursions: Farm Sanctuary , a 175-acre refuge for more than 500 rescue animals; Watkins Glen State Park , known for its gorge trail and 19 waterfalls; and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , with more than three dozen wineries and vineyards, plus a growing number of  breweries and distilleries .

Tupper Lake

Advertised as the "High Line of the Forest," the  Wild Walk  gives visitors a chance to walk among the trees on a trail of bridges at the  81-acre Adirondack campus . The park includes a four-story twig tree house, a spider's web-like net for climbing, and a nest that visitors can climb into to see the view from 42 feet in the air. While in Tupper Lake, stop by  Little Wolf Beach , one of the largest public beaches in the Adirondacks, with lifeguards watching over a floating dock with trampoline and rope swing. Or take in a movie at  Adirondack State Theater , which opened its doors in 1914.

Photo: Mike Lynch for NYup.com

Santa's Workshop

Guaranteed to delight young audiences year-round,  Santa's Workshop  near  Whiteface Mountain  has been an Adirondack tradition since 1949. The storybook village includes Santa's House, the reindeer barn, a bakery, candy shop, blacksmith and toy shop. Rides include a sleigh coaster, bobsled ride, Candy Cane Express train, ferris wheel and Christmas carousel. Summer hours at the park are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, from June 27 to Sept. 3. Autumn and winter hours vary.

Ausable Chasm

Billed as the  Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks , the sandstone gorge south of Plattsburgh offers spectacular views of primeval rock formations including Elephant's Head, Column Rock Hyde's Cave and Jacob's Well. The adventure center offers a variety of activities, from low-intensity hiking to more adventurous rock climbing, rappelling and cliff walks. Visitors can tube or raft down the Ausable River (bring water shoes), experiencing the towering cliffs, rapids and whirlpool basin. Fifteen miles of mountain biking trails for beginner and advanced riders wind through the Adirondack terrain.

Michael Franklin | UpstateAerialPhotography.com

Thousand Islands

Explore the  Thousand Islands  with a  boat tour , where seasoned guides share the stories of the more than 1,800 islands that cover 50 miles of the St. Lawrence River between New York and Canada. Set aside time to explore Heart Island, home of the six-story, 120-room  Boldt Castle  with an indoor pool, stunning grounds and panoramic views of the St. Lawrence. Weekend festivities take over downtown  Alexandria Bay  throughout the summer, with live entertainment for the whole family.

Photo courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga

Fort Ticonderoga

Located at the southern end of Lake Champlain, the  Fort Ticonderoga  facility recreates life in the mid-1700s with musket firing demonstrations each day at 11 a.m. and cannon firing demonstrations at 2 p.m. In addition to military history, have a picnic atop  Mount Defiance , where panoramic vistas include Lake Champlain and the High Peaks; reach the picnic pavilion by car or hike up the mountain trails once traversed by troops.  Rent a canoe  to explore the fort by water, or take a  boat tour  of the Ticonderoga Peninsula aboard the 49-passenger tour boat Carillon.

Photo courtesy of Enchanted Forest Water Safari

The fun never stops at  Enchanted Forest , the state's largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions. The water park includes relaxing tube rides to high speed slides, including the newest double-tube ride "The Silverback," a 100 foot drop into a large 40-foot-diameter bowl. Need a  break from the water park?   Take a six-mile paddling tour of the Moose River and return via the  Adirondack Scenic Railroad . For an aerial view of the High Peaks,  ride the scenic chairlift to the top of McCauley Mountain.

Photo: raddiec via flickr

Lake George

Nicknamed "Queen of the American Lakes,"  the resort town north of Albany  has been a favorite since the late 19th century, when John D. Rockefeller was a regular visitor. Spend the afternoon at  Million Dollar Beach at Lake George Beach State Park , named one of the best beaches for families for its cleanliness, public facilities and panoramic views of the lake and Adirondacks. Hop aboard the  Minnie-ha-ha , one of the last steam paddlewheel boats in America, for an hour-long cruise of the lake at sunset (or catch fireworks on Thursdays during the summer).

Saratoga Springs

Place a bet on the thoroughbreds at  Saratoga Race Course , the third oldest race course in America.  Races run six days a week,  and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drink for a picnic.  Walk through the downtown business district to  Congress Park , where you can take a ride on the  historic wooden carousel . Drive down the Avenue of the Pines to enter  Saratoga Spa State Park , where you can walk past the marble colonnades and reflecting pool of the spa complex. Grab tickets for a nighttime concert at the  Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

The shelter  cares for farm animals that were victims of cruelty and neglect, rescued from stockyards, auctions and slaughterhouses. Each of the sanctuary's animals has a name and a story, including Clyde, a chicken found on the streets of New York City; Harper and Atticus, a pair of goats whose mother was rescued from a downstate farm; and Elvis, rescued while awaiting sale to at a veal auction.  Expect to interact with the animals - some of the pigs enjoy belly rubs, and sheep are likely to nuzzle you as you walk through the pasture. Tours are given on weekends, and a cafe offers vegan food options.

