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15 Incredible Weekend Trips from NYC

New York City is a great place to live because there’s always something to do, but there will be times you’ll want to escape the city. Luckily with 52 weekends every year, it gives you plenty of opportunities to get out and explore especially since we’re so close to great destinations in the Northeast. Whether that means a neighboring city or spending time outdoors, we’ve put together a list of the best weekend trips from NYC.

A big thank you to Zipcar for sponsoring this post. All opinions are always our own. This post contains affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: May 19, 2020

Like most people in the city, we don’t have a car. That’s no issue in the city, but when we want to leave, we’re much more limited. Yes, there are public transportation options like trains or buses, but even then you can only go to certain places. We also much prefer road tripping! It gives us a chance to travel at our own pace and make impromptu stops.

We recently signed up for Zipcar to help us explore more of the Northeast. Not only can we use it within NYC when we need to run errands or visit areas of the city that take forever to get to via subway, but we can also decide to go on a weekend or day trip on a whim. It was super easy to sign up for and we received our Zipcard in the mail a few days later. Once we had that, we were able to book to select our car, then unlock it with the card itself. Sign up with this link to get $25 driving credit.

We headed up to Boston to visit one of Esther’s friends, explore more of the city, and eat delicious Italian food and didn’t start planning the trip until the day before we left.

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1601 Market St #200, Philadelphia, PA 19103, map

Distance: 101 mi / 1 hr 45 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Independence Hall, Museum Mile, Reading Terminal Market
What to Eat: Geno’s vs Pat’sFederal DonutsZahav
Where to Stay: The LoganMorris House HotelHotel Sofitel

Philly has a ton to do! You can travel in time to some of America’s most significant moments by visiting Federal Hall, search for the best Philly cheesesteak (I’m on team cheese whiz), or run up the iconic Rocky steps and explore the museums around it.

Though you can get there via Amtrak or Bus, then it’s difficult to get around the city. There were areas we didn’t get to explore because they were too far from where we were, so we need to go back with a car.

Need some ideas for easy and short getaways from NYC? Save this pin and click through to get out of the city and visit amazing spots in the northeast. Whether you're planning romantic weekend getaways from nyc for couples, road tripping with a bunch of friends, or just looking for last minute getaways from nyc, everyone needs to escape the big apple from time to time. // Local Adventurer #philadelphia #pennsylvania #roadtrip #visittheusaPin

2. The Catskills, NY

42.00929,-74.3908664, map

Distance: 135 mi / 2 hr 40 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Hunter Mountain, Kaaterskill Falls, Pratt Rock
What to Eat: Brushland Eating HousePhoenicia DinerThe Alternative Baker
Where to Stay: The Fairlawn InnThe 1850 House InnThe Roxbury

The Catskills is a beautiful mix of outdoors and comfort. You can be as active as you want, or pamper yourself in quiet recluse. You’ll find charming B&Bs or hipster spots that feel like they came straight from Brooklyn. Explore the charming towns, beautiful forests, and spectacular swimming holes. The area is massive so don’t try to do everything in one weekend. Focus on one region while you’re there.

Kaaterskill Falls Winter + Best Places to Visit Upstate NY // Local Adventurer #usa #travel #newyork #catskillsPin

3. Hershey, PA

150 W Chocolate Ave, Hershey, PA 17033, map

Distance: 162 mi / 2 hr 45 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Hershey Park, Hershey Gardens, Zoo America
What to Eat: Hershey PantryThe Chocolate Avenue GrillDuck Donuts
Where to Stay: Courtyard HotelWhite Rose MotelBluegreen Vacations Suites

Hershey is a great spot for families. There are a ton of kid-friendly activities that parents can enjoy too. Plus, if you’re a chocolate lover, the town embraces the Hershey name.

Pro Tip: If you really love chocolate, visit in February when they celebrate chocolate all month.

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photo: Amy McGovern

4. Lake George, NY

1 Beach Rd, Lake George, NY 12845, map

Distance: 211 mi / 3 hr 25 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Village of Lake George, Steel Pier, Fort William Henry
What to Eat: Bolton Landing Brewing CompanyThe Saltwater CowboyPizza Jerks
Where to Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Lake GeorgeColonel Williams Resort & SuitesBlue Moon Motel

Lake George is nestled in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains and is one of the best lake getaways. This 32 mountain lake is set amongst beautiful mountain scenery. Stop by local breweries, wineries, or hop in the water for one of its meany recreational activities.

