With 300 days of sunshine, world-class dining, a thriving cultural scene and endless outdoor adventure, Denver, Colorado is the perfect destination to for an epic vacation. Take advantage of the beautiful winter season and use the tips below to plan your next trip to the Mile High City. Along with classic favorites, there are plenty of great new restaurants, hotels and attractions to check out this year. Dine at new and award-winning restaurants Colorado state flags decorate a street in Denver by Logan Bonjean - Unsplash MICHELIN recognized 26 Denver restaurants in their inaugural and highly anticipated Colorado-based Guide this past September. The famously anonymous MICHELIN Guide inspectors selected a diverse range of restaurants across the city that exude culinary excellence. Denver joins Boulder, Aspen and Snowmass Village, the Town of Vail and Beaver Creek Resort in the Colorado MICHELIN Guide, the eighth Guide destination in North America. In addition to being the home of many fine-dining restaurants, the Denver area has a number of new and soon-to-open establishments that are worth checking out. Alama Fonda is a new restaurant by chef Johnny Curiel in the Lower Highlands Neighborhood north of Downtown Denver. The intimate space offers Mexican dishes deriving from Curiel's upbringing.After winning season five of Top Chef, Hosea Rosenberg opened Blackbelly Market in Boulder, which received a MICHELIN Green Star. Rosenberg is opening a second Blackbelly Market location on Tennyson Street in Denver in late February 2024.Corsica is planning to heat up the Denver restaurant scene this season, serving coastal French- and Italian-inspired shareable plates. The space will also feature wine, cocktails and aperitifs in what was once a warehouse transformed into a central bar and dining room with private dining options.A new concept in Lower Downton Denver (LoDo) is opening February 2024. Wonderyard Garden + Table is inspired by The Secret Garden and The Great Gatsby and will feature indoor and outdoor spaces with birdcage booths, teacup tables and a repurposed turntable “carousel." Of course, long-time favorites such as downtown's Tavernetta, Cherry Creek's Barolo Grill and many more serve up delicious meals in cozy environments this season and are a staple on any Denver itinerary. For a complete list of Denver's best restaurants, bars, breweries, distilleries and more, head to the Visit Denver. Book a trendy hotel stay A colorful mural in Denver by Pieter Van de Sande - Unsplash Denver's Kimpton Hotel Born rebranded as the Limelight Hotel in spring 2023. The Limelight Denver is under the operation of Aspen Hospitality, the hospitality division of Aspen Skiing Company. Conveniently located adjacent to Denver's Union Station, the hotel is the first urban location for the Limelight brand and joins the existing Limelight portfolio in Aspen and Snowmass, CO., and Ketchum, Idaho making it the perfect complement for a Colorado winter vacation. The new Acoma House, Denver's premier boutique art hotel, is in the vibrant Golden Triangle district. Guests can immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind experience as they step into 24 custom rooms, each thoughtfully designed by a unique artist. Head to the Halcyon in Cherry Creek for Denver's new rooftop skating experience complete with breathtaking views of the Mile High City. Guests can also gather for a dip in the rooftop hot tub, enjoy hot beverages and bites, warm blankets and more. Immerse yourself in the arts The Denver Art Museum by Acton Crawford - Unsplash The Denver Center for the Performing Arts (DCPA) boasts an impressive calendar of performances and events this season including Jesus Christ Superstar, Chicago, Cebollas and more. And do not miss DCPA's Off-Center's Space Explorers: THE INFINITE at the Hanger in Stanley Marketplace Feb. 3- May 5. The Denver Art Museum's (DAM) exhibit, Amoako Boafo: Soul of Black Folks is on display through Feb. 19. This is the debut solo exhibition for Ghanaian artist Amoako Boafo, featuring more than 30 of Boafo's creations between 2016 and 2022 telling stories about the beauty and complexity of Black life. While you are at the DAM, check out the All Stars: American Artists from The Phillips Collection through March 3, which highlights some of the best American art from one of the most celebrated collections in the United States. See landmark works by more than 50 artists, including Jackson Pollock, Georgia O'Keeffe, Jacob Lawrence, Childe Hassam and more. Meanwhile, the Museum of Contemporary Art's (MCA) exhibit Cowboy speaks to the museum's ambition to challenge, revise and reconceive how such a myth originated and might be probed in exciting, courageous and nuanced ways. It brings together loans and new commissions from 27 artists representing a wide range of perspectives, including Asian American, Latinx and Native American/Indigenous. The Museum of Illusions is new to downtown Denver. The space offers an intriguing visual, sensory and educational experience with illusions ranging from tried-and-true classics to the never-before seen. Guests will enjoy more than 