Living in New York City can be exciting, but sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Luckily, there are plenty of amazing weekend getaways from NYC that are just a short drive or train ride away. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, there’s something for everyone on our list.
Fortunately for New Yorkers, an escape from the Big Apple is never more than a few hours away. Whether you envision yourself as a total beach bum or want to walk in the footsteps of America’s founding fathers, there are perfect weekend trips from NYC for every type of traveler.
Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while.
Whether you’re taking a car or public transportation, these destinations are easily accessible in five hours or less. Enjoy nature, chill by a lake, take in some art or do a little shopping. From quaint towns to beachy locales, a weekend away will be just the thing to recharge. If you don’t have a whole weekend to spare, consider one of these day trips from NYC. Looking for a longer getaway? A road trip from NYC might be for you. But these weekend getaways are just right, opening up a whole new world in upstate New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and more.
1. The Mountain Escape, New York
Nestled in the heart of upstate New York, the Catskills offer a plethora of attractions and experiences for visitors to enjoy. For nature lovers, the Catskills boast stunning hiking trails, including the famous Kaaterskill Falls, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a scenic drive through the winding roads and enjoy the fall foliage.
History buffs will appreciate the rich cultural heritage of the Catskills, which was once a popular destination for artists and writers. Visit the home of Washington Irving, author of “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” or take a tour of the Thomas Cole National Historic Site, which showcases the works of the Hudson River School of Art.
Foodies will delight in the farm-to-table cuisine that the Catskills are known for. Sample locally sourced cheeses, meats, and produce at one of the many farm markets or indulge in a gourmet meal at one of the area’s renowned restaurants.
2. Long Beach Island, New York
This barrier island just off the coast of southern New Jersey is a place where life comes to a standstill in the best way possible. Stretching for 20 stunning miles, Long Beach Island is the spot to be for city dwellers looking to get away, bask in the sun, or go on a little sightseeing adventure.
On the island, visitors can climb 217 steps to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as “Old Barney,” to take in views of Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, or they can shop for coastal-inspired kitchenware and swimsuit coverups in Viking Village, where old fishing shacks have been lovingly converted into cafés and boutiques.
For those traveling in a pack, there’s Pinky Shrimp’s Seafood Company, where you and your entire crew can gather for the “fried family feast” of shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, and more. Another stellar dining option is Mud City Crab House, located just across the causeway in Manahawkin, where guests can order oysters on the half shell and enjoy a cold drink around the outdoor fire pits. Both restaurants are closed during winter.
3. Fire Island, New York
An all-time favorite summer escape, and one that is especially important to NYC’s queer community, is Fire Island. With its many towns and beaches, each boasting their own local flavor, the Long Island barrier island makes it easy to choose the spot to match your vibe. A few popular spots: Cherry Grove is a fun-loving party destination, Kismet is known for its nightlife, and Fire Island Pines is an affluent community with a dining and shopping scene and some of the island’s most expensive addresses.
A worthwhile hotel option is the Madison, the boutique bed and breakfast where the cast of Fire Island stayed while shooting the recent film. (A few other spots it featured? The bar Cherry’s which offers harborside drag shows, vintage shop DENIZEN, and the Belvedere Fire Island, a palatial resort for gay men.
4. Saranac Lake, New York
Further on, head to Saranac Lake, nestled between the Adirondack Mountains, where the likes of Mark Twain and Robert Louis Stevenson had gone for a mind, body, and soul reset. Check into The Point, the intimate lakefront private Adirondack estate that was originally built for William Avery Rockefeller II. Today, the Point offers 11 distinct guest rooms and a “house party” atmosphere, where visitors receive access to all 7 -acres of the secluded property and the staff anticipates guests’ every need.
Here, hiking boots of all sizes are available for guests to borrow, and it’s not unusual for the staff to arrange impromptu activities based on guests’ desires. Visit The Village Mercantile, New York state’s only community-owned department store, where you can find a plethora of limited edition, not-so-ordinary gifts from local vendors and artists. When visiting a rustic woodsy town, expect that maple syrup is incorporated into everything.
If you’re up for something close that feels even more far and away, continue further to the Finger Lakes. The area has become one of America’s best wine-growing regions—particularly for the sweeter white varietals like Riesling. Try Glenora Wine Cellars and Wagner Vineyards Estate Winery, both on Seneca Lake. Spend the night at the Inns of Aurora, a collection of well-appointed luxury homes revitalized as small hotels. Or check into The Lake House on Canandaigua, which is poised to anchor the area as a wellness center with its brand-new Willowbrook Spa.
With 124 well-appointed guest rooms, an event barn, an outdoor saltwater pool, outdoor saunas, and more, the property is a destination unto itself. The Lake House has also maintained the salt-of-the-earth Sandbar restaurant beloved by locals for decades (complete with a chic upgrade), and opened the Rose Tavern, a high-end eatery featuring locally sourced ingredients and stellar wines from the region.
