Are you looking for the best weekend getaways from NYC? Want a break from the city? If so – this list is for you!
If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways from NYC… this list if going to give you so much inspiration!
Whether you’re a born and bred New-Yorker or are looking for some incredible places to visit on a sneaky day trip from NYC on your next trip, it can be tricky to narrow down the best weekend getaways from NYC.
But we’ve got some good news, as there are just so many amazing places to visit just outside of New York, within an easy 2-3 hours drive! Hooray!
So finding the ideal weekend getaways from NYC is easy – just take a read of this list.
From magical Coney Island, to cute quirky towns, and even New Jersey’s very own Las Vegas… there are plenty of fantastic day trips that you can embark on, and plenty of places for weekend getaways from NYC.
The best places for weekend getaways from NYC…
So sit back, take a read, and start planning your next trip outside the big city, and your ideal weekend getaway from NYC.
Brighton Beach
If you’re looking for the perfect place for weekend getaways from NYC that will suit the entire family, then you’ll need to look no further than Brighton Beach.
This stunning beach has attracted day-trippers and sunbathers to its shores for years, and its popularity has genuinely never waned!
If you choose to head down to Brighton Beach for your weekend getaway from NYC, be sure to visit the 200-year-old Brighton Palace Pier. With rides and amusements that date back 200 years, it’s a historical marvel that must be seen to be believed.
With so many activities on offer, Brighton Beach is the perfect place to visit outside of New York for families that are looking to make lasting memories, and there’s so much to do there.
This is a beautiful choice for weekend getaways from NYC.
Read more about New York State: 10 beautiful castles in New York State!
Coney Island
One of our favorite places for weekend getaways from NYC is Coney Island.
Now, you may have already seen glimpses of this magical place in various pieces of pop culture, but if you’ve not been there for real, you should totally pay Coney Island a visit.
Whether it’s the famous amusement park, street performing, or the annual hot-dog eating competition that piques your interest, you’re sure to have a family trip to remember at bustling Coney Island.
Sure, it’s not the most romantic weekend getaways from NYC, but it’s a lot of fun, and it’ll unleash your inner child!
Read more about exploring the great outdoors: The best tulip fields in the USA
The Hamptons
Next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC, it’s The Hamptons. The Hamptons have long been associated with affluent and well-to-do folk.
So, if you want a taste of the good life, why not add it to your list of places to visit outside of New York this year?
With long stretches of beach and some amazing towns and villages to visit, you certainly won’t run out of things to do here during your weekend getaway from NYC.
Read more about New York State: 9 amazing all-inclusive resorts in New York State
What we love about The Hamptons is that you can truly make a trip here suit you, so it’s perfect for weekend getaways from NYC.
So, whether it’s some incredible retail therapy in East Hampton or a bougie trip to a winery that you’re after, you’ll find it all in The Hamptons.
When thinking of places to visit outside of New York… this is a classic choice.
Jones Beach Island
Jones Beach Island was named after Major Thomas Jones who came to Long Island in 1692, and it remains one of the most popular weekend getaways from NYC.
Though we’ve got a great post about things to do on Jones Beach Island already, we’ll add a couple of spoilers right here!
With its stunning white beaches and great attractions, it’s unsurprising that this area is a popular place for day trippers. If you choose to head to Jones Beach Island, we highly recommend checking out Tobay Beach.
Located just one mile from the large State Park, it’s a great option for places to visit outside of NYC, and it’s home to some of the best ocean views around!
I love this place for weekend getaways from NYC, and I think you will too!
Read more about New York State: Top 15 things to do in Lake George, NY
Woodstock
Next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC, it’s Woodstock. You’ll have probably heard of Woodstock because of it’s famous festivals back in the 70s…
And to be honest, if you want to experience a bit of those vibes and lifestyle, then this might be the place for you! Which is why it’s next on our list of weekend getaways from NYC.
If you’re looking for places to visit outside New York, then this ticks all the boxes. It’s only a short drive away (2 hours) and it’s a world away from the bustling city streets.
The vibe here is super laid back and really chilled. I’ve written plenty of ideas on things to do in Woodstock NY, so be sure to check that blog post out for more ideas!
Montauk
Next up on my list of the best weekend getaways from NYC… it’s Montauk. Montauk is one of those amazingly beautiful destinations near NYC, that is popular with honeymoons and romantic getaways.
So… If you’re looking for places to visit outside NYC that ticks those boxes… then Montauk is going to be the place for you. Montauk is a classic choice for weekend getaways from NYC.