80 visual and educational exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, optical illusions and immersive rooms that are designed to tease the senses and trick the mind. The season brings many blockbuster concerts to Ball Arena including Enrique Iglesias, Pitbull and Ricky Martin on Feb. 13, Nicki Minaj on March 3, and Madonna on March 19. For more intimate concerts, check out Denver's Gothic, Bluebird or Ogden theater's line-up. There is something for every music taste. And don't miss Icelantic's Return to the Rocks on April 19, 2024 with IceCube, The Game, BoneThugsNHarmony, and Living Legends. Learn more here. Enjoy family-friendly activities Snow adorns the lawn around the State Capitol building by Shelby Ireland - Unsplash Alongside new things in Denver, there are many beloved winter activities, events and traditions perfect for the whole family. Feel the energy at Ball Area this season with the 2023 NBA Finals Champions, the Denver Nuggets, the 2022 Stanley Cup winners, the Colorado Avalanche or the Colorado Mammoth lacrosse team. Bring the whole family along for your Denver adventure with a wide array of kid-friendly activities. Head to the Denver Zoo to see more than 3,000 animals including elephants, orangutans, lions and more. Visit the Denver Museum of Nature & Science to explore fossils and dinosaurs, ponder the mysteries of space at Gates Planetarium, discover Egyptian mummies and watch larger-than-life films at the Phipps IMAX 3D Theater. The Downtown Aquarium is a perfect spot for kids to awe at astounding marine life, feed the stingrays, pan for gold, see a mermaid show or become a marine biologist for a day. Experience winter in the Rockies Snow across the mountains and red rock around Denver by Ravi Patel - Unsplash Denver is the perfect winter destination, with a backdrop of the beautiful Rocky Mountains. Head northwest to the Boulder Flatirons or Rocky Mountain National Park to enjoy iconic stretches of scenic trails and spots that offer spectacular views. Try out cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in nearby Idaho Springs, Estes Park or Golden. Or hop on the Winter Park Express Ski Train to enjoy mountain adventures without the hassle of renting a car and driving on mountain roads. Service for the seasonal train began January 12 and will run through the weekend of March 29 with departures each Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The train leaves from downtown Denver at Denver Union Station at 7 am and arrives at the mountain at 9 am. The return trip departs Winter Park at 4:30 pm and arrives in Denver at 6:40 pm, so it is a great option for a weekend or day trip. Bring the whole family because kids ride for 50% off! After a full day of outdoor adventures, return to the city and have a feast at an award-winning restaurant, grab a craft beer along the Denver Beer Trail or explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods, teeming with arts, culture and urban flair. Browse adventure day trip ideas and more on the Visit Denver website.

This year, Mardi Gras falls on February 13, 2024—but you can catch parades, festivals, and celebrations starting weeks before the big day and, in some locations, the party even keeps going through the spring. Parade down coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras parade in Coastal Mississippi - courtesy of Play Coastal Missisippi Coastal Mississippi kicks off the 2024 Mardi Gras season with a stellar lineup of parades, balls, and specialty events beginning in January and ending on 'Fat Tuesday' February 13. Much loved Mardi Gras traditions, including colorful parades featuring costumed revelers, colorful beads, king cakes, and the vibrant rhythms of Zydeco music filling the air welcome Mardi Gras aficionados and new enthusiasts to enjoy unforgettable experiences and manageable gatherings in a family friendly atmosphere. Known for its picturesque beaches, coastal charm, and lively atmosphere, the 62-mile coastline of Coastal Mississippi will host dozens of events across the tri-county region, including its oldest parade, the Gulf Coast Carnival Association's Annual Mardi Gras Parade on Fat Tuesday, as well as the Children's Walking Parade, and the unique Jeep-a-Gras featuring hundreds of Jeeps parading down the coast. Travelers can celebrate from sun-up to sundown with family-friendly experiences, coronation balls, several spectacular parades, festive waterfront celebrations, live music, and, of course, world-renowned Gulf-to-table Coastal Mississippi cuisine. Find a full list of 2024 Carnival events here. "Visitors to Coastal Mississippi can expect a rich tapestry of cultural experiences throughout our destination during the 2024 Mardi Gras celebration," said Judy Young, CEO of Coastal Mississippi Tourism. "With so many unique events spread across our 62-miles of shoreline, we hope all who come to celebrate this season of merriment with us will appreciate the vibrant energy and atmosphere of unity and celebration that only Coastal Mississippi can create." Coastal Mississippi Mardi Gras brings together locals and visitors annually for a fun and