Howe Caverns

The  underground limestone cavern  is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast and the second most visited natural attraction in New York State (after  Niagara Falls ). A 90-minute walking tour and boat ride takes visitors 156 feet below the ground to stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake millions of years in the making. Above ground, the  High Adventure Park  includes a zip line, ropes course, rock wall and the H20-GO Ball, a 12-foot inflatable ball that takes riders down a 1,000-foot hill.

Photo: Kathe Harrington for NYup.com

Chittenango

Get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and domestic animals that were hand-raised at  The Wild Animal Park . The stars of the park are a pair of giraffes — Jase and Jasmine — which visitors can hand feed from a new deck.  While you're in Chittenango , take a walk down the Yellow Brick sidewalk to the  All Things Oz museum , a tribute to the village's native son L. Frank Baum, author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Adults can stop at the  Yellow Brick Road Casino , which opened in May 2015. Or head up to  Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall.

Sylvan Beach

The vacation community on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake is perfectly sized for a day trip. Spend the afternoon at  Sylvan Beach Amusement Park , a throwback to the town's early resort days with a vintage Kiddieland with 10 rides for smaller guests, classic arcade games like Skeeball, the Galaxi steel roller coaster and bumper boats.There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone and stroll through the downtown district after catching the sunset on the beach.

Photo: Dennis Nett | [email protected]

Cooperstown

You can start at the  National Baseball Hall of Fame , but there is a lot more to do in this lakeside community.  Plan a side trip to the  Farmer's Museum  and ride the Empire State Carousel. Or walk the grounds of  Hyde Hall,  a 50-room mansion overlooking  Otsego Lake , and take a walk on the beach at  Glimmerglass State Park.  Enjoy a tasting at one of the six stops on the  Cooperstown Beverage Trail ;  Brewery Ommegang  offers a cafe menu of Belgian favorites (try the frites — handcut fries that are twice fried and served with dipping sauces).

Niagara Falls

Cross this one off your  bucket list : A trip to see one of the natural wonders of the world. Board the  Maid of the Mist boat tour  to get within soaking distance of Horseshoe Falls; for an even wetter experience, take the  Cave of the Winds  tour, where a poncho is required for the Hurricane Deck that brings visitors beneath Bridal Veil Falls.  End your day with fireworks,  which go off at 10 p.m. every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from May 1 to Oct. 31.

Ellicottville

Start your visit at Holiday Valley's  Aerial Park , a series of platforms, bridges and zip lines that create 13 different courses (the largest in New York State). Check out the climbing forest — a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall that is one of only three in the United States. Take a ride on the Mountain Coaster, a roller coaster ride down the terrain that includes curves, jumps and spirals. After an adventurous day, enjoy the  small-town charm of Ellicottville  and take home a sweet treat from  Watson's Chocolates , known for its sponge candy.

The 15.5-acre  Seneca Park Zoo  is the perfect size for children and adults alike. African lions prowl a savannah-like enclosure in the "A Step Into Africa" exhibit, which also is home to elephants and olive baboons. While in Rochester, try the city's signature dish at Nick Tahou Hots, home of the  "Garbage Plate,"  — where customers choose two selections of eggs, grilled cheese, fried ham, fried haddock, a cheeseburger, hamburger, red hot, white hot, Italian Sausage or chicken tender and two sides. And if you're on a budget, there are several  free things to do in Rochester .

Provided photo

Roseland Park

The 56-acre  Roseland Water Park  offers attractions for the entire family, from a splash pad for little kids, a lazy river for adults, a family raft ride that mimics whitewater rafting, a wave pool and high-intensity slides like the Cliff, which drops riders 65 feet at speeds of 30 mph. For a bigger rush, head over to the new  Roseland Wake Park,  the first full-sized cable wakeboarding park in the Northeast that pulls riders through a 2,100-foot continuous loop course on the lake that includes ramps and rails for tricks and stunts.

