10 Perfect Weekend Getaways Near New York City Travelhapyhob

Are you ready to leave New York City’s hustle behind? There are many exciting places within five hours to visit. You can find scenic views, charming towns, or outdoor fun. Places like Bear Mountain and Beacon, NY, are just a short drive away¹.

The Hudson Valley, Catskills, Long Island beaches, and Philadelphia are all great spots. You can hike, kayak, or dive in the Adirondacks². Or, check out the Vermont Brewers Festival in Burlington, Vermont². Start planning your next trip and see what’s near New York City.

Key Takeaways

Explore the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley and the Catskills
Visit charming towns like Beacon, NY, and Cold Spring, NY, and enjoy the local culture and food
Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and skiing in the Adirondacks and the Poconos
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Long Island and Cape May, NJ, and take time to unwind and recharge
Experience the vibrant city life of Philadelphia and Burlington, VT, and explore the local TRAVEL scene
Take a short TRAVEL to destinations like Bear Mountain, which is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from NYC¹
Plan a quick weekend getaway to Montauk, NY, which is approximately three hours from NYC³

1. Explore the Beauty of the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley is a great place for a weekend trip. It has natural beauty and lots of culture⁴. You’ll find cute towns like Beacon and Cold Spring, each with its own vibe and things to do.

The area is famous for its wine and beer. You can try lots of different kinds at wineries and breweries⁵.

For fun, check out the scenic towns, visit wineries and breweries, or go hiking and kayaking⁴. The Hudson Valley is also known for places like the Vanderbilt Mansion and the Dia:Beacon art museum⁵.

There are cool roads to drive in the Hudson Valley. The Taconic State Parkway is 105 miles long, from White Plains to Chatham⁴. The Nyack to Kingston route is 71 miles, along the Hudson River’s west side⁴. The Hudson Valley is perfect for a calm trip or an exciting adventure.

2. Discover the Charm of the Catskills

Planning a trip to the Catskills means fun outdoors and a lively arts scene. It’s perfect for those who love to explore. The Catskills Mountains are just a 2-hour drive from New York City⁶. They offer a great setting for a weekend full of nature.

Outdoor lovers will find lots of hiking trails here. The Willowemoc Wild Forest has 15 miles of trails⁶. The Overlook Mountain hike near Woodstock is 5 miles long⁶. In winter, it’s a snow sports paradise with ski resorts for families and beginners⁶.

After hiking or skiing, relax in towns like Woodstock or Phoenicia. Enjoy the local culture and food. The Catskills also have a rich arts and culture scene. This makes it a great spot for a cultural holiday. It’s perfect for a trip that combines outdoor fun and cultural experiences.

AutoCamp Catskills, a 10-acre property outside of Saugerties with 31-foot converted Airstreams⁶
Crossroads Brewing Company, with a brewpub in Athens and a taproom in Catskill⁶
Livingston Manor’s Catskill Brewery, which uses sustainable practices in brewing⁶

The Catskills offer adventure, culture, or a relaxing holiday. It’s a top choice for a trip, holiday, or sightseeing adventure.

Attraction	Description
AutoCamp Catskills	10-acre property with 31-foot converted Airstreams
Crossroads Brewing Company	Brewpub in Athens and taproom in Catskill
Livingston Manor’s Catskill Brewery	Sustainable brewing practices

3. Experience the Historic Coast of Long Island

Planning a trip to Long Island? You’ll find a mix of nature, history, and fun activities. Its beaches, lighthouses, and parks make it a great place for memories.

The Montauk Lighthouse is a highlight at the island’s east end⁷. It offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean. After visiting, relax on beaches like Jones Beach, with 6.5 miles of sand⁸.

Wine lovers will love Long Island’s North Fork. It has over 60 vineyards for tasting⁷. You can also see places like Sands Point Preserve, with two castles and 216 acres of beauty⁷. Long Island has something for everyone, from beaches to history and wine tours.

