While many think the best spot in New York is in New York City, many often overlook the unique places that the rest of New York offers. With winter just around the corner and snow not far behind, these locations turn into stunning winter wonderlands. 

Camp Orenda, Johnsburg, NY 

Just because you want to get off-grid doesn’t necessarily mean you have to give up your essential luxuries. David Webb, the founder of Camp Orenda, believes that while you may want to get away on a camping trip, you do not have to sacrifice your favorite creature comforts. Only four hours from Manhattan, you can get all of the everyday homegrown camping experiences while still being able to take a walk to the spa if you want. Enjoy your meals over an open fire while still being able to partake in a hot shower at the end of your adventure-filled day. Webb’s cabins are available all year round. 

The Graham & Co. Phoenicia, NY

Is camping not quite your vibe? How about a Brooklynite upstate hipster B&B instead? The work of four artists, this refurbished 1940s style charmer dubbed The Grahm & Co Motel, gives some outstanding design credentials to the Catskill Mountain town of Phoenicia. When guests walk in, they are greeted with a free beer and then led to one of the 20-single, double, or “bunk-style” rooms that make up the stunning sleepaway. With features like cowhide rugs, reclaimed wooden furniture, glass jar lamps, and even a Trivoli radio, this motel doesn’t miss a beat. Stop in for breakfast at the local diner also owned by a Brooklyn transplant. Can’t decide what to eat? Try the duck and grits skillet, and you won’t be disappointed. With streets lined with small boutiques and a mecca for artists, this small town is a place you will never forget. 

Whiteface Lodge, Lake Placid, NY

The stunning Whiteface Lodge retreat is every city slicker’s wilderness getaway dream. With 30 acres of backcountry scattered with pools, hot tubs, and even an onsight bowling alley, movie theatre, and spa, you will never want to leave. Take a stroll out to the resort grounds, and you’ll find an array of outdoor activities, from black diamond skiing at the Whiteface Mountain to flying down to the Olympic venues at the Lake Placid Toboggan Chute. When you’ve decided you’re ready for dinner, you can visit the resort’s rustic Kanu restaurant and have your pick of pacific cod scampi and Kobacha squash risotto.