festive season of rich cultural heritage mixed with local characters and, of course, southern charm. Set against a backdrop of stunning beachfront sunsets, mild winter days, and coastal beauty, travelers are sure to find unique and unforgettable experiences for revelers of all ages. To start planning your 2024 Mardi Gras Vacation, visit CoastalMississippi.com. Party at the theme parks in Orlando, Florida Celebrate at the International Flavors of Carnaval - courtesy of Universal Orlando Resort Universal Orlando Resort invites guests to “laissez les bons temps rouler” (let the good times roll) from February 3rd through April 7th during Universal Mardi Gras: International Flavors of Carnaval. This year’s festivities present a vibrant Mardi Gras party like no other, featuring an expansive menu of sweet, savory, and spicy dishes inspired by New Orleans favorites and iconic Carnaval flavors from around the globe, a dazzling Mardi Gras parade featuring all-new, incredibly detailed floats inspired by elements, and - on select nights - live concerts by top names in music like DJ Khaled, Ava Max, Luis Fonsi and more. And guests can enjoy all of the fun as part of regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida. Watch a spectacular Mardi Gras concert lineup – This year’s spectacular concert series will feature ten live performances by some of the most popular names across all genres of music – including GRAMMY-winning artist DJ Khaled, the artist behind the mega-hit, “Sweet but Psycho” – Ava Max, and five-time Latin GRAMMY-winning artist Luis Fonsi. Performances will take place on select nights following the Mardi Gras parade at the Music Plaza stage, located in front of the thrilling Hollywood Rip Ride Rockit roller coaster. Catch the New Elements Parade Theme – This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme will bring the elements to life in six new, beautifully designed parade floats inspired by Earth, wind, fire, water, the sun and the moon. The new collection of element floats will join Universal’s traditional lineup of New Orleans-inspired floats to create this year’s parade – complete with high-energy music, dozens of performers donning elaborate costumes and tons of beads.Taste the International Flavors of Carnaval – Mardi Gras guests can savor the mouthwatering flavors of global Carnaval celebrations from New Orleans to Spain to China and beyond with an expansive menu featuring more than 60 tasting-sized items. While venturing throughout the parkwide celebration, guests will find kiosks featuring delicious culinary delicacies inspired by various locations from around the globe – including the classic Fried Green Tomato Po’boy and fan-favorite fluffy Beignets from New Orleans, Chicken Schnitzel from Germany, Chilaquiles Verdes from Mexico and so much more. The best way to experience the flavors of Mardi Gras is with the specialty Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card, which allows guests to taste and save more by paying $65 for a $75 card. Annual and Seasonal Passholders also receive special savings with the purchase of an exclusive $150 card for only $120. The Universal Orlando Resort Food and Beverage Card will be available for purchase at Mardi Gras food and beverage locations throughout Universal Studios Florida. The best way to experience Universal Mardi Gras is with a stay at one of Universal’s eight incredible hotels, where guests can enjoy exclusive benefits including Early Park Admission and complimentary transportation to the theme parks. Universal Orlando hotels will offer exclusive Mardi Gras food and beverages this season, such as theCrawfish and Andouille Sausage Egg Roll at Islands Dining Room in Loews Royal Pacific Resort, Mardi Gras Empanadas at Amatista Cookhouse in Loews Sapphire Falls Resort, Jambalaya at Beach Break Cafe in Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites and more. Access to Universal Mardi Gras is included with regular theme park admission to Universal Studios Florida. Guests can now take advantage of these incredible offers to experience Mardi Gras and all that Universal Orlando’s theme parks have to offer: Florida and Georgia residents get two days free with the purchase of a 2-Park, 1-Day ticket – allowing them three days of access to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure (click here to learn more). U.S., Canada and Latin America residents can enjoy two free days of admission to Universal Studios Florida and Universal Islands of Adventure with the purchase of a 2-Park, 2-Day ticket – giving them four days of theme park thrills (click here to learn more). Become a Universal Orlando Passholder and get three months free on any 2-Park or 3-Park Annual or Seasonal Pass. Universal Annual and Seasonal Passholders also receive exclusive event perks, including a complimentary Mardi Gras-themed magnet, access to a special viewing area to enjoy the Mardi Gras parade, food and beverage discounts up to 15% off, special merchandise and more. Click here to learn more. Plus, Universal Orlando Passholders and Florida residents can save 40% on rooms at all Universal Orlando hotels