I Love New York Blog

It’s officially awards season and New York State is home to some amazing award-winning destinations of its own! We’ve rounded up some of the state’s most recent achievements and accolades from new Michelin-starred restaurants to the nation’s best wellness retreats to the top-rated state park in the country. Read on to discover some of the Empire State’s acclaimed attractions and destinations and add these spots to your must-visit list. 

Winter in New York State is magical! When the snow starts to fall, the fun heats up with festivals, carnivals, and events showcasing the best of the snowy season. Watch fireworks erupt over dazzling ice castles, warm up with vibrant jazz performances at NYC Winter Jazzfest, or cheer on Team USA from two-time Olympic host city Lake Placid ahead of the 2026 Milano Cortina Games. Add some of these 28 can’t-miss winter carnivals, festivals, and events to your winter bucket list and plan your next cold-weather adventure in New York State. 

From luxury hotels to must-visit attractions, New York State offers all kinds of ways to save in January! Unlock unbeatable winter offers on Broadway shows, restaurants, hotels, and more during NYC Winter Outing, splash into winter savings for the whole family at Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark in the Catskills, or bundle and save on a ski-and-stay getaway to top ski areas like Holiday Valley. Read on to check out some of the state’s best January deals and discounts.

If you’re looking to experience the magic of winter in the Catskills, look no further than Hunter. This picture-perfect ski town offers everything you’d want in a winter escape: snow-dusted main streets, cozy lodges with crackling fireplaces, and a mountain known for having some of the most reliable ski conditions in the East. 

From snowy slopeside upgrades to cozy coffee shop openings, there’s always something new to discover in New York State! Embark on a peaceful winter stroll along the newly-completed Adirondack Rail Trail, spend the night in Hudson’s newest luxury boutique hotel, or watch the world’s top biathletes compete at Lake Placid’s first IBU Cup. Whether you’re planning a wonderful winter weekend getaway or just looking to make magical memories, be sure to add the Empire State’s latest and greatest to your winter must-do list. 

From quirky thrift shops to multi-floor centers, antiquing in New York State has a little bit of everything! Spend the weekend hunting for secondhand gems in hotspots like Hudson or Brooklyn, or discover unique finds in under-the-radar destinations like Binghamton or Ballston Spa. Whether you’re looking for a new statement piece or just a laid-back weekend escape, these 12 antiquing getaways are sure to send you home with unforgettable memories, and few hidden treasures. 

Snow-covered mountain tops, cozy cabins, and winter sports galore, the Catskills are truly magical this time of year. Whether you prefer watching the snow fall while sitting in front of a crackling fireplace with tasty Catskill cuisine or embarking on a blood-pumping ski or snowmobile adventure, the Catskills promise unforgettable frosty fun for all. What are you waiting for? Check out these cold weather activities and plan your winter wonderland getaway to the Catskills! …

All aboard! From historic railroad museums to exciting train shows, get ready to experience all things trains in New York State. Walk through vintage subway cars at the New York Transit Museum, ride through Catskill Mountain views aboard the Delaware & Ulster Railroad, or spend the night in a restored vintage train caboose in Central New York. Don’t miss your stop! Check out this ultimate lineup of attractions and experiences for train lovers to visit across New York State.

From the snowy shores of Lake George to the frozen falls of the Finger Lakes to the spectacular cityscapes of New York City, all corners of the Empire State transform into a winter wonderland. Snowshoe through sprawling state parks, feel the frosty mist of Niagara Falls, stroll through castle grounds, and more. Capture the beauty of the most magical time of year and add some of these wonderful winter photo spots to your next New York State adventure.

Snow-dusted streets and splendid ski slopes aplenty, it’s the most magical time of the year in New York State. Whether you prefer a wintry outdoor Adirondack adventure or a cozy fireplace and cup of cocoa in the Catskills, New York has a getaway for every winter-goer and every budget.