From ski trail debuts to grand hotel openings, there’s always something new to discover in New York State! Spend a wintry weekend on a farm in the Hudson Valley, get your holiday shopping done at a new holiday market in the Finger Lakes, zoom down one the Catskills’ steepest ski trails, and more. 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.
JUMP TO: New on the Slopes | New Lodging | New Attractions | New Restaurants | New Places to Shop | New Pours
New York State Pride Ski Weekends (Adirondacks and Catskills)
After an amazing first annual celebration at the Catskills’ Belleayre Mountain, the first ever Winter Pride Weekend is coming to the Adirondacks! Taking place the weekend of March 7-9, 2025 in New York’s two-time Olympic city, Lake Placid, this event promises wintry fun for everyone. A wide range of indoor and outdoor activities for all ages and abilities are available across the historic Olympic venues, including a welcome party, downhill skiing at Whiteface Mountain, cross-country skiing on Olympic trails, ice skating inside the historic Olympic Center, and an après-ski party with music and dancing. Don’t miss the Catskills’ second annual Pride Ski Weekend, taking place February 7-9, 2025 at Belleayre Mountain, with a special “Pride Glide” group ski lesson and après-ski events complete with music and cocktails.
Plattekill Mountain (Catskills)
Credit: @tryitmom on Instagram
Experience even more thrilling adventures at Plattekill Mountain this winter! This family-owned and operated mountain is debuting a brand new intermediate trail this winter, bringing their total trail count to 41. Also new this year, season pass holders will have access to even more “Platty Perks” including discounts at local restaurants, ski shops, and businesses, and free or discounted tickets at 37 partner mountains. Season pass holders can also use “Buddy Passes” to bring a friend for free on Fridays and Sundays or 50% on all other non-holiday days.
Gore Mountain (Adirondacks)
Big things are coming to Gore Mountain this winter! This premier ski mountain is set to debut its brand-new 18,300 square-foot North Creek Ski Bowl Lodge, featuring a restaurant, two expansive patio levels, and a new high-speed detachable quad lift to elevate the mountain experience. Plus, you can now ride in one of the 73 newly upgraded eight-passenger cabins on the Northwoods Gondola, designed to accommodate wider skis and snowboards.
Holiday Mountain (Catskills)
Three new trails are coming to Holiday Mountain in Monticello. This Catskill resort is a must-visit for wintertime, especially now that it’s home to “Hackledam,” one of the steepest trails in the region! Bundle up and hit the slopes to explore the mountain’s other enhancements like a rebuilt quad chairlift spanning 2,700 feet, upgraded snowmaking system, and new improvements to the race timing on the newly added Giant Slalom race trail.
Snow Ridge Ski Area (Adirondacks)
Thrillseekers will be happy to hear that a new terrain park is coming to the Snow Ridge Ski Area’s Arsenal Trail for the 2024-2025 season! The park will have a variety of features for all skill levels, from beginner to advanced. Check Snow Ridge social media for the latest updates and official opening date. Guests will also be able to enjoy the newly-renovated Wax House Cafe and revamped Tavern230, soon to be home to the “Loony Goony Gastropub,” offering a unique dining experience.
The Henson (Catskills)
Credit: @photobydianee on Instagram
Discover the Catskills’ new boutique hotel, The Henson this winter. Located in Hensonville, just minutes from both Hunter and Windham Mountains, this retreat is ideal for those looking for cozy ski trip vibes. This boutique hotel features 16 cozy rooms along with other thoughtfully-designed shared spaces such as a sky-lit living room, meditative library, roof deck with panoramic mountain views, and more. Don’t pass up on a meal from Matilda, The Henson’s on-site bar and restaurant with fare inspired by the region from chefs Jeremiah Stone and Fabián Von Hauske Valtierra.
Big Tree Inn Geneseo (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @bigtreeinngeneseo on Instagram
Indulge in historic charm and modern luxury at the Big Tree Inn. Found in the quaint village of Geneseo, this newly-reopened 1830s-era inn features eight unique and cozy rooms, each with their own distinct personality, lush bedding, and soft terry robes. Some rooms even have their own in-room jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation. Be sure to stop by the Big Tree restaurant and bar for a decadent meal or evening cocktail.
Glynwood Getaways: Winter Weekend Experience (Hudson Valley)
Get ready to rest, relax, and rejuvenate on a Glynwood Farm Getaway. Spend a tranquil weekend on the 225-acre farm in Cold Spring, where you’ll experience the perfect combination of nature and relaxation, with cozy guest cottages, guided hikes, morning lakeside yoga sessions in the boathouse, and hearty farm-style dining. You can even meet the farm’s friendly animals on a farm tour or explore downtown Cold Spring’s boutique shops, restaurants, museums, and more.
Hotel Brookmere (Capital-Saratoga)
On your next Spa City getaway, stay at Saratoga’s newest luxury hotel, Hotel Brookmere! Charm and elegance are abundant at this indulgent retreat, perfect for those looking for a tranquil getaway surrounded by natural beauty. Settle into one of the 88 decadent guest rooms, indulge in exceptional dining at the Regent Restaurant & Bar, or unwind with a healing treatment at the Arbor Spa. Hotel stays officially open December 18, but rooms are available to book now.
Magic Held Here Yoga Studio (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @magicheldhere on Instagram
Experience the magic of rest and relaxation at Magic Held Here yoga studio in Caledonia. This woman-owned studio, just 30 minutes outside of Rochester offers a serene space for mindfulness and reflection through a variety of yoga practices from power vinyasa yoga to chair yoga. In the warmer months, the studio opens up their Avalon Bell Tent (pictured) for intimate events and mindful retreats.
