The Adirondack Mountains span more than 6 million acres and hold more than 3,000 lakes and ponds. Visitors travel year-round to fish, hike, boat and ski in this natural wilderness region. The Adirondacks also have plenty of man-made attractions, from historic colonial sites to performing arts centers. Popular Adirondack attractions include Fort Ticonderoga, Six Flags Great Escape Amusement Park and the Olympic Complex in Plattsburgh.
Lodging in the Adirondacks ranges from high-end resort spas to rustic cabins. The Adirondack Mountains are 58 miles from Albany and roughly 200 miles from Manhattan. Amtrak and Trailways service the area with bus and rail routes.
About 90 miles from Manhattan and 150 miles from Poughkeepsie, is the resort area known as the Hamptons. The Hamptons comprises the eastern Long Island towns of East Hampton and Southhampton. In the summer East Hampton's Main Beach and Coopers Beach in Southampton are the popular spots. In the fall, visitors come for the changing foliage, while the wineries are open all year round. The Hampton Jitney and the Long Island Railroad provide bus and rail transportation from points west.
Often regarded as an elite vacation spot, the Hamptons boast many luxury accommodations. But there are weekend getaways for the not so rich and famous, too. Private homes are also available for weekend rentals.
The Chataqua-Allegheny region is in western New York state. It's best known for the two Great Lakes, Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, that run through it. Obviously, water activities such as boating, fishing and water-skiing are popular in this area but travelers also head here because it's one of the country's largest wine-making regions. The Chautauqua Institution, famous for its arts and culture festival, is also located here.
Weekend travelers to western New York state have many lodging options from traditional to near-authentic Amish experience. It's "near-authentic" because this Amish cottage has plumbing and electricity. The Chautauqua-Allegheny Region is 78 miles south-west of Buffalo and 380 miles west of Manhattan.
The Hudson Valley is known for its pastoral landscape and for being home to Washington Irving, author of "Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Which may be why weekend getaway spots in the Hudson Valley draw both history buffs and nature-lovers.
On 100 acres of forest, the 1805 House of Craryville is a historic colonial bed and breakfast. The Linwood Spiritual Center in Rhinebeck offers weekend getaways for spiritual renewal. Focusing on yoga, silent reflection or spiritual art, these highly specialized getaways may be perfect for devotees, but may not be for the whole family.
The Hudson Valley lies 24 miles north of Manhattan and 60 miles south of Albany. The MTA provides daily bus and rail transportation from Manhattan.
Niagara Falls is famous for its breathtaking views and awe-inspiring magnitude. Just 20 miles north of Buffalo, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular weekend destinations in New York.
Long known as a haven for honeymooners, Niagara Falls is full of romantic weekend getaway spots. The historic Red Coach Inn is a boutique hotel that offers romantic weekend packages. Other amenities include rooms with fireplaces and views of the Upper Rapids. For travelers interested in nightlife and gambling, Seneca Niagara Casino and Hotel offers festive weekend packages.
