Off the Slopes: Winter Activities in Cortland County for Non-Skiers
While Cortland County is known as a winter destination with its three ski resorts, there's much more to the county than its snowy slopes.
Whether you need a break from the powder or just aren't that into skiing, here are eight other awesome things to do on your winter vacation in Cortland County.
1. STRAP ON SNOWSHOES
There are plenty of alternatives to skiing and snowboarding that offer gorgeous winter landscapes and have you burning some extra calories. Snowshoe through one of Cortland County's groomed trails. All your need is a pair of winter boots as most resorts offer poles and snowshoe rentals that will attach to your boots.
2. DRINK CRAFT BEER
For beer-loving non-skiers, Cortland Beer Company and Homer Hops Brewing are spots that shouldn't be missed. From delectable seasonal brews to unique barrel aged selections, you'll love camping out and knocking a couple back at their tap houses. If beer isn't your scene, you can also visit the Finger Lakes Tasting & Tap Room, or Dragonfyre Distillery. A full list of breweries, along with restaurants, can be viewed here.
3. THE THRILL OF TUBING
No matter what you've heard, snowtubing is not a kids-only attraction! Get out and enjoy the snow at the tubing center at Greek Peak Mountain Resort. Conveyor lifts pull you and your tube to the top of 18 groomed lanes so the ride up is almost as enjoyable as the thrilling slide down. So grab some buddies or your significant other, because people of all ages go tubing. Reservations are required - click here for more details.
4. SHOP TILL YOU DROP
Cortland County has a variety of stores to cater to visitors. Whether you're looking for warm winter clothes (Homer Men & Boys), a new handbag (Bev & Co.), delicious chocolate treats (Sinfully Sweet Café), or a one-of-kind gift (Cinch Art Space), you'll find some interesting local stores to check out.
5. FAST-PACED ADVENTURES
If you have the need for speed, a perfect way to experience nature in smaller groups is snowmobiling. From Virgil to Preble, to a trek through Marathon, pick up a bit of speed through wide open space - it's a fun way to spend the day as a family or with a group of friends. Visit our snowmobiling page for more information on local clubs.
6. ENJOY A DAY OF HISTORY
Leave the cold outside and take a trip back in time at one of our County museums. At the CNY Living History Center, which houses three museums in one complex, visitors can learn about the history of the county and surrounding areas. Galleries, artifacts and narratives cover things like the 17,000-mile trek of a Brockway Fire Truck, the county's involvement in various armed conflicts, and the agricultural history of CNY. The 1890 House Museum was once open to the late 19th-century inventor and industrialist, Chester F. Wickwire. Take a guided tour of the mansion, while also 'oooing' and 'ahhing' over the 30 beautifully decorated holiday trees found throughout.
7. MOUNTAIN COASTER
If you're looking for an adrenaline filled experience while at Greek Peak Mountain Resort, check out the Nor'Easter Mountain Coaster. Climb the mountainside, cruise over the peak and navigate the pitches and turns as you descent through the forest. Reservations are required - click here for all the details.
8. UNCORK YOUR CREATIVITY
A guided painting opportunity that requires no previous painting experience, Cheerful & Creative, located on Central Avenue in historic downtown Cortland, is entertaining, fun, and the perfect introduction to art. The classes are offered in a safe, social setting, and you can try a class geared specifically towards kids for a fun, family-friendly experience. The best part? You can take your masterpiece home with you!
Share your Cortland County winter adventures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.