Travel Discovery

Best Day Trips from NYC in Winter

Destination: New York City

    1. The Catskills
    2. Overview: Nestled amidst rolling hills and snow-covered forests, The Catskills is a haven for winter enthusiasts. Only a couple of hours from NYC, it boasts some of the best ski resorts in the East Coast such as Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain. After skiing or snowboarding, unwind at a rustic lodge with a hot cocoa or explore the charming villages like Woodstock for an authentic small-town winter feel. Rating: 4.6/5
    3. Duration: Full Day

    4. Next Up: Sample hearty comfort food at local diners; don't miss out on the famous apple pie.

    5. Hudson Valley

    6. Overview: Experience the serene beauty of the Hudson River Valley in its winter cloak. Take a scenic drive along the river, stopping at historic sites like Kykuit, the Rockefeller Estate, adorned in festive lights. Visit quaint towns like Beacon, where you can warm up in art galleries and boutiques before enjoying a sumptuous dinner. Rating: 4.5/5
    7. Duration: Full Day

    8. Culinary Delight: Savor a hearty bowl of clam chowder or indulge in a farm-to-table feast showcasing the region's freshest produce.

    9. Longwood Gardens, Pennsylvania

    10. Overview: Cross state lines into Pennsylvania to witness the enchanting Longwood Gardens’ Christmas display. With over half a million twinkling lights and festive decorations spread across acres of indoor and outdoor gardens, it’s a spectacle that transforms winter into a wonderland. Stroll through the heated conservatories filled with exotic plants, and marvel at the synchronized fountain show. Rating: 4.8/5
    11. Duration: Half Day (Morning departure recommended)

    12. Following Activity: Warm up with a visit to nearby Chaddsford Winery for a wine tasting session.

    13. Bear Mountain State Park

    14. Overview: Embrace the great outdoors at Bear Mountain State Park, less than an hour’s drive from NYC. Enjoy cross-country skiing, ice-skating on the frozen lake, or simply take a brisk hike with panoramic views of the valley. The park offers a winter wonderland escape complete with a cozy inn and restaurant for a well-deserved break. Rating: 4.7/5
    15. Duration: Half Day to Full Day
    16. Foodie Tip: Refuel with hot dogs and chili at the historic Bear Mountain Inn.