Dinogo Readers' Top 5 Resorts in New York State for 2023

The vast hiking trails, stunning lakes, and rich mountain landscapes of upstate New York provide a perfect escape for travelers worldwide, which likely attracted Dinogo readers to these five remarkable New York State resorts.

Understanding the Voting Process

In our annual World's Best Awards survey, T+L invites readers to share their travel experiences globally, expressing their views on the best hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 165,000 T+L readers participated in the 2023 survey, representing a nearly 25 percent increase from pre-pandemic voting. Over 685,000 votes were cast for more than 8,500 unique properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.).

Properties were categorized as resort hotels, city hotels, or safari lodges based on their location and amenities, and they were rated according to the following criteria:

Amenities/rooms
Location
Quality of service
Cuisine
Overall value

Respondents rated each feature as excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor, with final scores calculated as averages of these ratings.

Highlights from Our Readers

Travelers headed to the Catskills, Lake Placid, or the Finger Lakes preferred charming accommodations that provided plenty of relaxation opportunities. One voter, who visited Mohonk Mountain House (No. 5), remarked, “You can leave all your worries with the valet and immerse yourself in nature.” Relaxing at this Hudson Valley gem, set within 40,000 acres of forest, could involve rock climbing or horseback riding one day, followed by kayaking and archery the next. For a less active yet equally rewarding experience, visitors can enjoy the recently renovated spa.

While T+L readers are always eager to explore new destinations, they also cherish certain beloved spots — and for good reason. Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa (No. 2) has become a cherished annual retreat for one reader: “My husband and I go there every year for his birthday,” she shared. “It’s our absolute favorite!” Another reader was enchanted by the seasonal changes at Lake Placid Lodge (No. 4): “In October, I savored the stunning views of the lake framed by vibrant fall foliage.”

This year’s reader favorite checks all the boxes and more — a historic gem in the vibrant Catskills, beautifully renovated by new owners in 2022.

The Champion

Wylder Windham: Windham, New York

Image courtesy of Wylder Windham

Set on 20 acres beside the Batavia Kill River, this seven-lodge resort revitalizes the historic Thompson House resort, a 160-year-old Catskills landmark. The renovation beautifully combines modern elements (like new wide-plank oak floors and Carrara marble bathrooms) with original details, including a hand-carved wooden staircase and stained-glass windows. Many onsite features, such as fire pits and hammocks, evoke nostalgia for the Borscht Belt era, but there’s also encouragement to explore beyond the hotel. Guests can borrow mountain bikes and e-bikes, and a vintage Land Rover Defender is available to transport visitors to Windham Mountain for winter skiing. The staff is eager to suggest nearby activities, whether it’s the best hiking spots or local dining options.

Whether you’re eager to ski the nearby slopes, tube in the river, bike along picturesque trails, or try your hand at fly-fishing, this resort has it covered. With its seven beautifully restored historic lodges (ranging from Victorian to contemporary), a heated pool, pickleball courts, and wood-fired saunas, Wylder Windham promises a memorable getaway.