NEWSLETTER
Throughout New York State, towns, cities, and villages radiate with warmth and cheer during the winter months. Postcard-perfect main streets sparkle under blankets of snow, city skylines dazzle with holiday light displays, and lakeside villages transform into enchanting winter retreats. From festive markets and world-class dining to cozy inns and exhilarating outdoor adventures, these charming destinations embrace the magic of the season, offering frosty fun at every turn.
Lake Placid (Adirondacks)
A snow globe of winter magic awaits in Lake Placid, nestled in the heart of the Adirondacks. This lively town is a dream destination for winter sports enthusiasts and arctic adventurers alike. Hit the slopes at Whiteface Mountain, glide across the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, or skate at one of the three historic rinks inside the Olympic Center, where you’ll also be immersed in exhibits of Olympic glory. Travel by paws on a legendary dog sled ride across the shimmering Mirror Lake or explore miles of scenic trails on snowshoes against the background of the high peaks. Soar to new heights at the Olympic Jumping Complex and feel the thrill of winter competitions and recreation all season long, including the Freestyle Aerials World Cup (January 18-19), Ski Jumping World Cup (February 7-9), Bobsled & Skeleton World Championship (March 6-16), Empire State Winter Games (January 30-February 2), and Adirondack Winter Pride ski weekend (March 7-9).
Lake Placid’s Main Street radiates winter wonderland cheer, with twinkling lights, festive decor, and an array of charming shops, eateries, and inns. Warm up at any time with craft ales, hearty pub fare, and cozy vibes, at the Lake Placid Pub & Brewery, hailed by Skiing magazine as a top-quality brewpub. Or sip your way through 15 gourmet hot cocoa flavors and assorted homemade confections at Emma's.
Just a half-hour from Lake Placid is the Wild Center and Wild Walk, offering enchanting experiences, from treetop trails with whimsical features like a human-sized bird nest to interactive exhibits like Forest Music and Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork. Through February 22 the center glows with Wild Lights, creating an illuminated winter wonderland.
Ellicottville (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Venture to Ellicottville, a vibrant winter destination known for its lively atmosphere and thrilling activities. Shred some fresh powder on a ski getaway to Holiday Valley or HoliMont. Partake in a unique adventure on the Holiday Valley Mountain Coaster, a thrilling ride that pulls you up 283 feet before sending you zooming down a winding track.
The beloved Ellicottville Brewing Company has been proudly “Brewed to Entertain” since 1995, making it the go-to gathering spot for good times, great brews, mouth-watering grub, and cozy vibes.
For a more serene escape, recharge at Ellicottville Salt Cave, western New York’s first authentic Himalayan salt cave. This intimate oasis features salt-lined floors, walls, and ceilings, creating a tranquil atmosphere where you can lounge in gravity chairs or relax on the salt floor while breathing in the therapeutic salt air.
Take a joyride less than an hour away, where the National Comedy Center promises side-splitting laughs to beat the winter blues, while the Lucy-Desi Museum celebrates the timeless humor and legacy of Lucille Ball.
Ellicottville keeps the energy high all season long with a calendar packed with festive events, including the Winter Blues Weekend (January 17-19), Winter Music Jam (February 22-23), and Mardi Gras Weekend (March 8-9).
Lake George (Adirondacks)
Lake George isn’t just for summer; winter in this charming and vibrant village draws visitors from around the globe! Join us on Winter Carnival weekends (February), Funky Ice Fest (January 24-February 1), and the Sagamore Resort’s Glacier Ice Bar (January 24, 25, 31, and February 1).
When the lake freezes over, adventure is abundant. Snowmobile or snowshoe across its 32 miles of natural beauty, or try your hand at ice fishing. Just 15 minutes away, West Mountain offers skiing and a fun-filled tubing park, while Gore Mountain, New York’s largest ski resort, is only 30 minutes from town, promising thrilling runs and lively après-ski vibes.
For a sweet escape, visit Barkeater Chocolates, a haven of world-class confections where you can take chocolate-making classes or go on a haunted factory tour. March brings Thurman Maple Days, one of New York’s largest maple festivals, celebrating the region’s sweetest tradition.
Cheer on the Adirondack Thunder hockey team at Cool Insuring Arena in nearby Glens Falls, a city full of charm, arts, and a bustling dining and shopping scene.
Prefer to stay warm indoors? Drink and dine in style in heated outdoor igloos at spectacular spots like The Queensbury Hotel, The Inn at Erlowest, The Barrel, or Bolton Landing Brewing Company. For more cozy fun, create custom candles at WAXnWix or enjoy wine tastings and events at the Adirondack Winery, including trivia and game nights, dueling pianos, and live music.
