Best Weekend Getaways from NYC
Searching for the best weekend getaways from NYC? Well, you are in the right place! As a New York local for 10 years, what I love most about The Empire State is that within just a few hours’ drive or train ride, I can swap the city’s nonstop energy for scenic mountains, a charming river town, or a relaxing beach, depending on my mood.
After a whirlwind week in the Big Apple, for me one of the most enjoyable parts is picking a cozy inn, chic boutique hotel, or a countryside retreat to spend a relaxing 48 hours. Here I'm sharing my favorites that I personally vetted and I hope you enjoy them too.
1. The Crystal Springs Resort - 1 hour 25 minutes from NYC
This New Jersey resort is one of my favorite weekend getaways from NYC. Why? Honestly this place has something for everyone, whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, getting away by yourself, or spending a relaxing weekend with friends.
This Travel + Leisure® “World’s Best Awards” 2025 resort is actually made up of two hotels, Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel, each with its own distinct vibe. Grand Cascades is luxurious and romantic, with stunning mountain views, elegant suites, and the famous Biosphere pool complex.
We started our weekend by driving out early Friday morning, watching the city fade away and the scenery turn green and peaceful, which already felt like magic.
Checking in was smooth, and right away the resort felt like an underrated dream getaway that works for both romantic trips or family weekends.
Minerals Hotel is perfect for families, with indoor and outdoor pools, and tons of kid-friendly activities. My husband, son and I stayed here for two care-free days in a comfortable Deluxe Room with two Queen-size beds.
Our first stop was exploring the grounds. The views of rolling hills and golf courses were spectacular and honestly some of the best I’ve seen so close to NYC.
After that we headed straight to the spa, which was my favorite experience of the whole trip and easily the absolute best part of the resort.
The mineral pools felt amazing, and it was such a cool and unique way to slow down and forget about real life for a bit.
Later that evening we got ready for dinner, and the food experience was exceptional and surprisingly affordable for how fancy it felt.
In fact, you'll have lots of choice for dining. From casual cafés to refined restaurants serving farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wine, there’s something for every mood. My favorite experience was enjoying a family dinner at Restaurant Latour for my birthday which has an incredible wine cellar and amazing views.
We spent the night walking around the resort, grabbing drinks, laughing a lot, and just enjoying a joyful and exciting weekend vibe.
The next morning we woke up early, grabbed coffee, and took a peaceful walk outside which felt like an underrated moment I’ll remember.
After breakfast we checked out the wine cellar, which was interesting, unusual, and such a brilliant idea for a resort like this.
Before heading back to NYC, we squeezed in one last spa visit because it truly felt like the best way to end a weekend getaway.
To book, check availability or prices for Minerals Hotel.
What I loved best:
What I love most is how The Crystal Springs feels worlds away yet there's so much to do.
2. The Thayer Hotel - 1.5 hours from NYC
I was a big fan of this historic getaway at West Point when I moved to New York, just 1.5 hours away, and it quickly became one of our favorite escapes.
What I love about visiting West Point is that it feels like a complete change of pace from New York City while still being an easy getaway. The scenery along the Hudson River is beautiful, the history is fascinating, and the grounds are incredibly well maintained. I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and planning ahead, especially if you want to tour the United States Military Academy.
To get to West Point, I suggest taking the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan to Garrison Station, which takes about 75 minutes and costs roughly $15–20 USD one way, depending on peak hours. From Garrison, you can take a short taxi or rideshare across the river to West Point. You can also drive from Manhattan in about 1.5 hours, which gives you more flexibility once you arrive. I prefer the train because the views along the Hudson are stunning and it’s far less stressful than driving.
Once you’re at West Point, I highly recommend joining an official guided tour of the academy ($22/person). Since it’s an active military installation, access is limited, and tours are the best way to see the campus while learning about its history and traditions. Highlights include Cadet Chapel, Trophy Point, and sweeping views of the Hudson River that are some of the best in the region.
Next, if you have extra time, take a walk along the river or explore nearby Cold Spring, a charming town with antique shops, cafés, and riverside trails. There are also plenty of scenic overlooks and hiking opportunities in the Hudson Highlands, making this a great destination if you enjoy mixing history with the outdoors.
