If you're looking for fun winter activities in New York, the Catskills and upstate areas offer a scenic escape. From skiing to cozy stays at spots like Winter Clove Inn and Resort, there's something for everyone. This resort has it all: old school charm, meals included, an indoor pool plus more!
Just 2.5 hours from NYC makes it perfect for quick trips. Enjoy local craft beer and tasty food as you kick off your getaway right away. Whether on the slopes or not, these top picks will make your winter experience unforgettable.
Pack your bags for a magical winter trip to the Catskills, just 2.5 hours from New York City. Stay at Winter Clove Inn and Resort, where warmth and hospitality greet you with three meals daily, an indoor pool, and more. Kick-off your getaway with craft beer and fine food at Rip van Winkle Brewing Company in Catskill, NY.
Next up is settling into the cozy resort before relaxing in their tavern-style lounge. Start Saturday with hearty breakfast options like pancakes or eggs made fresh to order using local maple syrup right on property grounds! Spend your day exploring nearby town charms of Saugerties or Woodstock—perfect for gift hunting or enjoying a cup of coffee amidst antique shops and galleries.
For those seeking adventure without skis; Windham Mountain offers thrilling snow tubing while Hunter Mountain boasts extreme zip-lining over staggering heights! In essence: Experience something beyond skiing—a blend of relaxation inside historic resorts combined New York Winter Activities with adventurous outings available throughout Upstate New York's mountainous landscape during winters.
For a ski trip in Upstate New York, check out these spots. HoliMont Ski Club in Ellicottville is huge for families and groups. It's private on weekends so it’s not too crowded.
They have everything from gear rentals to lessons and events. Next, Belleayre Mountain Ski Center sits right in the Catskills with lots of trails perfect for those who love skiing or snowboarding hard runs. You won’t waste time at ticket windows thanks to their SKI3 Card.
Then there's Whiteface Mountain if you're into steep slopes; it boasts a big drop giving extreme skiers an adrenaline rush they seek.
Ice skating in NYC isn't just a fun winter activity but an iconic one. With options across the city, you can skate near historic sites or with views of skyscrapers. Take for example The Rink at Rockefeller Center, opened on Christmas Day 1936 and now a classic spot for locals and tourists alike.
Prices start at $21, varying by time and age. For something different, glide over to Brooklyn Bridge Park’s rin
In winter, Central Park turns into a real-life snow globe. Imagine walking through this vast white space where every step takes you deeper into what feels like a dream scene from your favorite movie. With over five inches of fluffy snow covering the ground, the park's usual green is swapped for an endless stretch of pure white.
It becomes quieter too; it’s as if the city pauses to let you soak in this magic moment all by yourself. Start at The Pond near 59th Street—it looks stunning under a blanket of snow and stands out as one must-visit spot for any selfie lover or photography enthusiast. As you move northward, marvel at how trees line pathways with their branches bowing low with heavy layers of crisp snow—a breathtaking view not to miss!
A walk down The Mall will reveal rows upon rows covered beneath snowy archways providing scenes so serene they'll compel anyone to stop and admire. Don’t just rush through; take moments here and there to stand still and listen—to really hear—the silence that such beautiful scenery offers amidst New York's buzz. Your stroll wouldn't be complete without seeing Bethesda Fountain overlooking The Lake frozen across its surface lightly veiled in ice—another iconic image representing Central Park’s wonderland state during winter months.
Cross Bow Bridge above thin sheets breaking over stagnant waters below before reaching Belvedere Castle atop Turtle Pond—for views worth every cold nip felt along your journey exploring these wonders dressed in winters best attire.
Near Willowemoc Campgrounds, a snowshoeing journey awaits you. This activity is great for anyone looking to enjoy winter outdoors. The trails here offer both easy walks and challenges for the avid explorer.
You can rent gear right at the site or bring your own. Snowshoeing lets you see parts of New York's nature that many miss during winter months. Also, guided tours are available if you're new or want to learn more about the area's history and wildlife as you walk through snowy woods.
Make sure to dress warm in layers and have waterproof boots on! This adventure can last a few hours so pack some water and snacks too. This fits perfectly into our guide on Top New York Winter Activities by giving an active yet serene option away from crowded ski slopes or ice rinks found closer to city centers.
Ready to fly down some hills? New York's got you covered for sledding fun. After online classes, grab a sled and hit Central Park.
Pilgrim Hill is top choice with its steep but smooth slope at the 72nd Street entrance. If it’s packed, Cedar Hill near the Met offers slopes for all ages. Remember, no sledding by the Conservatory Garden now due to construction work.
For bigger thrills in Harlem and Upper Manhattan, St Nicholas Park calls out to older kids with its steep drops. Inwood Hill boasts less-known trails offering both excitement and beautiful views. Riverside gives several choices like Hippo Playground hill or daredevil runs toward Hudson River blocked safely by hay bales!
Morningside has plenty plus Carl Schurz Park provides gentler rides perfect for younger ones on East Side. Heading lower into Manhattan might need a bit more creativity with places like Stuy-Town being kid favorites thanks to manageable hills. When snow covers NYC streets take this guide along whether seeking mild glides or heart-racing descents across different boroughs from park-packed highs of uptown landscapes right through downtown escapes providing everyone their slice of winter joy!
