Valentine’s Day is here, and in the Champlain Valley of New York, that means cozy vibes, snowy landscapes, and plenty of ways to celebrate love—whether it’s with a partner, family, friends, or even a little self-love. So bundle up, grab your warmest mittens, and let’s dive into a weekend full of winter magic and heartfelt moments.

Outdoor Adventures for the Adventurous Couple

1. Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing at Point au Roche State Park

Take a scenic snowshoeing or cross-country skiing adventure at Point au Roche State Park in Plattsburgh. The trails wind through snowy woods and along the frozen Lake Champlain shoreline, offering breathtaking winter views. It’s the perfect way to get your heart racing—both from the exercise and the romance!
Pro Tip: Pack a thermos of hot cocoa or mulled cider to share on a snowy bench overlooking the lake.

2. Ice Skating Under the Stars

Hold hands, laugh as you wobble, and maybe even sneak a kiss while gliding across the ice at the Plattsburgh City Oval. This outdoor skating rink has an old-school charm that will make your Valentine’s weekend feel like a scene from a rom-com. If you’d rather skate indoors, check out the Ameri-Can North Sports Center for public skating sessions.
Pro Tip: Bring a cozy blanket for a post-skate cuddle session on a nearby bench.

3. Snowy Scenic Drive & Covered Bridges

Take a scenic drive through the Champlain Valley’s charming backroads, where snow-covered farmlands and rustic red barns create a postcard-perfect setting. Drive along Route 9N for gorgeous winter views and stop by Ausable Chasm for a breathtaking look at the frozen waterfalls. If you’re up for a little winter hike, the trails offer a magical, snow-draped adventure.

Cozy Indoor Escapes for the Chill-Lovers

4. Wine & Cheese by the Fire at Amazing Grace Vineyard & Winery

Escape the cold and enjoy a cozy wine tasting at Amazing Grace Vineyard & Winery in Chazy, NY. Their local wines pair beautifully with a charcuterie board, making for a relaxing and delicious Valentine’s treat. The rustic atmosphere and warm hospitality make it a perfect spot for a romantic afternoon.
Pro Tip: Grab a bottle of your favorite wine to bring home for a cozy night in.

5. A Coffee Date & Sweet Treats at Chapter One Coffee & Tea

Warm up with a handcrafted latte and a homemade pastry at Chapter One Coffee & Tea in Plattsburgh. This charming café offers a perfect cozy escape, whether you’re on a first date, celebrating with a long-time love, or just treating yourself to a solo moment of indulgence.
Pro Tip: Write a love note on a napkin and leave it for your partner (or a future café visitor to find!).

Embrace the Winter Magic of the Champlain Valley

No matter how you celebrate, Valentine’s Weekend in the Champlain Valley of New York is full of charm, adventure, and romance. Whether you’re hitting the snowy trails, indulging in cozy comforts, or planning a special surprise, there’s no shortage of ways to make the weekend unforgettable.

So grab your favorite people (or just yourself!), bundle up, and embrace the magic of love in the heart of winter! ❄️❤️

Running through February 9, the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival is a historic festival featuring an Ice Palace, parades, and a plethora of fun events and competitions. Embrace the winter wonderland and join in the festivities.

DETAILS CAN BE FOUND HERE

For those ready to chase snowflakes and nostalgia, the Champlain Valley is serving up the holiday feels with a twist of outdoor fun. Over in Charlotte, VT, the iconic Adirondack Sleigh Rides are in full swing, taking families and couples through peaceful, snowy trails with breathtaking views of Lake Champlain. This one’s pure Vermont charm—don’t forget to bring a thermos of cider!

Feeling adventurous? Head to Northwoods Forest Trails in East Charleston, VT, where the Snowshoe Under the Stars Tour takes you through peaceful wooded paths illuminated by moonlight. Guided by local naturalists, the trek ends with a cozy bonfire where you can roast marshmallows and sip hot cocoa.

No holiday adventure is complete without a treat, so swing by Lake Champlain Chocolates in Burlington to grab a box of their new gingerbread chocolate truffles. Or, for a true hidden gem, check out The Nordic Nest in Middlebury for Scandinavian holiday pastries like krumkake and rosettes.

From snowy escapades to sweet indulgences, the Champlain Valley is an open invitation to celebrate the season in style. Pack your mittens, rally your crew, and make this holiday week one to remember!

The holiday season is lighting up the Champlain Valley like never before. This week, Burlington’s Festival of Lights is giving locals and visitors a reason to bundle up and hit the town. Wander through a winter wonderland of glittering light displays while sipping on hot cocoa from local faves like Speeder & Earl’s Coffee or Kru Coffee Collective.

If you’re feeling the need to stretch your legs, head to the outdoor ice rink at The Skating Oval in Plattsburgh, NY. This rink, located just across Lake Champlain, offers open skate sessions under the winter sky, making it a favorite for families and friends. Bring your skates or rent a pair for a truly magical experience close to home.

After the ice, don’t miss the Winter Lights at Shelburne Museum on December 23rd. It’s the perfect spot to grab locally-made gifts like hand-poured candles, wool scarves, and even small-batch maple liqueurs.

What could be better than a week filled with holiday vibes and a bit of fresh Champlain Valley air? Be sure to tag your adventures with #ChamplainHolidayGlow—this week is all about embracing local magic.

Continuing it’s 50-year run, the guesses continue to roll in on when the ice is out in the Northeast Kingdom’s Joe’s Pond. Last year, over 11,000 tickets were sold. Despite the warm weather, the ice is holding strong. Ticket sales continue to be brisk.

READ MORE ABOUT THIS 50-YEAR TRADITION COURTESTY OF WPTZ HERE

Snowblowers rev as volunteers lift blocks of ice used to make the bricks for the Saranac Lake Winter Carnival Ice Palace. This year’s Winter Carnival takes place February 2 – 11. For more information visit https://saranaclakewintercarnival.com

SEE THE FULL ARTICLE FROM THE PRESS REPUBLICAN AND MORE PICTURES FROM JACK LADUKE HERE

Jackson Lewis Rodriguez, a 13-year-old from Rouses Point, New York, was granted his wish in December 2022 to practice with the Anaheim Ducks, a professional hockey team in the National Hockey League. By sharing his story, Jackson was able to pay it forward by helping Make-a-Wish grant more wishes.

The Make-A-Wish chapter in Northern New York will continue accepting donations at the Champlain Centre until Saturday, Dec. 23. Read more courtesy of WPTZ:

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