Visiting the Fire Island Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse on the island⁷
Exploring the Nassau County Museum of Art, which features a collection of American and European art⁸
Enjoying a day of outdoor recreation at one of the many state parks, such as Hempstead Lake State Park or Sunken Meadow State Park⁷

Long Island is perfect for your next adventure. It has history, beauty, and lots of activities. It’s a great place to explore and make memories.

4. Unwind in the Poconos Mountains

The Poconos Mountains are a great place for your next adventure. They have lots of outdoor activities and fun spots for families. It’s a top spot for tourists⁹.

When you go, you can stay in fancy cabins and cottages. Places like Hyatus Stays have comfy beds and private decks⁹.

Looking for a romantic trip? The Poconos have cozy bed and breakfasts and luxury resorts. You can also enjoy picnics and stargazing⁹.

In winter, it’s a snow sports paradise. You can ski, snowboard, and tube at places like Big Boulder Ski Area¹⁰.

Don’t miss out on events like the Pocono Wine and Food Fest. There’s also the Blue Mountain Resort Winter Fest and the Great Christmas Adventure. They have fun for everyone¹⁰¹¹.

The Poconos Mountains are perfect for a relaxing or exciting trip. They have beautiful lakes and lots of outdoor fun⁹.

The Poconos Mountains offer a wide range of activities. They’re a great place for a unique adventure and tourism⁹. Start planning your trip today and see what the Poconos have to offer¹¹?

5. Visit the Quaint Town of Burlington, Vermont

Planning a trip to Burlington, Vermont, is a great idea. It’s full of New England’s charm. You can enjoy outdoor fun, local culture, and tasty food.

One top spot is the Church Street Marketplace. It shows the city’s community spirit with shops and restaurants. You can also see beautiful Lake Champlain, perfect for swimming and fishing.

Burlington is great for those who love the outdoors. You can ski, sail, or bike all year. The town also has a lively music scene with local and national acts.

Visit the Shelburne Museum with over 100,000 items¹²
Take a 2-hour sunset cruise on Lake Champlain¹²
Explore the Burlington Bike Path, about 8 miles long¹²

Burlington is perfect for a trip or holiday. It has culture, outdoor fun, and local food. It’s a great choice for your next vacation¹³.

6. Enjoy Coastal Vibes in Cape May, New Jersey

Planning a trip to Cape May? You can drive from New York City in three hours or from Philadelphia in less than two¹⁴. Or, take a bus or ferry. Once there, walk the beaches and boardwalk. See the Victorian houses that line the streets.

Cape May has lots of Victorian houses, second only to San Francisco¹⁵. It’s a unique and charming place for your vacation.

Take a guided trolley tour to learn about the town’s history and architecture. Visit the Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1856, and stands 157.5 feet tall¹⁵. For fun outside, go to Cape May Point State Park or the Cape May County Park and Zoo, where you can see many animals¹⁵.

Remember, Cape May is busiest from May to September¹⁵. Hotel prices, like at the Virginia Hotel and Congress Hall, go up then¹⁴. But, there are many places to stay, like cottages and beach houses. Don’t miss the town’s wineries, restaurants, and shops. Enjoy the beaches and outdoor fun, making Cape May a great place to explore and make memories¹⁶.

Visit the Emlen Physick Estate, a Victorian mansion turned museum¹⁶
Go on a whale-watching excursion¹⁵
Relax on Sunset Beach or The Cove¹⁶
Shop at the Washington Street Mall¹⁶

Cape May is perfect for your next vacation. It has history, beautiful buildings, and amazing nature. You’ll love exploring and enjoying all it has to offer.

7. Embrace Nature in the Adirondack Region

The Adirondack Region is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. It offers a destination for adventure and tourism¹⁷. With vast wilderness areas, many lakes, and outdoor recreation, it’s perfect to connect with nature.

You can explore hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. This includes tackling some of the Adirondack High Peaks¹⁸.

The region’s lakes and rivers are great for boating, fishing, and paddling¹⁷. In winter, it becomes a snow sports destination. You can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing¹⁹.

