8 New York Destinations With Serious Christmas Charm

I grew up in Upstate New York, and as a child, I resented the area. Why would my parents choose such a desolate, cold area to raise their kids in? Well, after years of resentment, I finally have a great appreciation for the beauty that is Upstate New York. Would I ever move back? Nope, however, I will admit that New York State as a whole is one of the most beautiful, especially around the holidays. From the snow-capped trees of the Catskills to the small-town decor of some lesser-heard of places, here are my top 8 favorite places to visit in New York around the holidays.

1. Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Springs is a quaint town about 30 miles north of Albany. Best known for its stunning State Park, Saratoga Springs is a perfect blend of nature and commercialism. The main street Broadway is a bustling area filled with mom-and-pop shops that are perfect for buying loved-ones presents. Saratoga Springs has tons of spas, eateries, and above all, history. There’s a booming arts scene here which can best be explored at Saratoga Arts Center. Why save Saratoga Springs for a Christmas-time getaway? The Adelphi Hotel is decked out in holiday decor, the weather isn’t totally frigid quite yet in Saratoga Springs in December, and the Christmas charm on all of the streets are through the roof. Plus, there’s a Saratoga’s Victorian Streetwalk/tree lighting celebration which happens in early December every year. For one of the best meals in town, as well as one of the most decked out in decor, head to Hattie’s. Pro-tip: Order the fried chicken and “swamp water.”

2. Lake Placid, NY

Fewer places are as picturesque as the Adirondacks in the wintertime, and fewer Adirondacks destinations are as serene as Lake Placid. Lake Placid, though indeed a lake, here refers to the town. The lake with the most activity going on is Mirror Lake, and there’s no better place to lodge than Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa due to both its location and its abundance of activities in the winter. The Christmas decor in the lobby is as enticing as the fragrance of pine and warm winter spices that fills the air. For those who are looking to avoid the cold, the spa at Mirror Lake Inn is a prime way to stay warm. For those looking to enjoy the winter atmosphere, options range from snow-shoeing to riding the infamous Tobbogan Chute to dog-sledding. Regardless of your preference, Lake Placid is a literal dream during the holidays.

3. Cleveland, NY

Much less about Christmas decor as it is about total isolation, Cleveland is a small town situated on Upstate New York’s Oneida Lake. Why Oneida Lake? Much less popular than its Finger Lakes neighbors, Oneida Lake offers a seriously serene getaway, and is especially perfect for those who want a nature-filled and quiet escape. There aren’t really any hotels to choose from, but finding a humble Vrbo like this one is a great way to ensure being close to the water. As far as eateries go, head to The Lake House & Casino in nearby Sylvan Beach. For a tasting of local wine, head to Grace Tyler Estate Winery, where there are fireplaces in a heated enclosed area. Cleveland is a great option if you’re looking to put your money back into local communities and support small businesses.

4. Verona, NY

Verona, NY is a small town in Oneida County, with a population of under 7,000 people. It’s right off of I-90, or the New York State Thruway, at Exit 32. There’s not a whole lot going on in Verona, but one establishment makes visiting this small Upstate New York town worth the trek, especially around the holidays. Turning Stone Casino & Resort has some seriously stunning holiday decor, and every year they put up a larger than life Christmas tree. Turning Stone Casino & Resort has a whole lot going on under one roof. Put your pinkies up and dine at TS Steakhouse, situated on the penthouse of the Tower at Turning Stone. Try your luck with gambling at one of the many slots or tables. Above all, when visiting during the holiday season, take a stroll through the Gingerbread houses, made from real candy and gingerbread. For those who want to spend the night, Turning Stone is also a hotel, but rooms typically come with a price. Try one of these nearby Verona hotels for a budget option.

5. Rochester, NY

One of New York’s most historical cities, home to the likes of Susan B. Anthony and Frederick Douglass, is worth visiting any time of year, but the city becomes extra magical around Christmas. Rochester is in northwestern New York, inching close to the Canadian border. Head to ROC Holiday Village for ice-skating and shopping at some local mom-and-pop stands, eat breakfast with Santa at Kettle Ridge Farms, and for some educational fun, head to the Genesee Country Village & Museum for their annual “Yuletide in the Country.” My top hotel pick is The Strathallan Rochester Hotel & Spa.

6. Old Forge, NY

Better known as the snowmobiling capital of New York, Old Forge connects to over 10,000 snowmobiling trails in the Empire State. Adirondack Lodge Old Forge is a great spot to be situated, as it’s close to the main attractions of this small winter wonderland. Old Forge is a perfect blend of commercialism and adventure, so even if you’re not super into snowmobiling, there are plenty of fun festivities to keep you entertained. Visitors would be remiss to not dine at the long-standing Italian institution Frankie’s. The area is woodsy yet vibrant, and encompasses all of the classic small-town charm.

7. Hunter, NY

Situated in the picturesque Catskills is a popular cityscape for New Yorkers called Hunter. Hunter is best known for its ski slopes, but its Christmas cheer and charm is just as worthy of a visit. Head to Scribner’s for some ice-skating, grab a cold one at one of the many local breweries (Hunter Mountain Brewery and Jägerberg Beer Hall and Tavern are my favorites), and if your timing allows it, attend the Athens Annual Victorian Stroll. For accommodation, try Bluebird Hunter Lodge.

8. New York City, NY

Come on, you didn’t think I wasn’t going to include New York City in this list, did you? Say what you want about city folks, NYC does Christmas better than most. From the stunning Rockefeller Tree to the ice-skating at Bryant Park to the restaurants in NYC that have so much Christmas decor Santa would be jealous, it’s hard to deny the magic that is New York City around the holidays. There’s so much to see, eat, and do in NYC in December. Holiday pop-ups are everywhere, every street corner is decked out with Christmas lights, and hotels such as Lotte New York Palace, Four Seasons New York Downtown, Royalton Park Avenue, The Williamsburg Hotel, The William Vale, and more offer lobby decor that will make NYC feel like Christmas right at home.