Manhattan (New York City)
There’s no place quite like New York City in the winter. As snow covers the streets, iconic landmarks, and skyline, neighborhoods, and shops add to the magic with extraordinary light displays. At Rockefeller Center, you can glide across the famous ice rink, surrounded by quintessential city views, or take in the unparalleled panorama from the heights of Top of the Rock. Just a short stroll away, the Bryant Park Winter Village offers a movie-like ice skating experience of its own, surrounded by pop-up shops, and Instagrammable tasty treats.
Broadway always delights with unforgettable shows, while Lincoln Center hosts world-class cultural performances, and Comedy Cellar keeps the laughter going all night long.
Trek to the Bronx for the Holiday Train Show (through January 20) at the New York Botanical Garden. Engage your senses at Manhattan's Mercer Labs, where fifteen experimental exhibition spaces, interactive experiences, one-of-a-kind auditory encounters, and immersive installations reimagine the dynamic relationship between art and technology.
Score some fun when you root for the home teams this winter. Catch the Brooklyn Nets at the Barclays Center or the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, and stick around for a New York Rangers game on the ice at Madison Square Garden.
Syracuse (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @aidenmedia on Instagram
Syracuse thrives in winter, offering a lively mix of arts, culture, outdoor adventures, sports, and festive activities. Explore engaging exhibits at the Everson Museum of Art or delve into science and innovation at MOST, featuring fossils, planetarium shows, and interactive science exhibits. For a roaring good time, visit the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, home to more than 700 animals representing 216 different species, from tiny poison dart frogs to 8,000-pound Asian elephants.
Hit the ice at Clinton Square Ice Rink in the heart of downtown surrounded by the city skyline. Snowshoe scenic trails at Highland Forest, or hit the slopes at nearby Song Mountain. Cheer on the Syracuse Orange at the Dome for an unforgettable basketball game, or shop, dine and play at DestinyUSA, home to WonderWorks amusement park and the world’s largest suspended indoor ropes course.
Don't miss Lights on the Lake (through January 13), a two-mile sparkling holiday display at Onondaga Lake Park, or embrace the excitement of Syracuse Winterfest (February 13-23) with human dog sled races, fireworks, wing walks, ice carving, trivia, cook-offs, treasure hunts, cocktail mix-offs, and more!
Skaneateles (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @mirbeauinnspa on Instagram
Winter in Skaneateles is a scene straight out of a storybook. In late January, Winterfest takes the village by storm, featuring ice carving demonstrations, dozens of ice sculptures on display, food tastings, and a polar plunge into the lake. Stroll along Genesee Street, lined with boutique shops and cozy cafes, and enjoy views of the shimmering Skaneateles Lake. Foodies will love Rosalie’s Cucina, known for its Italian-inspired dishes, and the farm-to-table dishes at The Sherwood Inn, a historic gem with cozy fireplaces. Satisfy your sweet tooth with scratch-made donuts and hot cocoa from Skaneateles Bakery. Anyela’s Vineyards offers tastings of local wines in a serene vineyard setting. Brew enthusiasts will want to taste the 12 beers on tap at Skaneateles Brewery. For a touch of luxury, unwind at the 12,000-square-foot, French-inspired world-class Mirbeau Inn & Spa, where you can enjoy soothing spa treatments or relax by a crackling fireplace.
East Aurora (Greater Niagara)
Head to East Aurora this winter, an inviting village just outside Buffalo. Browse unique finds at Vidler's 5 & 10, a nostalgic shop stocked with 75,000 unique items. Catch a classic film at the vintage Aurora Theater or skate across the ice at The Classic Rink. For a truly unique experience, cozy up in an igloo while dining and drinking at Rick's on Main.
Just 20 minutes outside of East Aurora you can shred the slopes at Kissing Bridge, offering 39 slopes spread out over 700 acres, with over 20 miles of trails for skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and more.
Just a quick 20-minute drive from East Aurora, Kissing Bridge offers an exhilarating winter escape with 39 slopes spanning 700 scenic acres. Carve down the mountain's 20+ miles of trails, or enjoy the serenity of snowshoeing.
Breathe in the crisp winter air as you explore 633 acres of scenic trails at Knox Farm State Park, where you can snowshoe, cross-country ski, or even horseback ride.
While you're here, don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the region's sports culture. Catch a Buffalo Bills game in nearby Orchard Park or cheer on the Buffalo Sabres as they hit the ice at the KeyBank Center along the shores of Lake Erie.
