Would you like to learn about the best weekend getaways from New York if you live in this metropolis? With its fabulous culture, numerous opportunities, and incredible entertainment, it attracts people worldwide . But, sometimes, the residents of NYC who want to get to somewhere pleasing and enjoyable on weekends have no idea where to go. Fortunately, this blog offers ways to spend your weekend out of NYC.
Best Weekend Getaways from New York List
In this part, we’ll offer you the list of NY weekend getaways as well as some details, helping you make a better plan for your weekend trips.
Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley, or Hudson River Valley, one of the best weekend getaways from New York, boasts historic landmarks, awesome sculpture parks, and pleasing attractions. Due to the rich history and natural beauty, it was designated as a national heritage area. Surprisingly, it’s the oldest wine-producing area in the US so that you can access a wine made with fresh grapes. From cozy cafés to upscale restaurants, the Hudson Valley caters to every taste. Thanks to the nearby Culinary Institute of America, even remote villages boast exceptional cuisine—all crafted with the region’s freshest farm-grown ingredients. In addition, it’s home to various fairs, festivals, and shows, providing great entertainment for all tourists. According to Lonely Planet, Hudson Valley is “a real city break, with leafy drives, wineries, and plenty of farm-to-table foodie options.”
- Travel Time: 2.5-hour drive or 2 hours by train
- Attractions: The Arts Center of the Capital Region, Catamount Mountain Resort, Crailo State Historic Site, FASNY Museum of Firefighting.
- Best For: Culture enthusiasts and food lovers.
Asbury Park
Asbury Park is among the best weekend vacations from NYC. However, it hasn’t gained much attention in the past few years. It has miles of water and sand, attracting numerous surfers, swimmers, sunbathers, fishers, and people-watchers, and it has playgrounds, restaurants, and so forth. Besides, it’s also home to delicious food, fantastic boutiques, and interesting nightlife. From Japanese to Mediterranean to Italian meals, it’s all here. If you are a visitor, don’t worry about the accommodations as there are many cost-effective options for you, and some even offer you views of the beautiful coast. Whether you’re a foodie, adventurer, or culture seeker, there’s something for you.
- Travel Time: 1.5-hour drive
- Attractions: Asbury Park Boardwalk, Stephen Crane House, The Paranormal Museum, and Paramount Theater and Convention Hall.
- Best For: Rockers, diners, surfers, art patrons
North Fork
North Fork, a weekend getaway from New York, is located in the northeast part of Suffolk County, New York, on the East End of Long Island. Honestly, it’s one of the largest and most preserved agricultural regions and is home to the renowned wine country of Long Island. Steeped in Long Island heritage, the North Fork boasts historic vineyards and family-run farms dating back generations. Except for vineyards, the North Fork offers superb waterfront dining. Elevate your wine tour with fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes at restaurants nestled among the grapevines. In terms of accommodations, there are many hotels and resorts for you. Between breathtaking waterfront vistas and charming vineyard landscapes, you’ll be enchanted the moment you arrive and reluctant to depart.
- Travel Time: 2-hour drive
- Attractions: Alex Ferrone Gallery, Southold Historical Museum, Grumman Memorial Park, and Hallockville Museum Farm.
- Best For: Wine & food lovers and peace-seeking travelers.
Boston
Boston, the capital and most populous city in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts offers the best short trips from NYC. Regarding restaurants, people always think of seafood or old favorites, such as Boston cream pie and baked beans. However, its modern cuisine is more excellent. Mirroring the cultural tapestry of its 23 neighborhoods, Boston’s restaurants now offer a global mosaic of tastes, transforming every meal into an adventure as dynamic as the city itself. Boston warmly invites you to experience its rich cultural tapestry. With 23 vibrant neighborhoods, multicultural festivals, captivating museums, and immersive heritage trails, the city celebrates global traditions while creating unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
- Travel Time: 4-hour drive or 3.5 hours by train
- Attractions: Old North Church, the Old State House, the Paul Revere House, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.
- Best For: History buffs, sports fanatics, beer drinkers, marathon runners, and academics.
