Top Travel Destinations for a New York Weekend

Weekend getaways are easy to enjoy in New York State, as there is so much to see and do.

02:27 15 July 2025

Weekend getaways are easy to enjoy in New York State, as there is so much to see and do. You can fit an adventure into any weekend by traveling to numerous destinations across the state. Consider what type of activities you wish to enjoy, and the options are endless. Review the weekend getaway ideas below to see how you can explore New York during your next visit.

Enjoy a Lakeside Retreat

Outdoor enthusiasts will love traveling to New York and exploring the state's diverse lakes and wilderness areas. Most tourists think of New York as a bustling metropolis with numerous skyscrapers and crowded streets. And while this is partially true, the state is also home to beautiful outdoor areas where you can hike and enjoy water activities. 

Travel to Lake George and enjoy a vacation paradise where you can boat or fish on the lake, and take in amazing views of the Adirondack wilderness. You can also travel to Lake Placid, where you will find a unique indoor and outdoor natural history museum.

Ithaca is a great option for waterfall views and hiking trails, and you can end the day touring the local art and dining scene.

Explore Local Casinos

Traveling for an adult-only weekend? Consider planning a getaway to a local casino. New York is home to a handful of casinos where you can enjoy gaming entertainment, fine dining, drinks, and more. The state is home to the Resorts World Catskills, Turning Stone Resort Casino, and the Resorts World New York City venue.

If you are traveling with children and unable to plan an adult-only trip, don’t worry, as you can still enjoy casino gaming options. Popular online casinos in New York allow you to play via sweepstakes gaming platforms. Use your smartphone to create an account and play slots, table games, live dealers, and more for free, with Gold and Sweeps Coins.

Plan a Historic Adventure

If you're in the mood for a bit of history, consider visiting Schenectady or Kingston. These cities in the state offer a glimpse into the local history. Schenectady is home to the Stockade Historic District, which is considered the oldest residential neighborhood in America. You can explore unique historic sites as you tour the district.

Kingston was the first capital of the state and offers a rich history of New York. There are also chic restaurants, shops, and other unique attractions to add to your itinerary. 

Tour the Big Cities

Saving the best for last, a trip to New York would not be complete without visiting the major cities. Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx are all top picks for travelers. In Manhattan, you get the classic New York experience with iconic skyscrapers, fine dining, arts, and culture. 

Be sure to review all the local attractions in Manhattan and make your top picks, as you most likely won’t have the time to do it all in one weekend. The most popular attractions include Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park.

In Brooklyn, you can explore trendy neighborhoods, historic landmarks, and try unique cuisine. Queens is a culturally diverse area with renowned museums and sports teams. Travel to the Bronx and explore the largest zoo in the US, and get to know the birthplace of hip-hop.

Factors to Consider When Traveling to New York

As you plan your next weekend getaway to New York State, it’s important to consider a few important factors. Review your budget and top destinations. Consider how you will be traveling and if multiple forms of transportation will be needed. 

Locate hotels or other accommodations near your top attractions, so it’s easy to travel during your stay. Review local restaurants or attractions you wish to visit to ensure they line up with your budget plans. Travel can be expensive, and if you don’t weigh your options and plan accordingly, you may not be able to enjoy everything on your list.

Use our ideas to get you started in planning a weekend getaway to New York State. Your trip can be as elaborate or as simple as you like. Be prepared to enjoy your stay as you tour one of the most fascinating states in the US.