27 Charming Weekend Winter Getaways from NYC + Hidden Gems

Winter can feel a little claustrophobic in New York City. But don’t let the limited daylight and cold stop you from enjoying some New York winter wonderland fun! Take a break from the city, and plan an NYC winter weekend getaway! There are several cute towns in Upstate New York and the Tri-State area, just waiting for you to explore the snowy landscape and winter attractions. So whether you’re looking for the best slopes or just a comfy cabin with a fireplace, there’s an NYC winter getaway for everyone on this list!

Table of Contents

Getting Around: Transportation Out of NYC

Getting around the USA if you’re a New Yorker can be tricky. Most of us don’t own cars! But worry not. There are different ways to get around. From trains to buses to car rentals — here is how to plan your NYC winter getaway.

TRAINS for NYC Winter Escapes

The Metro-North and Amtrak are wonderful options to help you plan an NYC weekend getaway. Most New York towns with an Amtrak or Metro-North train station (like Cold Spring or Beacon) are more walkable and offer an array of things to do. And best of all? Reduced risk of driving in the snow!

BUSES for New York Getaways

Different bus companies can take you to several weekend destinations from NYC. Check Wanderu for different routes and bus companies. Here are just a few:

Trailways is GREAT for getting you to some of the best places in Upstate New York. Including towns like New Paltz, Geneva, Buffalo, Lake Placid, Lake George, Kingston, Ithaca, Phoenicia, Woodstock, etc.
Greyhound (Mostly to the bigger cities in New York state)
Jitney (North Fork, Hamptons, and other parts of Long Island)

Best NY Car Rentals + Budget Tips

Unless you’re going to a city, renting a car is the best way to get around in this country. With a car, you can venture out of small towns to explore our best lakes and frozen waterfalls in New York on your own schedule.

BEST RENTAL COMPANY: I like using BUDGET to rent cars in Upstate New York. They’re cheaper and have an online check-in process, so you don’t have to wait in a long line to get your car.
WHERE TO RENT: To avoid expensive NYC rates and the horrible traffic of leaving the city, I take a train up north to Albany or North White Plains. From there, I go to one of the car rental places for rates that are a fraction of NYC’s.
Lastly, consider a long-term rental to lower the daily rate.
Use a credit card like the Chase Sapphire, which includes car rental insurance.
Book way ahead of time.
WATCH THE WEATHER! It is dangerous to drive in the snow once it starts sticking.

Places to Visit in New York State in Winter

For out-of-state NYC weekend winter getaways, scroll down to the next section below! The list below includes all Upstate New York regions, from the Hudson Valley to the Adirondacks and beyond. Scroll down for other states!

1. Lake Clear, NY (Hidden Gem) ★

Lake Clear, NY is another one of my personal favorites and a hidden gem. Here, you can stay at the Lake Clear Lodge. This lodge looks like something out of a movie. It offers seasonal amenities like a winter speakeasy and lantern-lit sleigh rides. And they also have free snowshoeing and cross-country skiing right on-site! Some of the private chalet suites have fireplaces for you to warm up in between outdoor adventures.

It’s just 12 minutes from Saranac Lake and 30 minutes from Lake Placid. So you could easily stay in one of these three towns and enjoy the best winter activities each one offers.

Distance from NYC: 5 hr 30 mins from NYC
Transportation: car only

Where to Stay in Lake Clear, NY

White Pine Camp: a restored Adirondack Great Camp with cozy cottages and cabins fixed with wood stoves, fireplaces, and stunning lake views.
Lake Clear Lodge: (mentioned above)

2. Lake Placid, NY ★

Lake Placid is my favorite winter wonderland in Upstate New York, offering endless outdoor activities and a lively downtown.

If you love the winter outdoors, head to Whiteface Mountain for snowboarding and skiing along world-renowned trails. You can also take some private lessons and get an all-season Gondola Ride. But my favorite? Walking on the frozen Mirror Lake. It was thrilling!

