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Category - Outdoors

Aerial view of shops and a church in Lake Placid covered in snow with the Adirondack Mountains in the distance

Home to unforgettable Olympic history, a main street fit for a Hallmark movie, and epic winter adventures, there’s snow place like Lake Placid! While this postcard-perfect village in the Adirondacks promises year-round wonder, winter here is magical, when snow decorates the streets and cozy fireplaces crackle. Explore the sites that hosted the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympic Games, ski down the greatest vertical east of the Rockies, indulge in a diverse dining and craft beverage scene, and so much more. Here’s your guide to spending a winter weekend in Lake Placid. 

A person watches the sunrise from Artists Rock at North-South Campground

Now is the perfect time to make 2025 resolutions and new year goals for renewal and self-discovery.

A person dressed in a polar bear costume stands in the ocean water in Coney Island during the New Year's polar plunge

Say hello to 2025 in style in New York State by warming up with a variety of fun, exciting, and delicious events! Whether you want to take in a two-for-one show on Broadway, groove to the smooth

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

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!

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! 

Sprawling view of the Adirondack Mountains covered in bright orange and green foliage  from the top of Owl Head Lookout

Fall in New York is like nowhere else! Each year, visitors from all over the world come to see the vibrant red, orange, and yellow hues that transform the state into a beautiful autumn mosaic. Whether you’ve already crossed foliage hotspots off your fall bucket list or you’re just looking for something a little off the beaten path, there’s something for everyone.

Colorful foliage dons the trees surrounding a cascading waterfall at the Thain Family Forest at New York Botanical Garden

It’s easy to think of New York City as a concrete jungle, but this region of New York State has many green spaces across its five boroughs that become embellished with colorful fall plumage. The same can be said for Long Island. While its beaches make this a hot summer getaway destination, Long Island gets its fair share of fall foliage across its parks, arboretums, and other public spots. Here is your guide for where to wander amid the leaves and trees across New York City and Long Island. 

Mine Kill Falls frozen during winter

New York is dotted with waterfalls that are lovely (and highly Insta-worthy) any time of year. But there’s something extra special about these natural wonders in winter. The frozen water and mist look truly spectacular ​and there are fewer folks competing with you for the perfect shot. Here are just a few of New York’s most picturesque waterfalls that will be putting on quite a show for the next few months. Now get out there and start taking your own pics—​and don’t forget to share your shots with us using #iSpyNY and #NYLovesWinter!

Road winding along the river surrounded by fall foliage

Winter in New York State is truly a sight to see, but autumn isn’t over just yet! If you’re not quite ready to give up all the wonders of fall, don’t fret. From last-minute leaf-peeping adventures and scenic autumn drives to warm apple cider donuts and seasonal brews, be sure to cross these activities off your fall to-do list before winter arrives.