In New York, winter turns the city into a shopper's paradise. Head to Bryant Park Winter Village for over 170 kiosks with gifts from around the world. It runs October 27th to March 3rd.
You can skate for free if you bring skates and enjoy bumper cars on ice too! Harlem Night Market lights up December Saturdays with music, food, and unique finds—the perfect spot for those after something special. Don't miss Crafts at the Cathedral from December 1st-3rd; it combines art shopping with stunning architecture—a ticketed event supporting local programs.
FAD Market offers fashion-forward items through December in Dumbo and Boerum Hill—admission's free here! For Brooklyn Navy Yard Holiday Market goers looking for locally made goods by small Black-owned brands, mark your calendar for the first weekend of December—it’s more than just shopping; it’s about community support. Each market showcases New York City’s festive spirit alongside creativity making them must-visits this holiday season.
When you're in New York during winter, Broadway shows light up the city. "A Beautiful Noise" lets you dive into Neil Diamond's world with hit songs that will stay with you long after. If '80s music is your thing, don't miss "The Heart of Rock and Roll," inspired by Huey Lewis’s catchy tunes. For a story from Manhattan itself, see Alicia Keys’s journey unfold in “Hell's Kitchen,” full of powerful anthems like “Girl on Fire.” Want comedy?
Catch Sutton Foster in “Once Upon a Mattress,” showing off her unique charm. Don’t overlook "Suffs," highlighting the fight for women's voting rights through engaging musical storytelling. And for something truly magical, “Water for Elephants” brings to life circus wonders set against Great Depression backdrops—you'll feel every high and low along with its characters.
For rock opera fans, there's no beating "The Who’s Tommy," revisiting an epic tale enhanced by unforgettable music and award-winning direction. Each show offers something special—bringing stories alive amidst NYC’s winter glow.
On your winter trip to New York, don't miss the hot cocoa tour in Manhattan. Start by checking out current top spots for the best hot chocolate. Remember, locations can change so always check the latest lists online before you go.
Inspired by a year-old list from Time Out NY, I embarked on my own journey. I found that one beloved spot near Weight Watchers HQ, a little taco place where hot cocoa warmed many of my winter walks, no longer serves it.
To make sure you get quality over convenience, skip places like Starbucks and seek out unique finds such as Amy's Bread in West Village or Grom for their high-quality ingredients and ethical sourcing practices. You'll notice some use real coco syrup instead of powder - these are worth your time!
Enjoying multiple cups throughout NYC is doable; each has its distinct flavor profile contributing to an unforgettable experience of warmth and euphoria only good chocolate can bring. Remember this on January 31st – National Hot Chocolate Day! Share this day with new friends over a cup and maybe even recommend them something fun like the mermaid parade when it warms up.
This adventure across Manhattan isn’t just about finding great drinks. It's also about opening up conversations with locals, like those working at ice cream shops serving vegan options, or learning how different cafes have upgraded their cocoa game from powders to premium coco syrups.
In Hudson Valley, winter turns the region into a picture-book scene. It's less crowded than places like the Catskills but just as magical. Here, you can find quiet towns with cozy inns and local shops full of charm.
The area is known for its farm-to-table restaurants that offer warm meals perfect for cold days. There are also small wineries where you can taste wine while looking at snowy hills. This valley isn't far from top ski spots in Upstate New York either.
You get to enjoy skiing without the usual rush of people found elsewhere. Hudson Valley lets you slow down and savor each moment of your winter trip. By choosing this spot, visitors support our mission: an inclusive workplace with diverse teams mirrors here too.
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When it's cold outside, New York's cultural museums offer a warm welcome. One unique spot is Carnegie Hall’s wellness concerts. They make for an amazing winter activity where you can relax on mats and cushions while enjoying music meant to calm your mind.
These shows aren't just about listening; they involve interaction with prompts and breathing exercises. Another must-visit's the pop-up at 51st and Broadway. It's perfect for those who enjoy singing along in a cozy setting decorated in vibrant reds under beautiful chandeliers.
Don't miss "The Secret World of Elephants" at the museum near Central Park. This exhibition brings ancient creatures into today’s context, letting you discover fascinating facts like what elephants eat or how huge their teeth were—all within the warmth of indoor galleries. For something more active indoors, consider Swingers Crazy Golf in Midtown West—this place offers mini-golf but with craft cocktails available as you play through three different nine-hole courses underneath grand ceilings.
It turns golf into a party-like experience suitable when outdoor sports aren’t appealing due to weather. These activities show that New York doesn’t hibernate come winter—it transforms offering new ways to explore culture comfortably inside away from the frosty air outside New York shines in winter, offering a mix of fun both indoors and outdoors. From ice skating at famous spots to exploring cozy cafes, there's no shortage of joy. Museums open their doors for those who love art and history, while parks dress up in snow for hikes or sledding adventures.
Winter markets also pop up, perfect for finding unique gifts or tasting local treats. For anyone looking to experience the magic of New York during the colder months, these activities promise memorable moments that highlight what makes this season special here.