Top 14 Weekend Getaways in New York

While New York was originally inhabited by Native Americans, the first European settlers arrived in 1624 close to present-day New York City.

While New York City expanded rapidly over the years because of its commercial activity and desirable trade, other areas throughout the state were also settled and began to grow as well.

The New York City area and the entire state have played a vital role in the cultural and political development of the country over the years.

Whether you live in New York or you are thinking about traveling to the area, there are some excellent places to visit throughout the state that may be ideal for getting away from it all for a few days.

New York is a state that is well-known for its fantastic food, incredible natural areas, historical and cultural attractions, shopping, and more.

If you are planning to travel to or through the area for a getaway, there are a few top New York destinations that you may want to explore.

Looking to tour New York soon? Enter your ZIP code above first and compare at least three to four auto insurance policies before hitting the road!

Top 14 Weekend Getaways in New York

#1 — New York City

If you are looking for an action-packed getaway experience, New York City should be at the top of your list of destination options. New York City is a ginormous metropolis with larger-than-life attractions like:

• The Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island
• Central Park
• Broadway theaters
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Fifth Avenue shopping and so much more

With so much to see and do, this city truly has something for everyone to enjoy. In fact, with how much there is to see and do in New York City, you may find that you need to visit the area repeatedly to fully take in all that the city offers.

#2 — Ithaca and the Finger Lakes

The Finger Lakes is comprised of 11 finger-shaped lakes that stretch from the Canadian border to the southern end of the state. Ithaca is the perfect home base to use when exploring the Finger Lakes.

From this location, you will be in the ideal place to explore Taughannock Falls State Park and to tour wineries, and you can also visit the Corning Museum of Glass.

Ithaca and the Finger Lakes is a great location to visit when you are planning a couple’s getaway or when you want a family or friends’ trip to New York.

#3 – Adirondacks

The Adirondacks is a vast natural area that spans across a large area of the state. It is comprised of snow-capped mountains, icy lakes, dense forests, and more.

The Adirondacks is the perfect place to visit when you want to get away from it all and get back in touch with nature.

If you are planning a trip to hike, sightsee, or enjoy other activities in the Adirondacks, ensure that you spend time exploring the 46 highest peaks in the area, the Olympic Complex, and the Wild Center.

#4 — Buffalo and Niagara Falls

The Buffalo and Niagara Falls area in the northern region of the state is well-known as a romantic destination because of its mighty falls and gorgeous natural areas. However, this is also the perfect place to visit on a family or friends getaway.

The area also has a robust arts community and a thriving craft beer scene.

When you are in the area, be sure to explore the Canalside area to partake in community events. You can also tour the Darwin D. Martin House and take a thrilling jet boat ride right up to the base of the falls.

#5 — Saratoga Springs

Situated close to Lake George and the Adirondacks, Saratoga Springs has been a popular retreat area for decades. Many are drawn to Saratoga Springs to enjoy relaxing in the soothing mineral waters, but the area offers much more to explore.

For example, everything from horse racing and exploring garden-like parks to fine dining, and Broadway-style shows can be enjoyed while you are visiting Saratoga Springs.

#6 — New Paltz

Located close to Poughkeepsie, New Paltz is a charming small town that offers plenty for you to see and do on a relaxing getaway. In this little village, you can stay in the Historic Hotel of America in the heart of the city.

You can also get away from the hustle of village life by exploring the nearby Minnewaska State Park or Mohawk Preserve. Everything from hiking and boating to wildlife viewing and more is a possibility in these scenic areas.

#7 – Hudson

Despite Hudson’s small city, this town is always bustling with activities and events that everyone will love.

In fact, it boasts dozens of delicious restaurants, an incredible amount of historical architecture, and numerous antique shops.

Hudson is also home to a beautiful waterfront area as well as several performing arts venues that host shows throughout the year for your enjoyment.

It may be wise to read the events calendar before traveling to Hudson so that you can thoroughly plan your experience.

#8 — North Fork

North Fork is the perfect destination to explore when you want to enjoy a refined yet relaxing getaway with someone special or with a group of your best friends. In and around the North Fork area, you can find numerous wineries that overlook impressive natural vistas.

In addition to spending time at the wineries, you can also explore several local parks, hike on nature trails, and lounge at some of the beautiful beaches in the area.

#9 – Syracuse

Syracuse may be well-known for its live sporting events, but it offers much more for you to enjoy as well.

For example, there are several renowned wineries in the local area as well as top-notch museums that you can enjoy when you want to walk on the cultural side.

Historical landmarks, dozens of fascinating shops, live performances, and natural park areas add to the possibilities for fun and relaxation when you spend a few days in Syracuse.

#10 — Beacon

Beacon may be a rather small town, but it is a New York mecca for relaxation and sightseeing. The charming Main Street area is home to numerous shops and restaurants that you can explore at your leisure.

There are also numerous art galleries, museums, and studios that show off the creative spirit of Beacon. You can also stop by several distilleries and wineries to sample delicious beverages crafted locally while you are visiting the Beacon area.

#11 — Ogdensburg and Watertown

The Ogdensburg and Watertown area is an idyllic place to visit when you want to learn more about history while enjoying down time relaxing with nature.

