official 2014-2015 new york state travel guide - winter

8/10/2019 Official 2014-2015 New York State Travel Guide - WINTER

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WINTER

Your getaway begins at iloveny.com and 800/CALL-NYS

I N S I D E

Official 2014-2015 New York State Travel Guide

Family Fun

Downhill SkiingCross-Country Skiin

Snowmobiling

Winter Fishing

Ice Skating

Shopping

Upstate Theater

Winter Events

and more!


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Snow Conditions

Ticket Deals

Gold Pass Deals

Ski & Stay Deals

Learn To Ski Programs

Mountain InfoFree For Kids Passport Programs

Visit www.iskiny.com today!


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2 FAMILY FUN

6 DOWNHILL SKIING, RIDING & TUBING

13 CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

16 SKI CENTERS MAP

18 SNOWSHOEING

19 WINTER FISHING

20 SNOWMOBILING

22 ICE SKATING

23 FOOD & DRINK

24 SHOPPING

26 UPSTATE THEATER

27 SPRING ACTIVITIES

28 WINTER EVENTS

New York State

to

WINTERinC O N T E N T S

Welcome

ALL PHOTOGRAPHY BY DARREN McGEE/NYSDEDUNLESS OTHERWISE CREDITED.

ON THE COVER: SARANAC LAKE WINTERCARNIVAL, SARANAC LAKE

ON THIS PAGE: TOP RIGHT, HOLIDAY VALLEY INELLICOTTVILLE; LEFT SIDE, WOODSTOCK IN THECATSKILLS.

iloveny.com 1 WINTER


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Family Fun Across

New York State!

A Season Full of

NYC is F-U-NFavorite traditions in New York Cityrange from Radio Citys ChristmasSpectacular to the Holiday Train Showat the NY Botanical Garden in the Bronx.Transport yourself to the tropics at the

WINTER 2 800/CALL-NYS

Growler submarine and the Concorde sfirst-class cabin. For more cool fun,ice-skate beside Rockefeller Centersgiant Christmas tree! nycgo.com

Warm up in the 80-degree tropical

Butterfly Conservatory at the AmericanMuseum of Natural History, the worldslargest nature museum (the dinosaursare another kid-favorite). And dontmiss the spectacular space shows atthe Hayden Planetarium! 212/769-5100;amnh.org

Hop Aboard for Seal Watching!Who knew? Seal families head to LongIsland during the cooler months, Novemberto May. Naturalists from the RiverheadFoundation (riverheadfoundation.org),based at Long Island Aquarium, leadseal cruises and hikes to watch seals andother wildlife splash in the waves or baskin the sun at low tide. Get a hot chocolateor snack in the cozy cabin and see howmany seals you can spot. Its way morefun than video games! PS: The Aquariumsopen year-round. A world of adventureawaits! longislandaquarium.com

C O U R T E S Y T H E N E W

Y O R K B O T A N I C A L G A R D E N

Discover a magical world offrosted mountains, glisteningice castles, secret caverns,wonderful wildlife andfantastic festivals. Fromdazzling hot-glass shows,to balmy indoor waterparksand cool mountain coasters

at family-friendly ski resorts,theres fun inside, outside,underground and all around!

Bronx Zoo: the Asian Jungles warm airsuits otters, gibbons and 800 other crittersliving in mangroves and beaches, just asthey would in the wild. The Intrepid Sea,Air & Space Museum features interac-tives, flight simulators and tours of the

BASKING SEALS CAN BE SEEN ON ARIVERHEAD FOUNDATION SEAL CRUISE

HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW AT THENY BOTANICAL GARDEN


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Colorful CarouselsEnclosed in glass at Brooklyn BridgePark, the beautifully restored JanesCarousel offers some of New York Citys

finest views! Built in 1922, its open forrides from Thursday to Sunday in winter,11am to 6pm. janescarousel.com

The Merry-Go-Round at Bear MountainState Park features hand-painted scenesof the park and 42 hand-carved nativeanimals from black bears to raccoons,foxes and swans. Set beside the cozyBear Mountain Inn, its open weekendsand holidays in winter. Families alsoenjoy snowshoeing, cross-country skiing,ice-skating and a zoo. 845/786-2701;nysparks.com/parks/13

Take a free ride on the colorful,full-size 1912 carousel at the New YorkState Museum in Albany. Exhibitshighlight natural and cultural history,from the Adirondacks to an Iroquoislonghouse, gemstones, 170 bird species,antique fire engines and WorldTrade Center artifacts. 518/474-5353;www.nysm.nysed.gov/carousel

Llama GardenIn Hudson, Blackberry Hill Farmshands-on programs teach childrenabout llamas and other fiber-producinganimals. The fun includes story-telling,llama history, refreshments and a woollycraft project to take home. 518/851-7661;BlackberryHillFarm.org

JANES CAROUSEL,BROOKLYN BRIDGE PARK,

BROOKLYN B E R N A R D O

R I C C I A R M A N I

Visit Santas Workshop!During November and December, youcan spend a merry weekend with Santaat his North Pole, NY home, nestled onWhiteface Mountain in the Adirondacks.With cheery elves, live reindeer, storybookcharacters, and great entertainment, theresholiday fun for everyone at SantasWorkshop. 518/946-2211; NorthPoleNY.com

More Mountaintop Adventures!New Yorks family-friendly mountainshave plenty of trails for beginner andintermediate skiers and boarders, plus

challenging terrain parks to thrill older,more adventurous kids. See listings onpages 10 and 11. Check out iskiny.com for information on budget-friendlypackages, ski areas, and the 3rd and4th Graders Ski & Ride FreePassport, good at 25participating ski areas.

Slopeside accommodations range fromcozy inns to full-service resorts withactivities for children and spas to reju-venate the parents. Cross-country trailssleighrides, tubing parks and zigzagginmountain coasters extend the fun.In the Finger Lakes, Greek Peak Resortnew Adventure Center boasts themighty NorEaster Mountain Coaster(greekpeak.net). Holiday Valley ResorSky High Adventure Park, in Ellicottvihas a Mountain Coaster that dips andtwists through the woods. holidayvalley.

