Wintertime in New York City is simply magical, especially around the holiday season. The city is decorated with dazzling light installations, shopping centers boast beautiful Christmas trees, and many events are going on. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are a lot of amazing destinations nearby to go.
Together, we will discover the 7 best places in New York State to enjoy popular winter activities, such as skiing, ice skating, hiking, and getting last-minute gifts at Christmas markets. So read on to find out what they are.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a stunner, and not just in spring and summer. Take a view from the Observation Deck and enjoy a beautiful display of icicles framing the falls’ edges. They are even prettier at night when illuminated.
After the illumination, you can cozy up in one of the bars and taste local ice wine – a very sweet wine produced in Canada or New York State from frozen grapes. Yum!
Syracuse
With more than 100 inches of snowfall annually, Syracuse wears the crown of the snowiest city in the U.S. And it embraces winter like no other place in New York State.
Come and skate at Clinton Square Ice Rink, drive through the iconic Lights on the Lake, or celebrate winter at the yearly Winterfest with the area’s food, cocktails, ice sculptures, treasure hunt, and more. About 30 minutes south of the city, you will also find excellent skiing options.
Lake Placid
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid in winter is a must. It hosted two Winter Olympic Games, in 1932 and 1980. Today, you can try the trails where athletes competed.
Take a bobsled or cross-country skis and follow their footsteps. You can also skate on the 1980 Olympic Speed Skating Oval. Just make sure you book in advance. And if you decide to stay overnight, there are many cozy resorts with spa amenities around.
Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley is a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. Whether you prefer skiing, ice skating, tubing, or something more off the beaten path, such as rock climbing, or alpaca walks, there is something for everyone.
Are you looking for some family fun? Don’t miss the famous Gingerbread Competition. The display of gingerbread steamships, robots, dinosaurs, and fairytale houses will please both children and adults. But be careful, they’re not to munch on.
Letchworth State Park
While winter might not seem like the ideal season for exploring the great outdoors, Letchworth State Park is proof that the opposite is true. Explore the 60 miles of trails on snow shoes or skis. You can also engage in snow tubing, snowmobiling, and even ice fishing. For a lifetime experience, there are helicopter tours available, too.
Hunter Mountain
Are you a passionate snowboarder or skier? Head to Hunter Mountain. It offers 320 acres of snowy slopes suitable for both beginners and pros plus there is a tubing park with lifts. All that makes it a great choice for families with children.
After you’re done hitting the slopes, there are numerous bars and restaurants to enjoy the good old après ski.
Saranac Lake
Situated not far from Lake Placid, Saranac Lake is a cute winter village perfect for relaxing. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding are popular activities there. Saranac Lake is also home to several craft breweries worth a stop and a few pints.
In February, it comes alive during the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival featuring a huge ice castle, exciting performances, and spectacular fireworks.