Weekend Trips for New Yorkers: Your Perfect Getaway Guide
Living in the state of New York offers a diverse array of experiences, from the hustle and bustle of urban centers to the tranquility of rural landscapes. But sometimes, even the Empire State's varied charms can leave you yearning for a change of scenery.
Whether you're from the Adirondacks or the Finger Lakes, Long Island or the Hudson Valley, a weekend getaway can provide a refreshing break from your usual routine.
Here are some great destinations to consider for a low-stress weekend away, all within quick reach for New York State residents.
Also read: Why You Should Get Travel Insurance for Shorter Trips
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls remains one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in North America, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and tourist-friendly attractions. Its thundering waters and misty atmosphere create a mesmerizing spectacle that draws visitors from around the world – luckily New Yorkers don’t need to travel so far.
For New Yorkers looking for a weekend getaway, Niagara Falls offers an ideal mix of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. The Falls themselves are the star attraction, with their raw power and beauty on full display year-round. Whether you're visiting in the lush green of summer or the icy wonderland of winter, the Falls never fail to impress.
The area has perfected the art of accommodating tourists, offering a variety of experiences to suit different preferences. The Maid of the Mist boat tour remains one of the most exhilarating ways to get up close to the Falls, while the Cave of the Winds provides a thrilling opportunity to feel the spray on your face.
For those who prefer to stay dry, the Skylon Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Falls and surrounding area. Nature enthusiasts might enjoy the Butterfly Conservatory, while wine lovers can explore the local wineries on the Niagara Wine Trail.
The proximity of this natural wonder to urban amenities means you can easily combine outdoor adventures with comfortable accommodations, fine dining, and even some nightlife or casino action if that's your preference.
Pro Tip: Consider staying on the Canadian side for better views of the Falls. Don't forget your passport if you plan to cross the border and take the opportunity to try some uniquely Canadian treats like poutine.
Also read: 10 Quick Tips for Traveling with Just a Carry-On
The Thousand Islands
The Thousand Islands are a lie. There are actually more than 1,800 islands in the St. Lawrence River ripe for exploring and enjoying.
Reaching any particular island takes some doing, and a boat, but even if you don’t have a boat you have options.
You can take a boat or hot-air-balloon tour of the islands, check out the Frederic Remington Art Museum, lay on the beach at Southwick Beach State Park, or explore the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton.
The Thousand Islands also have castles you can tour. The Singer and Boldt castles are inspired by English and Scottish castles and provide a glimpse into the opulent excess that could be built on the backs of immigrant labor at the turn of the last century. Both are accessible via boat tours.
If that sounds too touristy for you, just rent a kayak and paddle along the shore soaking up all the natural beauty.
Pro Tip: Visit during the shoulder season (late spring or early fall) for fewer crowds and more comfortable temperatures. You'll still be able to enjoy most activities, and you might catch some beautiful foliage in the fall.
Want to explore New York City without spending much? Find Free Things to do in New York City
Montreal
For New Yorkers seeking an international experience without the hassle of a long-distance trip, Montreal is the perfect weekend getaway. Just a few hours' drive from many parts of the state, this vibrant Canadian city offers a delightful blend of European charm and North American energy.
Montreal is a cosmopolitan gem with amazing food, formal and informal festivals, European-inspired markets, and charming neighborhoods.
Old Montreal is where all the tourists go, and it's worth a visit, but it's best to approach Montreal on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis. For instance, if you grab a vacation rental on Nun's Island you can stroll along the water in the mornings and then take the bus into the city and wander through Shaughnessy Village or the area around Mount Royal.
Pro Tip: Avoid driving as much as possible. Take mass transit. The locals do, and they know their way around.
Also read: Top 10 Places to Visit in Canada and Tips for American Travelers
Washington, D.C.
Why Washington D.C.? Because it’s easy. Head to the gorgeous new Moynihan Train Hall, get on the closest thing this country has to high-speed rail, get off in Washington’s Union Station, and start walking. There’s going to be something beautiful and/or historic close by.
If it’s been a spell since you’ve walked down the National Mall and seen the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials or the Smithsonian museums, you owe it to yourself to reacquaint yourself with these national treasures.
The National Gallery of Art and the U.S. Capitol are also must-sees.
Washington’s dining scene is improving, there’s centrally located lodging, and if you visit in the fall you’ll have many of the sights virtually to yourself.
Pro Tip: Want to eat where the presidents eat? You can’t beat Ray’s Hell Burger.
Get travel tips for Washington D.C. from those who know it best
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
A weekend in Pennsylvania Dutch Country offers a refreshing escape into a world that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity. Just a few hours' drive from many parts of New York, this unique region provides a perfect balance of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and local cuisine.
Lancaster County, the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, welcomes visitors with its picturesque farmlands, covered bridges, and vibrant communities. Here, you can experience a slower pace of life while enjoying a variety of activities. Take a scenic buggy ride through the countryside, explore the bustling Central Market in downtown Lancaster (one of the oldest farmers' markets in the U.S.), or sample local delicacies like shoofly pie and soft pretzels.
For history enthusiasts, the region offers numerous museums and historical sites that showcase the area's rich heritage. The Amish Village provides insights into the Amish way of life, while the Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania German rural life.
Don't miss a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road, America's oldest operating railroad. This steam-powered train journey through the Amish countryside is a hit with both kids and adults.
Pro Tip: While the area is known for its Amish communities, remember that Lancaster also has a thriving arts scene and excellent restaurants. Balance your itinerary with both traditional experiences and contemporary attractions for a well-rounded visit.
Pittsburgh
For New Yorkers looking for an urban getaway with a different flavor, Pittsburgh offers a surprising blend of culture, history, and modern attractions. This vibrant city, once known primarily for its steel industry, has reinvented itself as a hub of technology, education, and the arts.
Pittsburgh's charm lies in its diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. The Oakland area, home to several universities, boasts an impressive concentration of museums, libraries, parks, and conservatories. Here you'll find the Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History, Phipps Conservatory, and the Cathedral of Learning, among other attractions.
The city's food scene is a delightful mix of traditional and innovative. While you might be surprised to find french fries on sandwiches (a local specialty), the culinary offerings range from classic comfort food to cutting-edge gastronomy. Sports fans shouldn't miss a Pirates game at PNC Park, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful ballparks in America.
Pro Tip: Take a cruise on Pittsburgh's three rivers - the Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio. The city's iconic skyline and numerous bridges are best appreciated from the water, offering a unique perspective on this reinvented steel town.
Exploring beyond your familiar New York haunts can be an exciting adventure. Whether you're looking for a cultural excursion, a nature retreat, or a city break, these destinations offer something for every New Yorker. Remember, though, that even short trips can benefit from travel insurance and assistance services.
Help protect your weekend adventures with travel protection from Generali Global Assistance. We offer plans with coverages for trip cancellation, trip interruption, baggage, medical emergencies and other issues that could affect even a short trip.
Get a quote today and start planning your perfect weekend getaway from wherever you call home in the great state of New York.
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