Rhinebeck (Hudson Valley)
Credit: @claudiaw0912 on Instagram
Rhinebeck in the wintertime feels like a scene from a Hallmark movie… because it is! Dating back to 1688, this historic gem is one of New York’s earliest towns, yet it remains vibrant and inviting year-round. The charming town’s tree-lined sidewalks sparkle with holiday lights, creating a magical atmosphere as you explore Market and Mill Streets. Browse the locally-owned shops and restaurants, stopping by Samuel's Sweet Shop for their legendary hot chocolate and sweet confections, and Oblong Books to pick up the perfect cozy read. For some of the best antiquing in the state, stop in at the Beekman Arms Antique Market, set in a historic two-story barn, and pick up a unique souvenir.
Indulge in relaxation or a meal at the historic Beekman Arms, America’s oldest inn, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating day at Mirbeau Inn & Spa. Just a few minutes outside of Rhinebeck you can take a snowy and scenic stroll through Poet’s Walk Park (pictured), an intricately designed landscape celebrating the connection between landscape and poetry, offering spectacular views of the Hudson River and Hudson Bridge. Or climb to the top of a fire tower and take in sweeping views of the Hudson Valley at Ferncliff Forest. For more arts and culture, enjoy a show at the Center for Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, where productions this winter include A Christmas Carol. Shrek The Musical, and Grease.
Saratoga Springs (Capital-Region)
With one of the highest concentrations of restaurants per capita in the country, Saratoga Springs thrives year-round, exuding extra cheer in the winter! Broadway, the heart of the city, sparkles with seasonal decor and offers a mile of top-tier dining, lively bars, unique boutiques, and nods to the city’s horse racing heritage. Spend a day exploring Broadway’s shops including Saratoga Tea & Honey, or stock up on one-of-a-kind souvenirs at Impressions. For an unforgettable fine dining experience in intimate yet vibrant settings, book a table at 15 Church, Osteria Danny, or The Coat Room. Indulge in libations at the upscale Morrissey’s Lounge in the historic Adelphi Hotel. Step outside to Congress Park, where you’ll find tranquility in nature, ducks waddling around the pond, sculptures, fountains, and a carousel, making it a prime spot for scenic snowshoeing!
A visit to Saratoga Spa State Park is a winter must, where you can sip from the famed mineral springs, glide along cross-country skiing trails, or explore snowy pathways winding past geysers and snow-laden trees. Nearby, immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant arts and culture scene at the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, Saratoga Automobile Museum, and the Tang Teaching Museum.
Winter ushers in Saratoga’s most beloved tradition, Chowderfest (February 8)! Now in its 26th year, this culinary celebration brings over 40,000 visitors together to savor creative chowders from 80 local restaurants while enjoying festive winter activities throughout the town.
Cooperstown (Central New York)
Credit: @breweryommegang on Instagram
Nicknamed “America’s Hometown,” Cooperstown radiates seasonal charm with an array of attractions for everyone to enjoy. Sports enthusiasts can embrace the spirit of the game year-round at the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Stroll down Main Street, lined with shops and eateries offering everything from baseball memorabilia to local treasures. Glimmerglass State Park invites outdoor enthusiasts to wander snow-dusted trails, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, all set against the backdrop of Otsego Lake.
Brewery Ommegang, situated on a picturesque 136-acre farmstead, is a hotspot for craft beer lovers. Its Tap House has a 20-tap bar, a 10-tap tasting room, and a brewery story also on-site. Weekly events keep the party going all winter longer, including guided tastings, trivia, brunch bingo, and Rhythm and Brews.
Celebrate the 50th Cooperstown Winter Carnival, a milestone that cements its place as one of the longest-running winter celebrations in the state. To honor this legacy, the Carnival brings back a crowd favorite: sled dogs pulling their sleds across pristine white snow—a quintessential winter experience. Adding to the festivities, Brewery Ommegang joins the schedule with exciting events, including the Carnival Opener and a lively beer sled race, there will also be a book sale, ice sculpting, pickleball, geocaching, pancake breakfasts, farm tours, scavenger hunts, winter walks and ice skating, tailgate parties and more!
Celebrate the 57th Cooperstown Winter Carnival (January 31-February 2), a landmark event that solidifies its status as one of New York State's most enduring winter traditions. This year’s festivities include sled dogs gliding over pristine snow, fireworks, movie nights, wine tastings, ice sculpting, pickleball, geocaching, farm tours, scavenger hunts, winter walks, ice skating, tailgate parties, and so much more. It's the ultimate winter celebration for all ages!
Share your New York State adventures with us on Instagram and Twitter with #iSpyNY and tag us on Facebook!