There are countless ways to spend a weekend in New York City, but sometimes you just need to escape the grind. The best weekend getaways will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to get back to the hustle and bustle after a few blissful days away.
Fortunately for New Yorkers, an escape from the Big Apple is never more than a few hours away. Whether you envision yourself as a total beach bum on a New Jersey island or want to walk in the footsteps of America's founding fathers in Boston, there are perfect weekend trips from NYC for every type of traveler.
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• Soak up the sun and indulge in local seafood on New Jersey's Long Beach Island.
• A car isn't necessary to visit Boston and immerse yourself in its historical sights.
• Burlington, Vermont, is an ideal location for a recreational weekend of sailing and craft beers.
• In the Adirondacks, embrace your adventurous side with cliff diving and whitewater rafting.
• If boarding a plane isn't an issue, Bermuda is a short flight that rewards you with pink-sand beaches.
Check out the best — and most convenient — weekend escapes below.
Long Beach Island, New Jersey: 2-Hour Drive
This barrier island just off the coast of southern New Jersey is a place where life comes to a standstill in the best way possible. Stretching for 18 stunning miles, Long Beach Island is the spot to be for city dwellers looking to get away, bask in the sun, or go on a little sightseeing adventure.
On the island, visitors can climb 217 steps to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse, also known as "Old Barney," to take in views of Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Or they can shop for coastal-inspired kitchenware and swimsuit coverups in Viking Village, where old fishing shacks have been lovingly converted into cafés and boutiques.
For those traveling in a pack, there's Pinky Shrimp's Seafood Company, where you and your entire crew can gather for the "fried family feast" of shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, and more. Another stellar dining option is Mud City Crab House, located just across the causeway in Manahawkin, where guests can order oysters on the half shell and enjoy a cold drink around the outdoor fire pits. Both restaurants are closed during winter.
As for where to lay your head at night, try booking a stay at Hotel LBI, a luxury hotel boasting 102 spacious rooms that can sleep up to six people, fine dining, and a rooftop terrace where you can watch the sunset with a glass of champagne in hand.
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Boston: 4-Hour Drive
If you're into history, look no further than a long weekend away in Boston. Spend time walking along the famed Freedom Trail to trace the city's history as it weaves through several of Boston's most charming neighborhoods. Stop into places like Old North Church, the Old State House — where the Boston Massacre took place — and the Paul Revere House to get a taste of what life here was like around the time of our nation's founding.
As a major city, Boston has no shortage of excellent hotel options, including the Omni Parker House, the oldest continuously operating hotel in the country. Its own history runs deep and counts both Malcolm X and Ho Chi Minh as ex-employees, and writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as former guests.
Book a night at theFour Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston for an extravagant stay. Centrally located in Back Bay, it's a prime spot to post up for a weekend, and its concierge team can curate experiences to help you make the most of your time. It also comes with all the amenities one would ever need, including three restaurants, a spa, and a swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the city.
For New Yorkers who don't drive or don't want to drive, Amtrak's Acela service takes you from Manhattan to Boston in four hours. (Pro tip: try to plan your trip around The Head Of The Charles Regatta, which draws thousands of spectators each year to watch elite rowers compete in the three-day race.)
Burlington, Vermont: 5.5-Hour Drive
With breweries dotting this small city, Burlington, Vermont, is a beer lover's paradise. From the annual Vermont Brewers Festival in July to a City Brew Tours behind-the-scenes look at how the top brews are made, Burlington is the perfect weekend escape for beer enthusiasts.
Beyond beer, Burlington is also home to a lively waterfront scene. Head to Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain for a stroll or cycle along the eight-mile Burlington Greenway. Hop off your bike for a quick visit to ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain, an interactive science museum dedicated to the health of the lake, or rent a boat from the Community Sailing Center to get on the water yourself.
For a luxurious getaway, stay at the Essex Resort & Spa. Nestled on 18 verdant acres just outside the city, this charming hotel has two swimming pools, a spa, and hands-on cooking classes taught by chefs from the resort’s farm-to-table restaurant.
The Adirondacks, New York: 4-to-5-Hour Drive
A weekend in the Adirondacks typically means hiking, kayaking, cliff diving, and for the more adventurous, white water rafting (best experienced in the spring, when the Hudson River is at its most intense). "We couldn't get enough of the canoes, going on morning and evening expeditions, keeping an eye out for possible moose, and uncovering art in nature as we paddled through an area with heart-shaped lily pads," Travel + Leisure writer Lauren Breedlove said of her time in the Adirondacks.