I think that The Thayer is best for families will appreciate the proximity to West Point’s museums, tours, and scenic hikes in the Hudson Valley. Definitely one of my favorite finds in New York State!
Our King Deluxe Room for two days was spacious and comfortable, measuring 220 sq ft, with traditional décor and all the modern comforts. I especially loved waking up to river views because they made me forget how close I was to New York City.
To book, check availability or prices for the 3-star The Thayer Hotel.
What I loved best:
Watching the light fade over the Hudson for 30 minutes was easily my personal highlight of the stay.
Dining was another highlight, especially MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant which serves elevated meals with breathtaking views. I also thought that the Zulu Time rooftop bar is the perfect spot for cocktails at sunset for couples on a romantic getaway.
3. Hasbrouck House - 2 hours from NYC
Chris and I both absolutely love Hudson Valley, and have been many times when we lived in NYC for 10 years (and we still often go back!). Stretching along quiet country roads at the edge of the Catskills, Stone Ridge is one of the most charming and underrated small towns I’ve explored in New York, and I think it’s one of the absolute best weekend escapes in the Hudson Valley.
This tiny hamlet, surrounded by rolling farmland and mountain views, gave us a getaway that felt both deeply historic and wonderfully slow—perfect for reconnecting and savoring time together.
We started our day at the Stone Ridge Historic District, where centuries-old stone houses line the road and make it feel like you’ve stepped into another era. Walking through the village was peaceful and grounding, with every building telling a quiet story.
We spent time browsing local shops and galleries, each one small but thoughtful, offering handcrafted goods, books, and art that encouraged us to linger rather than rush.
Lunch was a highlight at a farm-to-table café, where fresh, seasonal ingredients turned a simple meal into something memorable. Sharing plates and lingering over coffee made the afternoon feel effortless.
Later, we explored nearby Mohonk Preserve ($15/day for hikers or $20/day for bikers), where gentle trails and scenic overlooks gave us space to walk side by side, talk, and just enjoy the quiet beauty of nature.
As evening approached, we checked into Hasbrouck House, easily one of my favorite spots in all of Hudson Valley for a romantic weekend getaway! I love how this historic property combines rich history of its beautifully restored 18th-century Dutch Colonial stone mansion with the lush groundings where we strolled under century-old trees around a serene pond.
Our Classic Room for two nights was elegant, comfortable, with thoughtful details like Frette bedding, and a relaxing spa-like bathroom with Grown Alchemist bath amenities.
We were there when it was getting cold outside in the fall and it was the kind of place where you want to open the windows to enjoy crisp Hudson Valley air in the morning, and then curl up with a book by the fireplace in the evening.
Between the cedar sauna and cold plunge, 100-year-old landmark pool, hiking trails nearby, and small towns just minutes away, Hasbrouck House makes it easy to craft your ideal weekend getaway from NYC. Trust me, a stay here feels like a refreshing reset and you can make it totally unique for your own romantic weekend getaway.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star Hasbrouck House.
What I loved best:
Dining at Butterfield, the on-site restaurant, was my personal highlight, especially great farm-to-table dishes that showcase local ingredients.
4. Shelter Island House in New York - 2 hours 30 minutes
This is hands down one of my favorite hidden gems on Long Island, a stylish yet laid-back boutique hotel that’s perfect for a romantic weekend getaway or some solo RR.
To reach Shelter Island House, we took the ferry from Greenport. The ride was just a few minutes across the Peconic Bay before landing on Shelter Island (in total, it took us 2.5 hours from New York City).
We adored how it feels like a true retreat, tucked away on a quiet island where life moves at a slower pace. The inn has a chic, coastal vibe with bright, airy interiors, crisp linens, and thoughtful details that made our room feel inviting and comfortable.
In addition, I appreciated how the property has a lovely balance of relaxation and fun. We could play lawn games in the garden, borrow bikes to explore the island, or take a short romantic stroll to Crescent Beach for sunset views.
We were here for a late summer getaway and I thought the Oysters ‘R’ Here in September was especially fun.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star Shelter Island House.
What I loved best:
My favorite part was lounging by the pool...it felt worlds away from the city.
