Ultimate Guide to Upstate New York in Winter
When Jack Frost paints Upstate New York white, don’t let the chill fool you – this region buzzes with energy all winter long.
Cozy cabins, steaming mugs of cocoa, and the gentle crackle of fireplaces set the scene for a magical getaway. Let this guide be your key to unlocking the region’s cold-weather charms!
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Weather
Upstate New York transforms into a snowy paradise from December through March, with frosty temperatures and plenty of the white stuff. Expect daytime highs around 30°F (-1°C) and nighttime lows dipping into the teens.
Snowfall varies across Upstate NY, but you can count on plenty of powder for winter activities. The Tug Hill region often sees over 200 inches annually, while other areas average 60-100 inches.
Occasional thaws can create icy conditions, so be prepared with proper footwear. Keep in mind that lake effect snow can create localized heavy snowfall, especially near the Great Lakes.
Where to Stay
Starting off in Lake Placid, known for its Winter Olympic history and breathtaking mountain surroundings, Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa stands out.
Why stay here? You’re treated to a lakefront view, and it’s perfect for anyone aiming to hit the slopes early.
Heading over to the charm-filled town of Rhinebeck, you have the Beekman Arms and Delamater Inn, America’s oldest operating inn. A stay here means you’re steps away from quaint shops and local dining spots.
Let’s not overlook Phoenicia, a small town with a big heart nestled in the Catskills. The Graham & Co. is the place here—simple, stylish, and a prime spot for those who love the outdoors.
Skaneateles is your go-to for a sophisticated retreat where you can unwind by the serene waters of one of the cleanest lakes in the region.
The Sherwood Inn offers history and elegance, providing the ideal backdrop for a relaxing escape.
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Best Things to Do in Winter
Ready to make the most of the cold season? Let’s check out some of the best things to do in Upstate New York this winter.
Skiing & Snowboarding
Ready to hit the slopes? The Adirondacks are a skier’s paradise, with Lake Placid offering some of the best winter slopes. You’ll find runs for all skill levels, from gentle bunny hills to heart-pumping black diamonds.
Don’t miss out on Hunter Mountain, a favorite among NYC powder hounds. It’s just a quick trip from the city, making it perfect for weekend warriors. The Southern Tier has some hidden gems too, with smaller resorts that pack a punch.
Ice Skating at the Empire Plaza
Glide across the ice at Albany’s coolest winter hotspot; the Empire State Plaza Ice Rink transforms into a frosty playground from December through March.
Lace up your skates and spin under twinkling lights with the stunning Capitol building as your backdrop. This outdoor rink is free to use, so you can practice your triple axels without spending a dime.
After dark, the plaza really comes alive. Catch special events like tree lightings and dazzling firework displays that light up the night sky.
Dickens Christmas in Skaneateles
You’ll adore the Dickens Christmas celebration in Skaneateles. This charming Finger Lakes town becomes a Victorian wonderland on weekends from Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve.
Stroll down streets lined with twinkling lights and festive garlands. You might bump into Charles Dickens himself or one of 50 costumed characters from his novels. They’ll chat with you in 19th-century speak, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time!
Snag unique gifts from local shops decked out in Victorian finery. You’ll find everything from handcrafted ornaments to artisanal treats. It’s the perfect spot to knock out your holiday shopping list.
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Winter Hiking
Ready to lace up your boots and hit the snowy trails? Upstate New York offers some fantastic winter hiking options.
Grab your warmest gear and head to Selkirk Shores State Park near Pulaski. With five miles of marked trails and stunning lakefront views, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a winter wonderland.
For a mix of difficulty levels, check out the trails in the Adirondacks. Don’t forget to pack some hot cocoa and snacks. Nothing beats warming up with a steaming drink after conquering a frosty trail.
Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
The Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is a chilly celebration that’s been warming hearts since 1897. This winter wonderland transforms the quaint Adirondack village into a snow-covered playground for 10 days each February.
You’ll be dazzled by the towering ice palace, a glittering fortress built from massive blocks of ice harvested from Lake Flower. Don’t miss the gala parade, where colorful floats and costumed revelers dance through the streets.