Pro Tip: Love festivals? The area has multiple festivals throughout the year. Check out Adirondack Wine and Food Festival, Rock the Dock, and The Elvis Festival.

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5. Boston, MA

2 Copley Pl, Boston, MA 02116, map

Distance: 215 mi / 3 hr 35 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Freedom Trail, Museum of Science Boston, Faneuil Hall
What to Eat: PomodoroIsland Creek Oyster BarGiacomo’s Ristorante
Where to Stay: The Godfrey HotelSeaport Boston HotelThe Verb Hotel

See American History come to life in Boston, whether you’re following the Freedom Trail or taking part in the Boston Tea Party. If history isn’t your thing, there are tons of museums and restaurants to explore.

Pro Tip: When driving through the city, the highways run underground and you often lose GPS. Screen grab directions and pay attention to what exit you’re looking for. If you miss it or get off at the wrong one, no worries, it’ll redirect you once you’re back above ground. I’ll admit that I freaked out a bit at first, but realized it was easy to get back onto the highway when I needed.

Great Weekend Getaways from NYCPin

38.93954,-77.0896008, map

Distance: 226 mi / 3 hr 50 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: National Museum of Natural History, National Zoo, Spy Museum
What to Eat: ClydesBad SaintPineapple & Pearls
Where to Stay: The Hamilton HotelThe Melrose Georgetown HotelPod DC Hotel

The capital is another great destination with or without kids. A lot of the attractions and museums in the city are free, and the Smithsonian does an amazing job at curating all its pieces. If you’re looking for restaurants and bars, head over to the Georgetown area.

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7. Stone Harbor, NJ

39.0417366,-74.7859875, map

Distance: 150 mi / 2 hr 30 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: The Wetlands Institute, Seven Mile Beach, Stone Harbor Point
What to Eat: Seven Mile Pies, The Watering HullRistorante Luciano
Where to Stay: ICONA Diamond BeachLark MotelThe Reed at Shelter Haven

This beautiful beach in Jersey is nothing like the Jersey Shore stereotype. It’s a small beach town that takes you back to a simpler time. Grab a scoop of ice cream, play a round of putt-putt, or lounge at the beach. It’s also a popular spot for surfing and boogie boarding.

8. Lancaster County, PA

40.0180756,-76.5778761, map

Distance: 150 mi / 2hr 35 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Lititz Springs Park, Dutch Wonderland, Middle Creek Wildlife Management Area
What to Eat: Rachel’s Cafe and CreperieOn OrangeJohn J Jeffries
Where to Stay: Country Inn & SuitesEJ Bowman House B&BFulton Steamboat Inn

Lancaster County is a great countryside getaway especially if you need a break from the fast pace of life in NYC. Stop by Amish-owned businesses along the way, hop on a buggy tour, or visit a traditional amusement park.

Looking for the best overnight trips from NYC? Check out and save this pin to get the ultimate list. Whether you're looking for the best romantic getaways from nyc, the best spots for outdoor adventures, or places for family weekend getaways from nyc, this list has something for everyone. It always suggest the best places to stay (photo: Nicholas Tonelli) // Local Adventurer #visittheusa #roadtrip #usaPin

9. The Berkshires, MA

42.1667991,-73.1583548, map

Distance: 140 mi / 2 hr 50 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Norman Rockwell Museum, Mass MoCA, Ashuwillticook Rail Trail
What to Eat: NudelBravaAlta Restaurant & Wine Bar
Where to Stay: Willows MotelChambery InnMaple Terrace Motel

The Berkshires is where you want to head if you’re looking for some laid-back luxury. It has beautiful scenery, plenty to do outdoors, and a great art, theater, and music scene. It’s the perfect blend of culture and scenery.

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photo: finnsland

10. Providence, RI

1 Sabin St, Providence, RI 02903, map

Distance: 180 mi / 3 hr 05 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss:  Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Brown University
What to Eat: Los Andes RestaurantPasticheKitchen
Where to Stay: Christopher Dodge HouseDowncity InnDye House Lofts

If you’re into history, Providence has beautiful Colonial homes along Benefit Street. It has the charm and feel of Boston, but much less crowded. You can explore the Brown University or catch one of the Broadway shows that come through.