If you want something easier, consider going snowmobiling. Adirondack Snowmobiles has great snowmobile rentals and tours through some of the most scenic trails in the region. We also have a dedicated article on snowmobiling in Upstate New York for more options.

For relaxation, consider wine tasting, and visiting the spa resorts, and breweries.

Of course, Lake Placid is most famous for its Winter Olympics history. So if you’re into the Olympics or sports history, head to the Winter Olympic Museum, check out the ski jumps, and visit the Olympic Village.

Distance from NYC: 5 hr 30 mins
Transportation: car or bus

Where to Stay in Lake Placid

Whiteface Lodge also has spacious suites with traditional Adirondack decor, an award-winning spa, campfires, and ice skating.
Mirror Lake Inn is located downtown, offering classic views of Mirror Lake and easy access to the best restaurants in Lake Placid.
Lake Placid Lodge offers a quiet and luxurious lodge with stunning lake views.
Check out the rest of our Lake Placid hotel recommendations!

3. Hunter, NY

Hunter is a perfect weekend getaway spot for New Yorkers in the winter, only 40 minutes from the beautiful Catskills mountains. But most famously, Hunter Mountain has been the town’s claim to fame, attracting snow sport lovers. This mountain even offers a vertical drop of 1,600 feet and 240 skiable acres. Oh, and they even have winter ziplining!

Snow tubers will love the snow tubing park, where you can book a two-hour session riding nearly 1000-foot-long lanes. For a break, check out Crossroads Craft Beer Company for local brews or slow down at the Catskill Mountain Foundation Shop and browse local goods, books, and more.

Distance from NYC: 2.5 hours
Transportation: bus or car
Organized Tour: Comfort Ski for $55 round trip

Where to Stay in Hunter, NY

Scribner’s Catskill Lodge is a stunning hotel in Hunter where minimalism and rustic charm meet. They truly embrace the hygge Scandinavian culture, focusing on comfort foods, simple pleasures, warm cozy fireplaces, and woodstoves (and lots of books!)
Foxfire Mountain House is another great lodging option set on 10 private acres with luxurious features like stone fireplaces, sheepskin rugs, and vintage leather and velvet sofas for a bohemian vibe. The inn is secluded and private, perfect for couples.

4. Saratoga Springs, NY ★

strolling through the town of saratoga springs — Frozen lake

Saratoga Springs is a thrill to visit in the winter, just south of exciting snowboarding trails, downhill skiing slopes, and other snow sports at West Mountain in Queensbury. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers will love Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center, one of the top destinations for these sports, with a XC Ski Center offering 38km of trails. If you’re visiting in December, you can enjoy festive events like the Victorian Streetwalk Weekend and Saratoga Festival of the Trees or support local farmers at the Winter Indoor Farmers Market running from November to April.

Distance: 3 hrs 45 minutes from NYC
Transportation: car, bus, plane

Where to Stay in Saratoga Springs, NY

Saratoga Arms is an award-winning hotel built in 1870 and beautifully restored with period antiques and custom decor. Offering spacious suites with grand elements and amenities like fireplaces, double whirlpools, and a 24-hour front desk. Their onsite restaurant is delicious and famous for its farm-to-table breakfast and tapas.
Adelphi Hotel: Located in the downtown of Saratoga Springs, this historic hotel offers gorgeous rooms and a beautiful bar/restaurant.

5. Saranac Lake, NY

Saranac Lake is a cute small town in the Adirondacks and another popular winter Adirondack destination! Their Winter Carnival is a major draw, featuring 10 days of games, live entertainment, a parade, and the famous Ice Palace.

For indoor fun, visitors can explore the Saranac Laboratory Museum and lots of art galleries, including Saranac Lake ArtWorks.

For active outdoors, snowshoeing can be found at Dewey Mountain Recreation, and snowmobilers will have a blast on the trails in the area (like Charlie’s Inn or the Farmhouse Snowmobiling — both are excellent for guided tours and rentals!)

