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A Weekend in York Itinerary: How to Spend 2 Days in York England

Last updated: October 30, 2023 . Written by Laurence Norah - Leave a Comment

The beautiful walled city of York, England is the perfect location for a weekend break. It’s easily accessible from most of the UK, there’s plenty to see and do, and it’s compact enough for walking around.

We’ve visited York many times, and in this guide we’re going to share with you how to spend the perfect weekend in York. From what to see and do, to where to stay to how to get around.

This guide can be used for any two-day trip to York of course, it doesn’t have to be over a weekend. You can also extend it easily for a longer stay, as there’s a lot to see both in the city and in the surrounding area!

Let’s get started with this York weekend itinerary.

Weekend in York Itinerary

Our weekend York itinerary has you visiting many of the main sights in the city. Of course, as with all our itineraries, it’s a starting point for you to plan from. So feel free to adjust it based on your interests and sightseeing pace.

We like to see a lot when we travel, but if you prefer a slower pace, just adjust the itinerary to see fewer things per day.

If you are visiting over a weekend, you can either arrive in York on the Saturday morning and depart on the Sunday evening, or extend your stay to arrive on the Friday evening and depart either on the Sunday or Monday. It’s up to you.

Day 1 in York

For your first day in York you’re going to learn about the history of the city, explore some of the medieval walls, and visit the UK’s largest railway museum.

Note that if you are arriving by train on your first day in the city, you might consider re-ordering this itinerary so you start in the railway museum as it’s next to the railway station. There are left luggage facilities just next to the railway station to save you carrying your bags.

For getting around, we have a section on getting around after the itinerary. York is very walkable, but you might also choose to take a Hop on Hop off bus. If you do the hop on hop off bus (included on the York City Pass ), you’ll likely want to set up your sightseeing so it follows the route of the bus.

• York Minster

The gorgeously Gothic York Minster is a highlight of a visit to the city, and the imposing construction is visible from around York.

Two large towers dominate the western side, with a large central tower in the middle. It’s actually the largest Gothic style cathedral in the UK (yes, it’s bigger than Westminster Abbey!), and the second largest in Europe.

A church has been in this location since at least 627 AD, however; the present building was largely built between the 13th and 15th centuries.

There is plenty to see if you visit inside the Minster, which we recommend you do. For example, there is a lovely chapter house, the beautiful Great East Window (the largest medieval stained glass window in the world), a tower you can climb, and there’s even a crypt you can visit.

A highlight has to be a trip up the tower. At 235ft, the Central Tower is the highest point in the city, meaning you get wonderful panoramic views of the city around you. It costs a bit more to climb the tower but we think it’s well worth it for the view. There are 275 steps to the top, and there’s no lift option.

York Minster is normally open every day except Tuesdays and there’s a fee to visit. At last check, you needed to book online or by phone in advance to visit due to COVID restrictions. You can see prices and opening hours on the website here . Entry is included on the York City Pass .

Expect to spend around 90 minutes here, although this will depend if you choose to climb the tower and how fit you are if so! From York Minster to the Yorkshire Museum it’s a 5 minute walk.

• Yorkshire Museum and Gardens

York was founded in 71AD, when a Roman fortress was built here. For a period of time, it was actually the capital of Roman Britannia, and over the years it’s been everything from a Roman garrison town, a Viking stronghold, a trading centre, a Victorian engineering hub and even a confectionary powerhouse!

That is a lot of history to learn about. For those of you who love learning about the history of an area, then a visit to the Yorkshire Museum is in order.

This is found in the York Museum Gardens, situated next to the River Ouse. The 19th century gardens have a number of interesting sights, including Roman ruins, an 11th century ruined abbey, a 14th century Hospitum, and a 19th century observatory. You can read more about the sights in the garden and opening hours here , and it’s well worth taking a bit of time to wander around before or after your museum visit. The gardens are free to visit.

Of course, the highlight is going to be the actual Yorkshire Museum . Here you’ll be able to learn about the history of the city, from prehistoric times through to the arrival of the Romans and Medieval times. There’s an entry fee to visit, and you can read more about opening times and prices here . It’s included on the York City Pass.

Medieval Wall Walk

One of my favourite free things to do in York is wander along the walls. These walls have surrounded the city since Roman times, although they’ve been restored and improved upon over the years. Today, the majority of the walls you can see and explore date from the 12th to the 14th century, with major restorations taking place in Victorian times.

The walls are the most complete set of city walls in the UK, encircling large parts of the city centre. You can walk along the top of them on the wall walk, which elevates you above the city streets and gives some lovely views across the city. If you were to follow the whole route, you’d be looking at around a 2 hour walk of around 2.6 miles.

Of course, you don’t have to do the whole route and there are many sections you can walk. If you are following this itinerary, from the Yorkshire Museum simply cross over the River Ouse and join the city wall trail to the south of the river. You can follow it around to Micklegate Bar, one of the medieval gateways in and out of the city. It was traditionally the gate that monarchs would use for entering York.

It is about a 15 minute walk from the Yorkshire Museum to Micklegate Bar via the city walls.

You can also go inside the gate at Micklegate Bar to visit an exhibition about the history of the city walls, and their evolution from Roman times to the present day. This is a new experience, opened in 2022, and it’s also included with the York City Pass .

There are a number of pubs, restaurants, and shops around Micklegate , so this can be a good place to have lunch or stop for coffee before heading to the next stop on the itinerary.

For those interested in religious history, The Bar Convent is located next to Micklegate and is the oldest living convent in England. It is a museum and living heritage center and you can visit the exhibition for a small fee (included as part of the York Pass). But there is also a cafe here that serves breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea Monday to Saturday. We visited here and found it really interesting.

From Micklegate Bar to the National Railway Museum is a 12 minute walk.

National Railway Museum

If you are into trains (and even if you’re not!) we can highly recommend a visit to the National Railway Museum in York. This free museum is found right next to York railway station.

The museum is the largest museum dedicated to all things rail in the UK. It’s home to some of the most significant locomotives in railway history, including the Mallard, which still holds the record for the fastest steam locomotive ever built. There are usually around 100 locomotives or rolling stock on display, which when we visited included a Japanese bullet train and a Eurostar train.

Having the museum in York makes a lot of sense from a historical standpoint. First, York was famous in the 19th century for the production of railway carriages. In addition, direct trains were running from York to London as early as 1840, and the railway essentially saved York from years of decline. York was firmly on the railway map, and mass tourism took off. Yes, people have been visiting York for the weekend for quite some time!

Note that if there is a particular train or object you are interested in seeing, you should definitely check their website to be sure it is on display. Sometimes trains or other items are sent on mobile exhibitions, or put in storage.

The National Railway Museum is free to visit although donations are greatly appreciated. There’s also a shop and cafe on site, as well as a number of paid ride attractions including a fun Mallard simulator and miniature train rides. Lots of fun here for the whole family!

We’d recommend spending a couple of hours here. You can see more, including opening times and days, on the official website here . You should also check to see if you need to book tickets in advance.

From the National Railway Museum to city cruises departure is around a 15 – 20 minute walk, depending on which cruise you take.

• River Cruise

By now you have probably spent enough time on your feet and would like a bit of a break. Well, a popular option for visitors to York is to take some form of boat cruise. These usually run from April through to the end of October.

These will take you up and down the River Ouse which runs right through the centre of the city, affording you a unique view of the city from the water. Most cruises feature live commentary, and they also often have drinks available for purchase.

There are a variety of boat cruise options in York, from self-drive boat hire  through to short excursions , amd sunset cruises .

They vary in duration from 45 minutes up to 2.5 hours. You can see all the options and book in advance here . Note that a city cruise option is included with the York City Pass .

If you’re visiting from November through to March, most of the boat cruises are not operational. There are however a number of bus tour options to consider.

Evening Ghost Tour / Shambles Walk

As the day starts to fade to night, it’s the perfect time to learn a bit more about the darker past of the city. York is well known for its ghost tours, and the authentic medieval streets around the Shambles are an amazing backdrop to these tales and stories.

Of course, you can explore the area around the Shambles on your own. However, the ghost tours are a lot of fun, led by entertaining costumed guides who are going to shock, thrill, and humour you.

The two tours we suggest you check out are this 90 minute tour or this 90 minute tour , both are led by costumed guides. Both tours have excellent reviews and have won awards.

Of course there are also other tours, including this one and this one . So you have no shortage of choice.

We also recommend you spend a bit of time walking the streets around the Shambles at night, as it is remarkably pretty and photogenic. The actual street with the name “Shambles” is our favourite, with the leaning houses that look like they are straight out of a Harry Potter film set .

Out of all the streets in the UK that have been said to look like they are Diagon Alley out of Harry Potter (we’ve been to all of them), this is the one that looks most like it.

If you’d prefer a bus tour rather than a walking tour, there is also an evening ghost bus tour you might consider.

That wraps up your first day in York! Time for some food and rest, before heading on to your second day!

Day 2 in York

For your second day in York you’re going to do some more sightseeing, learn about York’s Viking and Victorian history, and even try some chocolate. Then there’ll be time for a bit of retail therapy before you wrap up your weekend in York.

Again, everything on our list today is easily walkable, or on the York Hop on Hop off bus route. Let’s get going!

• York Castle Museum

Despite the name, the York Castle Museum is not in a castle, nor is the museum about a castle. It is built on the former site of York Castle, which was largely rebuilt as a prison in the 18th century. The only really obvious remnant of the castle is Clifford’s Tower, which is found on the hill opposite the York Castle Museum.

So, now that your expectations around the lack of a castle have been managed, you might be wondering what this is a museum of.

Well, in the early 20th century, a Yorkshire physician by the name of John Kirk decided to start collecting objects that he felt reflected the time, in an effort to capture a glimpse of life in late 19th century Yorkshire. His collection grew prodigiously, and in 1931 he asked if anyone would want to display it.

In 1934, his collection was purchased by the city, and in 1938 the York Castle Museum opened to display the objects. A highlight of the museum on opening, and still a highlight today, is the recreated late Victorian street known as Kirkgate. This was a first of its kind in the UK, and is still popular with visitors today.

There’s lots more to see in the museum, which is maze-like and sprawling, and not laid out in any particularly logical order that we could discern. Exhibits include information on the prison, the Great War of 1914-1918, the Swinging Sixties, and fashion over the last 400 years. There is also a Victorian mill that is sometimes open to visitors.

It’s a lot of fun with a lot to see and do, and you could easily spend 2 to 3 hours exploring. There’s a fee to visit, and you can see opening times and prices here . Also included on the York City Pass.

• Clifford’s Tower

Directly opposite from the York Castle Museum sitting atop a large mound is Clifford’s Tower . This was the keep of York’s original castle.

A keep has been in this location since the time of William the Conqueror in the 11th century, but the present stone version dates from the mid 13th century. It’s the only really visibly obvious surviving part of York Castle that you can visit.

The tower itself is largely a shell, with the impressive walls surrounding a courtyard. A highlight of a visit is to go up to the top of the walls, from where you get good views across the rooftops of York and York Minster.

Clifford’s Tower is operated by English Heritage and there’s a fee to visit, although it’s free for English heritage members. You can see opening times and prices here . It’s also normally included on the York City Pass .

Note when we got our photos of Clifford’s Tower it was in the middle of a renovation project. The tower is open as of April 2022, and now has an interior structure and a new roof deck from where you can appreciate the views!

From Clifford’s Tower to Jorvik Viking Centre it’s a 4 minute walk.

• Jorvik Viking Centre

In the 9th and 10th centuries, York and a large swathe of northern England was captured and ruled by the Vikings. They called the city Jórvík, and turned the city into an important centre of economy.

A fun way to learn about life in York during Viking times is to visit the popular Jorvik Viking Centre . This attraction consists of two parts.

First, there’s an ride which takes you through a reconstructed Viking village, where you’ll see many scenes of life in Viking times. This was created by the York Archaeological Trust, and based on excavations in the area. In addition, some of the mannequins are based on facial reconstruction technologies using skulls found from the time.

Following the informative and fun ride, there’s a museum area, which has many objects of interest and further explanations of life in Viking times. In addition, there are costumed staff who demonstrate crafts from the time, such as coin making.

A trip to Jorvik Viking Centre is definitely worth including on your visit to York, and it’s a very popular family attraction as well. Expect to spend around an hour to 90 minutes visiting. There’s an entry fee, and it’s also included on the York City Pass .

From the Jorvik Viking Centre to York Cocoa House is a 1 minute walk, and to York Chocolate Story it’s a 4 minute walk.

York Chocolate Story or York Cocoa Works

In the 19th century confectionary and cocoa making became major industries in York. The railway improved the ability to transport goods, and major producers like Rowntree’s produced their products in York. In fact, after the railways, cocoa manufacturers were the second largest employer in York at this time.

Chocolate is still very much an important part of life in the city. Nestlé’s UK confectionary business is based here, as is their global R&D centre for confectionary. Rowntree’s still make their iconic KitKat bar in York, over four million of them a day!

If you have a sweet tooth, or simply want to learn a bit more about the history of chocolate making in the city, then you have a couple of options. These are York’s Chocolate Story , or the York Cocoa Works . Both these locations feature shops where you can buy chocolate. However, more importantly, they also both an educational experience and you can do a tour at each for a fee.

York’s Chocolate Story takes you on a journey through the history of chocolate in York. You’ll learn about the people and companies that put York on the chocolate making map, as well as the process for how chocolate is made. You’ll also get to make your own chocolate and of course, eat some chocolate as you go!

York Cocoa Works focuses more on the chocolate product process. Whilst the tour does share the history of chocolate making in York, the experience is more about visiting a working chocolate factory and learning how chocolate is made from bean to bar. A variety of tours are available, with the standard tour included on the York City Pass .

So, which to choose? Well, if you’d like to get more into the history of chocolate in York, we’d probably recommend York’s Chocolate Story . If you want to learn more about chocolate making, flavours and so on, then we suggest the York Cocoa Works . Of course, you could also do both, although there is going to be some overlap!

If you have a York City Pass then the York Cocoa Works would probably make more sense as the tour is included.

From either of these attractions to the Shambles Market is less than five minutes walk.

Shambles Shopping

We’re going to finish up your last day in York with a bit of shopping in the Shambles. As well as lots of independent retailers in this area, you’ll also find the Shambles Market itself. This historic market has over 70 stalls to choose from, with everything from arts and crafts to clothes and food available to buy.

We’re pretty sure you’ll find something to buy in the Shambles Market and shopping area, be it a souvenir of your time in York or a gift for someone else. If you’re not into shopping, you’ll also find cafes and bars throughout, and the lovely medieval streets are well worth wandering around anyway.

If you are looking for something to do in the evening after dinner, there are of course a number of bars, clubs, and cinemas. But you could also check out what is playing at York’s performing arts venues, such as the York Theatre Royal , Joseph Rowentree Theatre , and Grand Opera House , as there is often theater shows, operas, concerts, pantomimes, etc.

York Weekend Itinerary Summary

Here’s a quick overview of this 2 day York itinerary.

• Day 1 – York Minster, Yorkshire Museum and Gardens, Medieval Wall Walk, National Railway Museum, River Cruise, Evening Ghost Tour / Shambles Walk
• Day 2 – York Castle Museum, Clifford’s Tower, Jorvik Viking Centre, York Cocoa Works, Shambles Shopping

Of course, there’s plenty more to see and do in York, so you could extend this itinerary to more days or swap some of these sights with others to suit your interests and time.

Map of 2 Day York Itinerary

Attractions Near York

If you’re planning on spending a bit more time in York, there is of course many more things to do in central York. But there is also a lot to do around York. Many of these attractions will definitely be easier to visit with a car.

• Castle Howard – one of the UK’s most impressive stately homes is just eight miles outside of York
• Harewood House – another spectacular country house, around 20 miles from York
• Yorkshire Dales – gorgeous countryside and plentiful walks can be found in this National Park,
• Harry Potter Filming Locations – there are two Harry Potter filming locations within 90 minutes drive of York. See our guide to find out which ones!
• Wentworth Woodhouse – one of the largest stately homes you can visit is around an hour from York. See our complete guide to visiting for more!

Of course, there’s plenty more to do in the area around York, but this should give you some ideas for what to see and do!

Where to Stay in York

York has a wide range of accommodation options ranging from hostels and apartments through to high end hotels, and everything in between.

Our recommendation for York is definitely to stay near to the centre so you are within easy walking distance of all the sights, restaurants and attractions. We’ve put together some recommendations for York across all budgets. These are approximately ordered by price, however do check for your dates as prices vary.

• Astor York Hostel – if you’re looking for a hostel, this is one of the best options in York. Set in a grade II listed building, the property features both shared and private accommodation. There’s also an on-site bar as well as kitchen, dining and lounge areas. It’s 15 minutes walk from the train station and 20 minutes to most city attractions.
• Gillygate Guesthouse – This very well reviewed and popular 4* guesthouse is found just 3 minutes walk from York Minster. Rooms are en-suite and a good value full English breakfast is available.
• The Bar Convent – how about staying in a working convent during your time in York? This quiet location features private and shared accommodation in an actual convent, which is also some to a fascinating living heritage centre which is well worth visiting. Breakfast is included, and it’s 15 minutes walk to the main sights, and only five minutes from the train station.
• Roomzzz York City – just to the south of the city centre, around a 15 minute walk from most attractions, this is a well reviewed aparthotel option. En-suite rooms have kitchenettes.
• 23 St Mary’s – we stayed at this luxury guesthouse on a recent visit to York and loved it. It was just 15 minutes walk from most attractions, and the rooms were wonderfully spacious with luxury amenities.
• The Grand – this five star hotel is found in York’s former railway headquarters, so as you might imagine it’s very close to the railway station. Rooms are spacious and en-suite, there’s on-site dining and a bar, as well as a spa and pool. If you’re looking for luxury in York, this is an excellent option, and you can get some great deals depending on when you stay as well.

If you’re looking for an apartment, we recommend the Plum Guide . They offer a selection of curated properties that have to meet a high standard to be listed, and we’ve always had a positive experience when we’ve stayed with them. See their listings for York here .

How to Get to York

York is a well-connected city which is easy get to from around the UK.

First, you can of course reach York by car. If you opt for this option, make sure to check the parking options at the hotel you choose, as parking can be tricky to come by. If the hotel doesn’t have parking, you might need to take advantage of the park and ride options into the city. Once you’re in York, you are unlikely to need a car.

York is around a 4-hour drive from London, 90 minutes from Manchester , 45 minutes from Leeds and four hours from Edinburgh.

Another excellent option for reaching York is to take a train. York is on the east coast mainline, with fast train services linking it with the rest of the country. London is just under 2 hours away by train, and Edinburgh is around 2.5 hours by train from York.

You can check train times and book tickets online in advance here . With rail tickets, booking in advance is nearly always going to land you the best deals.

You can also travel to York by long-distance bus, although this will take a bit longer and so might not be suitable for a weekend trip. From London to York is between 6 and 7 hours by coach for example. You can check times and prices on National Express here and Megabus here .

York doesn’t have an airport. If you want to fly to York, the closest airport is Leeds Bradford Airport, which is around 30 miles away. This offers domestic and some international flight connections.

How to Get Around York

York has a compact city centre which is very easy to get around on foot. Most attractions are within 20 minutes’ walk of each other in the city centre, so getting around on foot is usually our preferred option.

Of course, there are other options for getting around the city centre, including public buses and taxis. iTravel York is an excellent resource for route planning, with everything from walking maps to cycle maps to information on parking.

Another good option for getting around the attractions in York, as well as learning about the sights, is to take a hop on hop off bus tour. You can buy tickets for these individually here , and there are also Hop on Hop off bus tours included as part of the  York City Pass .

York Sightseeing Passes

When we visit a city, we always check if there’s some kind of sightseeing pass that includes the attractions we want to visit. If so, we will invest in the pass if it’s going to save us money, which is often the case.

For York, the only pass available that we were able to find is the York City Pass . This includes more than 40 attractions and activities in the city and beyond, as well as some discounts and even some food. The pass is available for one to six days.

To decide if a pass like this will save you money you need to look at the attractions you plan to visit, the costs of those, and then compare the total cost to the pass cost.

For our itinerary for example, the following attractions are currently covered by the York City pass. This covers nearly every attraction and activity we recommend (note that inclusions can change, see full list of attractions here ):

• City Walls Experience
• Bar Convent Museum (optional)
• Railway Museum Road Train
• York Cocoa Works
• 24 hour sightseeing bus ticket (optional)

If you paid individual adult entry to all these attractions, it would cost around £112.

If you did all the attractions but skipped the Sightseeing bus, you’re looking at around £96.

The pass also includes lots of other attractions as well.

A two-day York City pass costs £75 as of April 2023, although it can sometimes be found at a discount. So you are looking at good savings if you plan to visit a number of attractions. It’s also available for longer and shorter durations, as well as in a child version.

We recommend checking what the pass includes and comparing the inclusions to what you plan to visit. Then you can decide if the York City Pass is good value for your trip.

You can buy the York City Pass on the official website for the pass here .

In addition, you can sometimes get the York City Pass with a discount. We recommend comparing the price on Tiqets here , GetYourGuide here and the official website here to see if there are any offers.

Further Reading

That’s it for our guide to spending two days in York, perhaps over a weekend or perhaps not. We hope you found it useful. Before you go, we wanted to share a few of our other guides to help you plan your trip to York as well as the rest of the UK, as well as some third party resources we think you’ll find useful.

• For wider UK trip planning, we have suggested  one week  and  two week UK itineraries
• York is close to Manchester, check out our guide to things to do in Manchester here .
• If you’re driving in the UK for the first time, check out my  tips for driving in the UK  for some advice. We also have a  guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK .
• We have guides to many other cities in England. See our guide to things to do in Stratford upon Avon ,   things to do in Bristol ,   things to do in Portsmouth , tips on Visiting Oxford on a Day Trip , and things to do in Cambridge
• If you’re heading to Scotland, check out our  2 day Edinburgh itinerary , our  Glasgow and Loch Lomond itinerary , our guide to the  best day trips from Glasgow , our guide to  things to do in Edinburgh , our  itinerary for Skye and the Highlands , our guide to the  best day trips from Aberdeen , and our guide to the best  day trips from Edinburgh  to get you started. We also have a guide to getting from  London to Edinburgh .
• We have a guide to  10 of the best Stately Homes in England

And that’s it! Have you ever visited York? Do you have anything you’d add to the above? Just let us know in the comments below!

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Short Breaks in York

Explore the fascinating walled city of York, steeped in history and offering an exciting experience for all.

Immerse yourself in the city’s vast history and explore the varied landmarks and attractions. Discover the Gothic heritage of York Minster and climb the central tower to reach York’s highest point, experience stunning views as you explore Clifford’s Tower, the largest building of York Castle still remaining today, and trail the medieval City Walls that have protected York for nearly 2000 years.

Wander along scenic, medieval streets bursting with character and discover where writers were once inspired, including The Shambles, a street said to be the inspiration for JK Rowling’s famous Diagon Alley. As you take in the sights, stop off for a bite to eat at a quaint pub or the famous Betty’s Café Tea Rooms, where an afternoon tea with delicate sandwiches and freshly baked scones await you.

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A weekend in York: A 48-hour itinerary

Posted on Last updated: January 24, 2020

You could say that York was my first ever ‘solo’ trip – it was the first place I ever visited without my parents on a school trip when I was 10. Since then I’ve been back again and again, and have found different things to love with each visit. With influences from the Romans, Vikings, Normans, Tudors and Victorians, York is a snapshot of British history in one city. But there’s a lot more to York besides its history – cobbled lanes, over 30 museums and attractions, interesting little shops, tea rooms and cosy pubs. All of which help make it one of my favourite UK city break destinations. So here’s my 48-hour itinerary for the perfect weekend in York.

Read more: 10 Great British weekend break ideas

How to spend a weekend in York

The remains of York’s Abbey

Friday evening

Check in to Marmadukes Town House Hotel , a Victorian townhouse in the leafy area of Bootham, about 10 minutes’ walk from the centre of York. This former gentleman’s residence turned hotel is full of character with antique furniture, and some of the 21 bedrooms come with four-poster beds and roll-top baths. It’s all very dimly lit and romantic, with a bar and couple of cosy lounges downstairs. Standard double rooms start from £79 a night.

You don’t need to go far for dinner as the hotel’s Park Restaurant is one of the best in York. Their seven-course tasting menu (£65 per person without wine) is served over a few hours and portions aren’t huge so you don’t end up stuffed. You’re left in the capable hands of chef Adam Jackson – though they’re happy to work around dietary restrictions – and the staff talk you through each course, which includes seasonal local produce like scallops and venison.

In front of York Minster

Saturday morning

You can’t miss the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of Saint Peter in York – better known as York Minster – as it towers over the city (entry £11.50 adults, £10.50 seniors, £9 students or free for children under 16 or with a York Pass ). It’s one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. But it’s known as a Minster as that was the title given to churches which were also monasteries.

Explore the building’s history in the undercroft and its stunning stained-glass windows above ground. And if you’re travelling with a partner stop for a kiss by the Heart of Yorkshire stained-glass window, as legend says if you do you’ll stay together forever. You can also climb up the 275 steps to the top of the bell tower for panoramic views across Yorkshire (£5 extra).

Inside the Castle Museum

Next head to one of my favourite museums – York Castle Museum (£10.90 adults, £4 for children 5–16 or free with a York Pass). The actual castle is long gone but instead the former prison buildings on the site have been converted into a museum. There’s a real weird and wonderful mixture of exhibits in the museum, with a recreated Victorian Street, stories of past prisoners in the old cells and galleries dedicated to toys, the 1960s and the First World War.

If you have time call in at Clifford’s Tower next door (£5.70 adults, £5.10 concessions, £3.40 children 5–17 or free with a York Pass). The tower is all that’s left of the 13th century castle and is built on the site of William the Conqueror’s original castle. It’s especially pretty in spring when the hill is covered in hoards of daffodils. Then stop for lunch at the Shambles Kitchen, a café famous for its pulled-pork sandwiches in the Shambles , York’s most photographed street with overhanging timber-framed buildings that date back as far as the 14th century.

Clifford’s Tower

Saturday afternoon

York is surrounded by the remains of its Roman city walls, with just over two miles of them still standing along with some of the original gateways, which are known as bars. Walking around them is a great way to get your bearings and discover tucked-away buildings and gardens. Head to the north for great views of the Minster and Treasurer’s House.

Or beer fans head south past the train station to York Brewery , the only brewery within the city walls. You can take a tour to learn about how their beer is made and try out four of their brews (tours at 12.30pm, 2pm, 3.30pm and 5pm, £8 adults or £6 concessions). Pop in for a pre-dinner drink at the Roman Bath, the only pub with a genuine Roman bathhouse in its basement.

