Fun weekend getaways from New York

Even the most die-hard New Yorker longs for a change now and again. If you’re in the mood for a weekend escape, then check out these ideas for fun weekend getaways from New York to the Hamptons, Atlantic City, Springfield, Saratoga Springs and Albany.

A lovely view of the Springfield skyline perfect as one of the places to go to for a fun weekend getaway from New York

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Date nights are the backbone of a happy marriage. They help keep life fun and exciting, and create the novelty that is key to loving life with your partner.

But there comes a time when even date night isn’t adventure enough, and that’s when a fun weekend getaway can be just the thing.

New Yorkers can probably spend a lifetime exploring the city and its boroughs without ever visiting the same spot twice.

However, sometimes you want to get away from it all and explore someone else’s city.

One of the many benefits of calling New York home is that you’re only a few hours away from amazing cities upstate as well as in surrounding states.

Hop in the car or grab a train ride and you’re in a brand new world in a super short time.

You might also like: Cheap weekend getaways for couples in the USA.

Hamptons

Only a two-hour drive from the city, the Hamptons may be best-known as a playground for the wealthy, but there’s a lot to do for anyone without having to live like the Rockefellers.

Popular during the summer months, the Hamptons is an attractive year-round destination.

While the beaches are full of sun bathers and swimmers during the warm months, there’s something special about taking a walk along those same beaches during autumn, with a cool breeze blowing in off the water and nearby grasses wearing brown.

It’s almost like being in a scene from a romantic movie – and when you’re after a weekend getaway with your loved one, well that’s exactly what kind of ambiance you’re after, right?

However, The Hamptons are more than beaches and water fun.

Take in the sights and sounds during your visit. You can combine a walk on the beach with a visit to a lighthouse at Montauk Point State Park.

Climbing the lighthouse and taking in the view of the area is an impressive sight.

Shopping enthusiasts enjoy a trip to the Tanger Outlets in Riverhead.

Home to stores such Adidas and Nike, the outlet offers good deals at decent prices.

Plus, it’s a fun place to do people watching as you enjoy a coffee at Starbucks.

Accommodation often makes a weekend getaway that little bit extra special.

If you’re after quality, beautiful accommodation, try The Baker House.

There’s a spa and sauna centre, and the overall atmosphere has to be experienced to be believed.

You can also hire bikes on which to do some exploring!

Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City is a fun weekend getaway, even if gambling’s not your thing.

Check out the shops and restaurants on the famous Boardwalk which also leads you to the beach.

Once on the beach, consider going windsurfing or parasailing, or taking a more relaxing ocean cruise option.

Skip the queues and grab your Atlantic City cruise ticket here – lowest price guaranteed!

Work off your lunch by climbing the 228 steps of Absecon Lighthouse – the country’s 3rd highest lighthouse.

Not only does the top provide a great view, it’s the perfect place for a romantic kiss.

Of course, you’ll want accommodation that’s right in the middle of the action.

Casinos are a lot of fun if you’re all good with moderation (the few times we’ve been we go with a set amount in cash each and that’s it!).

They also often have great offers for hotel rooms, so you may want to consider staying at one, such as the Resorts Casino Hotel.

The hotel has direct beach access from its prime location on the aforementioned Boardwalk, so you can take a sunset stroll on the beach before heading in for some fun.

However if you prefer a regular hotel, consider Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel.

Regardless of your choice, it’s difficult to go wrong with the hotel selection in AC.

Springfield, MA

Less than three hours north of New York, Springfield, Massachusetts offers the perfect weekend getaway.

Home to the invention of basketball, visit the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, which honors the best players and coaches in the sport’s history, as well as tracing basketball’s history.

A truly fun place to visit – no matter how old you may be – is the Amazing World of Dr Seuss Museum and sculpture garden.

You’ll have a blast as you learn about Dr. Seuss and get to visit life-sized versions of his characters, including the Grinch and Cat in the Hat.

If you are a Norman Rockwell fan, you’ll want to take the 50-minute drive to Stockbridge, home of the Norman Rockwell Museum, where you can view his work and learn more about the artist.

Springfield is full of history, dating back to colonial days.

The Springfield Armory offers a look at more than two centuries of forging weapons for the military.

Art enthusiasts will enjoy taking the beauty of the exhibits at Smith College Museum of Art.

Saratoga Springs

Column walkway in Yado Rose Garden in Saratago Spings

Situated three hours north of the city, Saratoga Springs may be known for its horse racing history, but its natural beauty attracts fans of the outdoors as well.

It’s home to the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame which celebrates the sport of thoroughbred horse racing.

The museum features paintings and exhibits highlighting the sport.

The Saratoga Springs area is home to kayaking, lake cruises and hot air balloon tours.

If you’re in the mood for a nature walk, head to the Bog Meadow Brook Nature Trail. The two-mile-long trail provides a unique path along a former rail line and is a popular cross-country skiing spot during winter.

A walk through the Coldbrook Preserve offers amazing bird watching opportunities.

With more than 60 acres to explore, you’re sure to find something impressive.

If you spot turtles in the road during your drive to the reserve, stop and help them off the road in the direction they’re headed. They’ll thank you for it!

Yaddo Rose gardens is also a beautiful place to visit.

Union Gables Inn offers a comfortable bed and breakfast inn experience during your visit to Saratoga Springs.

Located in a 1901 mansion, it offers a private bath in your room or suite. Most rooms have a king bed. The bed and breakfast is less than a 10-minute walk to the city’s downtown attractions and restaurants as well as shopping.

Albany

As New York’s state capital, Albany is a mix of history, culture and contemporary attractions.

From possibly the most unique state capitol building in the country, to an even more unique arts center, even the most causal architecture fan will love strolling around Albany, taking in its scenery.

The capitol building had multiple architects, which explains its mix of Romanesque and classical Renaissance styles. A tour of the capitol and the Empire State Plaza are a must when visiting Albany to get a look into the state’s history and art collection.

The plaza is also home to an underground shopping mall.

Before you head to Albany, check The Center for Performing Arts’ (which is also known as The Egg – no prizes for why) performance schedule. The Egg hosts a variety of events and shows throughout the year.

Sports enthusiasts will enjoy checking out Rockgym. Home to the nation’s only indoor rock climbing cave system, Rockgym also includes a 60-foot long zipline.

If you prefer an outdoor zipline, Mountain Ridge Adventure, Schenectady (about a 30-minute drive from Albany), offers obstacle courses featuring chairs, wood and ropes, as climbers negotiate them before speeding to ground level on ziplines.

Albany is home to several outstanding hotels and bed and breakfast inns, so it’s easy to choose a place to rest your head in-between outings.

Bed and breakfast inns seem to automatically make a weekend getaway a little more romantic. If you think like I do, consider reserving a room at the Morgan State House Inn.

Built in 1884, the mansion offers a cozy stay not far from the city’s main attractions. With less than 20 guest rooms and studios, you’re in for a special experience.