Many relaxing, budget-friendly weekend getaways are convenient to New York City. As soon as October arrives, thousands of travelers hit the road once the picturesque fall foliage sets in. In the winter, Vermont and Connecticut draw skiers and snowboarders for the perfect cabin or resort vacation. Come spring and summer, the area's coastal destinations grow busy with visitors who come to enjoy the tranquil surroundings, including the cross-country trails, lakes and rivers. Whether you desire a romantic weekend for two, an outdoors excursion or a cozy holiday retreat with friends, the area offers something for every traveler.
Nestled among the lush, green forests of the Mohawk Valley, Cooperstown is close to two popular skiing destinations, the Adirondacks and the Catskills. The small resort town of Cooperstown is home to the Baseball Hall of Fame in addition to local breweries and wineries, antique shops, foot trails, camping sites and idyllic bed and breakfasts and inns.
Fire Island is an ideal summer getaway, with its laid-back atmosphere, cozy summer rentals and sandy beaches. Playfully known as New York's Key West, it is only two hours outside of the Big Apple. With more than 100 miles of coastline and countless ways to enjoy the surf and sun, it is no wonder why Fire Island is a popular weekend getaway.
For a cheap weekend vacation, you can hop on a train out of New York and head to Philadelphia, arriving in just a couple of hours. Rich in art and architecture as well as history, Philly offers a lot of things to do. You could see the Phillies play at Citizens Bank Park, tour the Liberty Bell and National Constitution Center, go to a concert, savor an authentic Philly cheese steak and more. If you're in town on New Year's Day, check out the famous Mummers Parade on South Street.
The area surrounding Springfield, known as Massachusetts' Pioneer Valley, is an ideal spot for a weekend vacation, especially if you have small children. Start at the Dr. Seuss National Memorial, and then explore local history at Historic Deerfield. The Seymour Planetarium and Springfield Science Museum are educational and fun for kids as well as adults, and you'll find a variety of recreational activities to do outdoors. From early spring to late fall, you can explore this beautiful natural setting by foot, bike or boat.
