Weekend getaways from NYC provide us residents a much-needed break from the chaotic energy of our beloved home—and then, after a few days away, remind us why we couldn’t live anywhere else. At the same time, weekend trips like these provide visitors an opportunity to pair a visit to the Big Apple with a local-approved side trip to the quaint towns of Hudson Valley, upstate’s forested mountain ranges, and New England’s numerous coastal enclaves.
Thanks to New York City’s lengthy list of airports, trains, ferries, and bus lines, all of the above are easily accessible from Manhattan with a bit of planning and know-how. And if there’s one thing the New York-based travel editors at Condé Nast Traveler know how to finesse, it’s packing a punch into a long weekend.
Whether you’re looking for a winter ski trip, fall foliage hike, or summer beach escape, we’ve rounded up the 20 best weekend getaways from NYC, including where to stay and how to get there. If you’re staying within the bounds of the Empire State, check out our ultimate guide to New York State for the best restaurants, hotels, and spas in the Catskills, Adirondacks, Hamptons, and beyond.
This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.