during select dates this Mardi Gras season. For more information about Universal Mardi Gras and additional offerings, like the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, visit www.UniversalOrlando.com/MardiGras. Head to the beach in Pensacola, Florida The iconic Mardi Gras celebrations will return to Pensacola with some of the destination's largest vibrantly decorated floats and family-friendly festivals, featuring live music, food, drinks, and free public access. As a city with deep Creole and French roots, it's no wonder Pensacola was the stomping grounds for one of the first Mardi Gras celebrations in the U.S. Visitors can enjoy special events such as the Mardi Gras Mambo featuring Flo Rida on January 26, 2024, the Pensacola Pawdi Gras on January 28, 2024, the Krewe of Lafitte Illuminated Parade on February 9, 2024, the Pensacola Grand Mardi Gras Parade on Feb. 10, 2024, and the Krewe of Wrecks Beach Parade on February 11, 2024. Celebrate big in New Orleans, Louisiana Carnaval parade in New Orleans by Library of Congress - Unsplash Of course, there's nothing like a classic: New Orleans is the quintessential destination for Mardi Gras. If you haven't yet booked a trip, take some sage advice from mardigrasneworleans.com: "Okay, so it's January, and you decide you want to visit New Orleans on Fat Tuesday. Should you even try? Yes! It is worth it, but just be prepared to spend a lot of time on the phone. Keep calling. Hotels have cancellations, and there are waiting lists. If you are persistent, you just may find a place somewhere." If you're willing to make the effort, visitors may still be about to book Mardi Gras packages and find hotel vacancies at BestNewOrleansHotels.com. Additionally, if you have some flexibility on travel dates, its important to know that the festivals begin well before Fat Tuesday—this is often when hotels will have the most availability, and you won't miss out on any of the fun (plus, you'll beat the crowds!). Be sure to book dining out, too; reservations fill up fast along parade routes. For a full list of parades and schedules, visit mardigrasneworleans.com..

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, now is the perfect time to plan a romantic getaway for two. Each of the accommodations below feature charming details and luxurious amenities—perfect for the couples that simply want to stay in and enjoy each other's company. For those that want to get out in explore, these places are also each surrounded by beautiful scenery and located near top attractions. Waimea Plantation Cottages - Kauai, Hawaii A view from the porch of a cottage at Waimea Plantation Cottages - courtesy of Waimea Plantation Cottages Resort Established in 1884 as a dairy and then a working sugar cane plantation, Waimea Plantation Cottages was reborn as a resort in 1984. Each of the 59 cottages has a unique floor plan with comfortable Hawaii-style furnishings. Most of the historic cottages carry a nameplate next to the front doorframe with the surname of a plantation worker who once called the cottage home. The 43-acre property is landscaped with tropical plants, trees, and expansive green lawn areas providing a sense of serenity and quiet. Walking along the beach guests are treated to spectacular sunsets with the island of Niihau in the background. Nestled on the shores of West Kauai, the resort also recently announced 2024 as their 40th Anniversary as a historic resort. “As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Waimea Plantation Cottages Resort, we are pleased to share our Anniversary Celebration Sale with new and returning guests,” said Gregg Enright, general manager at Waimea Plantation Cottages. “Known for spectacular sunsets and starry nights, Waimea Plantation Cottages offers an ideal location for a couple's getaway, a family vacation, or to celebrate special occasions.” An oceanside hammock - courtesy of Waimea Plantation Cottages Resort Guests booking cottages with the 40th Anniversary Celebration Special will enjoy 20% off Best Available Rates. Upon check-in, guests will be treated to a complimentary selection of Kauai Cookies, shell leis, one bottle of water per person, and complimentary coffee and tea. Beyond the anniversary sale, guests can enjoy the oceanfront pool, a 2-mile-long black sand walking beach, and an on-property restaurant serving American and BBQ fare. Beachside hammocks, three propane grilling stations, free parking, complimentary current movie DVD rentals, and a free guest laundry facility round out the experience. The resort offers 59 one- to five-bedroom cottages, built between the 1880s and 1930s, across 43 acres of oceanfront grounds. Lovingly refreshed to harmonize contemporary comfort with the simplicity of the plantation era, each cottage features a fully equipped kitchen and a private lanai. Nearby the awe-inspiring Waimea Canyon, known as the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Koke'e State Park, the breathtaking Napali coastline, and Kekaha Beach, one of Hawaii's longest white-sand beaches, are some of Kauai's most loved attractions. For those seeking local charm, Waimea Town