NEWSLETTER
Itching to get out of the big city? Here are 16 car-free weekend getaways to smaller towns and cities that offer access to engaging activities, not to mention some incredible scenery! And for more travel ideas and discounted options check out MTA getaways.
Originally published 12/20/2022 | Updated 3/5/25
1. New Paltz
Head to New Paltz for a Catskills weekend retreat. A landmark must-see in the area is the Mohonk Mountain House, perched on a cliff, overlooking the Shawangunk mountain range. Stay overnight at the Mountain House for a luxurious lodging experience or downtown at the Hampton Inn by Hilton for affordable accommodation. You can still marvel at the Mohonk Mountain House and hike the historic grounds on a budget with a day pass. While you’re in New Paltz make sure to check out historic Huguenot Street, Dressel Farms for farm fresh goods, Main Street Bistro for the best brunch in town, and grab a pint at Keegan Ales, an award-winning brewery serving craft stouts, ales, and food. Walk it all off at the expansive Mohonk Preserve or Minnewaska State Park, both a nature lover’s dream landscape.
How to get there: Take a 2-hour ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to Poughkeepsie and from there it’s just a 25 minute drive. Trailways and Greyhound bus services also bring you right into New Paltz.
2. Cold Spring
Cold Spring is an unspoiled, charming riverside village that's perfect for a weekend getaway. Stay at the Pig Hill Inn for a divine bed & breakfast experience, or at the Cold Spring Hotel & Cafe for a traditional hotel stay, right in the heart of downtown. Explore the village’s main street and stop into shops like Poor George, Split Rock Books, Cold Spring Antiques Center, and grab a bite at farm-fresh eatery, Hudson Hil's Café. Get in touch with nature as you paddle along the Hudson with Hudson River Expeditions or Storm King Adventure Tours, or hike the Washburn/Cornish, Notch, and Little Stony Point trails in the Hudson Highlands. Soak in the beauty of the area from Cold Spring Dockside Park, offering unparalleled views of the Hudson River. Or venture into Magazzino Italian Art, the only American museum dedicated to Italian art.
How to get there: Take a 1.5-hour ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to the Cold Spring station.
3. Hudson
Hudson is a vibrant small city bursting with exceptional dining, charming boutique hotels, eclectic antique shops, and trendy bars, making it the ultimate car-free getaway for New Yorkers who want to indulge without the city's hustle. Stay at the retro-chic Rivertown Lodge on Warren Street for an affordable yet stylish experience, or splurge on a luxurious stay at The Maker. Step outside and explore the architectural treasures lining Warren Street, including the 40,000-square-foot Antique Warehouse, the largest owner-operated antique and vintage shop in northeastern America. Unwind with a picnic at Promenade Hill Park, where the scenic Hudson River waterfront beckons. For cutting-edge fashion, décor, and furniture, visit the stylish Magic Hill boutique. Savor exquisite French fare at Le Perche bistro or enjoy upscale tavern dishes at Wm. Farmer and Sons. Just a few minutes down the road, you'll transition from city life to the tranquility of nature at Olana State Historic Site, the former home of Hudson River School painter Frederic Church. This expansive 250-acre estate blends Victorian architecture with Middle Eastern influences, perched on a stunning hillside overlooking the Hudson River.
How to get there: Take Amtrak for a 2.25-hour ride from Moynihan Train Hall to the Hudson station.
4. Beacon
Named for the signal fires atop Mount Beacon during the Revolutionary War, this riverside boom town will have you hooked from its friendly downtown to its thriving art scene. A 1.5-hour ride on Metro-North will land you at Beacon Station, just a 10 minute walk from Main Street. Check into The Roundhouse, nestled alongside Beacon Falls, for modern luxury, or enjoy warm hospitality at the Swann Inn. Admire stunning views of the waterfront at Long Dock Park and for a real adventure on the Hudson take a kayak tour out to Bannerman Castle ruins. Get a taste of Beacon's art scene at Dia Beacon or explore its walkable downtown that’s chock full of boutiques, galleries, and artisan cafés. Outdoor enthusiasts should take the Beacon Free Loop to the Route 9D stop to access the Mount Beacon Trailhead, where you can hike to the top of the fire tower to unlock some seriously spectacular views. After working up an appetite, grab a bite at favorites like Yankee Clipper Diner, Bank Square Coffeehouse, or Beacon Bread Co.
How to get there: Take a 1.5-hour ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to the Beacon Station. Main Street is a short 10-minute walk away.