Where to Stay in Saranac Lake

The Point Resort is a mix of rustic and luxury amenities secluded on 75 acres with Great Camp-style dining and excellent cuisine. They focus on winding down and unplugging from the world; ideal for guests 21 and older who are looking for peace and quiet.
Hotel Saranac is right downtown. This hotel was built in 1927 and features time-period-appropriate decor, a wonderful spa, a restaurant, and a cool bar on the second floor. (Pictured Above)

6. Lake George, NY

Lake George is just as active in the winter as it is in the summer!

The Winter Carnival and Ice Castles are some of the most popular winter attractions in Lake George! Then there is Winterfest, the newest event– a season-long offer that includes discounts on horse-drawn carriages, hot chocolate stations, and discounts at participating hotels and restaurants. These events are perfect for all ages, but the ice bars are, of course, only for those 21 years of age and up.

For the active outdoors, there also are ample trails for snowmobiling on the Thurman Trail System and in the town of Schroon Lake (25 minutes away). You can also go snowshoeing, ice skating, skiing, and the New Year’s Polare Plunge!

Distance: 3.5 hrs from NYC
Transporation: How to Get to Lake George from NYC

Where to Stay in Lake George

The Inn at Erlowest: Guests will love the Victorian-style decor of this inn, with fine cuisine and gorgeous lake views. The rooms are spacious with turn-of-the-century designs and include jacuzzi tubs and fireplaces.
The Lodges at Cresthaven: These luxury lodges are perfect for a Lake George winter getaway, featuring oversized soaking tubs and an indoor pool with lake views. Winter guests can also enjoy the Grotto Spa, fitness center, game room, indoor pool, lakeside fireplace, and lounge.
The Sagamore is a winter wonderland hotel settled right on Green Island. It’s secluded from the busiest parts of Lake George, giving tranquil lake vibes. Don’t miss out on the glacier ice bar!

7. New Paltz, NY

Great Northern Catskills of Greene County

New Paltz is a fun, bohemian town with many local shops, antique stores, and eateries. Minnewaska State Park is a breathtaking site in the winter for cold-weather hikers, cross-country skiers and snowshoers. If you love authentic german food, you must try the Mountain Brauhaus, a perfect place to grab a bite between exploring breweries like Clemson Bros Brewery and Bacchus Brewing Company.

Distance: 4 hrs 45 minutes from NYC
Mohonk Mountain House [book here]; Audrey’s Farmhouse [book here]
Transportation: Car or Trailways bus

Where to Stay in New Paltz, NY

Mohonk Mountain House: This famous hotel is secluded in the mountains and offers various amenities, from spa treatments, private wellness sessions, ice skating, cross-country skiing, 30 miles of Nordic trails, and so much more.
Audrey’s Farmhouse Bed & Breakfast is a modern bed and breakfast in Walkill, 17 minutes from New Paltz, with rave-worthy hospitality.

8. Windham, NY

Windham is another town winter sports enthusiasts will love, with Windham Mountain Adventure Park boasting amazing trails, dining, and spas for when you need to relax. Just be sure to check that it’s snowed recently, or the trails here can be icy, which isn’t safe (been there, done that).

Not into sports? Buy a ticket to Magic on Main, a unique magic show hosted in a private library, or sample some wine at Ze Wine Bar. You can also peruse paintings at Windham Fine Arts or search for one-of-a-kind gifts at the European Craft Store.

Distance: 2 hrs 40 minutes from NYC
Transportation: Car or bus

Where to Stay in Windham, NY

Eastwind Hotel & Bar is a true Catskill mountain getaway in Windham with cool amenities, including the outdoor wood barrel sauna, chic bar and lounger, and authentic German pancakes. You can stay in the main hotel or the posh A-frame cabins, all designed with Scandinavian hygge features and vintage pieces.
For small-town hospitality, Albergo Allegria Hotel is a wonderful Victorian-style bed and breakfast that makes its own bread and butter!

9. Tupper Lake, NY

Tupper Lake is a serene town close to all the snowy fun of the Adirondacks with some unique indoor attractions. The Wild Center is an amazing wildlife experience that hosts a Winter Week in February with special events such as ice fishing and free snowshoe rentals. Tupper Lake is also close to some of the best Adirondack breweries–like Raquette River Brewing and Hex & Hop– and has a spectacular donut shop located in a laundromat!

