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Romantic Things to Do in the Adirondacks in Winter: Cozy Getaways & Activities

Romance Your Sweetheart in the Adirondacks

From winter carnivals to ice bars to cozy bars, the are plenty of romantic things to do in the Adirondacks in the winter! Explore ideas below.

Sip Cool Cocktails at Outdoor Ice Bars

crowd at ice bar

One of the highlights of the winter season in the Adirondacks is the ice bars! These popular attractions in the Lake George area are crafted from ice, and they only show up during January and February.

people at ice bar

Get ready for delicious winter cocktails, spectacular ice sculptures, and more at these unique bars - perfect to experience with a partner.

Get Cozy at Indoor Bars

two beers by a fire

If ice bars sound too cold for you, warm up inside of the region's coziest bars instead. Some of them even have a fireplace, so you and your favorite person can enjoy drinks together in front of a roaring fire.

fire in fireplace and people in bar

There's nothing like the ambiance of a rustic Adirondack bar or restaurant after a long day of winter activities - especially if there's a fireplace involved!

Go on a Winter Tour at Ausable Chasm

gorge in winter

You know what's romantic? Avoiding summer crowds at a popular attraction so you and your sweetheart have the entire place practically to yourselves. A few of the most dazzling attractions in the Adirondacks are accessible in the winter and offer a different experience than most tourists get during the warmer months.

We recommend Ausable Chasm, where you and your partner can explore rock and ice formations at the "Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks." This place is gorgeous and worth visiting at any time of year!

Hold Hands While Ice Skating or Catch a Hockey Game

couple ice skates

You don't need to be an expert figure skater to enjoy ice skating with your favorite person! Indoor and outdoor skating rinks can be found throughout the region, from the SUNY Plattsburgh Field House to the Wilmington Youth Center. You could also skate on a frozen pond if you have skates to bring with you and take ice safety precautions.

adirondack thunder ice hockey game

Speaking of ice skating, if you'd rather spectate than participate, check out an Adirondack Thunder ice hockey game together in Glens Falls, just south of the Adirondack Park. The Lake Placid Olympic Center also hosts various ice hockey events.

Watch Fireworks & Explore an Ice Palace at Winter Carnivals

Winter carnivals take place all season long in the Adirondacks, but which ones should you check out around Valentine's Day? Here are some great options in early February:

Lake George Winter CarnivalThe popular Lake George Winter Carnival takes place every weekend in February. Plan a romantic trip during one of the weekends and look forward to games, food, activities, fireworks, and more! For 2025 they're also running the first weekend in March.

couple selfie at ice palace

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival: The always epic Saranac Lake Winter Carnival will take place January 31 to February 9, 2025 and will include the ice palace, a parade, and more.

Embark on a Horse-Drawn Carriage or Sleigh Ride

horse drawn carriage ride

The Lake George Winter Carnival has horse-drawn carriage rides around the Village, which is always a fun activity, but you are with a group. If you want to be really romantic, opt for a private, horse-drawn carriage ride with a company like Lake Clear Lodge & Retreat in Lake Clear, or Country Dreams Farm in Plattsburgh.

Even if there isn't a ton of snow, you'll love getting close with your favorite person under a blanket as you're being whisked through an Adirondack landscape.

Browse fireplace lodging and book a cozy stay >>

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woman in hat poses in front water
About the Author: Erin Nudi Erin is an avid reader, yogi, jogger, and hiker living in Queensbury. When she's not perusing books at Northshire, Owl Pen Books, or Beldame Books, you can find her at a local event or park with her family.