As the temperatures drop, Upstate New York becomes a winter wonderland filled with snowy hills, glittering frozen lakes, and endless opportunities for adventure. The Finger Lakes region transforms into a magical destination perfect for both weekend getaways and cozy staycations. The best places to visit in upstate New York in winter are the ones that capture your interest. You’ll find that the Finger Lakes offer something for everyone during the colder months. From ski resorts to charming inns, wineries, and outdoor adventures, it’s easy to see why this region is a top winter destination, even for those of us who reside here all year long.
Located on the shores of Canandaigua Lake, this boutique hotel offers the perfect blend of relaxation and indulgence. With cozy lakeview rooms, a full-service spa, and fine dining options, it’s a fantastic spot to enjoy the beauty of winter without leaving the comfort of a luxurious setting.
If you’re a food and wine enthusiast, NY Kitchen is a must-visit. Offering cooking classes, wine tastings, themed events, and a renowned restaurant, it’s the perfect place to warm up with gourmet flavors to entertain and challenge your palette.
For a truly unique experience, escape to Belhurst Castle, a historic gem on the shores of Seneca Lake. This luxurious property offers several unique options for staying on-site, spa services, fine dining, and a wine-tasting room. The castle’s rich history and stunning lake views make it one of the most unforgettable Finger Lakes winter getaways.
The Finger Lakes region is celebrated for its world-class wineries; winter is the perfect time to explore them. With fewer crowds and cozy tasting rooms, you can enjoy intimate wine experiences while gazing out at snow-covered vineyards. Here are some must-visit wineries open year-round.
Situated on Keuka Lake, this historic winery offers prestige and range. For the third straight year, it won best winery tour in the USA Today 10 Best Reader's Choice poll and placed fifth for best wine-tasting room. We recommend the 1886 Food and Wine Experience, which features a guided tour followed by a seated wine tasting paired with seasonal small bites.
For a more eclectic adventure, visit Three Brothers, where four unique tasting rooms offer a diverse selection of wines, beers, and ciders. This winery is a favorite for its lively atmosphere, varied options, and tasty cafe, making it perfect for a winter day of sampling different flavors.
Known for its rich history and whimsical personality, Bully Hill on Keuka Lake offers stunning views and a fun, relaxed atmosphere. We love the BBQ, smoked on-site with local applewood, and the on-site museum of family history and wine-making.
The Finger Lakes region provides endless opportunities to explore the natural beauty of winter. The region's parks and trails are just as spectacular in the colder months, offering everything from scenic hikes to breathtaking waterfalls. It’s well worth bundling up!
Often called the "Grand Canyon of the East," this park is a winter wonderland filled with frozen waterfalls and scenic overlooks. Winter visitors can enjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or simply taking in the dramatic snow-covered gorge.
A hidden gem for hiking enthusiasts, Clark Gully offers winter trails leading to stunning waterfalls. The icy cascades and quiet trails make it a peaceful and picturesque winter hike.
This historic site offers a chance to explore the area’s native Seneca culture and great winter hiking trails. The mix of history and outdoor adventure makes it a unique destination for those interested in both nature and culture.
For winter sports enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes region offers some of the best ski resorts and outdoor activities in Upstate New York.
Located just outside of Canandaigua, Bristol Mountain is a premier destination for skiing and snowboarding. With a vertical rise of 1,200 feet and 38 trails, it’s one of the top Finger Lakes ski resorts. Visitors can enjoy day and night skiing with well-groomed runs for every skill level. For non-skiers, the resort also offers scenic aerial rides and breathtaking views of the snow-covered landscape.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, the resort offers snow tubing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Are you a roller coaster aficionado? Feed your need for speed with a snowy downhill ride on the Sky Flyer Mountain Coaster.
The resort recommends purchasing tickets online before you visit and notes that face coverings are required when it’s impossible to remain six feet away from other guests.
For those looking for a winter adventure just outside the Finger Lakes, Greek Peak Mountain Resort is a top choice. Located about an hour from Canandaigua, Greek Peak offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, and tubing on its 55 trails.
For a quieter, more serene experience, Keuka Lake State Park provides opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The rolling hills and scenic views of Keuka Lake make it a perfect spot for an afternoon outdoors.
If you prefer something off the beaten path, try ice fishing on one of the Finger Lakes that freeze over during the winter. The smaller lakes in the region, such as Honeoye Lake, offer excellent opportunities for anglers to catch perch, trout, and pike.
Up for a bit of a drive? Here are our favorite places to sneak away for a weekend in the winter!
Just under an hour from Rochester, Skaneateles is a charming lakeside town perfect for a winter weekend escape. Known for its picturesque village and historic inns, Skaneateles offers a cozy retreat with boutique shopping, farm-to-table dining, and waterfront views of Skaneateles Lake. The town’s winter festivals, including Dickens Christmas, transform it into a holiday wonderland. Spend your weekend strolling the quaint streets, dining at The Sherwood Inn, or warming up with a cup of hot cocoa from GOOD eats & sips.
For a luxurious winter getaway, consider a trip to Aurora, located about an hour from Rochester on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake. Home to the upscale Inns of Aurora, this small village offers a peaceful escape with breathtaking lake views, gourmet dining, and wellness experiences at the on-site spa. Relax by a fireplace, explore the art galleries, or indulge in a guided wine tasting of Cayuga Lake wines.
An hour’s drive from Rochester, Ithaca is a lively college town with plenty to offer during the winter months. Explore the area’s scenic waterfalls, which take on a magical quality when frozen, or visit the local farmers market and artisan shops. With a vibrant food scene, including vegan and farm-to-table restaurants, Ithaca is perfect for a weekend of dining and relaxation. Cozy up at one of the local inns or boutique hotels, and make time to visit Buttermilk Falls State Park for a brisk winter hike.
Tucked in the heart of the Finger Lakes and just under an hour from Rochester, Naples is a hidden gem for a quiet winter retreat. Known for its rolling hills and vineyards, this small town offers a peaceful escape. Stay at a cozy bed and breakfast, sample local wines at Inspire Moore Winery, and don’t miss a slice of the famous grape pie. For those who enjoy winter hikes, Grimes Glen offers a scenic trail leading to frozen waterfalls, perfect for a refreshing winter adventure.
Gerber Homes has been building custom homes in the Finger Lakes and Rochester areas for decades. As local experts, we know the ins and outs of the region, from selecting the perfect home site to designing a home that fits your lifestyle and budget. Let us help bring your vision to life with our deep knowledge of the local landscape and our commitment to quality craftsmanship.
Contact us today to start planning your custom home with the trusted experts who call this area home!