17 Best Weekend Getaways Outside NYC (2025 Edition): Beaches, Mountains & Hidden Escapes

Sometimes, you don’t need a plane ticket to feel far from New York City. A few hours on the road can bring you to quiet lakes, charming coastal towns, or mountain hideouts where time slows down. These weekend getaways outside NYC are close enough for an easy drive but far enough to clear your head.

Whether you want a romantic weekend, a fun family trip, or a solo reset, there’s something within reach. You can spend your mornings hiking through fall leaves, your afternoons tasting wine in the Hudson Valley, or your evenings watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

17 of the Best Weekend Getaways Outside NYC

Each spot here is less than five hours from Manhattan—some barely two. These are the best weekend trips near New York City for every mood, season, and traveler.

Pack light, leave early, and get ready to rediscover how much beauty sits right outside NYC.

1. Hudson Valley, New York – Scenic Drives, Wineries & Small-Town Charm

Distance: About 2 hours from NYC

The Hudson Valley feels made for weekend escapes. It’s filled with farm markets, wineries, and riverfront towns that look straight out of a painting. If you’re looking for romantic getaways near NYC, this region checks every box.

Start your morning with a drive along Route 9, stopping at orchards for cider donuts or farm stands for fresh apples. Spend the afternoon exploring towns like Beacon or Rhinebeck, where you’ll find art galleries, bookstores, and cozy cafés. For something scenic, hike Breakneck Ridge or stroll across the Walkway Over the Hudson.

If you’re into food and wine, plan a stop at Millbrook Vineyards or grab a table at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park. Many travelers also love the Storm King Art Center, where massive outdoor sculptures sit among rolling hills.

Stay the night at Mohonk Mountain House, an iconic lakeside resort that blends luxury with history, or pick a local B&B for a quieter night. Whether you come for fall colors or spring blooms, the Hudson Valley always feels like a perfect escape from city life.

Why it’s one of the best weekend getaways outside NYC: Easy to reach, rich in nature, great for couples and families, and full of year-round charm.

2. The Catskills, New York – Forest Trails & Cozy Cabins

Distance: Around 2.5 hours from NYC

If you’re craving fresh mountain air, head to the Catskills, one of the most classic weekend getaways from New York City. The drive itself feels like therapy—green valleys, winding rivers, and small towns tucked between the trees.

The region has something for everyone. In summer, you can tube down the Esopus Creek or hike to waterfalls at Kaaterskill Falls. In winter, you can ski at Hunter or Windham Mountain. Many travelers come simply to unwind in log cabins with hot tubs and fire pits.

Towns like Phoenicia and Tannersville have that easy small-town rhythm, with coffee shops, craft stores, and diners that haven’t changed in decades. For a dose of art and good food, stop by Woodstock—it’s creative, laid-back, and full of history.

Stay at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge or one of the stylish boutique cabins scattered through the hills. If you’re traveling with kids, you’ll find family resorts with pools and outdoor movie nights.

The Catskills are beautiful in every season—lush in summer, fiery in fall, and snowy in winter. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how peaceful life can feel just a few hours outside New York City.

3. Lake Placid, New York – Mountain Air, Mirror Lake Views & Olympic Spirit

Distance: About 5 hours from NYC

Tucked deep in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is one of those rare places that feels peaceful yet full of life. It’s a classic weekend getaway outside NYC that balances nature, comfort, and a touch of nostalgia. You’ll find crisp mountain air, shimmering lakes, and cozy lodges that make you forget about deadlines or subway noise.

In summer, paddle across Mirror Lake or take a drive up Whiteface Mountain for panoramic views that stretch for miles. Families can spend the day exploring the Lake Placid Olympic Museum or trying the Cliffside Coaster—the country’s longest mountain coaster. Winter brings skiing, snowshoeing, and evenings by the fire at a rustic lodge.

Downtown has a warm, small-town energy with boutique shops and local restaurants. Don’t miss Smoke Signals for lakeside barbecue or The Breakfast Club for hearty pancakes before heading out to the trails.

Stay at Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa for luxury, or book Whiteface Lodge for a family-friendly mountain retreat with game rooms, s’mores nights, and an indoor pool.

Why visit: Lake Placid works year-round. You can hike, ski, swim, or simply sit by the water and watch the mountains reflect in the lake—it’s that kind of magic.

4. Cape May, New Jersey – Victorian Charm & Peaceful Beaches

Distance: Around 3 hours from NYC

If you want the beach without the crowds of the Hamptons, Cape May is your answer. This seaside town at the southern tip of New Jersey mixes quiet nostalgia with coastal beauty. Think colorful Victorian houses, horse-drawn carriages, and soft sandy beaches that stretch for miles.