Fleur-de-Lys Studios in Providence Rhode Island by Craig Fildes + Best Vacation Getaways from NYCPin

84 Exchange St, Portland, ME 04101, map

Distance: 315 mi / 5 hr 15 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Portland Head Light, Casco Bay, Portland Museum of Art
What to Eat: Eventide Oyster CompanyThe Holy DonutStreet & Co.
Where to Stay: The FrancisPomegranate InnHilton Garden Inn Portland

When people ask us where we lived last year, we always forget we need to say Portland, OR since everyone things of Portland, ME in the northeast. It’s easy to see why! It’s home to one of the most famous lighthouses on the East Coast and the coastal town is just all around a relaxing place to be.

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12. Hunter, NY

42.2122422,-74.2341885, map

Distance: 124 mi / 2 hr 30 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Hunter Mountain, Bear Creek Landing, Hudson-Chatam Winery Tasting Room
What to Eat: Roseberry’s Restaurant & BarProspectJagerberg Beer Hall
Where to Stay: The Fairlawn InnThe Sedgwick House B&BHotel Vienna

Hunter is known as the best mountain getaway from NYC. Whether you enjoy camping and hiking in the summer or prefer hitting the slopes in the winter, it’s a popular spot to visit. They also have some amazing zip-line tours and canopy courses.

Want to plan some weekend trips from NYC? You need to save this pin and click through to check out the ultimate list of weekend getaways near NYC. No matter what season you're going, it includes winter weekend getaways from nyc, favorite summertime spots for the locals, and even the best fall getaways from nyc (Photo of Hunter Mtn in New York by PilotGirl) // Local Adventurer #hunter #iloveny #newyork #ny #visittheusaPin

photo: PilotGirl

13. Montauk, NY

41.0425982,-72.0261241, map

Distance: 119 mi / 2 hr 45 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Montauk Point Lighthouse, Hither Hills State Park, Gosman’s Dock
What to Eat: South EdisonMontauk Bake Shoppe,  St Peter’s Catch
Where to Stay: Haven MontaukMontauk ManorSunrise Guest House

Montauk has some of the best surfing in the area. If surfing isn’t you’re thing, you can still enjoy the beautiful white-sand beaches, bike along the shore, or go on a hike. 

Need a break from the city? Check out and save this pin to see the best weekend trips from NYC. Whether you're looking for the best romantic getaways from nyc, the best spots for outdoor adventures, or places for family weekend getaways in New York state and beyond, this list has something for everyone. It always suggest the best places to stay (Photo of Montauk Point Lighthouse by notnyt) // Local Adventurer #iloveny #newyork #roadtrip #visittheusa #newenglandPin

photo: notnyt

14. Watch Hill, RI

41.3140522,-71.8785778, map

Distance: 145 mi / 2 hr 35 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Watch Hill Lighthouse, Napatree Point, Carousel Beach
What to Eat: The Malted BarleyElla’s Fine Food & DrinkThe Cooked Goose
Where to Stay: Pleasant View InnLangworthy Farm Bed & BreakfastThe Villa Bed & Breakfast

Looking for stunning sunsets? Head over to the Watch Hill and find one of the many viewpoints. Play at the beach all day or if you prefer to getaway from the crowds, head to the sand spit called Napatree Point. You can also for for a ride on a carousel that is a National Historic Landmark.

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15. Niagara Falls, NY

Niagara Falls, NY 14304, map

Distance: 145 mi / 2 hr 35 min (map)
Things You Can’t Miss: Watch Hill Lighthouse, Napatree Point, Carousel Beach
What to Eat: The Malted BarleyElla’s Fine Food & DrinkThe Cooked Goose
Where to Stay: Pleasant View InnLangworthy Farm Bed & BreakfastThe Villa Bed & Breakfast

Niagara Falls is on most people’s bucket list, so why not go ahead and cross it off? It’s an easy weekend trip from NYC

Pro Tip: Bring your passport! The views from the Canada side are much better.

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More Weekend Trip Ideas Under 7 Hours

