When you only see snow on your commute to and from work, of course, winter can feel like a drag. But when you actually escape the bustle of the city for a cozy getaway weekend? Suddenly the fluffy white snow and crystal icicles are like pure magic. No matter what you’re looking for, whether it's skiing, small-town vibes, big-city excitement, or R&R at a resort, we’ve got a trip that’s just right—and less than a three-hour drive from NYC. 

Originally published 11/02/2019 | Updated 10/24/2025

Reach Deep Relaxation at a Luxury Resort and Spa

Mohonk Ice Skating

New Paltz; Distance from NYC: 1 hr 50 mins

At least once a year it’s nice to get away to a place that caters to your every whim. Find the ultimate R&R at the all-inclusive and perfectly picturesque Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, just under two hours north of the city. A cross between a ski lodge and a castle, its 265 rooms offer stunning views of 40,000 acres of forest and mountain ridge. Get out on the trails with MICROspikes, snowshoes, or cross-country skis and then settle in at the award-winning spa for the ultimate renewal of body, mind, and spirit. Say goodbye to all tension as you enjoy massages and skincare enhanced with locally sourced herbs and plants. Of course, relaxing your body is only half the journey. Mohonk also offers a range of yoga, meditation, and fitness classes. If you’re traveling with kids, Mohonk offers special activity-packed programs for all ages, free of charge for overnight guests. Plus, there's snow tubing, ice skating, movies, and s'mores by the campfire.

Explore a New City

A sunset picture of the Empire State Plaza in downtown Albany
Credit: @worldfrommylensphotos on Instagram

Albany; Distance from NYC: 3 hrs

Love the excitement and convenience of a big city but need a break from the city? Head for a weekend in New York’s capital! Renaissance Albany and the Morgan State House Inn  will both put you in the heart of Albany, near bars, restaurants, and nightlife. You’ll also be just a stone’s throw from the beautiful Empire State Plaza, “The Egg” (a uniquely shaped performing arts center), and the State Capitol building. The New York State Museum is an especially fun stop for the whole family. Kids will love the wildlife dioramas, learning about the Ice Age, and taking a ride on the museum’s vintage carousel. Get your culture fix at the Albany Institute of History & Art, or see what shows are coming to the majestic Palace Theatre. Finally, get to know Albany’s crafty side with the Capital Craft Beverage Trail, a guide to all the region’s breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cideries. Visit Fort Orange Brewing, Druthers Brewing Company, and Nine Pin Cider Works, all without leaving the city!

Hit the Slopes

Two skiers ski down Hunter Mountain

Hunter; Distance from NYC: 2 hrs 40 min

The perfect weekend of skiing awaits just under three hours outside of the city at Hunter Mountain. Stay slopeside at the Kaatskill Mountain Club to get more time on the mountain or set your basecamp at the nearby Scribner’s Lodge, known for its thoughtful design, friendly service, stunning mountain views, ice skating rink, and locally-inspired restaurant. During the day, head to the mountain to enjoy an impressive vertical drop, 67 trails, 320 skiable acres, four terrain parks, 13 lifts, 1,000-foot-long tubing hill, large base lodge for chilling out, and state of the art learning center. It's the perfect destination for an action-packed winter adventure.

Savor Small Town Charm

Colorful building surrounded by snow line Hudson's Warren Street

Credit: @buyingupstate on Instagram

Hudson; Distance from NYC: 2 hrs 30 minutes

Boutique hotels from Wm. Farmer and Sons to Hudson Whaler make the perfect home base for exploring the shops, galleries, restaurants housed in historic buildings along the picturesque Warren Street (pictured). Hudson's main street has made it one of the Hudson Valley's biggest draws. Must-stops include the Maker Cafe inside (and outside) the luxurious Maker Hotel for contemporary American fare and Back Bar for creative Asian-inspired dishes and fun drink options. For even more ideas, check out our blog on how to spend 48 Hours in Hudson.

Get Cozy in a Cabin

Bear Mountain
Credit: Michael Adamovic

Bear Mountain; Distance from NYC: 1 hr 30 minutes

Nothing says cozy quite like a cabin in the woods, or in this case, a homey little stone cottage. Even better, the Stone Cottages at Bear Mountain Inn each come with a cozy front porch, a communal living space with six individual bedrooms, and wood-burning fireplace. Your stay lets you stay comfortably close to nature at Bear Mountain State Park. Besides the tranquility of snow-covered forests and mountains, the park is filled with fun. There are trails to traverse via snowshoe, on cross-country skis, or just in your snow boots. The park also includes its own ice skating rink where you can enjoy the open air on ice, surrounded by mountains and trees. 

Surprise The Family with a Dude Ranch Getaway

View from a snowy fire pit looking out at steaming hot springs and waterslide in winter

Credit: @d_mast24212718 on Instagram

Highland; Distance from NYC: 1 hr 30 mins

Surprise the kids with a stay at the Rocking Horse Ranch Resort in Highland, where they can meet horses and ponies while you enjoy a stress-free all-inclusive getaway. Horseback riding is a staple year-round, with pony rides for the Junior Wranglers. Take a horse-drawn wagon ride through the snow, or sign the little ones up for classes where they’ll be learning how to ski in no time. Rocking Horse has a special area for snow tubing and a magic carpet lift to bring you right back to the top of the hill so you don’t get tired out. And don’t forget to pack a bathing suit to enjoy the 85-degree indoor waterpark and forget all about the outside temperature. There’s an Aqua Station for very young children and a 250-foot water slide that will thrill bigger kids. You won’t hear a peep about having nothing to do. 

Soak in Views of the Water

Sound View Greenport

North Fork; Distance from NYC: 2 hrs

Yes, it’s too cold to get in the water (unless you’re a fan of taking polar plunges). But that doesn’t mean that gazing out over the water isn’t incredibly soothing and inspiring. Plus, visiting the North Fork of Long Island during the winter doesn’t just mean gorgeous sights and fun things to do—great hotel rooms are a fraction of the price they are during summer’s peak tourist season. Stay at the chic and elegant Sound View in Greenport for views of the Long Island Sound, or the spacious and comfortable Hyatt Place in Riverhead for rooms overlooking the Peconic River. When you’re not soaking in the sights from your window, feel even closer to the ocean by visiting the beautiful and mysterious creatures at the Long Island Aquarium. Or take your curiosity in the other direction at The Custer Institute & Observatory. You’re invited to get a crystal-clear view of the night sky through their powerful telescopes every Saturday from dusk until midnight for a suggested donation of $5. (Bundle up! Observing takes place in the open air for the sharpest view.) Top off your trip with a visit to the Tasting Room at the Sparkling Pointe Vineyard or the fantastic Greenport Harbor Brewing Company where you can try seasonal beer, such as the Leaf Pile ale. Or, you know, visit both! 

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