Days here are simple: grab your towel, find your spot on the beach, and stay until sunset. Families love how calm and safe the water feels, while couples enjoy sunset walks past the candy-colored cottages. For a little adventure, book a dolphin-watching cruise or explore the Cape May Lighthouse.

Downtown’s pedestrian streets are full of boutiques, ice cream parlors, and seafood spots. Don’t miss The Lobster House or George’s Place for dinner. And if you’re traveling with kids, a stop at the local fudge and saltwater taffy shops is non-negotiable.

Stay at Congress Hall, America’s oldest seaside resort, or pick a cozy bed-and-breakfast within walking distance of the beach. In fall, the town turns golden with quiet streets and cool sea air—perfect for those off-season getaways outside New York City.

5. Mystic, Connecticut – Seaside Village & New England Nostalgia

Distance: About 2.5 hours from NYC

Few towns capture New England’s charm like Mystic. Known for its maritime history and laid-back energy, this waterfront village is one of the most loved weekend trips from NYC for couples and families alike.

Start at the Mystic Seaport Museum, where historic ships and coastal exhibits tell stories of life by the sea. Then wander along the docks, stop for ice cream at Mystic Drawbridge Ice Cream, or grab lunch at S&P Oyster overlooking the river. The Mystic Aquarium is a must for families—Beluga whales, penguins, and sea lions all make it worth the stop.

Kayaking along the Mystic River at sunset is one of the best ways to end the day. If you’d rather stay on land, Olde Mistick Village offers small shops and cafés under twinkling lights.

Stay at The Whaler’s Inn, a historic hotel with modern comfort, or the Delamar Mystic for waterfront luxury.

Why it’s special: It feels cozy, nautical, and timeless. Mystic gives you that perfect mix of history, seaside calm, and easy weekend adventure—without ever feeling rushed.

6. The Berkshires, Massachusetts – Art, Nature & Cozy Mountain Towns

Distance: Around 3 hours from NYC

Set along the western edge of Massachusetts, the Berkshires blend culture and countryside in a way that few places can. This region is known for art galleries, theater festivals, mountain trails, and small towns that seem frozen in time. It’s one of those weekend getaways outside NYC where you can hike in the morning and catch a live concert at night.

If you’re into the arts, visit MASS MoCA in North Adams or see a performance at Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra. Nature lovers can explore the trails at Monument Mountain or go leaf-peeping in fall when the hills turn gold and red.

Food here is simple and comforting—local farms supply most of the ingredients. Try Café Adam in Great Barrington or grab pastries from a roadside market. You’ll also find several wellness retreats and yoga lodges that make it a perfect escape for anyone craving stillness.

Stay at Canyon Ranch in Lenox for a relaxing spa retreat, or pick a quiet B&B near Stockbridge for a more intimate stay. The Berkshires feel miles away from the city’s chaos yet still close enough for a long weekend that actually resets you.

7. North Fork, Long Island – Wineries, Coastal Drives & Peaceful Beaches

Distance: About 2 hours from NYC

If you like the idea of the Hamptons but prefer fewer crowds and more open space, the North Fork of Long Island is where you should head. This 30-mile stretch of farmland and coastline feels refreshingly down-to-earth.

The region is full of vineyards, oyster farms, and beaches that invite slow mornings and long lunches. You can drive between Greenport and Southold, tasting wines at Bedell Cellars or Kontokosta Winery, and stop for seafood at The Halyard overlooking the water. Families can visit lavender fields in summer or pick apples in the fall.

Downtown Greenport is charming with its small shops, coffee stops, and marinas. For a quiet evening, walk the pier at sunset and watch sailboats drift past.

Stay at Sound View Greenport, a waterfront hotel with a calm, minimalist vibe, or Silver Sands Motel & Beach Bungalows for a cozy coastal retreat.

The North Fork delivers a simple kind of beauty—unpolished, open, and perfectly suited for travelers who want a weekend escape from NYC that feels both scenic and easygoing.

8. The Hamptons, Long Island – Seaside Luxury & Coastal Calm

Distance: Around 2.5 hours from NYC

Few places say “New York weekend escape” like The Hamptons. While it’s famous for summer crowds and celebrity homes, it’s also full of quiet beaches, local art, and small villages where life slows down.

Spend your mornings walking Coopers Beach in Southampton or biking the back roads through Sag Harbor. Shop at local farm stands for peaches and sunflowers, then stop for lunch at The Lobster Roll or Duryea’s Montauk. For art lovers, the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill is worth an hour or two.

Summer brings the buzz, but fall and spring reveal the softer side of this area—empty beaches, cool breezes, and golden light. You can visit wineries, take a yoga class by the dunes, or simply enjoy a long dinner with the sound of the ocean nearby.