Read more about New York State: 11 things to do in Harriman State Park, NY
Expect to greeted by beautiful beaches, amazing sea views, wonderful wildlife, and cute little cafes and restaurants too. Sounds pretty gorgeous right?
If you want to know more about things to do in Montauk – I’ve covered that in more detail on this site too! This places is just perfect for romantic weekend getaways from NYC.
Read more about New York State: Top 15 wineries in upstate NY
New Haven
Though you may not be overly familiar with New Haven, you’ve probably heard of its famous Ivy League University, Yale. So, it’s unsurprising it’s next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC.
This wonderful coastal city tends to attract the brightest and boldest around, and it’s a great day out or weekend away.
However, despite being famous for its educational facilities, New Haven is so much more than a University town.
With amazing art galleries, a fantastic museum, and even some Egyptian Revival Gateway, New Haven should certainly be on your list of places to visit outside of New York.
All aboard boffins, this is the ideal place for weekend getaways from NYC for you!
Read more about New York State: 9 Amazing waterparks in New York State
New Paltz
New Paltz is a gorgeous option when you’re looking for romantic weekend getaways from NYC. It’s a short drive (about 2 hours) but you can also get the train up there too – so it’s pretty easy to reach.
New Paltz is the country-life postcard. It’s beautiful fields and meadows, a little village with tons of charm, and it’s known for farm-to-table dining (great for foodies!).
There’s also the stunning Lake Mohonk to enjoy – and there’s so much fun to be had on the lake, especially during the summer. Check out our ultimate guide to New Paltz here.
You’ll love New Paltz for your weekend getaways from NYC.
Scranton
Scranton is next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC. Located in northeast Pennsylvania, this TV-famous city is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC.
In case you weren’t aware, Scranton is the place in which The Office was set – cool, right!?
To be honest – this suggestion is pretty much for the Office fans out there (check out this road trip itinerary for filming locations!).
You’ve watched it on Netflix a million times, and there’s so much fun and nostalgia making it a location for your weekend getaway from NYC!
If you aren’t into The Office though, there’s plenty more to explore here than looking for some great merch. One of the most amazing things that Scranton has to offer in terms of attractions is the Steamtown National Historic Site.
Home to century-old locomotives that are set on a former rail yard, this museum is an absolute must-visit if you’re in the area! This is a quirky choice for weekend getaways from NYC, but a fun one!
Read more about New York State: Top 10 places for apple picking in NY (with a useful map)
Philadelphia
Ok, how could I write a list of weekend getaways from NYC – and not include Philly? Now, Philadelphia is huge, so you may not be able to see much on a day trip from the city, but it’s a great option for a weekend away from NYC.
With some of the best historic attractions in the U.S. (notably the Liberty Bell!), it’s unsurprising that Philadelphia is one of the top weekend getaways from NYC.
Oh, and if you do pay Philly a visit, be sure to check out some of the area’s restaurants. Did someone say Philly Cheese Steak?
Baltimore
Next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC, it’s Baltimore.
Just further down the coast from Philly, is Baltimore. I love Baltimore, it’s a small city, but it’s scenic and have this lovely charm to it, and there are plenty of things to do there.
Fort McHenry, which is the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” can be found in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor – which means this placed is steeped in national history.
If that’s your thing! I love Baltimore for cute, romantic weekend getaways from NYC.
Sleepy Hollow
If you’re looking for weekend getaways from NYC around autumn and Halloween… then you really can’t go wrong with Sleepy Hollow.
You’ve probably heard of this place because of the movie (by the same name) but the good new is, it’s less than an hours drive from the city center and super easy to get to.
What makes Sleepy Hollow worth visiting? It’s a lovely change of pace to city life, and it’s got some unique stories tell.
There are also LOADS of things to do in Sleepy Hollow – so you could easily spend a few days there and pack your days full of activities.
Yes this is a slightly spooky weekend getaways from NYC… but I know some of your will love that it’s a bit different!
Port Jefferson Village
Next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC, it’s Port Jefferson Village.
Though Port Jefferson is a tiny village in Long Island, it’s certainly charming. With a population of only 7,750, you certainly won’t run into too many folks whilst on your travels here!
Despite being quite a sleepy town, there’s plenty to do here, which is why it’s next on our list of the best weekend getaways near NYC.
As Port Jefferson is a waterside town, we highly suggest checking out its beautiful waterfront views.
As the waterfront is packed with shops, coffee spots, and great restaurants, it’s the perfect place in which to relax and unwind if you’re finding yourself worn out from city life!
You’ll love this location for weekend getaways from NYC.