For outdoor lovers, don’t miss Coney Mountain for epic star gazing and hiking trails! Tupper Lake is also one of the best places to go snowmobiling in New York!

Distance: 5 hrs 30 minutes from NYC
Transportation: Car or bus

10. Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow, NY

Tarrytown is only 30 minutes north of Manhattan, easily accessible by train. This is just the spot for New Yorkers who want a quick and easy getaway. Join the Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow Winter Stroll in December–where shops and eateries extend their hours, hand out holiday treats, and host festive events– or tour the famous Lyndhurst Mansion with stunning Gothic architecture. Art and music lovers can catch a show at the Tarrytown Music Hall or browse for handmade masterpieces at Ona gift shop and gallery.

Don’t miss eating at Goosefeather or Farmer and the Fish. Both are excellent restaurants!

30 minutes from NYC
Metro-North train, bus, car

Where to Stay in Tarrytown, NY

Castle Hotel and Spa is an excellent place to stay in Tarrytown, perched high over the Hudson River, with amazing views through stained glass windows. Crystal chandeliers hang from grand halls with cathedral ceilings. The private dining and massage services let you stay warm and private– plus, there’s free breakfast!

11. Indian Lake & Blue Mountain Lake, NY ★

Snow sport lovers flock to Indian Lake for its proximity to Gore Mountain alpine ski resort and fun winter festivals. Soncade is the most popular festival celebrating all things snow for one week in February with a parade, fireworks, a youth hockey game, and more. If you love snowmobiles, plan your trip around the Vintage Snowmobile Races in Inlet, where you can see several restored and unrestored sleds battle for victory.

For snowboarding and skiing, head to Oak Mountain, just 30 minutes away! And for history/culture, head to the Adirondack Experience Museum.

Where to Stay in Indian Lake, NY

If you just want to stay warm and cozy inside, book The Bear Lodge. This accommodation is set on set on 11-arcres of state land with a view of the great sleeping hills and has warm log cabin decor, perfect for an Adirondack getaway. It accommodates 9 guests, has a firepit and wood stove, and it’s close to the Adirondack Museum.

12. Big Indian, NY

Big Indian is a smaller town in the Catskills, close to a lot of winter excitement with low-key winter activities for travelers looking to relax. You’re only 5 minutes from Belleayre Mountain, one of the best ski resorts in New York, with 55 trails for skiers and snowboards and 8 lifts. Try exploring the nearby Shandeaken Historical Museum or book a Tour with Donavan to visit the hamlet’s wineries, breweries, and historical spots.

3 hrs from NYC
- Car, bus, train

Where to Stay in Big Indian, NY

Urban Cowboy Lodge in Big Indian is a fantastic hotel with a very strong Montana dude ranch vibe and taxidermy style. The hotel offers oversized soaking tubs, an Estonian sauna, and Alpine bathing suites.
For a classic bed and breakfast, try the Shandaken Inn. The mountain views here are wonderful, with fireplaces in every room, making for a warm and cozy stay.

13. Hudson, NY

Hudson is a thriving art community in Upstate New York with a ton of stuff to do. History buffs will love the Olana State Historic Site, the former home of landscape artist Frederic Church, with numerous sculptures, paintings, and antique pieces to view. Warren Street is the place to stroll for a mile of historic buildings, art galleries, antique shops, and vibrant storefronts. You can also catch a show at Hudson Hall or browse the FASY Museum of Firefighting.

2 hrs 20 minutes from NYC
Car, bus, Amtrak train

Where to Stay in Hudson, NY

beautiful interior of hotel in hudson ny — Maker Hotel

The Amelia is a newly renovated Queen Anne-style private residence, perfect for guests looking for a quiet getaway full of culture. The hotel hosts its own special events, such as art exhibits and author talks.
Another great pick is The Maker Hotel, an elegant, bohemian paradise in the historic downtown area made for close-knit, intimate gatherings and features several vintage and artisan pieces from local craftsmen.