and nearby Hanapepe Town offer eclectic boutiques and eateries. For more information on Waimea Plantation Cottages or to book reservations, please visit www.waimeaplantationcottages.com or call 800-619-6199. Villa Dulce - Cabo San Lucas, Mexico Villa Dulce in Cabo San Lucas - courtesy of Cabo Platinum The newest addition to Cabo Platinum's portfolio, "Villa Dulce," is peacefully situated in the prestigious Pedregal community of Cabo San Lucas. This unique villa embodies a serene escape, providing a distinctive experience for those seeking solace in one of Mexico's highly-regarded destinations. Paying homage to the region's natural allure, boasting 4 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and room for 8 guests, this exclusive property features expansive glass windows that integrate panoramic vistas into its interior décor. Open-concept living spaces showcase elegant furnishings and meticulous attention to detail. Security is ensured within the gated community, providing 24/7 surveillance and access to a quiet beach on the Pacific side. Within Villa Dulce, the four bedrooms provide guests with practical amenities such as individual thermostats, flat-screen TVs, and full private bathrooms. These features ensure a comfortable and functional retreat for each guest. The kitchen is equipped with Brazilian granite countertops, emphasizing the villa's commitment to quality while blending into the overall design. Founded in 1975, Pedregal is often likened to the "Beverly Hills" of the region. Perched on a mountain overlooking downtown Cabo and the IGY Marina, this community offers not just homes but a lifestyle. Basic amenities, featuring pickleball and tennis courts, enhance daily life. It's architectural grandeur, sense of community, and commitment to natural harmony define Pedregal as a timeless and prestigious destination. More than just a vacation rental provider, Cabo Platinum goes the extra mile to connect visitors with the pulse of Cabo San Lucas. Their concierge services extend to crafting bespoke itineraries, arranging exclusive yacht charters, and securing reservations at the city's finest restaurants, offering a seamless blend of opulence and local immersion. Villa Dulce beckons travelers not just to a luxurious retreat but to an experience that encapsulates the true spirit of Cabo San Lucas. It's a tranquil escape, a commitment to quality, and a collaborative venture that extends beyond the villa's walls, enriching the fabric of the local community. In partnership with Cabo Platinum, Villa Dulce stands as a testament to the fusion of modern luxury and authentic local engagement. Lily Hall - Pensacola, Florida Enjoy pristine beaches in and around Pensacola, Florida - courtesy of Visit Pensacola Pensacola, Florida continues to see a boom in boutique accommodations and adaptive reuse, like the recently-opened Lily Hall, a 15-room boutique lodging house breathing new life into the bones that once housed the historic Old Mount Olive Baptist Church and includes Brother Fox (Lily Hall's signature restaurant) and its attached speakeasy, Sister Hen. Pensacola's first-ever speakeasy will have a password-protected entrance that leads guests into an intimate candlelit setting offering inventive cocktails with innovative presentations. Fitting only about two dozen guests, the patrons of Brother Fox will get skip-the-line priority for Sister Hen via a secret passageway inside the restaurant. Inspired by the finer hospitality of the 1920s-1940s era, the prohibition-style hideaway will feature a dress code and even “house rules.” For another local option, there's also The Oyster Bay Boutique Hotel—the first hotel in Pensacola to focus on sustainability and wellness and cater to adults-only clientele. Oyster Bay's goal is to create rich experiences that focus on local authenticity, modest luxury, and natural design. The accommodations are sumptuous, and the service is personalized at the eight-room property. Pensacola is the perfect destination for re-centering, recalibrating, and relaxing with purpose. Lovelock offers several options to practice mindfulness and prioritize mental health with massage therapy, energy, sound and spirit classes, nutrition counseling, and even hypnosis. Those looking to test the waters can take part in one of several classes or workshops offered while others can partake in the six-week courses to take a deeper dive into their practice of choice. There's also the Aqua Spa at Beach Club, which has created an environment where health and well-being are elevated to an art form, and the rediscovery of balance is the primary goal. Guests can rejuvenate with a selection of treatments, including the Sea Breeze Anti-Pollution Facial and Sea Foam Body Wrap. And for those looking for more natural relaxation, Pensacola and Perdido Key boast unmatched natural beauty ideal for reconnecting with one's self and nature, not just with pristine sugar-white beaches, and glittering waters but with nature trails like the paths within the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Perdido Key State Park, Tarkiln Bayou Preserve State Park and more.