Families love Colden Tubing Companygiant downhill tubing park, at KissingBridge ski area in the Greater Niagararegion. A new covered magic-carpetlift speeds you up the hill, reducing thetime between runs. Sail up to the summand slide down to the valley 10 storiesbelow, again and again. All you haveto do is sit down and hang on!kbski.com/colden-tubing-company

SANTAS WORKSHOP,NORTH POLE


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C O U R T E S Y C O R N I N G

M U S E U M

O F G L A S S

In the Catskills, Windham MountainAdventure Park has eight snowtubinglanes, ziplines, cross-country skiing,snowshoeing, a huge skating rink anda comfy lodge. Imagine how cool yourchildren will feel driving the new fleet of120cc Arctic Cat snowmobiles around anoval track at the Kids Snowmobile Park!For riders age 6 and older (up to 120

pounds). Helmets are provided.518/734-4300; windhammountain.com

The New York Zipline at nearby HunterMountain, the longest and highest inNorth America, thrills the whole familywith zips and canopy tours from tame towild. 518/263-5580;HunterMtn.com

Wonders UndergroundIn Central New York, an elevator takesyou down to a geological wonder where

the temperature is a moderate 52 year-round. Howe Caverns, voted a Top 5Northeast Family Attraction by DisneysFamily Fun readers, features marvelousrock formations and boat rides on theunderground river that carved them.518/296-8900; howecaverns.com

Celebrate Baseball!The National Baseball Hall of Fame& Museums three floors of amazingexhibits include the Sandlot KidsClubhousewith Curious George andGarfield fun, photo ops with Hall ofFamers, and hunting for artifacts hiddenin knotholes and drawers. 888/425-5633;baseballhall.org

The Joy of PlayStep into a brand-new Berenstain BearCountry at the Strong National Museumof Play, in Rochester. Explore ReadingAdventurelands life-size pop-up book,Sesame Street, superheroes, and a lushtropical indoor garden with 800 free-flying butterflies! Parents re-live happychildhood memories at the Toy Hallof Fame. Youre never too big for fun!585/263-2700; museumofplay.org

Kid-Friendly Glass ArtThe Corning Museum of Glass, anotherFinger Lakes gem, heats up the seasonwith dazzling Hot Glass shows, glass-blowing workshops for all ages, and holi-day trees aglow with thousands of glassdecorationsthe perfect backdrop for a

family holiday picture! Exhibits show theart and science of glass over 35 centuriesfrom ancient art to space-age wonders.Bonus: Its free for kids up to age 19!607/937-5371; cmog.org

New Heights forIndoor Adventures

Destiny USA takes family fun to newheights! Along with top retailers, pre-mium outlets and over 25 restaurants,indoor adventures abound at thisSyracuse super-center. WonderWorks,the worlds largest suspended indoorropes course, has three stories of chal-lenging activities, from swinging steps tolily pads and a tremor bridge. Check outthe fast go-carts, glow-in-the-dark mini-golf, Lazer Tag and Amazing MirrorMaze! 315/466-6000;destinyusa.com

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CORNING MUSEUM OF GLASS,CORNING

BERENSTAIN BEAR COUNTRY AT THESTRONG NATIONAL MUSEUM OF PLAY,ROCHESTER

C O U R T E S Y T H E S T R O N G

N A T I O N A L M U S E U M

O F P L A Y


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Splashdown for Fun!Six Flags Great Escape Lodge at LakeGeorge welcomes families with 200comfortable suites and a giant indoorwaterpark with slides, lazy rivers,simulated waves, and a special sun roof.Cozy up beside the crackling fireplace inthe grand two-story lobby. 518-792-3404;sixflagsgreatescapelodge.com

Greek Peak Mountain Resort in theFinger Lakes features perfect 84 weatheryear round inside Cascades Waterpark,with over 500 feet of water slides, awave pool, and lots of other splashy fun.800/955-2754; greekpeak.net

Its always summertime at Palm IslandIndoor Water Park, at the Clarion Hotel

in Bataviafeaturing twisty slides, sprays,a pool with a basketball hoop and water-falls, & childrens play areas. 585/344-2100; palmislandindoorwaterpark.com

Fun Festivals & EventsFrom Macys Thanksgiving Day Paradein NYC, to almost-spring maple syrupfestivals upstate, our calendars full of jolly good fun. Celebrate the seasonacross New Yorkfrom Port JeffersonsCharles Dickens Festival on Long Island,

to Troys Victorian Stroll, to frosty wintercarnivals at Lake George and SaranacLake. Experience Twelfth Night,colonialstyle, at Albanys Fort Crailoand Schuyler Mansion, or take an18th-century Castle by Candlelight tourat Old Fort Niagara in Youngstown.In March, farms across New York hostMaple Weekends. Sweet!

Events are listed on page 28?. Forinformation on family-friendly events,attractions and accommodations acrossNew York, call 800/CALL-NYS or visitiloveny.com

C O U R T E S Y D E S T I N Y U S A / S A R A H K I N S L O W

C O U R T E S Y P A L M I S L A N D I N D O O R W A T E R P A R K

WONDERWORKS AT DESTINY USA,SYRACUSE

PALM ISLAND INDOOR WATER PARK,BATAVIA


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Skiing and snowboarding are fastand easy in New York. With over 50downhill ski areas, more than any otherstate, theres great skiing within anhour of every one of our major cities.

Whether you go by car, bus, train or plane, less travel time means moretime for fun on the slopes!

Our ski mountains and terrain parks suit every styleand level of ability, from beginners bunny trailsand family-friendly resorts to black diamonds thatchallenge world-class skiers. And the scenerys asbreathtaking as the action!

In the majestic Adirondacks, Whiteface Lake Placidtwo-time host of the Winter Olympicsboasts 86trails, 11 lifts including the Cloudsplitter Gondola,and the greatest vertical drop in the East. The scenicHudson Valleys smaller ski areas include ThunderRidge, within an hours drive of Manhattan.

Big resorts include Hunter, Windham and Belleayrein the Catskills, Greek Peak and Bristol Mountainin the Finger Lakes, Swain, south of Rochester,and Gore in the Adirondack town of North Creek.

Amtrak service connects with theSaratoga/North Creek Railways

new Gore Mountain Snow Train.Holiday Valley, in the Chautauqua-Allegheny region, was just rated

fifth of the best winter resorts in eastern NorthAmerica by readers of SKI magazine.