14. Stone Ridge, NY

Stone Ridge is a stunning small town in the Catskills, full of orchards, farms, antique shops, and an eclectic mix of attractions. It’s been a peaceful escape for city folks for centuries, boasting amazing dining options such as sushi and hibachi at Momiji Japanese Steakhouse and the delectable short ribs at Butterfield Restaurant. Stone Ridge Orchard has live music, craft beers, wines, cider tastings, and wood fire-pizzas on Friday and Saturday evenings in the winter.

2 hrs from NYC

Where to Stay in Stone Ridge, NY

Both an attraction and hotel, the Hasbrouck House is a gorgeous bed and breakfast featuring an 18th-century Dutch Colonial mansion with 20 rooms spread across the main house, carriage house, and stable houses. It’s famous for its farm-to-table cuisine, complimentary yoga, and easy access to the vibrant towns of Kingston and Woodstock. It’s also home to the Butterfield Restaurant and The Cauldron Bar, a winter-inspired outdoor lounge.

15. North Creek, NY

Ski and snowboarding enthusiasts love North Creek for its proximity to some of the best slopes in the Adirondacks. This ski town is home to Gore Mountain, one of the crown jewels of skiing and snowboarding in the region. It stretches 444 acres, with trails on four peaks, a 2,537 vertical drop (fifth highest in the East), and an extended Ski Bowl Park with nordic skiing and racing. There are a bunch of little shops and eateries to visit when you’re looking for a ski break– visit Barkeater Chocolate for the best treats in town!

There’s also a garnet gemstone mine in the region! There, you can find your own garnet and jewelry, and see how the gemstone is cut. This town is also near Lake George!

4 hrs from NYC
Car or bus

Where to Stay in North Creek, NY

The Alpine Lodge is a great lodging option if you want to stay local. It’s the first smart hotel in the northern region with a modern take on Adirondack Great Camp and wood stoves to keep it cozy.
Garnet Hill Lodge is more of a classic mountain hotel only 15 minutes from Gore Mountain, with a large garnet fireplace and rustic rooms, some with private balconies.

16. Amenia, NY

This upstate gem is perfect for a chill winter getaway far from the busy snow sports crowds. Just over 2 miles away from Amenia is Sharon, CT, which has a beautiful historic downtown and the Sharon Playhouse, a small-town theatre with professional shows at affordable prices. Amenia is also close to the town of Millbrook, which has several local shops, antique stores, and the Millbrook Vineyard & Winery.

2 hrs from NYC
Car or bus

Where to Stay in Amenia, NY

Troutbeck is the true attraction in Amenia, serving as a destination for poets, creatives, and romantics. This hotel sits on a 250-acre 18th-century estate secluded in Amenia and has hosted many famous writers: Mark Twain, Waldo Emerson, and Ernest Hemingway! It also has a new wellness facility and scenic views perfect for gazing out on a winter landscape.

17. Tannersville, NY

Tannersville is a fun upstate town known as the ‘painted village in the sky,” surrounded by breathtaking views of the Catskill Mountains. The town is close to all the region’s winter outdoor activities, like the Mountain Trails Cross Country Ski Center. You’d like to spend one of your winter day trips from New York City here. The downtown is what draws visitors, with painted brightly painted buildings lining the streets highlighting the fantastic local cuisine like Last Chance Cheese & Antique Cafe.

1 hrs 30 minutes from NYC

Where to Stay in Tannersville, NY

Deer Mountain Inn is a boutique hotel in Tannersville that’s a great winter getaway for couples. The inn is set on 168 acres, with only 6 rooms, two cottages, and lots of privacy. Each room has a private fireplace and concierge service, perfect for a romantic vacation.