For the adventurous, try your hand at the frying pan toss or join in the innertube races. If you’re feeling lucky, enter the icicle contest – it’s a real crowd-pleaser. As night falls, the sky lights up with a dazzling fireworks display, casting a magical glow over the ice palace and snow-covered landscape.
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Niagara Falls State Park
You’ll find a magical winter wonderland at Niagara Falls State Park. The thundering waterfalls partially freeze, creating stunning ice formations that glisten in the sunlight.
Bundle up and take a stroll along the Niagara Gorge Rim Trail for breathtaking views of the icy landscape.
For a unique perspective, head to the Prospect Point Observation Tower. You’ll get an up-close look at the icy mist and frozen falls from this vantage point.
Don’t miss the nightly illumination of the falls. Colorful lights transform the frozen cascades into a dazzling spectacle.
The Mayville Winter Festival
The Mayville Winter Festival is a charming event that takes place at Lakeside Park on Route 394, typically during President’s Day weekend.
The festival kicks off with the lighting of a handcrafted wooden castle. You can enjoy sleigh rides around the park, taking in the frosty scenery. Local vendors offer tasty treats and warm drinks to keep you cozy.
Explore Downtown East Aurora
You’ll adore East Aurora’s quaint Main Street, especially when it’s dusted with snow. This Buffalo-area gem turns into a winter wonderland, perfect for a frosty stroll.
Pop into Vidler’s 5 & 10, a family-owned store that’s been around since 1930. It’s packed with quirky finds and nostalgic treats.
Warm up with a steaming cup at Elm Street Bakery, where the aroma of fresh-baked goods fills the air. Their hearty soups hit the spot on chilly days.
For a dose of presidential history, swing by the Millard Fillmore House Museum. It’s the only home built by a U.S. president with his own hands.
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Ice Fishing
Ready to try your hand at ice fishing in Upstate New York? Bundle up and head to one of the region’s frozen lakes.
Skaneateles Lake is a top spot to cast your line. You might reel in salmon, trout, or bass as you enjoy the serene winter landscape.
Want more options? Check out Lake Champlain for walleye, perch, and even smelt. The locals say it’s the place to find decent-sized catches.
Lake George Winter Carnival
The Lake George Winter Carnival happens every weekend in February, turning the village into a winter playground.
You’ll find quirky events like outhouse races that’ll have you giggling. Warm up with yummy bites at cook-offs featuring chowder, chili, and chicken wings.
For thrill-seekers, there’s snow tubing and ice-cold fun. Families can enjoy cozy bonfires on the beach. Don’t miss the dazzling fireworks lighting up the night sky.
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Average One-Week Budget
Let’s talk money! For a week-long adventure with your bestie or other half, you’ll want to set aside a decent chunk of change.
Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense. Expect to shell out around $150-$200 per night for a cozy winter getaway spot. That’s about $1,050-$1,400 for the week.
Food-wise, you’re looking at roughly $50-$75 per person daily. This covers a mix of dining out and grabbing snacks. Tally that up, and you’re at $700-$1,050 for the week.
Transportation costs vary. If you’re renting a car, budget about $350-$400 for the week. Don’t forget gas money!
Now for the fun part – activities. Skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports can add up. Set aside about $500-$700 for lift tickets, equipment rentals, and other snowy shenanigans.
Adding it all up, you’re looking at a grand total of $2,600-$3,550 for two people. You can always trim costs by opting for budget-friendly accommodations or cooking some meals yourself.
What to Pack
First things first: layers are your best friend. Pack thermal underwear, fleece tops, and insulated jackets to keep you toasty. Don’t forget warm socks and waterproof boots – perfect for trudging through snow or exploring icy trails.
Accessories are key; bring a cozy hat, gloves, and a scarf to protect against frosty winds. Sunglasses are a must too – that winter sun reflecting off the snow can be blinding.
For outdoor activities, consider packing snowshoes or ice skates. Many spots offer rentals, but having your own gear means you’re always ready for impromptu fun.
Tech-savvy travelers, don’t leave home without your rechargeable hand warmers. They’re great for keeping your digits defrosted during outdoor explorations.
And let’s not forget aprés-ski essentials. Pack a swimsuit for hot tub dips, and throw in some cozy loungewear for fireside relaxation after a day on the slopes.
