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Best Winter Trips in New England – Magical!

New Englanders are a special breed—instead of hiding from the cold, they enjoy it. As someone born and raised in Connecticut, I get it. Our Puritan roots make it difficult to just sit by the lit hearth and relax.

Instead, we’re bundled up, ready to brave the elements for some fun. And what fun it is—from carving ice sculptures with chainsaws to jumping, almost naked, into frigid bodies of water during the Polar Plunge. Yes, it sounds crazy, but that’s the charm.

Winter here isn’t just about enduring the weather—it’s a celebration. Unusual events turn the wintertime into something glorious. Whether it’s watching pros turn ice into art or taking part in a quick, unique winter getaway, there’s no hard time doing nothing. If you’re looking for bizarre things most people would avoid, New England delivers.

Best New England Winter Getaways

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival: A Historic Frosty Festival

Step into a winter wonderland at New England’s oldest event, where history meets icy magic. Dating back to the late 1800s, this annual extravaganza (January 31-February 9) began as a way for tuberculosis patients to escape the monotony of winter months by breathing fresh, cool mountain air. Today, it’s a dazzling celebration featuring:

A breathtaking Ice Palace built from 2,000 blocks of local ice
Whimsical competitions like the Ladies Frypan Toss
Parades with elaborate floats that light up the night
This year’s Music Legends theme calls for creative (and warm) costumes—perfect for this unique winter getaway.

Stay Here: Saranac Waterfront Lodge, Hotel Saranac

Dartmouth Winter Carnival: College Chaos in the Cold

Dubbed the “Mardi Gras of the North” by National Geographic, this Hanover, NH tradition is pure bizarre fun. Watch students showcase physical prowess in human dog sled mushes or downhill canoeing (yes, on snow!). The polar bear plunges into icy waters and costumed ski racing will leave you equal parts amazed and laughing—just like the Animal House antics that inspired it.

Stay Here: Hanover Inn, Six South St. Hotel, Norwich Inn

Ice Castles: A Frozen Fairy Tale Come to Life

One of only four such installations in America, this North Woodstock attraction (open January, weather permitting) feels plucked from a storybook. Wander through:

LED-lit ice sculptures and walk-through tunnels
Frozen slides and caverns that glow at night
The Polar Pub, serving winter-themed alcoholic beverages
For romance, book the private Arctic Alcove—a date night surrounded by shimmering ice.

Muddy Paw Sled Dogs: Wilderness Adventure

At this Jefferson, New Hampshire kennel (founded 2007), meet 80 sledding dogs—many rescues—eager to show off their skills. Choose between:

A wild ride through local scenery
Mushing lessons to steer these furry beasts yourself
No experience? No problem! This bucket-list experience welcomes all ages for the ride of your life.

Stay Here: Mountain View Grand Resort, Omni Mount Washington, The Glen House