The Berkshires
Located in western Massachusetts and northwestern Connecticut in the US, the Berkshires are highlands which serves as getaways from NYC. They’re home to more than 100 world-class attractions, farm-to-table food and fantastic ourdoor activities, ensuring your special and unforgettable experience. Moreover, it features quiet mountain views, luxuriant forests and clear waters, providing an idyllic environment for those seeking weekend trips NYC. Nestled in the heart of New England, the Berkshires offer a perfect blend of refined elegance and rustic charm. With inviting accommodations, world-class dining, unique boutiques, and a vibrant cultural scene, every visit creates lasting memories. Experience why this beloved region continues to captivate visitors season after season with its irresistible mix of sophistication and small-town charm.
- Travel Time: 3.5-hour drive
- Attractions: Norman Rockwell Museum, The Mount, Edith Wharton’s Home, Tanglewood, The Clark Art Institute.
- Best For: Mountain lovers.
Catskills
The Catskills, also known as the Catskill Mountains, are located in southeastern New York. As a weekend getaway from NYC, they boast the legends that shape the state, the secrets that attract people, and the scenery that gains popularity worldwide. The region pleases tourists by providing them with paddling, golfing, breweries, and motorcycling. This scenic area has been a top choice for adventure seekers, offering excellent hiking trails and winter sports. The Catskills stand out as a favorite hiking spot, with trails ranging from the stunning Kaaterskill Falls to the challenging climb up Slide Mountain, the range’s tallest summit. Skiers and snowboarders flock to well-known slopes like Hunter Mountain and Belleayre Mountain for seasonal fun when snow arrives.
- Travel Time: 3-hour drive
- Attractions: Catskill Fly Fishing Center, Zoom Flume Water Park, Monticello Casino & Raceway.
- Best For: Writers, painters, and mountain lovers.
Burlington
Burlington, the most populous city in Vermont, offers weekend trips from New York. You have many immersive ways to enjoy the beauty of nature, including paddling, hiking, and mountain biking; during the harvest season, you even could appreciate the fabulous palette of landscapes. There are many things to do in the fall, like honoring the Green Mountains’ agricultural heritage, having a dinner tour on a train, and discovering the beauty along the way. Interestingly, you can ride a bike along the Island Line Trail. You don’t need to make a comprehensive travel plan cause everything you meet will be fantastic, so just explore and let Burlington surprise you.
- Travel Time: 5.5-hour drive
- Attractions: Missisquoi Wildlife Refuge, Burnt Mountain, Hathoway Farm, and Withe River Valley.
- Best For: Nature lovers and famalies.
The Finger Lakes
The Finger Lakes, consisting of 11 lakes, are NY weekend getaways. Located a short drive from NYC, they are accessible for tourists near and far. The area boasts many fabulous events, festivals, restaurants, lakefront hotels, wineries as well as vineyards, proving diverse choices for tourists. In addition, there is a nice family atmosphere. For instance, the warm months offer travellers opportunities to swap indoor activities for outdoor ones, like wandering near the lake, doing water sports or enjoying the sunbath.
- Travel Time: 4-hour drive
- Attractions: Watkins Glen State Park, Letchworth State Park, and Taughannock Falls State Park.
- Best For: Wine lovers
Philadelphia
Philadelphia, a city and port in Pennsylvania, serves as a getaway from NYC. As a modern and vigorous city, it has a lot of features of a small town, like many trees, parks, open spaces and peaceful lifestyle. However, it also indicates an urban cluster of national and international stature. As the first UNESCO World Heritage City in America, it embraces innovation and diversity, providing platforms for all. In Philly, you have many fantastic things to do, such as taking a photo in front of the Liberty Bell, enjoying cheesesteak, and exploring the fashionable waterfront.
- Travel Time: 2-hour drive or 1.5 hours by train.
- Attractions: Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Philadelphia Museum of Art.
- Best For: History buffs, foodies, culture seekers.
Newport
Newport, referred to as “America’s First Resort”, is a seaside city in Rhode Island and one of the best weekend getaways from New York. It, founded in 1639, has a history of nearly 400 years and is considered as a shining gem in the costal crown of New England. Here, you can immerse yourself in miles of veayrufyk coastal views, witness authentic buildings of Colonial and Gilded Age, and wander along the waterfront routes. You can also get inspirations from the fabulous mansions, receive energy from the local nightlife, and try special flavors at many restaurants, breweries and wineries.
