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Massive Christmas tree covered in hand-blown glass ornaments in Centerway Square in Corning
Credit: @roddypittman on Instagram

New York State is full of charming towns that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped onto the set of a Hallmark holiday movie. Have a holly jolly time as you take an enchanting ride in a vintage train car on the Polar Express, explore Santa’s Workshop, step back in time

People ice skating at the Empire State Plaza ice rink

New York doesn’t go into hibernation during wintertime. As temperatures drop and snow falls, the Empire State transforms into a glistening winter wonderland with loads of fun to be had both indoors and out.

The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and surrounding buildings at night

New York serves as the setting for many of the most memorable holiday movies and TV show episodes ever made. Seeing the sparkling lights of the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree or watching the New Year’s Eve ball drop in Times Square is inspiring on screen, especially when it’s not possible to see these iconic symbols in person. Fortunately, these and other New York holiday traditions are available anytime and anywhere, thanks to these movies and TV shows that will get you in a festive mood while allowing you to experience New York-style holiday spirit. Let a classic scene from one of these gems inspire a future holiday season trip to New York State! 

The Statue of Liberty and other landmarks made of plant material at the New York Botanical Garden Holiday Train Show
Credit: @eulises74 on Instagram

It’s going to be a festive December in New York State, with a variety of activities and events to get you into the holiday spirit. Travel back to the Gilded Age in the Hudson Valley, immerse yourself in two new winter wonderland experiences in Lake George, celebrate a classic holiday movie in Seneca Falls, be amazed by a dazzling light show on Long Island, and more!

Polar Express

Embark on an enchanting journey into winter wonderlands with a fun holiday train ride! From the snow-covered mountains of the Catskills to the sparkling shores of Long Island, climb aboard a real

A group of people walking along the snow in front of Bristol Mountain ski resort in the evening. Purple lights are reflected on the snow, large pine trees and glowing lights can be seen from inside the glass walls of the resort.

Ski season is getting underway! Whether you're a city dweller or a nature lover, beginner or pro, New York State has a ski area perfect for you. In addition to challenging high peaks, scenic trails,

Snow covered pine trees and trails seen from up high on Whiteface mountain
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

Blue airplane with U.S. Navy yellow lettering suspended inside the Cradle of Aviation Museum

Credit: @vtom61 on Instagram

From Manhattan to Niagara Falls, history comes to life at aviation museums throughout New York State. With one of the greatest aircraft collections in the nation, New

Copy of Beautiful Destinations - Windham Mountain - Catskills - Winter - Photo by Beautiful Destinations

Winter holidays mean hanging out, watching games on TV, eating big meals—all fantastic options. But sometimes after all the lounging you’re needing a new adventure. The good news is New York State offers a wide range of affordable wintertime escapes. Read on for amazing trips to give you plenty of memories for the family scrapbook (or Instagram feed). 

Children picking apples in New York State

The apple is the official fruit of New York State, and there are more than 40 different varieties and approximately 600 producers in the Empire State. As fall foliage season gets underway, plan a scenic drive to your nearest orchard to wander through apple-scented countrysides, pick your own bagful, and enjoy warm cider doughnuts, pressed apple cider, and freshly baked pies!