11 Perfect Destinations for a Long Weekend in New York

Now and then, we all need a break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Some time to unplug, dip your toes in the lake and stare off longingly at nearby mountains. Sound pretty good? Then, a trip to New York State is in order. Between the famous Adirondack Mountains and the stunning Finger Lakes Region, travelers will have no trouble finding a long weekend getaway location here. From Lake Placid to Lake George, get ready to plan your next mini vacation today.

Lake Placid

Between the Olympic history and the ample opportunities for outdoor adventure, it is easy to spend a long weekend in Lake Placid. The small but welcoming New York village is situated in the Adirondack Mountain region along the shores of a lake by the same name. Upon arrival, travelers will be met with a hearty selection of accommodations for the weekend, including popular chain hotels such as the Crowne Plaza and the Hampton Inn & Suites. However, those looking for something a bit cozier may prefer The Boha Hotel, which is within walking distance of major town highlights, including Main St., Mirror Lake, and Lake Placid.

After settling into the room, it is time to start exploring. Sports fans will want to visit the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, the Olympic Jumping Complex, and the Olympic Center. Meanwhile, outdoor enthusiasts will find more fun on Mirror Lake. In the summer, Mirror Lake is a perfect spot to enjoy swimming, paddling, and hiking around the water's edge.

In the winter, the lake serves as a hot spot for skating, ice fishing, and enjoying the Lake Placid Toboggan Chute. For true nature lovers, you simply can not beat the views at High Falls Gorge. Here, visitors can hike around the gorge on level, accessible paths while admiring the popular High Falls waterfall.

Ithaca

Travelers will want to pack their cameras for this trip because natural beauty abounds in Ithaca, New York. The town is planted firmly in the Finger Lakes Region near the shores of Cayuga Lake and is home to more than 150 different waterfalls and gorges. In town, visitors will find several unique accommodation options, including popular chains, boutique hotels, and quaint vacation rentals with waterfront views. Those who want to be close to Cayuga Lake will love the charming and historic rooms at the Ithaca Boat House. For budget-conscious travelers, something like the Super 8 or the Quality Inn Ithaca will be more appealing.

Regardless of where you rest your head at night, visitors will find plenty of fun things to see and do during their stay. For starters, spend some time wandering through Buttermilk Falls State Park, where travelers may enjoy hiking, waterfalls, gorges, swimming, and camping. Alternatively, the Robert H. Treman State Park offers the same attractions and amenities. Nature lovers looking for low-impact activities can take a stroll through the Cornell Botanic Garden, where garden visitors can admire more than 16,000 plants, trees, and shrubs.

Saugerties

Located partially within New York's beautiful Catskill Park, Saugerties serves as an ideal destination for window shoppers and outdoor explorers alike. The town is home to several interesting local businesses, including Pop Vintage Antiques, Inquiring Mind Bookstore & Cafe, and The Perfect Blend-a Yarn and Tea Shop. With so much variety, visitors could easily spend an entire afternoon popping in and out of these charming stores, shopping to their heart's content.

Those who prefer to do their wandering outside will be met with several opportunities, including spending time at the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve. The 161-acre preserve is a wonderful spot to admire local flora and fauna. At any given time, visitors are likely to see turkeys, deer, red foxes, eagles, toads, and various insects within the preserve. Other worthwhile outdoor activities include visiting the Saugerties Lighthouse on the Hudson River and admiring the waterfalls and scenic views at the Falling Waters Preserve. As for places to stay during a weekend trip in Saugerties, it is hard to top the Saugerties Lighthouse Bed and Breakfast.

Skaneateles

Wrapped around the tip of Skaneateles Lake, the small town of Skaneateles, New York, is a popular travel destination in the Finger Lakes Region. Like many towns in this area, Skaneateles draws travelers in with its pristine blue waters and water-based recreational activities. The town also boasts a vibrant downtown core with plenty to see and do. Travelers hoping to spend a weekend in town will find a wide range of accommodations, including a handful of farmhouse-chic rentals, including The Bond 1835—a charming, restored barn house originally built in 1835.

After settling in, head to the Skaneateles Historical Society Museum, where visitors can dive into the town's past, participate in historic walking tours, and admire various art exhibits. Those who enjoy a peaceful nature stroll can check out the Charlie Major Nature Trail. Stretching roughly one mile, the trail follows the long-abandoned Skaneateles Short Line Railroad and provides beautiful views and a small picnic area. Anyone hoping to enjoy the vibrant blue waters of Skaneateles Lake can visit Thayer Park, a perfect place to rest and relax.

Hudson

Tucked along the shores of the famous Hudson River, travelers will find the charming town of Hudson, New York. Well-known for its architecture and historic sites, Hudson serves as an ideal weekend destination for history buffs. Travelers who are particularly interested in historic buildings with beautiful architecture will want to book accommodations at the Hudson Whaler Hotel. Originally built in 1906, the hotel is designed to look like the interior of a ship and has many nautical themes throughout its 16 suites.

