Escape to Upstate New York: Memorable Day and Weekend Getaways

EDITOR’S NOTE: THIS blog post was ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED ON MARCH 31, 2024 AND LAST updated FOR ACCURACY AND NEW INFORMATION on December 21, 2024.

View of Hunter, NY

Until recently, I didn’t know Upstate New York (at all). But in the last couple of years, I started taking day trips that turned into longer trips. As I ventured further and further north, I discovered that Upstate is my happy place. There’s so much up in northern New York to uncover (that I have yet to experience), but I know for sure that there are three places I either keep going back to or have found unforgettable that I’m excited to share with you.

I dedicate this post to all my NYC readers who constantly say they wish they “went Upstate more.” That was me. Sometimes, all it takes is a few good recommendations to get you up there!

 

A DAY TRIP to cold spring, ny

 

Located on the banks of the Hudson River, just 50 miles north of New York City, Cold Spring is a village of only about 2,000 residents. Main Street is where you’ll find a collection of shops, from coffee shops and restaurants to antique shops and locally owned retail stores. My perfect day is starting at Dockside Park to play with my dog after the ride from the city, followed by lunch at Cold Spring Depot, and then walking off lunch browsing through the different shops - a stop for coffee before the ride home rounds out my ideal day.

A WEEKEND OR MORE IN HUNTER, NY

 

Hunter is a mountain town nestled in the highest peaks of the Great Northern Catskills. If you’re truly looking to escape city life for a while, Hunter is the place to go. Located about a 2.5-hour car drive north of Manhattan, Hunter offers some of the best attractions you’ll find in Upstate New York. My favorite way to experience Hunter is over a long weekend, so you can check out the towns of Hunter and Tannersville, enjoy nature, and sneak in some adventure.

WHERE TO STAY IN HUNTER, NY

There are many charming bed and breakfasts, but my favorite stay was at an Airbnb property called “Luxurious Seclusion in this Exclusive Mountain Home.” It was the perfect place to share with two of our best friends and included special features such as an outdoor pizza oven, hot tub, fire pit, and game room.

Another stunning place I’ve stayed in Hunter that offers a peaceful escape is this property on Airbnb, “Contemporary Cabin in the Catskill Mountains.” You can spend days cozied up by the fireplace and admiring the rays of sunshine in the morning and twinkling stars at night. My favorite part of all was it was dog-friendly, so we could enjoy it with our dog, who also gave it five stars.

where to eat IN HUNTER, NY

Prospect Restaurant and Bar at Scribner’s Catskill Lodge

Why you can’t miss it? Mountain views and local brews.

Deer Mountain Inn

Why you can’t miss it? Ambiance and local food. On my wish list of places to stay.

Tabla

Why you can’t miss it? Spectacular Spanish tapas and cocktails.

Things To Do IN HUNTER, NY

KAATERSKILL FALLS

Why you can’t miss it? Kaaterskill Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in New York at 260 feet. You can view them from above from the upper platform or hike 300 feet to the base to get an up-close feel.

Scenic Skyride

Why you can’t miss it? Ride up to the 3,200-foot summit of Hunter Mountain. On a clear day, you can see the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of Vermont beyond New York's Catskill Mountain peaks.

 

A WEEKEND OR MORE IN NIAGARA FALLS, NY

 

Throughout my life, I visited Niagara Falls, both from the Canada and New York sides. Recently, I took a trip up to the New York side with my dad, who was visiting from Ecuador, and we discovered some true gems. There was also a rainbow, so it was obligatory magic. I recommend just picking a hotel in nearby Buffalo, NY, for better prices and fewer crowds. You’re not going to spend that much time in your hotel (or at least you shouldn’t). All you need is one full day to enjoy the falls, which will leave you with plenty of time to enjoy meals and wine tasting.

THINGS TO DO IN NIAGARA FALLS, NY

Maid of the Mist

Why you can’t miss it? You get so close to both the Canadian and U.S. Falls that it takes your breath away. Afterward, you can walk up close to the Falls.

Where to eat NEAR NIAGARA FALLS, NY

Wonder Coffeehouse IN BUFFALO, NEW YORK

Why you can’t miss it? Everything comes in a waffle. Do I need to say more?

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North America, New York, Travel Guide, FeaturedKaren GomezCold Spring, NY, Hunter, Airbnb, Prospect, Deer Mountain Inn, Tabla, New York Zip Line Adventures, Scenic Skyride, Niagara Falls, Maid of the Mist, Wonder Coffeehouse, New York, USAComment