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Category - Long Island

New Year's Eve fireworks over Manhattan

It’s time to celebrate New Year’s in New York State! Welcome 2025 with a First Day hike at a state park or trail, explore a wildlife refuge, or drive through an amazing light display. Want to stay home while you toast to the new year? Enjoy virtual ball drops, and home-based family-friendly activities courtesy of New York attractions. 

Massive Christmas tree covered in hand-blown glass ornaments in Centerway Square in Corning

New York State is full of charming towns that will have you feeling like you’ve stepped into a Hallmark movie. Have a holly jolly time as you take an enchanting ride in a vintage train car on the

Letchworth State Park

What activity will get your heart rate up while offering stunning views and tranquil moments to whisk you away from life's daily pressures? Winter hiking in New York!

An elegant clawfoot tub tucked against a window with a wintry scene of the Catskills at Urban Cowboy
Credit: @littlesherpatravels on Instagram

Whether you’re looking to enjoy the finer things in life or celebrate a special occasion, a luxurious winter getaway is waiting for you in New York State. From a mountaintop castle resort overlooking the Hudson Valley to a high-end suite in the city that never sleeps to a boutique mountain lodge tucked in the Catskills forests, find your perfect winter luxury experience in surprising and stunning settings in New York State.  

Windham Mountain

When you only see snow on your commute to and from work, of course, winter can feel like a drag. But when you actually escape the bustle of the city for a cozy getaway weekend? Suddenly the fluffy white snow and crystal icicles are like pure magic. No matter what you’re looking for, whether it's skiing, small-town vibes, big-city excitement, or R&R at a resort, we’ve got a trip that’s just right—and less than a three-hour drive from NYC. 

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).

Glowing yellow lights decorate trees

As the days grow shorter with winter's approach, the night skies are getting brighter with holiday cheer across New York State! So put on your favorite sweater and have your hot chocolate at the ready, because you won’t want to miss these magical winter lights festivals, holiday light spectaculars, and dazzling drive-thru experiences.

A man and child ride a coaster on rails through the snow

Get outside and experience a fun outdoor winter activity in New York and you’ll understand why this is a favorite season. Things to do in winter include captivating hikes, exhilarating mountain coaster rides, walks to visit frozen waterfalls or fountains, strolls through sculpture gardens, and a range of sports and activities for those in search of relaxation or an adrenaline rush. Whether you’re setting out for another ski trip or trying an exciting new adventure for the first time, New York has you covered! 

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.

Aerial view of the Bear Mountain Bridge in the snow

From the snowy shores of Lake George to the frozen falls of the Finger Lakes to the spectacular cityscapes of New York City, all corners of the Empire State transform into a winter wonderland.