Dining is another highlight. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, seasonal dishes with a local twist. It really is the kind of place where you can spend the whole weekend without ever needing to leave, so it's easy to decompress in a short time!
5. Scranton Seahorse Inn - 1 hour 50 minutes from NYC
I thought this was one of the best spots for a cozy couples' weekend getaway. Nestled right in the heart of Madison, Connecticut this charming bed-and-breakfast has that welcoming, homey vibe that makes you feel like family from the moment you step inside.
Our room for two days had a fireplace (some even have a whirlpool tub!), which made our stay feel extra romantic. The inn itself is a beautifully restored 1833 Federal-style home, and every room has its own character so you can look for something that is meaningful for your own weekend getaway.
My favourite part was how warm and inviting the décor felt with classic New England touches mixed with cheerful, nautical-inspired details.
In addition, breakfast at Scranton Seahorse Inn is truly something special. Each morning, I was treated to homemade dishes crafted with fresh, local ingredients. Sitting in the sunny dining room with a cup of coffee and a warm breakfast made me feel like I was starting the day in the best way possible. It’s no wonder guests return again and again for that personal touch.
To book, check availability or prices for the 3-star Scranton Seahorse Inn.
What I loved best:
In the evenings, my highlight was strolling through the quaint town before returning to the comfort of the inn.
In fact, the location is another reason why this inn is such an underrated gem. Just a short walk away, you’ll find Madison’s boutique shops, restaurants, and the beach, making it easy to enjoy both relaxation and exploration in 48 hours.
6. Winvian Farm - about 2 hours from NYC
I absolutely loved this whimsical luxury escape tucked away in the rolling hills of Litchfield County.
I drove about two hours northeast from New York City and we stayed in a beautiful cottage, a standalone space surrounded by trees. Winvian felt like a retreat where every corner invited rest... my own private soaking tub, a leather chair by the fire, a porch with a view of the woods.
The serene spa with treatment rooms set in the woods was my personal highlight. I recommend splurging on a 60-minute massage to jumpstart your weekend right.
You can trust that this place is special, serves incredible food, and luxurious because it has earned two AAA Five Diamond Awards (one for the property, one for the restaurant).
To book, check availability or prices for the 5-star Winvian .
What I loved best:
I thought the outdoor pool was perfect for lazy afternoons. In addition, I loved how cozy common spaces felt ... more like a friend’s country estate than a hotel.
A downside? Because each cottage is so unique, rates are higher compared to standard hotels.
7. A Tiny House Resort - 2 hours 15 minutes from NYC
This resort in the Catskills is one of my favorite underrated spots for a weekend getaway from NYC, perfect if you’re looking for something unique, cozy, and a little bit magical.
Tucked along the Catskill Creek in South Cairo, this hidden gem is all about slowing down and enjoying the simple things in life.
What I love most is how each tiny house is thoughtfully designed. The spaces may be small, but they’re incredibly charming. Our tiny house for two days had a smart layout, comfy beds, a full kitchen, and big windows that frame the natural beauty outside.
My favorite part was sipping morning coffee on the deck and listening to the creek flow by.
For couples, the setting feels private and romantic, especially at night when the stars came out. Activities are plentiful too. You can paddle in the creek, take a hike right from the property, rent an electric bike (for an extra fee), and relax with a good book by the water. I love that it's such a great base for exploring nearby Hudson Valley towns, wineries, and hiking trails.
What I loved best:
The resort itself has so many little extras that make it special. There are fire pits for roasting marshmallows which were my personal highlight, hammocks between trees, and even a studio for artists where you can paint and make tile art (there is a small fee to use the studio)!
8. Rabbit Hill Inn, Vermont - 6 hours from NYC
If you have time for a three-day (or a four-day holiday) weekend, this is one of the most romantic spots to celebrate a special occasion. When my husband and I checked in for our anniversary, I felt like I had discovered a true sanctuary with warm fires, inviting common rooms, and a quiet countryside setting.
My favorite part was our individually decorated room for two days, with a canopy bed, a whirlpool tub, and a fireplace that made me forget to check my email and text messages for the weekend!
