NEWSLETTER
Credit: @wylderhotelwind on Instagram
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for some time away together, a romantic getaway is waiting for you in New York State that can accommodate every type of budget. From a cozy countryside inn to a nostalgic mountainside lodge to an opulent Gilded Age castle, treat your sweet to a dreamy couple’s escape with these romantic retreats that are made to splurge or save.
Masks are encouraged, but optional in most settings per New York State guidelines. Individual businesses or attractions may require mask wearing. Call ahead and check websites and social media to make sure attractions and amenities are open and available.
Originally published 02/06/2023
Budget: Chautauqua-Allegheny
Embark on a lovely romantic retreat to the Great Tree Inn in Mayville for some quality time in the country. Get cozy at this 1850 farmhouse, located mere minutes from the sparkling Chautauqua Lake, in one of their quaint rooms each bearing a unique theme from English Ivy to Victorian Violet. After starting your morning with a farm-fresh breakfast, let Herman the barn cat introduce you to his animal friends at the inn’s farm or hit the scenic trails for some alone time hiking, biking or cross-country skiing. In nearby Jamestown, share laughs together at the National Comedy Center ($33.50 adults) or celebrate the love and legacy of hometown darling Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz at the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum (pictured; $21 adults). Save on entry to both museums when you buy a dual admission ticket for $40.50. Toast to your love with tastings at Johnson Estate Winery in Westfield or Merritt Estate Winery in Forestville, and then settle in for a romantic dinner at Forte in Jamestown, where the lush red walls of the dimly lit dining room create the intimate ambiance perfect for a dinner for two. For a more casual night out, enjoy the cozy English vibes at the cash-only The Pub.
Budget: Capital-Saratoga
Enjoy the lively small-town comforts at The Century House in the hamlet of Latham, just far enough from the hustle and bustle of Albany, but still close enough for exploring New York’s capital city. The Federal-style boutique hotel beckons with its charming exterior, cozy pub-style restaurant, stroll-worthy nature trail, and rooms that are the perfect blend of historical-meets-modern. The romance package sets the mood with chocolate covered strawberries, champagne, and dinner for two, either in the restaurant or delivered to your room. In Albany, learn together on a museum crawl to the New York State Museum (free admission), Albany Institute of History & Art ($10 adults), and the USS Slater ($10 adults; reopens April 2024), or walk hand-in-hand soaking in the 19th-century brownstones, shops, galleries, cafes, and bars along Lark Street, the “Greenwich Village of Albany.” Feel like the star of your own rom-com ice skating at Empire State Plaza or strolling through Washington Park (pictured). For dinner, tour the world together as you take your taste buds on a global adventure from authentic Italian specialties at Grappa ‘72, to Mediterranean fare at Barcelona Restaurant, to American fusion dishes incorporating international influencers at The Copper Crow.
Mid-Range: Greater Niagara
Photo Courtesy of Red Coach Inn
Bask in the warm English country ambiance of the welcoming Tudor-style Red Coach Inn (pictured) that embodies Niagara Falls’ nickname of the “Honeymoon Capital of the World.” Overlooking the Upper Rapids, the inn delivers breathtaking views of the Falls and lets you up the romance factor with a special package of scattered rose petals in your room, bottle of champagne, chocolates, and intimate fireside dinner in the award-winning restaurant. From the inn, follow the path to Goat Island to take in the majestic scenery of Niagara Falls at the Cave of the Winds for up close viewing of this natural wonder or opt for a romantic evening stroll to see the rushing water lit aglow with hundreds of LED lights. Unwind with some wine along the New York Niagara Wine Trail or act like a couple of love birds at the Aquarium of Niagara, where you can book an encounter with a penguin (they say they choose a mate for life — how romantic!) Prime Steakhouse makes for the perfect spot for an unforgettable dinner with unbeatable views of the Falls.