Rhinebeck
If you’re looking for a cute, quirky place to visit for your weekend getaways from NYC – then Rhinebeck would be a great choice. It’s easy to reach by train and by car – so it ticks those boxes!
In terms of weekend getaways from NYC – Rhinebeck is a pretty solid choice for a weekend away.
You have the nature and beautiful scenery of upstate New York, but you also have a bustling and very friendly town with lovely shops, cafes and restaurants to enjoy too. There are loads of things to do in Rhinebeck!
Atlantic City
Next up on my list of weekend getaways from NYC… it’s Atlantic City.
Atlantic City is essentially New Jersey’s very own Las Vegas. Acting as a dedicated resort city on the Atlantic coast, Atlantic City is absolutely one of the top places to visit outside of New York.
Packed with casinos, wide beaches, and an iconic Boardwalk, it’s one of our favorite picks for day trippers.
If you’re not huge on gambling though, don’t fret, for Atlantic City has plenty more in store for you!
With numerous spas, famous entertainers, and some great high-end shopping on offer, you certainly won’t leave the AC disappointed.
It’s a classic choice for weekend getaways from NYC – especially when a flight to Vegas seems too long and too far.
Read more about New York State: 20 beautiful waterfalls in NY (with a handy map!)
Beacon
Another pretty commuter town on my list of weekend getaways from NYC!
This is another great choice for places to visit outside NYC. This is a lovely little town, packed full of gorgeous little stores and cafes, and friendly locals.
There are lots of things to do in Beacon to choose from, but I personally love the galleries and the cultural centre, and the Bannerman’s Castle (which isn’t far from the town centre).
This is a great place for weekend getaways from NYC and you’ll love it all year round.
Read more about New York State: Top 10 places for apple picking in NY (with a useful map)
Check out a spa hotel near NYC
If you’re not bothered by location when looking for weekend getaways from NYC, but want a beautiful hotel and some much-needed relaxation – then a great option to finding places to stay outside NYC, is just to search for a great spa hotel.
There are so many amazing spa hotels near NYC, located in beautiful countryside and with stunning views over the surrounding wilderness. So if you’re hoping to just get some peace and quiet – maybe looking at one of those spa hotels is a good plan!
Spa breaks are the most classic choice for weekend getaways from NYC, and there are so many great ones to choose from!
Brooklyn
Next up on my list of weekend getaways from NYC… It’s Brooklyn.
OK… So Brooklyn isn’t exactly miles from Manhattan, but it’s very easy to get to and sometimes even somewhere super close can give you the escape you need from the crowded city.
Head to Brooklyn’s Botanical Gardens, or splurge on a spa hotel in Brooklyn. Or just take the train out to one of Brooklyn’s lovely suburbs and have a stroll around for the weekend. There’s so much to do there.
Read more about New York State: Ultimate guide to the best REAL haunted houses in New York
Croton Gorge Park
Next on my list of weekend getaways from NYC, it’s Croton Gorge Park.
If you’re just looking for a day trip for the weekend, then I really recommend Croton Gorge Park. It’s only a little north of the city, but it’ll give you that nature-fix city dwellers so often need.
There’s quite a few things to do in Croton Gorge Park, including fishing, hiking, walking, picnicing, sledding and skiing (in winter).
So it’s got it all really – and it’s pretty reliable all year round too. Oh and it’s really pretty! Definitely Instagram-worthy that’s for sure!
If you don’t mind driving a little further for you weekend getaways from NYC…
Remember also, if you don’t mind driving a little further afield in New York State when it comes to planning your weekend getaways from NYC… then some incredible places lie about 3-5 hours drive from the city, such as the Finger Lakes National Park.
Now, I won’t go into as much detail here, but we’ve written plenty of content about these destinations in Upstate New York for you to check out too!
If you love nature, hiking, swimming, kayaking, etc – then some of these beautiful destinations a little further away might be just what you’re looking for when choosing your weekend getaways from NYC…
- Ultimate Guide to the Finger Lakes
- Things to do near Syracuse
- Things to do in Watkins Glen
- Things to do in Jamestown
- Things to do in Tupper Lake
- Things to do in Utica
- Things to do in Saratoga Springs
They should give you even more inspiration for planning a getaway outside of NYC!
I hope this list of 20 weekend getaways from NYC has been helpful!
Hopefully this list has given you loads of ideas and inspiration for weekend getaways from NYC! There are so many to choose from, and NYC is a city that is surrounded by beautiful nature, towns, and spas… So you’re truly spoilt for choice.
Read more about New York State: Top 15 things to do in Lake George, NY
