15+ Underrated Weekend Trips from New York City

You don’t need a plane ticket or a packed itinerary to recharge. Some of the best weekend getaways are just a short drive, bus, or train ride from New York City—and most people have never even heard of them. Whether you’re into nature, history, or small-town charm, here are 15+ low-key destinations that are easier to reach than you’d expect.

15+ Underrated Weekend Trips from NYC

Cold Spring, NY

Just an hour north by Metro-North, Cold Spring offers river views, antique shops, and hiking trails, including the popular Breakneck Ridge.

Milford, PA

This town in the Poconos blends waterfalls, historic inns, and art galleries—all within a two-hour drive from NYC.

Warwick, NY

Surrounded by orchards and wineries, Warwick makes a solid day-to-weekend trip, especially during apple season.

Kent, CT

Known for its scenic roads and covered bridges, Kent also has hiking, art galleries, and a calm vibe perfect for unplugging.

Lambertville, NJ

Across from New Hope, PA, Lambertville is filled with vintage shops, quiet canal walks, and farm-to-table spots.

Phoenicia, NY

A Catskills gem with a laid-back main street and tubing on the Esopus Creek during warmer months.

Narrowsburg, NY

Right along the Delaware River, this artsy village has eagle watching, indie boutiques, and a surprisingly strong food scene.

Little Compton, RI

Far less known than Newport, this coastal town has quiet beaches, a local winery, and stonewall-lined roads.

Clinton, NJ

With a 200-year-old mill and a walkable downtown, Clinton offers a peaceful blend of history and nature close to NYC.

Hudson, NY

Skip the obvious and dig deeper—beyond antiques, Hudson has indie cinemas, music venues, and chef-driven restaurants.

Beacon, NY

Although it’s gaining traction, Beacon remains an easy train escape packed with street art, Dia Beacon, and waterfront views.

Saugerties, NY

A quieter alternative to Woodstock, Saugerties features hiking at the falls, local bookshops, and scenic drives.

Port Jefferson, NY

Located on Long Island’s North Shore, this harbor town has walkable streets, a ferry to Connecticut, and beachside cafes.

Tarrytown & Sleepy Hollow, NY

Less touristy than you’d expect, these twin towns have riverside trails, historic estates, and a dose of legend.

Stonington Borough, CT

Right near Mystic but much calmer, this coastal village has seafood shacks, historic homes, and a low-key harborfront.

New Paltz, NY

Weekend travel from NYC doesn’t have to mean crowded train stations or jam-packed itineraries. These lesser-known escapes offer quick access, lower costs, and just enough difference from the city to make a short trip feel like a reset. Whether you’re in the mood for nature, quiet towns, or underrated food scenes, each spot on this list is doable in two or three days—no burnout required. Let your next out-of-town plan be easy to reach and hard to forget—for all the right reasons.

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15+ Underrated Weekend Trips That are Surprisingly Easy from New York City