York Brewery and the Roman Bath

The ruins were uncovered when the pub was renovated in the 1930s and you can go down to see the Roman caldarium (hot room) and learn more about the days when York was known as Eboracum (entry costs £3.50 adults, £2 children or is free with a York Pass). Then have an early dinner at Rustique , a French bistro with branches in Castelgate and Lendal which serves traditional dishes like confit de canard , moules marinières and crème brûlée .

York is reputed to be Europe’s most haunted city, and you can learn about the city’s spooky side on a guided walking tour. There are a lot of companies which run ghost tours, but slightly different is the Bloody Tour of York . Clad in Victorian dress, guide Mad Alice leads you through the twists and turns of the city’s medieval streets and snickleways (aka its hidden passageways), with 90 minutes of gruesome stories of torture, blood and gore taken from the city’s colourful history (departs 8pm from St William’s College by the Minster, £7 adults, £4 under-15s).

York city walls

Sunday morning

Don’t fill up too much at breakfast as you’ll need some room for the tasting samples at the Chocolate Story (£12.95 adults, £11.95 seniors/students, £10.50 children aged 4–15 or free with a York Pass). The 90-minute guided tour takes you through the history of chocolate as well as the story of York’s famous sweet-making families – Terry’s, Craven’s and Rowntree’s.

There’s lots of excellent chocolate trivia (did you know Terry’s originally made a chocolate lemon and a chocolate apple as well as a chocolate orange?) and the chance to try your hand at creating a chocolate lolly. Don’t miss the hot chocolate at the museum café afterwards, whether you’re more dark chocolate and chilli or white chocolate with marshmallows.

Work off your sugar coma with a walk down to the River Ouse for a boat trip from King’s Staith Landing or Lendal Bridge (daily at 12pm and 1.30pm with extra sailings in summer, £10 adults and £5.50 for children). A 45-minute trip takes you up and down the river with lots of facts about the city’s history. Or if you want to explore the river on your own, you can hire mini red motorboats in summer which seat up to eight (£30–£35 per hour, available April–October).

The River Ouse

Sunday afternoon

Finally head to York’s National Railway Museum . The world’s largest railway museum shows off the city’s long railway history in a huge train shed near York railway station (free entry). The museum has around 100 trains on display, with everything from Queen Victoria’s Royal Train and the world speed record-holding Mallard to an original Eurostar train and the only Japanese Shinkansen bullet train on display anywhere outside of Japan.

Then finish your weekend with an afternoon tea. Betty’s Café might be York’s most famous tea spot (with the queues to match), but for a truly classy afternoon tea experience visit the Countess of York . In its previous lives this train carriage transported cider in Hereford and was part of the luxurious Orient Express Northern Belle. Now it takes you back to 19th century teatime with a selection of sandwiches, tarts and cakes served on bone china with white linen and silver cutlery (tea served at 12pm, 2pm and 4pm, £25.50 per person).

The National Railway Museum

Have you visited York? Do you have any tips to add on what to see, do and eat?

Read more weekend guides

Thanks to Visit York ,  Marmadukes Town House Hotel and Cross Country Trains for hosting me. This article contains affiliate links, where I get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Friday 21st of May 2021

For same places that charge fee, do I have to buy the tickets in advance or can we purchase it on the day?

Thank you Anne

Kate Winney

Friday 23rd of August 2019

Loved this post so much! It was a great guide when I visited a few weeks ago. You inspired me to write a blog about my experience too. Really enjoying your blog.

Kate Winney x https://www.littlemisswinney.com/2019/08/york-city-guide-a-yorkshire-staycation.html

Monday 2nd of September 2019

Thanks – and great to hear you enjoyed your trip!

A Long Weekend in York – The Ultimate 3-4 Day York Itinerary

I recently spent 3.5 days in the incredible city of York. Here, I give you the full itinerary for my long weekend in York, as well as some extra ideas so you can make the trip truly your own.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

I first went to York on a school trip back when I was about 9 years old. A coach full of Year 5 children, we descended on the Jorvik Viking Centre as part of a history project. Even now, I have vivid memories of the strange smells that floated from the museum (more on that later!) and spending my trip money on some replica Roman coins from the gift shop (did anyone else love buying crystallised rocks and replica coins from museum gift shops?!).

York clearly made quite an impression on me and I’ve been back countless times since then. Most recently, we went when I was around 7 months pregnant (anyone looking for a perfect ‘babymoon’ destination? York is strong contender!) and spent 3 and a half days exploring every inch of this beautiful and intriguing city.

• 1.1 By Train
• 1.3 Getting to York by Car or Train – which is better?
• 2.1 Chocolate Lollipop Workshop
• 2.2 Dinner at The House of Trembling Madness
• 2.3 York Ghost Tour
• 3.1 Jorvik Viking Centre
• 3.2 York Minster
• 3.3 Lunch at The Brew & Brownie
• 3.4 Walk the City Walls
• 3.5 Time for a rest!
• 3.6 Dinner at Sotano
• 3.7 Walk The Shambles at night
• 4.1 Clifford’s Tower
• 4.2 Hire a Little Red Boat
• 4.3 Have a drink on the River Ouse
• 4.4 Stop for a snack
• 4.5 Wander the streets of York
• 4.6 Dinner at The Duke of York
• 5.1 Free Walking Tour
• 5.2 Railway Museum
• 5.3 Home Time & Final Thoughts on a Long Weekend in York
• 6 Where to Stay in York

How to get to York

We booked train tickets in advance and travelled to York in first class comfort from Liverpool Lime Street – a journey that takes around 2 and a half hours. Travelling first class meant that we were certain to get a seat with slightly more room to relax and refreshments such as tea, coffee, crisps, biscuit and soft drinks were included.

From York Station, it takes around 10 minutes to walk to the centre of York and to most of the hotels within the city walls.

If you don’t want to pay the extra for First Class, I’d still recommend reserving a seat so you don’t run the risk of having to stand for the duration of the journey. I’d also suggest nipping into a shop in the station before you leave to stock up on drinks and snacks in case you get peckish en route!

You can of course travel to York by car although be aware that most hotels within the city walls do not have car parking on site. Most hotels will direct you to one of the multi-story car parks within the city, but parking in one of these can set you back over £25 for a 24 hour period. If you do have to bring your car, you can save some money on parking by booking your space in advance.

Getting to York by Car or Train – which is better?

York is such a compact city and if you don’t plan to venture too far from the city walls, there really is no need for a car during your stay. A car may come in handy if you were thinking of planning some day trips outside of York, although even then, there are plenty of tour companies that can provide transport as part of a package. Although I enjoy a road trip and usually love the freedom that having my car provides, in the case of York, I would 100% recommend taking the train .

And without further ado, read on for the ultimate guide to a weekend in York !

A Long Weekend in York – Day One Itinerary

We arrived in York late afternoon and, after checking into The Judges Court Hotel , we decided to get straight back out there and start exploring!

Chocolate Lollipop Workshop

York is nicknamed the Chocolate City so a chocolate related activity is a must. We decided to book onto one of the chocolate workshops at The Cocoa House, an independent chocolate shop specialising in its own artisan chocolates. You can also check out The York Chocolate Story .

We got to the York Cocoa House early and spent some time browsing the shop, learning how chocolate is made. All the machinery used to take the cocoa from bean to bar is on display behind large glass windows and the friendly staff will gladly talk you through the process. After spending around 15 minutes in the shop, the temptation all got a bit too much for us and we ended up buying a bar of their special gin infused chocolate – yum!

The workshop itself was good fun, albeit very simple. We donned our stripy aprons and were given the option of making milk, chocolate or dark chocolate lollipops. Chocolate chips were melted with a hairdryer (yep, you read that correctly!) into a plastic food container ready to be mixed with your choice of ingredients to truly make the bar truly your own (I flavoured mine with violet and threw in a load of marshmallows because, yum). The bar was set and ready to take away with us at the end of the workshop.

The Cocoa House has a small café area at the back of the shop selling hot chocolate made with their own delicious chocolate, so of course we stayed to sample it!

Top Tip: Book in advance for this workshop. Despite being a weekday afternoon in March, the class was fully booked.

Website: York Cocoa House

Dinner at The House of Trembling Madness

I love quirky places with bags of character and that’s exactly what The House of Trembling Madness has in bucketloads. Hidden away on the top floor, you have to walk through a shop selling countless bottles of spirits from around the world to find the creaky stairs that lead you up to the small alehouse.

What this place lacks in size, it definitely makes up for in atmosphere. You may have to wait a short while for a table, but there’s plenty of unusual artefacts lining the walls to look at while you wait, and with a large selection of ales (there’re some tasty non alcoholic options) and gins, it might take you that long to decide what you want to drink! Food is simple and delicious – we went for a no fuss pie and mash – and despite it being busy, we didn’t wait too long for our food. Definitely one to visit, even if just for a drink.

Website: House of Trembling Madness

York Ghost Tour

Later that evening, we joined a ghost tour to help us walk off some of the pie and mash. There’s numerous ghost tours on offer but we opted for the Original Ghost Walk, which has apparently been chasing ghouls since 1973. At 8pm, we made our way to the meeting point at The Kings Arm Pub (the famous pub that floods should the water levels of the River Ouse get too high) to meet our guide for the evening.

The walk lasted around 2 hours and was just the right combination of entertaining, chilling and comical. Our guide clearly had a passion for live theatre and his recreation of the stories was so engaging that the two hours flew by.

Ghost walks are a great way to see the city and get your bearings, whilst learning about a different, more sinister side to York’s fascinating history. And at £5 per adult (£4 for children), it couldn’t be better value for money.

Top Tip: There’s quite a lot of standing around so make sure you wrap up warm! Comfortable shoes are a must too.

Website: The Original Ghost Walk of York

A Long Weekend in York – Day Two Itinerary

We rose early, and after setting ourselves up for the day with a tasty breakfast at The Perky Peacock , we made our way to the Jorvik Viking Centre for 10am.

Jorvik Viking Centre

We could smell the Jorvik Viking Centre long before we could see the staff dressed as Vikings standing outside. You see, the Jorvik is different to any other museum in that it tries to offer a fully immersive experience – smells and all!

We were lucky that there was no queue and we were able to walk straight inside without having to wait around. During busier periods (weekends and school holidays) I’m not sure we would have been so lucky so I would consider booking in advance or buying a York Pass .

Without a doubt, the best thing about this museum is the Time Cart – a ride back in time through Viking York. The Time Cart lasts around 30 minutes and is such a unique way of bringing history to life.

Afterwards, in the museum, there are plenty of archaeological finds to browse, many of which relate back to some of the characters you will have met during your time in Viking York. Staff are very approachable and knowledgeable and are happy to enter into discussions or answer any questions. It’s definitely a fun way to learn about the Viking era of York’s history!

We spent around 1.5 hours in The Jorvik Viking Centre.

York Minster

If you don’t have a York Pass , it’s fairly expensive to get into the York Minster but in my opinion, it’s definitely worth it. You can pay slightly extra on the day (it’s weather dependant so you can’t book tower tickets in advance) to go up into the tower which promises breath-taking views across the city, but being pregnant, staff advised me against taking the narrow stone, spiral staircase to the top. Never mind, there was still plenty to marvel at within the cathedral itself and down below in the Undercroft Museum.

If you’re interested in doing a walking tour, check out this option combining a guided walking tour of York with entrance to the York Minster and Undercroft Museum.

I’d definitely recommend joining one of the free tours of the Minster which run Monday – Saturday between 10am and 3pm. I was pleasantly surprised at how entertaining and interesting I found this tour and it really did make me appreciate the layers of both social and architectural history that the cathedral represents.

We spent around 2 hours exploring York Minster and the Undercroft Museum.

Website: York Minster

Lunch at The Brew & Brownie

All that culture had made us hungry so we stopped for a bite to eat at The Brew & Brownie. Good coffee and even better brownies (the clue’s in the name!) – this place immediately became a firm favourite.

Turns out I’m not alone in my adoration of The Brew & Brownie; this café gets seriously busy at peak times (lunchtime and weekends). You may end up queuing for a table but if you don’t have time to wait, you can always grab a takeaway and have a picnic in the park or eat on the go!

Website: Brew & Brownie

Walk the City Walls

Feeling fully refreshed, it was time for a brisk walk in the fresh air to help us beat the post lunchtime slump. Luckily for us, York has the perfect walking circuit up on the city walls!

The walk is just shy of 3.5k and takes around 2 hours in total but it’s so easy just do a section at a time if you don’t fancy doing it all at once. Sections of the wall are joined by four bars (gates) and it’s at these points that you can get on and off the wall. However, if you just fancy a rest, Gatehouse Coffee or The Perky Peacock can be found on the walls and are worth a visit.

Walking the walls in an absolute must. Not only is it completely incredible that you’re walking on layers of history spanning from around 71AD, but it’s also a great way to see the city from a higher vantage point. There’s an amazing view of York Minster along the section of the wall towards Mickelgate so get your camera at the ready!

Time for a rest!

All that fresh air had made us tired so we headed back to our hotel – The Judges Court – for a rest before dinner.

Dinner at Sotano

I adore tapas so of course I had to sample some of the tapas York had to offer. Thankfully, Sotano didn’t disappoint.

Tucked away off Little Stonegate, we climbed down the steps and found ourselves underground in a cosy, dimly lit area, rather like a cave. There’s not a huge number of tables so if you’re visiting at a weekend, booking is essential.

There’s a good selection of tapas dishes to choose from ranging from the usual chorizo and patatas bravas to some more unique seafood specials. We ordered a selection of about 6 to start with but couldn’t resist ordering more once we realised just how tasty it was! There’s a good selection of drinks too and the bar staff are more than happy to advise.

Sotano has a really warm and laid back atmosphere and the staff are friendly and helpful. It’s definitely one for your shortlist.

Website: Sotano, York

Walk The Shambles at night

I found it difficult to appreciate The Shambles during the day as it’s always teeming with tourists (of which I am also one – I can see the irony in this!). Visit in the evening however, when the shops are closed and you’ll likely get to see it in all its wonky glory without another person in sight!

I’m not sure if it’s because we’d been on the ghost tour and heard some sinister tales about ghostly sightings on The Shambles, but there’s definitely something deliciously eerie about being there when it’s so quiet. Take your time and soak in all that history. There really is nowhere else quite like it.

A Long Weekend in York – Day Three Itinerary

We got up early again ready to make the most of the day. Choosing to go for breakfast in Mannion and Co, we weren’t disappointed with our decision. The fresh bread is just so good it’s worth the trip alone. Stuffed full of eggs, spinach and the delicious bread, we were ready to seize the day!

Website: Mannion & Co

Clifford’s Tower

Clifford’s Tower is almost all that remains of York Castle and offers incredible views across the city of York. It’s looked after by English Heritage which means there is an entrance fee to pay unless you happen to be a member or have a York Pass .

As neither members of English Heritage or holders of a York Pass, we decided to just take advantage of the views from the steps of Clifford’s Tower without paying to enter inside. The views are still pretty good and you can get decent photos of the tower from the bottom. We spent around 20 minutes here before heading off to cruise the River Ouse in a little red boat.

Website: Clifford’s Tower

Hire a Little Red Boat

We decided to take advantage of the pleasant, sunny spring day and hire a self-drive little red boat and cruise up and down the River Ouse. The boats are incredibly easy to drive – just make sure you steer clear of the bigger cruise boats coming in the opposite direction!

We hired our boat for an hour and thoroughly enjoyed tootling along at a leisurely pace, peering in envy at the beautiful houses that line the river. On a nice day, this is such a lovely activity to do and it gives your feet a rest from walking everywhere. Make sure you lookout for the Two Hoots Ice Cream boat and stop off to buy a tasty treat!

Top Tip: In peak season, there can be a long wait for a little red boat. Beat the queues and book your boat in advance!

Have a drink on the River Ouse

There’s a few places to choose from, but we liked the look of Dyls with outdoor seating right on the edge of the river. We decided to make the most of the spring sunshine and take a seat outside, sipping our drinks and enjoying the view of the river.

It’s not just one for the sunny days either. Dyls is still worth a visit even if the weather isn’t so good. Housed within a little stone round house, the seating areas inside are cosy and intimate. If you’re looking for somewhere a little bit different then it’s definitely one you need to check out.

Website : Dyls, York

Stop for a snack

We’d eaten so much at breakfast that we hadn’t really felt the need to stop for lunch. That all changed however, when we heard about The York Roast Co and we knew we couldn’t possibly leave York without sampling its speciality!

The York Roast Co. speciality is an entire roast dinner, trimmings and all, served wrapped up in a giant Yorkshire Pudding. It’s more than a snack – it’s an entire meal in itself! I wasn’t all that hungry for a savoury snack but, not wanting to miss out, Steffan reluctantly gave me a few bites of his. If you like a roast dinner (and let’s face who doesn’t?!), you’ll definitely want to give it a try!

Website: The York Roast Co

One of the reasons I didn’t want an entire Yorkshire Pudding to myself was that I was saving myself for LICC – a very coincidental acronym for the Luxury Ice Cream Company.

I imagine this place is packed in the summer months so expect queues outside the door if you visit during the hot weather! The only problem? With over 150 ice cream flavours and a huge selection of toppings, it may take you a while to choose which one you want!

Website : LICC, York

Wander the streets of York

If there’s one thing you have to do in York, it’s to simply go for a wander. We spent a good hour in the afternoon just walking the streets, getting lost in the snickelways and gazing upwards to spot quirky features like the little red devil. It’s also a good time to visit some independent shops like the weird and wonderful Imaginarium on Blake Street or browse inside one of the second hand bookshops.

Top Tip: If you want more structure to your wanderings, you can collect a map for the York Cat Trail from York Glass on The Shambles . Or if it’s the snickelways you want to explore in detail, you can actually buy a book all about these intriguing passageways and where to find them.

Dinner at The Duke of York

After a couple of hours rest back at The Judges Court Hotel , we made our way out to have dinner at The Duke of York. We’d passed this restaurant so many times during our stay and had been intrigued by the way the old building so obviously leaned to one side!

Venturing inside the wonky structure, the décor inside wasn’t as quirky and unique as I’d been hoping given its outside appearance. Despite this, food was lovely and we tucked into a tasty three course meal to mark our last night in this incredible city.

Website: Duke of York

A Long Weekend in York – Day Four Itinerary

Despite having a train to catch later in the day, we were determined not to waste our last precious few hours in York and packed as much in as possible!

Free Walking Tour

There are a number of free (and paid for ) walking tours that you can do in York. If you choose a free one, be aware that they can vary greatly in the quality of the tour. Our tour lasted around 2 hours and covered all the main sights of York. Although our guide clearly knew her stuff, the way information was presented was a little rushed and difficult to follow in parts.

Top Tip: Consider doing a walking tour on your first day instead as it will help you get your bearings and provide you with a general overview of the city’s history. Unfortunately,  this wasn’t an option for us as this tour wasn’t running until our last day.

Railway Museum

We’d been to The Railway Museum before on a previous visit to York so we didn’t need a great deal of time here. If you’ve never been before, I would suggest allocating at least an hour to browse as it’s surprisingly fun – even for a non train enthusiast! It’s a good place to end your trip to York if you’re leaving on the train as the museum is right next to the railway station.

The main reason we were here however, was to experience a very special afternoon tea aboard the Countess of York, a lovingly restored old fashioned first class train carriage. It really was like entering into a bygone era; a throwback to the times when tea on trains was served in silver teapots and attentive waiters tended to your every need.

The Countess of York is stationed within The Railway Museum and, if you want to visit for afternoon tea, booking in advance is a must!

Home Time & Final Thoughts on a Long Weekend in York

That just about wraps up how we spent our time in York and it’s safe to say, we had an absolutely amazing time.

As you’ll know if you’ve read any of my other posts about York , there are many ways you could spend a few days in this incredible city. There really is so much to do that we could easily come back for another 3 days and spend our time doing completely different activities.

My top tip would be to plan in advance what you want to do in York so that you’re not wasting any valuable time in this incredible city deciding on your activities when you get here. Trust me when I say you’ll thank yourself for all that forward planning once you arrive!

Need some more inspiration to help you plan in advance? Click here for a complete guide to all the fun things to do in York!

Where to Stay in York

I like to stay away from large chain hotels and opt for somewhere a bit more personal. For example, I’m a sucker for anywhere shrouded in history or with a story to tell.

If you’re looking for some inspiration on places to stay in York, you can check out my round-up of the best quirky and unusual places to stay in York , which includes some great budget options too.

On our most recent trip to York, we stayed in The Judges Court Hotel (you can check prices here and here ). If you want to know how I found it, I wrote an honest review of my stay .

As for my preferred booking websites, I tend to check prices on both hotels.com and Expedia . It’s always worth checking the actual hotel website to see if they have any special offers on too!

Have you spent a weekend in York? What did you get up to? Let me know in the comments!

Hi! I’m Helen – proud Northerner and the founder of Venture Up North. Disclosing local secrets to inspire unique adventures, join me on my mission to make sure that Northern England is recognised for the truly wonderful place that it is.

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8 easy New York City escapes you can get to in three hours or less

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

There's nothing like leaving New York City to make you realize how much you appreciate it.

Let's face it: This city can be exhausting. For all of its magic and energy, it sure can leave you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed from time to time. Sometimes all it takes is a road trip to clear your head, relax and, let's be real, get some much-needed space.

Whether you're eyeing a road trip from the Big Apple after being cooped up in your apartment for the last few months or just looking for a low-stakes weekend trip, these spots will fit the bill pretty nicely. Better yet, they're only three hours or less away from the city by car and a great choice no matter the season.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Cornwall-on-Hudson, New York

Distance from New York City: 1.5 hours

What to do: This riverfront town boasts scenic views and Storm King Art Center, one of the biggest outdoor open-air museums in the country. It's only 50 miles outside of New York City and is home to more than 100 different sculptures and artworks installed along the rolling hills. It also features work from some of the world's most acclaimed and influential artists, including Maya Lin, Mark di Suvero and Zhang Huan.

If the weather allows it, the grounds are also perfect for a picnic. You can bring food or visit the café at the visitor's center.

The park also offers bike rentals and tram rides if you're looking for an efficient trip around it.

Once you've had your art fix, be sure to head to Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville. It's a 15-minute drive from Cornwall and claims to be the oldest winery in the United States, offering tastings and tours through its underground cellars for just $10.

Where to stay: There are a handful of charming boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area, including the Cromwell Manor Historic Inn, The Thayer Hotel and the IHG Army Hotels Five Star Inn (not an IHG property). Rates start at $190, $209 and $101, respectively.

Naturally, there are also a handful of Airbnb properties, including this jaw-dropping "Glass House" for just $229 a night.

Related: Tips for families using Airbnb

Beacon, New York

What to do: If you want a mix of the arts and the outdoors, Beacon is your spot.

Art lovers, in particular, will fall in love with Dia Beacon, an art gallery housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory. You'll find a permanent collection of works from the 1960s to the present and can easily spend hours combing through all of the exhibits.

After you've had your art fix, it's time for a little physical activity. The 2,000-foot Beacon Mountain is the highest peak in the Hudson Highlands and offers stunning views of the Hudson River, plus an overlook of the century-old ruins of an abandoned, burned down casino on the aptly named "Casino Trail." If you're feeling particularly adventurous, you'll also find a 250-foot-high, 72-step fire tower that offers great views of the river, the Catskills and, on a clear day, the New York City skyline.

Don't forget to check out Bannerman's Castle located on the small 6.5-acre Pollepel Island in the middle of the Hudson River. It's a picturesque castle originally used as a military surplus and while much of it is in ruins today, the foundation of the structure is still intact.

Where to stay: As Beacon is relatively close to Cornwall-on-Hudson, many of the aforementioned properties would be worth looking into, as well.

The Hamptons, New York

Distance from New York City: 2 to 2.5 hours

What to do: The Hamptons, technically a group of villages and towns — including East Hampton, Westhampton, Southampton, Bridgehampton and Sag Harbor — is arguably New York City's most premier weekend retreat. Wealthy New Yorkers are known to essentially camp out "Out East" for days, weeks or months at a time throughout the summer. While it only takes about two and a half hours without traffic, be prepared for quite a lot of it, especially on holiday weekends.

Related: Race to the Hamptons -- What's the best way to get there?

Deciding which "Hamptons" is right for you is an article in and of itself, but you really can't go wrong with any of them. During the day, you'll want to visit Wölffer Estate Winery, the docks in Sag Harbor, and, of course, soak up the sun either in your backyard or at one of the Hamptons' many beaches — that's what you're here for, after all.

There are so many fantastic restaurants out here, you might have a tough time deciding where to grab a bite to eat. We love Duryea's Lobster Deck, Nick & Toni's, Lunch, Candy Kitchen and Goldberg's Bagels, just to name a few. Save room for BuddhaBerry, Big Olaf's or Scoop du Jour for dessert. You'll thank us later.

Where to stay: While most people who "summer" in the Hamptons do have their own houses, there are a ton of Airbnbs available for rent in every corner, ranging from budget to luxe.

Hotels are definitely on the pricey end, but we're fans of Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa, East Hampton Art House and The Surf Lodge. Rates start at $460, $397 and $325, respectively.

Related: Where to stay in The Hamptons this summer

Fire Island, New York

Distance from New York City: 1 hour and 45 minutes

What to do: While you'll have to drive (or take the Long Island Rail Road) from New York City and then a ferry from Bay Shore, it's well worth the trek. When you get to Fire Island, you'll feel like you're in a different country. There aren't any cars here, and the entire island is made up of quintessential beach towns. Ocean Beach is no doubt the most popular town, with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops to keep you and your friends occupied for days. A stark contrast to The Hamptons' luxury vibe, Fire Island is for the more laid-back and casual types.

Enjoy seafood on the water at Island Mermaid, or grab a burger at Maguire's. Whatever you do, though, be sure to get a slice (or two) of pizza from Town Pizza with cold mozzarella cheese sprinkled on it. We promise it will be one of the best slices you'll ever have.

Where to stay: While accommodations are somewhat limited, your best option is to rent a house via Airbnb or VRBO. We like this one , which sleeps up to 11 people, for $650 per night. If you'd rather stay in a hotel, though, The Palms Hotel Fire Island is your best bet, with rates starting at $305 per night.

Catskills, New York

Distance from New York City: 2.5 hours

What to do: There's nothing like a little trip up to the countryside to get some fresh air to clear your head. The Catskills, a mountain range in upstate New York, has had a period of ups and downs but is undoubtedly making a comeback as of late. Whether Woodstock is on your radar or Bethel, where the actual Woodstock Festival took place, there are so many quaint towns to find a cabin to cozy up in.

The Catskills has a bunch of mouth-watering spots you'll want to keep in mind, such as Phoenicia Diner, Sweet Sue's, SushiMakio and Cucina.

Related: 6 things to do when you need a break from New York City

Where to stay: No matter your budget and style, there's something for you here. Our top picks are Scribner's Catskill Lodge (rates start at $204 per night) or Urban Cowboy Lodge (rates start at $345 per night).

