New York State is one of the greatest year-round destinations in the U.S., and it’s right on the doorstep for millions of Canadian travellers. In this edition of Take 5, I LOVE NY’s Charmaine Singh shares details about the state’s winter charms, tools for the trade and more.

1. What makes New York State such a go-to destination for winter travel? And is it primarily skiing, or is there more?

“New York State is a winter wonderland that goes far beyond skiing! Of course, we have world-class slopes in the Adirondacks, Catskills, and across the entire state, but winter in NY also offers charming small-town festivals, cozy fireside dining, iconic ice-skating rinks like Rockefeller Center in NYC, and breathtaking snow-covered landscapes perfect for photography, cross country and snowshoeing, hiking, or even a scenic train ride. Whether travellers are chasing adventure or looking for that magical winter getaway vibe, there’s truly something for everyone.”

2. Are there any special winter 2026 events or promotions in NY that Canadian travellers should have on their radar?

“Absolutely! Winter 2026 is packed with experiences, from the renowned Lake Placid Winter Festival and Saranac Lake Winter Carnival to the NYC Restaurant Week and Broadway Week. And for Canadians, select hotels and resorts are offering winter packages that include ski lift tickets, spa credits, or even culinary experiences. It’s the perfect time to experience New York in all its glory!”

3. How easy is it for Canadians, particularly in ON and QC, to get to NY? And how about from the rest of the country?

“Getting to New York is a breeze for Canadians! From Ontario and Quebec, it’s an easy drive across the border or a short flight to several destinations across the state. New York City, Buffalo, Albany and Rochester are all easily accessible, with cross-border train services and bus routes offering convenient ground travel options. For travellers from other provinces, New York is just a few hours away by air, with frequent flights to New York City and easy one-stop connections to Albany, Buffalo, and Rochester. Once there, car rental is widely available at airports and in major cities, making it simple to explore New York State at your own pace.”

4. What sort of tools and resources does I LOVE NY offer to its valued travel advisor partners?

“We love supporting our travel advisors! I LOVE NY offers a comprehensive suite of tools including up-to-date destination guides, customizable itineraries, digital marketing materials, and insider tips on seasonal experiences. We also host webinars and training sessions to help advisors stay ahead of trends, and our dedicated team is always on hand to provide personal support. Our goal is to make selling New York as easy and as exciting as it is visiting it!”

5. These are extraordinary times for travel between Canada and the U.S. What is I LOVE NY’s message for Canadian travellers and travel advisors for travel in 2026?

“We’re thrilled to welcome Canadians back to New York in 2026! Travel is easier than ever, and there’s no better time to rediscover the state’s diversity, from bustling cities to serene natural escapes. For advisors, we encourage you to inspire your clients with authentic experiences that go beyond the typical. And for travellers: embrace the magic, explore widely, and know that New York is ready to deliver memorable, safe and joyful winter adventures for everyone.”

For more information about travel to New York State, check out ILOVENY.com.

Lead image caption: Charmaine Singh, Account Director, I LOVE NY Canada