For a unique stay, reserve a room at The Point, a former Rockefeller family retreat overlooking Saranac Lake. Book early since the property has just 11 guest rooms. The rustic hotel's past shines through its restored brass and chrome fixtures and stone fireplaces. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, dinner at the hotel is a black-tie event, so make sure to pack your finest attire. Of course, if you can't get a room, there's always The Sagamore Resort, a luxurious Colonial Revival grande dame right on Lake George.
Bermuda: 2-Hour Flight
Plot twist: While Bermuda isn't exactly within driving distance, it's actually a shorter commute from NYC than many of the above destinations. A two-hour flight will land you in a subtropical paradise. In fact, Alison Fox reported for T+L that Bermuda is cheaper and faster from NYC than the Hamptons: "The affordable direct flights — including the brand-new JetBlue one from LGA — and the easy-to-use bus system to help travelers get around definitely make Bermuda a compelling alternative to domestic travel this summer."
On the main island, bask in the sun, swim in the crystalline sea, drink rum swizzles at The Swizzle Inn, make your own scent at the Lili Bermuda Perfumery, visit natural wonders like The Blue Hole Park, and stay at a five-star hotel. Rosewood Bermuda is set on a sprawling, private stretch of pink sand beach, the perfect spot to be marooned for a long weekend.
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Providence, Rhode Island: 3.5-Hour Drive
Providence, Rhode Island, exudes all the charm you'd expect from a great New England city. It's a place where you'll still find cobblestone streets and narrow river walks alongside modern dining establishments, world-class theater, and museums to rival those found in any of its larger counterparts.
While in Providence, head to Waterplace Park. Channel your inner Venetian by booking a ride along the city's rivers with La Gondola, or plan your trip around WaterFire, an art installation that lights up the rivers with almost 100 braziers on several weekends throughout the summer and fall.
After catching a show, head to Oberlin, a modern seafood spot consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the U.S. Then spend the night at ultra-cool, 52-key The Dean, where rooms are outfitted with a mix of custom and vintage furniture and original artwork adorning the walls. Or, for a bit more history, stay at Graduate Providence, previously known as the Providence Biltmore.
Mystic, Connecticut: 2.5-Hour Drive
As far as picture-perfect villages go, they don't get much better than Mystic, Connecticut. The adorable town is home to fewer than 5,000 permanent residents, making it a great place to go for a quaint getaway.
It may be small, but the town has no shortage of activities. If you're traveling as a family, there is the famous Mystic Aquarium, where you can spend an entire day roaming around and learning all about your favorite sea creatures. Want to see marine life in their natural habitat? Book a summer sail with Argia Mystic Cruises. The company's 81-foot schooner takes visitors around the seaport and the nearby islands. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics and beverages (including beer and wine, just no hard liquor).
Cap off a visit by staying at Ocean House, located in nearby Watch Hill. The famed inn is 25 minutes away and provides guests with even more New England charm, thanks to its meticulous restoration, stunning ocean views, and world-class amenities.
Philadelphia: 2-Hour Drive
The City of Brotherly Love beckons a day trip, weekend, or getaway for as long as you need. Arrive by car or take an 80-minute Amtrak ride for a more relaxing journey.
There is so much to see and do in this vibrant city, including a few classics like snapping a picture in front of The Liberty Bell, touring Independence Hall, and running up the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art — doing your best Stallone face the entire way.
The city has a high-end culinary scene — chef Michael Solomonov's Zahav and Laser Wolf, both serving Israeli cuisine, are must-visits. But you also need to order a classic Philly cheesesteak. To get a taste of as many different versions as you can, head to Reading Terminal Market — one of the country's oldest public markets — where you can also pick up some local artisan goods.
After you've filled your belly, you'll need a good rest. Stay at The Logan, Curio Collection by Hilton, where you'll get a plush room with local artwork and hotel amenities like a full-service spa, a steakhouse, and a rooftop terrace.
Washington, D.C.: 4-Hour Drive
The capital's endless activities fit all interests and travel palates. Visitors can lean into D.C.'s history by touring the famous monuments on the National Mall and delve into worlds of dinosaurs, art history, and the like in any of the 17 Smithsonian museums in the city. To experience the top attractions in a more unique way, you could always hop on a night tour by D.C. Trolley Tours and view them under the stars.
After you tick off the usual highlights, you should explore the places on Washingtonians' hot list: local art exhibits at Dupont Underground, jazz concerts in the National Gallery of Art sculpture garden, and the expansive farmers market in Columbia Heights, to name a few.