Poconos, Pennsylvania

Distance from New York City: 2 hours

What to do: Similar to the Catskills, the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania are also a great summer hideout. Home to many of the country's sleepaway camps, get ready to nestle up in a quaint bed and breakfast, boutique hotel or Airbnb. Go tubing in the Delaware River at Skinners Falls, or enjoy a hike at Bushkill or Hickory Run Boulder Field.

As far as food goes, we like The Wheel, Mi Casa Restaurant and Peter's Europa House. And if you end up in a town in the middle of nowhere called Tyler Hill, be sure to stop at Dutton's Tyler Hill Diner and get a Louie Bagel. Trust us on this.

Where to stay: It doesn't get much better than The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley. It's a luxury retreat, complete with a spa and dining room. With rates starting at $738 a night, it's certainly not cheap, but you'll end up feeling relaxed and refreshed. If you want something more budget-friendly, the Inn at Jim Thorpe has rooms starting for just $117 a night.

New Hope, Pennsylvania

What to do: Nestled about halfway between New York City and Philadelphia, New Hope is the quintessential classic rural Pennsylvania town. Visit the Bucks County Children's Museum or take a stroll through Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve for some fresh air and nature. Catching a show at the Bucks County Playhouse is a must, too — be sure to grab a bite at Nektar Wine Bar across the street.

Related: Things to do in Philadelphia with kids

At TPG, we also love Black Bass Hotel and Restaurant in nearby Lumberville. In fact, it was the site of our 2018 holiday party. No trip to New Hope, though, is complete without a stop at Nina's Waffles & Ice Cream.

Just beyond the borders of New Hope, you'll find Easton and the famed "Crayola Experience." If you're feeling adventurous, Hersheypark is about a two-hour drive away from there, too. It's a trip your kids are sure to love.

Where to stay: We're fans of the aforementioned Black Bass Hotel, where rates start at $215 per night. You also can't go wrong with the Ghost Light Inn ($360), a luxury boutique hotel right on the water in New Hope, or the Logan Inn ($195), one of the oldest continuously run inns in the United States.

Berkshires, Massachusetts

Distance from New York City: 3 hours

What to do: The Berkshires are undoubtedly one of the most stunning destinations in the country. Ask anyone who's been here, and there's a reason their eyes light up when they talk about it.

Enjoy museums such as the Animagic Museum of Animation & Special Effects, Berkshire Botanical Garden and MASS MoCA, the largest contemporary art museum in the country.

Even if you're not staying there, you'll want to grab a bite at The Old Inn on the Green, a stagecoach stop from the 1700s turned refined and serene hotel. The restaurant is entirely lit by candles, proving it to be one of the most romantic spots in the Berkshires. We're also fans of Baba Louie's Sourdough Pizza and, of course, Alta Restaurant & Wine Bar. It's a favorite for a reason.

Where to stay: There are a handful of charming places to stay in the Berkshires, ranging from Airbnbs to hotels, resorts, inns, bed and breakfasts and more. Of course, you'll want to find an accommodation that fits your personal preferences, but we have some suggestions up our sleeve.

We also recommend Yankee Inn ($87) and Seven Hills Inn ($109) in Lenox, and the Courtyard Marriott (rates start at $105 per night at this Category 5 hotel where it costs from 30,000 to 40,000 points Marriott Bonvoy points per night for a redemption).

Related: The award traveler's guide to Marriott Bonvoy

Hyatt is also set to open the Miraval Berkshires this year.

Bottom line

There are so many great options for a quick weekend getaway from New York City that it's hard to pick just one — the good news, though, is that you don't have to. Since all of these destinations are only a few hours from the city, you can easily sprinkle them in throughout your summer. Many of them can be booked somewhat last minute, too, although you'll want to be mindful of hotel cancellation policies before you do commit.

Whether you're staying at a luxury hotel or quaint bed and breakfast, you'll also want to be sure to use a card that earns bonus points on travel and hotel purchases, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve® (3x) or Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (2x).

With additional reporting by Xander Zellner.

York Travel Guide (including essential travel tips, itinerary + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2022

Our York Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful of England’s cities. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to York!

PLAN YOUR TRIP TO YORK

Located in the county of Yorkshire York is a popular city for visitors from around the globe. With a historical legacy from the Romans and Vikings and medieval streets of cobblestones, this walled city is the perfect place for a weekend visit or to break the journey by train from London to Edinburgh .

If you are visiting York you will find everything you need to plan your trip in this guide plus information about the county of Yorkshire.

What you will find in this complete York Travel Guide

Map of York

Things to do in York (and Yorkshire)

Discover the best things to see and do in York with my guide to the city, itinerary suggestions plus guide to the best day trips from York.

THINGS TO DO IN YORK

YORKSHIRE TRAVEL GUIDE

BEST DAY TRIPS & TOURS FROM YORK

Places to visit in York include

York Minster

The Shambles

National Railway Museum

JORVIK Viking Centre

Clifford’s Tower

York City Walls

York Castle Museum

York’s Chocolate Story

Bettys Tea Rooms

Listen to our Podcast about visiting York

Accommodation in york.

BEST PLACES TO STAY IN YORK

Find more accommodation options in my Accommodation Guide for England.

How to get to York from London

York is easily accessible from London. If you are based in the capital there are a number of options to get to the city.

Option 1 – By car

York is located 200 miles to the north of London.

Plan at least 4 hours to drive between the 2 cities (this will vary depending on traffic but it can be a busy route). Other English cities you will pass along the way are Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield and Leeds.

Directions can be found here.

If you are planning a short day trip to York I recommend parking in one of the Park & Ride car parks and taking the free bus into the city.

Option 2: By train

York is easy to reach by train from any major city in the UK.

York train station is a 10 minute walk from the centre of the city.

The trip takes an average of 3 hours from London and 2 hours from Edinburgh

It is possible to take a direct train from London to York. Click here for train times and tickets.

Option 3: By bus

It is possible to take a bus from Victoria Coach Station to York. The journey takes approximately 6 hours.

This is the cheapest way to travel to York from London though so if you are on a budget this may be your best option. Click here for coach times and prices from National Express.

Read more – Complete transportation guide to the UK

Experiences, tickets and tours in York

With so many things to do and places to visit in York I recommend planning your itinerary and purchasing tours, tickets and experiences as soon as you can to avoid disappointment especially during the busy summer months.

A York city pass is a great option and includes entrance to 25 popular York attractions including the JORVIK Viking Centre, York Minster, York Castle Museum, York’s Chocolate Story. Click for more information about the York City Pass.

• River Ouse City Cruise – Spend a relaxing hour on the River Ouse and see the sights of York from a different perspective.
• York’s Chocolate Story: Guided Tour – Explore York’s chocolate history and learn about the origins of chocolate and about York’s founding confectionery families.
• York Minster and City Walking Tour – This 2-hour walking tour provides you with fantastic insights into the most historic and world-famous sites in York. Start with the Romans then explore the ‘Snickelways’ of York and complete your tour at the magical York Minster.

> Click here for more tickets and tours in York

Best Yorkshire day trips from York

York is the perfect base to explore the surrounding Yorkshire countryside, seaside towns along England’s eastern coast, areas of natural beauty and places of historical significance.

The Yorkshire Dales, the coastal town of Whitby, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Saltaire, Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden are all easy day trips from York.

If you are considering hiring a car and taking a day trip from York these are my top 5 destinations to consider:

• Castle Howard
• Fountains Abbey and Studley Royal Water Garden

Read more: 10 best places to visit in Yorkshire

If you prefer to join an organised day trip from York these are just some of the destinations you can explore. *

(*Find more suggestions in my article which focuses on ALL the best day trips and tours from York)

• The Yorkshire Dales day tour from York
• The Bronte’s Parsonage Tour
• Steam train, Whitby and North Yorkshire Moors

Where to eat in York

There are many wonderful teahouses, cafes, gastropubs and restaurants in York.

Betty’s Tea Rooms

No visit to York is complete without a visit to Bettys Tea Rooms. Open since 1936 the beautiful interiors are inspired by the Queen Mary liner.

Visit for afternoon tea and sample the delights of Bettys for yourself.

Where – 6-8 St. Helen’s Square York YO1 8QP

Shambles Market

Enjoy York’s growing street food scene at the Shambles Market. There are plenty of options to suit all tastes including Indian, Thai, Mexican.

Don’t miss the burritos from Smokehouse which are priced from just £6.50.

Where – The Shambles Market, 5 Silver St, York YO1 8RY

Tips for visiting York & Yorkshire

• If you want to see the highlights of York consider joining this best of York guided walking tour or take the hop-on hop-off bus around the city.
• If York is just one of the places you wish to visit in Yorkshire don’t underestimate the size of the county! It is England’s largest county and is roughly half the size of Belgium. It can be divided into 4 smaller areas – North Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, East Yorkshire and South Yorkshire.
• There are are some large cities in Yorkshire such as York, Leeds, Sheffield, Bradford and Ripon but also lots of charming towns and villages too.
• The Yorkshire Dales National Park covers thousands of square miles (in fact most of the county) and includes moors, valleys, hills, waterfalls and villages within its boundaries.
• There are numerous hiking trails in the park including the Ingleton Waterfalls Trail, Yorkshire Three Peaks and Malham Cove and Gordale Scar. If you are planning a hike ensure you prepare thoroughly.
• There are two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty in North Yorkshire which are the Howardian Hills and Nidderdale.
• Our guide to 19 of the best day trips in Yorkshire has lots of great ideas too.

Tips for driving in Yorkshire

• If you are planning to hire a car and drive in Yorkshire it is important to pick the right rental car. In rural areas the roads may be single lane with no central line so don’t choose a large SUV or saloon car if there are only 2 of you.
• If you wish to stop to admire the views ensure it is safe to do so.
• In winter the weather conditions can change rapidly and snow can often make the roads impassable. There may also be no mobile signal in more isolated spots so ensure you share your travel plans before setting out.
• If you prefer to avoid driving there are a number of tours which you can join to enjoy the sights of the Yorkshire Dales.
• While there are 15 public car parks available around the city of York I recommend accessing one of the 6 Park & Ride services which allow you to park for free in a secure car park and complete your journey into the city by bus. You can find out more about this scheme here .

Books to read about York

More uk travel guides.

• 10 Places to visit in Yorkshire
• Things to do in Whitby
• Peak District Travel Guide
• Chester Travel Guide
• Liverpool Travel Guide
• Durham Travel Guide

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.

• European City Breaks
• Beach Holidays
• UK City Breaks
• Holiday Extras
• Gift Finder

Weekend Breaks in York

Easily one of our most popular getaway destinations, our York weekend breaks offer a great deal to see and do. Popular with people of all ages; fall in love with York’s impressive architecture, historic landmarks, fabulous shopping and fine dining. From luxury retreats to budget accommodation, our wide range of York breaks and hotels in York mean that there’s something to suit everyone.

Weekend Breaks in York Deals

Yorkshire Escape - 2-3 Nights & Breakfast For 2

York Spa Break For 2 – Kilnwick Percy Resort Stay, Breakfast, Prosecco & Spa Access

York Stay for 2: Winter Wine & Dine - Award Winning Elmbank Hotel

Luxury York Stay: Award-Winning Hotel & Prosecco For 2

A York B&B Stay for Two- Breakfast, Prosecco and Afternoon Tea Upgrade!

Related weekend breaks.

Weekend Breaks in Harrogate

Weekend Breaks in Lake District

Weekend Breaks in Chester

Weekend Breaks in Yorkshire

Weekend Breaks in Leeds

Weekend breaks in york inspiration.

Make sure to wear comfy shoes! In York it is much easier and quicker to get around by foot than by car or public transport – plus it’s a much better way to take in the beautiful sites and explore the quaint cobbled streets which make the city so special. For amazing views over the whole city we recommend taking a walk around the city walls. It is completely free to do and it allows you to get the most beautiful views of York from a bird’s eye view. It takes about an hour to walk around the entirety of the wall – definitely a must-do in York!

Protect Your Trip »

The 18 best weekend getaways from new york city.

From picturesque beaches to dreamy mountain retreats, these weekend getaways are the perfect change of scenery.

18 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

Getty Images

Fire Island, a weekend getaway about a three-hour drive east of Manhattan, offers sailing, clamming, bird-watching and more.

New York City has been described in many ways, but "relaxing" isn't typically one of them. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, relieve some stress by packing a bag and getting out of the city for a few days.

To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from New York City. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend trip , a fun-filled family escape or some time with friends , these getaways have everything you need for a memorable trip.

Best Weekend Getaways From New York City

About two hours or less:

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Beacon, new york, philadelphia, north fork, new york.

About three hours or less:

Fire Island, New York

The hamptons, new york, the catskills, new york, cape may, new jersey, mystic, connecticut.

About four hours or less:

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Shelter island, new york, newport, rhode island, lake george, new york.

About five hours or less:

Saranac Lake, New York

Washington, d.c., the finger lakes, new york.

A quick flight:

Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario

Two hours or less.

This stunning mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania (about 100 miles northwest of New York City) has appealed to travelers for generations. Perfect for both families and couples, the Poconos offer everything from whitewater rafting tours to fascinating museums and manicured golf courses. If the kids are in tow, let them burn off their excess energy at a water park . Meanwhile, thrill-seekers will be right at home at one of the region's adventure parks, which feature aerial obstacle courses and an all-season tubing hill, and nature lovers will enjoy ample hiking and horseback riding opportunities. Plus, with several romantic restaurants and resorts , the Poconos area has distinguished itself as a premier honeymoon destination for lovebirds. Book your stay at The Lodge at Woodloch for a wellness-centered vacation complete with yoga and art classes, mindfulness experiences, and an adults-only spa.

[See more of the Poconos: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Located in New York's Hudson Valley, around 60 miles north of Manhattan, Beacon has transformed in the past two decades from a sleepy industrial town to a thriving arts community, making it the getaway of choice for relaxation-seeking city dwellers. Here, visitors can spend weekends (or a daytrip) perusing vintage shops and flea markets, kayaking along the Hudson River, and exploring Beacon's scenic hiking trails.

The first stop on your itinerary should be Dia Beacon, a renowned contemporary art museum housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory. One of the largest contemporary art galleries in the country, Dia's robust collection of work spans from the 1960s to the present. From here, take a stroll down Main Street. Lined with doughnut shops, cafes and art galleries, Beacon's main drag features hidden gems such as Hudson Beach Glass and the Towne Crier Cafe, a popular restaurant and live music venue. While there is plenty to do and see in Beacon, you can't leave without touring the ruins of Bannerman Castle. Situated on Pollepel Island and reachable by boat from late April to October, this Scottish-style castle was once a storage site for surplus military equipment and ammunition.

Not only is this quiet refuge less than two hours by car from Manhattan, but travelers can easily hop on the train to reach this destination as well: Take the Metro-North Railroad from New York City to Beacon for less than $50 round trip. There are also plenty of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to unique digs like The Roundhouse, an abandoned factory complex-turned-stylish boutique hotel.

Ditch the Big Apple and head about 95 miles southwest to the City of Brotherly Love. Known best for being the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia is an ideal weekend getaway for families and history buffs. Brush up on your founding fathers trivia on a walking tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center before strolling through Rittenhouse Square Park. From there, set your sights on the city's must-see museums: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation and The Franklin Institute are all good places to explore.

Philadelphia is also notorious for its substantial culinary prowess . Sure, the cheesesteaks are a must-try – stop in a shop like Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies to see for yourself what all the hype is about – but this city has a diverse food scene. If you have time to spare, check out the lengthy list of vendors in Reading Terminal Market, where you can sample everything from Dutch to Thai to Cajun fare.

With limited parking available in the city, it's best to stick with public transportation. New York City travelers can ride the Amtrak from Moynihan Train Hall to the William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in less than two hours. Once here, opt for lodging in Center City, where you'll find an array of coffee shops, posh restaurants and historic sites within walking distance of your hotel . Travelers particularly favor The Rittenhouse for its elegant accommodations and first-rate service.

[See more of Philadelphia: Best Things to Do ]

Long Island's northeastern peninsula, known as the North Fork, fits the bill for your next weekend trip if you like tranquil seaside villages and laid-back itineraries. Located about 80 miles east of Manhattan and directly north of the illustrious Hamptons, this quiet refuge is characterized by its wineries, beaches and friendly atmosphere. Not only is this short jaunt from the city an excellent place for a couples trips in New York state , but families will also find a plethora of exciting activities here as well.

To get here, catch the Long Island Rail Road commuter train from Penn Station to Greenport. When you arrive, make a beeline for the beach – Orient Beach State Park occupies a prime section of real estate along Gardiner's Bay and is a perfect place for kayaking, swimming and sunbathing. Meanwhile, wine aficionados can spend the afternoon at Macari Vineyards or Sparkling Pointe Vineyards and Winery while families hit up the Splish Splash water park. At the end of the day, unwind at the lovely Harborfront Inn at Greenport.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island .]

Three hours or less

This secluded barrier island off the southern shore of Long Island is about 65 miles east of Manhattan and a popular getaway for New Yorkers – for good reason. Travelers will find an unspoiled island free of high-rise buildings and the vexing sounds of traffic, all within a few hours of the city. In fact, Fire Island is a car-free environment, making it the ideal choice for city dwellers in need of a short weekend escape. Here, visitors can enjoy activities like sailing, biking, clamming and bird-watching. Just keep in mind that Memorial Day to Labor Day is considered the busy season, so schedule your vacation outside of these dates if you want to avoid crowds.

Because you can't drive onto the island, the best way to get here is by taking the Long Island Rail Road to Sayville, Patchogue or Bayshore. These destinations have marinas that offer ferry service to and from Fire Island for a fee. When it comes to lodging, Fire Island's options are mostly small inns and hotels, but they fill up quickly, so book in advance to ensure you'll have accommodations. If you'd rather rough it, campgrounds are available within the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, at Smith Point County Park and at Watch Hill. Keep in mind, backcountry camping permits and daily campsite fees (typically starting at $25 per day) may be required for select areas.

Arriving in the Hamptons, it's easy to see why this seaside destination on eastern Long Island's South Fork has established such a name for itself. White sand beaches, untouched nature preserves and plenty of bars serving up frozen cocktails are just a few of the alluring images that may come to mind when you imagine an escape to the Hamptons. Luckily for New Yorkers, this little slice of heaven sits less than 100 miles east of Manhattan, making it easily accessible for weekend getaways and daytrips .

Lay down your towel on East Hampton's Main Beach or Southampton's Coopers Beach, then cast a fishing line from the shore of Montauk Point State Park. For a dose of culture, check out the Hamptons' illustrious art scene: The Parrish Art Museum and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center (open seasonally) are two of the area's most prominent museums. When it's time to turn in for the night, save some coin by choosing a hotel in nearby Riverhead or by camping on the beach.

For nature lovers, this mountain range in southeastern New York is the perfect place to reconnect with the great outdoors. Home of the famous 1969 Woodstock music festival, the Catskills have been inspiring travelers for decades. Spend the weekend hiking the region's popular trails (the Kaaterskill Falls trail features the tallest waterfall in New York state), or get out on Alder Lake in a kayak. In winter, head here to see Hunter Mountain blanketed in snow and to take advantage of top-notch skiing and tubing opportunities.

In addition to outdoor activities such as hiking, fly-fishing, biking and zip lining, the Catskills are a haven for artists. Follow the Hudson River School Art Trail to witness firsthand the vistas that inspired artists like Thomas Cole. Meanwhile, music lovers and history buffs won't want to miss a visit to The Museum at Bethel Woods, a museum showcasing artifacts and stories from Woodstock. Before calling it a night at one of the region's fabulous hotels or resorts , stop by a microbrewery for a flight.

[Read:  The Top New York Ski Resorts .]

Those looking for a relaxing weekend should consider Cape May, a top romantic getaway destination in New Jersey . Located roughly 160 miles south of New York City, this enchanting East Coast town is beloved for its beautiful beaches, striking Victorian homes and laid-back atmosphere. After soaking up some rays at the beach (the Cove Beach is a traveler favorite), hit up the retailers at Washington Street Mall. Filled with small boutiques, ice cream shops and bookstores, this outdoor mall spans three blocks and is perfect for easygoing strolls.

Other can't-miss activities in Cape May include climbing the Cape May Lighthouse, watching the sun go down at Sunset Beach, embarking on a sightseeing cruise and taking a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate – Cape May's only Victorian-era house museum. Cape May offers a plethora of lodging options for weekend trips ranging from quaint B&Bs to hotels set in ornate Victorian mansions. Book a room in historic Congress Hall or The Southern Mansion for charming guest rooms and convenient amenities.

The quintessential New England town of Mystic is situated around 130 miles northeast of New York City and considered one of the top things to do in Connecticut . This seaside village has everything you'd want from a weekend getaway: museums, galleries, delicious eateries and historic landmarks. Head to Williams Beach Park for a quiet day by the water, then stroll through Mystic's historic downtown. Colonial-era sea captain's homes line the streets here, and there are countless places to dine and shop.

Families will also love the Mystic Aquarium for its educational exhibits and interactive habitats. Meanwhile, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a maritime museum that offers several activities for kids, including hands-on exhibits and a zoo garden. Just don't leave without snapping a photo of the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, a 1922 drawbridge that connects the Groton and Stonington sides of Mystic. When you're ready to retire for the evening, Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa receives rave reviews for its comfortable rooms and ample business amenities.

Four hours or less

This rural region in western Massachusetts (about 150 miles north of Manhattan) has all the makings of a fairytale getaway with plenty of things to do . Picturesque mountain ranges, winding roads and idyllic towns are synonymous with the Berkshires, making this destination the perfect place to escape the hubbub of New York City. Bring your partner along to enjoy a romantic weekend filled with antique shopping, museum tours and scenic car rides through the region's lush countryside.

For breathtaking mountain panoramas, strap on your hiking boots and head to the summit of Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. Meanwhile, culture hounds won't want to miss a chance to tour the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and The Clark Art Institute. In summer, catch a dance performance at the prestigious Jacob's Pillow or listen to live music on the lawn of Tanglewood, an extravagant music venue and summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Accommodations in the Berkshires run the gamut from B&Bs to luxurious hotels and resorts. Many past travelers say Canyon Ranch Lenox , while pricey, is worth the splurge for its wellness-focused amenities and indulgent spa treatments.

Only accessible by ferry, this hidden oasis between New York's North Fork and South Fork is perfect for a quick weekend escape from the city. You won't find rowdy nightlife or luxurious accommodations here, but that only adds to its appeal. In fact, nearly a third of the island is made up of the Mashomack Preserve, a protected habitat with 11 miles of coastline and more than 2,350 acres of tidal creeks, freshwater marshes, fields and woodlands. The preserve is also a major hub for bird-watching: More than 200 species of birds call this area home, although it is specifically known for its large population of nesting osprey.

Elsewhere on the island, visitors can lounge on Wades Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand featuring lifeguards and a comfort station, or enjoy water sports at Shell Beach. Shelter Island is a premier spot for kayaking: The seasonally open Kayak Shelter Island offers single and double kayaks, along with paddleboard rentals. While the island has golf courses, boutique shopping and courts for petanque (a French game similar to bocce ball), undoubtedly the best thing to do here is nothing at all.

To get here, start by taking the Long Island Rail Road commuter train to Greenport, then board the North Ferry to Shelter Island. Alternatively, you can get here by driving to Sag Harbor and then loading your car onto the South Ferry. For lodging, Shelter Island offers a handful of small hotels, vacation rentals and B&Bs.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

If sandy toes and lobster rolls are calling your name, look no further than Newport, Rhode Island – one of the best spots for a weekend getaway in New England . This port town, located on the southern tip of Aquidneck Island and about 180 miles northeast of New York, is famous for its miles of pristine shoreline, upscale boutiques and ornate Gilded Age mansions, which you can ogle on a trolley tour . It is also lauded as one of the world's premier sailing destinations.

While here, gain your sea legs aboard a boat tour of Newport Harbor, or get your steps in on part of the Cliff Walk, a scenic 3.5-mile pathway that runs along Newport's eastern shore. Then, engage in some well-deserved retail therapy along Thames Street, which is lined with a plethora of shops and restaurants. Of course, you can't leave without touring The Breakers, Newport's iconic Renaissance-style "summer cottage," which is one of the top things to do in Rhode Island . When it's time to bed down, check out one of Newport's many lavish accommodations, such as The Vanderbilt and The Chanler at Cliff Walk .

[See more of Newport: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Situated in New York's Adirondacks region, roughly 200 miles north of Manhattan, Lake George is filled with fun activities the whole family can enjoy. Sink your toes in the sand at Lake George Beach, also known as the Million Dollar Beach: a kid-friendly stretch of sand complete with lifeguards and concession stands. Then, work up a sweat hiking Prospect Mountain and Shelving Rock Falls. For more of a thrill, check out Lake George's parasailing, whitewater rafting and zip lining courses.

If you're simply looking to kick your feet up on your weekend getaway, rent a pontoon boat and spend the day floating around Lake George. The region is also home to restaurants, the Adirondack Winery outpost in Lake George and several museums, including The Hyde Collection and the Fort William Henry Museum. After an eventful day of lake activities, head back to your plush accommodations at The Sagamore Resort to unwind.

[See more of the Adirondacks: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Five hours or less

This quiet village in upstate New York (around 300 miles north of New York City) is less crowded than the popular Lake Placid, making Saranac Lake an excellent choice for a weekend getaway from the city. Take advantage of this stunning lake by getting out on the water in a canoe or kayak, then get your heart pumping on the 3.7-mile Bloomingdale Bog Trail. For an extra dose of history, the Saranac Laboratory Museum showcases Saranac's interesting past as a tuberculosis treatment destination. Downtown, you'll also find a variety of shops, restaurants and art galleries to keep you occupied for hours, plus little ones will enjoy the Adirondack Carousel, which runs Friday through Sunday.

Saranac Lake is also a popular winter destination thanks to its plethora of outdoor sports (think: snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing) and traditional winter activities such as the annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which takes place every February. The event also features a fireworks display and multiple parades. When it comes to lodging, visitors will mostly find cozy cabins and B&Bs here, but a handful of luxury hotels are available as well. For the ultimate in comfort, book your stay at Hotel Saranac, a historic property with modern amenities.

Famous for its slew of historic landmarks, monuments and museums (many of which are free to enter), Washington, D.C., has long appealed to historians and politicos. However, there's more to the nation's capital than meets the eye. With more than 20 neighborhoods to explore and innumerable things to do , Washington is a treasure chest waiting to be unlocked. Find killer nightlife and impeccable dining in the Shaw and U Street area, upscale shopping in Georgetown, charming 19th-century row houses in Dupont Circle, and a bevy of historic attractions on Capitol Hill.

