While there are plenty of exciting summer happenings across the five boroughs, sometimes weekend getaways from NYC are in order.
We’ll admit, everyone once in awhile we have a craving to swap the concrete for sand between our toes and fresh seawater…and a lobster roll or two.
If you’re looking for an escape that only feels worlds away, have a look at some of our vacation recs for Saturdays and Sundays this summer.
The best weekend getaways from NYC to book this summer
All under five hours from NYC, these five spots have something for everyone: adventure, relaxation, delicious eats, and of course, gorgeous surroundings.
Where are you venturing this July and August? Everywhere? Same here.
North Fork, Long Island
Travel time: 3.5 hours
Where to stay: American Beech Hotel (Greenport)
Vacationers automatically associate the Hamptons with Long Island summers, but the North Fork is the quintessential seasonal escape that serves as an antithesis to the high-end destination.
From the vineyards of Long Island’s wine country to U-Pick stands, antique shops, and low-key beachfronts along the Peconic Bay, this portion of Suffolk County boasts a quaint, laid-back atmosphere that feels as fresh as the tomatoes and strawberries you just snagged from the local farm stand.
There’s plenty worth exploring, particularly when traveling by car: Mattituck’s mom and pop shops on Love Lane, Greenport’s thriving art scene, and Jamesport’s nurseries and farm stands, to name just a few. (And speaking of Jamesport, a trip to the town’s newly-opened Main Road Biscuit Co. is non-negotiable.)
Whether you’re venturing to the North Fork for an entire weekend or simply one day, this is a friendly reminder to bring a cooler for the fresh fruits and veggies you’re going to spot along your drive.
Wildwood, New Jersey
Travel time: 4.5 hours
Where to stay: Madison Resort at Wildwood Crest
We New Yorkers are elitists and won’t give the Garden State its due credit, but now we’re forced to give in. Wildwood, New Jersey is having a moment and continues to gain popularity this summer thanks to a few recent accolades.
USA Today just crowned the town’s 38-block boardwalk the best in the entire country and the Madison Resort at Wildwood Crest the best new hotel in the country. With the retro, beachside accommodations, you’ll have no problem swapping the city for sun and sand.
From a trip to Morey’s Piers for the littles — those theme park attractions aren’t going to ride themselves — to free summer concerts for everyone in the fam and whale-watching cruises for the adventurous, this Jersey hotspot is not to be missed in 2025.
Hudson Valley, New York
Travel time: 3 hours
Where to stay: Hotel Dylan (Woodstock, NY)
You won’t have to twist any New Yorker’s arm for a brief respite to the Hudson Valley.
Scenic hiking paths, quaint small towns, and farm-to-table dining offer a restorative escape from the city’s hustle and bustle — and there are plenty of spots on our radar.
Mohonk Resort is a storybook mountaintop escape with a delightful spa and wellness offerings, great eats, and of course, scenic views. The town of Hudson, New York, is a picturesque spot famous for its antique stores and local artisans. Meanwhile, Woodstock, New York, exudes a hippy vibe that will leave you with a hankering for a Hendrix listening session.
Mystic, Connecticut
Travel time: 3.5 hours
Where to stay: Steamboat Inn
A maritime escape known for its seaside views — though it still doesn’t boast better pizza than NYC — Mystic, Connecticut, is a great escape for New Yorkers.
A trip to the Mystic Aquarium will be a hit with the young’uns while paddle board, kayak, and bike rentals will keep the adventurous entertained throughout their stay.
Venture downtown for waterfront dining, over 80 shops and galleries, and historical charm courtesy of colonial-era sea captain’s homes and the Mystic Drawbridge. Plus, you’ll work up an appetite after a long day and won’t want to miss the thriving culinary scene.
Narragansett, Rhode Island
Travel time: 4.5 hours
Where to stay: The Shore House
Though Narragansett is easily the furthest destination on our itinerary, it’s one you won’t want to miss.
Nestled close to the quaint shops and waterfront dining of Newport, Rhode Island, this locale is a less-crowded spot known for 100+ miles of gorgeous beaches, fresh seafood — the lobster roll at The Coastguard House is a well-known dish — scenic paths, and small mom and pop shops.
You’ll definitely be glad you hopped on the ferry from Long Island for this trip.
If you’re looking to return home after your outing, have a look at some of our favorite day trips and excursions from NYC.