Getaways For The New Yorker
For the average New Yorker, the hustle and bustle of the city is a key factor of everyday life. Where does one go to take a break from the crazy beautiful life that is New York City? New York City offers many hidden gems that can make you forget about the hectic day that you endured last week. Here is the top, ten getaways that will make you forget you're in New York.
Montauk: Located 100 miles from NYC Montauk is the historic beach town you need to visit. It is easy access from NYC’s Penn Station via Long Island Railroad. Montauk is perfect for any age as well as a family trip. There are a ton of things to do there so it’s recommended to stay more than one day if you can. Grab an Acai bowl at Happy Bowls in the morning then head over to camp hero to hike the trails that lead to a beautiful view overlooking the ocean. For lunch, grab a lobster roll at any of Montauk’s local restaurants. After lunch head into town to check out the local shops that include high end clothing stores, restaurants, and bars perfect for nightlife. 21+ don’t forget to check out Memory Motel where you can have the night of your life in the same spot as The Rolling Stones stayed at while being on tour in 1975. The Rolling Stones even produced a song, ”Memory Motel,” that the venue inspired. The venue turns into a club at night but don't wait too long to get there because It gets packed fast. They’re also great bars and restaurants to check out such as Bounce, Shagwons, TT’s, and The Point. For a calmer day, Montauk offers some of the nicest beaches in New York. If surfing is your thing you will be able to catch some waves. Take a walk on the beach to the ditch plains food truck where you can enjoy a fresh meal right on the beach. After a long beach day head over to the Montauk lighthouse for a beautiful sunset view.
Bear Mountain: Looking to be one with nature? Do not fear, Bear Mountain is here. Just one hour outside NYC west of the Hudson River in Rockland County, Bear Mountain State Park is easily accessible by Metro North, port authority busses, or a simple car ride. The state park offers hiking trails, picnic fields, large fields for outdoor activities, a swimming pool, paddle and row boats during summer months, as well as skiing in the colder months. Bear Mountain State Park hiking trails are for the beginner to moderate hiker and include beautiful views. Bear Mountain is a great option to clear your head and getaway.
Brooklyn Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden of Brooklyn is a perfect day destination for relaxation and a change of scenery. Founded in 1910, the garden connects people to the beauty of flowers. According to the Brooklyn Botanical Garden Mission Statement, “In the Garden, in its community, and well beyond, BBG inspires people of all ages through the conservation, display, and enjoyment of plants; with educational programs that emphasize learning by doing; and with research focused on understanding and conserving regional plants and plant communities.” There’re 18 sections to the garden itself. Each one includes different flowers that bloom throughout different points of the year. Before visiting the garden check out the website https://www.bbg.org/bloom o see what flowers are currently in bloom! Don’t forget to grab lunch at Yellow Magnolia Canteen, where you can enjoy soups, salad, sandwiches and snacks submerged by nature.
Harbes: Harbes Orchard is the perfect fall activity that every New Yorker should experience. Harbes Orchard in Riverhead, New York, is located on the scenic Sound Ave, two hours away from NYC. Enjoy apple picking, pumpkin patches, nighttime corn maze, as well as an assortment of fall food classics that include warm apple cider doughnuts, fresh corn on the cob, cold and hot apple cider, as well as locally made, grown, and sourced fruits and vegetables. For a more inclusive experience Harbes Vineyard in Mattituck, New York, where you can enjoy locally made wine at the wine bar, a cozy renovated, 100-year-old potato barn. On your way home don’t forget to stop at Briermere Farms to pick up the locally made and delicious fruit pies.