If you're only visiting for the weekend, expect an action-packed schedule. Start by hitting up one of the city's first-rate museums: The National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Gallery of Art are a few traveler favorites. Then, take a stroll along the Tidal Basin (you can also get out on the water by renting a paddleboat) or relax on the lawn of the National Mall. Here, you'll have easy access to attractions like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and its Reflecting Pool, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol. Note, though, that while many of D.C.'s attractions are free, some museums may require timed-entry passes to be reserved ahead of time, so plan as far in advance as possible.

Located roughly 225 miles southwest of NYC, Washington is an easy drive by car or bus. However, the best way to get here is by train. Take Amtrak's high-speed Acela or Northeast Regional train to Union Station and shed up to 90 minutes off your travel time. Plus, because Washington frequently plays host to celebrities, politicians and business tycoons, there are plenty of top-notch accommodations to choose from once you arrive. For a luxurious stay, book a room at The Jefferson , a sophisticated property with European flair plus a restaurant and a cocktail bar on-site. An added bonus? The Jefferson is located only a mile away from the National Mall, so you'll be right where the action is.

[Read: The Best Washington, D.C., Tours .]

Bordering Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay, New England's largest city sits 215 miles northeast of New York City; travelers can opt to travel here by car, bus or train. Whether you're drawn here by the cobblestone streets, the historic landmarks or the city's strong baseball roots (a visit to Fenway Park for a game or behind-the-scenes tour can't be missed), Boston has all the ingredients you need for a memorable weekend getaway – just remember to pack your walking shoes .

After you've successfully trekked the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail (or hop-on, hop-off bus tour) to some of Boston's most famed attractions – including the Paul Revere House, Old North Church and Faneuil Hall Marketplace – find a shady spot to rest in Boston Common or the Boston Public Garden. For a dose of culture, check out the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which features landscaped gardens and an extensive collection of European, Asian and American art. When you've tired yourself out from a day of sightseeing, hang up your coat in one of Boston's premier hotels . Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston and the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf are two of the city's top properties, both offering a lengthy list of amenities and plush accommodations.

[Read:  The Top Boston Harbor Cruises .]

New York's Finger Lakes – a collection of 11 lakes that includes the popular shorelines of Seneca Lake, Skaneateles Lake and Cayuga Lake – are revered for their spectacular water sports opportunities, scenic state parks and top-notch wine. As one of the chief wine regions in the country and the largest wine-producing area in the state of New York, the Finger Lakes region has earned its reputation as a top destination for romantic weekend getaways.

For short stays in the Finger Lakes, following the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the best way to see a lot of local wineries in a little amount of time. With nearly 30 wineries and several restaurants set along the route, the trail is perfect for leisurely car rides in the countryside (just be sure to assign a designated driver ahead of time). Opt for a refreshing riesling, the region's signature wine, or expand your palate on a tasting tour.

Meanwhile, nature lovers should head to Robert H. Treman State Park or Watkins Glen State Park for a chance to see breathtaking waterfalls. If you're looking for a small-town atmosphere with local shops and museums, you can't go wrong with Skaneateles Lake. Here, you'll also find a variety of charming B&Bs and inns like the Mirbeau Inn & Spa , a traveler favorite. Other top lodging options in the Finger Lakes region include the Inns of Aurora and The Statler Hotel at Cornell University , both of which offer easy access to Cayuga Lake.

A quick flight

If you're willing to hop on a short flight (or take a bus tour), you can enjoy a weekend marveling at one of the most beautiful and impressive natural wonders of the world: Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is less than a two-hour flight from New York City – and, while this powerful waterfall is sure to take your breath away, it isn't the only reason to plan a weekend getaway to the area. With beautiful botanical gardens, wineries and casinos, this famous tourist town has everything you need for a fun-filled weekend away. Take advantage of both the American and Canadian sides of the Niagara River by bringing your passport with you.

For a classic Niagara Falls experience, don a poncho and board the Maid of the Mist boat tour. This famed attraction is one of the best ways to see the falls up close, but it's impossible to guarantee you won't get wet. If you'd rather view the falls from a drier and less crowded vantage point, head to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. Thrill-seekers can also experience the falls on Journey Behind the Falls, which takes participants directly behind the thunderous waterfall, or on an exhilarating jet boat tour. When it's time to turn in, visitors on the American side of the falls can book their stay at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino , while Ontario-based guests spend a cozy night in the well-appointed Harbour House Hotel .

[See more of Niagara Falls: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Washington, D.C.
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont

Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , Vacation Ideas , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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16 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from New York City

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jun 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Big Apple is one of the best places to visit in the United States . Overflowing with iconic sights and things to do, New York attracts millions of vacationers. Sometimes, though, the concrete jungle can get to be a bit much – all that noise and hustle and bustle can become draining – causing people to search for a relaxing weekend getaway from New York City.

Luckily, the city that never sleeps is surrounded by picturesque areas offering a more laid-back, natural feel – we're talking soft, sandy beaches; mountain vistas; majestic state parks, and sparkling lakes – that make it easy to decompress.

Whether you choose to take a bus, train, or drive your own car, most of these gorgeous spots are within easy reach of New York City.

Decide which place to visit first with our list of the top weekend getaways from New York City.

1. The Hamptons, New York

2. hudson, new york, 3. philadelphia, pennsylvania, 4. harriman state park, new york, 5. the catskills, new york, 6. beacon, new york, 7. mohonk mountain house-new paltz, new york, 8. cape may, new jersey, 9. mystic, connecticut, 10. hunter, new york, 11. sleepy hollow, new york, 12. princeton, new jersey, 13. ocean city, new jersey, 14. washington, connecticut, 15. the finger lakes, new york, 16. newport, rhode island, map of weekend getaways from new york city.

The southern tip of Long Island has a lengthy history as a favorite vacation spot for those wanting to escape the Big Apple and get some quality beach time. This is also a hot spot for celebs looking to improve their tans and chase their kids on the soft sand. This glitzy area offers countless activities in quaint villages, which make up what is known as The Hamptons.

Each hamlet has its own unique personality (and price tag), including Bridgehampton , Montauk , Sag Harbor , Amagansett , and Sagaponack . From quiet retreats and artsy enclaves to mini versions of a social scene of Manhattan on the Beach , the Hamptons offer something for everyone.

During the busy summer season be prepared for what can be crippling traffic that can turn the short distance into a three-hour drive (or more), especially if you choose to commute from the city on a Friday. However, few will argue that it's not worth the effort.

Those with deep pockets can hire a helicopter service to transport them straight to the Hamptons in anywhere from 25 to 65 minutes. Other options include taking a bus or driving yourself. No matter how you choose to get there, a sandy paradise awaits, immediately transporting visitors from the manic pace of New York City.

While in the region, be sure to stop by a local seafood shack like the Dock House in Sag Harbor, where you can catch sweeping views of the marina while eating some fresh, local catch, a specialty in the Hamptons. Miles of beaches invite visitors for long walks, swimming, sand-castle building, and boogie boarding.

There is an array of fabulous resorts and beach hotels to consider but be sure to book early as they fill up months (sometimes even a year) in advance. Or, do as the wealthy do and rent a vacation home. Many cost over $200,000 for the summer season, which usually runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Located on the east side of the Hudson River, Hudson, NY is about a 2.5-hour drive from the city. Visitors might be surprised to hear that Hudson was a former whaling port with ties to Nantucket in the 1800s. The town is filled with 19th-century charm and gorgeous historic buildings.

Hudson is also known for its up-and-coming culinary scene, complete with notable New York chefs. You'll want to arrive hungry! Take some time to stroll the streets, which are peppered with antique stores, one-of-a-kind shops, and art galleries like Art House Hudson or the Carrie Haddad Gallery . Make sure to get in some hiking at one of the scenic trails nearby.

Just a short distance from the Amtrak station, The Wick, Hudson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel is housed in a repurposed candle factory. Guests can rely on modern amenities while absorbing the unique character of this trendy boutique property.

The Hudson Valley is filled with glamorous resorts that make the most of their scenic locale. Take time to research them all to find one that's perfect for you. Even if it's not in Hudson, you'll find plenty to do.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Hudson, NY

Despite being one of the largest cities in this country, Philadelphia can feel like a small town, especially if you wander through some of its older neighborhoods, like Old City or Northern Liberties. If you are a history buff, Philadelphia is a wonderful weekend getaway from New York City. Stop by the Reading Terminal Market , the oldest public market, and grab a bite to eat. Their Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels are legendary as is the ice cream at Bassetts.

After you've refueled, visit Elfreth's Alley to see the oldest street in America or stop by and ogle a copy of the Constitution, as well as more of our nation's history at the National Constitution Center . Art lovers should make sure to visit the Magic Garden , a wonderful environment of mosaic creativity. The Philadelphia Zoo is also a must-see, especially for those traveling with kids.

No trip to Philly is complete without enjoying one of their world-famous cheesesteaks. Although there are hundreds to choose from, most tourists go for Geno's or Pat's located across the street from one another in South Philadelphia.

The easiest way to beat the traffic on your way to Philadelphia from New York is by Amtrak. They offer a high-speed Acela train, as well as the standard Northeast Corridor Line, and depending on which you take, you can make it from point to point in about an hour and a half.

Looking for a sense of place during your Philadelphia stay? The eco-friendly Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia has incorporated local décor and artwork into its centrally located property. This Art Deco gem is part of the Kimpton brand and has a wonderful on-site restaurant featuring the best of local ingredients on the menu. If the spirit moves you, take advantage of their loaner bikes to spin around this neighborhood, with a stop in one of the many green spaces for which the city is well known.

Not sure how to get from New York City to Philadelphia ? There are plenty of options, including a train, plane, bus, or car. Philadelphia is 95 miles from NYC.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

A trip to Harriman State Park is a must for those looking to escape the city's rat race in favor of immersing themselves in the glory of mother nature. Worthy of more than a day trip from New York City , the park has 200 miles of hiking trails, beaches, camping areas, lakes, and a seemingly endless array of wildlife, offering the perfect respite from busy city life.

Head over to Lake Sebago , one of the largest lakes in the park, where you can enjoy swimming, boating, or camping. You can even hike the 18-mile portion of the famous Appalachian Trail that runs through Harriman.

Getting here from the city is easy; it's only a 35-mile drive. The historic Bear Mountain Inn lies a 14-minute drive from Harriman. Built in 1915, it is set on a plateau above Hessian Lake, offering guests lovely views and plenty of charm. The 15 rooms and suites are rustic and comfortable and there is a restaurant on-site, as well as a gift shop and grab-and-go café.

A visit to the Catskills is a New Yorker's rite of passage. Located in the Appalachian Mountain range in southeastern New York, the Catskills are the perfect setting for a relaxing girlfriends' getaway, a romantic couples' weekend, or even a family trip. This is one of the best weekend getaway locales in upstate New York .

The best way to get here is to hop in the car for a 150-mile drive, which, depending on the traffic and time of year, can take anywhere from two and a half to four hours. The trip is richly rewarding, especially in fall, when the autumn leaves light up the mountains with their rich colors.

If you are looking for scenic views, head to Overlook Mountain in Woodstock or the Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson. Here, you can hike or just relax and convene with nature. For those searching for a little more adventure, you can do the fastest and highest zipline tour at Hunter Mountain , or paddle out to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse .

The Catskills are also filled with great places to eat, which is a good thing seeing as you'll spend much of your time here working up an appetite by adventuring. Depending on your mood, you can get everything from classic diner food at places like the Ambrosia Diner .

As for a place to rest your weary head, there is a wide variety of properties available to fit all needs, from bed-and-breakfasts to high-end resorts. A property that combines the best of both worlds is the Melour Resort in Tannersville. At this friendly and luxurious resort, you'll find a wide variety of modern amenities mixed with the charm of a small-town retreat.

An indoor pool and Jacuzzi are a hit with kids and adults of all ages, and the sauna is a perfect way to decompress after a long day spent hiking, biking, or skiing. There's also a 24-hour tea room and fitness center on-site.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in the Catskills, NY

Located on the banks of the Hudson River and close to New York City, Beacon makes a great getaway for those who don't want to suffer through sitting in long lines of traffic or hours in the car. If you take the Metro North train line, you can get here in about an hour and a half.

In Beacon, you will find your fill of Victorian-era architecture and small-town charm. Be sure to stop into one of the many cafés to grab a bite to eat and a coffee before heading down the main street and visiting the unique antique stores, collectible shops, and art galleries.

If you just want to relax and enjoy the river views, take a stroll to the waterfront, where you can enjoy biking and walking paths and plenty of greenery to get that concrete out of your brain. You can also drive to the top of Mount Beacon by taking the incline road. This hour ride will give you breathtaking views, especially in the fall.

Overlooking Fishkill Creek and Beacon Falls, the Roundhouse is a historic property reimagined into a modern hotel. Several buildings offer 41 guest rooms and an award-winning restaurant filled with tasty offerings.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Beacon, NY

The Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York is a destination in itself and a major tourist attraction in the Hudson Valley . Architecturally, it looks like a Victorian castle sitting on the banks of the majestic Mohonk Lake . The sprawling house grounds and amenities make for a stay so all-encompassing you won't ever have to leave the property.

Boat rides on the lake, hiking, and "forest bathing" are all part of the experience. Doesn't everyone appreciate a walk in the woods to renew their mind? This now trendy experience originated many years ago in Japan.

The premise of shinrin-yoku (as it's known in Japan) is to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and feelings of the forest as you wander through, focusing on these senses, which will, in turn, heighten your physical and emotional health.

The fall is an especially beautiful time for a visit, and all visitors will find it hard to resist the many offerings from the award-winning spa menu. Several restaurants on the property offer extensive menus of delicious dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. Concerts, festivals, and cultural offerings keep the calendar busy all year long.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in New Paltz, NY

Cape May is one of the most enchanting destinations along the Jersey Shore beaches. Dotted with Victorian houses and quaint bed and breakfasts, along with a pristine coastline, Cape May is not only a great spot for a couples' getaway, but for families as well. It's also one of the best weekend getaways in New Jersey .

The beach is the main draw, as the area is known as the nation's oldest seaside resort. That said, if you want to beat the heat or enjoy a rainy day indoors, pick one of Cape May's many things to do – like the Cape May County Park and Zoo , Fireman's Museum , or the iconic Cape May Lighthouse . We won't blame you if you'd like to relax in one of the area's many spas.

Cape May has no shortage of resorts and inns to make your getaway a special experience.

Mystic is one of Connecticut's most charming maritime towns. Steeped in history and abundant in New England charm, this sweet spot is a lovely place to visit, especially during the summer and fall. It's chock-full of fun activities for the whole family.

The Mystic Seaport Museum tops the list of things to do in Mystic , with its re-created 19th-century seafaring village, children's museum, and the Charles W. Morgan wooden whaling ship. Next, you'll have to see the Mystic Aquarium , one of the best attractions in Connecticut.

Don't leave town without grabbing a few sweet samples from the food shops located in the adorable shopping village across from the aquarium. Called the Olde Mistick Village , this picturesque spot will take you back in time, and it offers a slew of unique wares in addition to tasty fare.

Author's tip: Save room for tea at Alice's in the Village . A whimsical spot created in homage to Lewis Caroll's famed novel, children will love its fun vibe, not to mention the creative flavors of bubble and matcha tee on offer.

A 2.5-hour drive east will get you from New York City to Mystic, passing the opulent town of Greenwich along the way. Break up the journey with a stop here to enjoy the pristine streets, upscale shops, and fabulous restaurants.

The Whaler's Inn on downtown's Main Street is a relaxing place to spend your weekend getaway from New York City. At this boutique hotel that's served the area for over 60 years, you'll find great service along with free breakfast and family-friendly suites within its five newly renovated buildings.

This sleepy town in New York State actually consists of two villages: Tannersville and Hunter. Its Catskill location makes it a great spot for a weekend getaway from New York City for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.

About a two-hour drive (without traffic), Hunter offers skiing, ziplining, hiking, and other outdoor activities, making it a great place to visit in New York State year-round. That said, fall and winter are favored times to visit, as they offer tons of fun activities and events.

Visitors can head out to enjoy the spectacular fall foliage with a side of live music at Oktoberfest in autumn or go skiing at Hunter Mountain , a popular ski resort that has been drawing families, who return year after year, in winter. This is one of the best places to go skiing near New York City .

Sleepy Hollow received fame from its folklore tale of the headless horseman, but it stays a popular weekend getaway from New York City because of its appeal to those interested in the supernatural and macabre. Washington Irving might have made it famous, but Tim Burton put it on the map for a whole new generation. Located in the town of Mount Pleasant, the village boasts plenty of hiking, art, and views of the past.

If you are lucky enough to get away in the fall, you can take part in spooky Oktoberfest or head out on the Haunted Hayride . At all other times of the year, you can just enjoy all the rest of the ghostly things this unique village has to offer, like the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery . In addition, Kykuit , the Rockefeller family's hilltop estate has beautiful gardens, outdoor sculpture, and a gallery.

Getting to Sleepy Hollow is easy – you can either make the 90-minute drive from the city or jump on the light rail and arrive in about the same time with no risk of traffic.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Sleepy Hollow, NY

Best known as home to one of America's best Ivy League schools, Princeton boasts much more than its impressive academia. That said, Princeton University's grand buildings are hard to miss and even more difficult to dislike. The historic architecture is enough to make your jaw drop, while the inside of places like the Princeton University Art Museum and Nassau Hall are so lovely, you'll want to stay longer.

Palmer Square serves as the heart of this pretty New Jersey town. You can shop, eat, and sit for a while soaking up the vibe at one of the central picnic tables. Save room for dessert, as the square is lined with chocolate and ice cream shops

There's plenty of entertainment on offer to keep you occupied all weekend long. From performances at the McCarter Theater Center to plays at the Princeton Garden Theatre , you won't be at a loss for things to see. History lovers will enjoy a trip to Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Morven Museum and Garden .

If you're looking for a special place to stay, the Nassau Inn is a charming retreat located in Palmer Square. This sweet inn may look small and historic from the outside, but it's been updated to a level of modernity all current guests will enjoy.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Princeton, NJ

Ocean City offers one of the best New Jersey beaches for families. At this dry town, you don't have to worry about obnoxious revelers loudly strolling the 2.5-mile boardwalk or jostling for space on the miles of soft, sandy beach. Also, lifeguards are on duty between Memorial Day and Sunfest Weekend (usually the third weekend after Labor Day) to ensure your kids are safe.

When you aren't digging your toes in the sand, make good use of the area's best attractions. The boardwalk is the heart of Ocean City. It boasts two mini golf courses, the super fun Gillian's Wonderland Pier amusement park (complete with a Ferris wheel), and enough sweet shops to keep your dentist in business.

A two-hour drive from New York City, this top beach town is one of the best places to enjoy a weekend getaway filled with sun, sand, and surf. If you're hoping to make the most of your quick getaway, plan to visit during the warm, summer months–winter gets pretty bleak around here.

Scarborough Inn is by far the best place to stay in Ocean City. You'll be hard-pressed to find something with more charm and friendlier staff. Smooth jazz guides you through the historic doors of the oldest hotel in Ocean City , but when you enter the newly renovated, modern chic rooms, and eat the delicious homemade breakfast, you'll never want to leave.

If they're fully booked, try The Bayberry Inn Bed & Breakfast . At this smaller, charismatic hotel, guests are set close to the beach and can enjoy a romantic stay in comfortable rooms featuring wicker furniture and floral prints.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ocean City, New Jersey

Washington is a haven for outdoorsy travelers. One of the best small towns in Connecticut , this rural gem is everything New York City is not: quiet, clean, and filled with natural wonders like thundering waterfalls and deep forests. It's located two and a half hours northeast of New York.

You'll be spoiled for ways to enjoy the fresh air. Hike across the Henry David Thoreau suspension bridge , which is tucked into the majestic Hidden Valley Preserve in Washington Depot. Or explore the 998-acre Steep Rock Preserve . Climb the 776 feet to Steep Rock Summit for the best views.

The Washington Art Association and Gallery is also worthy of a look, as is the Gunn Historical Museum .

The Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection is one of the best resorts in Connecticut for multiple reasons. First, it is gorgeous, elegant, and well-serviced. Next, it boasts incredibly luxurious amenities like a gourmet restaurant, two pools, and a spa.

Whether you're hoping to soak up the most majestic fall colors, swim in New York's best lakes , or marvel at the tallest waterfall in the Eastern US, The Finger Lakes region is packed with exciting things to do and stunning places to visit.

First up is a trip to the spectacular Watkins Glen State Park , where you can spend the day hiking.

Next, it's time for a hot air balloon ride above Letchworth State Park . The views are as breathtaking as the strong winds. If that's not your thing, you can always just go for a walk and appreciate the waterfalls.

Finally, go camping at Taughannock Falls State Park . It's here that you'll come face to thundering cascade with one of New York's top waterfalls , Taughannock Falls.

Still looking for more ways to spend your weekend away? With a wildlife refuge, adventure park, and ski hills, the Finger Lakes won't disappoint. The drive from New York City will take roughly five hours , which is definitely doable in a day. You'll definitely want to spend at least two nights away, which is easy to do in the region's lovely resorts.

Author's tip: No matter what time of year you're visiting, be sure to stop at Greek Peak Mountain Resort . Even if you don't stay at the affiliated resort overnight, the outdoor Adventure Center is a fab way to spend a fun-filled day with the whole family. The Mountain Coaster is a blast, and the high ropes course is a must-try.

Despite its diminutive size, Rhode Island boasts impressive towns. One of the most popular is Newport. Located a four-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City , this delightful spot is a haven for summer vacationers hoping to nibble on fresh fish, visit glamorous mansions, and shop in eclectic boutiques.

The Cliff Walk is the most famous thing to do in Newport . An easy path leads visitors along the Rhode Island Sound, with some of the town's most famed homes on full display. The Breakers , Rosecliff , and Beechwood are only a few of the mansions you'll see during this walk, and many are available to tour (for a fee).

When finished touring, take a break at Easton Beach , one of the state's best beaches . It's primed for families, boasting a playground, carousel, skateboard park, and plenty of facilities.

As for staying the night, you'll be spoiled for choice. The resorts on offer in this Rhode Island charmer are as luxe and lovely as you'd expect.

Author's tip: Eat dinner early. The restaurants in Newport are top-notch. If you can't make a reservation, head out early (we're talking 5:30pm) to ensure you find a spot. There are plenty of eateries overlooking Newport Harbor, which will add a romantic ambiance to any meal.

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15 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, there's no doubt appeal in doing as New Yorkers do and pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip.) 

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms.—and thankfully, all of the above is on offer within a few hours of Manhattan. From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks—and even a quick two-hour hop over to Bermuda—beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's supporting destinations don't get more buzz in the first place. 

Below, the 15 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, plus a 30-minute ferry ride

An all-time favorite summer escape, and one that is especially important to NYC’s queer community, is Fire Island. With its many towns and beaches, each boasting their own local flavor, the Long Island barrier island makes it easy to choose the spot to match your vibe. A few popular spots: Cherry Grove is a fun-loving party destination, Kismet is known for its nightlife, and Fire Island Pines is an affluent community with a dining and shopping scene and some of the island’s most expensive addresses. A worthwhile hotel option is the Madison , the boutique bed and breakfast where the cast of Fire Island stayed while shooting the recent film. (A few other spots it featured? The bar Cherry’s which offers harborside drag shows, vintage shop DENIZEN , and the Belvedere Fire Island , a palatial resort for gay men.

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

About a two-hour drive; about an hour and fifteen minutes via Amtrak

It may be obvious, but it’s too easily forgotten by New Yorkers: the easy urban getaway to nearby Philadelphia. The city is budding with things to do, whether you’re in search of great new restaurants, fantastic art exhibits, or just a change of pace. A few of our favorite to-dos in Philly include visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, followed by the perfect cheesesteak at John’s Roast Pork . Betsy Blumenthal, Features and Franchises Editor at Traveler —and resident Philly expert—recommends the city’s Four Seasons for its spectacular aerial views of landmarks like Independence Hall. (For even more destination tips, check out our comprehensive Philadelphia city guide. )

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

For many, the Hamptons conjure visions of Upper East Siders summering in their mansions, and flitting between high society parties. A weekend is the perfect stretch of time to slip into that whirlwind before letting the city ground you once again. Classic to-dos like visiting the Pollock-Krasner house in East Hampton (open May to October), designer shopping in the villages, and waterfront dining are always a good idea, as are summery outdoor activities. Pedal around the Atlantic Avenue Beach area with a bike rental from Amagansett Beach & Bicycle Company , savor a hefty lobster roll at the Dock House in Sag Harbor, or find inner peace in bird-filled Hither Hills State Park . A classic East Hampton stay, the Maidstone Hotel is the perfect place to post up (if you don't have an invite to one of the aforementioned mansions, that is).

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

We’ve long held the opinion that the classic Jersey Shore town, Asbury Park, doesn’t get enough attention . Super accessible from the city, it’s just an hour and fifteen minutes by car on the Garden State Parkway, and only thirty minutes longer if you're traveler from Penn Station on a Bay Head-bound North Jersey Coast Line train. From Asbury Park’s bustling boardwalk to its famous mile-long beach, this town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and action. Experience the exciting local food scene by making stops at Reyla (for Mediterranean small plates) or beachside coffee shop Asbury Park Roastery. Consider staying at the Asbury Ocean Club, Surfside Resort and Residences for an elevated beachside experience or the eclectic ​​Asbury Hotel , which has the perfect rooftop.

Olivia Morelli

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

Sometimes an island is the best escape. Martha’s Vineyard, with its lighthouses , arcades and carousels, sandy shores, and vast landscapes fits the bill. To get there, take a five-hour Seastreak Ferry from Midtown Manhattan, fly from JFK airport, or drive to Falmouth, Massachusetts (about 4.5 hours), and pay for overnight parking before grabbing the 30-minute ferry from there. The colorful, fairytale-ish town of Oak Bluffs is one of our favorite East Coast beach towns ; there, an ideal spot to post up is Summercamp Hotel (rooms from $235 per night). Deeper into the island, stop at Aquinnah, which feels martian-like with its clay-red lighthouse and cliffs.

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

About a four-and-a-half-hour drive

New York’s biggest wine region offers plenty of options for sampling its famous riesling—but wine tasting is hardly all the area has to offer. The adventurous can pencil dive into a gorge or wade under a waterfall. Or stay above water: Canandaigua Sailboard offers paddleboard yoga , kayaking, and windsurfing. Between four and five hours from New York City , the Finger Lakes are just far enough to be a true escape. From Ithaca to quaint Skaneateles, there are a number of places that make for an ideal home base. Boutique hotel Argos Inn in Ithaca (rooms from $180 per night) is one of them. We love the romantic renovated mansion for the original art prints in each room, some by Salvador Dalí. 

