23 Awesome Weekend Getaways From NYC To Get Fresh Air| CabinZero

You want a weekend getaway from NYC to escape the hustle and recharge for the week ahead? Are you short on time and want to save some cash? Well, you’re in luck. Cabin Zero has rounded up over 20 of the most charming spots near New York, complete with insider tips from travel pros only for you. No need to spend hours researching because we’ve got all the essentials covered, from cosy stays and fun activities to the best spots for a hearty, delicious meal. Read now! 1. Bear Mountain State Park, New York Bear Mountain State Park is a scenic, tranquil tourist attraction. Photo by jonbilous on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: 1 hour 15 minutes drive Plenty of ways to get around, but for Bear Mountain State Park and the spots below, hopping in a private car, bus, or train is your best bet to save both time and money. Bear Mountain State Park is a great weekend getaway from NYC for nature lovers and trekkers. You can begin by walking around Hessian Lake and visiting the Trailside Museums and Zoo to see wildlife and learn about local history. Major Welch Trail is a favourite for many trekkers and hikers, but it can be a bit challenging because it’s kinda rocky. However, once you reach Perkins Memorial Tower, you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of the Hudson Valley. Bring your camera for some great photos. You can stay at the Bear Mountain Inn or a campsite (if you’re an outdoor enthusiast). There aren't many restaurants nearby, so you can eat at Bear Mountain Inn or go to Richie's Little Place if you're craving Italian food. If you have kids, you can also come to The Carousel to see beautiful hand-carved animals. Pro tips: Bring a light jacket as the weather can change quickly, even if it’s warm when you leave. Some parking areas and picnic spots may require a small fee. Arrive early for better parking and fewer crowds on the trails. 2. Asbury Park, New Jersey Asbury Park makes a great escape from the hustle and bustle. Photo by Jin on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: less than 1-hour drive Asbury Park is a paradise for music, art, and beach lovers. This weekend getaway from NYC is home to The Stone Pony, where Bruce Springsteen got his first start, or Asbury Lanes, where you can listen to live music while having fun bowling. If you are a lover of fresh sea air as well as street art and visiting unique shops, come to Asbury Park Beach & Boardwalk or The Parlor Gallery. Then, make sure to refuel with seafood and a delicious cocktail while watching the sunset by the sea at Stella Marina. Finally, for a proper rest after a long day of exploring, book a room at The Asbury Hotel. Pro tips: There are metered spots near the boardwalk, but they fill up fast, so consider arriving early or using a parking app to find a place. Some beachside shops and food stalls may not accept cards. Visit during warmer months. 3. Jersey City, New Jersey Jersey City is the weekend getaway from NYC to satisfy your craving for nature and entertainment. Photo by Studio 30fps on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: less than 1-hour drive Head to Jersey City if you want to explore different cultures without travelling too far. Over 50% of the population speaks languages other than English, including Chinese, Korean, Hindi, Filipino, and more. This means you can enjoy authentic Korean bulgogi or attend the Puerto Rican Heritage Festival right in the United States. It is also known as a shopping paradise with the most shopping malls, and most, if not all, items here are VAT-free. Jersey is also close to Liberty State Park, where you can admire the Statue of Liberty or the Manhattan skyline without the hustle and bustle of the city. Make sure to try Razza, one of the 22 best pizza places in the United States in 2024, according to the New York Times. If you fancy a luxury hotel experience with views of the Manhattan skyline, stay at the Hyatt House Jersey City; otherwise, The Holland Hotel can be a decent choice. Pro tips: Bring Sling or daypack for walking/biking through neighbourhoods If you’re arriving late, the Grove St or Newport stops are the safest & most convenient. 