Once you're wiped out from sightseeing, check in to The St. Regis Washington, D.C. Located just two blocks from The White House, the hotel has hosted A-listers and dignitaries for nearly 100 years — and it's your turn to join them.
Newport, Rhode Island: 3-Hour Drive
Another popular Rhode Island weekend getaway, Newport has long been a haven for New Yorkers escaping the fast pace of the city in exchange for a slower way of life.
Here, you can explore the former homes of some truly rich and fabulous people on a self-guided tour of the iconic Newport Mansions. Follow that up with a stroll along the 3.5-mile Newport Cliff Walk, which provides some of the most breathtaking views along the entire Eastern Seaboard. You can get out on the water yourself by renting a sailboat and exploring Narragansett Bay.
Finally, live (briefly) like the Newport elite with a stay at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection, a hotel built in 1909 as the Newport County YMCA. With just 33 guest rooms, it's a place where you'll enjoy five-star service just as a Vanderbilt would.
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Nantucket, Massachusetts: 7-Hour Drive and Ferry Ride
If Nantucket, Massachusetts is on your "must-see" list for a short getaway, you might consider hopping on an 80-minute flight rather than spending seven hours driving and ferrying to the island. No matter how you arrive, you're guaranteed to have a relaxing time on this slice of pure Americana.
Nantucket is brimming with activities — renting a bike to pedal around town, taking in the Instagram-worthy shingled homes, or renting a boat and casting a line for a day of fishing — to help you slow down. The world's your oyster (as are the local oysters at noteworthy Sayle's Seafood) in Nantucket.
While Nantucket still has its small-town vibe, it's blossoming into a global destination. "There was a real energy in the town, and there was also a surprising sense of openness and accessibility," Akash Kapur reported for T+L. "While entry was, in the latter half of the last century, largely restricted to certain classes and races, Nantucket was now teeming with a diverse population."
End a serene day with a stay at one of Nantucket's best hotels, the White Elephant. With its stunning lawn along the waterfront, you can start and end your days with the soothing sounds of the crashing waves outside.
Portland, Maine: 5-Hour Drive
Portland, Maine, is a place where everyone can find a slice of vacation bliss. From above-average antique and vintage shops to a craft beer scene and ample outdoor space for roaming on a warm day, the city is suitable for group and solo trips alike.
Erinne Magee, a lifelong Mainer, former Portland resident, and T+L reporter, recommends visiting the Portland Observatory for 360-degree views of the city, taking a ferry to Peaks Island, and strolling the cobblestone streets ofOld Port on her list of things to do.
Seafood lovers shouldn't pass up the lobster dinner at Eventide. The raw bar and restaurant is well known for New England bites — including the classic lobster roll dressed up with browned butter.
After dinner, settle in for the night at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection, whose historic downtown building once housed the Portland Press Herald. The hotel honors its history with a nostalgic newspaper theme throughout. "If you have a thing for old typewriters or simply want to visit a building that celebrates art in all forms, stop into The Press Hotel for a beverage and board game," Magee said. "You can also explore the lower level museum featuring Maine artists or type your own special something on the typewriter in the lobby."
There's also the The Longfellow Hotel, the city's first independent boutique hotel opening in many years. It's located beside Tandem Coffee Roasters, which is another must-do.
Hudson Valley, New York: 2.5-Hour Drive
For a weekend trip that's just a stone's throw away, head north to the Hudson Valley for a fine dining and wine-filled retreat. The Culinary Institute of America calls the Hudson Valley home — while in the area, pay a visit (it's been called one of the most beautiful campuses in the country), and explore the greater culinary scene, from Michelin-rated restaurants to bakeries and cafés. Dinner by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges at The Inn at Pound Ridge is not to be missed.
For a drink, embark on the Dutchess Wine Trail, which leads to world-class vineyards and tasting rooms. When you're ready to retire for the night, head over to The Maker, a hotel that radiates class and culture.
Farmington, Pennsylvania: 6-Hour Drive
Farmington, Pennsylvania, is perhaps the quirkiest little gem on this list of weekend destinations. It's a place to get out in nature and dive deep into its fun-loving culture.
Visit nearby Laurel Caverns, which contains the state's largest cave. While the cave itself is fascinating, it's made even more so by the colorful lights installed inside. For design admirers, there are not one but two Frank Lloyd Wright homes nearby, including the famous Fallingwater home, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which you can visit on a group or personal tour.