The island escape: Bermuda

About a two-hour flight

Out of all of the destinations on this list, Bermuda offers the most drastic change in scenery. It’s pretty unbelievable that this Atlantic island—with its powdery, pale pink beaches, drifting mangroves, and gleaming white churches—is a quick getaway from NYC; the flight from JFK takes just two hours. Jet over and consider sunning on the iconic Horseshoe Bay Beach, snorkeling around a shipwreck, or sipping a rum swizzle with fellow travelers. We have ideas about where to stay, too. You have options: a cheerful yellow one-bedroom bungalow with a rooftop patio in Southampton, as well as a mini villa with waterfront views in Pembroke. Alternatively, surround yourself in high style at the Rosewood Bermuda , the premiere luxury stay on the island. (Need more Bermuda travel inspiration? Explore our destination guide .)

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, three hours by train via Amtrak

Mystic’s maritime history gives this town a classic New England feel. Even today, it remains recognizable by the boats that sail the Mystic River and Long Island Sound. History buffs can immerse themselves in the lore with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum , where there are reproductions of the Mayflower II. For another take on all things aquatic, visit the Mystic Aquarium , where African penguins waddle and Beluga whales swim. Enjoy the charm of eateries like Nana’s Bakery and Pizza , which mills its own flour, as well as the Oyster Club for fresh and locally-caught fish. Stay a night or two at the Whaler’s Inn , which has historical pull (it’s been around since 1818), yet was renovated in 2021. Its modern comforts include four-poster beds, gas fireplaces, water views, and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant, the Shipwright’s Daughter .

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

There’s so much to see in Newport , one of New England’s most storied summer towns. Do up your weekend T-Swift-style with winding coastline drives, half-pound lobster rolls, and wanderings through Gilded Age summer “cottages” as they were called in the 1920s. During the day, take in sweeping Atlantic Ocean and mansion views on the famed Cliff Walk or boogie board at First Beach. Then, when it starts to get dark, visit the Roof Deck at the Vanderbilt hotel for a sunset drink. For a luxury stay, consider spending a couple nights at the aforementioned Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection . If you’re looking for a homey group spot, check out this two-bedroom cottage a few steps from the beach. However you do it, it'll be easy to see why Newport is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC. 

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

About an hour-and-a-half train ride or drive

For an easy camping trip that doesn’t require a car, your spot is Fahnestock State Park . The campsite is near the Cold Spring stop on the Metro-North’s Hudson line—a short Uber ride covers the gap from the train station to the park itself. Squeeze everything you need for a night or two into a backpack , and relish in the empowerment and self-sufficiency of being 100 percent mobile. The hiking trails that run through the park connect to the vast Appalachian Trail, which touches 14 eastern seaboard states from Georgia to Maine . Besides hiking, the park has a beach on Canopus Lake, and fishing on four ponds and two additional lakes. On your way home, stop at Hudson Hil’s for a decadent brunch in the town of Cold Spring (we’re eyeing the Creole omelette) then walk to the train. If you’re looking to expand your journey throughout the region, there are many towns to love and explore in the Hudson River Valley area, including Beacon , Hudson , Kingston, and Rhinebeck.

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

Better known as a winter destination , Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, has a wealth of outdoor recreation in the summer months, too. At glassy, serene Mirror Lake, visitors can paddle out on canoes and kayaks . On the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers will pass the shimmering lake, cedar trees, and a population of otters. The Olympic sites include the magical Cloudsplitter Gondola ride, a rifle range, a glass elevator, a speed skating oval, a zip line park, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. If you're craving some time indoors, don't fret: The area’s old-fashioned movie theater at Tupper Lake Municipal Park, Adirondack State Theater, is currently screening Nope . Bed down at Lake Placid Lodge (rooms from $499 per night), a former summer camp .

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

The Berkshires , in western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut, is one of those places that offers entirely different types of trips with every passing season. In the summer, the region is known for the anticipated Tanglewood season, in which the Boston Symphonic Orchestra and Boston Pops take residence and perform. In the fall, visitors can drive through some of the world’s most vibrant foliage along Route 2 and 7. Come winter, cold-weather sports are on offer—whether you’re looking to downhill ski or snowshoe. With the thaw of spring, hikes with waterfall views are easy to find at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Year-round, the food and drink scene won’t disappoint either: For an artisan cocktail after the sun goes down, visit Berkshire Mountain Distillers ; to enjoy a plate of shrimp gumbo, visit Nudel ; and to savor the notorious local cheeses, visit the North Adams’ Farmers Market. As far as hotels go, we have a few ideas. Restorative Canyon Ranch, Lenox is a four-time Readers’ Choice Awards winner, while Miraval Berkshires is one of New England’s largest and most renowned spas.

The great outdoors: Lake George

About a three-and-a-half-hour drive

Set in the Adirondacks in upstate New York, Lake George offers lots of open space and a slower pace of life. Take in the natural beauty with a scenic drive on NY-9 or NY-418, admire falcons at Bolton Landing, or shack up in a tent at the Lake George Island campsite . Other summer outdoor activities include fishing, cycling down the Warren County Bikeway, and golfing at the breathtaking Top of the World course. Boathouse Bed and Breakfast is the only B&B located directly on the lake , and has the most serene water views.

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

For a low key Long Island alternative to the Hamptons, the bucolic North Fork and adjacent Shelter Island are what you're after. Head first to Greenport, North Fork’s largest town which is known for its marinas, fishing boats, neighboring vineyards, and blooming fields of lavender in July. Sound View Greenport is our pick for where to stay in town. Their fisherman-and-farmer-forward restaurant the Halyard is open, too—don't sleep on the summer truffle and fresh cavatelli. Then, take the ferry from nearby North Haven to Shelter Island, where you'll find hiking trails, osprey, and salt marshes at the Mashomack Nature Preserve, and even more land to explore on the protected beaches or in the acres of forest. If you are strategic about avoid common travel times (Friday evening out of the city, Sunday evening to return), you can be in North Fork in just two hours, making it a surprisingly quick weekend getaway from NYC. 

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

The best place to start in Woodstock may be the slopes of Overlook Mountain. The limestone peak, full of red oaks, firs, and (keep your eyes peeled) timber rattlesnakes, features some interesting ruins, like the eerie remains of Overlook Mountain House, which brought tourists to the Catskills in the 19th century and sits just south of the Overlook fire tower. If privacy is what you’re looking for, you might consider this bright and airy studio loft decorated in a farmhouse style. While you’re there, scoop up quality produce at Sunflower Market , or if you don’t want to turn on an oven in the summer heat, snag a table outdoors at Phoenicia Diner . The cult favorite is a treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Highly recommended: the Phoenicia Smash sandwich (beef griddled into caramelized onion, mustard, mayo, New York cheddar, and pickles on a Brioche bun).

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• Getaways From New York City

19 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

New Yorkers don't need to travel far to travel well.

There are countless ways to spend a weekend in New York City, but sometimes, you just need to escape the grind. The best weekend getaways will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to get back to the hustle and bustle after a few blissful days away.

Fortunately for New Yorkers, an escape from the Big Apple is never more than a few hours away. Whether you envision yourself as a total beach bum or want to walk in the footsteps of America's founding fathers, there are perfect weekend trips from NYC for every type of traveler.

Check out craft breweries in Vermont, watch the famed WaterFire display in Providence, Rhode Island, or make your way to the beach on the Jersey Shore with these weekend getaways from NYC.

1. Long Beach Island, New Jersey: 2-Hour Drive

This barrier island just off the coast of southern New Jersey is a place where life comes to a standstill in the best way possible. Stretching for 20 stunning miles, Long Beach Island is the spot to be for city dwellers looking to get away, bask in the sun, or go on a little sightseeing adventure.

On the island, visitors can climb 217 steps to the top of the Barnegat Lighthouse , also known as "Old Barney," to take in views of Barnegat Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, or they can shop for coastal-inspired kitchenware and swimsuit coverups in Viking Village , where old fishing shacks have been lovingly converted into cafés and boutiques.

For those traveling in a pack, there's Pinky Shrimp's Seafood Company , where you and your entire crew can gather for the "fried family feast" of shrimp, scallops, crab cakes, and more. Another stellar dining option is Mud City Crab House , located just across the causeway in Manahawkin, where guests can order oysters on the half shell and enjoy a cold drink around the outdoor fire pits. Both restaurants are closed during winter.

As for where to lay your head at night, try booking a stay at Hotel LBI , a luxury hotel boasting 102 well-appointed rooms, fine dining establishments, and a rooftop terrace where you can watch the sunset with a glass of champagne in hand.

2. Boston: 4-Hour Drive

Violet Smirnova/Travel + Leisure

If you're into history, look no further than a long weekend away in Boston.

Spend time walking along the famed Freedom Trail to trace the city's history as it weaves through several of Boston's most charming neighborhoods. Stop into places like Old North Church , the Old State House (site of the Boston Massacre), and the Paul Revere House to get a taste of what life here was like around the time of our nation's birth. (Pro tip: try to plan your trip around The Head Of The Charles Regatta , which draws thousands of spectators each year to watch elite rowers compete in the three-day race.)

As a major city, Boston has no shortage of excellent hotel options, including the Omni Parker House , the oldest continuously operating hotel in the country. Its own history runs deep and counts both Malcolm X and Ho Chi Minh as ex-employees, and writers like Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow as former guests.

For an even more upscale stay, book a night at the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston . Centrally located in Back Bay, it's a prime spot to post up for a weekend, and its concierge team can curate experiences to help you make the most of your time. It also comes with all the amenities one would ever need, including complimentary Birria bikes, three restaurants, a spa, and a swimming pool with floor-to-ceiling views of the city. For New Yorkers who don't drive or don't want to drive, Amtrak's Acela service takes you from Manhattan to Boston in four hours.

3. Burlington, Vermont: 5.5-Hour Drive

With breweries dotted all around this small city, Burlington, Vermont is a beer lover's paradise. Make sure to sign up with City Brew Tours for a behind-the-scenes look at how some of the best beers coming out of the Queen City are made. True brew enthusiasts should try to plan their visit around the Vermont Brewers Festival , held every July.

Beyond beer, Burlington also boasts a lively waterfront scene. Head to Waterfront Park on Lake Champlain for a stroll or cycle along the eight-mile Burlington Greenway. Hop off your bike for a quick visit to ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain , an interactive science museum dedicated to the health of the lake, or rent a boat from the Community Sailing Center to get on the water yourself.

For a luxurious getaway, stay at the Essex Resort & Spa . Nestled on 18 verdant acres just outside the city, this charming hotel has two swimming pools, a spa, and hands-on cooking classes taught by chefs from the resort’s farm-to-table restaurant.

4. The Adirondacks, New York: 4-to-5-Hour Drive

Lauren Breedlove/Travel + Leisure

When the city becomes too much, it's time to head upstate — to the Adirondack Mountains, specifically.

A weekend in the Adirondacks typically means hiking, kayaking, cliff diving, and for the more adventurous, white water rafting (best experienced in the spring, when the Hudson River is at its most intense). Writer Lauren Breedlove described her outdoorsy experience in the Adirondacks for Travel + Leisure : "We couldn't get enough of the canoes, going on morning and evening expeditions, keeping an eye out for possible moose, and uncovering art in nature as we paddled through an area with heart-shaped lily pads."

For a unique stay, reserve a room at The Point , a former Rockefeller family retreat overlooking Saranac Lake. Be sure to book early, as the property has just 11 guest rooms. In 2017, it underwent a multimillion-dollar renovation led by architect Andrew Chary, who honored the hotel's past and restored its original brass and chrome fixtures and stone fireplaces. Yes, it's rustic, but that doesn't mean it isn't fancy. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, dinner at the hotel is a black-tie event, so make sure to pack your finest attire. Of course, if you can't get a room, there's always The Sagamore Resort , a luxurious Colonial Revival grande dame right on Lake George.

5. Providence, Rhode Island: 3.5-Hour Drive

Providence, Rhode Island, exudes all the charm you'd expect from a great New England city. It's a place where you'll still find cobblestone streets and narrow river walks alongside modern dining establishments, world-class theater, and museums to rival those found in any of its larger counterparts.

While in Providence, head to Waterplace Park . Channel your inner Venetian by booking a ride along the city's rivers with La Gondola , or plan your trip around WaterFire , an art installation that lights up the rivers with almost 100 braziers on several weekends throughout the summer and fall.

After catching a show, head to Oberlin , a modern seafood spot consistently ranked among the best restaurants in the U.S. Then spend the night at ultra-cool, 52-key The Dean, where rooms are outfitted with a mix of custom and vintage furniture and original artwork adorning the walls. Or, for a bit more history, stay at Graduate Providence , previously known as the Providence Biltmore. Each of the rooms and common spaces pays homage to the city's past with vintage furnishings and artifacts.

6. Mystic, Connecticut: 2.5-Hour Drive

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

As far as picture-perfect villages go, they don't get much better than Mystic, Connecticut. The adorable town is home to fewer than 5,000 permanent residents, making it a great place to go for a quaint getaway.

It may be small, but the town has no shortage of activities. If you're traveling as a family, there is the famous Mystic Aquarium , where you can spend an entire day roaming around and learning all about your favorite sea creatures. Want to see marine life in their natural habitat? Book a summer sail with Argia Mystic Cruises . The company's 81-foot schooner takes visitors around the seaport and the nearby islands. Guests are encouraged to bring their own picnics and beverages (including beer and wine, just no hard liquor).

Cap off a visit to Mystic by staying at Ocean House , located in nearby Watch Hill. The famed inn is 25 minutes away and provides guests with even more New England charm, thanks to its meticulous restoration, stunning ocean views, and world-class amenities.

7. Philadelphia: 2-Hour Drive

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The City of Brotherly Love beckons a day trip, weekend, or a getaway for as long as you need. Arrive by car or take an 80-minute Amtrak ride for a more relaxing journey.

There is so much to see and do in this vibrant city, including a few classics like snapping a picture in front of The Liberty Bell, touring Independence Hall, and running up the "Rocky Steps" at the Philadelphia Museum of Art — doing your best Stallone face the entire way.

The city has a high-end culinary scene — chef Michael Solomonov's Zahav and Laser Wolf , both serving Israeli cuisine, are must-visits. But you also need to take part in a classic Philly tradition and order a cheesesteak. To get a taste of as many different versions as you can, head to Reading Terminal Market — one of the country's oldest public markets — where you can also pick up some local artisan goods.

After you've filled your belly, you'll need a good rest. Stay at The Logan, Curio Collection by Hilton , where you'll get a room with not only a plush bed but also modern decor and local artwork, as well as hotel amenities like a full-service spa, a steakhouse, and a rooftop terrace.

8. Washington, D.C.: 4-Hour Drive

Victoria Chamberlain/Travel + Leisure

The capital's endless activities fit all interests and travel palates. Visitors can lean into D.C.'s history by touring the famous monuments on the National Mall and delve into worlds of dinosaurs, art history, and the like in any of the 16 Smithsonian museums in the city. To experience the top attractions in a more unique way, you could always hop on a night tour by D.C. Trolley Tours and view them under the stars.

After you tick off the usual highlights, you should explore the places on Washingtonians' hot list: local art exhibits at Dupont Underground , jazz concerts in the National Gallery of Art sculpture garden, and the expansive farmers market in Columbia Heights , to name a few.

Once you're wiped out from sightseeing, check in to The St. Regis Washington, D.C. Located just two blocks from The White House, the hotel has hosted A-listers and dignitaries alike for nearly 100 years — and it's your turn to join them.

9. Newport, Rhode Island: 3-Hour Drive

Another popular Rhode Island weekend getaway, Newport has long been a haven for New Yorkers escaping the fast pace of the city in exchange for a slower way of life.

Here, you can explore the former homes of some truly rich and fabulous people on a self-guided tour of the iconic Newport Mansions . Follow that up with a stroll along the 3.5-mile Newport Cliff Walk , which provides some of the most breathtaking views along the entire Eastern Seaboard. You can get out on the water yourself by renting a sailboat and exploring Narragansett Bay.

Finally, live (briefly) like the Newport elite with a stay at The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection , a hotel built in 1909 as the Newport County YMCA. With just 33 guest rooms, it's a place where you'll enjoy five-star service just as a Vanderbilt would.

10. Nantucket, Massachusetts: 7-Hour Drive and Ferry Ride

Atlantide Phototravel/Getty Images

If Nantucket, Massachusetts is on your "must-see" list for a short getaway, you might consider hopping on an 80-minute flight rather than spending seven hours driving and ferrying to the island. No matter how you arrive, you're guaranteed to have a relaxing time on this slice of pure Americana.

Nantucket is brimming with activities — renting a bike and going for a slow pedal around town, taking in the Instagram-worthy shingled homes, cruising through the harbor, or casting a line on an organized fishing trip — to help you slow down and appreciate the little things. The world's your oyster in Nantucket (and the local oysters are all yours, too).

While Nantucket still has its small-town vibe, it's blossoming into a global destination. "There was a real energy in the town, and there was also a surprising sense of openness and accessibility," reported Akash Kapur for T+L . "While entry was, in the latter half of the last century, largely restricted to certain classes and races, Nantucket was now teeming with a diverse population."

Cap off your very serene day with a stay at White Elephant . With its stunning lawn along the waterfront, you can both start and end your days with the soothing sounds of the crashing waves outside.

11. Portland, Maine: 5-Hour Drive

Portland, Maine is a place where everyone can find a slice of vacation bliss. From above-average antique and vintage shops to a craft beer scene that must be sipped and savored to ample outdoor space for roaming on a warm day, the city is suitable for group and solo trips alike.

Erinne Magee, a lifelong Mainer and former Portland resident, reported on the best things to do in Portland for T+L . Her list includes visiting the Portland Observatory for 360-degree views of the city, taking a ferry to Peaks Island, and leisurely exploring the cobblestone streets of the Old Port neighborhood.

Seafood lovers shouldn't pass up the lobster dinner at Eventide . The raw bar and restaurant is well known for scrumptious New England bites — including the classic lobster roll.

After dinner, settle in for the night at The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection , whose historic downtown building once housed the Portland Press Herald . The hotel honors its history with a nostalgic newspaper theme throughout. "If you have a thing for old typewriters or simply want to visit a building that celebrates art in all forms, stop into The Press Hotel for a beverage and board game," reported Magee. "You can also explore the lower level museum featuring Maine artists or type your own special something on the typewriter in the lobby."

If you don't mind driving a bit, White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection , located about 40 minutes outside the city in Kennebunkport, will grant you an unforgettable stay. The drive will allow you to further explore Maine's stunning landscapes, and the hotel itself is a true gem, home to an award-winning restaurant.

12. Hudson Valley, New York: 2.5-Hour Drive

Don Eim/Travel + Leisure

For a weekend trip that feels like it's just a stone's throw away, head up north to the Hudson Valley for a retreat filled with fine dining and wine. The Culinary Institute of America calls the Hudson Valley home — while in the area, pay a visit (it's been called one of the most beautiful campuses in the country), and explore the greater culinary scene, from Michelin-rated restaurants to casual bakeries and cafés. Dinner by acclaimed chef Jean-Georges at The Inn at Pound Ridge is not to be missed.

For a drink, embark on the Dutchess Wine Trail , which leads to world-class vineyards and delicious tasting rooms. When you're ready to retire for the night, head over to The Maker , a hotel that radiates class and culture.

13. Farmington, Pennsylvania: 6-Hour Drive

Farmington, Pennsylvania, is perhaps the quirkiest little gem on this list of weekend getaway destinations. It's a place to get out in nature and dive deep into the fun-loving culture.

During your stay in Farmington, visit nearby Laurel Caverns , which contains the state's largest cave. While the cave itself is fascinating, it's made even more so by the colorful lights installed inside. For design admirers, there are not one but two Frank Lloyd Wright homes nearby, including the famous Fallingwater home, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which you can visit on a group or personal tour.

Then, drive over to the ever-popular Nemacolin for chateau accommodations and experiences from axe throwing to cosmic bowling to acupuncture.

14. Cape May, New Jersey: 2.5-Hour Drive

There are family-friendly getaway spots, and then there's Cape May. Located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, this stunning oceanfront community is at the top of just about every East Coast "best weekend getaway" list.

Rent a cruiser from Cape Island Bikes or take a trolley tour to see as much of the colorful town as possible, or go on an afternoon cruise to see Cape May from the water and maybe even spot a whale or two while you're out there. For dinner, reserve a table in advance at the Blue Pig Tavern , serving surf and turf classics with farm-fresh ingredients, and grab a couple of beers under string lights while listening to live music at Exit Zero Filling Station while you wait.

Dig a little deeper into the Americana vibe with an overnight at The Virginia Hotel & Cottages , a 24-room boutique hotel in a lovingly restored building constructed in 1879. It also has four cottages.

15. Bermuda: 2-Hour Flight

Alessandra Amodio/Travel + Leisure

Plot twist: While Bermuda isn't exactly within driving distance, it's actually a shorter commute from NYC than many of the above destinations. A two-hour flight will land you in a subtropical paradise. In fact, travel journalist Alison Fox reported for T+L that Bermuda is cheaper and faster from NYC than the Hamptons: "The affordable direct flights — including the brand-new JetBlue one from LGA — and the easy-to-use bus system to help travelers get around definitely make Bermuda a compelling alternative to domestic travel this summer."

On the main island, bask in the sun, swim in the crystalline sea, drink rum swizzles at The Swizzle Inn , make your own scent at the Lili Bermuda Perfumery , visit natural wonders like The Blue Hole Park, and finish off the five-star visit with a stay at a five-star hotel. Rosewood Bermuda is set on a sprawling, private stretch of pink sand beach, the perfect spot to be marooned for a long weekend.

16. Lake Placid, New York: 5-Hour Drive

Tanya Nikolic/Travel + Leisure

Lake Placid is another farther-flung location, but it’s well worth the journey if you want to enjoy a year-round outdoor destination. In the spring, summer, and fall, visitors will be delighted to find a dazzling array of outdoor activities, from hiking through  High Falls Gorge , a 22-acre nature park boasting four waterfalls, to taking a dip in the 128-acre Mirror Lake . 

Of course, this place is also a winter paradise – famed for hosting the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Powder hounds can get their adrenaline rush on the slopes of  Whiteface Mountain , which offers 22 miles of terrain for skiing and snowboarding. 

Start at least one day with a hearty plate of eggs, a breakfast sandwich, or the decadent French toast fondue from  The Breakfast Club, Etc . And for later-in-the-day fare, look no further than  Smoke Signals , a BBQ joint with finger-licking brisket, ribs, and pulled pork.

Check into the  The Lake Placid Stagecoach Inn , a delightful boutique inn housed in a building from the 1700s that still boasts plenty of historical charm. 

17. The Poconos, Pennsylvania: 2-Hour Drive 

Richard T. Nowitz/Getty Images

The Pocono Mountains are another delightful outdoorsy destination prime for getting out of the city. Come here for a little family fun like visiting  Camelback Mountain , a massive adventure park that will leave kids and kids at heart smiling from ear to ear. There’s also the  Lehigh Gorge Scenic Railway , which will zip you through the stunning local scenery, and  miles upon miles of hiking  through old-growth forests in the Poconos trail system. 

Remember, The Poconos cover about 2,400 square miles, so plan your dining according to the area you want to visit. A couple of not-to-miss spots in the region include Wilkes-Barre's  Cork Bar and Restaurant , serving seafood with an Italian twist (think roasted red pepper gnocchi shrimp and shrimp and crab bolognese), along with  Native  in Honesdale, an upscale eatery focusing on dishes made from locally sourced produce. 

Lay your head at any number of area hotels. Among the best are  Cove Haven Resort , a kitschy, old-school, couples-only hotel famed for its heart-shaped tubs, and  Woodloch Resort , a family-friendly resort where all ages can have fun in the great outdoors. 

18. Washington, Connecticut: 2-Hour Drive 

Prisma by Dukas/Getty Images

Find rural bliss just two hours outside the city with a visit to Washington, Connecticut, where verdant landscapes are abundant but so too are the cultural attractions. Dive deep into the region at the  Institute For American Indian Studies , which traces the lives of Indigenous peoples back more than 10,000 years. Get your fill of fresh air at the  Hollister House Garden , a massive green space open in the spring and summer to showcase the local blooms, and get a taste of something locally brewed at  Hopkins Vineyard , a heritage farm that produces award-winning wines. 

Then, dig into more local favorites at The 202 Tavern , serving classic American food made by local purveyors, and  G.W. Tavern , whose menu features comforting classics like French onion soup and chicken wings. 

The area may not have a lot of accommodations, but what it lacks in quantity, it makes up for with pure quality. The elegant  Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection will leave you totally renewed thanks to its inviting and cozy guest rooms and its in-depth wellness programming, including traditional spa services and expert-led health coaching. 

19. North Fork, New York: 2-Hour Drive

MikeRega/Getty Images

Escape to the North Fork, New York whenever you need a Long Island getaway without all the pomp and circumstance. Just two hours from the city (traffic permitting), this is the spot to be for a beach day, a great glass of wine, and a little farm-style fun. You really can’t go wrong at any of its beaches, but great options include  Wildwood State Park , which also includes a 600-acre forest, and  Orient Beach State Park at the end of North Fork.

According to Hannah Walhout, a former senior editor at T+L, "This part of Long Island was always a sleepy place — worlds away from the big-money scene of the nearby Hamptons. But these days, more and more city dwellers are making the trek, drawn by the peninsula’s rolling coastline, rambling vineyards, and hyper-local gastronomy."

After basking in the sun, head to the waterfront  Kontokosta Winery to enjoy panoramic views of Long Island Sound with your vino. Don't leave without stopping by  8 Hands Farm  for farm store goodies to take back home. For more food,  The Halyard  has locally sourced produce and fresh-caught fish, and  Bruce & Son  is beloved for its all-day brunch. 

Round out your vacation with a stay at  Sound View Greenport , a design-forward hotel on 14 waterfront acres, or  The Lin Beach House , a chic guesthouse with clawfoot tubs in every guest room. 

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The Best New York Itinerary: Visiting NYC On A Budget

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Planning a New York Itinerary is no easy feat. Choosing from the copious number of NYC sights, incredible things to do and endless options of delicious food can be overwhelming. And, as New York City is ranked as one of the most expensive cities in the world, visiting NYC on a budget can add even more anxiety to the planning process. No need to fret. Our New York City Itinerary is packed with everything your need for your budget trip to NYC!

Best Trip to New York on a Budget

For our trips to New York City, we challenge ourselves to experience NYC on a budget. Even for a short stay, costs can add up quickly when paying for expensive admission to sights, pricey meals and high-dollar accommodations.

However, thrifty travelers need not worry. There is plenty to do and see (and eat!) in New York without breaking the bank. We’ve created a Budget NYC Itinerary that includes iconic sights, a ferry ride, neighborhood walks and classic, cheap eats.

We believe this is the Best New York Itinerary for budget travelers, as we focus on the free things to do in NYC. In fact, it might be the absolute cheapest way to visit New York. However, we also happen to think that these are some of the absolute best things to do in New York City! 