4. Greenwich, Connecticut Greenwich is a brilliant blend of nature and culture. Photo by kirkikis on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: just under 1 hour via Metro-North train from Grand Central to Greenwich Station. Greenwich has always been known as a weekend getaway from NYC for the wealthy, with many famous people coming to relax. Its combination of water and lush greenery makes it suitable for nature lovers. You can enjoy the fresh air of the sea when walking along Greenwich Point Park (Tod's Point) or Greenwich Harbor. Or, you can immerse yourself in the greenery at Babcock Preserve if the sea isn’t your thing and you’re after a bit of hiking. If you’re fond of exploring science and history, the Bush-Holley House or the Bruce Museum are exactly what you need. For a complete and comfortable trip, you can stay at hotels like Delamar Greenwich Harbor or Stanton House Inn for convenient travelling, with two slightly opposite styles. Finally, don't forget to try the top-quality steak at Blackstones Steakhouse before returning to NYC. Pro tips: Avoid the Friday night rush if driving, as traffic on I-95 can be brutal Wear a smart-casual outfit since everything’s stylish, but relaxed If you want a detour, check out nearby Stamford for art shows or live music. 5. Norwalk, Connecticut What could be more perfect than spending your weekend getaway from NYC at a place by the sea? Photo by Laura Stubbs on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~ 1-hour drive Norwalk is for the walkers, as you will have to walk quite a bit to explore the sites. However, that also means you will be able to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along Calf Pasture Beach or breathtaking coastal views at Sheffield Island Lighthouse & Nature Trail. Besides the sea, when coming to Norwalk, make sure to visit Lockwood-Mathews Mansion or Mill Hill Historic Park to immerse yourself in well-preserved historical landmarks. Remember to bring a camera or fully charge your phone to be able to take the best photos here. Remember to come to Greer Southern Table for Southern comfort food or Sono Wood Fired for wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails. You’ll have these flavours carved in mind. If you prefer classic, book a room at Norwalk Inn, and if you love modernity, the Hilton Garden Inn Norwalk is a great choice. Pro tips: If you’re visiting in the summer, arrive early at Calf Pasture Beach to grab a good spot. The Sheffield Island Lighthouse ferry runs seasonally, so check the schedule in advance. SoNo (South Norwalk) is best explored in comfy shoes. Take your time wandering through its historic streets and trendy shops. Use a lightweight and water-resistant backpack to avoid water splashes. 6. New Haven, Connecticut Come to New Haven if you’re keen on unique, vintage architecture. Photo by f11photo on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~1-2-hour drive New Haven is home to Yale University, where George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and many other presidents and politicians studied. Over time, it has also become a popular destination and a popular weekend getaway from NYC. If you visit here, in addition to Yale University, come to its Art Gallery, where you can admire impressive works from all over the world. New Haven is not only famous for its academia ambience but also for its many unique ancient buildings and for, unexpectedly, its Pizza, especially the pizza at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana with the famous white clam pizza that you must try once. Finally, make sure to catch a show at the Shubert Theatre to enjoy top-notch performances before heading home. If you're planning on staying the night, the New Haven Hotel or Courtyard New Haven at Yale are great picks. Pro tips: Book your pizza spot early; lines at Pepe’s can be long. If you’re visiting Yale’s museums, check ahead for free admission days. For the best sunset views, head to East Rock Park just before dusk. 7. Cold Spring, New York Cold Spring is perfect for outdoor pursuits and a breath of fresh air. Photo by Nancy on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~1.5-hour-drive Another weekend getaway from NYC for nature lovers and outdoor activities is Cold Spring. We have Breakneck Ridge, a steep climb with a panoramic view of the majestic Hudson River or Bannerman Castle with an age of up to hundreds of years. Before admiring this ancient architecture with your own eyes, you will experience boating, kayaking or canoeing and climb 72 steps. If you are a fan of French cuisine, Le Bouchon is a great destination with a variety of attractive dishes, or if you crave seafood, make sure to visit Sandbar. For convenient travel to Cold Spring and back to NYC, you can stay at Cold Spring Hotel & Cafe right on Main Street. Pro tip: Parking in Cold Spring can fill up quickly, so if you drive, try to arrive early or take the Metro-North train straight to town. Visit early in the morning on weekends to avoid the crowds, especially in peak fall foliage season. 