Across the state, the powders fresh and liftsare running faster and smoother than ever.To extend the ski season, New Yorks abundantnatural snow gets a boost from state-of-the-artsnowmaking. Hunter Mountain, known for epic

conditions, earns its reputation as the SnowmakingCapital of the World. With so many fantasticski destinations so easy to reach, New York haseverything you need for your perfect ski getaway!

See Downhill Ski Area listings on pages 10-11for details. For more information, check outI SKI NY: iskiny.com.



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DownhillSki & Ride:New YorksPeaks ofPerfection!



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Big News on New Yorks MountainsBetter All the Time!

Ride the rails to the Hudson Valley trails!Take the new Metro-North Ski Train from

New York City and the Metropolitanarea and get a FREE shuttle to ThunderRidge Ski Area (thunderridgeski.com) from the Patterson train station. Getdetails and tickets from Metro-Northon-line or go to a ticket seller at GrandCentral Station and ask for the ThunderSki package, with combo train and liftticket discounts. Ski & Stay Overnightpackages are available too! mta.info/mnr/html/getaways/outbound_thunderski.htm

Upgrades at Hunter Mountain in theCatskills include a high-speed quadchairlift. The six-passenger KaatskillFlyer lift now gets you to top even faster.huntermtn.com

Nearby, Windham Mountain has a newAdventure Park, new trails and glades,expanded beginner terrain for skiers andriders, enhanced snowmaking, a hotel

and several restaurants. Plan to stay awhile! windhammountain.com

Mighty Gore Mountain in theAdirondacks has new trails, newglades, new restaurants and enhancedsnowmaking. North Creeks venerableski resort now has over 100 trails and2,537 vertical feet. Extensive renovationsinclude new glades and a new 150-footconveyor lift for the childrens MountainAdventure center. goremountain.com

With its Olympic venues and livelynightlife, Lake Placid was recently rated#1 of Budget Travels Top 11 CoolestWinter Places in America. WhitefaceLake Placids Off-Hill Activities have

again been ranked #1 by SKI magazinereadersthats 21 years in a row!whiteface.com/activities

New terrain parks add to the magic atKissing Bridge in the Greater Niagararegion: a scaled-down Beginner Parkto help newbies learn to ride the railsand hit the jumps; a Progression Parkwhere features and jumps gradually getlarger; and the larger-scale Main Park,where hits and jibs are bigger, better andbadder! kbski.com

Holiday Valley resort, in Chautauqua-Allegheny, has enhanced snowmakingand a new quad chairlift that doubles liftcapacity. The new Sky High AdventureParks thrilling Mountain Coaster takesyou on a wild zigzagging ride. SKI magazine ranked Holiday the 5th bestresort in eastern US and Canada! Andnow all kids age 6 and under ski free.Another great reason to bring the entirefamily! holidayvalley.com

For information on ski areas acrossNew York, and budget-friendly packages,visit iskiny.com or call 315/696-6550.

C O U R T E S Y H U N T E R M O U N T A I N

HUNTER MOUNTAIN,THE CATSKILLS

LAKE PLACID

Greek Peaks new Adventure Centertops the headlines at this popular FingerLakes resort. Ride the wild NoreasterMountain Coaster for an excitingdescent through the forest. Other newadventures include Zip Line Toursand nine Snowtubing lanes with night-lighting. theoutdooradventurecenter.com

GREEK PEAKSNOREASTERMOUNTIANCOASTER,CORTLAND

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Humans Were NeverMeant to Hibernate!

Celebrate Winter!Learn to Ski and Snowboard

from a PRO.Get a $35 Learn to Ski and Snowboard

Package in NYS in January!(includes lift ticket, lesson and rentals)

Check www.iskiny.com for details and participating mountains.

Facebook: facebook.com/skiandridenyTwitter: @iskiny

Promoting New York States$868 million snowmobileindustry.

Standing up for snowmobileaccess to public lands.

Creating a strong voicefor snowmobile safety.

Advocating on behalf of90,000 snowmobilingfamilies.

Largest snowmobileassociation in NorthAmerica.

Visit www.nysnowmobiler.com for more information


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Adaptive WinterSports Programs

Adaptive ski programs, whichteach skiing to children andadults with cognitive and physicaldisabilities, are so appealingbecause everyone is together onthe same hill, under the samesunny sky. The athletes can feelsuccessful in a totally integratedsetting, with equipment adaptedfor their specific needs.

Skiing and snowboarding,which can both be adapted

for people with disabilities,are good social sports thatfoster camaraderie amongparticipants and their friendsand families.

For more information, visitadaptivesportsfoundation.org or stride.org.

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Snap on some skis andglide into a beautiful winterlandscape. Exhilarating yetrelaxing, this sports easyto learn, inexpensive and agreat aerobic work-out!

Cross-country trails in New York areas varied as the people who ski them,from seaside parks on Long Island toAdirondack mountain peaks. You canglide though scenic landscapes at skiresorts, state parks, forest preserves andformer railroad beds. Trails suit everystyle and skill level, from beginner toback-country explorer. Some are fullygroomed, others untouched. Many skicenters offer equipment rental andlessons. Places to stay range from rusticcabins to country inns and posh resorts.

In the Hudson Valley, just north ofNew York City, enchanting forest trailscrisscross Fahnestock Winter Park.Nearby, ski and stay at the magnificentMohonk Mountain House.

Plattekill Mountain Resort in theCatskills has fun for the whole family,with a tubing park as well as skiing.Groomed trails run through snow-ladenevergreens at Tree Haven Trails andPineridge XC Ski Area in the Capital-Saratoga region.

Glide through towering pines in thetranquil Adirondack woods. LakePlacids Olympic Sports Complex, oneof the premier Nordic venues of NorthAmerica, has 30 miles of groomed trails.Enjoy legendary hospitality and first-ratetrails at Lapland Lake Nordic Center andGarnet Hill Lodgenear Gore Mountainand the vast Siamese Ponds WildernessArea, a backcountry ski mecca.

The Tug Hill Plateau, in the Snowbelteast of Lake Ontario, gets over 200inches of snow annually. Cross-countryskiers find easy sliding at Central NewYorks Osceola Tug Hill. Delightfuloptions in the Finger Lakes includeBristol Mountain, where trails to thesummit are lit with nightlights.