Stay at The Reform Club in Amagansett for high-end comfort or The 1708 House in Southampton for timeless coastal charm. The Hamptons can be as peaceful or social as you want them to be—either way, it’s one of the most iconic weekend getaways near New York City.

9. Newport, Rhode Island – Historic Mansions & Ocean Views

Distance: About 3.5 hours from NYC

If you love old-world charm mixed with coastal elegance, Newport is one of the best weekend getaways outside NYC you can take. The city blends luxury with history, from Gilded Age mansions to cliffside walks that feel straight out of a movie.

Start your visit with the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail that hugs the Atlantic and passes by the famous Breakers Mansion. History buffs can tour the lavish homes built by America’s wealthiest families, while food lovers can enjoy fresh lobster rolls and seaside dining at The Mooring or Clarke Cooke House.

Newport also shines in the evening. Take a sunset cruise from Bowen’s Wharf or grab a drink at the Roof Deck at The Vanderbilt. It’s the perfect mix of seaside relaxation and refined living.

Stay at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection for luxury or Newport Harbor Island Resort for unbeatable views. Newport’s coastal beauty, romantic atmosphere, and rich history make it one of the most rewarding escapes from New York City.

10. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – Urban Energy with a Relaxed Edge

Distance: About 2 hours from NYC

When you want a break from New York’s pace but still crave city life, Philadelphia delivers. It’s walkable, full of history, and has a food scene that easily rivals NYC. This makes it one of the most convenient weekend trips near New York City for those who don’t want to spend all day driving.

Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, explore Independence Hall, and don’t forget the cheesesteaks at John’s Roast Pork or Dalessandro’s. You can spend an afternoon wandering through Reading Terminal Market or checking out street murals in Fishtown.

Families love the Franklin Institute, while couples can enjoy a romantic stroll along Boathouse Row or a quiet dinner at Zahav, one of the city’s top restaurants.

Stay at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco for style and comfort or The Logan Philadelphia near the art museum. Philly offers the best of both worlds: cultural depth, great food, and a slower rhythm that still feels familiar to any New Yorker.

11. Saratoga Springs, New York – Spas, Horses & Historic Streets

Distance: Around 3.5–4 hours from NYC

Known for its mineral springs and famous racetrack, Saratoga Springs combines small-town charm with a touch of old-world glamour. It’s one of those weekend getaways from New York City where you can unwind and still find plenty to do.

Start your trip at Saratoga Spa State Park, where you can soak in the natural springs or take a walk through the leafy trails. In summer, the Saratoga Race Course draws visitors from across the country. If you come in fall, you’ll find colorful trees, outdoor markets, and cozy cafés on every corner.

Downtown Saratoga has boutique shops, wine bars, and local breweries. Grab dinner at 15 Church or Druthers Brewing Company, then end your night with live jazz at Caffè Lena, one of the oldest music venues in the country.

Stay at The Gideon Putnam, a historic hotel set inside the park, or book a modern stay at Adelphi Hotel downtown. Whether you come for the races, the spas, or the calm energy, Saratoga Springs feels like a true break from city life.

12. Woodstock, New York – Creative Energy & Mountain Calm

Distance: About 2 hours from NYC

Few towns balance art, music, and mountain scenery as effortlessly as Woodstock. Once famous for its role in the 1969 counterculture movement, today it’s one of the most peaceful weekend getaways outside NYC—a blend of forest trails, local art, and quiet cafés.

You can spend a morning hiking Overlook Mountain, wander through small galleries on Tinker Street, or visit the Woodstock Byrdcliffe Guild, one of America’s oldest art colonies. Stop for lunch at Garden Café for plant-based comfort food, or enjoy live music and craft beer at The Colony.

Woodstock is also a year-round favorite. In summer, it’s green and alive with outdoor shows; in winter, it’s cozy, snow-dusted, and calm.

Stay at Woodstock Way Hotel for modern design beside a waterfall, or Twin Gables of Woodstock for a nostalgic bed-and-breakfast vibe. The mix of creativity and calm makes Woodstock perfect for artists, couples, or anyone who needs a simple mountain reset.

13. Asbury Park, New Jersey – Beach, Music & Boardwalk Vibes

Distance: Around 1.5 hours from NYC

If you want a fun, easy beach escape without traveling far, Asbury Park is it. This revitalized Jersey Shore town has everything—live music, sandy beaches, and some of the best boardwalk eats near NYC.

