The East Coast is no stranger to winter fun, as you’ll find plenty of places that offer ways for you and your family to step into a wonderland of snow and ice. Want a taste of something new that’s only a couple of hours away from New York City? You’re in luck! There are several cities in Upstate New York and Pennsylvania that offer everything you’re looking for in a weekend getaway during the coldest season. Whether you want some fun on the slopes in heavy snow, or a way to relax and unwind in the winter weather, these places have got you covered!
Winter Weekend Getaways Near New York City
Gardiner, NY
If you’re looking for a classy way to celebrate winter in style, visit Gardiner in Ulster County! This town is about two hours away from the Big Apple, so it’s the perfect place to get away while staying close to home. Gardiner is great for wine lovers, as you’ll find plenty of vineyards and distilleries waiting for you to get a sip. Visit Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery on a cold day and watch up close as delicious bottles of whiskey, bourbon and spirits are made right before your eyes.
Once your glass is empty, head to a room at Minnesewaka Lodge, a rustic hotel where each room offers a gorgeous view of the Shawangunk Mountains. If you want to get closer to nature, join one of the hiking excursions close by or take a risk and try to climb the mountains! Gardiner is the place to be when you want to feel the style of the Big Apple away from the city.
New Paltz, NY
When you hear New Paltz, you may think of the university. However, this trendy town holds so much more for visitors. Only a two-hour drive away from New York City, there’s plenty of winter fun in store for you here. Most of it can be found at Mohonk Preserve, a nature preserve filled with outdoor activities to get in the spirit of the season. Their trails are open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, leaving options for daredevils and hikers alike to step into the snow.
If winter sports aren’t your style, don’t worry. You can step into town and go shopping at the cozy Walter Street Market. This village wants to feel like your home away from home by giving you antique shops, boutiques, restaurants and even a theater you can visit. New Paltz is the perfect winter retreat that offers something familiar as well as something new. If you’re in search of a place to stay that has a little bit of everything, book a room at the stunning Mohonk Mountain House.
Skytop, PA
Are you looking for some winter fun outside of New York? Visit Skytop in the Poconos! This town is just a little over two hours away from New York City, but it doesn’t feel like a big city. It’s the perfect place to take the family for some winter fun that will help get you moving too. Most of its activities can be found at Skytop Lodge, a rustic hotel that thrives on all things athletic. Take part in some of their winter activities for all ages like ice skating, snow tubing, skiing and even ice fishing! If you’re ready to take a risk, try some of their more daring activities like sharpshooting and ax throwing. Each one is sure to make you work up an appetite, so be sure to visit during one of their week-long food-tasting events to get a bite of some of the best dishes nature has to offer.
Port Jervis, NY
Port Jervis is a cozy town in Orange County that wants to show visitors that the state is much more than New York City. It’s just about two hours away from the Big Apple, but its down-to-earth atmosphere helps visitors experience a small-town lifestyle. If you want to get close to nature, step onto one of the hiking trails in Elks-Brox Memorial Park. If you visit Point Peter, you’ll get views of the Delaware River as well as other states like New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
If you want to get a better look at these natural sights, step into Park Avenue Observatory to get a birds-eye view. If you want to get closer, visit the Tri-States Monument. There, you’re able to step in New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania all at the same time! Port Jervis is a great place to get away from the city’s energy and give yourself a moment to breathe.
Windham, NY
Looking for a place to get some winter relaxation? Visit Windham when you travel to Hudson Valley! The drive to this town is just over two and a half hours, but you can find plenty of ways to cool down once you arrive. The Windham Spa is one place that knows how to help you unwind, thanks to its organic wellness services. Get a deep facial or massage that will do wonders on your skin, and you can take home some of their products once it’s through!
If you want to get your energy going, visit Elm Ridge Wild Forest. They offer plenty of activities you can do in the snow like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and hiking along their trails. If you want to explore the town some more, visit some of their local restaurants and shops to see all that this quaint place has to offer visitors this winter.