The Frederic Remington Art Museum features artifacts and pieces from the Old West as well as Native American tribes; Lighthouse Point and Fort de la Presentation are historic landmarks that give you a wonderful glimpse back in time.

In addition, these areas are home to numerous delicious restaurants and quaint shops that may take hours or days to explore at your leisure.

#12 — Port Jefferson

If you are looking for a peaceful coastal town to visit for a relaxing getaway, Port Jefferson is a wonderful option to consider.

This town has a large marina and a vibrant coastal area where you can enjoy delicious food and drinks as well as great views with family or friends.

McAlister Park is located just north of Port Jefferson, and it features rolling sand dunes and tranquil views. There is even a popular craft brewery that regularly releases new brews for you to sample.

#13 – Woodstock

Woodstock is a beautiful place to visit when you want to get back in touch with nature by exploring the Adirondacks.

This small town provides you with easy access to the hiking, cycling, and boating activities in the mountain region, but it also offers a full range of creature comforts for you to enjoy.

In Woodstock, you can enjoy touring museums, dining at restaurants, and even listening to live music. Touring the Center for Photography at Woodstock is another popular way to spend a few hours. Woodstock is well-known for its active arts community.

#14 — Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is best known for its legend involving a headless horseman, and this famed individual now rests in the historic Sleepy Hollow Cemetery.

However, Sleepy Hollow also offers much more for visitors to enjoy, including tours of the historic Rockefeller Estate and Philipsburg Manor.

When you are not touring historic points of interest in Sleepy Hollow, you can also sample local fare at charming restaurants and enjoy scenic views of surrounding countryside.

Preparation for Your Weekend Getaway

Traveling through New York by car is a great way to get to know more about the area and to take in natural views along the way.

If you are thinking about embarking on a road trip through the state, it is important to understand what the auto insurance requirements are for drivers in this state. To drive legally in this state, you must have coverage that includes:

• At least $25,000 for bodily injury per person or $50,000 per accident
• At least $10,000 for property damage

Remember that New York is a no-fault car insurance state, which means that you may have to pay for your own vehicle repairs and other accident-related expenses regardless of who caused the accident.

You may also want to purchase collision or comprehensive insurance. Remember that the state’s minimum liability requirements described above only pay for other people’s expenses.

– How to Get the Right Coverage

Car insurance in New York can be expensive, and you understandably want to set up an affordable policy as well as coverage that is most protective in the event of an accident or damaging mishap. However, you should avoid making a decision based solely on price.

Instead, focus on finding at least three to four providers with a great reputation and financial stability to request quotes from. Ideally, this process will be repeated every six months so that you always have a great rate on the coverage you need.

Some drivers may have a poor driving record, such as a DUI conviction on their driving history.

New York is not an SR-22 state, but this does not mean such issues on your record may not affect your rate.

Regardless of how stellar or blotched your driving record is, it is important to shop around to get the best coverage possible.

– Preparing for Your Trip

Before you begin a road trip through New York, it is important to have your car inspected by a trusted mechanic. The mechanic can perform any recommended service.

This process may help you to avoid a breakdown and to stay safer on the road; it may also potentially improve fuel economy to help you save money on your trip.

However, even when the best steps are taken to prevent accidents and breakdowns, such events may still occur.

Pack an emergency kit in your car so that you are prepared for any situation that may arise. This kit may include non-perishable food items, a first aid kit, a blanket, and other related items.

Any items that you think you may need to survive if you are forced to live out of your car for a few days should be stocked inside your vehicle.

– Pedestrian and Driver Safety

Many people love to get out in New York’s rural and small town areas, and you may spot numerous pedestrians and cyclists along the side of the road or crossing the road. It is important that you take extra steps to avoid colliding with these individuals.

• Understand pedestrian and cyclist rules and laws
• Always yield to pedestrians and cyclists even if they are breaking the law in an effort to avoid an accident
• Be vigilant of your surroundings
• Try to anticipate how pedestrians and cyclists nearby may act or react
• Obey posted speed limit signs, and drive even slower in high-traffic areas

– Auto Insurance for a Rental Car

While some people will drive their own vehicle through New York, others may plan to rent a car for a fun-filled road trip. When you rent a car, you must follow the state’s rules regarding a minimum amount of car insurance.

Your rental agency may provide you with a coverage option when you sign the paperwork, but you may not always need this coverage.

In some cases, your existing car insurance policy may provide adequate protection for your experiences in a rental car; you may also have rental car insurance through your credit card company.

In order to benefit from this type of coverage, you typically need to use your credit card to pay for the car rental. With this in mind, you should carefully research credit card benefits before you visit the rental car company so that you can plan ahead and to avoid wasting money.

Getting around New York for an exciting or relaxing trip is a fun idea to consider. However, you should research each destination carefully so that you choose a destination that is well-suited for the type of trip you want to enjoy. You also need to prepare your car and review your insurance coverage before you depart on your trip.

However, you should research each destination carefully so that you choose a destination that is well-suited for the type of trip you want to enjoy. You also need to prepare your car and review your insurance coverage before you depart on your trip.

Wnat to ensure your car is fully covered before hitting the road? Enter your ZIP code below and start comparison shopping today for better auto insurance!