Looking for weekend escapes from the hustle and bustle of New York City, but unsure where to go? These five weekend escapes from NYC offer fine dining, luxurious spas, arts and culture, and a chance to relax away from the 24-hour lights of the city.
Buffalo, New York
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This upstate city has rebranded itself with stylish architecture, elevated restaurants, and fabulous hotels. For cultural must-sees in Buffalo, visit The Martin House, Graycliff, Fontana’s Boat House, and the Blue Sky Mausoleum, all designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This cluster of Wright designs makes Buffalo the perfect escape for the architecture-lover. Enhance the experience by booking a sunset tour from Explore Buffalo or a wine-and-cheese tour at Graycliff. Stay at the Roycroft Inn, an all-suite hotel, located at the birthplace of the Arts and Crafts design movement. And treat yourself to a meal at Roost, restaurant of Buffalo’s beloved chef Martin Danilowicz for a taste of why the locals love their home.
Beacon, New York
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Home to the Dia:Beacon museum, the Hudson Valley town is home to art cafés, design boutiques, and independent galleries, making Beacon the art-lovers ideal getaway. This modern museum is host to some of the most massive works today. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this museum is all there is to the town: be sure to catch the smaller galleries and shops in town. Stay at The Roundhouse, an elegantly industrial hotel that is made up of a cluster of restored industrial building. Enjoy an upscale dining experience at Roundhouse Beacon’s Restaurant, where the food and décor are both picturesque and designed to support the local economy.
Norwalk, Connecticut
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Beach weekend escapes just hours out of the city offer luxury, relaxation, and New England serenity. Norwalk’s harbor is one of largest centers of recreational boating, commercial shellfishing, and other water-centric activities. From the shoreline, access Connecticut’s best boating, public beaches, lighthouses, and protected islands and marinas. Stay at GrayBarns, a luxury getaway with large canopy beds, plush velvet couches, and in-room fireplaces. Dine at Beach House SoNo for regional seafood and elegant dishes.
Berkshires, Massachusetts
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The appeal of the Berkshires lies in the enchanting townships, green farmland, dense forest, and crumbling stone walls. Frequent folk festivals, independent bookshops, art galleries, and farmers’ markets create a bohemian atmosphere. Visit the Norman Rockwell Museum or take in a performance by the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood. Book a room at Wheatleigh; a Berkshires cottage turned bed-and-breakfast with incredible views. Eat at Prairie Whale for local food and a specially curated wine list.
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
One of New England’s most beautiful summer destinations, Watch Hill is authentic and rustic. With almost two miles of picturesque beaches and a charming town center in Bay Street, Watch Hill is the perfect seaside village for a weekend getaway. Stay at Ocean House, located next door to Taylor Swift’s Rhode Island home, situated on a clifftop with pathways down to the white sand beach. Operated by Relais and Châteaux, the property feels like an intimate resort thanks to its 2010 renovation. Enjoy oysters raised in a local pond at Matunuck Oyster Bar, among a variety of other fine seafood selections.
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