ESCAPES
WINTER WONDER
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Five Northeast places promise to show off the season at its most scenic.
For some travelers, winter is something to flee, and that’s fine. But it can also be something to savor. Crisp air, sunlight reflecting off ice, snow garbing trees and houses—even the joy of huddling by a fireplace or furnace to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa—these can be memory makers just as surely as any tanningoil-covered sojourn on a baking beach. Finding the right destination, of course, is key. So here are five towns ready to strut their stuff in the cold, places where the energy level is high even when the thermometer reading is low:
FRENCHTOWN, N.J.
Nestled on the banks of the Delaware, Frenchtown is only a bridge away from Bucks County, Pennsylvania (the Uhlerstown–Frenchtown Bridge, to be specific; it includes a pedestrian walking path and is an attraction in its own right). Cozy and quaint with a bustling arts community, Frenchtown’s about an hour’s drive from Bergen. What to do. For stunning views of frozen streams, lakes and the river, stop by the Frenchtown Preserve, a 150-acre treasure trove of flat walking paths and breathtaking sights. Not crazy about the woods? Wander downtown and see gorgeous Victorian architecture resplendent in snow (and lit by string lights crisscrossing the streets, creating a softly glowing fairyland). Art lovers can stop by top gallery space ArtYard or the Don Hector Glass Studio for eye-popping stained glass. (ArtYard’s currently displaying abstracts by Bernadette Simone; those visiting later in the month will see a curated exhibit of still lifes from dozens of artists and the historic photographs of Lora Webb Nichols.) Plus, shop curated boutiques featuring everything from books to menswear to home goods. Where to eat. At the Frenchtown Café you can enjoy innovative takes on American classics (espresso mocha and orange ricotta pancakes, for instance). Something more high-end? Stop by Chez Daniel for French dining and first-class service, with menu offerings such as salmon meunière and a 12-ounce, dry-aged pork chop Normandy. More info: frenchtownalive.com
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BETHLEHEM, PA.
An hour and a half from Bergen by car, this second-largest city in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley teems with colonial and industrial history, and in winter it’s dressed in its best. There are historic buildings blanketed in snow, walkable landmarks and plenty of cafes and shops just waiting for you to duck inside, warm up and explore. What to do. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Moravian Church Settlements in Bethlehem are must-see. Explore 10 acres of original, 18th-century buildings, inspired by the church’s concept of “an ideal city.” Around Valentine’s Day, the Bethlehem Carriage Company offers horse-drawn carriage rides through the city so you and your sweetheart can take in the views in style. Downtown teems with every kind of shopping, from small artisans (Kaleidoscope Collective showcases women-created crafts) to luxury goods (see La Petite Provence for home goods and AM Luxe for style), to spots for the kids (Grandpa Joe’s Candy Shop is surefire). Where to eat. A stunning dining room sets the bar high at 1741 on the Terrace in the Historic Hotel Bethlehem—arched, floor-to-ceiling windows, mosaic floors and heavy, dark wood chairs—but the menu meets that challenge. Prince Edward Island mussels, mushroom risotto and filet mignon are among options here. Or try the Flying Egg, a boutique diner with a madefrom-scratch menu that features honey and apple ricotta toast and five variations of eggs Benedict. More info: visithistoricbethlehem.com
FEBRUARY 2026
1/14/26 1:18 PM