Hustling is the way of life these days, and people need a break from subway rides and cramped apartments once in a while. A weekend getaway from NYC, a city that never sleeps, will do wonders for the mind and soul with many things to do with kids that will keep them entertained. There are countless appealing destinations all with plenty of activities, hotels, and restaurants to fill a weekend. Quiet nature walks, soaking in art at the galleries, and fresh seafood served in waterfront eateries are only a ride away from NYC. The following are the best weekend getaways from NYC for families.
Best Weekend Getaways From NYC
1. Montauk
The legendary and glamorous beach town has long welcomed weary travelers escaping from the bustle of New York City. Montauk has carved its name as a quirky hamlet for its beaches and parks, especially during the summers. Coined as “The End”, it is the very last town on the eastern tip of Long Island connected by a small stretch of land. Visit the museum, or walk up to Point Lighthouse. Enjoy a short hike through Shadmoor State Park or a picnic in the Walking Dunes of Hither Hills. Otherwise, stroll downtown for shopping, galleries, and seafood eateries. Stop by Puff ‘N’ Putt for mini golf, boating, and kayaking.
2. Cooperstown
Home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, you will find that the rustic village of Cooperstown inspires a kind of devotion to baseball fans. There is an impressive collection, a Hall of Plaque, and an interactive Sandlot section that the kids will love learning about. Discover Native American art at Fenimore Art Museum, or learn history at Hyde Hall. In the end, head to the Farmer’s Museum with a working farmstead inspired by rural 19th century America where there’s a children’s barnyard.
3. Hudson
A short drive from the city, Hudson is on the east side of the Hudson River and filled with glamorous resorts that make the most of their scenic locale. The rolling hills and dense pine forests offer a welcome escape from the chaos of the city, and the appeal of this beautiful valley lies in its hiking trails and inviting swimming holes. Stroll through the downtown streets filled with antique stores, one-of-a-kind shops, and art galleries.
4. The Hamptons
A long-time favorite destination for those who want to escape the Big Apple, The Hamptons is also a hot spot for celebs tanning on soft sands, while children run around. A bunch of hamlets and quaint villages make up what is known as The Hamptons. You can visit the Pollock-Krasner house, shop from designer boutiques in the villages, or enjoy a waterfront dinner viewing beautiful sunsets.
5. North Fork, Long Island
With local wineries, rural pastures, and farm-to-table food, North Fork feels worlds away from the concrete forest of NYC. Known for its marina, fishing, boating, vineyards, and blooming fields of lavender, North Fork is a haven to escape to. Take a ferry from North Haven to Shelter Island where you will be impressed with salt marshes at the Mashomack Nature Preserve. You can also charter a boat or rent a bike to explore the downtown, the choice is yours.
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6. Finger Lakes
If you and your family want to chase after outdoorsy activities like paddleboarding, swimming, kayaking, and windsurfing, then take a trip to spectacular Finger Lakes. The adventurous ones can dive into a gorge or wade through a waterfall. It is home to eleven iconic lakes with charming towns peppering around each lake. Hike through Watkins Glen State Park or learn about live glass blowing at Corning Museum of Glass.
7. Long Beach
Just the name brings the images of warm sun, soft sand, and surfing fun. That’s exactly what this resort community represents a laid-back atmosphere with a charming small-town vibe. Known for fun parades and festivals throughout the summer, the community also offers plenty of local parks and playgrounds.
8. Philadelphia
It is an obvious choice but too easily forgotten. Philadelphia is one of the largest cities, but it feels like a small town, especially when you stroll through its old neighborhoods, such as Old City or Northern Liberties. An exciting food city offering its renowned cheesesteaks, it is an easy urban getaway for families and couples. Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, sample fine foods in the Reading Terminal Market, or explore iconic locations like Liberty Bell or Independence Hall. Philadelphia Zoo is an important must-see for any family visiting the city.
9. Princeton
Midway between NYC and Philadelphia, Princeton is a suburban community with a vibrant downtown and excellent eateries. Best known for America’s Ivy League schools, Princeton University, and the Communiversity Festival of Arts. It is impossible to miss the historic and grand buildings making it difficult to leave. Learn about history and culture at Princeton University Art Museum and Nassau Hall. Shop, eat, or sit while watching the world pass by at Palmer Square, the heart of this charming town. Or catch a performance at McCarter Theater Center or Princeton Garden Theater, there is much to do.
10. Washington
Besides being educative, an experience of the country’s capital will get you excited and keep you entertained. Whether your kids want to learn about US history, politics, or so on, or have fun there are plenty of museums and attractions at your disposal. Check out the National Zoo or the largest library in the world, The Library of Congress. Tour George Washington’s estate home and learn about his life or stroll through the National Mall which is home to iconic monuments like Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial.
11. Newport
One of the prettiest summer towns in New England, the classical coastal destination has much to offer. Enjoy the sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean while you wander through the Gilded Age summer cottages and glamorous mansions. The Cliff Walk is the most touristy thing to do after which you can take a break tanning at Easton Beach, one of the best beaches primed for families boasting a playground, carousel, skateboard park, and other facilities.
12. Adirondacks
Home to a 6-million-acre state Park, larger than Yellowstone, the Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon combined, it is just a few hours away from NYC. It contains state-protected preserves that have old forests, waterfalls, and sparkling lakes. Canoe or Kayak on Lake George or hike through the 2,000 miles of trail.
13. Nantucket
If you love eating, the Nantucket is an ideal destination for foodies. You can also explore the town by riding a bike, learn the history of the whaling industry, or fly a kite. There are marvelous iconic 17th-century clapboard homes, which will make you feel like you traveled back in time. There are private and self-guided walking tours of the island’s historic neighborhood. You can also learn about the Wampanoag people and their history at the Whaling Museum.
14. Ocean City
One of the best destinations for families, Ocean City is a seashore town between the Atlantic Ocean and Isle of Wight Bay. Boasting soft white sand beaches and plenty of the area’s other attractions, the dry town promises to keep away obnoxious revelers. It has two mini gold courses and super fun Gillian’s Wonderland Pier amusement park complete with a Ferris wheel. Take a ride on the historic Trimper’s carousel, or thrill yourself at Jolly Roger’s Splash Mountain Water Park. Ocean City is one of the best places to spend a weekend getaway filled with sun, sand, and surf.
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15. Mystic
A picture-perfect riverside town with a history that delights your soul. You can get lost in the lore of the old with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum. Children will love the Mystic Aquarium, where they can watch the African Penguins and Beluga whales. You can also explore the re-created 19th-century charming village filled with clapboard homes and storefronts, colonial-era steeples, old sea captains’ residences, and an authentic whaling ship.
Concluding Words
These weekend escapes provide the much-needed respite from the city that never sleeps for you and your family. You can take a bus, train, or drive your car to these gorgeous spots within easy reach of NYC. Disappear into the woods, soak up the salty air, and enjoy the local wine in these destinations surrounded by scenic nature, soft beaches, majestic state parks, and sparkling lakes.