New Roller Rink and Bowling Alley at The Castle Fun Center (Hudson Valley)
Photo Courtesy of the Castle Fun Center
Family fun for everyone awaits at the Castle Fun Center in Chester! This winter, try out the brand new roller skating rink and bowling alley, adding to the Castle’s lineup of exciting activities including lazer tag, rock climbing, go-karts, bumper cars, and more. Plus, The Castle is just 10 minutes from Goshen and Legoland.
Walton Lanes (Catskills)
Plan a night that’s right up everyone’s alley at the Catskills’ beloved Walton Lanes. After closing due to a flood back in 2006, this favorite among the Walton community and visitors, has officially reopened and is sure to have something to please everyone. Get competitive with the family with a round of bowling, then grab a bite to eat at the new restaurant. Two new electric vehicle charging stations, capable of charging four vehicles, are also available.
Finger Lakes
Farmer’s Café
Nestled in the Finger Lakes hamlet of Groveland Station is a hidden gem cafe serving up cozy comfort meals. The menu features wings, pizza, the Farmer’s Plate (the cafe’s version of the famous garbage plate), and British-style fish and chips, served daily!
Capital-Saratoga
Ophelia’s
Credit: Zak Radick
Live music, quality comfort food, and hand crafted cocktails can all be found at Albany’s newest live music venue, Ophelia’s. The menu is inspired by the authentic flavors of Louisiana, pairing perfectly with a diverse lineup of local and national acts.
Bibulous Saratoga
After grabbing a bite to eat on Saratoga’s main street, stop by Bibulous for a sweet treat. This cozy dessert bar, opening soon on Henry Street, is the perfect place to start or end your night, serving up decadent desserts, hand-crafted cocktails, and small bites – no entrees!
Don Tequila Mexican Cantina
Add the newly-opened Don Tequila Mexican Cantina to your next visit to Albany. The menu will feature classic Mexican and Central American dishes including tacos, burritos, fajita, and more, as well as a robust cocktail lineup.
Omakase Sushi & Grill
A new upscale sushi restaurant and grill is coming to Saratoga Springs! Omakase specializes in personalized 13 or 15-course meals and a la carte rolls like spicy crunchy crab and salmon avocado.
The Nook
Your new go-to breakfast and lunch spot has just opened in Saratoga Springs! Whether you’re craving a breakfast burrito, cobb salad, or freshly-baked sweet treat, at the Nook, there’s something for everyone.
Hudson Valley
Fork & Whisk
Hand-crafted sandwiches, all-day breakfast, and thoughtfully-sourced ingredients can all be found at Fork & Whisk. Found in the quaint village of Chatham, this cozy cafe and bakery is the place to warm up for winter.
Trata on the River
Dine along the Hudson River at Trata on the River in Piermont. Revel in the restaurant’s elegant atmosphere that includes a heated pergola open year-round while you enjoy fresh Mediterranean cuisine.
Trattoria Da Vittorio
Dig into authentic Italian cuisine at Piermont’s newly-opened Trattoria Da Vittorio. This welcoming restaurant features classic dishes made from fresh, high-quality ingredients (90% of which are imported from Italy) and a 400-bottle wine list, representing Italy’s 20 regions.
Hamrah’s Lebanese Foods
Savor the delightful flavors of authentic Lebanese cuisine at Hamrah’s in Kinderhook. Each dish is thoughtfully-prepared with wholesome ingredients including local meats, fresh produce, and the highest quality Middle Eastern specialty seasonings.
Isola Wine & Tapas
Inspired by the elegant yet casual charm of Italian trattorias, this new wine and tapas bar in Kinderhook is a must-visit for visitors and locals alike. Isola’s menu pay’s homage to ethical, small-scale producers featuring 10 rotating wines, and small bits like fish crudo, meatballs in sugo, and more.
Highland Tree Farm & Holiday Market (Finger Lakes)
Credit: Highland Tree Farm LLC
Make everlasting family memories at the Highland Tree Farm & Holiday Market in Branchport. Find gifts for everyone on your list at local Finger Lakes vendors including wineries, breweries, distilleries, and craft businesses like Antler Run Distilling, Pellar Fox Candle Co, and Scottish Shortbread Co. Be sure to take a stroll through the freshly-cut trees and say “hello” to the farm’s Scottish Highland cows before you go! Highland Tree Farm is open Saturdays and Sundays through December 25.
Ninth of June (Catskills)
Whether you’re a shoe addict or just looking for a new pair of kicks, head to Ninth of June in the village of Delhi. Choose from a variety of fashionable and practical shoes and other apparel in the newly-renovated store.
Solitude Brewing Company (Finger Lakes)
Credit: @solitudebrew on Instagram
Found on the north end of Conesus Lake is another exceptional Finger Lakes brewery to add to your must-visit list. Soon to be one of Livingston County’s only breweries with rooftop seating and lakeside view, Solitude Brewing Co. is the place to sample delicious craft beverages. From pale ale to Kölsch to Solitude hard seltzers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. You can even watch the brewing magic happen from the indoor taproom’s integrated brewing space.
Familiar Creature Bar (Capital-Saratoga)
Just in time for the holiday season, a new wine bar is coming to Saratoga Springs! From the owners of Hamlet & Ghost, Familiar Creature Bar will be led by executive Chef Michele Hunter, who was the 2020 winner of Food Network’s “Chopped.” The bar will feature an impressive lineup of local beer on tap, spritzes, and wine, alongside a menu of casual bites like locally-sourced cheese and meat spreads.
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