Spend your morning on the beach or browsing the shops along Cookman Avenue. The boardwalk is full of energy with murals, vintage stores, and arcades that keep the old-school spirit alive. For lunch, try Porta for pizza or MOGO Korean Fusion Tacos. At night, catch a show at the legendary Stone Pony, where Bruce Springsteen got his start.

Stay at The Asbury Hotel for a modern, social vibe or Asbury Ocean Club Resort for luxury and sea views. Weekends here are vibrant yet relaxed—the perfect mix of summer energy and coastal calm.

14. The Finger Lakes, New York – Wine Country & Waterfall Adventures

Distance: About 4.5 hours from NYC

The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is one of the state’s most beautiful natural areas, famous for its long, narrow lakes, cascading waterfalls, and more than 100 wineries. It’s a must for anyone seeking scenic getaways from New York City that combine nature and great food.

Start at Watkins Glen State Park, where 19 waterfalls line the trail through a dramatic gorge. Then follow the Seneca Lake Wine Trail for tastings with views that rival California’s Napa Valley. Don’t miss local favorites like Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery or Fox Run Vineyards.

For outdoor lovers, there’s kayaking, hiking, and swimming all summer long. Fall brings apple picking and brilliant foliage across the hills.

Stay at Argos Inn in Ithaca, a restored mansion filled with art, or try The Lake House on Canandaigua for lakeside elegance. Between the vineyards, trails, and small towns, the Finger Lakes make you forget how close you still are to New York.

15. Cold Spring, New York – River Views & Small-Town Simplicity

Distance: Around 1.5 hours from NYC

For those craving peace without a long drive, Cold Spring is one of the best weekend getaways near NYC. Sitting quietly along the Hudson River, it offers charming streets, great hiking, and riverfront cafés where you can linger for hours.

Start your day with a stroll down Main Street, lined with antique shops and cozy coffee stops. Grab breakfast at Hudson Hil’s Café before heading out to Breakneck Ridge—a favorite among New Yorkers for its rewarding views. If you prefer something gentler, walk along the riverside trail or explore Foundry Dock Park.

Afterward, unwind with craft beer at Cold Spring Depot or browse the local art galleries. The town is small but full of personality, making it ideal for couples or solo travelers who want a short escape from city noise.

Stay at Pig Hill Inn, a quaint B&B with a garden terrace, or rent a riverside cottage for extra privacy. Every corner feels calm here, making Cold Spring a perfect quick reset for busy weeks.

16. Lake George, New York – Adirondack Adventures & Lakeside Serenity

Distance: About 3.5 hours from NYC

Nestled in the southern Adirondacks, Lake George is a classic upstate New York weekend getaway. With its wide blue lake, forested mountains, and family-friendly attractions, it’s great for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Start your day with a boat cruise across the lake or a morning swim from Million Dollar Beach. Hikers will love the Prospect Mountain Trail, which rewards you with panoramic views. Families can visit Fort William Henry Museum, go mini-golfing, or enjoy the amusement parks nearby.

In summer, the lake sparkles with activity—kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing are everywhere. In fall, the trees light up the shoreline with fiery colors.

Stay at The Sagamore Resort, a luxurious historic hotel on its own island, or choose a cozy cabin near the water for a simpler experience. Lake George has that rare mix of energy and calm that keeps travelers coming back year after year.

17. Shelter Island, New York – Hidden Between the Forks

Distance: About 2.5 hours from NYC (plus ferry)

Tucked between Long Island’s North and South Forks, Shelter Island is a quiet gem surrounded by water and nature preserves. You reach it by a short ferry ride, but once you arrive, it feels worlds away from city life.

Much of the island is protected land, including the Mashomack Preserve, where you can walk through oak forests and salt marshes while spotting herons and ospreys. Spend the afternoon kayaking around Coecles Harbor or cycling along empty backroads that curve past old homes and small marinas.

Stop by Vine Street Café for dinner—it’s beloved by locals—and stay at The Chequit, a boutique inn with soft tones and ocean breeze views. For a more social scene, try Sunset Beach Hotel, where evenings bring live music and seaside cocktails.

Shelter Island is calm, scenic, and often overlooked. It’s the kind of romantic getaway from NYC where you can spend hours doing nothing—and that’s exactly the point.

Final Thoughts

New York City’s energy never fades, but even the most devoted city dwellers need a break. Whether you crave beaches, mountain air, or small-town charm, these weekend getaways outside NYC remind you that peace and fresh air are never far away.

From the vineyards of the Finger Lakes to the calm shores of Shelter Island, each destination offers something unique—good food, open skies, and slower moments that reset your mind. Even a short trip can make you appreciate both worlds: the calm of nature and the pulse of the city waiting when you return.

Pack light, leave early, and let the road guide you somewhere quiet this weekend.

Frequently Asked Questions