You love New York City. The hustle and bustle, the crowds of people, and being surrounded by more food and culture than you can shake a stick at makes you feel alive.
But sometimes, you just need a little break from it all. Some time to relax and unwind, and clear your head so you can return to your daily life ready to go.
While a long-distance vacation may not be in the cards right now, there are plenty of weekend getaway options to give you a quick break. Here are 5 great places to go under 3 hours from New York City for a weekend away:
Montauk, NY
You don’t have to go far from New York City to enjoy the beach. If you’re looking for a beach vacation without leaving Long Island, take a trip out to Montauk. It’s just a 2 ½ hour drive (or a slightly longer but more relaxing train ride!) from Manhattan, but you’ll feel as if you’re in another state entirely.
When the weather’s nice, stroll along the village’s beaches and enjoy its historic lighthouses, perfect for taking some great shots for your Instagram account. Surf, swim, or kayak in the Atlantic, perfect for when you’re feeling sporty.
If you’re not feeling up to the water, the cliffs and trails of Montauk’s parks offer tons of hiking and scenic views. Horse-lovers also can enjoy a nice calm ride along the sand!
Because the outdoor weather can’t last all year long, Montauk is home to some great museums for the history-lovers. The Second House Museum displays local historical artifacts all inside a structure originally built in 1746. From Native American artifacts to relics of the area’s colonial residents, there’s much to enjoy in this hidden gem.
The Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum features documentaries, photographs, and artifacts of lighthouse history, all inside New York state’s oldest lighthouse. The museum is open even if the beach itself is closed.
Need somewhere to stay in Montauk? This beach house is a short walk to Ditch Plains Beach. Spend some time enjoying the Jacuzzi, or grill up a delicious steak in the outdoor kitchen and barbecue.
Catskill Mountains
For fans of skiing and other mountain-oriented sports, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Catskills. Even if you aren’t so sporty, there are a ton of great things to do and enjoy within the Catskills themselves. You’ll forget you are anywhere near New York City.
In warm weather, visit Kaaterskill Falls (you’ll need to hike!) where you can view the highest cascading waterfall in New York. Just remember to wear sturdy shoes, bring water and snacks, and pick up your trash. There’s a $250 fine for littering!
If you want beautiful views with even less effort, the Hunter Mountain Scenic Skyride is for you. This state-of-the-art 6-passenger chairlift takes you on an 11-minute ride to the top of Hunter Mountain. There, you can enjoy views of the North Catskills, the Berkshires, and Vermont’s Green Mountains. And don’t forget to look for the hand-hewn Rip van Winkle statue at the summit.
Families visiting in summer can enjoy Zoom Flume Water Park.
It’s got something for everyone to enjoy, including tube rides, a lazy river, a wave pool, the Typhoon Twister, and The Black Vortex, where you twists and turn in total darkness.
Fire Island, NY
Another destination for anyone wanting outdoor adventures and gorgeous views, Fire Island is right off the coast of Long Island.
Enjoy a wide variety of beaches, lighthouses, and parks. The Moku Loa Paddle Tribe is a stand-up paddle boat rental company so you can test the waters off the shore. And, if you’re a total novice to the sport, Moku Loa does offer lessons to get you on your feet.
For the thrill-seekers, check out Fire Island Parasail. They offer single, double, and triple parasail rides take you over the waters and cliffs of the area.
Want to take in some live theater? The CM Performing Arts Center hosts regular productions put on by local actors from all walks of life. For a more intimate live experience, try the Boulton Center for the Performing Arts.
Want to stay on Fire Island? The Atlantique Ocean Front sleeps 8 and offers incredible beach views. Enjoy easy access to the beach or take a water taxi ride out into the water.
Beacon, NY
This small town offers all sorts of culture and outdoor adventure, and it’s an under 2-hour drive from the city.
Start off by experiencing Dia:Beacon, an art museum located in an old warehouse. It’s packed with unique, modern art pieces you can’t find anywhere else. This out-of-the-way museum is even home to Andy Warhol’s multi-part “Shadows” that measures approximately 350 linear feet.
If you decide to take the train up from New York City, take advantage of the “One-Day Getaway” package. Get reduced entry to Dia:Beacon with the purchase of a round-trip ticket on the Metro-North train.
There’s ample opportunity for hiking, with Breakneck Ridge, the Hudson Highlands, and Beacon Mountain being located in the area.
This small town offers all sorts of culture and outdoor adventure, and it’s an under 2-hour drive from the city.
Start off by experiencing Dia:Beacon, an art museum located in an old warehouse. It’s packed with unique, modern art pieces you can’t find anywhere else. This out-of-the-way museum is even home to Andy Warhol’s multi-part “Shadows” that measures approximately 350 linear feet.
If you decide to take the train up from New York City, take advantage of the “One-Day Getaway” package. Get reduced entry to Dia:Beacon with the purchase of a round-trip ticket on the Metro-North train.
There’s ample opportunity for hiking, with Breakneck Ridge, the Hudson Highlands, and Beacon Mountain being located in the area.
Poughkeepsie, NY
Take a weekend to relax a little farther inland in New York by visiting Poughkeepsie. You won’t be far from New York City but it will feels worlds away.
For fans of presidential history, a visit to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt House offers a glimpse into the life of the 32nd President of the United States. The house looks largely the way it did in 1945 at the time of FDR’s death, and the President’s and First Lady’s graves are located in the Rose Garden.
If you fancy a little art retreat, check out Art Centro. Their full art studio features a ceramics studio, private artists’ studios, and meeting space. They offer parties and group classes, so swing in to get your creative juices flowing!
The kids in your group (or even adults!) will enjoy Sprout Creek Farm. This working farm offers educational programs, a market featuring local goods, and a creamery. Connect with the land in a whole new way!
Need a place to stay near Poughkeepsie? The Hudson Valley Cabin in Stanfordville is just an 18-mile drive from Poughkeepsie and offers the seclusion you want with access to all the amenities.
Quality Rental Properties in New York
Whether you’re heading out of New York City for a romantic weekend away or meeting up with family for a big reunion, New York Rental by Owner has the high-quality rental property you need. From small cabins in the woods to spacious beach villas, we’ve got something for everyone!
And if you’re not looking to get away just yet but have a property you’d like to earn some extra cash on, we’re always looking for the best rental properties throughout the state. Contact us for more information!
