Throughout the year, it is typically the summer season that steals the spotlight for great vacationing. However, in the areas of the U.S. that experience the four seasons, the often overlooked winter months are making a comeback.

These colder months deserve special attention considering the abundance of fun activities that one can only experience when temperatures are frosty and snow is on the ground. Oneida County, located in central New York, is a hidden gem when it comes to winter getaways. Oneida County is truly worth exploring, as it brings together all of the great seasonal sports and activities without the outrageous expenses or crowded ski lodges of other regions in the country.

Oneida County is just a tank of gas away from several major metropolitan areas including Boston, Philadelphia, Ottawa, Montreal and New York City. Winter is the perfect time to escape the grey slush and icy sidewalks of a major city for a county at the base of Adirondacks that promises a breath of fresh air and plenty of pristine white snow. There are more than a few winter activities to enjoy on a winter getaway to Oneida County:

Val Bialas offers sledding, tubing, ice skating and more. Located in Utica, NY this winter wonderland is the perfect place for the whole family to enjoy an all-in-one winter experience. And for the snowboarding daredevil, Val Bailas offers the Big Air Bag that allows one to jump and flip into an inflatable landing. When tired out from all the winter action, one can take a break to enjoy a scenic winter hay ride through the snow. A unique fact about Val Bialas: there are two cities in the United States with ski areas wholly contained in their borders and Utica is one of them.

We can’t forget the classic and beloved winter activity: downhill skiing. Woods Valley Ski Area offers skiing for the beginner, advanced and expert skier. The ski lodge has been around for more than 40 years and is a favorite among New York skiing enthusiasts. As an extra perk, they’ve recently opened a tubing park that stays lit for fun night tubing!

For the true winter outdoorsmen, Oneida County has three ice fishing lakes available for this fun activity – Oneida Lake, Kayuta Lake and Delta Lake State Park. Among ice fishermen, these three spots have created many lifelong memories and stories that are heard year after year--some of which have become urban legends in the county. Bundle up and prepare for your biggest catch of the season at one of these stocked fishing lakes.

If you’re into snowmobiling, Oneida County boasts more than 500 miles of groomed snowmobiling trails - all maintained by the volunteer efforts of a dozen snowmobiling clubs throughout the county. There’s an entire association dedicated to snowmobiling in Oneida County (Oneida County Area Snowmobile Association). Lodging with trailheads for snowmobiling is available at The Beeches and at Headwaters Motor Lodge. When it comes to snowmobiling, they do not mess around.

As for lodging, you’ll find some of the most quaint and unique bed and breakfasts that are perfect for a cozy winter getaway. The Blueberry Brooke Inn is a picturesque B&B that sits among traversing snowy meadows and hiking trails. Inside you’ll find themed guestrooms such as the “Midsummers Night’s Dream” room and “Under the Tuscan Sun” room. Every morning, the owner cooks a breakfast feast made primarily with blueberries, which is the talk of the town.

At the Artful Lodger, guests can enjoy a bed and breakfast that doubles as a boutique art gallery. Full of local artwork that changes every few months, the décor within the bed and breakfast is a tourist site in itself. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch a local musician or talented guest playing at the grand piano that is at the center of the inn.

If you’re more of the hotel type, Hotel Utica is one for the history books. Historical legends and presidents (think FDR, Mickey Mantle, and Judy Garland) once graced the halls and lobby of this landmark that was recently renovated to restore the hotel to its original glory. There is no need to stay at a forgettable chain hotel during your visit. With many special lodging options available, you’re winter vacation will be all the more memorable.

Whether you’re already thinking about a winter vacation or are just now pondering the idea, Oneida County, NY is a wonderful, under the radar destination where you and your family will create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether your visit is two days or a week, your vacation will be so unforgettable that there’s a possibility you’ll be dreaming of your next winter getaway in the middle of July.

Getting There:

Syracuse Hancock International Airport is a Domestic Airport so you will have to clear Customs and Immigration at a Major Port of Entry before flying on to Syracuse Airport which is 33 miles from Oneida County.