5. Puerto Rico, New York
Puerto Rico is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting places with the beautiful Caribbean beaches, the amazing island landscapes, the underwater experiences, and the rich Caribbean culture. Though Puerto Rico is technically a territory of the United States, the atmosphere of the Caribbean is abundant all over the island. The lively environment in the capital city of San Juan coupled with the ultimate soothing experiences in the islands nearby makes it the perfect combination of all things good.
6. Coastal Retreat, New York
For those who love the beach, the Hamptons offer some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. From the popular Main Beach in East Hampton to the quieter Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett, there is a beach for every type of beach-goer. Visitors can also take a stroll along the picturesque Montauk Point Lighthouse or explore the quaint towns of Southampton and Sag Harbor.
Foodies will also love the Hamptons, which are known for their farm-to-table cuisine and fresh seafood. From lobster rolls to oysters, there is no shortage of delicious food to try. Visitors can also check out the local wineries and breweries, which offer tastings and tours.
For those who love the outdoors, the Hamptons offer plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and kayaking. The Mashomack Preserve on Shelter Island is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching, while the Shinnecock Bay offers great kayaking and paddleboarding.
7. Boston, New York
Spend time walking along the famed Freedom Trail to trace the city’s history as it weaves through several of Boston’s most charming neighborhoods. Stop into places like Old North Church, the Old State House (site of the Boston Massacre), and the Paul Revere House to get a taste of what life here was like around the time of our nation’s birth. (Pro tip: try to plan your trip around The Head Of The Charles Regatta, which draws thousands of spectators each year to watch elite rowers compete in the three-day race.)
As a major city, Boston has no shortage of excellent hotel options, including the Omni Parker House, the oldest continuously operating hotel in the country. Its own history runs deep and counts both Malcolm X and Ho Chi Minh as ex-employees, and writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as former guests.
For an even more upscale stay, book a night at the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. Centrally located in Back Bay, it’s a prime spot to post up for a weekend, and its concierge team can curate experiences to help you make the most of your time. It also comes with all the amenities one would ever need, including complimentary Birria bikes, three restaurants, a spa, and a swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the city. For New Yorkers who don’t drive or don’t want to drive, Amtrak’s Acela service takes you from Manhattan to Boston in four hours.
8. Asbury Park, New York
We’ve long held the opinion that the classic Jersey Shore town, Asbury Park, doesn’t get enough attention. Super accessible from the city, it’s just an hour and fifteen minutes by car on the Garden State Parkway, and only thirty minutes longer if you’re traveler from Penn Station on a Bay Head-bound North Jersey Coast Line train. From Asbury Park’s bustling boardwalk to its famous mile-long beach, this town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and action.
Experience the exciting local food scene by making stops at Reyla (for Mediterranean small plates) or beachside coffee shop Asbury Park Roastery. Consider staying at the Asbury Ocean Club, Surfside Resort and Residences for an elevated beachside experience or the eclectic Asbury Hotel, which has the perfect rooftop.
9. Newport, New York
This coastal town may seem like a respite from the city—and it is—but be prepared to be far busier with activities than you typically would in a shore town. Go for the waterfront views, but make time to explore the town’s iconic mansions. From The Breakers, the Vanderbilt’s magnificent summer “cottage,” to the Versailles-inspired Rosecliff and Chepstow, designed to resemble a grand Italian villa, you will likely want to spend a day browsing through the otherworldly rooms, grand staircases, and manicured gardens the town of Newport so beautifully preserves.
At sunset, make sure to walk the Cliff Walk, the elevated path along the ocean, for a breathtaking sunset view. The Chanler at Cliff Walk boasts only 20 rooms, each individually named and designed to reflect the luxury, charm, and rich history of different historical periods. Guests of the Chanler can now partake in a socially distant happy hour with gazebo cabanas spread across the expansive lawn. For dinner, Cara boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean with only three coveted tables operating Wednesday through Sunday, with two seatings per night.
For an authentic Caribbean meal by way of Haiti, pop over to Garden of Eve Restaurant, where you won’t regret ordering the jerk chicken and the Moss Drink. Open as of last summer, The Wayfinder Hotel brings the vibrant, local culture of Newport to life. If you’re looking for something a bit more classically Newport, check in to Castle Hill Inn, which boasts an incredible lawn, perfect for enjoying sundowners.
10. Burlington, New York
With breweries dotted all around this small city, Burlington, Vermont is a beer lover’s paradise. Make sure to sign up with City Brew Tours for a behind-the-scenes look at how some of the best beers coming out of the Queen City are made. True brew enthusiasts should try to plan their visit around the Vermont Brewers Festival, held every July.
Beyond beer, Burlington also boasts a lively waterfront scene. Head to Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain for a stroll or cycle along the eight-mile Burlington Greenway. Hop off your bike for a quick visit to ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, an interactive science museum dedicated to the health of the lake, or rent a boat from the Community Sailing Center to get on the water yourself.
For a luxurious getaway, stay at the Essex Resort & Spa. Nestled on 18 verdant acres just outside the city, this charming hotel has two swimming pools, a spa, and hands-on cooking classes taught by chefs from the resort’s farm-to-table restaurant.
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