While there are plenty of things to do in NYC, there are quite a few things just outside the city that make for a great weekend getaway. If you live in the Big Apple and are looking for a change that will refresh your spirits, here are five places close to NYC that make for a great weekend getaway.
Since the 1950s, this has been one of the most active summer getaway locations. About 90 minutes from NYC, you can stay at the famous Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel for just over $100 a night while taking in all the sights. The community offers many events and gatherings geared towards the gay community and it has been a place of recreation, fun, and entertainment for many years.
The name may sound familiar as it is the location of Beacon Mountain which played an important role during the American Revolutionary War. However, the city of Beacon is well-known today for its indie spirit which has attracted many people to this growing community. Located about 90 minutes from NYC along the banks of the Hudson River, you can visit many diverse attractions from the galleries of art exhibitions to seeing the natural beauty of the region.
Located about 75 minutes from NYC, Bear Mountain offers spectacular scenery that will refresh your mind, body, and spirit in getting away from the crowded city. You’ll find Bear Mountain on the west bank of the Hudson River where you can enjoy the many hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, fishing and water activities, and even visit the local zoo.
If you want to stay in the lap of luxury, the Bear Mountain Inn which is over a century old provides excellent guest rooms, a restaurant, and spa for ideal relaxation.
A little further away at nearly two hours average driving from NYC, this small, but vibrant indie community offers a laid-back approach that you will drink in from the moment you arrive. You can visit the many small, but interesting attractions and even take a bike ride down the Delaware Canal which will soothe the soul. New Hope is dedicated to preserving the environment which is why you’ll find hundreds of natural plant species dotting the meadows and woodlands of the surrounding area.
Located just under two hours from NYC, New Paltz is a remarkable setting that features large, verdant trees, riverside bluffs, and many homes and buildings that are older than the United States. Founded by 17th century Huguenots who settled in this part of the country, you can tour the homes and buildings that date back to the latter days of the 1600s. You can also stay at the famous Mohonk Mountain House along Lake Mohonk which was the inspiration for Stephen King’s classic novel, “The Shining”.
While there are many things to do in NYC, you can find quite a few things outside the city that never sleeps for a weekend getaway that will stay in your memories.