  1. The North Fork, Long Island, NY ( 81 mi / 1 hr 35 min / map)
  2. Shelter Island, NY ( 106 mi / 2 hr 30 min / map)
  3. Cape May, NJ ( 158 mi / 2 hr 35 min / map)
  4. Saratoga Springs, NY ( 185 mi / 3 hr 10 min / map)
  5. Annapolis, MD ( 216 mi / 3 hr 30 min / map)
  6. Newport, RI ( 180 mi / 3 hr 30 min / map)
  7. Rehoboth Beach, DE ( 211 mi / 3 hr 30 min / map)
  8. St Michaels, MD ( 210 mi / 3 hr 40 min / map)
  9. Cooperstown, NY ( 199 mi / 3 hr 45 min / map)
  10. Manchester, VT ( 211 mi / 3 hr 45 min / map)
  11. Cape Cod, MA (235 mi / 4 hr 15 min / map)
  12. Ithaca, NY ( 235 mi / 4 hr 15 min / map)
  13. Hanover, NH (266 mi / 4 hr 25 min / map)
  14. Portsmouth, NH ( 263 mi / 4 hr 25 min / map)
  15. Woodstock, VT ( 265 mi / 4 hr 40 min / map)
  16. Kennebunkport, ME ( 291 mi / 5 hr / map)
  17. Finger Lakes, NY (269 mi / 5 hr / map)
  18. Adirondacks, NY (299 mi / 5 hr 10 min / map)
  19. Martha’s Vineyard (266 mi / 5 hr 25 min / map)
  20. Warren, VT ( 298 mi / 5 hr 30 min / map)
  21. Stowe, VT ( 334 mi / 5 hr 40 min / map)
  22. Letchworth State Park, NY ( 324 mi / 5 hr 45 min / map)
  23. Pittsburgh, PA (370 mi / 6 hr / map)
  24. Nantucket, MA (370 mi / 6 hr / map)
  25. Buffalo, NY ( 374 mi / 6 hr 35 min / map)

Tips for Planning the Perfect Weekend Getaway

  • Don’t put pressure on planning. Sometimes the best weekends happen when you decide to just go!
  • Leave room to explore. Don’t pack your schedule so much that you don’t have time to stumble across a new discovery. If the drive says 2 hours, give yourself 3. Who knows what roadside stops you might find.
  • If you have the flexibility to leave during the week, those are the best times to avoid crowds.
  • You can visit a lot of these spots as a day trip!
  •  Get a $25 driving credit when you sign up for Zipcar with this link. It’ll help you get started on your weekend adventures!

Tips for Planning the perfect weekend getaway

  • Don’t put pressure on planning. Sometimes the best weekends happen when you decide to just go!
  • Leave room to explore. Don’t pack your schedule so much that you don’t have time to stumble across a new discovery. If the drive says 2 hours, give yourself 3. Who knows what roadside stops you might find.
  • If you have the flexibility to leave during the week, those are the best times to avoid crowds.
  • You can visit a lot of these spots as a day trip!
  •  Get a $25 driving credit when you sign up for Zipcar with this link. It’ll help you get started on your weekend adventures!

Map of Weekend Trips from NYC

Which of these weekend trips have you done?

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Need a break from the city? Save this pin and click through to see the best weekend getaways from nyc to the most amazing spots in the northeast. Whether you're planning romantic weekend getaways near nyc, road tripping with a bunch of friends, or just looking for some last minute getaways from nyc, everyone needs to escape the big apple from time to time (Pictured is Niagara Falls on the US side). // Local Adventurer #nyc #roadtrip #visittheusaPin
Want to plan some weekend trips from NYC? You need to save this pin and click through to check out the ultimate list of weekend getaways near NYC. No matter what season you're going, it includes winter weekend getaways from nyc, favorite summertime spots for the locals, and even the best cheap getaways from nyc (Pictured here is Kaaterskill Falls in Catskills NY) // Local Adventurer #hunter #iloveny #newyork #ny #visittheusaPin
15 Amazing Long Weekend Trips from NYC // Local Adventurer #roadtrip #nyc #newyork #usaPin
Want to plan some weekend trips from NYC? You need to save this pin and click through to check out the ultimate list of weekend getaways near NYC. No matter what season you're going, it includes winter weekend getaways from nyc, favorite summertime spots for the locals, and even the best fall getaways from nyc (Photo of Hunter Mountain NY by PilotGirl) // Local Adventurer #hunter #iloveny #newyork #ny #visittheusaPin
Portland Head Lighthouse, Portland Maine // Local Adventurer #portlandme #maine #mainething #portlandmaine #usa #visittheusa #lighthousePin
15 Incredible Weekend Getaways Near NYC // Local Adventurer #washingtondc #dc #roadtrip #usa #visittheusaPin
Need some ideas for easy and quick getaways from NYC? Save this pin and click through to get out of the city and visit amazing spots in the northeast. Whether you're planning romantic weekend getaways from nyc for couples, road tripping with a bunch of friends, or just looking for last minute getaways from nyc, everyone needs to escape the big apple from time to time. // Local Adventurer #philadelphia #pennsylvania #roadtrip #visittheusaPin

“MeetPin

ESTHER + JACOB

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, which is one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found both near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city every year and currently base themselves in NYC.

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