One of the best-kept ski secrets in upstate New York is that the Adirondack Mountains have a handful of hidden gem ski resorts ideal for novice to expert skiers, including two ski areas that offer skiing free of charge. Nestled into historic mountain towns with a distinct Adirondack feel, all of these under-the-radar ski areas offer visitors the opportunity to ski, snowboard or snow tube on uncrowded slopes with the spectacular scenery for which the Adirondacks are renowned. Many of these fun, smaller hills also offer ski schools, snowmobile trails, snowshoeing or Nordic skiing. And adding to the appeal of these charming ski areas, many offer extremely affordable ski experiences that make snow sports more approachable for all. Some ski passes start as low as $15, in addition to ski areas that welcome guests free of charge. Beat the crowds at these slopes Winter in the Adirondack Mountains by Susan Jones - Unsplash Among the variety of ski areas in the Adirondacks, visitors from novice to expert can find everything from destination resorts to community ski hills. And while many are familiar with larger ski resorts like Whiteface and Gore mountains, there are ski areas to explore. Below are some of the less-explored ski areas, with tips on accommodations and local eats: McCauley Mountain (Old Forge): A charming resort near the Adirondack wilderness. Get a great night’s sleep at the Adirondack Lodge Old Forge, stop by Keyes’ Pancake House for breakfast and Tony Harper’s Pizza and Clam Shack for lunch/dinner.Mt. Pisgah Recreation Center (Saranac Lake): A welcoming community ski hill with night skiing and tubing, with half-day weekend ski passes available for $15. Kick off your boots at Traverse Lodge or Hotel Saranac, and enjoy dinner at nearby Bitters & Bones.Oak Mountain (Speculator): A hidden treasure with varied terrain since 1948. Check out Lake Pleasant Lodge or Cedarhurst Motor Lodge for accommodations. And grab a bite at Logan’s Bar & Grill or Lemon Tree Brewery.Titus Mountain (Malone): A family-friendly ski gem a short drive from Plattsburgh, Lake Placid, Watertown and Northern Vermont, with terrain for all levels. Check out the rustic cabins at Deer Valley Trails (and stay for dinner) and stop by The Pines Tap & Table for evening revelry. Elevating the affordability and fun of skiing in the Adirondack region, three of these hidden gem ski resorts participate in the “SKI NY Passport Program”, which offers free skiing for third and fourth graders (from any state or country) with an adult purchase. McCauley Mountain, Oak Mountain and Titus Mountain participate in the program. Find free skiing for all experience levels A skier navigates deep snow by Johannes Andersson - Unsplash In addition to the large and medium-sized ski resorts in the Adirondacks, there are two additional ski areas that offer free skiing – which is a rare treat for newbie and experienced skiers alike. Newcomb Ski Slope is an ultra-local and community-owned ski hill which offers free skiing. For the last 50 years, the town of Newcomb has owned and operated this two-run ski slope, where generations of residents have learned to ski. The hill also boasts a trail through the adjacent woods along its 200 vertical feet. At this low-elevation summit, skiers are treated to a view of the snowy High Peaks.Indian Lake Ski Hill also offers skiing free of charge, with the local feel and charm of a community-owned establishment. The recreation area comprises a small hill, two ski trails, a t-bar lift and even ice skating. Use the money you saved on the slopes to book a weekend getaway: The Adirondack region in upstate New York is just a few hours' drive from the New York metro area and Boston, making for abundant transportation options. The expansive region also is within a day’s drive for 25% of the entire North American population.