5. Port Jefferson
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A colonial-era port town turned waterfront vacation spot, Port Jefferson is known for its coastal downtown that’s colored with boutiques and restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to ramen. With cozy digs, spectacular waterfront views, and a prime location within walking distance of the bustling downtown, Danfords Hotel & Marina will make the perfect homebase for your weekend escape. Set sail on a schooner tour, enjoy the sea salt breeze from Harborfront Park, or escape to McAllister Park, a hidden cove to the north of the village where the golden dunes meet the crystal coast. Kids will love playing the day away at the whimsical Rocketship Park or getting hands-on fun at the Long Island Explorium science museum. For a night out, unleash your inner artist at Muse Paintbar or catch a performance at Theatre Three.
How to get there: Take a 2-hour Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) train ride from Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station or Grand Central Terminal to Port Jefferson and take a quick 5 minute cab ride into town.
6. Woodstock
Say goodbye to the hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the serenity of Woodstock, where nature, art, and culture come together in perfect harmony. At the Woodstock Way Hotel, you'll find yourself nestled creekside, just steps from the town center, surrounded by the soothing sounds of a rushing waterfall and a babbling brook. For a more budget-friendly option, The Woodstock Inn on Millstream offers a charming stay just minutes from town, complete with a continental breakfast.
This picturesque, walkable town in the Catskills begins at Tinker Street, where you'll discover an eclectic mix of vintage shops, tie-dye treasures, award-winning baked goods, and a thriving arts scene. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Oriole 9, SILVIA, or Good Night. Embrace the peaceful energy of Karma Triyana Dharmachakra Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, where you can join a meditation session or a variety of events. Just across the way, embark on a scenic hike to Overlook Mountain, where summiting will offer exclusive views of historic mountain house ruins. And for entertainment, catch a live performance at the Bearsville Theater, Woodstock Playhouse, or Colony.
How to get there: Trailways and Greyhound bus services take you right into downtown Woodstock.
7. Saratoga Springs
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Saratoga Springs is an exciting place to be any time of year, but especially so in the summer when track and concert season are in full swing! Indulge in a lavish stay at the Adelphi Hotel, a classic Victorian hotel featured in both the Michelin and Forbes 2024 guides. For a trendy yet affordable boutique experience, the Bluebird Spa City Motor Lodge offers a prime location in the heart of downtown. Move to the music at Saratoga Performing Arts Center (SPAC), boasting a lively calendar of entertainment from big-name musicians to the Philadelphia Orchestra. Bet on a good time when you visit the historic Saratoga Race Course, set to host the prestigious Belmont Stakes with the full 5-day Belmont Stakes Racing Festival. Take a leisurely stroll through the 2,200-acre Saratoga Spa State Park. The expansive park is home to the Gideon Putnam Resort Hotel & Spa, Roosevelt Baths and Spa, Saratoga Automobile Museum, a geyser, mineral springs, pool complex, golf courses, and so much more. Spend a day on Broadway, Saratoga’s main street, brimming with an array of shops, lively bars, art galleries, and boasting one of the highest restaurant per capita concentrations in the country– standout spots include 15 Church, Hamlet & Ghost, and Osteria Danny.
How to get there: Take a 4-hour Amtrak ride from Moynihan Train Hall to Saratoga Springs station, from there it's just a 5 minute drive into town. Trailways and Greyhound bus services also take you within minutes of downtown Saratoga Springs.
8. Sleepy Hollow
As the birthplace of the Headless Horseman, Sleepy Hollow is the perfect day trip for New Yorkers that love history or Halloween. From the train station, take a six-minute cab ride to the inviting and cozy Sleepy Hollow Hotel to drop off your bags. For a more indulgent getaway, spend the weekend at the Castle Hotel & Spa. A guided tour of historic Lyndhurst Castle is a must; it’s one of America’s finest Gothic Revival mansions, sitting on 67 landscaped acres overlooking the Hudson. Pay a visit to Sleepy Hollow Cemetery for a relaxing stroll through the beautiful grounds or a night time lantern tour. On your way into the village, be sure to make a stop at Old Dutch Church for a self-guided tour. It’s considered the oldest functioning church and cemetery in the state! The walkable village, lined with shops and restaurants, is sure to have something for everyone from brews and bites at Bridge View Tavern to coffee and pastries at Sleepy Coffee Too. For more tips, visit A Fall Weekend in Sleepy Hollow.
