Christmas in New York is a magical time, but you don’t need to brave the bustle of the city to experience the magic. Whether you’re a city-dweller looking to get away from the mayhem, a family looking to meet up somewhere special, or just someone looking for a little peace, upstate New York is one of the most beautiful places to escape to in the winter. Hit the slopes or hunker down in a lodge with a good book, but nothing gets you into the holiday spirit quite like waking up in a cabin. Here are some of the best upstate New York cabins.
We hope you love the upstate New York cabins we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.
Luxurious log cabin on Lake Otsego
Photo: Airbnb
If you looked up “log cabin” in the dictionary, you’d probably find something like this. Even though the decor is entirely classic, it has amenities that set it apart. These include lakefront access, a game room, and a fire pit right on the water. With plenty of space for the whole family, it’s a great place to meet up for some winter fun.
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $1,240 per night
Stunning Chalet with ski views and sauna
Photo: Airbnb
This property is so special, even among the most pristine of upstate New York cabins. Both the interior and exterior are immaculately designed with murals, exposed wood, and incredible natural light. This house also offers some spectacular amenities like a hot tub, outdoor sauna, game room, and firepit. It’s a short drive to the shops and restaurants of Ellicottville. You can actually see the slopes from your backyard, so this is a skier’s paradise.
Fourteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $774 per night
Upscale A-frame cabin in Hudson Valley
Photo: Airbnb
This rental is described as “cozy yet modern” which is very fitting for a renovated a-frame cabin. It has a classic cabin exterior and a sleek and modern interior with unique amenities. These include a cocktail cart, yoga mats, and a cozy reading nook stocked with books. It is located in Plain Pines which offers restaurants and shopping within a short drive. As an added bonus for those looking to get away from the city, it’s only a two-hour train ride.
Seven guests, four bedrooms
Price: $579 per night
Waterfront lodge with doc and massive patio
Photo: Airbnb
Lake Placid is known for two things; its beauty and its winter sports. After a full day of enjoying both, guests can return to this serene spot, one of the most beautiful upstate New York cabins, on the water to rest and enjoy the views. If they still have any energy left, they can head down to the game room, if not, they can curl up by the fire with hot cocoa for a movie night. Either way, it’s a great place to come home to.
Fourteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,603 per night
Grand Meadows Lodge with mountain views and classic charm
Photo: Airbnb
This cabin sits on five acres of land with mountain views. Just minutes from Whiteface and Lake Placid, it’s ideal for skiers and snowboarders. But if that isn’t your cup of tea, there is plenty more to enjoy in both towns. If that fails, this property has a hot tub, game room, and spacious kitchen for cooking up your holiday meals.
Sixteen guests, six bedrooms
Price: $1,198 per night
Grapevine Cottage, a cozy couple’s retreat in New York
Photo: Airbnb
This charming A-frame looks like something straight out of a Jane Austen novel. It sits on two and a half acres of gardens, complete with raised beds, walking paths, verandas, and sitting areas. One can only imagine how magical this property would look blanketed in snow. The interior is just as lovely and inviting as the property with its exposed beams, natural wood accents, and large windows. It would be the perfect spot to bundle up and hunker down with a good book.
Two guests, one bedroom
Price: $337 per night
Spacious Catskill Lodge cabin on beautiful land
Photo: Airbnb
Kids and adults alike will feel right at home in this luxury cabin. With a game room, spa, and breathtaking views, there’s something for everyone. The decor is on theme, but slightly more minimalistic than the typical Catskill rental. It is just a five-minute drive from the village of Catskill which is full of quaint shops and restaurants to enjoy, even in the coldest weather.
Twelve guests, four bedrooms
Price: $837 per night
Perfectly relaxing Adirondack cabin on the river
Photo: Airbnb
On the secluded banks of a roaring river, guests can enjoy mountain views and classic Adirondack decor. This is a great spot for outdoorsy families with cross country and downhill skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing right outside your door. The host will even provide you with five pairs of snowshoes for your adventures. The town of Northville is only a short drive away from all of your dining and shopping needs.
Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $271 per night
Aesthetic cabin in the woods
Photo: Airbnb
It’s hard to believe that a property like this exists outside of the pages of a magazine. The Cabin is beautifully appointed with a lot of character. Guests can start a fire in the wood-burning stove, put on a record and share a meal in the stunning main room. Skiing is available nearby, as is the town of Maplecrest, but you may never want to leave the house.
Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $516 per night
Christman Barn for the entire family
Photo: Airbnb
This may not technically be among the upstate New York cabins, but it was too fabulous not to include in this list. This nineteenth-century barn has been converted to a vacation house unlike any you have seen before. Every detail of this home has been carefully considered from the rustic farmhouse decor to the stunning exposed beams. It’s massive, so be sure to bring the whole family along, even the pets. It might as well be called “Christmas Barn,” because it would be the perfect place to pass the holidays. 
Sixteen guests, seven bedrooms
Price: $816 per night