A Cozy Recipe and Seasonal Adventures Across the Tri-State Area

Winter transforms the Tri-State Area into something truly special. Snow-dusted landscapes, glowing light displays, and a full calendar of seasonal activities make New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut an ideal place to embrace the colder months rather than hide from them.

Whether you’re planning a weekend outing, looking for a family-friendly adventure, or simply searching for ways to enjoy the season closer to home, this guide highlights some of the best winter experiences across the region—starting with a cozy recipe to warm things up.

Warm Up With Our Favorite Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Nothing pairs with winter quite like a mug of rich, homemade hot chocolate. This creamy peppermint version is easy to make and perfect for sharing after a day outdoors—or enjoying by the fire.

Ingredients
• 4 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 8 oz dark chocolate, chopped
• 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 3 tablespoons sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. Heat the milk and cream in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.

2. Whisk in the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt until fully dissolved.

3. Add the chopped chocolate and stir until smooth and melted.

4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla and peppermint extracts.

5. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or mini marshmallows.

6. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Makes 4–6 servings.

Regional Winter Activity Guide

From outdoor adventures to festive lights and indoor escapes, here are some of the best ways to enjoy winter across the Tri-State Area.

New York

Bronx County

Experience the magic of the season at Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights, or lace up your skates for a classic winter outing at Kips Bay.

Dutchess County

Bundle up for a winter visit to Trevor Zoo, enjoy skating at McCann Ice Arena, or go sledding through Bowdoin Park.

Orange County

Glide across the ice at Smith’s Clove Park, or hit the slopes at Victor Constant Ski Area and Mount Peter Ski Area.

Putnam County

Make some figure-eights at Brewster Ice Arena, or explore winter sports and scenic trails at Clarence Fahnestock Memorial State Park and Thunder Ridge Ski Area.

Rockland County

Browse local vendors at the Nyack Farmers Market, or head indoors for ice skating and climbing at Palisades Center.

Ulster County

Hit the slopes at Belleayre Mountain, enjoy the drive-through lights at A Frosty Fest, or skate at Rondout Ice Rink.

Westchester County

Try maple sugaring at Muscoot Farm, attend a Star Party at Ward Pound Ridge Reservation, drive through Westchester Winter Wonderland, or stay warm indoors at Movement Valhalla.

New Jersey

Bergen County

Enjoy seasonal fun at Bergen County Winter Wonderland, ski locally at Campgaw Mountain, or experience year-round snow at Big Snow American Dream.

Essex County

Explore winter activities at Mountain Creek, visit the Newark Winter Village, or enjoy a seasonal light display at Turtle Back Zoo.

Morris County

Attend Brookhollow’s Barnyard Under the Stars, skate at Mennen Arena, or snowshoe through Tourne County Park.

Passaic County

Lace up at Ice Vault Arena, or enjoy cross-country skiing at Garret Mountain Reservation.

Sussex County

Visit the Skylands Stadium Christmas Light Show, skate above freezing at Crystal Springs Resort Glice Skating, or get outdoors at Swartswood State Park.

Connecticut

Fairfield County

Take in winter scenery at Devil’s Den Preserve, enjoy skating at WPAL Rink, or stay warm indoors at Rock Climb Fairfield.

Embrace the Season

Winter in the Tri-State Area offers something for everyone—outdoor adventures, festive traditions, and cozy moments at home. Whether you’re exploring a new trail, revisiting a favorite local spot, or warming up with hot chocolate, the season is full of opportunities to slow down and enjoy where you live.

Looking for more local guides and lifestyle inspiration? We’re always here to help you make the most of every season.