If you’re looking for a little summer getaway from the city filled with scenic escapes, we’ve got you covered with these weekend getaways. Most of these ideas came from Secret NYC readers themselves, responding to a survey on our Instagram story. So, thank YOU.
We don’t know about you, but we’re already planning our next trip!
1. The Catskills
The NY region alongside the stunning Catskills Mountains is quite large, and boasts loads of hiking, farm-fresh goods, and a much slower pace than NYC. Some popular towns include: Phoenicia, Woodstock, and Rhinebeck (see #15!). Find out more at VisitTheCatskills.com.
2. Burlington, Vermont
Looking for a weekend outdoors trip this summer? Head to Burlington, Vermont where you can hike, bike, and swim to your heart’s content! It’s a vibrant dreamland on the shores of Lake Champlain that feels like the perfect getaway for a few days! Plus, while you’re not doing sports, you can eat and drink through Church Street Marketplace, take in views of Lake Champlain, and catch a show at century old theater The Flynn!
3. The Hamptons
The Hamptons are known as the place where New Yorkers escape to for the summer, and for good reason. Oceanfront beaches, eateries on the water and high-end boutiques are just a few reasons it’s the favorite getaway spot for Manhattanites. We even put together our own ultimate guide to the Hamptons!
4. North Fork, Long Island
The other “fork” of Long Island may not be quite as known as the Hamptons, but it’s just as stunning! Wineries are the name of the game here–some of our favorite ones can be found here–plus there are calm local beaches, and plenty of farm-fresh cuisine. Learn more here.
5. Boston, Massachusetts
Pay our friends over in Boston a visit to have a weekend at one of the East Coast’s best cities. You can spend a day of the weekend at Maratha’s Vineyard, a night at a Boston Red Sox game, and even eating your way through the delicious Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Just a short train or drive away is Philadelphia, the city of Brotherly Love! During the summer, you can check out the Philadelphia Phillies play, or you can partake in summer-y activities like strolling through Dilworth Park, skating around the roller rink at Blue Cross RiverRink Summerfest, taking a stunning river cruise around the city, and so much more! Check out the best things to do in Philadelphia here.
7. Newport, Rhode Island
Just a few states over lies Rhode Island, where one of our favorite weekend destinations Newport resides! There’s tons here to make it a great trip, including journeying down Ocean Drive, checking out the Lefrak Point Lighthouse, pretending you’re in ‘Saltburn’ and touring huge mansions, and so much more! Check out even more things to do in Newport, RI here.
8. Lake Placid, New York
Over 5 hours away from New York City, Lake Placid deserves to be an entire weekend excursion. Of course the wintry destination is prime for skiing and snowboarding, but the former 1980 Olympics location has tons of attractions to see in the summer, like the Lake Placid Olympic Ski Jumping Complex, Lake Placid Olympic Museum, and more! Not to mention the nearby Whiteface Mountain and picturesque Mirror Lake.
9. Washington, D.C.
According to our friends over in D.C. there’s tons to do there in the summer! I mean, how does a show at Capital One Arena, a performance by The Washington Ballet, or simply just wandering around to enjoy whatever surprises you stumble upon sound? Pretty good, we know.
10. The Finger Lakes Region, New York
The Finger Lakes region in upstate New York is a weekend well spent in wine country. The different lake towns are chalk full of vineyards and wineries, scenic boat tours on the lakes, and charming towns like Seneca Falls and Skaneateles. We recommend snagging an Airbnb for a weekend and taking a tour of a few (of over 100) wineries in the region, before exploring scenic trails in state parks like Watkins Glen State Park and Taughannock Falls State Park. Then, finish off by walking some of the most historic downtowns in the state, lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes.
11. Lake George, New York
During the warmer months, this cute beach town near NYC is most known for its beautiful lakes, rivers, and streams. You can book weekend lodges here, as well as partake in activities like whitewater rafting, golfing, horseback riding, and more! Learn more here.
12. Miami, Florida
How about a weekend getaway that’s a short flight away? We know how much you’re missing the the beach right now, so why not book a trip to Florida?! There’s so much to do, including lounging around at South Beach, admiring art in Wynwood, and try out the hottest restaurants in the country. Check out the best things to do in Miami here.
13. Beacon, New York
Beacon is a quaint little town up in the Hudson Valley area of New York, with an especially artsy influence. It’s known for its whiskey distilleries and glass-blown art, and you can even take a glass blowing class while you’re there! Their Main Street also has lovely little shops. Check out more here.
14. Saranac Lake, New York
Saranac Lake is a good weekender for the outdoorsy-type. It’s nestled into the Adirondack Mountains…so think hiking, kayaking, and camping. That’s not to mention some of their other attraction too like the Hotel Saranac, Adirondack Carousel, The Saranac Laboratory, and Pendragon Theatre.
15. Rhinebeck, New York
Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley, this quaint town boasts views of the Catskills as well as lots of local business love. From specialty shops to boutique farms to historic homes, and lots of winter hiking opportunities, it’s the perfect place to swap the big city blues for small town charm. Learn more here.
16. Bear Mountain & Harriman State Parks
Bear Mountain and Harriman State Park are only a little over an hour outside the city, but will definitely feel like you’re in a different world. Hike to the top of Bear Mountain for amazing views, and then reward yourself with dinner and drinks at the historic Bear Mountain Inn. Or, if you want something even simpler, pack your own supplies and camp out at the smaller Harriman State Park down the road. Find out more about Bear Mountain here and Harriman here.
17. Portland, Maine
Known most for its picturesque waterfront and rich maritime history, Portland is a great weekend spot if you wish to escape the state. As mentioned, their waterfront is world-class, featuring iconic landmarks like the Portland Head Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. Plus, there’s tons of other things to do like feasting on some of the best seafood in the entire country, visiting the Portland Museum of Art, and finding the best beer at one over a dozen of Portland’s breweries.