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, I found the best weekend getaways from NYC to be incredibly varied and refreshing. Within just a few hours’ drive or train ride, I can swap the city’s nonstop energy for scenic mountains, charming river towns, peaceful beaches, and historic villages.
One of the most enjoyable parts is picking a cozy inn, chic boutique hotel, or countryside retreat to call your home base while you unwind. Here are some unique accommodations I discovered that I hope you’ll love for your next 48 hour getaway from New York.
1. The Crystal Springs Resort
This New Jersey resort is one of my favorite weekend getaways from NYC. Why? because it truly has something for everyone, whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a relaxing weekend with friends.
We drove northwest from Newark in about an hour, the highway giving way to wooded hills and quiet valleys before reaching Hamburg.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Sussex County, this resort feels like a hidden gem just a short drive from New York City, yet it feels worlds away once you arrive.
You can trust that this is a special hotel experience because it won the Travel + Leisure® “World’s Best Awards” 2025. What I love most is the variety. The resort is actually made up of two hotels, Grand Cascades Lodge and Minerals Hotel, each with its own vibe. Grand Cascades is luxurious and romantic, with stunning mountain views, elegant suites, and the famous Biosphere pool complex, which feels like a tropical oasis year-round.
Minerals Hotel, on the other hand, where we stayed for three days, is perfect for families, with easy access to hiking, indoor and outdoor pools, and tons of kid-friendly activities. Dining here is a treat too. From casual cafés to refined restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine and award-winning wine, there’s something for every mood.
Crystal Springs is also packed with activities. Guests can golf on championship courses if you have four hours to spare, explore hiking trails for an hour, indulge in a 60-minute massage, or simply unwind by the pool. In the winter, it’s also close to Mountain Creek for skiing and snowboarding, making it a true year-round destination.
For me, Crystal Springs Resort is one of the best underrated escapes in New Jersey because it's luxurious, versatile, and always memorable.
What I loved best:
My favorite experience was enjoying a romantic dinner at Restaurant Latour, which has an incredible wine cellar and an intimate atmosphere.
2. The Thayer Hotel - 1.5 hours from NYC
One of the best weekend getaways from NYC when I moved to New York was the this hotel at West Point. This awesome historic getaway is just 1.5 hours from New York City and it completely won me over. Perched high above the Hudson River, this underrated gem combines rich military history with classic elegance, making it an ideal spot for a romantic weekend or even a fun family escape.
From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere feels special. The castle-like stone architecture and views of the Hudson set the tone, and stepping inside feels like walking into a piece of American history.
The hotel has hosted presidents, dignitaries, and world leaders, yet it still feels warm and welcoming.
My room for two days was cozy and refined, blending traditional décor with modern comforts. I especially loved waking up to river views—the kind of serene, peaceful start to the day that makes you forget how close you are to New York City.
For couples, the Thayer has a romantic charm, while families will appreciate the proximity to West Point’s museums, tours, and scenic hikes in the Hudson Valley.
Dining was another highlight for me. MacArthur’s Riverview Restaurant offers hearty, elevated meals with breathtaking views, and the Zulu Time rooftop bar is the perfect spot for cocktails at sunset.
For me, the Thayer Hotel is one of the best hidden treasures near NYC, historic, elegant, and full of character. It’s the kind of place that turns a simple weekend into a meaningful, memorable getaway.
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.
3. Hasbrouck House
This place is perfect for a romantic weekend escape for couples looking to get awat.
Just about two hours from NYC, it feels worlds away with its mix of history, style, and laid-back luxury.
The inn is housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century Dutch Colonial stone mansion surrounded by lush grounds, century-old trees, and a serene pond.
It has all the charm of a historic estate but with a fresh, modern design that makes it feel chic and welcoming.
My room for two nights was elegant, comfortable, with thoughtful details like plush bedding, vintage-inspired décor, and spa-like bathrooms.
It’s the kind of place where you want to curl up with a book by the fireplace or open the windows to enjoy crisp Hudson Valley air.
Dining was another highlight. Butterfield, the on-site restaurant, serves seasonal farm-to-table dishes that showcase local ingredients.
I especially loved lingering over dinner with a glass of wine before wandering outside to sit by the fire pit under the stars.
Between the pool, hiking trails nearby, and charming small towns just minutes away, Hasbrouck House makes it easy to craft your ideal weekend getaway from NYC.
For me, it’s one of the best underrated boutique inns in upstate New York—romantic, stylish, and effortlessly relaxing. A stay here feels like a refreshing reset.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star Hasbrouck House.
What I loved best:
My favorite touch was how each space felt unique, no cookie-cutter hotel rooms here which truly was a highlight.
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 a relaxed family escape.
We took the ferry from Greenport, the ride was just a few minutes across the Peconic Bay before landing on Shelter Island.
Just about 2.5 hours from New York City, it feels like a true retreat, tucked away on quiet Shelter Island where life moves at a slower pace.
What I love most is the atmosphere. The inn has a chic, coastal vibe with bright, airy interiors, crisp linens, and thoughtful details that make every room feel inviting.
The property has a lovely balance of relaxation and fun. Guests can play lawn games in the garden, borrow bikes to explore the island, or take a short stroll to Crescent Beach for sunset views.
For couples, it’s wonderfully romantic, but families will also appreciate the easygoing setting and spacious outdoor areas. I thought the Oysters ‘R’ Here in September was especially fun.