Wellesley Island State Park, in theThousand Islands-Seaway, has shorelinetrails as well as cozy cabins and a year-round nature center.

Byrncliff Resort, in the Greater Niagararegion, features on-site lodging andvaried trails to entertain novices andadvanced skiers. Miles of ungroomedpowder beckon trailblazers to the hills oDarien Lakes State Park.

Out west, lake-effect snow blankets toprated ski areas like Peekn Peak Resortin Findley Lake and Holiday Valley inEllicottville. Allegheny State Park boassome of the finest cross-country ski train the Northeastand more than 150winterized cabins.

Some of NYs many cross-country skiareas are listed on pages 14 to 17. For moinformation see Cross Country Ski Areaof NY (crosscountryskinewyork.com)New York State Parks: nysparks.com

Cross-Country Skiing Glide Across New York! ALLEGANY STATE PARKSALAMA

C U M M I N G N A T U R E C E N T E R ,

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A white carpet awaits you! Discover the tranquil beauty ofNew Yorks winter wonderlandone step at a time.

For a vigorous adventure with breath-taking lake views, trek the mountaintrails of Minnewaska State Park Preservein the Hudson Valley. Hearty andexperienced snowshoe enthusiasts

Check out special events at naturecenters or hire a licensed guide, whocan show you great places to exploreand provide valuable pointers toenhance your experience. See NYSOutdoor Guides Association:nysoga.org/snowshoeing.html

Whatever path or pace you prefer, itstime to get started! Dress for the weatherin comfortable layers. Bring water, snacksand maybe a GPS and camera. Step

into New Yorks frosted wonderland,and let your adventures begin!

For ideas and information on wonderfulplaces to snowshoe, see New York StateParks at nysparks.com, Ski Areas ofNY at iskiny.com, and NYS Dept. ofEnvironmental Conservation:www.dec.ny.gov

Step into aSnowshoeingAdventure!

A simple means of transportation forthousands of years, snowshoeings nowa popular winter sport across New York.Its a fantastic way to enjoy our greatoutdoors, get a great workoutand burn600 calories an hour! This friendlysports easy to learn, inexpensive, andfun for the whole family. Sunny meadows,pine-scented forests and lofty mountainshave trails ideal for every age andabilityfrom steep to smooth. And asthe saying goes: If you can walk, youcan snowshoe.

Some of the best places for snowshoeingare cross-country ski centers, usually ator near a ski resort (see pages 6 to 15).And from Long Island to Chautauqua-Allegheny, our state parks provide avariety of splendid settings. Take a

slow-paced wildlife hike on a naturetrail in the Thousand Islands or alongManhattans waterfront on the HudsonValley Greenway. Follow a restoredtowpath in Old Erie Canal State Parkthat crosses through the Finger Lakesand Central New York.

head out for backpack trips and alpineclimbs in the Catskills and Adirondacks.Near Lake Champlain, MacombReservation State Park offers greatwilderness snowshoeing.


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The eastern end of Lake Ontario andthe St. Lawrence River gateway offersome of the nations best pansh ice jigging. Near Pulaski in the ThousandIslands, the Sandy Pond SportsmansAssociation (sandypondsportsmans.coand Salmon River Sport Fishing Museu(salmonrivershingmuseum.com) sponice-shing derbies each February.

Black Lake, the largest of the IndianRiver Lakes, promises good North

Country ice angling for walleyes,northern pike and yellow perch. OneidLake is renowned for walleye and percice-bites. Jig for lake trout and salmoon Lake George with spectacularAdirondack Mountain views.

Find shing guides at NYS OutdoorGuides Association: nysoga.com.

NYSs Dept. of Environmental Conservatiposts Fishing Hotlines, tips and information licenses, safety and regulations:www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/shing.html

Bundle up and drop a line. Your catch ialready iced!

From the Atlantic Ocean toGreat Lake Erie, New Yorksworld-class winter shing luresanglers from near and far!

Winter anglers catch a variety of shperch, pickerel, northern pike andwalleyein waters across New York.The lower Niagara River, one of the bestwinter trout sheries on the continent,has brown trout; rainbow trout (includingsteelhead); lake trout; and Atlantic,Chinook, Coho and pink salmon.Trophy-sized steelhead winter in thewarmer rapids of Great Lakes tributaries.

In the Thousand Islands-Seaway region,

the Salmon and Oswego rivers boastspectacular shing, as do large streamslike the Genesee, Oak Orchard andBlack River. The deepest Finger Lakesseldom freeze. Shore shers are drawnto Watkins Glen Pier on Seneca Lakeand Taughannock Falls State Park onCayuga, great for catching landlockedsalmon, brown trout, bass and pansh.

Long Island hosts the Sportshing Expo,

at Nassau Coliseum in January, andthe I FISH NY Spring Fishing Festival,in Belmont Lake State Park each April.Tidal sections of some Long Islandrivers are open year-round for y shing,offering trophy-size trout. For extremeaction and adventure, join a charter forwinter cod shing off Montauk!

COOL CATCHES:

Winter

Fishingin NY!

Ice-shing opportunities aboundfrom smaller venues like Central NewYorks Glimmerglass State Park toLake Ontarios Sodus Bay, a 3,000-acresmrgsbord of pike, perch and walleye.Youll need an ice chisel, skimmer, line,hooks, sinkers and baitplus layers ofwarm clothing! The weather rangesfrom blustery cold to spring-like Marchdays, offering some of the seasons mostproductive shing. Be sure to check theice for safety.

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Why do snowmobilers loveNew York? For starters, theresabundant snow, 10,000 milesof trails, and breathtaking

scenery. From the Adirondacksto the shores of Lake Erie, youllnd great adventures, coolevents and warm welcomes!

Many routes connect towns whererider-friendly restaurants and innscater to snowmobilers. The Adirondackvillage of Old Forge, with over 500 milesof groomed trails and events like theannual Snodeo, is called the Snowmobile

Capital of the East.In the Thousand Islands-Seaway region,the vast Tug Hill Plateau boasts anaverage of 250 inches of lake-effect snowevery year. Winona State Forest, about anhour north of Syracuse, has endless milesof forested trails ideal for snowmobiling.

