Whether you are new to New York, or you have been living here your whole life, chances are there are some really incredible experiences right under your nose that you have been missing this whole time. In a world full of bucket lists and Pinterest boards, it is literally impossible to see and do everything. However, there are some experiences throughout New York that we think every New Yorker needs to have at some point in their lives. Thankfully, these trips are quick, easy and worth every minute. The next time you have a spare weekend, sit down with your best friend, your sister, your dad, your partner (or you can even fly solo) and plan to take one of these stellar weekend getaways.

Hiking Mountains and Waterfalls in the Catskills

If you are looking for a break from the city lights, look no further than this quiet, outdoor adventure. You will absolutely fall in love with the Catskills as you hike through forests and climb to the top of mountains. We recommend hiking Hunter Mountain via the Becker Hollow Trail. After all, it is among the highest summits in the Northeast, and the single highest in New York, which is definitely something worth bragging about when you return home. This is the shortest route, at only 2 miles, but is still very steep and quite challenging. It will not disappoint even the most experienced backpackers. If hiking isn’t exactly your forte, we highly recommend renting a bicycle during your stay, which you can use to explore the hiking trails or the nearby area. Scribner's Catskill Lodge will provide stunning landscapes and quaint accommodations that will quickly make this quick trip your new favorite getaway.

Apple Orchards and Craft Breweries in the Hudson Valley

This unique itinerary kicks the weekend off with lunch at Angry Orchard, where you can roam the grounds, learn about cider production and experience farm-to-table dining. After that, the weekend shifts to focus on discovering the craft breweries of the Hudson Valley and sampling their newest brews. We think this is the perfect opportunity to kick back and enjoy your weekend with some friends, and a brewery tour is a trip that everyone needs to take at least once in their lifetime. Hudson Valley Brewery is one the best up-and-coming breweries in the country and is known for its unique sours.

Craft Cider and Breweries in the Hudson Valley

If you were liking the sound of the last itinerary and wanted expand your net just a little, then this getaway is just for you. Over the weekend you will visit two craft cider houses, two breweries, two vineyards and even a distillery. A visit to Pennings Farm is a great way to start off, and once you have worked up an appetite, you can visit Blue Hill At Stone Barns, which is ranked the second best restaurant in the United States and twelfth in the entire world. This is the perfect boozy vacation, with just the right amount of adult sophistication. Just make sure you bring along a designated driver or take turns so everyone can enjoy responsibly.

Local Art on the North Fork and South Fork

If you are an art lover with a deep appreciation for nature, you will completely adore this weekend away. With multiple opportunities to explore the works of local artists at galleries, museums and outdoor installations, you will feel totally immersed in the local culture. It is also worth mentioning that the North Fork and South Fork offer a wide selection of high-end restaurants, many of which work very hard to ensure their menus are locally inspired and their ingredients are locally sourced. The Vine Street Café, in particular, is known for working directly with local fishermen and farmers to ensure the highest quality ingredients are incorporated into their menu. At the end of the day, you will be happy to settle into the Sunset Beach Hotel where you can watch yachts in the harbor and lounge among the rolling sands.

Wine Tasting on the North Fork and South Fork

This getaway is perfect for a girls’ weekend, a bachelorette party, or frankly, anyone who appreciates a really fine wine. The North Fork and South Fork are home to three separate wine cellars and vineyards including family-owned and renowned Bedell Cellars. Of course, fine wine always calls for a complimentary fine dining experience, which you will have plenty of. You will even make an appearance at the Southampton Social Club where celebrities have been known to frequent, so keep an eye out for some VIPs while you sip your cocktails and enjoy your lunch.

Scenic Waterfalls in Pennsylvania

At least once, every New Yorker should take the opportunity to get out of the city and re-immerse themselves in nature. This trip is the perfect way to do so with four stunning hikes that will suit every activity level. These trails range from climbing small mountains, to strolling along streams, to searching for waterfalls, where you might even choose to take an afternoon dip. We recommend checking out the view of the Delaware River Gap from Mt. Tammany, by following the Red Dot Trail. This hike is not ideal for beginners but will be highly rewarding when you reach the summit. Of course, after all that walking and exposure to the elements, you will be ready to put your feet up and relax. Luckily, we have recommended a wonderful cabin retreat, the Clean and Cozy Woodland Cabin, where you can unwind.

Surfing and Laid-Back Beaches on Montauk

Have you ever wanted to learn to surf? Maybe you already know how, but you haven't found an excuse to pull out the old wetsuit in ages. When people think of surf vacations, they often picture tropical islands and massive waves. However, Montauk is only a short drive from New York City and is a really great surfing destination for a weekend getaway. You should definitely plan to catch some waves while you are there, but you should also keep in mind that as a laid-back surfer town, Montauk is set-up to be the perfect backdrop for some relaxation - we recommend a visit to Scarpetta Beach at Gurney’s Montauk. So whichever way you choose to enjoy the beach, you will be super glad knowing that you found this little paradise away from the urban jungle. If you would also like a little taste of the forest over the weekend, you might want to consider a hike along the Point Woods Loop Trail.

Modern Architecture in Connecticut

If you often find yourself glancing up at buildings as you walk around the city and marveling at the architecture and design, then this is a trip for you. Connecticut is full of new, high-design buildings and each of them has a unique story. Spend a relaxing afternoon sightseeing in a new place and snapping some pics of the cool structures and interiors along the way. You can also treat yourself to some delicious meals along the way which sounds like a win-win to us. If you are looking for a more historic experience, you definitely need to book a tour of the Historic House at Kykuit, which was owned by multiple generations of the Rockefeller family. During your stay you will be happy to settle down at the Delamar Southport, which has cute New England themed decor, that will transport you to a whole new world.

Scenic Beaches and Pedal Boats on the Jersey Shore

Parks, beaches, pedal boats...what more could you ask for? If you are looking for a sweet weekend getaway with a little bit of vintage flair, then this is it. Along the Jersey Shore, you will find boardwalks with carnival games, candy floss and lots of opportunities for people watching from behind your big sunglasses. Try Long Branch Beach for a relaxed, yet lively atmosphere. Later in the day, you can go pedal boating with your dearest friends in a pretty lake in Asbury Park and then treat yourself to a classic martini at The Asbury Hotel. When you rent your car, you might even want to upgrade to a convertible, because this is the perfect place to roll the top down and let your hair fly in the wind.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding in Jersey Shore

If you have never been stand up paddle boarding, you definitely need to give it a go with The Endless SUP Company on the Jersey Shore. It is a great way to decompress after a stressful week, and the Jersey Shore is the perfect place to go to do it. You won’t have any trouble finding a quiet spot and still water for playing around, and when you're ready, you will have plenty of nightlife and dining options for later in the evenings. We recommend a visit to the Shrimp Box where you can enjoy some world-class seafood in a laid-back, harborside atmosphere.

If you are a fan of a good bucket list, we know how much thought goes into all the experiences you need to have some day. As New Yorkers ourselves, we hope you have added all ten of these amazing destinations to yours, because we know they are on all of ours. We are very lucky to live in such close proximity to amazing destinations in every direction, and we hope you choose to take advantage of that opportunity as often as you can, starting with these incredible itineraries.