10 Amazing Hidden Gems Outside New York City
If you have worked your way religiously through the back pages of city forums looking for hidden gems inside New York City, chances are you try to do the same thing when planning getaways outside the city. It can be hard to find these underrated holy grail locations, especially when working outside of your usual playground. If not by word of mouth, where will you find these museums, hotels, restaurants and natural attractions that are simply not common knowledge? Thankfully, we have done the work for you. Whether you are planning a day trip, weekend getaway or weeklong vacation with your friends, you will love these semi-local attractions that fall just under the radar.
A Room at The Beach
A Room at the Beach, in Bridgehampton, NY, is the perfect destination for the laid-back bohemian traveler who wants to relax and experience nature. This boutique hotel is located on a few acres of old growth trees right by the beach and features a series of patios, manicured lawns and poolside chaises for lounging. If you're a fan of al fresco dining, you’ll love their picnic tables under twinkling string lights, and fire pits for roasting marshmallows. If you’re looking for a relaxing way to get to and from the beach, you will also have access to the hotel’s beach bikes.
Elaia Estiatorio
This charming Greek restaurant in Bridgehampton, NY, is sure to be one of your new favorite date night locations. While the expertly crafted menu is largely Mediterranean, the restaurant itself has a peaceful garden feel with light colors, light woods and linens. If you are looking for a quiet ambiance to enjoy your favorite Grecian classics - then this is the place for you. They also have a Greek pantry market where you can pick up some of your favorite olive oils and spreads to take home.
Build Your Own Surfboard: Grain
Whether you are an avid surfer who plans trips to the coast regularly, or a DIY fanatic who loves coastal interior design, a trip to Grain Surfboards just west of Montauk might be in your future. Regardless of your intentions to use it as a functional piece, or for decor in your home, you will definitely enjoy this crafty take on weekend getaway. Grain surfboards, a local surfing company, offers build your own surfboard classes that are worth a trip all on their own. This once in a lifetime opportunity will allow you to embrace your creative side and learn about the process of board building. Spanning over 3-5 days, this workshop will put you right on the coast to enjoy some surfing, fine dining or some R & R when the classes are over.
Wolffer Estate Vineyard
As everyone knows, there are always several ways one can enjoy a good vineyard experience. Of course, Wolffer Estate Vineyard is no exception. You can always book a tour of the vineyards for up to six guests which includes wine and food pairings, or you can enjoy some sips and eats on your own through either of the vineyard’s dining options. Nestled upon 55 acres, the main kitchen and tasting room at Wolffer Estates have very modern, classy interiors, and menus focusing on smaller bites and appetizers. In addition to its regular dining/tasting rooms, the vineyard also owns the Wolffer Estate Wine Stand which offers a more casual, outdoor atmosphere for weekend guests. Besides its regular fixed menu, the stand also offers bento boxes and charcuterie plates for picnics on the vineyard grounds.
Art without Barriers: The Accessible Sculpture Garden
This sculpture garden on the North Fork is completely unique, and was created for the sole purpose of being an accessible way to experience art. The 18 installations were designed to break down the barriers to accessing museums, and particularly focus on multimedia experiences for the visually impaired, including the use of descriptive audio and sound. It is located on the Peconic Landing campus and also presents a nice opportunity to spend the day outside, strolling along the campus’ paths.
The Asbury Ocean Club
The Asbury Ocean Club is a stunning hotel on the Jersey Shore, that expertly mirrors the blended modern and retro vibes of Asbury Park. They have both garden and pool terraces overlooking the ocean, if you need a place to relax and swim. However, it is also perched directly on the beach so you can always take a dip in the ocean if you prefer. Their spa is well recognized for its services as well as its rooftop yoga class offerings. While all of this sounds like a slow-paced place to rejuvenate, it’s also worth mentioning that the Asbury Ocean Club has no shortage of entertainment options. The hotel features two bars, one by the pool and the other in a music room and is also in close proximity to Asbury Lanes - a combination music venue and bowling alley.
The Hewitt Wellington
The Hewitt Wellington is an historic boutique hotel on the Jersey Shore, that makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic seaside vacation. Their luxury guest rooms feature a gorgeous blend of modern and antique decor and the hotel has a large wraparound porch with plenty of rocking chairs for guests to enjoy their morning coffee overlooking the manicured lawns. Especially if you are looking for a classic coastal feel, we can’t think of a more relaxing way to spend the weekend.
Charlie’s of Bay Head
Charlie’s of Bay Head is a multi-level lakeside restaurant, in Bay Head, NJ, particularly well known for their Sunday brunch. That being said, Charlie’s also has an extensive cocktail and beer list, so happy hour cocktails are also a great idea. Of course, the highlight of their lunch and dinner menus is fresh seafood, and customers frequently rave about their oysters if you are looking for something new to try. If you are looking for a more casual approach to fine dining, look no further. At Charlie’s you will be able to enjoy world class views and entrées, in a laid back and approachable atmosphere.
Shades of Death Trail - Hickory Run State Park
Fans of hiking, with a wide range of skill sets in their group will love the Shades of Death Trail that runs through Hickory State Park. The trail is an intermediate 2.2-mile path that is well known for being a phenomenal spot for bird watching, and leads to a gorgeous waterfall where you can take a break and cool off. The trail is dog friendly and can easily be combined with other trails throughout the park if you’re looking to make it a full day or several day affair.
Owowcow
This creamery is proud to serve over a dozen ice cream flavors, made entirely by hand, including the pasteurization process. Owowcow takes great pride in being an environmentally friendly brand, making their ice creams as low-impact as possible, while still maintaining high quality and robust flavor. They utilize only the finest, local and organic ingredients, ranging from cage free eggs to raw honey, and have also removed all plastics from their shops. They have also handcrafted a selection of vegan flavors, so if you are looking for some sustainable ice cream to satisfy your sweet tooth, Owowcow is definitely worth the drive.
If you didn’t believe it before, now you know just how much New York, and its surrounding areas, have to offer. We hope you will make time to visit all of these hidden gems within driving distance of your home. It’s time for you to experience some of the best kept secrets that have been right in your backyard all along.