8. The Hamptons, New York The Hamptons is a quintessential weekend getaway from NYC if you’re fond of the seaside vibe. Photo by demerzel21 on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~1-2-hour drive The Hamptons is a long stretch of coastline, and each area has a different beach vibe. While in Montauk, the beach has a trendy ambience with bars and bustling nightlife to attract young people, in East Hampton, you get an upscale experience with luxurious restaurants and events. And if you just want a quiet trip to chill out, the beach in Sagaponack is the perfect choice. Make sure to visit Canal Café for delicious seafood while watching the sunset on the sea. Finally, after a long day, you can return to the most famous hotel in The Hamptons, Hilton Garden Inn Riverhead, to enjoy an evening and recharge for a new day. Before returning to NY, don't forget to enjoy the rest of your weekend at the Parrish Art Museum or Pollock-Krasner House to admire the beautiful works of art. Pro tip: Visit in late spring or early fall to avoid peak-season crowds while still enjoying the best of the area. 9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Be sure to visit Philadelphia if you’re keen on history or art. Photo by andreykr on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2-hour drive Not only is it home to iconic landmarks, but Philadelphia is also famous for its long-standing historical structures, such as Independence Hall or the Liberty Bell, which contain legendary stories about America. It is safe to say that Philadelphia is for those who prefer a slow experience. In addition to history, there are also the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Barnes Foundation and Magic Gardens, where you can slowly enjoy your time while admiring the top works of many eras. Finally, try a sandwich at Pat’s or Geno’s, a must-try dish in Philadelphia. If you love the modern vibe, book a room at the Holiday Inn Express, or if you prefer something cosier, go for the Philadelphia Hotel Bella Vista. Pro tip: Wear comfy shoes because Philly is best explored on foot. Pack only essentials in a lightweight backpack. Make sure to bring cash for those old-school food spots that might not take cards. 10. The Poconos, Pennsylvania Bushkill Falls, a stunning series of eight cascading waterfalls. Photo by Dan on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~ 2-hour drive If you need a weekend getaway from NYC with enticing outdoor activities, the Poconos is the place. Here, you can experience kayaking while immersing yourself in nature at Lake Wallenpaupack or hiking at Delaware Water Gap, a famous place with 100 miles of trails. Like in a little contact with water? The indoor water park at Kalahari Resort is for you. It has all the interesting games for young people, families and especially children. If you come here in the winter and are a fan of skiing and snowboarding, Shawnee Mountain or Camelback Resort are the places to go. If you’re too lazy to go far or want to eat at the hotel, then book a room at Camelback Resort or Minisink Hotel because they will provide you with delicious and nutritious meals. Pro tip: If you’re visiting in the fall, the foliage here is absolutely stunning - plan a scenic drive through the mountains for some of the best views. 11. Long Beach Island, New Jersey Long Beach Island’s sandy shores, chilled vibes, and stunning ocean views. Photo by Jin on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2-hour drive For a weekend getaway from NYC, you normally have two main options: the sea or the mountains. And Long Beach Island (LBI) is the former. It’s a suitable place to get the salty smell of the sea and the slightly fishy smell of seafood. But there isn’t just strolling along the sea. LBI has famous tourist attractions such as Barnegat Lighthouse or Harvey Cedars Sunset Park, where you can have a panoramic view of the ocean or a romantic sunset and sunrise with your lover. Imagine taking a photo here- top-notch. And then again, amusement parks are nearly inevitable at any coastal visit attraction like LBI. They are perfect places to cool off after a week. Go to Fantasy Island Amusement Park or Thundering Surf Waterpark, and let all the anger or fatigue of the week go. Once you've exhausted your stress, refuel with Legendary buffalo wings at The Chicken or the Egg, a must-try if you're visiting LBI. LBI can get busy in peak season, so book your stay at Surf City Hotel or The Engleside Inn early to be near all the action. Pro tip: Try arriving early in the morning to avoid long lines on Route 72. Parking can be tricky near the beach and main attractions, so consider renting a bike to explore the island. 