Dining is another highlight. The on-site restaurant serves fresh, seasonal dishes with a local twist, and evenings often feature cocktails by the bar or fireside chats under the stars.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend the whole weekend without ever needing to leave.
For me, Shelter Island House is one of the best underrated escapes near NYC. Between the poolside relaxation, the beach charm, and the welcoming vibe, it’s a destination that makes any weekend feel special. If you’re looking for a refreshing coastal getaway, this is a favorite worth discovering.
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 yet still effortlessly sophisticated.
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, this charming bed-and-breakfast has that welcoming, homey vibe that makes you feel like family from the moment you step inside.
The inn itself is a beautifully restored 1833 Federal-style home, and every room has its own character.
My favorite part was how warm and inviting the décor felt with classic New England touches mixed with cheerful, nautical-inspired details. Our room for two days had a fireplace (some even have a whirlpool tub!), which made our stay feel extra romantic.
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.
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 one trip.
For me, the Scranton Seahorse Inn is the perfect blend of romance, charm, and family-friendly warmth. Whether you’re looking for a quiet retreat, a romantic escape, or a coastal weekend getaway, it’s a place that will quickly become one of your favorites.
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.
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 into the Litchfield Hills of Connecticut, where winding backroads passed stone walls, forested ridges, and quiet villages.
We stayed in a beautiful cottage, a standalone space surrounded by trees. Winvian felt like a retreat where every corner invited rest: a 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 a personal highlight. I recommend splurging on a 60-minute massage to jumpstart your weekend.
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, and loved how cozy common spaces that felt more like a friend’s country estate than a hotel.
A downside? Because each cottage is so unique, rates are usually higher compared to standard hotels.
7. A Tiny House Resort, New York
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, whether you’re planning a romantic retreat or a fun family escape.
What I love most is how each tiny house is thoughtfully designed. The spaces may be small, but they’re incredibly charming, with smart layouts, comfy beds, full kitchens, and big windows that frame the natural beauty outside.
My favorite part was sipping morning coffee on the deck, listening to the creek flow by—it felt peaceful and grounding.
For couples, the setting feels private and romantic, especially at night when the stars shine bright over the mountains. Activities are plentiful too. You can paddle in the creek, take a hike right from the property, or simply 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.
For me, A Tiny House Resort is one of the best hidden gems in New York. It’s quirky, cozy, and memorable—the kind of getaway that leaves you feeling refreshed, connected, and already planning your next visit.
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 strung between trees, and even a small farm with goats and chickens that kids absolutely love.
8. Rabbit Hill Inn, Vermont - 6 hours from NYC
This is one of the best underrated escapes from New York City for couples who want both luxury and a sense of home and I felt like I had discovered a true sanctuary—warm fires, inviting common rooms, and a quiet countryside setting created the perfect atmosphere for romance.
The drive from New York City takes 6 hours, so I recommend it as a three-day weekend!
My favorite part was our individually decorated room for two days, with a canopy bed, whirlpool tub, and a fireplace that made every evening feel indulgent.
I loved the little touches that made the stay special—plush robes, gourmet chocolates, and fresh flowers waiting in the room for us to enjoy.
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 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
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, and I loved watching him feed goats and pet baby chicks—it felt like a hidden gem of simple pleasures.
My husband and I relaxed as we watched our son help with morning chores, and it was the coolest experience to see him gather eggs and learn about farm life firsthand.
We spent the afternoon wandering the wide-open fields, fishing in the pond, and taking in spectacular views of the Catskill Mountains all around us.
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.
I thought it was awesome how Hull-O-Farms gave us the rare chance to disconnect from screens and reconnect with each other in the most meaningful way.
Evenings were peaceful, with the three of us sitting on the porch, watching the sun set over the fields while fireflies began to glow.
What I loved best:
I loved how the farm balanced fun for kids with relaxation for adults—it was exciting to see my son so engaged while my husband and I could unwind.
10. 34 State in Skaneateles - about 4 hours from NYC
This is one of my favorite hidden gems in Upstate New York, perfect for a romantic escape or a cozy long weekend getaway.
Nestled just steps from the village’s charming shops, restaurants, and pristine lakefront, this boutique inn feels both intimate and indulgent.
We drove west from Syracuse in about half an hour, the road dipping into rolling hills before the clear blue waters of Skaneateles Lake came into view. The town felt bright and welcoming along the shoreline.
What truly charms me is staying in a beautifully restored historic home, built in 1834 and once the residence of artist John D. Barrow.
It elegantly blends antiques, designer décor, and museum-quality artwork—including one original painting in each suite.
The suites themselves are spacious and serene, complete with plush bedding, soundproof comfort, kitchenettes, and garden or village views that make waking up feel special.
What I love about 34 State is its “quiet concierge” approach—discreet but attentive service that respects your privacy, whether you’d like reservations made, massage appointments arranged, or a favorite wine waiting in your suite. I enjoyed the 4-week Skaneateles Festival during the summer where you can hear the best music in the heart of the Finger Lakes Region.
For me, 34 State is the best kind of inn—it’s historic without feeling stuffy, elegant yet welcoming, and thoughtfully tailored for a memorable stay.
Whether you’re looking to unwind, explore the Finger Lakes, or enjoy a romantic weekend, this place feels like home—but elevated.
To book, check availability or prices for the 4-star 34 State.
What I loved best:
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.
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.