The dining was another highlight, with a romantic candlelit restaurant that served creative farm-to-table dishes crafted with local Vermont ingredients.
Every moment, from breakfast in bed to stargazing in the quiet countryside, felt like it was designed for just for us. Rabbit Hill Inn is truly my favorite type of romantic getaway...underrated, elegant, and filled with the kind of magic that makes a weekend linger.
To book, check availability or prices for The Rabbit Hill Inn.
What I loved best:
My highlight was how easy it was to balance relaxation and adventure since we could spend the day exploring White Mountain trails, then return for a cozy evening by the fire.
9. Hull-O-Farms: A Weekend on the Farm - 2 hours 45 minutes from NYC
This one is for families needing a digital detox (just like my family did)! When we arrived to this unique place in upstate New York, I felt like we had stepped into a world where family time and fresh country air mattered more than anything else. My family and I drove about 2 hours 40 minutes north from New York City into the northern Catskills.
From the moment we were welcomed, my son was running toward the animals with so much joyful excitement. I loved watching him feed goats and pet baby chicks...it felt like a hidden gem of simple pleasures and plenty of time outdoors.
Our farmhouse for two days was cozy and special. In fact, there are just two private guest houses (so book early!). We stayed at The Rose which has 2 bedrooms (one queen bed in the first bedroom and a set of bunk beds in the second), a sleeper sofa, full kitchen, full bath, and a living room with pine floors made from the farm's own forests! If you are planning a family reunion, The Gifford house is the larger of the two, with 4 bedrooms and a cool outdoor deck.
During our weekend stay, my husband and I relaxed as we watched our son help with morning chores. I thought it was the coolest experience to see him gather eggs and learn about farm life firsthand.
We spent the afternoon wandering through wide-open fields, fishing in the pond, and taking in spectacular views of the Catskill Mountains all around us.
Evenings were peaceful, with the three of us sitting on the porch, watching the sun set over the fields .
To book, check availability or prices for Hull-O-Farms.
What I loved best:
One of my favorite parts at Hull-O-Farms was the family-style meals, where hearty home-cooked food brought us together at the table and made us feel like part of the farm family.
10. 34 State in Skaneateles - about 4 hours from NYC
We started our weekend getaway from NYC early, driving upstate toward the Finger Lakes region of New York, where Skaneateles awaited.
The drive itself was part of the experience, rolling hills and small towns building excitement for what felt like a dream escape from the city.
First thing we did was walk straight to Skaneateles Lake, which is one of the most beautiful and underrated lakes in upstate NY, seriously amazing.
We grabbed coffee on Genesee Street and just walked around, which was my favorite way to soak in the vibrant village vibes and historic charm. Next we explored the small shops and galleries, and it felt like the absolute best mix of romantic and family friendly energy.
Lunch came next and we picked a cozy lakeside restaurant, which was an awesome experience with spectacular water views. In the afternoon we took a boat cruise on the lake, and it was the most relaxing part of the weekend.
Later we checked into 34 State nearby, and I loved how peaceful and affordable it felt compared to big city hotels. I was fascinated to learn that 34 State dates back to the 1830s and once belonged to Judge Richard Kellogg, giving the entire property a sense of history.
We stayed in the Barrow Suite for two nights over the weekend, which was beautifully designed, and decorated with John D. Barrow artwork, antiques, and a comfortable sitting area. I appreciated luxury touches like 500 thread count linens, Frette bathrobes and an in-suite white noise machine.
Dinner was another highlight, with fresh local food that felt unique and exciting without being too fancy.
That night we walked along the lake at sunset, which honestly felt like a romantic movie scene.
The next morning we explored nearby waterfalls and trails around the Finger Lakes, a brilliant idea and such a cool contrast to NYC life.
Before heading back, we had brunch in town and already started planning our next weekend getaway here.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star 34 State.
What I loved best:
For me, 34 State is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC because it's romantic and unique!
The inn’s location was a highlight and I thought that couldn’t be better...just a block from Skaneateles Lake and the village center, yet tucked away on a peaceful, tree-lined street.
In addition, I enjoyed visiting during the 4-week Skaneateles Festival during the summer where you can hear the best music in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