How to get there: Take a 35-minute ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to the Tarrytown Station. Take the Bee Line Bus System or five-minute cab ride to Sleepy Hollow Village.
9. Harriman State Park
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New York’s second-largest state park with over 46,000 acres filled with 31 lakes and 200 miles of hiking trails, Harriman State Park is the perfect weekend hiking trip destination out of New York City. From Tuxedo Station, take a five minute taxi to the park, where you’ll find a variety of trails for all hiking levels. Pack a lunch for a picnic alongside spectacular views of the Hudson River. Spend the night under the stars in one of the rustic cabins or cottages at Sebago Cabin Camp, which can be reserved through Reserveamerica.com. While you're visiting, take a quick trip over to Sloatsburg for a bite to eat from restaurants like Rhodes North Tavern, Characters, or Valley Rock Inn. For big savings on luxury, designer name brands, shop ‘til you drop at the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets, less than 10 minutes from the park.
How to get there: From Penn Station, take the 10-minute ride on NJ Transit to Secaucus Junction. Then transfer to the Metro-North Port Jervis Line for the 45-minute ride to Tuxedo Station. Call a cab for the five-minute drive to Harriman State Park.
10. Greenport
Escape to a serene coastal getaway on Long Island’s North Fork, just a 3-hour train ride aboard the LIRR from the city. The charming waterfront village of Greenport awaits, where the train station is a mere block from the Main and Front Streets, brimming with boutique lodging options like American Beech and The Harborfront Inn, eclectic shops, and delicious restaurants, all set against a picturesque waterfront backdrop. Stroll through Burton’s Bookstore for a great read, or browse the nautical treasures at Revel North Fork. For a standout dining experience, try Lucharitos for Baja-style Mexican eats or indulge in fresh seafood with a view at Claudio’s Waterfront. Cap off the evening with expertly crafted cocktails at Brix and Rye or stop in for a pint at Greenport Harbor Brewing Company. A leisurely walk from the village will bring you to 67 Steps Beach, a relatively-hidden gem, with some of the clearest, bluest waters in the state. It’s the perfect spot to relax, soak up the sun, or simply take in the breathtaking views.
How to get there: Take a 4-hour ride on the LIRR to the Greenport station.
11. Long Beach
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Looking for the perfect beach escape less than an hour from the city? Pack your sunscreen and head out to Long Beach on Long Island! This lively beach town is famous for its soft, sandy shores, iconic two-mile boardwalk, and endless fun in the sun. For a relaxing stay, check into Allegria Hotel, a chic beachfront property right on the boardwalk with a rooftop pool and signature restaurant boasting sweeping ocean views. Spend the day catching rays on the beach, learning to surf with local instructors, or biking the boardwalk. Head over to Park Avenue for boutique shopping and local dining. Saturdays in the summer, don't miss the local farmers' market and Arts in the Plaza featuring handcrafted art and live music.
How to get there: Take a 1-hour ride on the LIRR to Long Beach Station, just a short walk from the ocean.
12. Fire Island
Leave the noise behind and escape to Fire Island, a car-free beach paradise just two hours from NYC. Spend your days basking in the sun on the pristine shoreline, exploring the scenic dunes of Robert Moses State Park and maritime holly forest of Sailors Haven, or climbing to the top of the Fire Island Lighthouse. Stroll the island’s many boardwalks, rent a bike, or take to the water with a kayak or canoe. Fire Island is also home to Cherry Grove and the Fire Island Pines, which have been a haven for LGBTQ visitors since before Stonewall, and boast a vibrant nightlife and welcoming community. Dine on fresh seafood at Flynn’s or grab a casual bite at Rachel’s Bakery. As the sun sets, enjoy live music at CJ’s or dance the night away at The Blue Whale. Stay at the luxurious Palms Hotel in Ocean Beach or the Grove Hotel (21+), home to the famous Ice Palace Night Club.
How to get there: Take the LIRR to Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue and hop on a 30-minute ferry to Fire Island.
13. Schenectady
Discover Schenectady, a historic treasure perched on the banks of the Mohawk River, where Thomas Edison laid the foundations for what would become General Electric. One of the nation’s oldest cities, this "Electric City" boasts a lively downtown filled with entertainment, history, and exceptional dining, all within easy walking distance. Book a room at the Stockade Inn, a beautifully restored 1814 landmark that blends historic charm with modern amenities, or settle in at the DoubleTree by Hilton Schenectady Downtown offering a prime location to explore the city’s best attractions.
