New York State has been a popular destination since 1609, when Henry Hudson first explored the Hudson River. Conquered by the English and named New York in honor of the Duke of York, it was one of the first states to form the Federal Union in July 1776, and was labeled "The Empire State" by George Washington in 1784. Rich in history as well as natural landscapes, New York has the best the world has to offer for a weekend getaway.
The Omega Institute is a personal growth retreat center that lies nestled in a forest of Syracuse trees in upstate New York. The institute has year-round retreats that vary from intense all-day yoga workshops to specialized writing and meditation courses, designed to educate and heal individuals and society. In their mission statement, the Omega Institute promises to offer simplicity, integrity, accountability, holism and teamwork. Their packages include different types of lodging and all vegetarian buffet meals. During breaks, attendees can walk down to the on-site lake and take a small nap on a hammock or paddle out on one of the canoes provided free of charge. The institute offers complimentary shuttle to and from the train station and has ample parking for those arriving by car.
Omega Institute
150 Lake Drive
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
(845) 266-4444
eomega.org
Taking a weekend getaway to New York City can be an enriching adventure. The city has something to offer everyone, from single individuals to romantic couples and families alike. Some family-friendly activities include taking a ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty, Central Park Zoo and wondering about the city's streets. More romantic activities include fine dining at one of the many haute cuisine restaurants the city has to offer, and attending famous Broadway shows. Individual travelers seeking to spend a weekend in New York City can indulge in visiting the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA) and the American Museum of Natural History, as well as strolling historical neighborhoods such as Harlem and Soho. To get the richest experience out of the city, it is advisable to visit one of the visitor centers, which will have a list of seasonal shows and activities as well as free maps of the city.
Travelers Aid at Times Square
North Wing, 625 8th Ave., 2nd Floor
(212) 944-0013
ny.com
Niagara Falls is a favorite vacation spot for the whole family. The waterfalls offer fantastic views of the free-flowing, rushing torrents of water, with a misty atmosphere that is both exciting and inspiring to witness. The Niagara Falls New York State Park hosts the Top of the Falls restaurant, with spectacular views of the falls and a Cave of the Winds tour that lets you walk up to the base of the falls. An additional tour that happens during the warn months is the Maid of the Mist boat ride that takes passengers close to the break of the falls to experience the full power of the water. The park also offers packages that include an entrance to the Aquarium of Niagara, the Legends of Adventure Theater, the Niagara Discovery Center and a gorge trip.
Niagara Falls New York State Park
P.O. Box 773
Niagara Falls, NY 14302
(716) 278-0337
niagarafallsstatepark.com