After checking in, it is time to head out on the Hudson River and visit the popular Hudson Athens Lighthouse. Here, visitors can admire the 150-year-old lighthouse, learn about its storied history, and admire the surrounding views. Places, including the Olana State Historic Site and the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, are also worth exploring while in town.

Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is a quaint New York village located along the Hudson River. The town is best known for its appearance in the 1820 Washington Irving story titled The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Today, fans of the famous story will want to check out a few of Sleepy Hollow’s iconic landmarks, including the headless horseman statue, the headless horseman bridge, and Washington Irvine’s Sunnyside, a beautiful estate designed by the author.

Other noteworthy landmarks in town include the Philipsburg Manor and the picturesque Tarrytown Lighthouse. With so much to see in town, travelers will need cozy accommodations to return to each evening. For something simple yet sophisticated, a stay at the Sleepy Hollow Hotel will not disappoint.

Tarrytown

Tarrytown is a historically rich New York village located less than one mile from Sleepy Hollow. Travelers spending a weekend getaway in either town will have easy access to amenities and attractions from both locations. Those who enjoy history and architecture will be pleased to find several historic landmarks in Tarrytown, including the Lyndhurst Mansion and the Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. If that is not enough, savor another taste of history in Patriot's Park, where greenery, a walking path, and several important monuments live.

Music enthusiasts will have fun at the Tarrytown Music Hall, where everything from symphonies to dog shows and plays can be enjoyed. Finally, don't forget to get out and enjoy sunny Tarrytown weather at the Scenic Hudson Riverwalk Park. Travelers will find a healthy selection of hotels and other accommodations in town, but it is tough to beat the beauty and appeal of the Tarrytown House Estate.

Watkins Glen

Tucked around the tip of Seneca Lake, travelers will discover the small town of Watkins Glen, New York. The town's biggest claim to fame comes from the Watkins Glen International Raceway, which hosts a series of NASCAR and various other races throughout the year. However, travelers who aren't interested in fast cars will still find plenty of fun things to see and do in town.

Watkins Glen State Park offers hours of fun for nature lovers, waterfall chasers, and hiking enthusiasts alike. This Finger Lakes Region park is home to towering cliffs, 19 waterfalls, an Olympic-size pool, winding trails, and campsites. While camping in the park is always fun, those who prefer more comfortable accommodations will want to check into the Colonial Inn & Creamery. The Inn is just a short walk from the state park. Sipping wine at Lakewood Vineyards and meeting farm animals on a tour of the local Farm Sanctuary are also available during a Watkins Glen visit.

Narrowsburg

Narrowsburg is a small hamlet in New York, home to just under 400 residents. Despite its smaller size, Narrowsburg is filled with entertaining activities and beautiful sites for visitors to enjoy. Those who live to explore the outdoors will want to head to the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River. Here, travelers can participate in a range of activities, including hiking, rafting, canoeing, kayaking, eagle-watching, and fishing.

For accommodations, serious outdoor enthusiasts may want to spend a few nights camping at Skinners Falls Campground or Narrowsburg Campground; both locations offer river access. For roofed accommodations, check out the Blue Fox Motel instead. Those interested in learning more about the area will want to visit the Fort Delaware Museum, while art lovers will want to explore the Delaware Valley Arts Alliance.

Corning

Between the various galleries, museums, and landmarks, it is easy to shatter your boredom in Corning, New York. The small town is best known for its incredible contributions to the glass industry and is often referred to as "America's Crystal City." During a visit, checking out the Corning Museum of Glass is a must. Here, travelers can learn about glass making throughout the centuries and admire a huge collection of glass art and artifacts.

The Vitrix Hot Glass Studio, the Little Joe Tower, the Heritage Village of the Southern Finger Lakes, and the Rockwell Museum are also worth exploring while in Corning. As for places to stay, visitors will find comfort and accessible amenities at the Radisson Hotel Corning.

Lake George

Anyone looking to have a little fun amidst the Adirondack Mountains will enjoy a weekend trip to Lake George, New York. Upon arrival, travelers will find a wide array of accommodations, including name-brand hotels and charming home rentals. Even with so much variety, it is hard to top a stay at The Lodges at Cresthaven. Each lodge has a cozy cabin feel while still offering luxury amenities, mountain views, and easy access to the waters of Lake George.

Once you find the right place to stay, travelers can start exploring popular local attractions, including the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum, the Lake George Expedition Park, and the Fort William Henry Museum. Those interested in swimming will want to head to Million Dollar Beach or Shepard Park Beach.

Whether you are on the hunt for a relaxing weekend filled with mountain views and lakeside relaxation or a fun-filled weekend packed with non-stop activities, these small New York towns have you covered. From nature enthusiasts to history buffs, finding interesting activities to fill your weekend is as easy as pie. So don't hesitate any longer—it’s time to check in for a long weekend of thrills in The Empire State.