Mid-Range: Hudson Valley
Credit: @bentley.potter.photography on Instagram
Feel like you’ve been transported back to historic Hudson’s maritime past at the Hudson Whaler Hotel. This 19th-century building is adorned with ornate woodwork, vintage Italian crystal chandeliers, and a detailed hand painted mural of the Hudson River. Sixteen suites provide relaxing comfort with soft, light-nautical tones of blues and whites along with fireplaces. You’ll also find something sweet upon check-in–a complimentary handmade chocolate whale by local chocolatier Vasilow’s Confectionery. Plan a day date with a long walk along the breathtaking grounds of the Olana State Historic Site (pictured), surrounding the historic estate of artist Frederic Edwin Church. As a bonus, stroll across the bridge to the Thomas Cole National Historic Site to savor the same views that inspired the cherished works of the Hudson River School artists. Hit up the flower cart before sitting down for a dinner with a Tuscan flair at Feast & Floret, or enjoy farm to table fare and a topnotch wine list at Swoon Kitchenbar.
Mid-Range: Catskills
Credit: @wylderhotelwind on Instagram
Embrace the timeless pleasures of the Catskills with a mountain escape with your love to Wylder Windham (pictured), tucked amid a natural paradise on 20-acres nestled along the Batavia Kill River. From Victorian buildings to historic lodges brimming with nostalgia, and rooms filled with the sounds of the flowing river and views of the stunning mountain landscape, it’s easy to reconnect with nature and each other. Turn the romance dial up to high with packages that come with wine, chocolate dipped strawberries, and a private session in a wood-fired sauna, or an intimate date night roasting marshmallows for s’mores and drinking wine by the campfire. Pick out something sweet for your sweetie at the bakery, like a slice of strawberry rhubarb pie or a chocolate croissant at Babblers. A couple who skis together stays together, so head on out to Windham Mountain Club for a fun day out on the slopes followed by a relaxing couples massage at the Alpine Spa. Top it all off sampling some crisp “Diamond Sparkling” wine at the scenic Vineyard at Windham; advanced reservations required.
Mid-Range: Central New York
Nestled in the heart of the famed baseball village of Cooperstown, the grand Landmark Inn (pictured) is a home run for couples seeking an elegant and peaceful retreat. This 1856 Italianate mansion is graced with the finest touches. Lounge in the chandeliered parlor, dine by the fireplace hearth, or wrap yourself in lush robes and linens as you relax in luxe rooms with ensuite baths, fireplaces, and private sun porches. Packages with wine, chocolate treats, lush bouquets, breakfast delivered to your room, and a picnic lunch will make your stay extra special. Don’t strike out, make sure you check out the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum or take a leisurely walk with views of Otsego Lake at Glimmerglass State Park (the summertime home of a renowned lakeside opera festival). Enjoy a romantic dinner at Toscana Italian Grill offering fine Italian cuisine with a twist or book a reservation for Brewery Ommegang’s Winter Beer Dinners at the Tap House (January 19, February 14, and March 15).
Mid-Range: Thousand Islands-Seaway
Courtesy of Taste 1000 Islands
Live out your happily ever after at the homey yet elegant Queen Anne Victorian-style McKinley House Bed & Breakfast in the walkable riverfront village of Clayton. Restored to its original grandness, the curved front porch beckons with its inviting wicker chairs while the cozy reading room welcomes you to read books by the fire. Located just one block from the St. Lawrence River, you’re in the prime position to take in a romantic sunset with a glass of fine wine from the local Coyote Moon Vineyards (pictured) or Thousand Islands Winery. Learn the history of this one-time summer retreat to the rich and powerful at the Thousand Islands Museum, catch a show at the historic Clayton Opera House, and have an unforgettable meal with stunning views of the river at the Seaway Grille, located in the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel.