Groomed and marked trails wind aroundfrozen lakes and waterfalls in the FingerLakes, along the Grand Canyon of theEast in Greater Niagara, into the pristineAdirondacks, and over waves of rollinghills in Chautauqua-Allegheny.

Discover snowmobile trails and cozyaccommodations at more than 40 stateparks throughout New York. AlleganyState Park has 90 miles of groomedtrailsalong with 150 winterizedcabins and cottages. Letchworthoffers spectacular snowmobile trails,comfy cabins and a lodge. The parkscampground connects to the NYS

snowmobile trail system.

Plan your adventure before headingout. Check out the New York StateSnowmobile Association atwww.nysnowmobiler.com for informationon snowmobile clubs, events, rider-friendly inns, trail maps and helpful tips.

SNOWMOBILINGis Cool in New York State!

New DMV websites can help you get a NYregistration and pay trail fees quickly (seeMore Information). For a quick and easystart, join a club or try a snowmobile tourwith outtters such as Snow Tours Inc.

On the trails, youll see everything froma bold fresh perspective. Dress up warmand start your engines!


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More Information:DMV Snowmobile Registration/NYS Residents: dmv.ny.gov

DMV Snowmobile Registration/Out of State: dmv.ny.gov

NYS Snowmobile Trail System:www.dec.ny.gov

NYS Rider Training Programs:nysparks.com/recreation/ snowmobiles/education.aspx

NYS Parks: nysparks.com

SNOWMOBILE GEAR,TOURS & EQUIPMENTRENTALSHere are some places to get youstarted. For more, go to iloveny.comor nyssnowassoc.org.

Adirondack Mountain SportsIndian Lake (rentals)518/648-0215adirondackmountainsports.com

Clarks MarinaInlet (rentals)315/357-3231clarksmarina.com

Flat Rock InnLowville (rentals)315/376-2332atrockinn.net

Highmarket Sports

Constableville (rentals)315/397-2216highmarketsports.com

Kovach RentalsBrantingham315/348-4060kovachrentals.com

Lake Placid Snowmobiling Inc.Lake Placid (tours)518/523-3596lakeplacidsnowmobiling.com

Old Forge Sports ToursThendara315/369-3796

ofsporttours.comTimberview LodgeTurin (rentals)315/348-8400timberview.com

Village Rentals and SalesSpeculator (rentals and tours)518/548-RENTvillagerentalsny.com

Wolcott FarmsTrailside Lodge at Letchworth State ParkWarsaw (rentals)585/786-3504wolcottfarms.com


Rules of the Ride:- Never drink alcohol before or

during a drive.

- Respect landowners property;obey posted signs and stay onthe marked trail.

- Ride within your ability at a safeand prudent speed.

- Keep right, share the trail andyield to groomers.

- Be prepared for changing trailand weather conditions.

- Obey NYS snowmobiling laws.

- Wear appropriate attire anda helmet.

- Always check your brakes, fuel

and belt drive before going out.- Avoid frozen or seemingly

frozen waterways.

- Always ride with anothersnowmobiler.

IN SALAMANCA, ALLEGANY STATE PARKS UPDATEDGROUP CAMP 5 CAN HOLD UP TO 72 PEOPLE IN 18 CABINSAND BOASTS NEW RESTROOM AND BATHING FACILITIESPLUS AN UPDATED MESS HALL. FOR MORE INFORMATION,CALL 800/456-2267 OR VISIT ENCHANTEDMOUNTAINS.COM/ PLACE/ALLEGANY-STATE-PARKS-GROUP-CAMP-5


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NEW YORK CITY

Prospect Park, Brooklyn. Two brand-new ice-skating

rinks; 585-acres. Events, food trucks. prospectpark.org/visit/activities/ice-skating

The Rink at Bryant Park Winter Village, Manhattan.Free ice-skating, skate rentals, lockers, lessons,shows and special events. Behind the New YorkPublic Library in midtown, the 170 x 100 rink isperfect for a daytime glide or a spin under the stars!bryantpark.org/things-to-do/wintervillage.html

The Rink at Rockefeller Center, Manhattan. Oneof the citys most celebrated traditions. Swirl andtwirl with bustling crowds and sparkling lights asbackdrop. With room for only 150 skaters at a time,its an intimate experience. r ockefellercenter.com/ tour-and-explore/the-rink-at-rockefeller-center

Trump-Wollman Rink in Central Park, Manhattan.Gliding across the ice is magical in Central Park,with the city skyline in the background.wollmanskatingrink.com

Glide, Slide and Twirl!Skating across New York

LONG ISLAND

Harborfront Park, Port Jefferson. Waterfront

ice-skating rink in a village of charming shops andcozy cafes. portjeff.com/featured-events/ice-skating

HUDSON VALLEY

Bear Mountain Ice Rink, Bear Mountain. Iceskating at the state park, beside the Bear MountainInn and Carousel. bearmountainicerink.com

Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz. LakesideVictorian castle has a covered ice-skating rink.Named Americas #1 Resort Spa by Conde NastTraveler! mohonk.com/activities/dayguests/winter

THE CATSKILLS

Villa Roma Resort, Callicoon. Outdoor fun on-site

includes ice-skating and skiing. Named a Top 10Family Resort by ResortsandLodges.com. villaroma.com

Windham Mountain Adventure Park, WindhamFamily fun, day and night. Grab a hot cocoa inSliders Caf before lacing up your ice skates at the120 by 60 skating rink! windhammountain.com/ events-activities/adventure-park

CAPITAL-SARATOGA

Empire State Plaza Ice Rink, Albany. Free ice-skating in a reecting pool thats transformed intoan ice-skating rink in winter! Bring your skates orrent some on-site. winter.empirestateplaza.org/ empire-skate-plaza-ice-rink

Pineridge Cross Country Ski Area, East PostenkMiles of groomed wooded trails include uniqueskating trails, lighted for moonlight glides. pineridgexc.com

Saratoga Spa State Park, Saratoga Springs. Winactivities in the historic park include ice-skatingand ice-hockey. nysparks.com/parks/saratogaspa

THE ADIRONDACKS

Lake George Winter Carnival, Lake George.Winter fun every weekend in February includesice-skating, ice-shing and ice-sculpting.lakegeorgewintercarnival.com