Take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Stockade District, where over 400 homes that are more than 200 years old bring the past to life or Central Park Rose Garden, home to more than 2,000 rose bushes, a tiered fountain, and peaceful ponds where you can relax and listen to birdsong. Families will love MiSci (Museum of Innovation and Science) and VIA Aquarium, an immersive aquatic experience featuring over 2,000 marine creatures. Theater enthusiasts will love Proctors, where Broadway-caliber productions are available at off-Broadway prices. Head to State Street for a variety of fine dining options, including favorites like Milas, The Nest, Johnny’s, and Chez Nous. For a quirky brunch and great cup of coffee, Ambition Eatery is the place to be, often buzzing with energy from celebrity sightings after performances at Proctors.
How to get there: Take a 3.5-hour ride on Amtrak from Moynihan Train Hall to the Schenectady station. Trailways and Greyhound bus services also take you into downtown Schenectady.
14. Poughkeepsie
Riverside views, rich history and culture, and all kinds of local flavors to explore, this final stop on Metro-North’s Hudson Line has it all. Check into the conveniently-located DoubleTree by Hilton or book a room at the Courtyard Poughkeepsie with thoughtful amenities. Both hotels are just a five-minute taxi ride from the train station and located nearby Dutchess County Transit bus station stops. Take in bird’s-eye-views of the Hudson River on a stroll of the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge, the Walkway Over the Hudson! Explore the historic Locust Grove Estate on a guided tour of the Italianate mansion and 200-acre beautifully-landscaped grounds. If you’re travelling with little ones, be sure to visit the Mid-Hudson Discovery Center filled with interactive exhibits for ages 0-6. Art enthusiasts can explore the 18,000-piece collection at the Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center at Vassar College. In terms of food, you're spoiled for choice with options ranging from fine dining on the river at Shadows on the Hudson to local brews at Mill House Brewing Co. to coffee and brunch at the Poughkeepsie Grind.
How to get there: Take a 2-hour ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to the Poughkeepsie Station. Taxis, rideshares, and Dutchess County Public Transportation are all available from the train station.
15. Kingston
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As New York’s first capital, the charming city of Kingston is filled with adventure, history, and art around every corner. For a luxurious and stylish escape, choose to stay in one of Hotel Kinsley’s four repurposed historic buildings. Best Western Plus Kingston is a great affordable option with delicious continental breakfast, nearby the Washington Ave. Station. All aboard the Catskill Mountain Railroad for historic rides on tracks that were once part of the New York Central Railroad. Head over to John and Crown Streets, home to the only intersection in America where the buildings on all four corners were built pre-Revolutionary War. For even more history, make your way to the Hudson River Maritime Museum to learn about the history of the Hudson River and experience it for yourself on a Hudson River Cruise aboard the Rip Van Winkle II. End the night with a live performance at the Ulster County Performing Arts Center (UPAC). Get to know Kingston’s food scene at top establishments like Sissy’s cozy cafe, Lola’s for wood-fired slice of pizza, or James Beard Award nominee, Top Taste. Hop on the free Ulster County Nature Bus to get connected to Sojourner Truth State Park, Ashokan Rail Trail, and more outdoor destinations.
How to get there: Take Trailways from Port Authority to one of three Kingston Stations: Washington Ave, Strand St. (waterfront), North St. (Hutton Brickyards). Take Metro North/Amtrak to Poughkeepsie Station, then call a cab for a 30-minute drive to Kingston. Take Amtrak to Rhinecliff Station, then call a cab for a 20-minute drive to Kingston. UCAT (Ulster County Area Transit) offers bus service throughout the area.
16. Croton-On-Hudson
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Spend a weekend on the riverfront in this small-town escape just an hour train ride outside the city. Drop off your bags at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites with a heated indoor pool and continental breakfast, and just a 10-minute cab ride from the train. Outdoor adventures are abundant here! Croton Point Park is packed with stunning waterfront views along the RiverWalk year-round and in the warmer months you can soak up the sun on the beach. Croton Gorge Park is home to the Croton Dam (pictured), the second-largest work of hand-hewn masonry. Explore the area on horseback with Westchester Trail Rides’ friendly furry friends or shop local at places like Blue Pig Market with homemade ice cream or Croton River Artisans. For your caffeine fix, try Matters Coffee or Black Cow Coffee and if you’re looking to grab a sit-down meal head to The Tavern at Croton Landing or 140 Grand.
How to get there: Take a 1-hour ride on Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal to the Croton-Harmon Station.
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