To make the most of your trip, visit charming mountain towns like Lake Placid. It’s home of the 1980 Winter Olympics. You can explore Olympic sites and enjoy local dining and shopping.

Some popular activities in the Adirondack Region include:

Hiking and camping
Boating on the Great Lakes
Exploring quaint towns and villages

Remember to respect the environment. Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to preserve the natural beauty of the region¹⁷.

The Adirondack Park is a unique destination. It offers a mix of adventure, tourism, and natural beauty. It’s an ideal destination for your next trip¹⁸.

Activity	Location	Season
Hiking	Adirondack High Peaks	Summer/Fall
Boating	Great Lakes	Summer
Skiing	Lake Placid	Winter

8. Relish Cultural Experiences in Philadelphia

Philadelphia is full of history and culture. It’s perfect for your trip. You can see amazing museums and try delicious food. The city has 76 cultural spots, like art and history museums²⁰.

Try local food at one of the 5 top places to eat²⁰. You can get everything from cheesesteaks to fancy meals. Don’t miss the Reading Terminal Market for food from all over the world.

People love visiting Philadelphia. It’s been picked as a top spot by AFAR, Lonely Planet, and USA Today 10Best²¹. You can take brewery tours or cooking classes for a special experience²². Philadelphia is great for trips and holidays.

9. Stroll Through the Forests of Bear Mountain State Park

Are you thinking about your next TRAVEL trip? Bear Mountain State Park is a great choice. It has beautiful trails, picnic spots, and fun activities near New York City²³. It’s perfect for a quick nature break²⁴.

When you get to the park, you can see the Trailside Zoo or ride the carousel. You can also walk to the Popolopen Creek Suspension Footbridge²⁴. If you like swimming, the pool at Bear Mountain is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day. It’s open Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and then daily from June 21 until closing in September²⁵.

You can also rent paddle boats or rowboats at Hessian Lake. They cost $3.50 per person per hour with a $20 refundable deposit²⁵.

Exploring the park’s trails is a must. Try the Major Welch Trail, which goes up 1,064 feet over 1.25 miles. It has steep and rocky parts, but the views of the Hudson River are worth it²⁴. Make sure to visit Bear Mountain State Park on your next vacation. It’s full of nature and outdoor fun²³.

For a calm day, drive on Seven Lakes Drive or eat at the historic Bear Mountain Inn²³. In winter, you can ice skate or go cross-country skiing. Bear Mountain State Park is great for anyone who loves the outdoors²⁴. It’s the perfect spot for your next TRAVEL vacation²⁵.

10. Experience the Art Scene in Beacon, New York

Beacon, New York, is a charming place with art, adventure, and tourism. You’ll find a lively arts scene here. The Dia:Beacon museum is a key spot, with art from the 1960s to now²⁶. It’s a huge 300,000-square-foot space that art lovers must see²⁷.

Main Street is full of art galleries, studios, and shops. You can meet artists and enjoy gallery openings. Beacon is perfect for those who love art and adventure²⁸. Don’t miss the craft beer scene, with places like Hudson Valley Brewing and Industrial Arts²⁶.

Outdoor fans will love Beacon’s hiking trails, like Mount Beacon and Hudson Highlands State Park Reserve²⁷. After hiking, try dining at Beacon Bread Company or Meyer’s Olde Dutch²⁷. Beacon is a top spot for art, adventure, and new experiences in New York.

Attraction	Description
Dia:Beacon	Contemporary art museum
Main Street	Art galleries, studios, and shops
Mount Beacon	Hiking trail with scenic views

Beacon is great for art, adventure, and tourism. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to see the best of New York²⁶.

11. Relax in the Tranquility of the Berkshires

Planning a trip to the Berkshires means a holiday full of beauty and fun. You’ll find over 100 cultural spots²⁹ and more than 550 places for outdoor fun²⁹. It’s perfect for a sightseeing trip.

The Berkshires have 30 towns and 2 cities, each special in its own way³⁰. You can see famous art museums, galleries, and historic spots. Or, try outdoor fun like skiing and hiking in the snow³⁰.

