New York City's greater metropolitan region is home to a plethora of delightful romantic getaway destinations, many of which are easily accessible via public transit or Amtrak train service. Couples looking for a getaway from the city can travel to some of the Jersey Shore's top nightlife destinations, explore the quaint cities of the beautiful Hudson Valley, or travel to the nearby Finger Lakes, known for their connection to 20th-century historical events like the women's suffrage movement.
Highlights:
- The Hudson Valley – cozy bed-and-breakfasts, wineries, and river views
- The Catskills – mountain cabins, hiking trails, and charming small towns
- Montauk – beachside bliss, seafood dining, and sunset strolls
- Newport, RI – historic mansions, harbor views, and romantic dining
- The Berkshires – art museums, scenic drives, and cozy countryside inns
1. Quick & Easy Escapes (Under 2 Hours)
Rating: ★★★★★
Cold Spring, NY – 1.5 hours. A riverside village perfect for antique shopping, scenic Hudson hikes, and cozy cafés.
Beacon, NY – 1.5 hours. Discover contemporary art at Dia Beacon, hike Mount Beacon, and browse local shops and breweries downtown.
Hudson, NY – 2 hours. A stylish small town known for vintage shops, gallery hopping, and hip wine bars on Warren Street.
Princeton, NJ – 1.5 hours. Explore a historic college town with elegant gardens, museums, and beautiful campus architecture.
Cornwall, NY – 1.5 hours. Visit the massive open-air sculptures at Storm King Art Center and soak up Hudson Valley scenery.
Coney Island, Brooklyn – 1 hour. Enjoy nostalgic boardwalk fun with roller coasters, carnival games, Nathan’s hot dogs, and beachside sunsets.
Governors Island, NY – 15 mins by ferry. A peaceful island getaway with bike rentals, relaxing hammocks, and sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Governors Island is a perfect escape if you don't have a car.
2. Beachy & Breezy Escapes
Asbury Park, NJ – 1.5 hours. A retro-cool beach town with a lively boardwalk, vintage pinball museum, and live music venues.
Atlantic City, NJ – 2.5 hours. Try your luck at the casinos, walk the iconic boardwalk, or relax on the wide sandy beaches.
Montauk, NY – 3 hours. Laid-back surf culture meets scenic views with beaches, historic lighthouses, and oceanfront seafood spots.
The Hamptons, NY – 2.5 to 3 hours. An upscale coastal escape offering wine tastings, sandy beaches, and charming hotels perfect for a couples' getaway.
Rockaway Beach, Queens – 1 hour. Hit the waves for surfing, sunbathe on the sand, or grab fish tacos along the boardwalk.
Discover more beaches near NYC!
3. Nature-Focused Retreats
Lake George, NY – 3.5–4 hours. A classic lakefront destination offering boat cruises, scenic byways, family-friendly attractions, and charming lakeside inns.
Saratoga Springs, NY – 3 hours. Famous for mineral springs and thoroughbred racing, this artsy town also features spas, museums, and a vibrant performing arts scene.
Lake Placid, NY – 5 hours. Nestled in the Adirondacks, this former Olympic host town offers mountain hikes, Mirror Lake kayaking, and alpine charm year-round.
Finger Lakes, NY – 4.5–5 hours. Discover rolling vineyards, peaceful lakes and stunning waterfalls.
Letchworth State Park, NY – 5.5 hours. Known as the “Grand Canyon of the East,” this park features dramatic waterfalls, forested trails, and breathtaking gorge views.
Plan Your Trip