Planning a New York Budget Itinerary

When we decided to visit NYC on a budget, we found multiple resources offering suggestions of what to do in New York on a budget, but nothing that wrapped it all up into an easy-to-follow itinerary. 

After spending hours planning our trip to NYC on a budget, we came up with the perfect way to visit the city without going broke. We are sharing our detailed outline of how to spend 4 days in NYC on a budget so that fellow travelers can easily plan their trip. 

In addition to our day-by-day New York City itinerary planner, we include detailed tips for a New York budget trip – such as where to find an affordable place to stay, how to get there and what to pack. 

Just like the city itself, this New York DIY Trip Plan is humungous . It contains absolutely everything you need for planning a trip to New York on a budget.

Pro Tip: We suggest using our Trip Planning Templates to research and organize your NYC vacation!

How Many Days to Spend in New York

We are detailing a day-by-day plan for a New York 4 Day Itinerary – but what if you have more – or less time in NYC? No problem! We provide NYC itinerary planner tips on how to spend your time in the city.

Whether you have 1 day in New York or are planning 7 days in New York, you can use our sample New York itineraries, which we feature at the end of the post.

Save, Pin or Bookmark our NYC Trip Plan to create your best itinerary for New York City!

NYC Budget Trip: New York Itinerary Planner Tips

Before we dive into our incredibly comprehensive New York City Itinerary, we have some essential tips that will help you prepare for a trip to NYC on a budget. 

NYC on Budget: Subway and Shoes

Our suggested itinerary for New York covers some ground; up to 10 miles a day! In order to keep up, you will need two things: comfortable travel shoes and a MetroCard. An unlimited weekly MetroCard costs $34, plus $1 for the card. More info about using the subways and the MetroCard are included at the end of the article.

NYC Sightseeing Map

We provide a New York itinerary map link for each day’s adventures. But if you are visiting New York City for the first time and are unfamiliar with the area, a paper NYC map may help. In fact, we recommend getting a New York City Map in advance and spending a little time studying it. Having a separate NYC Subway Map is also helpful.

Sightseeing in New York City on a Budget

The big (not so) secret tip on how to do NYC cheap is to skip the expensive, ticketed attractions. In our 4-day New York trip plan, we include many free and cheap attractions. However, our New York trip itinerary does not include visiting any museums or skyscrapers. Don’t worry, there are plenty of great things to see and do in New York City without paying for pricey tickets!

That said, our NYC sightseeing route passes by many of those high-dollar attractions, so they are easy to visit if within your budget. Now, we have a few tips for how to balance New York on the cheap with expensive admission to top attractions. 

Top Tips for Sightseeing NY on the Cheap

Soaring to the top of skyscrapers (like the Empire State Building , Top of the Rock or One World Observation Deck ) is expensive. Rather than going to the top of all 3 buildings, choose just one. Or, if you are really trying to see NY on the cheap, eliminate them altogether.

Instead, take in the city skyline views from a free vantage point – like the Staten Island Ferry, The High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge or Roosevelt Island.

Likewise, spending time at a museum (like The Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Natural History ) requires ticket. If one of the pricey museums is high on your New York travel itinerary must-sees, pick just one. 

The New York Botanical Garden is another top attraction that charges a steep admission price. We suggest skipping it in favor of the free NYC parks and green spaces. Swap out visiting the NY Botanical Garden with other outdoor things to do in NYC cheap – like Central Park, Prospect Park and the Hudson River Greenway.

Top Tip : We chat more about ticketed sights and money-saving NYC Sightseeing Passes later in the article!

About Our New York Itinerary 4 Days

With 4 days in NYC, you can see the major attractions, feel the distinct vibe of New York neighborhoods and get a taste of some of the city’s best food. Our robust and easy-to-follow NYC itinerary will help make your trip planning simple!

Budget Itinerary for NYC: Sights, Info and Directions

For each sight in our New York tour itinerary, we include information, facts and (if applicable) a link to more info. To help you better navigate, we indicate which is the closest subway station to the first sight of the day. We also include a link to Google Maps so that you can get directions from wherever you are. 

When visiting New York on a budget, the best way to get around is on your own two feet. In our NYC trip itinerary, we group sights together on self-guided walking tours. However, if public transportation is required, we have included the recommended subway route. 

Bathrooms and Water Fountains

Our New York Itinerary includes long stretches of being outdoors and eating on-the-go, so we’ve indicated where there are convenient public bathrooms along the route. With so much walking in our budget New York trip plan, it is important to stay hydrated. There are numerous public drinking fountains where you can fill up water bottles along the way. 

NEW YORK BUDGET TRAVEL ITINERARY

Now that we have covered the important details of planning a trip to NYC on a budget, we are ready to share our best New York trip plan!  

Day 1 of your New York Vacation on a Budget

On the first day of your 4-day trip to New York City, see the city’s top sights. Start in Lower Manhattan to get a view of the Statue of Liberty; then embark on a self-guided walking tour through Midtown to the most iconic NYC buildings and sights. Start at Subway Station: South Ferry or Whitehall St .

LOWER MANHATTAN

Lower Manhattan is the district located on the southern tip of Manhattan that is often referred to as Downtown. The district is both historic and modern – and it is the perfect place to kick off your budget New York trip!

Statue of Liberty via the Free Staten Island Ferry

There is no doubt that Lady Liberty is one of New York’s most recognizable sights. Every visitor should get a look at her – which is why we include it as the first thing to do on your budget NYC trip. 

Expensive Statue of Liberty Tours allow visitors to get up close and personal, but the cost may exceed your New York travel budget. No worries – there is a free way to get a fabulous view: The Free Staten Island Ferry. In fact, we think riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in New York City on a budget. 

The free ferry transports passengers from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island. The route passes by Ellis Island and Liberty Island, providing a stunning view of the Statue of Liberty…and the ride doesn’t cost a dime! In addition to the views of Lady Liberty, passengers also get a phenomenal view of the NYC skyline. 

Taking the Staten Island Ferry

To catch the ferry from Lower Manhattan, simply go to the Whitehall Terminal, get in line, get on the ferry and get a spot on the starboard (right) side. Ferries make the journey at least every half hour; get the full schedule on the official website .

When you arrive at Staten Island, you must disembark and circle around to the entrance to ride back. Once back in Manhattan, spend time exploring the NYC Financial District in Lower Manhattan on foot. 

Lower Manhattan Walking Tour

The best way to see the sights in Lower Manhattan on a New York Low Budget Trip is on a self-guided walking tour. The district is highlighted by historic places, iconic buildings and poignant memorials. The 1.5-mile walk begins at The Battery and ends at The Oculus – and should take about 1-2 hours. U se this Map for walking directions. 

The Battery

The Battery (previously known as Battery Park) is the reserved green space at the southern tip of Manhattan. The name dates to the time when the area housed a fort and artillery batteries for defense purposes. 

Charging Bull on Bowling Green

The iconic Charging Bull sculpture was created by artist Arturo Di Modica in 1989 (following the stock market crash of 1987) as a nod to the self-determined (some might say bullish ) spirit of America to prosper. Weighing 3.5 tons, the bronze sculpture made its first appearance in front of the New York Stock Exchange, left there mysteriously by the artist in the middle of the night. It was quickly removed and relocated to nearby Bowling Green, where it stands today.

It is estimated that 1,000 tourists stop to see the sculpture each day, many posing with it for a photo and then rubbing its nose, horns and genitals (no joke) for good luck. 

Wall Street and the New York City Stock Exchange

Wall Street is at the center of Manhattan’s Financial District. Standing at the corner of Wall Street and Broad Street is the New York Stock Exchange, one of the world’s top financial markets. Even travelers who visit New York City on a budget should check out the famous Financial District.

Running 8 blocks to the East River, Wall Street is also home to the Museum of American Finance, Old Stonington Custom House and Federal Hall (where George Washington was sworn in as the first United States president in 1789). 

New York City Trinity Church

The first Trinity Church was built on the location in 1698, but was destroyed by the Great New York City Fire of 1776. The second Trinity Church was built in 1790, and was the place of prayer for President Washington. The current Trinity Church with its soaring spire was built in 1846 and, at the time, was the tallest building in the US. 

The Sphere in Liberty Park

Opened in 2016, Liberty Park is located south of One World Trade Center. The raised park provides an elevated view of the National September 11 Memorial. At the center of Liberty Park is The Sphere.

The 25-foot-tall sculpture once stood in the plaza between the Twin Towers. After the 9/11 attacks, The Sphere was recovered from the rubble at Ground Zero, surprisingly intact. Left in the condition in which it was found, The Sphere was first placed in Battery Park, but was relocated to Liberty Park, closer to its original location. 

9-11 Memorial

The National 9-11 Memorial honors and remembers the nearly 3,000 people who were killed on September 11, 2001 – and is a must-see on every itinerary planner for New York.

In place of where the Twin Towers once stood are now two reflecting pools. Etched in the railing surrounding the pools are names of the victims in New York, Pennsylvania and at the Pentagon, as well as those who died in a World Trade Center bombing in 1993.

Among the many trees at the monument is The Survivor Tree, which was discovered in the wreckage but still lives. It serves as a reminder of resilience and rebirth. The 9-11 Memorial Museum offers additional detailed information. 

One World Trade Center

Also known as Freedom Tower, One World Trade Center was built from 2006 to 2013 on the north side of the 9/11 Memorial. The building stands at 1,776 feet (the year of US independence), which makes it the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the 7th tallest building in the world.

The One World Observatory , which offers a birds’ eye view over the city, is located on the 102nd Floor. However, when you visit New York on a budget, you can simply stand at the base of the tower and look up at it. 

To the east of the 9/11 Memorial is The Oculus, which was designed to look like a dove in flight. The unique building, which serves as a memorial and houses both a train station and a mall, cost an astounding $4 billion to build (most certainly NYC’s most expensive train station ever). From The Oculus, walk to the Cortlandt Street station and take the subway to East 23nd Street Station.

  Map of Sights in Lower Manhattan for Day 1

NYC Midtown marks the middle of Manhattan – and it is the district you will explore in the afternoon of Day 1 of your New York trip on a budget. Walking among the classic skyscrapers is one of the best things to do in NYC – and it’s absolutely free!

LUNCH – Shake Shack at Madison Square Park

Before you set off on your discovery of Midtown, stop for a budget Manhattan lunch at Shake Shack. In 2001, Shake Shack was just another food cart in Madison Square Park. By 2004, they transformed from a cart into a permanent residence, grilling up hot dogs and burgers for long lines of waiting customers. Today, the popular fast-food chain has more than 400 locations…but nothing beats the original!

Midtown Walking Tour

Our self-guided Midtown Manhattan walking tour passes by the best buildings in NYC. The route starts at the Flatiron Building and ends in the Broadway Theater District. The walk covers about 3 miles and should take 2-3 hours to complete. Use this Map  for walking directions to Midtown sights.

Flatiron Building

The 22-story, triangular Flatiron Building was completed in 1902 – at the time, it was one of the tallest buildings in the city. The name comes from the design resembling a clothes iron. Stand with your back toward the pointed tip of the Flatiron Building for a great view of the Empire State Building!

Empire State Building

The Art Deco Empire State Building has been a symbol of New York since it was completed in 1931. It’s total height, including the antenna, is 1,454 feet and it reigned as the world’s tallest building from 1931 until 1970.

For many visitors, a trip to the 86th and 102nd story observation decks is a must-do in NYC. However, the ticket is a bit pricey, so you will need to determine if you can squeeze it into your New York travel budget. 

New York Public Library

The main branch of the New York Public Library opened in 1911 and is an important NYC landmark. At the entrance, two stone lions (named Patience and Fortitude) guard the doors. However, the real gem of the library is the Rose Main Reading Room, which is lined with thousands of books. 

Bryant Park

Behind the library is Bryant Park. Designated a park in 1847, in the 1970s Bryant Park was the site of unruly rallies and drug deals. In 1988, the park was completely renovated, including the bathrooms, which had been closed for 35 years.

Today, the bathrooms are an odd highlight of the park, as the public toilets are said to be the nicest in the entire city (complete with floral arrangements and an attendant). Bryant Park is also home to one of the best NYC Christmas Markets!  

New York City Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Station has been a hub of NYC transportation since the year 1913. Today 750,000 people pass through GCT every day, not only to hop a train, but also to visit the shops and restaurants within the terminal.

First time visitors, however, will want to walk through the Main Concourse to look up at the impressive zodiac ceiling and the classic opal clock perched above the information booth. Public Bathrooms. 

Chrysler Building

Built in 1930 for the Chrysler car corporation, the Art Deco Chrysler Building features a ‘crown’ of steel (not a crown of hub caps, which is a popular urban myth). The building held the title as tallest building, but only for 11 months, until the Empire State Building was completed. The observation deck has been closed for decades, but fans of Art Deco and historic places might want to take a peek inside the lobby, which is the only portion open to the public. 

St. Patrick’s Cathedral

Build between 1858 and 1878 (and replacing Old St. Patrick’s in Little Italy), St. Patrick’s Cathedral is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic church in North America. Main features include the 330-foot spires, the stained-glass Rose window, the Tiffany & Co altars (of St. Louis and St. Michael) and as well as the manger scene during Christmas. 

Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center is a complex of 19 buildings, originally designed and developed between 1930 and 1939 by the Rockefeller family. The Art Deco structures were declared both a New York City Landmark and a National Historic Landmark in the 1980s. Among the most popular buildings are the Top of the Rock and Radio City Music Hall.

The two most recognizable statues at Rockefeller Center are Prometheus (a glittering statue in the Lower Plaza fountain) and Atlas (a 45-foot-tall sculpture across from St. Patrick’s Cathedral). The Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink are main attractions during wintertime in NYC. 

Top of the Rock Observation Deck: The observation deck at Top of the Rock is another amazing viewpoint. In fact, we prefer the view from Top of the Rock over the Empire State Building. If you can fit the admission price into your NYC trip budget, we suggest heading up!

Radio City Music Hall

Home of The Rockettes dance company, Radio City Music Hall opened in 1932 featuring (at the time) the world’s largest auditorium. In 1978, the building was designated a New York City Landmark. Today, the 7-story-high neon signs glow bright and the theater is still used for performances and shows. 

Times Square

Nicknamed “The Center of the Universe,” Times Square is part of the entertainment district in NYC. It is probably the busiest, most congested area of the city (an estimated 330,000 people walk through Times Square each day). However, it is not a square at all, but two triangles created by the crisscrossing of 7th Avenue and Broadway.

Electronic billboards featuring advertisements light up the square – day and night – and brand name shops line the streets. Consider popping into the Hershey’s Store for a free mini-chocolate bar. The Times Square Ball that drops annually at midnight on December 31 to mark the new year occurs at One Times Square on the southern end.

Broadway Theater District

Although there is only one Broadway Theater, there are actually 41 theaters in New York’s Theater District that are collectively known as Broadway. Highly regarded as the top theater performances in the world, tickets are extremely expensive.

However, even on a cheap NYC trip, you might be able to get more affordable entry to Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway shows – and TKTS sells deeply discounted tickets the day of the show.

Besides seeking out the one-and-only Broadway Theater, others that may be of interest are the famous 1970s disco, Studio 54 and Concert Hall, Carnegie Hall. 

DINNER IN MIDTOWN MANHATTAN

Now that you have discovered how to see New York on a budget and taken in some of the top sights, you have undoubtedly worked up an appetite! The good news is, we have two Midtown dining recommendations where you can eat in NYC on the cheap. 

The Halal Guys Food Cart

The Halal Guys is a classic New York success story. What began in 1990 as a hot dog cart transformed into filling a void in the Halal food market – and now they have more than 200 franchised locations. However, the original cart at West 53rd and 6th Avenue still operates, cranking out platters and sandwiches of chicken or gyro (or mix) topped with their secret ‘white’ or ‘red’ sauce starting at $9. Reviews for The Halal Guys .

Xi’An Famous Foods

Xi’An Famous is another well-known budget food stop in Midtown. The menu features a combination of Chinese and Middle Eastern fare, which is found in the city of Xi’An, China. The ‘cheap’ option is their Spicy Cumin Lamb Burger, but for a little more, the dumplings are even better! 

Map of Sights in Midtown for Day 1 

Day 2 of your NYC Trip on a Budget

On the second day of your 4-day trip to New York, wander the city’s most-loved and largest park and explore two often-missed neighborhoods: Roosevelt Island and East Harlem. Start at Subway Station: Cathedral Pkwy

CENTRAL PARK

Every New York Itinerary should include a visit to Central Park – and with four days in New York, there is ample time to see the many attractions. While the museums charge a fee to enter, the park itself is free to visit – so it is easy to include in a budget trip to New York!

Even if you plan a trip to NYC on a budget, you may want to splurge for entry into one of these museums. While there are many museums in or near Central Park, the top two are The Met and the American Museum of Natural History . 

Central Park Walking Tour – Part 1

Start your exploration of the west side of Central Park on a self-guided walking tour from north to south visiting some of the most features. The route extends 3.5 miles and should take about 2-3 hours. Use this Map for directions.

1. North Woods, 2. The Ravine, 3. The Loch

One of the most secluded and natural sections of Central park, North Woods, The Ravine and The Loch are also the most beautiful part of the park. The wooded area features ponds, streams and waterfalls.

4. North Meadow

The North Meadow is comprised of 23 acres of open space, which is most often used for organized sports in the summertime.

5. Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Built as a temporary water supply for New York City in the 1860s, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir holds one billion gallons of water. That would only last the city 4 hours today!

6. Great Lawn

Located in the center of Central Park, the Great Lawn has been the site of many concerts, like Simon and Garfunkel, Bon Jovi and the New York Philharmonic. Public Bathroom at south end.

7. Belvedere Castle

Built in 1869, the fairytale Belvedere Castle provides fabulous views to the north (over Great Lawn) and to the south (over the Ramble). Weather instruments are hosted on the castle’s tower, allowing weathermen around the world to report the current weather in Central Park.  

8. The Ramble

Designed as a natural landscape, the Ramble is one of the popular places to visit in Central Park. The 38 acres of woods features several intertwining paths.

9. Strawberry Fields (and 10. The Dakota)

Dedicated to famed Beatles member John Lennon – and named after one of his songs, “Strawberry Fields Forever” – the tear-shaped garden (designed by Yoko Ono) is classified a Quiet Zone for meditation. At the center is a black-and-white tiled mosaic, spelling out “Imagine,” the title of the best-selling song.

The Dakota, or The Dakota Apartments, is a historic Renaissance structure on the northwest corner of 72nd Street and Central Park West. The building is where John Lennon lived from 1973 until he was fatally shot in front of it in 1980.

11. Tavern on the Green

A restaurant since 1934 (and a sheep fold for the 700 sheep that grazed in Central Park’s Sheep Meadow before that), Tavern on the Green is an NYC landmark restaurant serving upscale cuisine and classic cocktails. While a meal there isn’t for a trip to New York City on a budget, we do recommend at least stopping to take a look (especially during Christmas in NYC !).

12. Central Park Carousel

The carousel first opened in Central Park in 1871 (when it was powered by a mule and horse that were hidden below the ride). In total, there have been four carousels on the site; today’s carousel dates to 1908 and was restored for the park in 1990. 

13. Wollman Rink

The Wollman Rink, with NYC’s incredible skyline as a background, was opened in 1950 and has been featured in several films (like Serendipity and Love Story).

14. Gapstow Bridge

The picturesque Gapstow Bridge was built in 1896 and provides stunning NYC skyline views. It’s also a good spot for photo ops in Central Park. 

LUNCH AT CENTRAL PARK

Central Park is the perfect place for a picnic lunch – whether you are traveling to NYC on a budget or not! There are grocery stores and corner delis nearby where you can pick up picnic items. On the other hand, indulging in a famous New York City hotdog is a top tip for how to visit NYC cheap!

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart

At the southeast corner of Central Park, seek out the Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart by the William Tecumseh Sherman Monument. Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Cart was started in 1916 by a Polish immigrant with a secret spice recipe. The original stand was on Coney Island and, back then, hot dogs only cost a nickel. Today, they are a bit more expensive, but may still fit into your New York trip budget. 

ROOSEVELT ISLAND

Roosevelt Island is a slender, 2-mile-long island in New York’s East River. In the 1800s, the area was used to conceal the ill and poor from the rest of society. A smallpox hospital, almshouse, penitentiary and asylum were built on the small spit that was renamed Welfare Island. Today, high-rise apartments are clustered here, but a few historical structures remain – along with a memorial. 

Exit Central Park from the southeast corner and walk east on 59th Street. Pass Bloomingdale’s and continue another block to the Roosevelt Tramway Plaza. The roundtrip walking distance is about 2 miles (including Roosevelt Island sights) and will take about 2 hours. Use this Map for the detour to the Tramway; Use this Map for Roosevelt Island.

Roosevelt Tramway

The 3,100-foot-long Roosevelt Island Tramway is an aerial commuter tram connecting to Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Opened in 1976, the tramway has two capsules, each of which can carry 125 passengers on the 3-minute ride. The cost of the ride is included with the weekly unlimited MetroCard – so it is essentially free to ride! 

Explore Roosevelt Island

There is an inexpensive bus that makes a loop around Roosevelt Island, but we think the best part of the island is the southern end, which is just a short walk from the Tramway station. The area hosts a memorial dedicated to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the remains of a hospital. Additionally, there are fantastic views of the NYC skyline. Public Bathroom. 

Walking Tour of Central Park – Part 2

Re-enter Central Park where you exited on the southeast corner. Start your discovery of the east side, traveling all the way to the far northeast corner. This 3-mile walk should take about 1-2 hours. Use this Map for walking directions.

18. Balto Statue

Balto is the famous Siberian husky that in 1925 led a team of sled dogs from Anchorage, Alaska to the town of Nome with the necessary medicine to stop a deadly epidemic. The dogs were considered heroes and Balto’s statue in Central Park commemorates their efforts.

19. The Mall

The Mall is a wide pedestrian path (not a shopping center) that is canopied by towering American Elm trees. The Literary Walk begins at the southern end of The Mall, featuring famous writers of the past. Follow The Mall to the north, which ends at Bethesda Terrace.

20. Bethesda Terrace, Fountain and Arcade

The grand and opulent Bethesda Terrace is a highlight of Central Park. The terrace overlooks The Lake and Bethesda Fountain. Beneath the terrace is the tiled arcade where musicians perform and wedding couples are photographed. Paddleboats can be rented nearby and The Loeb Boathouse restaurant is a popular spot to stop for an afternoon refreshment.

21. Hans Christian Andersen Statue

Author of The Ugly Duckling and The Little Mermaid, Hans Christian Andersen’s statue is a favorite for children visiting Central Park – and it’s one of our favorite spots, too!

22. Conservatory Water Pond

Conservatory Water is a well-known Central Park pond that is used mostly for navigating model sailboats.

23. Alice in Wonderland Statue

In 1959, the bronze cast of characters from Alice in Wonderland was installed at the park, including Alice, the White Rabbit and the Mad Hatter.

24. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or just The Met, is New York City’s most popular museum. The Met opened in 1880 and features major artworks from around the world. While The Met is not one of the cheap places to visit in New York, it is a top city attraction. You will need to determine if you want to include it in your 4 Days in New York Itinerary. 

25. Cleopatra’s Needle

The Obelisk, often called Cleopatra’s Needle, dates to the year 1450 BC, which makes it the oldest object in Central Park. It stands at 69-feet, weighs 220 tons and was erected in 1881. A matching Obelisk stands along the Thames River in London .

26. Conservatory Garden

The formally-planned Conservatory Garden features flowers, manicured hedges and fountains. It is a beautiful and peaceful place to relax in the middle of the hustle and bustle of NYC.

27. Duke Ellington Circle

At the northeastern tip of Central Park is Duke Ellington Circle. A statue of the famed jazz musician stands in the center of the plaza. ( Public Bathroom behind the statue. )

Map of Sights in Central Park and Roosevelt Island

EAST HARLEM

End the second day of your New York City trip on a budget in East Harlem. The neighborhood, which is also called Spanish Harlem or El Barrio, is the district that lies between the Upper East Side and Harlem.

Once settled primarily by Italians (and earning it the nickname Italian Harlem), the area saw an influx of Puerto Rican and Latin American immigrants in the mid-1900s. Today, it’s a diverse neighborhood filled with bodegas, inspiring street art and a variety of Latin American restaurants. Use this Map for East Harlem sightseeing.

East Harlem Sights

East Harlem is a district to be experienced, not necessarily explored with a checklist in hand. We recommend wandering freely, keeping an eye out for intriguing street art along the way. 

Graffiti Hall of Fame

East Harlem is a hotbed of street art. The walls of the Jackie Robinson Educational Complex Playground are covered in paint; the spot is now known as the Graffiti Hall of Fame. 

Street Art in East Harlem

However, the Graffiti Hall of Fame isn’t the only spot to find murals and messages in El Barrio. While the East Harlem Street Art is ever-changing, a few of our favorite murals when we were there were Tito Puente Oye Como Va (at 110th and 3rd Avenue); Angel Wings under the tracks (at Park Avenue and 111th); and a sketch by local street artist, James De La Vega (at 111th and Lexington Avenue). 

DINNER IN EAST HARLEM

One of the things we love best about East Harlem is that there are a variety of restaurants in a range of prices – which is fantastic if you are traveling to New York on a budget!

Drinks in East Harlem

Drinking at bars and restaurants in NYC is expensive. However, seeking out Happy Hours can definitely assist in keeping the budget in check. In East Harlem, we found a couple of places offering great happy hour prices for drinks.

Craft beer enthusiasts should head to East Harlem Bottling Co for a great selection of innovative brews. For those craving a Latin-inspired cocktail, go to Cascalote for happy hour margaritas. If you’re enjoying the vibe, consider staying for dinner – as the prices are fairly affordable for the modern Latin fare. 

Restaurants in East Harlem

If you want to keep your New York City trip cost to a minimum, check out the food options in East Harlem. We recommend eating cuchifritos, popular Puerto Rican soul food, at the aptly named Cuchifritos on 116th Street.

Meals of whole roasted chicken with sides and a large drink cost less than $25 and are enough to feed at least 4 people! Don’t need so much food? Sample an array of the fried Latin goodies displayed in the restaurant window; each nugget costs about $1.

If you are interested in dining at a historic establishment, try one of the Italian restaurants still operating in the neighborhood. For a truly classic place, go to Patsy’s Pizzeria . Opened in 1933, Patsy’s legendary regulars included Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra and Francis Ford Coppola (who used the restaurant as inspiration for The Godfather films).

Map of Sights in East Harlem for Day 2 

Day 3 of your Budget NYC 4 Day Itinerary

Day 3 of this NYC trip itinerary is all about visiting the diverse districts of New York. Enjoy a scenic view, take a walk on an elevated park, then immerse yourself in a few of New York City’s best neighborhoods.