12. Princeton, New Jersey Princeton is always a top pick for a weekend getaway from NYC due to its gorgeous architecture and scenery. Photo by Jin on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2 hour-drive Princeton is another place with an academic ambience similar to New Haven. It’s home to Princeton University, where Albert Einstein, Jeff Bezos, and Michelle Obama graduated and a must-see destination for Harry Potter and Gothic architecture fans. The scenery here is stunning during the foliage. Make sure to visit Princeton University Art Museum and Princeton Battlefield State Park to admire the beautiful works and step into history. If you want to buy some souvenirs, take a walk around Palmer Square for many local items that your friends and family may love. Want an even more real experience of Princeton University? Book a room at the Graduate Princeton starting at $263/night for the same space as its dorm. Pro tip: Don’t forget to catch a live performance at McCarter Theatre Center - one of the best regional theatres in the country. Try Agricola Eatery, a local favourite. 13. Cape May, New Jersey The best weekend getaway from NYC for those interested in Victorian architecture and pristine beaches. Photo by on jonbilous on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2.5-hour drive Cape May is quieter than Long Bean Island above or Washington below, but it has its own charm. It’s an ideal escape if you’re a fan of serene beaches and want a great beach getaway with your family. Cape May’s beaches are considered cleaner and less crowded than many others in New Jersey. It also has plenty of dolphin and whale-watching tours for those who prefer less physical activities. Plus, Cape May is known as the Victorian city on the coast, with over 600 colourful Victorian buildings, so you can just grab your camera and snap a great photo without even editing. And if you’re fascinated by the architecture while you’re here, you should definitely visit the Emlen Physick Estate. Make sure to dine at The Lobster House for its signature lobster and sip a glass of wine at Cape May Winery & Vineyard. For a classic stay, Congress Hall will offer you a good experience. Pro tip: Don’t leave without catching the sunset at Higbee Beach - it’s one of the best views in town. Catch a show at Cape May Stage if you love theatre. 14. Mystic, Connecticut Mystic is for those who crave a slower and picturesque weekend getaway from NYC. Photo by Ernest on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2.5-hour drive Mystic will give you a similar experience to Cape May as a tranquil coastal city, but here you have the opportunity to discover how ships were built and learn about the lives of sailors, of course, if you are a lover of history and ships. Make sure to take a picture with Charles W. Morgan or go to the Mystic Seaport Museum to explore more vessels. There will be no whale and dolphin watching tours here like in Cape May, but you and your family can still observe more marine animals at the Mystic Aquarium, one of the top aquariums in the United States. While here, try the lobster roll at The Shipwright’s Daughter or pizza at Mystic Pizza, and spend a relaxing sunset on the Mystic waterfront before returning to Delamar Mystic for a luxurious getaway. Pro tip: Catch the sunset at Mystic River Park for some seriously breathtaking views. 15. Atlantic City, New Jersey Are you up for a flutter at the casinos or just fancy chilling by the beach? Photo by miami2you on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~ 2-3-hour drive A polar opposite of Mystic, and you will notice this as soon as you set foot in Atlantic City. This weekend getaway from NYC is for those who want to try their luck in famous casinos like Borgata, Caesars, Hard Rock, Tropicana, etc., or see famous singers perform. And if you need to relax your muscles after a hard week, come to the Steel Pier for classic amusement park rides. Then, take a stroll along the Atlantic City Boardwalk and enjoy some duty-free shopping. If you know Gordon Ramsay, don’t forget to try his beef Wellington at Gordon Ramsay’s Pub & Grill. For some seafood, Dock’s Oyster House will be a good choice for you. Finally, enjoy the evening at Atlantic Palace Suites before exploring other locations the next morning. Pro tip: Parking can be pricey, so try the Jitney (Atlantic City’s mini-bus system) for a more affordable way to get around. 