By Carol Cain, on December 29, 2016

3 favorite getaways near NYC for New Year’s

I have had fun celebrating New Year’s with friends and family in my beloved city of New York. The energy, lights, and sounds of the city during the holiday season is why I love it so.

Over the years, however, I have come to enjoy a more laid-back and serene experience and tend to prefer greeting the New Year outside the city.

Here are three of my favorite spots.

Lake Placid, NY

A beautiful 4.5 hour Amtrak train ride along the Hudson river will bring you into the Adirondacks and closer to the town of Lake Placid. There are plenty of places to stay, but my top choice for their warm cabin feel and cozy rooms and beds is the Whiteface Lodge.

You can enjoy a cocktail while sitting in front of one of their massive fireplaces, or take a swim in their heated pool, or maybe roast marshmallows after skating under the stars.

You can skate into the New Year at the Olympic Speed Skating Oval, proceeds from which are donated to the Lake Placid Food Pantry. Or head over to Saranac Lake for a family-friendly new year celebration with music and fireworks.

For serenity and a bit of exercise, I like to spend some time snowshoeing through the forest in Mt. Van Hoevenberg.

Carol Cain. GirlGoneTravel.com
Make time for fun in the snow!

Hudson Valley, NY

There are several counties to explore along the Hudson Valley. I tend go to Phoenicia, in Ulster County, near the Catskill Mountains. We love the small town feel and of course, my favorite resort in the area, Emerson Resort, is conveniently located just a few minutes away from the center of it all.

The popular Peekamoose Restaurant hosts an annual dancing, drinking, and dining event and his event always sells out, call at 845-254-6500 for tickets and more info. Or if you rather book a sky trip, then stay at the Windham Mountain Resort and then stop in for their annual New Year’s party.

Viewfinder Tip: Bring your heavy winter gear as snow collects quickly and often more heavily outside New York City.

The Finger Lakes, NY

Though the Fingers Lakes is a bit longer of a drive, I have always found it worth it. You will feel the full force of winter here and there might be a chance that a snowstorm or two will keep you inside. But if escape is what you are looking for, then this is the place to do it.

The food scene is amazing here and the people are really nice. The quaint Geneva on the Lake is where I cozied up one cold winter night and loved it. Ask for a room with a fireplace and indulge in the warmth with a loved wine while quietly saying good bye to the old and hello to the new, bubbly in hand.

What’s your favorite winter escape?