Use this Map for Day 3 NYC Sightseeing. Start at Subway Station: 34th Street-Hudson Yards

The Hudson Yards Vessel

Opened in 2019, The Vessel is a unique architectural structure of intertwining staircases and viewing platforms. As one of the best Free NYC attractions, tickets are required and need to be booked in advance. UPDATE: Closed indefinitely, but still a cool sight to see on your cheap New York trip. 

High Line Park

The High Line is NYC’s elevated-tracks-turned-park – and one of our favorite spots in the city! Visiting the park is free – so it won’t add a dime to your New York trip cost, either. 

The High Line Park – similar to the Promenade Plantee in Paris and Chicago’s Bloomindale Trail –  hovers above the Meatpacking District in Chelsea. From 1934 until the 1980s, trains ran along the tracks on Manhattan’s west side transporting meat and other goods from the industrial zone.

When the use of the trains became obsolete, the tracks were set to be demolished, but residents took up the cause to turn the relic into usable green space.

Throughout the modern park are art installations, amazing viewpoints and a few remaining railway tracks, which can be seen running through flowerbeds. Walk the length of The High Line from north to south – but detour at 16th street, taking the stairs to Chelsea Market.

Chelsea Market

The upscale fare at the uber-hipster Chelsea Market (which is essentially a fancy food court) is most likely over-priced for budget NYC travelers, but it is still worth a walk through. Check for free samples on the counter at Li-Lac Chocolates, which claims to be the oldest chocolate house in the city. After walking through Chelsea Market, return to The High Line and continue walking south.

Hudson River Greenway

The Hudson River Greenway is just steps from The High Line and a fantastic place to walk along the Hudson River. Part of the Manhattan Waterfront Greenway that follows almost the entire shoreline of Manhattan, strolling south on the Greenway offers fantastic views of the Hudson River and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk for a couple of blocks and then take West 11st Street to explore a favorite NYC neighborhood, Greenwich Village. 

GREENWICH VILLAGE

Greenwich Village – or simply The Village – is known as the artsy, bohemian district in Manhattan. The Village is home to NYU and Washington Square Park and the neighborhood is best explored with wonder. 

LUNCH IN GREENWICH VILLAGE

If you have already worked up an appetite, you are in luck because three of the best cheap places to eat in New York are located in atmospheric Greenwich Village. 

Percy’s Pizza

Hands-down our favorite cheap pizza in the city is Percy’s Pizza. It’s not just the crispy crust and ample cheese used to top each slice that gets us excited about this former NYC $1 slice pizza (even though now it’s $3!), but also the friendly neighborhood vibe and shake-it-yourself Parmesan. TripAdvisor Reviews Percy’s Pizza.

Mamoun’s Falafel

Mamoun’s Falafel has been serving up their signature Falafel sandwich  from the original Village location since 1971. The tasty sandwich gets bonus points for having heaping amounts of fresh veggies! TripAdvisor Reviews Mamoun’s Falafel.

Saigon Shack

Craving an amazing Banh Mi sandwich for a great price in NYC? Be sure to save room for a stop at the Saigon Shack. Crispy bread and fresh ingredients make this an absolutely tasty and inexpensive bite…the best Banh Mi we’ve had outside of Saigon ! 

Washington Square Park

Before leaving Greenwich Village, walk through Washington Square Park. It has the most interesting history of any NYC park. The area was originally marshland, then farmland, and then a graveyard (20,000 bodies are said to still be buried below!). After a brief period as Military parade grounds, it’s been a public park since 1950.. The notable features are the Washington Square Arch and the large fountain. ( Public Bathroom ) 

NEW YORK SOHO

From Washington Square Park, it is just a short walk south to Soho. Top-end retailers and art galleries line the streets of Soho, but history buffs and fans of architecture will enjoy a stroll around the neighborhood without ever stepping foot in a store.

The Cast Iron Historic District is a sub-district of Soho, which consists of more than 200 buildings featuring cast iron design. The area has been designated as a National Historic Landmark.

Fun Fact : The name Soho comes from it’s location; South of Houston…pronounced House -ton.

LITTLE ITALY NYC

New York Little Italy, which has dwindled to just 3 blocks on Mulberry Street, sits east of Soho. Although not the flourishing district it once was, we still think visiting the area is a NYC-must-see. In 1910, 10,000 Italians lived in this neighborhood – including many Mafia members. 

The shops and restaurants mostly cater to tourists who are enthralled by the tales of NYC’s crime families and the feeling of stepping into scenes from The Godfather. Follow this useful self-guided tour what on see in Little Italy NY. 

NEW YORK CITY CHINATOWN

This wouldn’t be the best NYC Itinerary on a budget if we didn’t visit Chinatown! Walk down Chinatown’s Pell Street, where neon signs display Chinese symbols and dried fish products overflow from markets. Known for a high concentration of Asian restaurants and street vendors hawking knock-off merchandise, a stroll through the neighborhood is truly a feast for the senses. 

Top Tip : Follow this self-guided tour of Chinatown for tips on what to see in NYC Chinatown.

Want a Guide to lead the way to Top NYC Neighborhoods? Take a Free Walking Tour! To join a FREE (tip-based) Guided Tour of Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown, make a reservation . 

DINNER IN CHINATOWN

One of the best things about NYC Chinatown is the food! And, with so many affordable restaurants in Chinatown, even travelers planning a cheap trip to NYC can eat in Chinatown without over extending the budget.

Our favorite way to feast in Chinatown is to grab mini take away meals from numerous establishments. To start, get a cheap portion of pork dumplings from Fried Dumpling . Then, make your way to Mei Li Wah Bakery for delicious baked pork buns ($1.50). Finally, pop into a noodle shop for more fantastic fare.

Map of Sights for Day 3 of our NYC Itinerary

Final Day of your New York City Itinerary

To wrap up your amazing 4-day trip to New York City, spend time in Brooklyn before ending your stay with a classic NYC deli meal. Start at Bedford Avenue Station

The Brooklyn borough is three times larger than compact Manhattan and quite a bit more time consuming to travel around. The once inexpensive area has seen a sweep of gentrification. Still, there are many interesting enclaves in Brooklyn to check out that will fit into a cheap New York trip budget.

Williamsburg

Williamsburg is the original hipster district in Brooklyn, known for its incredible nightlife and trendy brunch spots. Note, however, that eating in Williamsburg is not one of the things to do in New York on a budget!

Instead, on cheap trips to New York, take a stroll around the stylish neighborhood (you can even use this self-guided Williamsburg Walking Tour ) then continue on to The Bushwick Collective via subway from Bedford Avenue Station to Jefferson Street Station . 

Bushwick Collective Street Art

Unlike Williamsburg, which is being polished clean, Bushwick is a gritty industrial neighborhood. The buildings’ exterior walls are perfect for artists to use as canvases for street art murals.

In now what is known as The Bushwick Collective, artists have livened up the district with colorful and contemplative art. One of the fun things to do in NYC on a budget is to peruse the neighborhood in search of the latest and greatest street art. 

Top Tip: Find the best street art in the neighborhood using this self-guided tour  complete with helpful map.

CHEAP LUNCH IN BROOKLYN

There are so many things to love about Brooklyn – and the food scene is most certainly one of them. From classic American eats to the best New York bagels to international fare to legendary markets, Brooklyn food is divine. While many Brooklyn restaurants will test the budget for a cheap trip to New York, there are still many affordable places to eat in Brooklyn, too.

Top Tip : After lunch, we head to Prospect Park, so you can grab a bite to go and eat in the park picnic-style.

Tina’s Place

An American greasy spoon, Tina’s Place cranks out cheap breakfast sandwiches and classic breakfast platters – but get there before 11am for the best deals. The diner is located in Bushwick – so you can walk there after (or before) seeking out street art. 

A&A Bake and Doubles Shop

Typical Trinidadian fare that is soft on the budget, but big on the taste buds, A&A is an absolute gem! Grab a couple of doubles (curried chickpeas in fried dough) – they start out at $2 each. To get to A&A, use the subway to Nostrand Ave Station . 

Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe

The bagels in NYC are out of this world – and they are one of our favorite things to eat in New York City on the cheap!

A bagel with schmear (that’s cream cheese) is a perfect affordable lunch. There are several bagel shops in Brooklyn where you can get your fix, but we recommend popping into Olde Brooklyn Bagel Shoppe, where they make fresh bagels on site. 

Smorgasburg Market

If it’s a summer Sunday, head inside Prospect Park and the Smorgasburg Market , an open-air market with 100 food vendors dishing out delectable fare.

Prospect Park 

Designed by the same duo who laid out Central Park, Prospect Park features open fields, ample paths, a zoo, amphitheater and several lakes. Wander through the park from the Prospect Park subway station to the northwest to the Grand Army Plaza. ( Public Bathrooms in park. ) 

Brownstones of Park Slope

The Park Slope Brownstones are quintessentially Brooklyn. The term ‘brownstone’ comes from a type of sandstone building material used in many structures in NYC. However, it also refers to the architectural element of a staircase rising from street level to the front door on the second level.

There are a high concentration of brownstones in Brooklyn, with some of the most beautiful buildings in Park Slope. Head south on 8th Avenue from Grand Army Plaza and zigzag through the neighborhood or follow part of this walking tour .

Then take the subway from the 7 Av Subway Station to York Street Subway Station to DUMBO.

DUMBO, which stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass,” was once an industrial district. Today, the warehouse buildings are being used as galleries by artists and as offices by tech firms. The riverside park, Brooklyn Bridge Park, offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.

Brooklyn Bridge

After visiting the sights in DUMBO, it is time to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge – one of the best free activities in NYC! Taking 14 years to complete, the Brooklyn Bridge opened in 1883 to connect Manhattan to Brooklyn over the East River. At the time, the 1,595-foot-structure was the longest suspension bridge in the world and an instant icon of the city. Often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World, the bridge is crossed by an estimated 150,000 vehicles and 4,000 pedestrians every day. Those who walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan are treated to the most spectacular Manhattan skyline views!

New York City Hall 

At the west end of the Brooklyn Bridge is City Hall Park. At the center of the park is the landmark New York City Hall, which was completed in 1812 and is the oldest city hall in the United States. The Office of the Mayor of New York and city council chambers are still located inside the building.

From City Hall Park, walk north on Center Street and take the subway from Chambers Street Subway Station to the Essex Street Station . Walk north to Katz’s Deli.

Katz’s Deli

A lot of a splurge on a low-budget New York trip, we think a meal at Katz’s Deli is worth it! With a history that dates to 1888 – and meat that takes 30 days to cure – Katz’s Delicatessen is legendary in New York City. Many movies and TV shows have filmed scenes at Katz’s Deli, including a famous scene from When Harry Met Sally.

Pastrami on Rye is the thing to order, but it’s a bit of a budget-buster, costing more than $25. However, it can easily be shared with two people and is oh-so tasty!  

Pro Tip: If the prices at Katz’s Deli push the budget for your New York trip, opt instead to eat at Veselka. The nearby Ukrainian restaurant is a favorite NYC diner for hearty yet inexpensive eats. Established in 1954, the restaurant is open 24/7!

McSorley’s Old Ale House

The final stop on our NYC travel itinerary is a classic and much-loved New York bar, McSorely’s Old Ale House. Claiming to be NYC’s oldest continuously operated pub, McSorely’s was opened in 1854. The historic boozer, which was a “men’s only” bar until 1970, has been visited by many famous people, including Abe Lincoln, Dustin Hoffman and the New York Rangers hockey team after they won the Stanley Cup in 1994!

Inside the cozy tavern, newspaper articles and old photos cover the walls, sawdust covers the floor and classic bartenders pour the beers. They keep it simple with just two choices of house beer, light or dark, and it’s cash only!

Map of Sights on Day 4 for our New York Itinerary

Best New York Itinerary Suggestions

Whether you are trying to see New York in a day or have a week, we can help! Using our New York City Itinerary 4 Days as a base, we have created alternate NYC itineraries that can fit into your timeline.

1 Day in NYC Budget Trip Plan

Trying to see NYC in a day is a huge challenge – but it is possible to get a sweeping overview in a single day using our succinct New York One Day Trip Planner. 

NYC Itinerary 1 Day

The best way to create a NYC 1 Day Itinerary is to simply follow Day 1 of our New York City 4 Day Itinerary. If time permits, add a visit to Central Park to the end of your day, strolling through the southern end of the park after sightseeing in Midtown. 

2 Days in NYC Itinerary

Planning 2 days in New York on a budget? Whether you are visiting mid-week or trying to create a Weekend in NYC Itinerary, there are numerous ways to plan your time in the city. 

NYC Itinerary 2 Days

Don’t stress about what to do in New York for 2 days – we’ve got it covered! We recommend following Day 1 from above – then combine Days 2 and 3 to create an optimal NYC 2 Day Itinerary. For example, on the second day, spend the morning in Central Park and in the afternoon, explore Soho, Little Italy and Chinatown.

3 Days in NYC on a Budget

The choice of things to do in New York in 3 days are almost endless – but we have designed a great 3 Day Itinerary NYC for you! 

NYC Itinerary 3 Days

Using our NYC Itinerary 4 Days as a guide – we’ll optimize for the best sightseeing. For a great 3 Days in New York City Itinerary, follow our tips for Day 1 (Lower Manhattan and Midtown), then on the second day, use Day 3 (High Line and NYC neighborhoods). On the last day, combine Days 2 and 4 (spending the morning in Central Park and the afternoon in Brooklyn). 

5 Days in New York

Our tips for what to see in New York in 5 days includes more district discovery and a possible spurge in the budget. 

NYC Itinerary 5 Days

Spending 5 days in NYC? Incredible! Use our New York in 4 days, then a bit more! For example, add in Hell’s Kitchen and/or Harlem. Alternatively, you could create a New York Itinerary 5 Days that includes one day of splurging on experiences, like Top of the Rock or The Met .

7 Days in New York

Looking for a 1 week in New York Itinerary? We just happen to have one of those! Check out our suggestions in our New York City One-Week Itinerary .

How To Plan a Trip To New York on a Budget

When we talk about how to visit NYC on a budget, we are not only talking about sightseeing and attractions, but how to plan every aspect of the trip. So, we have a few more budget-saving tips that apply to the overall cost of a trip to New York, too. 

Trip to New York Cost and Money Saving Tips

As outlined above, our only costs while sightseeing were the MetroCard and meals. However, there are other expenses involved in a trip to New York City. We are sharing our advice on how to plan a trip to New York on the cheap when searching for hotels and transport. 

Finding Cheap Places To Stay in New York City

Accommodations can easily account for the biggest cost of a trip to NYC. We wont’ lie: booking cheap accommodation in NYC is quite the task! Cheap hotels in NYC don’t really exist, and you wouldn’t likely want to stay in the absolute cheapest places anyway.

Budget Accommodation New York

If you are searching for where to stay in NYC on a budget, then we have a few recommendations. 

First, start your search as early as possible, as the best value hotels get booked the quickest. 

Second, consider looking outside of Manhattan. Brooklyn, Harlem and even Jersey City are where to stay in NYC for cheap. Although, finding anything less than $200 might still be a struggle (especially on weekends). 

Third, if you do stay outside of Manhattan, be sure to choose accommodations that are close to subway access! This will save heaps of time when transiting into the city for sightseeing. 

Finally, be flexible about your accommodation choice. For example, the Nap York Capsule Hostel is a great budget option for travelers looking for an affordable bed in the heart of the city. The hostel gets rave reviews for being quiet, clean and offering privacy for each bunk. 

Start your search on Booking.com – but first read our tips for Finding Top Hotels at the Best Price .

Airbnb in NYC

For more affordable accommodations, consider staying in an Airbnb Apartment . We have found that staying in apartments is often less expensive than hotel rooms – with the added benefit of a kitchen and, usually, more space. While there’s been a lot of changes on how Airbnb can operate in NYC, there are still private rooms in Queens, Harlem and Jersey City that start at about $100.

NYC Housesitting

On our budget trip to New York, we were house and pet-sitting , so our accommodations were free. Yep, free . Sound interesting? Find out more about how to become a house sitter in our article, International Housesitting . 

Getting Around NYC for Cheap

One of the top tips for travel to New York City on a budget is to avoid taxi cabs! Cabs in NYC are notoriously expensive – not to mention, the traffic is horrendous. Uber is a better option, but still expensive. We do not recommend driving in NYC for any reason.

For our outlined 4 Day New York City Itinerary, we suggest using the subway, buses and walking – it’s the cheapest way to travel in New York! The unlimited weekly MetroCard is one of the best New York City travel trips for budget travelers. 

MetroCard: How To Travel Cheap in New York

A weekly unlimited MetroCard allows access to the subway, buses and the Roosevelt Tramway for seven days. The 7 day unlimited pass becomes financially beneficial if used for at least 12 rides. Our 4 Day New York itinerary includes 16 rides.

For the best, up-to-minute NYC public transportation options, we recommend using Google Maps. Just make sure to carry a portable power bank , as we needed the extra boost for our phones by the end of each day!

Tips for using the NYC Subway

• Before entering the subway, check for a direction on the station sign. Some stations are direction-specific, but not all.
• Swipe your card at a steady pace. Going too fast or too slow won’t work. 
• When a train approaches, check the sign on the front and side of the cars to ensure it is the train you want (several trains use the same platform).
• Forget what you’ve heard about attitudes – most New Yorkers are actually incredibly nice and helpful, especially when it comes to assisting with the subway. If you are unsure where to go, just ask a fellow passenger!
• For more tips on using the NYC subways and buses, go to the official MTA Website . 

Getting To NYC

New York City is well connected to…everywhere. The metropolis can be reached by plane, train, boat and car. However you arrive, you should include the cost in your vacation budget for New York City. 

Finding Cheap New York Flights

There are three major airports that serve NYC: John F Kennedy International (JFK), LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark International (EWR). When you travel to New York on a budget, your flight will likely account for a big portion of your overall trip cost. We start our search for the best deals on airline tickets and cheapest flights to New York on Skyscanner.

Trains to NYC

New York City is connected to major US cities by train, too – like Boston , Philadelphia and Washington DC . Although train travel in the US can be slow and expensive, short train trips from destinations on the east coast can be one of the ways to travel to New York cheap. 

More Tips for New York Travel on a Budget

We have shared some of our best tips on how to visit New York on a budget, but we have a few more pieces of advice for planning a cheap New York trip. 

Cheap Eats in NYC

Eating at sit-down restaurants in NYC is expensive, which is why we chose takeaway food for our NYC Budget Itinerary. However, if you have a week in NYC, pop into one of the many New York grocery stores, corner markets or delis, where you can buy more affordable food.

Cheap Sightseeing in NYC

Our itinerary includes incredible free sightseeing in NYC that doesn’t cost a single cent. However, if visiting some of the iconic New York sights is high on your list, buying a New York Sights Pass might be financially beneficial.

New York Sightseeing Deals

Top NYC sightseeing passes promise to save you time and money – and they certainly can if you choose the right one! Some offer unlimited sights for a specific number of days (1 to 10 days), while others offer a number of sights (2 to 12 attractions) that can be visited over a certain time period.

• The New York Sightseeing Pass offers both types, one for a specific number of days and another for a specific number of sights. 
• The New York Pass is a great way to visit New York on a budget – as it offers access to more than 100 attractions and tours for time periods of 1 to 10 days.
• New York CityPass is another fantastic sightseeing card for a cheap trip to New York City. The card features the top city attractions at one low price.
• You can also save money with discounts of up to 40% on New York City tours and Activities with Viator .

Shopping in New York on a Budget

New York City is one of the premier shopping destinations in the world. However, many budget travelers skip shopping on New York cheap trips…but you don’t have to! Rather than shop at the luxury stores on posh 5th Avenue, seek out top thrift stores – they are the best places to shop in NYC on a budget! Top picks for thrift threads on Cure Thrift, Beacon’s Closet and AuH20. The Bloomingdale’s Outlet on the Upper West Side is another great place to find clothes for cheap in NYC.

Travel to NYC on a Budget: Packing Checklist

Use our free New York trip planning checklist and our trusted packing hacks for your budget NYC vacation!

Walking Shoes for New York

A good pair of walking shoes are a must for your 4 day trip to New York City! I like lightweight shoes, like these by Columbia , and Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes. Read our top tips for the Best Travel Shoes !

NYC Weather Gear

Nearly all of the sights on our 4-Day NYC Itinerary are outdoors. Make sure you are prepared with appropriate gear. In the summertime, make sure to pack sunscreen , your sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat . If rain is in the forecast, bring a travel umbrella and travel rain poncho – or a better raincoat . 

Travel Camera for NYC Photos

New York is a stunning city! We recommend using a proper travel camera with a zoom lens for your trip to NYC. We travel with a Canon Rebel and use a 18-135mm lens , which takes amazing photos. We also carry a Canon PowerShot ELPH , which is small enough to fit into a zippered pocket and an ideal budget camera for city sightseeing.

Day Bag for New York

Whether you travel with a backpack or a suitcase , you will certainly want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your essential travel items .

Start planning your trip to NYC, USA ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

Need Ideas for Quick US Trip Destinations?

We highlight some of our favorite locations in The Best Weekend Getaways in USA . Also check out our top Underrated US Destinations !

Pin it! See all of our travel pins on our JetSetting Fools Pinterest Board .

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The best train trips from NYC for a scenic rail adventure

New York City is just a few hours from historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

As much as the U.S. is heavily car-dependent and the American past time is a good ol’ summer  road trip along historic routes across the states, the Northeast is definitely spoiled with accessible rail connections making it easy for rail aficionados, business travelers, tourists and anyone to sojourn between cities and small towns for quick day trips and weekend getaways in any season. New York City, especially, is within 10 hours of some historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Even though the region doesn’t have sweeping scenic train rides such as the California Zephyr going into the Rocky Mountains or the Coast Starlight route with Cascade Mountains and Pacific Coast views, the New York/Northeast route can still boast of historic landmarks and ruins along the Hudson Valley, sparkling waters of the Connecticut coastline in summer, and truly spectacular fall foliage in autumn.

Check out these direct train routes that’ll offer up scenic views right outside your window.

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Best scenic rail trips from NYC

1.  Enjoy Hudson River and mountainous views to Pittsfield, MA

Use that PTO and hop onto the Berkshire Flyer’s seasonal weekend service route for the long but scenic train ride to Pittsfield—the Heart of the Berkshires . Gaze out the window at the lush Hudson River valley green and its historic ruins as the four-hour train rolls through Poughkeepsie where the Gilded Age Vanderbilt Mansion is a few miles north of the station. The Berkshires is famous for a thriving ecosystem of woodlands, wetlands, and mountains , all of which attract outdoorsy travelers. Pack a bike or hiking boots to enjoy the scenic landscape in Pittsfield, which is visible as the train rolls into town.

What train route? Amtrak Berkshire Flyer How long is the train ride? 4 hours 5 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the Berkshire Mountains, Hudson River, picturesque towns and Catskills

2.  Take in coastal scenes to Providence, RI for America’s smallest state

America’s smallest state is a direct train ride for city adventures any day of the week as the train station is a walking distance to downtown Providence. This 3.5-hour route hugs the Connecticut coast and riders can see the water and boats bobbing and sailing on it at several points along the train ride. Heading southbound towards New York City? Sit on the left side of the train for even more spectacular coastal views.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 3.5 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Sparkling summer coastal views of sailboats and harbors

3.  See skyline and river views of Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC (just an hour and a half) and while the views tend to be industrial, graffiti-decorated, or bland as you pass through New Jersey and Delaware, the left side of the train is where you’ll see the Philadelphia skyline and Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River before arrival at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 1 hour 30 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Nighttime views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia skyline, rowers on the river during the day and industrial architectural remnants (for those with a niche interest)

4.  Cruise through the lush Hudson Valley heading to Albany, NY

The NYC to Albany is one of the few train rides in the Northeast with lovely views of verdant foliage and wine country of the Hudson Valley region heading north three hours to Albany. On the return journey from Albany to NYC, sit on the right side for breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the Palisades as you approach Penn Station. The Palisades are especially scenic during fall foliage when leaves turn hues of yellow and orange.

What train route? Amtrak Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall. Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley towns and villages, Palisades, and Catskills

5.  Discover castle ruins and lighthouse views on the way to Hudson, NY

Fondly known as “ Upstate New York’s Downtown , ” Hudson is a favorite among NYC residents for day trips and weekend getaways—it’s just two hours away! The Hudson Valley is one of the most scenic routes in New York State so keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island, Bear Mountain, and the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse . In addition, the train speeds by lush forests and marsh that are green in summer but explode with hues of yellow and orange for fall foliage.

What train route? Amtrak Maple Leaf, Adirondack and Ethan Allen Express lines How long is the train ride?  2 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse , Bannerman Castle ruins, West Point, Bear Mountain and lush foliage along the Hudson River.

6.  Ride the Connecticut coast to Mystic for nautical history

Interested in nautical and whaling history but also want a small-town charm with a beautiful downtown? Mystic is it. Enroute to Mystic, swap highway gridlock for stress-free scenic train travel passing through attractive small towns with steeples, historic architecture, and verdant foliage. In New York, the three-hour route goes by the Hudson River where the Hudson-Athens lighthouse is visible if seated at the right side of the train heading southbound into New York City.

Closer to Mystic, the train passes right through Sixpenny Island and also hugs the south end of the nearby Haley Farm State Park . The route also goes by the Mystic Seaport harbor area where historic ships like the Charles Morgan whaling ship and other vessels are visible from the train.

What train route? Maple Leaf, Adirondack, and Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of Hudson-Athens lighthouse in NY, historic ships in Mystic Seaport harbor, small New England towns and scenic state parks in Connecticut.

7.  See Pennsylvania Dutch Country on the way to Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is a long but direct train ride from NYC. Still, the window scenes as the nine-hour train speeds by make up for this distance. Look out for the historic Horseshoe Curve near Altoona—known as one of the eight engineering marvels of the world—and gaze at the farmlands and barn houses of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The train rounds the Horseshoe Curve once each way daily. Also visible is Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers converge; and the Allegheny Mountains are also visible from the train.

What train route? Amtrak Pennsylvanian How long is the train ride? Approx. 9 hours from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of Horseshoe Curve as an engineering marvel, Allegheny Mountain Range and the Golden Triangle river convergence point.

8.  Spot the Hudson River and Lake Champlain toward Burlington, VT

If you’re into slow travel, this route is just for you, so board with refreshments and entertainment for the ride to the Green Mountain State. Eight hours northbound to Burlington, sit on the left side for Hudson River views (beautiful in all seasons) and scenic glimpses of New England communities with their architecture and steeples. In Vermont, the views that matter are those of Lake Champlain south of Burlington, and this view would be on the left side of the train northbound. Heading north to Burlington, the Vermont portion will be dark except on long summer days.