Fire island: Just off the coast of Long island Fire Island is a summer getaway that will make you completely forget about all New York City stress. The 32-mile strip can only be reached by ferry or water taxi off the south shore of Long Island right out of the city. There’re many ports along the south shore of Long Island that bring you to various parts of Fire Island. Fire island is a diverse island with no cars, beautiful beach houses, great restaurants, nightlife scene, and friendly people. The island has 17 communities, each special in its own way. Head out to Ocean Beach/Seaview for a family-oriented beach day, restaurants, and exciting nightlife scene. Fire Island is also known for The Pines and Cherry Grove, a safe LGBT space with beautiful beaches. Head out to Cherry’s on The Bay to watch an amazing Drag Queen performance. The Drag Invasion is a sight to see during the 4th of July weekend. Fire Island will make you feel like you're on vacation while still being in New York.
New Paltz, NY: Just three hours outside New York City New Paltz is the serenity any New Yorker needs. The small town has an indie/hippy vibe that is perfect for relaxation. Mohonk Preserve is a place where you can enjoy the Shawangunk Mountains that include more than 60 miles of trails for various activities that include hiking, bike riding, horseback riding, skiing, camping, and more outdoor activities. In New Paltz style, check out one of the many farm-to-table restaurants. A local favorite, A Tavola Trattoria, is an Italian restaurant that is known for its delicious dishes such as sweet potato gnocchi, local grilled ribeye, and arancini.
The Jersey Shore: Even though the argument about which state is better, New York or New Jersey, there is no denying the Jersey Shore is often a classic New York getaway. The Jersey Shore has many unique beaches, all with their own personalities. Into Gambling? Head down to the south Jersey Shore to Atlantic City. Traveling with family? Head to Wildwood or Ocean City to enjoy a nostalgic feel while walking down the boardwalk at night. Looking for amazing views and calmer environment? Head down to Cape May (the furthest beach south on the Jersey Shore). Want to enjoy Fire Island, NY? Head out to Long Beach Island for a day of chill beach vibes, great restaurants, and exciting nightlife.
Hudson, NY: Hudson is just three hours out of New York City. It might be upstate New York’s most trendy town. The town's unique look takes inspiration from Brooklyn but is set in the valley. Vogue even claims it to be known as “the Brooklyn of Hudson Valley.” Local small businesses rule the area, and It’s what makes the town so trendy. From boutique hotels, highly rated bakeries, and a bunch of shops located in town it gives off a hipster vibe. It’s said that autumn is the best time to visit Hudson. Getting to Hudson is easy and accessible via train. Warner St is the town’s downtown, where you can find art galleries, antique shop, jewelry stores, and some of the best restaurants, cafes, bars, and coffee shops in the area. The strategically located town is also only 30 minutes away from the Catskills, where there’re many outdoor activities to check out.
Sojo Spa: Right in New York City’s backyard is the getaway every overwhelmed New Yorker should experience at least once. SoJo Spa club is located in Edgewater, New Jersey, just across the Hudson. SoJo Spa overlooks the New York City Skyline and provides elite spa services with inspiration from Asian spas. Sojo offers various spa services, including massages, couple massages, acupressure, Korean body scrubs, sauna and therapy rooms, volcanic sand baths, outdoor pool, outdoor and indoor lounge, fitness and yoga studio, and a dining hall. Traveling during the summer? Do not forget to grab a meal or snack at the rooftop grill. Sojo's diverse Asian inspired menu will have something for everyone. The spa has even added a space where people can get some work done, send emails, and relax afterwards all in the same space. It's important to know that a Covid-19 vaccination card must be presented at time of arrival or a negative covid test 72 hours prior to your appointment. Appointments can be made online, sojospaclub.com, where they offer deals, packages, promotions, and daily passes.
Hartford CT: Hartford is the historic city you need to visit. One of the oldest cities in the United States, Hartford was founded in 1635. The city's unique architecture features styles from colonial and European time periods. Hartford is the perfect getaway for any art or English literature lover. Be sure to visit Mark Twain’s House, where you can take a variety of tours. The Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art is America's oldest art museum. Different exhibits can be found here including European art, American art, Contemporary art, as well as many other artworks. Tag along with a nature lover and check out Bushnell Park, America's first public park.
Written by Evan Terranova, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Lekha Samala, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine
