Escape to Upstate New York: Memorable Day and Weekend Getaways
Up until pretty recently, I didn’t really know Upstate New York (like at all). But 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 actually my happy place. There’s so much up in northern New York to uncover (that I have yet to experience), but what I know for sure is 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. All it takes sometimes are 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 off at Dockside Park to play with my dog after the ride in from the city, followed by lunch at Cold Spring Depot (when it’s warm enough to sit outside), and then walk off lunch browsing through the different shops. A stop for coffee before the ride home rounds out my ideal day.
PLACES TO EAT IN COLD SPRING, NY
PLACES TO SHOP IN COLD SPRING, NY
THINGS TO DO IN COLD SPRING, NY
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 plenty of charming bed and breakfasts to choose from, 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 some special features such as an outdoor pizza oven, hot tub, fire pit and game room.
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
New York Zip Line Adventures (TEMPORARILY closed)
Why you can’t miss it? One of the longest and highest zip line tours in North America. Adventure seeker (Skyrider Tour) and family-friendly (Mid-Mountain Tour) options. Staff is incredible from beginning to end.
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 really 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. Afterwards 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?
These three places in Upstate New York are where I’ve found peace, beauty, and a connection to something I didn’t know I was missing. There’s still so much up there I haven’t seen, but these spots have become my go-to’s. I’m excited to share them with you, and I hope they spark your own adventures into the magic that is Upstate New York.
For more on Upstate New York check out my other blog posts:
Top 5 Best Day Trips to Upstate New York from New York City
One Perfect Day in Hudson: A Dog-Friendly Haven in Upstate New York