What train route? Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 8 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall Why is this route nice? Lake Champlain and scenic Hudson River Valley views

9.  Marvel at Chesapeake Bay views toward Baltimore, MD

Baltimore doesn’t spring to mind when listing scenic train rides but here’s a tip: southbound from NYC, sit on the left side of the train for Chesapeake Bay views. During the fall, you might even get to see the fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves of the Bay’s fall foliage on the way. This nearly three-hour route might also terminate in Washington D.C. and for brief scenic views en route D.C., sit on the left side for where the train crosses the Susquehanna River.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional and Amtrak Acela How long is the train ride? Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore skyline views

10.  See ships and harbors on the coast heading to Boston, MA

The NYC to Boston route is another route in the Northeast with lovely views so ease the four-and-a-half-hourlong ride to Boston by identifying and admiring scenic views from the train window. From NYC, sit on the right side as the train hugs the Connecticut coastline for views of ships, harbors, and bridges. 

What train route? Amtrak Acela and Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of the Connecticut coastline

11.  Peep the Palisades cliffs in Poughkeepsie, NY

The best views here are during fall foliage season where this two-hour train hugs the edge of the Hudson River allowing magnificent views of the Palisades with their bright fall colors. Get your walking shoes on for more bursts of color as you walk or bike Walkway Over the Hudson , an elevated pedestrian bridge beginning at the Poughkeepsie station, for photography-worthy scenes and discovering communities along the way. 

What train route? MTA Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal How long is the train ride? 2 hours  Why is this route nice? Colorful views of the Palisades cliffs and other foliage 

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The Best Things to Do in Upstate NY: Hidden Gems and Bucket List Must-Sees

W hen you live in Brooklyn, everything north of the Bronx is considered upstate New York. New York State sprawls over 300 square miles, bordering Canada, Connecticut, Vermont, Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

The year-round activities in upstate New York can include hiking , biking, visiting wineries and breweries (some of which have live music) and museums. Seasonal activities include kayaking and canoeing in summer, skiing or snowshoeing in winter, maple sugaring in spring and apple picking in fall.

You can see the Hudson River through much of upstate New York. It starts more than 300 miles away from New York City and travels through small towns throughout much of its run.

Read More: Where to Find the best Catskills NY restaurants .

Day Trips from NYC

Beacon is an ideal day trip to upstate NY. You can drive to Beacon in about two hours or take the MetroNorth Hudson Line from Grand Central to Beacon, NY. This is a wonderfully scenic train ride along the Hudson River.

Once you arrive, there’s an easy one-mile hiking trail that starts right at the MetroNorth Station. The Klara Sauer Trail takes you to Denning’s Point, where you can pick up a 3-mile loop trail. This is a great hiking trail for young kids, as it is relatively flat and stroller friendly.

The town of Beacon is a short cab ride (or long walk) from the train station. There, you’ll find cafes, restaurants and shops. The Dia Beacon Art Museum is a must-see. Art lovers take pilgrimages here. If this is on your bucket list, keep in mind that the museum is closed Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Spend the day at Untermyer Park and Gardens , the ruins of an estate from the 1800s. Untermyer overlooks the Hudson River and Old Croton Aqueduct. There are woodland trails and remnants of the gardens and staircases around the 43 acres.

You can even bike here from New York City, following the Empire State Trailway and Hudson River Greenway.

Untermyer Park and Gardens has a live music concert series in the summer.

Hudson Valley: Hiking and Art

Storm King Art Center , an outdoor sculpture museum , has 500 acres of forest, hills, meadows and streams. It also has one of the largest sculpture gardens in the United States. It is both a contemporary art museum and hiking or biking destination. There are bike rentals if you want to cycle around the 500-acre sculpture garden; you can’t bring your own bike. 

Eat lunch at the cafe or bring food to eat at picnic tables. On the 3rd Friday in June, July and August, Storm King , in New Windsor, NY  is open late, and food truck vendors provide dinner options.

SheBuysTravel Tip: An outdoor museum is a great way to introduce children to art and museums. Once they think of museums as fun, indoor art museums are an easier sell.

The historic West Point Foundry Preserve in Cold Spring is also both an outdoor museum and a place to go hiking.

The Putnam County preserve has abandoned building ruins and waterfalls, along with a few short hiking trails. The 19th century foundry produced guns and cannons during the Civil War.

A giant waterwheel and information panels about the history of the Foundry spice up the trees and views expected on a hike. 

Another Hike, with Apples, not Art

Anthony’s Nose, near Cold Spring, offers spectacular views of the Hudson River. But you have to work for it. The 500-foot rock staircase has a half-mile vertical climb. This short hike, just past the Bear Mountain Bridge in Garrison, is actually part of the Appalachian Trail.

Combine this hike with a trip to Fishkill Farms . The family-owned apple orchard and vegetable farm in East Fishkill, New York, grows organic vegetables and eco-certified fruit. You can pick your own apples, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, nectarines, tomatoes and pumpkins, depending on the time of year. There are special weekend events like yoga and live music so you can make a day of it.

Harriman State Park: Rockland County

Harriman State Park has more than 200 miles of trails with limited parking. Get here early and enjoy uncrowded hiking trails.

Rockland Lake State Park

There is a lake somewhere in Rockland Lake State Park, but the six-mile hike we take brings us up to a scenic Hudson River view, then down for a stroll along the river.

The part of the trail along the river even has bathrooms and drinking fountains.

Best Easy Hiking: Rockefeller Preserve

With its stunning views and easy hiking trails, this Hudson Valley masterpiece is no hidden gem. It gets very crowded. Rockefeller State Park Preserve , 30 miles north of Rockefeller Center in Manhattan, charges $6 to park, which does deter bargain hunters. I consider $6 a small price to pay for clean flush toilets.

The crushed stone carriage roads have been turned into 45 miles of wide, flat hiking trails. This makes the hiking trails family and stroller friendly. You may even see cross-country teams training here.

You can bring a dog, but the rules about keeping dogs on leash are strictly enforced.

Breakneck Ridge: Leave the Dog at Home

Breakneck Ridge offers the most difficult hiking near NYC. Take MetroNorth to Breakneck, near Cold Spring. The steep hike can be treacherous when slippery and is so challenging that dogs are not allowed on the trail.

You get great views of the Hudson Valley and even Storm King Mountain. If you and your [older] kids are up to it, it is one of the best hikes near NYC.

Short Getaways from New York City to Upstate NY

The catskills.

The Catskills is where my parents used to go on vacation, and it has become a popular second-home destination for New Yorkers. If you don’t want to go all the way to Niagara Falls, hike to Kaaterskill Falls. The waterfalls here are over 260 feet high. Here are our favorite things to do in the Catskills .

SheBuysTravel Tip: This is a rigorous hike with lots of loose rocks. You have to stay on marked hiking trails and stay at least six feet from cliff edges. Don’t bring dogs or small children.

Mohonk Mountain House

A National Historic Landmark, the Mohonk Mountain House is one of the grand resorts where you can spend a few days, using all the facilities and eating the delicious meals and afternoon tea served daily. 

There’s a spa, indoor pool, lake swimming, boating, tennis, golf and horseback riding in summer. In winter, there is outdoor ice skating, snowshoeing and cross country skiing and snow tubing. 

But if you don’t have the time, or the money, to stay here, you can buy a day pass to use the hiking trails. Passes are $35 a person for ages 13 and up and $30 for children ages 4-12. Yes, it’s expensive, but you have access to more than 85 miles of trails, with both easy and difficult terrain. There are carriage paths, rock scrambles and steep hiking trails. Day passes include parking and bathrooms.

For a full-day getaway, a summer sports pass, for $99, includes hiking, an hour of tennis, a half hour of a boat and afternoon tea.

Dogs are not allowed on Mohonk property.

Hudson – Brooklyn in Upstate NY

Hudson, New York, is one of those small upstate towns where Brooklynites go to find other former Brooklynites. The quaint downtown is lined with cafes and boutiques.

Hudson Brewing Company is a dog-friendly brewery that often has live music. And always has tasty beer.

If ice cream upsets your stomach, check out Culture Cream, “living ice cream” that has probiotics and is good for your gut (if not your waistline).

Harlem Valley Rail Trail

This rail trail, under construction since 1996, goes for more than 26 miles through Dutchess and Columbia Counties. We have walked and biked through another adorable small town, Millerton. The paved rail trail is great for families with strollers.

Longer Getaways to Upstate New York

You can take a road trip to many upstate New York destinations. The Adirondack Mountains, Niagara Falls and Thousand Islands are all better with multi-day trips from New York City.

The Adirondacks

The Adirondacks is a vast region encompassing small towns, 6 million acres of Forever Wild Forest Preserves and the largest National Historic Landmark in the United States. According to Visit Adirondacks, it covers “an area larger than Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Glacier, and the Great Smokies National Parks combined.”

From New York City, and depending on where you are going in the Adirondacks, it takes between five and seven hours to drive here. You want to spend several days exploring outdoor adventures.

Our friends have an off-the-grid house, powered by solar panels and heated by a wood stove. In summer, this is a wonderful, remote escape from the heat of Manhattan, and in winter, you are pretty much guaranteed snow for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling and downhill skiing.

We recently spent three days hiking and canoeing. Our dog had never been on a boat before, but she took to it like a champ. Her favorite activity was splashing through the marshy path to a boathouse, which reached mid-thigh on adults and past the shoulders of a Labrador Retriever. Canine heaven.

But also, nirvana for adults. The Hudson River starts here and feeds the lakes. You can go fishing, swim in the many lakes, or just enjoy the spectacular scenery.

We had to be intentional about what we ate and the electricity we consumed. The house, called a camp in Adirondacks parlance, is 45 minutes down a dirt road and more than two hours from a supermarket, so you want to make sure not to run out of oat milk or shallots before you commit to the long bumpy drive.

You also have to wait to run the dishwasher until the sun comes out.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have friends with a private Adirondacks camp, you can pitch a tent in the millions of acres owned by New York State. There is no fee to enter, and the park never closes, so you are free to pitch a tent in the forest and commune with nature.

There’s Culture Too

When you tire of all the outdoor adventures, you can go to 2 museums in the area, The Museum at Blue Mountain Lake and The Wild Center Natural History Museum in Tupper Lake.

The Finger Lakes Region

Culture and food in ithaca.

Ithaca’s hidden gem is Cornell University’s art museum, designed by I.M. Pei. The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, free to visit, includes a Japanese garden and an outdoor Sculpture Court.

The Corning Museum of Glass has glassblowing and flame-throwing demonstrations throughout the day. The galleries feature glass collections from ancient to contemporary. You can make your own glass project or design something for the glass blowers to make.

 If you are traveling with children, kids 17 and under are free. 

Ithaca is also home to Moosewood Restaurant, a bucket list destination for vegans and vegetarians. As the owner of every Moosewood cookbook, this is a true mecca.

Ithaca Beer, home to the justly famed Flower Power IPA, has a huge beer garden and its own farm. The restaurant serves its homegrown produce alongside beer-friendly food for all kinds of eaters.

Watkins Glen and Watkins Glen State Park

There are plenty of fun things to do in Watkins Glen , but you definitely don’t want to miss Watkins Glen State Park with its dramatic waterfalls and easy hiking trails. There are slippery rocks (from those waterfalls) and steps, so it’s really more like a rigorous walk. Go early when it’s empty – you can even run through the state park then.

The wine trail goes through Watkins Glen. Lakewood Vineyards has a Vineyard Hike and Tasting, where you walk through the vineyard and sample wine in the gazebo. 

You can take a boat tour of Seneca Lake. Captain Bill’s has sightseeing tours and lunch or dinner cruises. We took a 50-minute sightseeing cruise in the heat of the summer and the water offered a cool (ish) breeze. I’d love to return for the longer sunset cruise.

Chautauqua County – Really Far from New York City

Chautauqua, which many people in New York City have never even heard of, is a seven-hour drive. In fact, it is closer to Cleveland, Ohio. During the pandemic, my oldest daughter moved to Cleveland, and we rendezvoused in Chautauqua.

National Comedy Center

Laughter is currency in our family, so the National Comedy Center in Jamestown was on our bucket list. You could spend all day here, learning about different comics through the ages, watching clips of your favorite TV shows and movies, and even performing stand-up. This incredible paean to humor opened in 2018 in Lucille Ball’s hometown.

You complete a comedy profile on a big screen, using a personal stylus to select shows and movies you like. You get a personalized bracelet embedded with a chip to identify yourself at different interactive stations around the museum (the better to find the snarky or political, broad or dirty humor you prefer). 

Jamestown also has the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum, showcasing costumes and sets from different Lucy shows. The museum hosts an annual comedy festival.

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

The privately owned park Panama Rocks Scenic Park in Chautauqua County has easy hiking trails. But you can also climb giant rock formations and explore caves and crevices. 

Note that strollers are not allowed in the park.

Thousand Islands Region

The Thousand Island Region, on the northern edge of upstate New York, is modestly named. There are actually more than 1,800 islands, and Lake Ontario. Some of the islands are in Canada, along the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario. 

The Thousand Islands region is more than a six-hour drive from New York City (and three hours from Montreal ). Once a summer vacation area for wealthy Americans (and Canadians) in the late 18th and early 19th century, it has a number of great things to see related to water.

Clayton: the Heart of the Thousand Islands Region

The small town of Clayton, mostly built in the 19th century, has beautiful historic buildings, art galleries, boutiques and restaurants.

If you like boats, go to the Antique Boat Museum . This hidden gem has hundreds of boats on display inside and out. Included with admission, you can row a traditional St. Lawrence Skiff. For an extra fee, take a sightseeing boat tour in an antique wooden boat.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Boaters who go out on their own have to be careful not to stray into Canada. Even if you go by accident, you will face a heavy fine.

For a touch of grandeur, tour Boldt Castle on Heart Island. Several tour boat operators take you to the fabulous castle and grounds, which are accessible only by water. Be sure to look at the Boldt Yacht House, with its collection of antique boats and a gatekeeper’s cottage that tells the story of the building of the castle.

It’s a very sad story. George Boldt, the proprietor of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in NYC, bought Hart Island, which he renamed ‘Heart Island’ to honor his wife, Louise. Four years after the home was finished, Louise died suddenly and George never returned to his island.

You can also take a boat ride to tour Singer Castle on Dark Island. If being royalty is on your bucket list, you can stay in the royal suite at the castle and have the castle and island to yourself for the night.

More Things to Do in Upstate New York

• Visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown.
• See the best waterfalls and national wonders in North America at Niagara Falls and ride on Maid of the Mist.
• Hike or drive through another natural wonder, Letchworth State Park , aka the Grand Canyon of the East
• Travel back to 19th century New York at the Genesee Country Village and Museum.
• Celebrate the cold at the annual Lake George Winter Carnival .
• See where the Olympics took place twice in the northeast in Lake Placid .
• Tour Saranac Brewery in Utica. Founded in the 19th century, Saranac has live music in its beer garden.
• Check out the LEGOLAND amusement park in the Hudson Valley. 
• Get wet year-round. The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark , the biggest waterpark in New York State, is in the Catskills.

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Travel Experts Say These Are The Things They'd Never, Ever Do On A Short Flight

Choose your plane seat wisely, even on a short flight.

HuffPost Writer

Travelers understandably spend more time preparing for long-haul air travel than they do for one- or two-hour flights. But that doesn’t mean they’ve got it all figured out when it comes to those shorter plane voyages.  

With that in mind, HuffPost asked travel experts to share the common mistakes travelers make on short flights, as well as their advice for avoiding these errors. From forgetting crucial supplies to being unprepared for an often-smaller aircraft, here are some issues to keep in mind. 

Showing Up With A Low Battery

“Certain smaller aircraft that operate shorter flights also might not have all the charging options ― USB ports, power plugs ― that you might expect on larger, longer-haul planes, so be sure your devices are charged ahead of boarding to make sure you don’t run out of juice mid-flight,” said Eric Rosen , director of travel content at The Points Guy.

In addition to charging your devices before the flight, consider traveling with a portable power bank as backup. 

Getting Too Comfortable

“One common mistake I see travelers make on short flights is getting too comfortable ― taking off shoes, sleeping too deeply,” said  Gabby Beckford , founder of the travel site Packs Light.

She emphasized that what’s expected on a long overnight flight might be a disservice on a short-haul journey.

“It’s a short flight!” Beckford said. “You’ll just end up scrambling when it’s time to deplane.”

Forgetting To Bring Sustenance

“These days, it’s not uncommon to be stuck on the tarmac longer than expected or to experience a cancellation or delay,” noted Jessica van Dop DeJesus , founder and editor at The Dining Traveler. “Make sure to pack snacks and water.”

Short flights don’t always offer full beverage or snack service, especially if there’s a lot of turbulence, so don’t depend on that cart for sustenance. 

“I cannot count the number of times I’ve said, ‘It’s a short trip, I’ll eat later,’” said travel blogger  Sean Lau . “Unfortunately, in-flight food often tastes bad and costs an arm and a leg, and there’s no guarantee of service on shorter routes. My advice is to take the time to eat before your flight or bring your own snacks. Better yet, sign up for services like Priority Pass and take advantage of the food and drinks in airport lounges before departure!” 

Picking The Wrong Seat 

“Always consider your seat,” said Adam Duckworth , president and founder of Travelmation. “Even though it’s a short flight, you will still face many of the same things you do on a long flight. For example, people will still need to get up. If that bothers you, book the window seat. If you prefer to have extra room, then book those higher-class tickets. Two hours in main cabin is very different from two hours in business.”

Short flights are often just the first step of a multileg air travel journey, so plan accordingly when you have to make a connection. 

“Like any flight, I always recommend sitting near the front of the plane, especially if you have a layover,” Duckworth said.

Ignoring Entertainment Time Constraints

A short flight might not be the best time to dive into that new superhero epic you’ve been wanting to watch. 

“Consider your in-flight entertainment,” Duckworth said. “If it’s a short flight, you may not finish the movie or TV show you’re watching, so keep that in mind.”

Going To The Airport Unprepared

“One common mistake is not preparing properly for the airport experience ― not giving yourself enough time, not having your documents and IDs ready, not organizing your liquids properly,” said travel blogger  Esther Susag . “This adds unnecessary stress.”

Even though short flights feel like less of a big deal, they’re still part of the typical airport and airplane experience.

“My tips are to get to the airport early, have everything ready to go through security smoothly, bring an empty water bottle to fill after clearing security, download entertainment like movies/shows/podcasts, and dress in layers for varying cabin temperatures,” Susag added. “Also, I always double-check my carry-on and personal items for loose liquids that could get me flagged.”

Overpacking

Be mindful of how much you pack for the trip, especially if you don’t want to gate-check your bag or cram extra stuff under the seat in front of you. 

“Short flights often mean smaller planes,” Beckford said. “Packing too much is often inconvenient and can make your experience more uncomfortable with the limited leg room and cabin size.”

Assuming You Don’t Need Buffer Time

Don’t forget to build some buffer time into your day if you have a connection or other time-sensitive factors.

“Given the amount of air traffic we’re seeing these days, folks with short flights might assume they’ll be on and off the plane in a matter of hours,” Rosen said. “But travelers should anticipate unexpected delays, including slow aircraft turnarounds and tarmac waits due to traffic congestion. Any of those could add on hours to an otherwise short itinerary, so pad your schedule.” This article originally appeared on HuffPost.

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New York lawmakers, advocates make last-ditch effort for short-term rental registry

State budget negotiations continue in Albany and there are last-ditch efforts being made to get various pieces of legislation included in its final version.

One proposal involves the creation of a short-term rental registry. Some municipalities have introduced something similar on the local level and it’s a measure included in both the state Senate and Assembly budget proposals.

Advocates say communities across the state are facing a “severe shortage” of affordable housing and believe the growing number of short-term rentals are a contributing factor.

“In many areas across the state, housing stock is being taken off the market because many homes and places that should be full-time homes have been turned into investment properties and short-term rentals,” said state Sen. Michelle Hinchey, of Saugerties.

The registry would require property owners to register their units with the Department of State every two years. There would be a small fee but supporters of the proposal stress that it’s not a new tax nor would it impact the rental options property owners have today.

A coalition of municipal leaders, housing advocates, people in the tourism and hospitality industry were at the Capitol Tuesday to share these concerns. They said a registry would provide more transparency across the hospitality sector and provide communities with the information and revenue needed to create a more well-balanced scenario when it comes to housing and short-term rentals.

“We don’t have a holistic view at the state level of what that looks like,” Hinchey said.

The Travel Technology Association has been working with been working with state lawmakers on this issue but believe a registry would have a negative impact.

“These policymakers continue to focus on instituting a complex system of regulation that would hurt the upstate economy, make travel more expensive, and reduce the income potential for thousands of New Yorkers who rent their homes to make ends meet,” said CEO Laura Chadwick.

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6 Hotel Pools Perfect for Swimmers

Many hotel pools are built with children and sun-seekers in mind: too short, too warm and too crowded. These, in cities across the U.S., let you get your laps in, in style.

By Julie Halpert

Michele Heisler, 61, is an avid swimmer, putting in 45 minutes three times a week in a local 25-yard-long pool. But swimming while traveling can be challenging. “Most hotel pools are too tiny or too crowded,” she said.

Then, while planning a trip to Chicago, Ms. Heisler, from Ann Arbor, Mich., came across a photo of the hotel pool of her dreams. In the Intercontinental Hotel, the 25-yard-long pool, built in 1929, is one of the oldest in Chicago and is surrounded by Greek-inspired marble decoration. “You feel like you’re swimming in an ancient Greek temple. It’s a magical experience,” said Ms. Heisler, who has stayed at the Intercontinental four times in the last 10 years because of the pool.

Even at a resort, swimming laps often means having to negotiate odd, and often short, lengths while keeping an eye out for cannonballing children in water that can feel like a hot tub. Finding a hotel pool that’s large enough for lap swimming in a big city is even more daunting. But they exist. Here are six hotel pools that are at least 25 yards long and provide ample space for lap swimming, as well as first-class ambience; some are open to visitors who are not spending the night. Most are open all day, but early morning hours will provide the best lap swim experience, hotel representatives say.

InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile

The setting: The south tower of the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile hotel was originally a private athletic club, complete with this indoor pool, which was host to the famous Olympic swimmer and actor Johnny Weissmuller, who broke records at the 1924 and 1928 Olympics.

The pool, on the hotel’s 14th floor, is “an architectural marvel complete with spectator seating and turrets” decorated with Spanish Majolica tiles, said Christopher Cawley, the hotel’s general manager. It has four swimming lanes. Lounge chairs surround the pool, and a newly renovated, multilevel fitness center is nearby.

Hours: Weekdays 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.; weekends 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. There are no times set aside especially for lap swimming.

Pool temperature: 84 degrees

Public access: Non-guests can purchase a resort pass online to use the pool and fitness facilities through Resort Pass , a platform that partners with hotels across the United States to offer day passes to access exclusive amenities. Prices vary depending on season, currently an adult day pass is $40.

Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

The setting: When the Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown opened in 2016, it included this 25-yard-long indoor pool designed, like the rest of the hotel’s interiors, by the interior design firm Yabu Pushelberg , originally from Canada.

The pool area features stone-clad columns, wood screens and a custom scratched-plaster finish on the walls to add to the soothing tranquillity of the space. “If you close your eyes, you feel like you are transported to the French Riviera,” said Thomas Carreras, the hotel’s general manager. He calls it a “sanctuary.” There is a mix of seating, from lounge chairs with plush white towels to comfortable love seats with oversize pillows. The pool is on the hotel’s third floor, along with the fitness facility and the spa. There is one designated lap lane.

Hours: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Pool temperature: 83 to 85 degrees

Public access: The pool is open to hotel guests and to members of Club 27, the hotel’s private wellness club.

The setting: The W Miami is within the IconBrickell complex and condominium development in Miami’s Brickell neighborhood, which was built in 2008; the W opened in 2016. Hotel guests and building residents have use of the complex’s outdoor pools, which include a reflection pool, a hot tub and a lap pool. The lap pool, which overlooks Biscayne Bay and has an infinity edge, is 205 feet long, 40 feet longer than an Olympic-size pool, making it somewhat mind-bending for swimmers used to more standardized lengths.

The pools’ design was inspired by the French designer Phillip Starck whose firm designed the common areas and residences of the complex. It is intended to be a “whimsical urban-chic version of the Champs-Élysées,” with the pool working as the avenue instead of concrete, said Arianna Calcaterra, the hotel’s director of marketing.

Gail Gensler, 63, who lives in a condominium apartment in the complex, swims there twice a week as soon as the pool opens, often at sunrise. “It’s very gorgeous when you’re watching the sun rise over the bay and you’re getting your workout in,” she said.

The pool is on a two-acre, resort-style pool deck. There are also lounge pools and cabanas, as well as a poolside restaurant serving food and beverages.

Hours: Guests can go as early as dawn to swim laps. Pool service, which includes towels and lifeguards, is offered from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Food service is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pool temperature: 78 to 82 degrees in the spring and fall and 76 to 78 degrees in the winter.

Guest access: The pool is managed by IconBrickell, the developer of the complex. Hotel guests have access along with residents of the complex.

Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans

The setting: Built in 2021, the 75-foot-long outdoor pool at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans overlooks the Mississippi River, and the mosaic-lined pool has a slight crescent bend to mirror the curve of the river.

The pool, on the hotel’s fifth floor, is also a consistent 3 feet 8 inches deep along its whole length and features underwater lighting and music. There are two designated lap lanes. It’s surrounded by chaise longues, a separate hot tub and four cabanas that are available for daily rental. A fitness center and spa are on the same floor. There’s also a poolside bar serving cocktails and food.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Pool temperature: 84 degrees.

Guest access: The pool is used by both hotel guests and residents of the property.

Conrad Nashville

The setting: Built in June 2022 when the Conrad Nashville opened, this outdoor pool is 81 feet long and is on the hotel’s roof deck on the third floor.

As you swim, you can take in views of Nashville, including Vanderbilt University, said Eumi Koh, the hotel’s general manager. Food and beverages are available in the pool area from May to October, but the pool is open year round. There are roughly 30 lounge chairs, all outfitted with umbrellas, along with day beds and dining tables and chairs. Three cabanas can be reserved. There are no lap lanes with ropes.

Hours: Sunrise to sunset. Food and beverage service is available Monday through Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Pool temperature: 85 to 89 degrees

Guest access: The pool is for hotel guests only.

Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter

The setting: The 75-foot-long indoor pool, located on the ground floor of the Cincinnati Marriott at RiverCenter, which is across the Ohio River from downtown Cincinnati, was renovated in 2020. Windows the length of the pool provide natural lighting, so “you don’t feel like you’re swimming in a cave,” said Shawnna Dunaway, the hotel’s director of sales and marketing. “It’s very open and light.”

She said the pool is particularly appealing to the hotel’s many corporate guests, who “can have that full workout of a full-length pool.” There are also lounge chairs surrounding the pool and a fitness center nearby. There are no lane dividers.

Guest access: Only hotel guests can use the pool.

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An earlier version of the headline with this article misstated the number of highlighted pools. As the article correctly notes, it is six, not five.

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