Olympic Speed Skating Oval, Lake Placid. Skate with High Peaks views at the OlympicCenter Sports Complex, site of the 1932 and 1980Olympic Winter Games. International competitions,USA Hockey and Smuckers Stars on Ice.whiteface.com/facilities/olympic-center

THOUSAND ISLANDS-SEAWAY

Thompson Park, Watertown. Historic Olmsted-designed gem with ice skating, sledding and cross-country ski trails. watertown-ny.gov/index.asp?NID=14

CENTRAL NEW YORK

Glimmerglass State Park, Cooperstown. Ideal fowinter sports including ice-skating and ice-shing.nysparks.com/parks/28

FINGER LAKES

Clinton Square Ice Rink, Syracuse. One of thecitys most popular spots; open-air skating in theheart of downtown. www.syracuse.ny.us/parks/ clintonSquareRink.html

GREATER NIAGARA

Rotary Rink at Fountain Plaza, Buffalo. Free ice-skating; beautiful skyline views.buffaloplace.com/rotaryrink

CHAUTAUQUA-ALLEGHENYAllegany State Park, Salamanca. Ice-skating,ice-shing and other winter sports.nysparks.com/parks/1/details.aspx

In ancient times, skateswere made of bone or wood.

Today, ice-skatings still afavorite winter sport for fun,tness, challenge or just coolrelaxation. From RockefellerCenter in New York City, toLake Placids Olympic SpeedSkating Oval, to AlleganyState Park out west, New York presents some of the worldsgreatest places to get your

glide on! Ice-skate at resorts, ski mountains, cityrinks, state parks, lakes and ponds acrossNew York State. Many sites have rentals,refreshments, lessons and lockers available.For more information call 800/CALL-NYSor visit iloveny.com. Heres a sample toget you started: C

H U C K W A I N W R I G H T

CLINTON SQUARE ICE RINK,SYRACUSE


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Celebratethe

Season!

Food & Drink

Winters a tastefulcelebrationfrom celebrity-owned restaurantsand markets inNew York City,to the HudsonValleys artisancheeses andInternational Pickle Festival,to award-winning ice winesalong the Niagara Wine Trail.

For starters, theres endless variety:ne dining in restaurants with world-famous chefs, original New York Pizza,

New Skete Monasterys heavenlycheesecakes, Saratoga Chips,Utica Greens, Genesee MonksBread, Buffalo Wings at the Anchor

Bar (where they were invented), andfresh-tapped maple syrup at farmsacross New York. Award-winning

wineries and breweries offer seasonalspecialties, from Long Island to Lake Erie.

Seaside to mountaintop, the settingsare just as diverse. Enjoy seafood withan ocean view on Long Island, dinneraprs ski at an Adirondacks resort, or

Peint O Gwrw, an authentic Welsh pubin Chatham, with reside dining andseasonal beers from Chatham Brewing just down Main Street.

Ski Whiteface, the greatest vertical inthe East, and then follow the intoxicatiaroma to OscarsAdirondack Smoke Housein Warrensburg, famous forsmoked meats and cheeses.The legendary NoonmarkDiner in Keene serves home-made soups and fresh-bakedpies. Owned by the founders of ColdRiver Coffee Company, Blue Moon Cain Saranac Lake features fresh-roastedbrews and locally sourced foods likeHigh Peaks Herdmaster, a regionalorganic cheese.

Its the prime season to taste some ofthe worlds best ice wines along theNiagara Wine Trail. A half-hours drivefrom Buffalos acclaimed art museumstheaters and chicken wings, it was justrated New Yorks most cutting-edgewine region by the New York Times.Nearby, you can visit Niagara Falls StatPark; open year-round, its a frostedwonderland in winter!

Beside Great Lake Ontario in theThousand Islandsa haven for iceshing and cross-country skiingSackets Harbor Brewing Company

pairs upscale pub fare with original crabeers brewed on-site.

See page 56 of the Summer section andvisit iloveny.com for more informationgreat New York culinaryadventures.

cheesecake at a New York City landmarkafter a Broadway show. Sample LunarNew Year specialties in Chinatown orlatkes at Katzs, NewYork Citys oldest deli.With Carnegie Hallnext door and LincolnCenter down the street,the historic Russian TeaRoom attracts actors, dancers andmusicians with classic cuisine and poshOld World ambiance.

Dine elegantly in the Hudson Valleyat the Mohonk Mountain House,voted Americas #1 Resort Spa, and theCulinary Institute, offering classes oninternational specialties, from Christmascookies to Valentine treats and Irishsoda bread. Hidden gems include


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Shoppingsin Season!

Along with happy memories,theres plenty more to bringback from a New York getaway.From forward fashions inNew York City to AmishCountry crafts in Chautauqua,fabulous nds make greatsouvenirs and holiday gifts!

New York Citys amazing variety runsfrom superstores like Barneys andBergdorf Goodman to pop-up holidaymarkets and the indoor Brooklyn Flea,where over 100 vendors sell everythingFifth Avenue, New York City

from artisan cheeses to vintage jewelry.Take a stroll along fashionable FifthAvenue to see museum-quality windowdisplays and try out all the latest gadgetsat the agship Apple Store.

Kids of all ages love the iconic toystores, F.A.O. Schwarz, the Lego Storeand Toys R Us Times Squareafun wonderland with a 60-foot Ferriswheel, life-size Barbie Dollhouseand 20-foot animatronic T-Rex. Befabulous at bargain prices with thelandmark Loehmanns and Century 21Department Stores designer fashions

and housewares. Find more on NYCShopping at nycgo.com

Great OutletsInspired by New York City, upscalemalls and outlet centers upstate arealways in fashion. A stunning three-story

glass atrium provides perfect weatheryear-round at Destiny USA. The hotnew megacenter in Syracuse combinesluxury retailers and premium outletsfrom Armani to Zumiezwith diverserestaurants and unique entertainmentincluding the worlds largest indoorropes course!

Cool Places,Hot Deals

ELLICOTTVILL


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The 100+ stores of Waterloo PremiumOutlets, also in the Finger Lakes, and theAdirondacks Factory Outlets of LakeGeorge put savings within easy reach ofski resorts. Woodbury Common in theHudson Valley boasts one of the worldslargest collections of designer outlets.

