Winter in New York City is simply magical, especially around the holidays. The city is decorated with dazzling light installations, shopping centers have beautiful Christmas trees and many events take place there. But if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are many great destinations nearby to go to.
Together we discover the 7 best places in New York State to enjoy popular winter activities like skiing, 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 the spring and summer. Take in the views from the observation deck and enjoy a beautiful display of icicles framing the edges of the falls. They are even more beautiful in the evening illuminated.
After the lighting, relax 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 12 inches of snowfall annually, Syracuse wears the crown of snowiest city in the US. And it embraces winter like no other place in New York State.
Come skate at Clinton Square Ice Rink, ride through the iconic Lights on the lakeor celebrate winter at the annual Winterfest with local food, cocktails, ice sculptures, scavenger hunts and more. About 30 minutes south of the city you will also find excellent skiing.
Lake Placid
Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is a must-see in the winter. It hosted two Winter Olympics, in 1932 and 1980. Today you can try out the routes in which athletes took part.
Take a bobsled or cross-country skis and follow their footsteps. You can also skate on the 1980 Olympic speed skating oval. Make sure you book in advance. And if you decide to stay overnight, there are many cozy resorts with spa facilities nearby.
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 one Gingerbread Competition. The exhibition of gingerbread steamships, robots, dinosaurs and fairy houses will please both children and adults. But be careful, they are not to be enjoyed.
Letchworth State Park
While winter may not seem like the ideal season to explore the outdoors, Letchworth State Park is proof that the opposite is true. Explore the 60 miles of trails on snowshoes or skis. You can also participate in snow tubing, snowmobiling and even ice fishing. For a lifetime experience, helicopter flights are also available.
Hunter mountain
Are you a passionate snowboarder or skier? Go to Hunter Mountain. It offers 320 hectares of snow-covered slopes suitable for beginners and professionals alike, plus there is a tubing park with lifts. All that makes it an excellent choice for families with children.
After you’ve finished skiing, there are numerous bars and restaurants where you can enjoy good old après-ski.
Saranac Lake
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Located 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.
It comes to life in February during the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival with a huge ice castle, exciting performances and spectacular fireworks.
