The 10 Most Romantic Weekend Getaways from New York City
As a couple in New York City, chances are you have already crossed many of the major attractions in the city off your date night bucket list. Once you have worked your way through the major must see destinations, you’ll likely start seeking out the hidden gems where you can focus on one another and create memories that will last a lifetime. Now, you want to get out of town together, and take a trip that you will never forget. Maybe it’s a spontaneous rendezvous packed up first thing in the morning, or a weekend you have been trying to plan for months on end. Whatever the occasion, a limited time frame doesn’t have to mean limited experiences. After all, New York City is within driving distance of a mini paradise in every direction. Regardless of your travel style and interests as a couple, there is the perfect two-or three-day vacation for you. Here, we have listed ten of the most romantic weekend getaways from New York City that will have you packing your bags and calling your significant other in no time.
Modern Art and Historic Architecture in the Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley is known not only for its gorgeous scenery, but also for its outstanding array of modern art and historic architecture. Only a quick drive from New York City, this is the perfect place to spend a cozy, laid-back weekend. You’ll spend your time strolling through art galleries and design centers, wandering around parks with incredible outdoor sculpture collections and visiting historic homes. Especially good for outdoor lovers, the Hudson Valley has a high degree of focus on blending love for art with nature. You will have an opportunity to visit both indoor and outdoor museums, and the Russel Wright Design Center, which offers free access to its 75 acres of woodland trails.
Local Art on the North Fork and South Fork
This weekend road trip to an earthy-hipster paradise is perfect for couples with a taste for modern art and low-intensity outdoor activity. As an added bonus, if you are a big believer in shopping local, this is a great vacation for you. With a major emphasis on up-and-coming local artists, the art scene along this drive is both diverse and culturally relevant. You will be able to peruse outdoor sculpture gardens and renowned art galleries by day and enjoy locally inspired menus and handcrafted cocktails by night, all before settling into your beachfront accommodations at the Sunset Beach Hotel. This stunning waterfront property is best known for its gorgeous sunset views and nightly live music, so you will definitely want to spend the whole evening taking in your surroundings.
Coastal Lighthouses and Majestic Waterfalls in Connecticut
If you love the romance of coastal towns, this quintessential East Coast experience is the perfect weekend getaway you have been looking for. Especially if you need a chance to slow down and experience living at a slower pace for a couple of days, this itinerary chock full of picnics, lazy beach days, lake swims and easy waterfall hikes will be right up your ally. You can even make a stop for gourmet ice cream or plan a romantic evening dinner featuring fresh, local seafood at OKO, an award-winning Japanese restaurant.
Beach Bonfires on the North Fork and South Fork
If you’re looking to savor the warmer weather and get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it might be time to upgrade the classic summer vacation with some romance. Nothing could be more intimate than a beach campfire under the stars, listening to your favorite music, following a classy dinner at an oceanside restaurant. All of this is possible thanks to Hampton Beach Service Bonfire and a wide array of well-reviewed dining options such as The Frisky Oyster and The North Fork Table and Inn. You can also infuse some adult fun into your trip with visits to the local distillery and vineyards.
Craft Spirits and Gourmet Food in the Hudson Valley
This one is for the foodies! Couples who enjoy a good meal and a fancy cocktail will delight in this weekend itinerary that hones in on some of the best culinary experiences in the Hudson Valley. You will visit cider houses, distilleries and ale houses to quench your thirst in afternoons and bounce around between the fanciest bistros the Hudson Valley has to offer, such as Serevan, a beautiful old farmhouse surrounded by gardens, in the evenings. If you’re looking for mega romance, you will love the ambiance of these five-star bistros and orchard experiences.
Hiking Mountains and Waterfalls in the Catskills
Nature enthusiasts and adventurous couples who find romance in exploring new places together, will absolutely fall in love with a getaway to the Catskills. You can climb up to the summits of two different mountains, hike into, and beneath, Kaaterskill Falls and take a scenic bike ride through the forest. At the end of the day, you will have the opportunity to come back and relax at a local mountain lodge and marvel at the stunning landscapes that surround you. Scribner's Catskill Lodge is an eclectic, laid-back retreat with gorgeous hilltop views you will never forget.
Scenic Beaches and Pedal Boats on the Jersey Shore
If your idea of a dream couple’s weekend is full of experiences straight out of a romance novel this romantic trip to the seashore will have you swooning. While many people think of the Jersey Shore as a series of crowded tourist towns, there are plenty of beaches that will give you access to white sands, quiet boardwalk strolls and chance to lay back and relax. There is also a clothing optional beach for couples looking to step out of their comfort zone together. We highly recommend an afternoon date in Asbury Park, where you can transport yourself into the past and take a ride in vintage pedal boats - move over Nicholas Sparks.
Drive-in Movies and Art Trails in Pennsylvania
If you are a couple who thinks that a blast from the past is part of any perfect date night - then this road trip to Pennsylvania is your perfect weekend getaway. Get ready to combine major nostalgia with a steamy evening date, since Pennsylvania has its own drive-in movie theatre, which regularly screens the classics. Of course, you will have plenty to keep you entertained throughout the day as well with nature reserves and art museums. In fact, film fanatics may be happy to note that the Art Quest Centre also has an ale-house movie theatre for screening up and coming films. This way you can catch some oldie-but-goodies and some inspiring, local cinematography all in one weekend. If you need a little break from city life, and crave a walk among the trees, you can also check out the Karl Stirner Arts Trail which features 16 outdoor art installations.
Modern Art and Meditation in The Hamptons
If you’re looking for some relaxation and time to really connect as a couple, you should definitely consider a weekend trip to the Hamptons. Did you know the Hamptons have three different art institutions, two of which are beachside, and their own meditation center? Depending on where you are staying, you may also be able to take advantage of morning yoga classes and some poolside lounging. Frankly, there’s nothing more romantic than being able to completely unwind together, after some gentle museum going, in a beach paradise. You might even consider booking some couples massages, or other spa treatments. If fine dining is more intriguing to you, then you definitely need to visit Calissa, a local restaurant that serves a spectacular menu of fresh seafood with a Mediterranean flair.
Apple Orchards and Craft Breweries in Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley is known for its beautiful landscape, adorable inns and authentic culinary experiences. Just like Bordeaux is known for its fine wine, Hudson Valley is world renowned for its apple cider. The Hudson Valley is home to over 30 pristine apple orchards. If you’re looking for a cool vibe and a flight of apple cider then you should stop by Brooklyn Cider House. If you want to learn more about the history of apple cider and the production process than you should check out Angry Orchard Innovation Center. After tasting a range of apple ciders you may want to adventure over to one of the most unique sour breweries in the United States. If this sparks your interest then make sure to stop by Hudson Vally Brewery in the laid back town of Beacon, NY. Afterwards you can have a romantic meal at Brasserie 292, which uses the best local ingredients for a fresh Hudson Valley inspired meal.
If any of these trips sound perfect for you and your favorite person, don’t hesitate to give them a try. Every weekend is the perfect weekend for a little getaway, especially when you live in New York City.