18. Highland, NY

Tucked away in the Hudson Valley, Highland is an amazing winter getaway for families. The Winter Fun Park at the Rocking Horse Ranch has ice skating, snow tubing, skiing, and lessons for beginners. For those 21 and up, there are some fantastic breweries to visit, like the Bad Seed Cider and Underground Coffee and Ales, just a short walk from the Walkway of the Hudson, where you can see stunning views of the valley from an old train bridge. You can also take the kids to the Midhudson Discovery Museum, which is newly renovated and ready for exploration.

Distance: 1 hrs 50 minutes from NYC

Where to Stay in Highland, NY

Rocking Horse Ranch Resort is a dream stay for any traveler who loves horses. This all-inclusive hotel has a ton of things to do, from the indoor water park to horseback riding, horse-drawn carriage ridges, and family-style campfires. They host fantastic seasonal events for guests all year round, like Holidays at the Ranch, with special holiday lights and a visit from Santa!

19. Geneva, NY

Geneva is one of my favorite towns in the Finger Lakes. The Finger Lakes region is home to stunning state parks and amazing local museums.

Don’t miss the Rose Hill Mansion overlooking Seneca Lake. Geneva’s historic downtown is full of shops and entertainment, including the Smith Opera House– the cultural hub of Ontario County– which hosts live performances, plays, and more for $10-12 a ticket. If you fancy wine, take a Winewagon Tour, where groups of all sizes get to ride in a retro-style Volkwagon to all the best wineries in town.

5.5 hours from NYC
Car or bus

Where to Stay in Geneva, NY

Geneva on the Lake: Located right on the lake, this is a classic Upstate New York hotel.
Belhurst Castle: A historical site that’s been named the world’s best wine hotel as it’s located right on a winery, with a spa and two restaurants.

20. Rhinebeck, NY

Rhinebeck’s charming qualities have attracted many celebrities, and NYC transports over the years, with its hometown feel and country bliss. Downtown has several delicious dining spots (like Bread Alone and Cinnamon Indian Cusine) scattered among boutiques and Samuel’s Sweets Shop, a homemade sweet shop co-owned by celebrities Paul Rudd, Hilarie Burton, and Jeffrey Dean Morgan (their lattes are amazing!) Antique lovers can browse the barn behind the Beekman Arms or travel a little further north to Red Hook to stop at several antique shops on Route 9.

2 hrs from NYC
Car or Amtrak train

Where to Stay in Rhinebeck, NY

Mirbeau Inn & Spa: This luxurious inn offers a spa, fitness studio for yoga, steam rooms and even hot tubs.
The Beekman Arms Inn is the oldest inn in America, built in 1799! It’s set right in the downtown area within walking distance of dining, art galleries, and shops. The rooms are spacious with colonial decor and old-fashioned charm, with a decanter of sherry in each room.

Out-of-State Winter Getaways from NYC

21. The Poconos, Pennsylvania

The Poconos is a stunning mountain range spaning 2,400 acres in northeast Pennsylvania. It’s a destination for skiers, snowboarders, and snow tubers, with popular locations at Camelback Mountain and Blue Mountain Resort. Action seekers can try out winter paintball at Skirmish Paintball; no experience is necessary–just dress warm! There are four indoor water parks and go-cart tracks at S&S Speedway for indoor fun.

1 hr 45 minutes from NYC
Car, bus

Where to Stay in the Poconos, NY

The Lodge at Woodloch is a premier spa and resort with lavish amenities, including gourmet meals, grand fireplaces, cooking and baking demos, and guided outdoor adventures. The spa has a personal concierge service, a new salt sauna, a Chakra Lounge, a snow room, and a cold water bucket shower!

22. Washington, Connecticut

Washington, CT has a gorgeous natural landscape with rolling hills, vineyards, farmland, and rich culture of historic buildings. In fact, Washington has three Historic Districts to explore–Washington Green, New Preston Hill, and Calhoun Street-Ives– with museums like the Gunn Historical Museum and the Institute for American Indian Studies. This adorable town was also the creative muse for the hometown of the Gilmore Girls, where fans can visit the favorite spots that inspired Stars Hallow.