16. Hudson City, New York Hudson City is an attractive weekend getaway from NYC for its unique vintage shops and river views. Photo by demerzel21 on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~2-3-hour drive Hudson is popular for its many art galleries and unique cultural events. For music enthusiasts, make sure to head to Basilica Hudson or Hudson Hall to satisfy your artistic taste with festivals, exhibitions, or live music. If you’re interested in history and nature, the Olana State Historic Site, in the picture above, has exactly what you need. See how beautiful this place is? Taking a photo here will make people look at you with envy. However, it is best to walk and enjoy the scenery slowly so as not to exhaust yourself. You should rent bikes at hotels or homestays to explore the stunning trails along the scenery. For a hearty meal, head to Feast & Floret to try farm-to-table cuisine, a Hudson speciality. You can stay at the Nest Hudson or The Amelia Hudson for affordable prices and a comfortable stay. Pro tip: Parts of the river valley can be spotty on mobile—download your maps or playlists. Most shops close around 5–6 pm. Use that time to relax or grab a sunset drink. 17. Beacon City, New York Distance from New York City: ~2-3-hour drive Beacon is best known for Dia:Beacon, one of the world’s leading contemporary art museums. Speaking of which, you probably guess the biggest draw of Beacon is its art scene. There are many small art galleries along Main Street, so you’ll always be surrounded by exquisite art spaces. If you prefer to explore nature with interesting experiences, head to Bannerman Castle, go kayaking and take beautiful photos. However, if you don’t feel like going far, Long Dock Park is better for you; spending an afternoon walking around the river is enough to refuel. When you get hungry, head to The Roundhouse for a meal and admire the beautiful waterfall view, then return to The Dutchess Inn & Spa for a luxurious stay. Pro tip: Bring comfy shoes for walking, as Beacon is best explored on foot. Keep your belongings dry with a waterproof backpack. 18. Shelter Island, New York Distance from NYC: ~2-3-hour drive Unlike other places, Shelter Island is only accessible by ferry. The activities here are quite similar to Cape May or Mystic because you will spend most of your time by the sea. However, that doesn’t mean that this place is boring. The beaches here are clean with fine white sand and few people; extremely suitable for "an escape". A slow and laid-back weekend getaway from NYC. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, you must go to Mashomack Preserve. This is a nature reserve considered "the jewel of the coastal ecosystem on Long Island", with a beautiful trail system that allows you to walk or bike through the forests, meadows, marshes and shoreline. There are also many different rare and wild animals here. Make sure to enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at Vine Street Café and stay at The Chequit, a very popular hotel. Pro tip: Since Shelter Island is only accessible by ferry, plan your arrival times accordingly. If you plan to drive, take the car ferry from North Haven (South Fork) or Greenport (North Fork) - cost around $18-20 one way. 19. New Paltz, New York Come to New Palts if you fancy a bit of hiking and rock climbing. Photo by sphraner - stock.adobe.com Distance from New York City: ~2-3-hour drive If you are a hiker or trekker, this is your perfect weekend getaway from NYC. Mohonk Preserve, Minnewaska State Park and Shawangunk Ridge are all must-visit attractions when you need a little exercise and some fresh air away from the hustle and bustle. There are also art lovers’ attractions like the DM Weil Gallery or the Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art where you can see unique works of art. Drop by Robibero Family Vineyards for some wine and waterfall views, and enjoy a steaming bowl of pho at IPho. There are a few options if you want to stay overnight here, be it Mohonk Mountain House for a luxury experience and Inn at Kettleboro or camping right at Minnewaska Lodge for a cosier vibe. Pro tips: Pack light and only bring the essentials. Lugging around too much stuff will only spoil the experience. Parking in downtown New Paltz can be tricky on weekends. Try side streets or public lots near Wurts Avenue. 20. The Catskills, New York If you’re fed up with the skyscrapers and crowds, why not head to the Catskills? Photo by jonbilous - stock.adobe.com Distance from New York City: ~2-3-hour drive As beautiful as New Paltz is, the Catskills also has its own charm. If you choose to visit the Catskills for your weekend getaway from NYC, come in the fall for some of the best fall foliage in the United States or in the winter to ski in the stunning snowy landscape. You can also come here for hiking and trekking at Kaaterskill Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in New York, or Overlook Mountain, which leads to the ruins of an old hotel. Both are great places for unique photos, so remember to charge your camera or phone. Make sure to stop by Gracie’s Luncheonette and enjoy their homemade doughnuts; they’re delicious. For a hearty meal, head to A&G Texas Weiners for their legendary Texas-style hot dogs or Pomodoro’s Italian Eatery if you’re craving some Italian dishes. Pro tip: Pack comfy hiking shoes and use a lightweight, water-resistant daypack. 