Find stylish clothes and gifts amid 165shops at Long Islands Tanger Outlets.Five minutes from the spectacularwaterfalls, Fashion Outlets of NiagaraFalls include 150 brand-name stores.

Town and CountryHudson Valleys historic river townssuch as Nyack, Rhinebeck and Hudsonare known for some of the nations bestantique hunting. Just outside Hudson,

shop for hand-crafted woolly gifts, herbs,fresh eggs and maple syrup at BlackberryHill Farm (blackberryhillfarm.org).Artists of Sugar Loaf Art & Craft Villagepresent their work in dozens of studios.Country roads in the Catskills lead tounique shops and art galleries in friendlyvillages like Woodstock.

Near Saratoga Springs visit theAlpacas of Breezy Hill Ranch amid

the picturesque farmland of Hebronto nd soft, non-itchy woolies, fromscarves to Teddy bears. For hours, eventsand tours, call 518/854-3680 or seealpacasofbreezyhillranch.com.

Find unique Adirondack regional crafts,from baskets to rustic-style furniture,in Bolton Landing, Saranac Lake andother mountain villages. Hotspots forlocal specialties and ne craftsmanshipalso include Cornings GafferDistrict, Buffalos historic Allentownneighborhood and Broadway Market,Troys Gristmill Antique Center, and EastAuroras restored Roycroft Campus.

Find shopping information at iloveny.com

ELMWOOD AVENUE,BUFFALO

EMERSON PLAMOUNT TREMP

IN THE CATSKIL

C O U R T E S Y B U F F A L O

C V B / N A N C Y J

. P A R I S I

FIFTH AVENUE,NEW YORK CITY

R U D I V O N

B R I E L


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Inspired by New York City, the

worlds entertainment capital,Upstate theaters shinebright! From Long Island toBuffalo, historic theaters andcutting-edge art centers lightup winter nights with world-class music, dance, comedyand theaterfrom opera totop Broadway shows.

Long Island sets the stage for great

entertainment. Stony Brooks StallerCenter features artists such as theGrammy-winning Emerson StringQuartet, Bill Cosby, travelingBroadway musicals and Jim HensonsSid the Science Kid! 631/632-2787;stallercenter.com

Nearby, the Tilles Center presentsrenowned artists like Kristin Chenoweth,Ben Vereen, Zubin Mehta & the Israel

Philharmonic, the Duke EllingtonOrchestra, and fully-staged operas,ballet, Broadway and childrenstheater. Holiday shows includeHandels Messiah and the Long IslandPhilharmonics traditional New YearsEve Concert, concluding with a ball

drop as the audience sings Auld Lang

Syne. 516/299-3100; tillescenter.org

Frank Gehrys architecturally bolddesign of the Fisher Center at BardCollege almost steals the show!Fortunately, the music, theater,dance and opera are stunning too!845/758-7900; shercenter.bard.edu

Majestic theaters in Capital-Saratogainclude Proctors in Schenectady(proctors.org) and Albanys Palace(palacealbany.com), presenting anannual holiday favorite, the MoscowBallets Great Russian Nutcracker.World-class musicians love to play inthe acoustically perfect 1875 Troy MusicHall (troymusichall.org) and innovativeEMPAC Center. empac.rpi.edu

In Utica, the Stanley Theatres Mexicanterra cotta and tiled mosaic exteriorholds a lavish gold-leaf Baroqueinterior, with Hapsburg lions anda multitude of angels and cherubs.Concerts and shows feature acclaimedmusicians, dance and theater.315/724-1113;thestanley.org

Rochesters celebrated Geva TheatreCenter tickles your funny bone withunique improve, comedians likeJerry Seinfeld, and lively comedies.Other highlights: musicals, dramasand holiday classics. 585/232-4382;gevatheatre.org

A wonderful world of puppetsentertains and touches the heartsof both children and adults, at theOpen Hand Theater in Syracuse.Bonus: Nearby, Syracuses Little Italyhas amazing cafes and bakeries!315/476-0466; openhandtheater.org

The Mulroy Civic Center Theaters,in Syracuses stunning three-blockOncenter, present the renownedSyracuse Operas fully-stagedproductions, top musical acts likethe Goo Goo Dolls, and a series of

touring Broadway shows. 315/435-8000;oncenter.org

Broadway comes to Buffalos theaterdistrict to spice up the season! Greatshows at Sheas Performing ArtsCenter are highlighted by their popularBroadway Series, featuring six fully-staged productions. 716/847-1410;sheas.org

All this and weve barely brushedthe footlights! Visit iloveny.com forinformation on over 100 regionaltheaters and performing arts centersacross the state. Let New Yorksnorthern stars light up your winter!

Upstate TheaterBright Lights, Big Entertainment!

OPEN HAND THEATER,SYRACUSE

PROCTORS THEATER,SCHENECTADY

J O H N D O W L I N G

C I N D Y R U G G I E R I


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As ski season winds down, its timefor spring action! Theres mountainbiking on ski trails (lifts take you andyour bike up), wild whitewater raftingand rock-climbing. Shoot down world-class rapids of the Hudson RiverGorge, rated a Top 10 US whitewatertrip, or Moose River, called the mostintense whitewater tour in the East!The gentler Sacandagas even popularwith younger groups. Expert guides inthe Adirondacks include BeaverbrookOuttters (beaverbrook.net). Outttersrafting the dramatic Black River Canyon,near Watertown, include B.O.B. Rafting.bobrafting.com

Just 90 miles north of Manhattan,expert guides like Mountain Skillsshow rock climbers the ropes in thefamous Gunksthe East Coasts greatest

climbing area a/k/a the ShawangunkMountains. They also lead waterfallrappelling and mountaineering in thelegendary Catskills and hiking amid thebreathtaking Adirondack High Peaks!mountainskills.biz

As the Snow Melts Spring Action Begins!