Photo: Lauren Long | [email protected]

Finger Lakes

Visit the  Women's Rights National Historical Park  and the  National Women's Hall of Fame  and take a selfie with statues of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott. Take a stroll through  Seneca Falls , the quaint community that is widely believed to be the inspiration for Frank Capra's holiday classic, " It's A Wonderful Life ." Plan to visit several of the wineries on the  Seneca Lake Wine Trail,  including Belhurst Castle in Geneva, where you can dine at outdoor tables overlooking the lake. Not up for a wine tour? Make time to shop at  Waterloo Premium Outlets  or spend several serene hours birdwatching at  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

With more than  150 waterfalls within 10 miles  of Ithaca, you don't have to go far for a spectacular view. Check out  Taughannock Falls State Park,  home to a 215-foot waterfall (three stories higher than Niagara Falls) and walk the gorge and rim trails.  Robert H. Treman State Park  offers public swimming at the stream-fed pool beneath Enfield Falls; nine miles of trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. After a day of hiking, enjoy the atmosphere at the newly renovated  Ithaca Commons,  a four-block pedestrian area with more than 100 shops, restaurants, street vendors and street entertainers.

Read more: Summer bucket list for Upstate NY

Have the best summer ever:  45 fun things you must do before fall .

Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 4/4/2023), Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement , and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 12/31/2023).

© 2024 Advance Local Media LLC. All rights reserved ( About Us ). The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Advance Local.

Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site.

YouTube’s privacy policy is available here and YouTube’s terms of service is available here .

• Meetings & Groups

Discover Albany Blog

• Downtown Hotels
• Hotels Near Universities
• Hotels Near the Airport

Show Less in: Hotels

• Albany Chefs' Food & Wine Festival
• NYS Writers Institute's Albany Film Festival
• Annual Albany Tulip Festival
• Lupine Fest
• Baseball Hall of Fame Induction Weekend
• Alive at Five
• Capital Pride Festival
• 4th of July Celebrations in Albany
• Albany Latin Fest
• Albany Riverfront Jazz Festival
• PearlPalooza
• Art on Lark
• NYS Writers Institute's Albany Book Festival
• Halloween & Haunted Events
• Holiday Celebrations
• Old Songs Music Festival
• Free Summer Event Series
• Team Sports
• Submit an Event
• Palace Theatre
• Artful Albany
• Itineraries
• Self-Guided Walking Tours
• Discover My Albany
• Black History and Culture
• Field Trips and School Groups
• Albany's All-Hallow E'en Festival
• Erie Canal Bicentennial
• Architecture
• New York State Capitol
• Albany Pine Bush
• Rivers and Lakes
• Special Offers

Show Less in: Things to Do

• Spirit of Albany
• Craft Beverage
• Dining by Type
• Restaurant Appreciation Month

Show Less in: Restaurants

• Regional Map
• Downtown Albany Map
• Wolf Road Map
• Downtown Albany Parking
• Capital District Transportation Authority
• Business & Community Services
• LGBTQ Resources
• Colleges & Universities
• City of Albany Neighborhoods
• Bethlehem, Coeymans and New Scotland
• Cohoes, Green Island and Watervliet
• Guilderland
• Berne, Knox, Westerlo and Rensselaerville
• Online Visitors Guide
• E-Newsletter
• Discover Albany App
• Lectures & Walking Tours
• Heritage Tourism
• Board of Directors
• Mission Statement
• Staff Directory
• Impact of Tourism on Albany County
• Privacy Policy
• Employment Opportunities
• Virtual Visitors Center

Show Less in: About

Leisure and travel blog.

• Back to Previous

5 Ideas for Outdoor Winter Day Trips in Albany County

Thursday, January 14, 2021 1:00 PM by Michelle Ancona

Bundle up and embrace the chill. Capital Region locals searching for outdoor winter day trips have a variety of options in Albany County. From snowshoeing, to outdoor exhibits, to winter hikes, to a self-guided walking tour podcast, Albany County has activities worth facing the cold weather. Scroll on for ideas for your next outdoor winter day trip in Albany, New York! 

PLAY SMART * PLAY SAFE * PLAY LOCAL campaign

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Steph B (@stephisme16)

Snowshoe at the Huyck Preserve 

Embark on a day trip to the Helderberg Hilltowns for a snowshoeing adventure at the Huyck Preserve ! During the snowy months, snowshoe on over 12 miles of trails meandering through a peaceful wooded forest and along a frozen Lake Myosotis. The Huyck Preserve Visitors' Center offers snowshoe rentals in youth and adult sizes on Monday to Thursday. Interested in cross-country skiing? While rentals are not available and trails are not specifically created for this winter activity, cross-country skiers can use the Race Track, Partridge Path, and Partridge Path Loop 3. If the weather does not cooperate with your plans for a snowy excursion, go on a winter hike! 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy (@mohawkhudsonland)

Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy's 22 Preserve Challenge

In 2021, the  Mohawk Hudson Land Conservancy  opened its 20th preserve, the Touhey Family Preserve  in Delmar. To celebrate, MHLC launched the 20 Preserve Challenge encouraging outdoor adventurers to visit all preserves to receive a limited-edition sticker. Since the launch of the challenge, MHLC acquired the Bender Melon Farm Preserve and the Noonan Preserve . Now visitors are encouraged to explore all 22 to complete the challenge! 