21. The Berkshires, Massachusetts Bash Bish Falls’ stunning scenery during foliage. Photo by Yggdrasill on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~3-hour-drive The Berkshires are a perfect blend of nature and culture where you can participate in many different activities. You can visit the Berkshire Botanical Garden for a gentle sightseeing experience, while Bash Bish Falls will suit those who like easy walks through the forest with beautiful waterfalls. And for those hard-core hikers, Mount Greylock will satisfy you. Indoor activities here are also quite diverse. The Berkshires are home to many famous art venues, such as the Norman Rockwell Museum or Mass MoCA, where you can admire beautiful works. If you’re a fan of music, theater, or dance, check out Tanglewood, the Williamstown Theater Festival, and Jacob’s Pillow for some great performances by professional artists. The focus here is on farm-to-table dining. Head to The Prairie Whale, Mezze Cafe + Bar, or The Old Inn on the Green for a variety of popular dishes. The Red Lion Inn and Porches at MASS MoCA are two popular inns to conveniently explore the area. Both have cosy vibes and start at around $148/night. Pro tip: If you don’t like driving mountain roads at night, arrive before sunset. Fall foliage and summer concerts = packed. Try spring or mid-week visits. 22. Saratoga Springs, New York Pure bliss for those who fancy a bit of horse racing for their weekend getaway from NYC. Photo by James Casil on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~3-4-hour drive Saratoga Springs is home to horse racing with the legendary Saratoga Race Course, one of the oldest and most prestigious racetracks in the United States. Besides horse racing, you can also learn about its history and see how the horses are taken care of. If the horse racing is tiring you out, come to the hot springs at Roosevelt Baths & Spa. It’s ultimate to relieve mental stress and relax your muscles in luxurious surroundings. And if you want to hype things up a bit, Saratoga Springs has regular music festivals and street performers to keep it lively. You can head to 15 Church for a meal, then enjoy some Saratoga Sunrise Cocktails or craft beers from Druthers Brewing Company. You can stay at The Adelphi Hotel for a luxurious experience or Saratoga Arms Hotel for historic charm. Pro tips: Mornings at the track are magical; head to Saratoga Race Course early to watch the horses train. Bring a swimsuit if you plan to visit the Roosevelt Baths & Spa; the mineral waters are a must-try. 23. Washington, D.C. Washington is just the spot for any history and museum enthusiasts. Photo by steheap on Adobe Stock Distance from New York City: ~ 4-5-hour drive We save the best for last. Washington is often dubbed one of the most popular cities to visit in the States, and it’s the go-to spot for many tourists from abroad. Washington is the capital of important political centres of the United States, including the White House and Capitol Hill. It has always been an attractive destination for those who love politics and history, and if you are one of them, this is a must-visit weekend getaway from NYC. Here, you’ll be able to go back in history and learn about important timelines of the United States at the National Museum of American History. You can also immerse in the solemn ambience and commemorate the deceased at the Lincoln Memorial or the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. At Washington, you’ll find the past interwoven harmoniously with the present. The example shown is Georgetown. Every street here feels like it’s from three centuries ago, but the LED signs and long lines of tourists will help remind you of the 21st-century US. There are plenty of lodging options and restaurants, from high-end to budget-friendly, that you can easily browse online. But, make sure to visit Rose’s Luxury’s for their legendary lychee salad with pork sausage. Pro tip: Book your favourite restaurants in advance. Come here in spring to see the beautiful cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin. Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Plan Your Weekend Right Away Cabin Zero is certain that with the handy tips we’ve shared in this article, you’ll easily find just the right destination for your weekend getaway from NYC. And remember, a quick escape to unwind after a hectic week doesn’t call for loads of luggage, so try opting for a CabinZero compact backpack. And do stay tuned for our upcoming articles for more brilliant travel inspiration. Ky Duyen