When trout season opens on April 1,anglers ock to legendary streams in the

Catskills and Adirondacks for some ofthe nations best shing. Get tips at theCatskill Fly Fishing Center (cffcm.net).Catch super-size chinook salmon in LakeOntario from late April through May.The Finger Lakes, Thousand Islands-Seaway and Montauks surf are alsoshing hot spots. Local tackle shops canhook you up with a license and guide.See DECs website for information:www.dec.ny.gov/outdoor/shing.html

On Maple Weekends, in March, over 100maple farms from the Hudson Valleyto Chautauqua offer syrup-makingdemonstrations, tours, tasting and familyfun. Sweet! mapleweekend.com

Spring events are in full bloom! In ApNew York Citys Tribeca Film Festival

screens over 200 movies, including wopremieres. Thousands of exotic orchidperfume the air at New York BotanicalGardens Orchid Show, March to AprilFrom April to mid-May, the BrooklynBotanic Gardens cherry blossom festivis another NYC rite of spring. nycgo.c

In May, stroll amid thousands of colorfblooms during Albanys Tulip Festivaland Rochesters fragrant Lilac Festival

Its also a perfect season for golf andtennis at full-service resorts across NewYork. Batter-up as baseball season openor catch the excitement of NASCARraces starting in April at Watkins GlenInternational. theglen.com

Find more information at iloveny.com

Dont fret when the snowmelts. New York offers greatadventures in every season!Springtime brings fresh-blooming funfrom wildwhitewater rafting and fastmountain biking, to world-class shing, fragrant owershows and the sweetestmaple festivals!

MAPLE SUGARINGIN BAINBRIDGE

M O U N T A I N B I K I N G A T S K I P LA T T E K I LL


30/30

New York City11/27 | 88th Annual Macys Thanksgiving DayParade | Manhattan (W-24) | Giant balloons,oats, marching bands and celebritieskick off the holiday season; world-famousextravaganza. macys.com/parade

12/3 | Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting |Manhattan (W-24) | Decorated with more than30,000 multi-colored, energy-efficient LEDlights, and crowned by a Swarovski star. Liveentertainment. rockefellercenter.com

12/31 | Times Square New Years EveCelebration & Ball Drop | Manhattan (W-24) |Celebrities, music, dazzling pyrotechnics andabout a million people. timessquarenyc.org

3/17 | St Patricks Day Parade | Manhattan(W-24) | 250,000 marchers: bagpipers,marching bands from around the world; NYCtradition since 1762. nycstpatricksparade.org

Long IslandEarly Dec | Dickens Festival | Port Jefferson(V-27) | Victorian holiday marketplace, food,music, carriage & trolley rides, historic housetours, parade. portjeff.com

Mid Feb-Mid Mar | Jazz on the Vine,Winterfest | Huntington (V-31, 32) | Six week-ends of jazz, activities and wine tasting onLong Islands East End. liwinterfest.com

Early Dec | Christmas in the Village | MonroeT-23) 19th-century music and holiday festivi-ties. Museum Village. museumvillage.org

The CatskillsNov 28-Dec 24 | Jeffersonville HolidayFestivities | Jeffersonville (R-20) | Season-longcelebration: sleigh rides on Main St, breakfastwith Santa, food, shopping, special events.jeffersonvilleny.com

Capital-SaratogaEarly Dec | NYS Holiday Tree Lighting & Fire-works Albany (M-24) | Festival marketplace,music, family fun, train show, chocolate fest.Empire State Plaza. empirestateplaza.org

12/7 | Troy Victorian Stroll | Troy (M-24) |Annual holiday tradition in historic downtown:music, entertainment, trolley tours, vendors,shopping. victorianstroll.com

Mid-Feb | Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show andSale | Albany (M-24) | Vendors display andsell gems, jewelry, minerals and fossils. Food.www.nysm.nysed.gov/programs/minerals

The Adirondacks12/12-14 | Lake Placid Holiday Village Stroll |Lake Placid (E-23) | Childrens activities, specialevents, nightlife, shopping, dining specials and entertainment options.lakeplacid.com/holidays

Feb | Lake George Winter Carnival |Lake George Village (I-24) | Winter funfestivities every weekend: races, rides, cook-off, parade. lakegeorgewintercarnival.com

Thousand Islands-SeawayMid-Nov-Dec | 20th Annual Festival of TreesClayton (E-15) Thousand Islands Museum.timuseum.org

12/3 | Christmas in Cape Vincent |Cape Vincent (F-14) | Christmas parade(1pm), caroling, tree lighting, dance, breakfastwith Santa at Aubreys Inn. 315/654-3774;capevincent.org

Late Jan-Early Feb | Massena Winter Carnival |Massena (B-20) | Dog sled races, 5-K run,hockey tournaments, family fun, reworks,parade. massenachamber.com

Central New York

11/28-29 | Thanksgiving at The FarmersMuseum | Cooperstown (M-20) | 1845-styleholiday music, fun, decorations, food andshopping. farmersmuseum.org

2/TBA | Cooperstown Winter Carnival |Cooperstown (M-20) | Family fun, parade andreworks. cooperstowncarnival.org

Finger Lakes11/14-1/4 | Lights on the Lake | Liverpool(K-15) | Two mile long drive-through show.

Mid Feb | Syracuse Winterfest | Syracuse (L-Indoor and outdoor events, cook-offs,competitions. syracusewinterfest.com

Greater Niagara11/6-9 | Christmas in the Country |Hamburg (M-5) | Holiday internationalartisan marketplace, ranked in AmericasTop 5; draws more than 55,000. Fairgrounds.yuletideinthecountry.com

11/27-Dec | Festival of Lights |Hamburg (M-5) | Drive through light displaythe-fairgrounds.com

12/5-7, 12-14 | Holiday Happening | Appleto(J-6) | Celebrates the season; Tickets includetasting and an ornament at each winery onthe trail. Niagara Wine Trail. niagarawinetrail.or

3/17 | St. Patricks Day Parade | Buffalo(L,M-5) | buffalostpatricksdayparade.com

Chautauqua-Allegheny11/7-9, 14-16 | Harvest Wine Weekends |Forestville (N-4) | Sample autumn farepaired with wine at wineries along Lake ErieWine Trail. 877/326-6561;lakeeriewinecountry.org

12/6 | Christmas Stroll | Ellicottville (O-6) |Arrival of Santa. Living Nativity. Camel andthe Reindog parade! ellicottvilleny.com

3/TBA | Ellicottville Winter Carnival |Ellicottville (O-6) | Torchlight parade,

official 2014-2015 new york state travel guide - winter

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