Some top spots in the Berkshires include:

Outdoor concerts and festivals
Art institutions and galleries
World-class cultural attractions
Diverse outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking

The area is also known for its food, with many places serving farm-to-table dishes²⁹.

In short, the Berkshires are a unique and memorable place for a trip or holiday. With its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and many outdoor activities, it’s a top spot for sightseeing and relaxation.

Attraction	Description
Outdoor concerts	Enjoy live music in the beautiful outdoors
Art institutions	Explore the region’s renowned art museums and galleries
Outdoor activities	Engage in diverse outdoor activities, such as hiking, skiing, and kayaking

12. Adventure Awaits in Montauk, New York

As you near the end of your journey, don’t forget Montauk. It’s just³¹ 118 miles from New York City. This coastal town is full of adventure. You’ll find amazing beaches, great surfing, and lots of things to do.

Outdoor fans will love Montauk. It has six³¹ state parks, like Hither Hills State Park. This park is huge, covering³¹ 1,755 acres. It’s perfect for camping.

Nature lovers can explore trails at Shadmoor State Park. Or see where the Atlantic Ocean meets Block Island Sound at³¹ Montauk Point State Park.

For adventure, Montauk has lots to offer. Try surfing on the famous “cod ledge.” Or go on a³¹ fishing charter with Double D Charters. Don’t miss the fresh seafood at places like³¹ Duryea’s Lobster Deck.

Montauk also has great places to stay. Try the³¹ Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa. Or the family-friendly³¹ Ocean Resort Inn. Montauk has something for everyone.

Montauk has a rich history. It was first settled by the³² Montaukett tribe in 1614. It was also a military base during³¹ World War II. Artists, writers, and celebrities have always been drawn here.

In the early 1920s, Robert Moses created six state parks here. Montauk’s beaches, outdoor activities, and culture will leave you with unforgettable memories.

FAQ

What types of destinations are covered in the article?

The article talks about 10 great places near New York City. You can find scenic spots, charming towns, and coastal areas. Each place offers a unique experience.

What can visitors expect to find in the Hudson Valley region?

The Hudson Valley is full of natural beauty and culture. You’ll find lovely river towns, great wine and beer, outdoor fun, and art museums.

What makes the Catskill Mountains a popular weekend getaway?

The Catskill Mountains have lots of hiking trails and ski resorts. They also have arts and culture, with towns like Woodstock and Phoenicia.

What can visitors experience on the coast of Long Island?

Long Island’s coast has historic lighthouses and beaches. You can also explore the North Fork’s wine region. It’s a mix of history and relaxation.

What types of activities and attractions can be found in the Poconos Mountains?

The Poconos Mountains offer water sports, hiking, and family fun. They also have romantic spots and winter sports like skiing.

What makes Burlington, Vermont, an appealing weekend getaway?

Burlington has a charming New England feel. It has a farmer’s market, Lake Champlain views, and outdoor activities all year.

What are the highlights of visiting Cape May, New Jersey?

Cape May is famous for its Victorian buildings and beaches. It also has a classic boardwalk with fun attractions.

What can visitors expect to find in the Adirondack region?

The Adirondack region is great for nature lovers. It has hiking trails, lakes for boating and fishing, and towns like Lake Placid.

What are the top attractions and experiences in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia is rich in history and culture. You can see Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. It also has museums, food, and attractions like the Magic Gardens.

What can visitors enjoy at Bear Mountain State Park?

Bear Mountain State Park is a nature escape. It has trails, views from the Perkins Memorial Tower, and winter sports like ice skating.

What makes Beacon, New York, a destination for art lovers?

Beacon is an art haven. It has the Dia:Beacon museum, galleries, and outdoor adventures along the Hudson River.

What are the highlights of visiting the Berkshires region?

The Berkshires offer nature and culture. You can enjoy outdoor concerts, museums, hiking, and explore towns like Lenox and Stockbridge.

What can visitors experience in Montauk, New York?

Montauk is perfect for beach fun and adventure. It has great surfing, the Montauk Point Lighthouse, and outdoor activities and dining.

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