2hr from NYC
Car, bus

Where to Stay in Washington, CT

Mayflower Inn & Spa is a true New England country retreat and a state-of-the-art wellness destination, perfect for a romantic getaway. Each spacious suite has exquisite Victorian-style decor. Favorite amenities include private bonfires, private dining, and a holistic restorative spa.

23. Berkshires, Massachusetts

Sports enthusiasts gather in the Berkshires every winter, where they have access to 12 of Massachusett’s ski and snowboarding areas. If you plan your trip in February, you can attend the Bay State Winter Games, where hundreds of athletes gather from over 200 communities to compete and celebrate winter activities. Take a break from the slopes and visit the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art, with its newest It’s Only Human installation, or stop by the 10×10 Upstreet Arts Festival.

As for towns, Stockbridge is a beautiful town in the Berkshires with various indoor attractions to visit on a cool winery day. The Schantz Galleries Contemporary Glass is an art gallery displaying work from over 40 artists of classic contemporary masterpieces. Learn more about Stockbridge’s history by visiting the Stockbridge Library, Museum & Archives or tour the Norman Rockwell Museum, where guests can see artwork from one of America’s most iconic artists.

2.5 hours from NYC

Where to Stay in Berkshires, MA

The Red Lion Inn is a historic landmark, close to many fun winter activities in the neighboring Berkshires. They have four lodging accommodations to choose from, offer farm-to-table cuisine, and packages featuring museum passes and wellness services. Staying here puts you close to Canterbury Farm ski slopes!

24. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington is a thriving community beckoning winter travelers to come enjoy. Catch a live performance at the Flynn Center for the Performing Arts or visit one of several craft breweries in the area, like Mad River Distillers (award-winning spirits) and Foam Brewers (live music and cheese plates!). Church Street Marketplace is a cobblestone wonder with lots of shopping and places to grab a bite, with stunning holiday lights to stroll through. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a walk on the frozen Lake Champlain and visit the ECHO Science and Nature Museum right on the waterfront.

5hr 35 minutes from NYC
Car, bus, train, plane

Where to Stay in Burlington, VT

Lang House on Main Street is a top-rated bed and breakfast with excellent hospitality and proximity to popular attractions in Burlington. The Queen Anne Victorian rooms are designed with a mix of modern and antique decor with all the comfy amenities. Free full breakfast is served every morning, and it’s right down the street from Church Street Marketplace.

25. Boston, Massachusetts

Boston is a fantastic city to visit in the winter– the activities never stop! Go snowshoeing at Gore Place or sled and ice skate in Boston Common when the snow falls. If you’re visiting during the holidays, see the city light up with the Museum of Fine Art’s Festival of Light or the First Night celebration on New Year. You can still walk the Freedom Trail in the winter to see some of the city’s most historic sites. For those looking to stay warm, shop at Quincy Market, visit the Boston Public Library or pop into the New England Aquarium or Museum of Science to explore.

Distance: 4 hours from NYC
Car, bus, train, plane

26. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

philadelphia love sign with a girl under it

The City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia, is Pennsylvania’s largest city situated just 90 miles south of NYC. Yet, many of us New Yorkers are often unaware of many things this hidden gem city offers. Philadelphia is bustling with important American history, traditional and modern art, museums, hundreds of hip restaurants, and much more. All while being rich and diverse in culture!

Even better? Philadelphia is just a 90-minute train ride from NYC! It’s so easy to get here that you could even make it an easy day trip from NYC to Philly!

27. Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunkport is one of the country’s top 50 Most Charming Small Towns and an iconic romantic getaway spot. Dine out in luxury at the March Bistro, offering a five-course meal on Thursday evenings. Take a craft beer tour, hitting the Batson River Brewing & Distilling, or visit the Old Vines Wine Bar, a rustic-chic bistro is small plates with local wines. You can also explore the town by horse-drawn carriage ride at Rockin’ Horse Stables

5hr 15 minutes from NYC
Car, bus, train, plane

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport, ME

AWOL Kennebunkport is a gorgeous hotel with a patio and gardens. The grounds, as well as the interior decor are stunning. You can also enjoy a daily continental breakfast.

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