10 Relaxing Solo Weekend Getaways from NYC
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Feeling like you need a break from the hustle and bustle of New York City? You’re not alone! Luckily, there are plenty of great solo weekend getaways from NYC that will help you relax, reset, and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a beach escape, a nature retreat, or a solo adventure, we’ve got you covered.
While some places on this list are easier to get to by car, others are accessible by train or bus. And, if you’re worried about being bored while traveling solo, don’t be! There are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy, no matter where you go.
Here are our top picks for solo weekend getaways from NYC:
1. Montauk, NY
If you’re looking for a beach escape, Montauk is the perfect place to go. This charming seaside town is located at the easternmost tip of Long Island and is known for its beautiful beaches, amazing seafood, and laid-back vibe. While it’s definitely a popular spot in the summertime, it’s also a great place to visit in the off-season when you can enjoy its quieter atmosphere.
How to Get There from NYC: Montauk is located about 120 miles from NYC, so the best way to get there is by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. There is also a train that goes from NYC’s Penn Station to Montauk, but it takes about 5 hours, so we recommend driving if you can.
2. The Catskills
Just two hours from the city, the Catskills offer a welcome respite from the concrete jungle. With its towering mountains and pristine lakes, the region is perfect for hiking, camping, and fishing. In addition, the area is home to a number of charming towns and villages, making it easy to find a quiet place to relax and recharge.
It offers a scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC. The area is also home to several wineries and breweries.
How to Get There from NYC: The Catskills are located about 3 hours from NYC, so driving is the best option. To get there by train or bus, takes about 2-3 hours.
Omino is a great resource for booking buses, trains, and airport transfers.
3. Newport, RI
If you’re looking for a chic weekend getaway, Newport is the perfect spot. This historic seaside town is known for its beautiful mansions, great shopping, and wonderful restaurants. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely weekend of exploring and indulging.
How to Get There from NYC: Newport is located about 3 hours from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. You can also take the train from NYC’s Penn Station, which takes about 4 hours.
4. Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley is a great option for those looking to escape the city. The region is home to a number of state parks and historic sites, as well as numerous wineries and breweries.
It is a charming small town located just a few hours north of NYC. This quaint community is home to lovely antique shops, great restaurants, and a lively art scene. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed weekend of strolling and exploring.
How to Get There from NYC: Hudson is located about 2 hours from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. You can also take the Amtrak train from NYC’s Penn Station which also takes about 2-3 hours.
5. Bear Mountain, NY
Bear Mountain is a great option for those who want to escape the city but still be close to all the action. This small town is located just an hour from NYC and is home to a number of hiking trails, museums, and historic sites.
In addition, Bear Mountain State Park offers stunning views of the Hudson River and is perfect for a day of hiking or picnicking.
How to Get There from NYC: Bear Mountain is located about 1 hour from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the day or take the Metro-North train from Grand Central Station.
6. Lake Placid, NY
Lake Placid is a popular destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of NYC. This beautiful town is located in the Adirondack Mountains and is known for its stunning scenery, great hiking trails, and Olympic history.
In addition, the town offers a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a lively nightlife scene.
How to Get There from NYC: Lake Placid is located about 5 hours from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. You can also take the Amtrak train from NYC’s Penn Station, which takes about 6 hours.
7. Saratoga Springs, NY
Nestled in the foothills of the Adirondacks, Saratoga Springs is a picturesque town that has long been a popular destination for New Yorkers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Whether you’re interested in soaking in the mineral springs, exploring the local history, or simply taking in the natural beauty of the area, Saratoga Springs is an ideal destination for a solo weekend getaway.
And with a lovely downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and museums, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay. If you’re looking to relax and rejuvenate, Saratoga Springs is the perfect place to do it.
How to Get There from NYC: Saratoga Springs is located about 3 hours from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. You can also take the Amtrak train from NYC’s Penn Station, which takes about 4-5 hours.
8. The Poconos, PA
The Poconos are a great option for those looking for a solo getaway. This scenic region is known for its beautiful lakes, ski resorts, and quaint small towns.
In addition, the Poconos offer a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
How to Get There from NYC: The Poconos are located about 2 hours from NYC by car. If you don’t have your own, you can always rent one for the weekend. You can also take the NJ Transit bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal, which takes about 2-3 hours.
9. The Berkshires, MA
If you’re looking for a solo weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of NYC, look no further than the Berkshires. This region of Massachusetts is known for its unspoiled forests, winding rivers, and quaint villages.
Whether you’re hiking in the woods, canoeing down a river, or simply strolling through a charming town, you’ll definitely feel like you’ve left the city behind.
The Berkshires are also home to several world-class museums, including the Berkshire Museum and the Norman Rockwell Museum. And if you’re looking for a place to stay, there are plenty of cozy bed and breakfasts to choose from.
So if you’re in need of a little R&R, a solo weekend getaway to the Berkshires is just what the doctor ordered.
How to Get There from NYC: You can drive to the Berkshires from NYC in about 4 hours. Or, you can take the train or bus, which takes about 5-6 hours.
10. Cape Cod, MA
ust a few hours from New York City by car or train, Cape Cod is the perfect destination for a solo weekend getaway.
The Cape offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and birdwatching, as well as plenty of chances to relax on the beach or explore quaint seaside towns.
Visitors can also enjoy seafood specialties like lobster rolls and clam chowder, and don’t forget to sample some of the local wines and craft beers. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or an adventurous weekend in nature, Cape Cod is sure to please you.
How to Get There From NYC: You can drive to Cape Cod from NYC in about 4 hours. There are no direct rail or bus connections between New York City and any part of Cape Cod. Rail or bus travel from Providence, Rhode Island to the Cape is possible.
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Final Thoughts
These are just a few of the many great solo weekend getaway destinations from NYC. So whether you’re looking to relax, enjoy some beach time, or simply explore a new town, there’s sure to be a destination on this list that’s perfect for you.