Luxury: Long Island
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Treat your love like royalty with a grand Gilded Age getaway to Oheka Castle (pictured) in Huntington on Long Island’s storied Gold Coast. The French-style chateau will let you relive the Roaring 20s with rich and sophisticated suites that pay tribute to Gatsby, Carnegie, and the Olmsted Brothers. Turn your romantic escape into an opulent affair with packages that define the meaning of luxury. Spoil your sweetheart with the “Ultimate Romantic Evening Package For Two” ($15,000) that goes over the top with limo and white glove butler service, exclusive use of the ballroom with a private dance lesson, a seven-course gourmet dinner, Dom Perignon, a string quartet, red roses, and an in-room massage and breakfast. Explore more of the Gold Coast with a visit to President Theodore Roosevelt’s family home at Sagamore Hill and take a mansion tour, catch a laser light show, and go stargazing at the Vanderbilt Museum & Reichert Planetarium. Indulge in an unforgettable fine dining experience at Blackstone Steakhouse, with prime cuts, fresh seafood flown in from Hawaii and Holland, and creative homemade desserts.
Luxury: New York City
Get ready to experience unparalleled splendor and the glamor of a bygone era from the moment you step through the gilded gates of Midtown Manhattan’s elegant Lotte New York Palace (pictured). Timeless elegance meets modern-day luxury in well-appointed rooms and suites featuring marble bathrooms and spectacular views of the urban oasis including St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Rockefeller Center. Their Royal Wellness package includes breakfast in bed with a late checkout to give you extra time to indulge in the hotel’s restaurants and experience total wellness at America’s first ila Spa. If the way to your partner’s heart is through their stomach, New York City is home to luxurious dining that you’ll be talking about for years to come. Reserve a wine and truffle dinner with rare vintages and delicious plant-based menu at Eleven Madison Park, go on an intimate feast for the senses with an omakase dinner at Sushi Noz with ingredients imported straight from the Toyosu Market in Tokyo, or try hotspot Tatiana by Chef Kwame Onwuachi in Lincoln Center, as this “Top Chef” contestant’s restaurant reflects the city’s diverse gastronomic influences and his culinary heritage. Get an unforgettable glimpse of the city at sunrise from the top of the Empire State Building, go on a private shopping spree at Bergdorf Goodman, or take to the skies with HeliNY for a deluxe helicopter tour of the city.
Luxury: Adirondacks
Experience rustic elegance and lakeside living at Fern Lodge (pictured) in Chestertown where views of the majestic Adirondack Mountains and Friends Lake are sure to take your breath away. This luxurious lodge was made for couples with five intimate rooms boasting stone fireplaces, two-person deep soaking Jacuzzi tubs, and even some with porches to take in the surrounding natural beauty. Enjoy late afternoon hors d’oeuvres and wine fireside in the lodge’s Great Room or an evening of s’mores by the lakeside fire pit. Romance packages with a seasonal bouquet, wine, chocolate truffles, and full-course breakfast help complete your stay. Take a romantic horse-drawn sleigh ride with Circle B Ranch or if you’re looking for a little more action, venture out for some downhill skiing at Gore Mountain. Experience fine dining at its best in nearby Lake George at Shepards at Erlowest, where outdoor private heated igloos provide a unique intimate dinner setting with views of the lake and mountains.
Luxury: Finger Lakes
Credit: @mirbeauinnspa on Instagram
Take time to savor the moment and each other with a relaxing spa retreat to Mirbeau Inn & Spa (pictured) in Skaneateles. Step into your room to feel the warm embrace of the crackling fireplace and experience the classic comforts of the gracious French manor house and cozy cottages nestled amid beautiful gardens and ponds that look like a Monet painting come to life. Elevate your stay with a romance package including dinner at the casually elegant Bistro & Wine Bar, and of course a signature massage. Hold hands as you explore the quaint, tree-lined streets and 19th century homes of the storybook village of Skaneateles, filled with antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Enjoy an intimate wine tasting at Anyela's Vineyards on a hillside high above the pristine Skaneateles Lake and fine dining at Joelle’s French Bistro, The Krebs, or Rosalie’s Cucina.
Edited by Marta Zielinska
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