For all of New York City’s admirable qualities, its non-stop hustle and bustle can wear on even the most energetic city dwellers. If you’re looking for a brief reprieve from the noise in the Big Apple, the beautiful state of New York has many retreats close by. 

Learn more about the large, diverse state you live in by exploring some of its most charming towns and regions. Here are five great towns for weekend getaways from NYC.

1. Catskills

The Catskills is a budget-friendly attraction in the heart of New York’s Appalachian mountains, just a few hours away from the big city. With scenic views, various eateries, and plenty of lodging options, this spot is a perfect destination for all interests. 

You can hike the Overlook Mountain or Minnewaska State Park Reserve, or simply head to the town limits and admire the mountains as they loom over you.

You will find family-friendly restaurants and fine dining in Phoenicia, the town nestled within the Catskills, but transportation is tricky for first-time visitors. You can either catch a bus for $35 or rent a car for the day, though experienced travelers recommend the latter option. 

Once you arrive, you can stay at all kinds of cabins and cottages along with some unique hotels.

2. Hudson

Hudson rests on the east bank of its namesake river, about two and a half hours away from New York City. The former whaling port town is known for its historic buildings and blossoming food scene, with many destination eateries sprouting up around the area. 

It’s no surprise that New Yorkers consider Hudson and other towns like it around the Hudson Valley an ever-more-appealing location for vacation homes, especially considering buying and selling properties in the area is less cutthroat than in beachier locations.

What do you do on your weekend away? You can browse antique shops, art galleries, and local businesses downtown or explore the many nearby hiking trails. It has taken several nicknames, including the Un-Hamptons, New York’s Upstate Downtown, and Brooklyn North. 

As for where you should stay? Hudson offers many housing options for vacation rentals, as you can choose from several boutique hotels and local Airbnbs. There are also classic bed and breakfasts for a quaint and cozy stay.

3. Skaneateles

This village on the shores of Lake Skaneateles (pronounced “skinny atlas”) sits 30 minutes away from Syracuse and just over four hours from the Big Apple. You can get the traditional summer lake experience with scenic views and water sports, or find something more quiet and peaceful in the village.

East Genesee Street is effectively the town’s main street, dotted with small shops and restaurants of all varieties. New Yorkers call Skaneateles the “jewel of the Finger Lakes” for a reason: it has all the luxury and homely comforts you can ask for in a small town.

Well-off city dwellers like to retreat to Skaneateles and other nearby lake towns for summer retreats, so you can find beautiful vacation rentals of all shapes and sizes here.

4. Saratoga Springs

Saratoga Springs is a small town about three and a half hours due north of New York City and 40 minutes away from Albany. It has a similar historical appeal as Hudson, with Victorian architecture and remnants of the park-like woodlands that used to occupy much of pre-colonial America. The town takes its name from the bubbling springs that attract many visitors.

Saratoga Springs also has the perfect touch of modernity with multiple prominent tourist attractions, including the Saratoga Automobile Museum, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame, and the National Museum of Dance and Hall of Fame.

You can stay at a traditional hotel or rent a cabin. If you’re planning a romantic getaway, you might want to look at the Union Gables Inn, which has a fireplace in each room.

5. Ithaca, New 

Outsiders only know Ithaca as the home of Cornell University, but this town has a lot more to offer than Ivy Leaguers roaming the streets. While Cornell’s beautiful campus and historic buildings add a layer of charm and sophistication to the town, you should first visit the Ithaca Commons – a stretch of shops, eateries, museums, and other forms of entertainment.

Fortunately, navigating the small town is easy enough even without a car. Ithaca, largely due to its student population, uses public transportation at an impressive rate compared to other American municipalities. Visitors from NYC can look into the TCAT schedule to explore the village.

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