NEWSLETTER
You don’t ski. But you’re tagging along with friends and family to the mountain. Have no fear! Here are seven New York State ski resorts with amazing things to do—no skis required.
Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines. Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available.
Originally published: 11/20/2019
Greek Peak (Finger Lakes)
Warm up at Cascades Indoor Waterpark, where a whitewater wave pool, interactive play structure, water basketball pool, and four rapid water slides will make you forget it's winter outside. For outdoor adventure sans skis, rent snowshoes and trek the scenic trails; Glide down the mountain from the comfort and convenience of a snow tube; Get your adrenaline going with a tour of four dual zip lines! Need a little TLC after that workout? Chill out or warm-up at Waterfalls Spa, where massages, facials, and nail services leave you feeling refreshed and ready for more adventure.
Holiday Valley (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Wind down at the Ellicottville Oasis Spa, where you can indulge in body therapy from massages to facials. Guests of the Tamarack Club can also enjoy the indoor/outdoor heated pool, hot tub, sauna, and exercise room. After, stop by the Holiday Valley Mountain Shops for outerwear, technical gear, and winter accessories. Interested in exploring? A quick cab to Ellicottville lets you stroll through the village where you'll find artistic, cozy vibes throughout the local shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Hunter Mountain (Catskills)
Want to feel the rush of the slopes without the skis? Take a thrilling ride down Hunter Mountain's nearly 1,000-foot-long tubing hill. Then hop aboard the "Magic Carpet" lift for a relaxing trip back up the hill for another exciting slide.
West Mountain (Adirondacks)
Living up to its name, Six Flags Great Escape Indoor Waterpark is your personal escape from the chilly slopes. A short drive from West Mountain, the park hosts 38,000 square feet of swirling, curling water rides at a balmy 82 degrees. Like so many great adventures, no experience is complete without a little R&R—check out Rejuvenations Spa Services down the road for massage therapy, nail, and skin care. If you find yourself missing the mountains, head back to West Mountain's Tube Park for a speedy shot down the snowy slopes.
Whiteface Mountain (Adirondacks)
Home to the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, non-skiers get their adrenaline rush at the Olympic Bobsled Experience, where you can plummet down the same icy tracks as the world's greatest racers. Later, experience the action first-hand at the Olympic Jumping Complex, where you can catch freestyle skiers demonstrating their skills, flips, and tricks. Join in on the excitement from February 9-11, 2024 for the Ski Jumping World Cup! The Jumping Complex is open year-round for visitors to soak in 360-degree panoramic views of the Adirondack High Peaks. Don't forget to skate the Olympic Oval, tour the Herb Brooks Arena, and relax at the mountain spa at Whiteface Lodge.
Windham Mountain Club (Catskills)
Need some fresh air? Hit up the tubing park during the day or under the night lights alongside some catchy tunes! Also at the park is a fleet of Arctic Cat snowmobiles just for kids to experience snowmobiling! Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab a bite on-site at one of Windham’s unique and delicious dining venues.
Peek ‘n Peak Resort & Spa (Chautauqua-Allegheny)
Relax, unwind, and rejuvenate at Peek ‘n Peak’s Serenity Spa! The spa is open to the public, and guests also receive a complimentary day pass for the pool. Treat yourself to a hot stone massage, youthful glow facial, couple’s clay body mask ritual, and many more services! Splash around in the indoor and outdoor pools and hot tubs, and break a sweat in the fitness center. Kids can find entertainment at the indoor play zone, right next to the indoor pool and hot tub area. The play zone features indoor turf, playground, and basketball hoops.
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