- Travel Time: 4-hour drive or 3.5 hours by train.
- Attractions: Cliff Walk, Newport Mansions, Fort Adams State Park, and Thames Steet.
- Best For: Climbers and history lovers.
Montauk
Montauk, a small village and a designated place, is a popular option for those wanting a weekend out of NYC. In terms of entertainment, you’ll have a variety of ways, including fishing, surfing, hiking, kayaking; if you wanna try the freshest seafood, MTK is the best choice, which also boasts a global culinary. You don’t need to make a sound plan, as you can gain hapiness from the stretching beaches and the relaxing town. And when it comes to accommodations, you also have different living choices, including family-friendly resort, oceanside motel, and seaside cabin.
- Travel Time: 3-hour drive or 3 hours by train.
- Attractions: Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum, Camp Hero State Park, Kirk Park Beach.
- Best For: Beach lovers and couples.
Fairfield County
Fairland, boasting the most dynamic metropolitan areas, is among the best weekend getaways from New York. It’s home to high-end manufacturing, well-rounded services and healthcare priority. Supposing you have an interest in art and culture, you can find various murals, sculptures and public artworks. Besides, museum exhibits, gallries and studios will give you artistic atmosphere, where you can discover the art forms you truly love. Eat & drink? Fairfield Country is a gourmet paradise. You can find various foods, such as sweets, treats, wineries, breweries, and locally-owned eateries
- Travel Time: 4.5-hour drive.
- Attractions: Lancaster, Pickerington, Buckeye Lake.
- Best For: Beach lovers and couples.
Fire Island
Fire Island, the largest center island of the outer barrier island, is among the best weekend getaways from New York. It has been a popular destination throughout the year. With only 32 miles in width, it has a large number of attractions. Besides, you have many ways to gain entertainment, such as swim, sunbathe, hike, fish, boat, kayak, canoe, camp or photograph a breathtaking sunset or natural wildlife. The beautiful beaches of the island can only be accessible by ferry or private boat. Due to its culture, the unique shops and restaurants can’t be found anywhere else on the island.
- Travel Time: 2.5-hour drive & 30-minute ferry ride.
- Attractions: Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, Tiki Boat Long Island, Sailors Haven/Sunken Forest.
- Best For: Beach lovers and nature lovers.
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Conclusion of Best Weekend Getaways from New York
You must have learned something about the best weekend getaways from New York from our blog. Different getaways from NYC have their own different features and characteristics. Whether you’re fond of coastal areas or mountains, you can find it all from the list of best weekend getaways from New York. May you have a happy and safe journey!
FAQ of Best Weekend Getaways from New York
What tropical island is close to New York?
The Dominican Republic is among the most accessible Caribbean getaways. Located between Turks and Caicos to the north and Cuba to the east, this tropical paradise boasts lush rainforests, vibrant blooms, and thriving wildlife.
What is the best road trip from New York?
- The Hudson Valley: A Blend of History and Natural Beauty.
- Philadelphia: The Cradle of American Liberty.
- The Hamptons: Luxury by the Sea.
- The Pocono Mountains: Nature’s Playground.
- The Catskills: An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Dream.
- The Berkshires: A Cultural and Scenic Getaway.
What cities are 2 hours away from NY?
Within roughly two hours of New York City—whether by car or train—you can explore charming destinations across four states. Top getaways include Beacon in New York’s Hudson Valley, historic Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, the collegiate town of New Haven in Connecticut, and the lively shores of Atlantic City, New Jersey.
What Caribbean island is 4 hours from NYC?
Several Caribbean destinations offer convenient flight times from New York. The Dominican Republic is the quickest escape at just 3.5 hours to Punta Cana or Puerto Plata. Jamaica’s popular cities of Kingston and Montego Bay are about 4 hours away, while flights to San Juan, Puerto Rico take approximately the same time. For travelers heading to Barbados, expect a slightly longer 4.5-hour journey.
What states can I visit from New York?
New York shares borders with five neighboring states—Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. The first three belong to New England, a northeastern region famed for its vibrant autumn foliage.