Then, drive over to the ever-popular Nemacolin for chateau accommodations and experiences from cosmic bowling to acupuncture.
Cape May, New Jersey: 2.5-Hour Drive
There are family-friendly getaway spots, and then there's Cape May. Located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, this stunning oceanfront community offers peak Americana culture.
Rent a cruiser from Cape Island Bikes or take a trolley tour to see as much of the colorful town as possible. To see Cape May from the water, go on an afternoon cruise — where you'll hopefully spot a whale. Reserve a table at the Blue Pig Tavern for a dinner of farm-fresh surf and turf classics. Cap the night with live music at Exit Zero Filling Station under string lights.
Overnight at The Virginia Hotel & Cottages, a four-cottage and 24-room boutique hotel in a lovingly restored building constructed in 1879.
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Lake Placid, New York: 5-Hour Drive
Lake Placid is located further away, but it’s well worth the journey for a year-round outdoor destination. Visitors will be delighted to find a dazzling array of outdoor activities, from hiking throughHigh Falls Gorge, a 22-acre nature park boasting four waterfalls, to taking a dip in the 128-acre Mirror Lake.Famed for hosting the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics, Lake Placid offers powder hounds an adrenaline rush on the slopes ofWhiteface Mountain. There are ample runs thanks to its 25 miles of terrain for skiing and snowboarding.
Start at least one day with a hearty plate of eggs, a breakfast sandwich, or the decadent French toast fondue fromThe Breakfast Club, Etc. And for lunch or dinner, look no further thanSmoke Signals, a BBQ joint with finger-licking brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.
Check into theLake Placid Stagecoach Inn, a delightful boutique inn housed in a 1700s building with loads of historical charm.
The Poconos, Pennsylvania: 2-Hour Drive
The Pocono Mountains are another delightful outdoorsy destination. Come here for family fun like visitingCamelback Mountain, a massive adventure park that will leave kids and the young-at-heart smiling from ear to ear. There’s also theLehigh Gorge Scenic Railway, which zips through the stunning landscape, andmiles upon miles of hikingthrough old-growth forests.
The region covers about 2,400 square miles, so plan accordingly to visit a couple of not-to-miss restaurants. Wilkes-Barre'sCork Bar and Restaurant serves seafood with an Italian twist (think roasted red pepper gnocchi shrimp and shrimp and crab bolognese). Meanwhile Native is an upscale eatery with an emphasis on locally sourced produce.
Lay your head at any number of hotels. Among the best areCove Haven Resort, a kitschy, old-school, couples-only hotel famed for its heart-shaped tubs, andWoodloch Resort, a family-friendly resort.
Washington, Connecticut: 2-Hour Drive
Find rural bliss just two hours outside the city with a visit to Washington, Connecticut, where verdant landscapes and cultural attractions are abundant. Immerse yourself in the region at theInstitute For American Indian Studies, which traces the lives of Indigenous peoples back more than 10,000 years. Get your fill of fresh air at theHollister House Garden, a massive green space open in the spring and summer to showcase the local blooms. Try local wine atHopkins Vineyard, a heritage farm that produces award-winning vintages.
You'll find more local favorites at The 202 Tavern, which serves classic American food, andG.W. Tavern, which features comfort foods like French onion soup and chicken wings.
Book your stay at the elegantMayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection. You'll leave feeling renewed thanks to cozy guest rooms and a prolific wellness program ranging from traditional spa services to expert-led health coaching.
North Fork, New York: 2-Hour Drive
Just two hours from the city (traffic permitting), North Fork is a great spot for a beach day, a great glass of wine, and a little provincial fun. All of the beaches are good options, butWildwood State Park, which also includes a 600-acre forest, andOrient Beach State Park are exceptional.
According to Hannah Walhout, a former senior editor at T+L, "This part of Long Island was always a sleepy place — worlds away from the big-money scene of the nearby Hamptons. But these days, more and more city dwellers are making the trek, drawn by the peninsula’s rolling coastline, rambling vineyards, and hyper-local gastronomy."
After basking in the sun, head to the waterfrontKontokosta Winery to enjoy panoramic views of Long Island Sound with your vino. Don't leave without stopping by8 Hands Farmfor provisions to take home.The Halyardhas locally sourced produce and fresh-caught fish, whileBruce & Sonis beloved for its all-day brunch.
Stay atSound View Greenport, a design-forward hotel on five waterfront acres, orThe Lin Beach House, a chic guesthouse with clawfoot tubs in every guest room.