 From the Winn Preserve in Knox, to the Hollyhock Hollow Sanctuary in Selkirk, several of the preserves are great spots to explore during the winter months.  Wolf Creek Falls Preserve , tucked in the Helderberg Hilltowns, offers spectacular winter views of frozen waterfalls and streams. Before heading out, make sure to check MHLC's  trail conditions  page for updated information and tips! 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michelle Johnston (@mleajohnston)

Embark on a Winter Adventure at John Boyd Thacher State Park

John Boyd Thacher State Park is a winter day trip destination for adventure seekers. Throughout the frosty months, explorers can cross-country ski, snowshoe, hike, mountain bike and snowmobile on designated trails through snow-covered forests and past icy waterfalls. Thompson's Lake , conveniently nestled within Thacher Park, is a must-visit spot for ice fishing. Nearby, the Emma Treadwell Thacher Nature Center  offers snowshoe rentals, subject to availability. 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Victoria Gellatly (@victoria.adventures)

Explore the Albany Pine Bush Preserve

Brave the cold temperatures for a day trip to the Albany Pine Bush Preserve .  If it is a snowy day, the preserve's gently rolling sand-dunes create slopes that are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. If your day trip falls on a not-so-snowy day, the preserve has over 20 miles of multi-use trails for a winter hike among the pine barrens. It is a serene spot to connect with nature in the heart of Albany County! 

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Downtown Albany (@downtownalbany)

Tour Downtown Albany with the Artful Albany Podcast

Grab your hat and gloves and explore the streets of downtown Albany with the Artful Albany podcast . Each podcast episode is a self-guided walking tour that explores Albany's 400 year-old history and the #CapitalWalls mural projects. You'll hear from some of the artists behind the murals and brush up on your historical fun facts about downtown Albany. 

The Artful Albany podcast is presented by Discover Albany, Downtown Albany BID and Albany Center Gallery .

Author: Michelle Ancona

Michelle Ancona is the Content Marketing Manager for Discover Albany. She grew up in Boise, Idaho and moved to the East Coast to attend Marist College. After working at several PR agencies, she joined Discover Albany to follow her passion of showcasing all the wonderful events, experiences and attractions that New York's Capital City has to offer travelers and locals alike!

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

Winter Arts Fest 2024 | The Albany Distilling Company Bar and Bottle Shop, Livingston Avenue, Albany, NY, USA

Mark your calendars for Winter Arts Fest 2024 in Albany! On Saturday, March 9, from noon to 6:00 p.m., Downtown Albany will be the place to be. The Albany Distilling Company Bar and Bottle Shop on Livingston Avenue will be hosting this exciting event, brought to you by Albany Center Gallery and Albany Distilling Company. Winter Arts Fest 2024 is more than just a party—it's a fundraiser for Albany Center Gallery, a local arts non-profit. Immerse yourself in the world of art with live art demonstrations and installations curated by Albany Center Gallery. DJ Intell Hayesfield will be providing the tunes, creating the perfect atmosphere for you to chill and enjoy great eats and drinks. This indoor and outdoor arts festival will take place rain, snow, or shine, so dress appropriately! This family-friendly event is open to all ages and offers a full day of excitement. Your admission fee includes entrance to the event and a welcome cocktail for those 21 and over. Most importantly, by attending Winter Arts Fest 2024, you will be supporting the arts in Albany. Make sure to get your advance tickets now for $0 - $27.45, depending on age. Tickets will also be available at the door for $30. Stay updated on the event details, including the lineup of live artists and vendors, by following Winter Arts Fest 2024 on social media. Albany Center Gallery is dedicated to promoting and exhibiting art from emerging and established artists in the region, while the Albany Distilling Company is known for its award-winning spirits. Come together and chill with the arts at Winter Arts Fest 2024 in Albany!

Provided by Zefira | Published Mar 25, 2024

Are you interested in Winter Arts Fest 2024?

Recommended products for winter arts fest 2024 | the albany distilling company bar and bottle shop, livingston avenue, albany, ny, usa, cosy corner sea view apartments, more contents about albany.

• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy and Cookies
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List My Property
• Become a Supplier