Hudson Valley

Just over two hours from New York, the Hudson Valley offers rolling hills, river views, historic towns, and elegant inns. In Rhinebeck, boutique shops, cozy cafés, and the Walkway Over the Hudson bridge provide scenic strolls. Beacon is artsy and vibrant, with galleries, riverside hikes up Mount Beacon, and a relaxed ambiance perfect for couples.

One standout romantic destination is Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz. This Victorian castle-style resort offers a full retreat experience—spa, gourmet dining, hiking trails, boating, and evening entertainment—making it ideal for couples wanting to unwind in style. The region also provides unique stays like hilltop retreats, farmhouses, and boutique inns with views of the Catskill foothills.

The Hudson Valley is seeing a surge in craft breweries and farm-to-glass experiences, adding new flavors to its romantic allure.

Long Island

Long Island’s quieter regions make for superb romantic escapes. The North Fork is dotted with wineries, countryside roads, and charming towns like Greenport. A wine-tasting afternoon followed by a waterfront dinner makes a perfect couple’s day.

Further east, the Hamptons bring elegance, pristine beaches, and upscale accommodations. Walking hand in hand at sunset on the sand, dining in stylish eateries, or staying in a boutique seaside inn all make for a refined romantic stay close to the city.

Catskills

If your romance leans toward nature, the Catskills deliver. Forested mountains, rivers, waterfalls, charming small towns, and outdoor pursuits like hiking or kayaking create a perfect backdrop. Resorts and lodges cater to couples, often offering spa services, private cabins, and fine dining tucked in the woods.

Poconos

About a two-hour drive from the city, the Pocono Mountains are a time-tested romantic choice. With lakes, waterfalls, dense forests, and peaceful towns, the Poconos allow couples to escape the city heat. Many resorts specialize in couple’s amenities—hot tubs, fireplace suites, spa packages, and romantic dinners. One resort, Pocono Palace, markets itself as a luxe romantic retreat only about 80 minutes from Manhattan.

The region is easily accessible, driving via I-80 or I-84, and several bus services link New York to towns like Stroudsburg or Mount Pocono for non-drivers.

Summary

• Mohonk Mountain House is a historic resort in New Paltz that offers a full range of amenities including hiking, spa, dining, boating, and entertainment.

• The Hudson Valley is roughly a two-hour journey from New York via car, trains like Metro-North or Amtrak, depending on the town.

• The Poconos are approximately 100 miles from New York City and reachable in about 2 to 2½ hours by car.

• Some resorts in the Poconos, such as Pocono Palace, are promoted as “romantic escapes” with amenities tailored to couples, and are around 80 minutes from Manhattan in ideal traffic conditions.

• The Hudson Valley region is currently experiencing a boom in craft breweries, adding to its wine and farm tourism offerings.

• Unique lodging options in the Hudson Valley include hilltop retreats, farmhouse stays, and boutique inns with scenic views.

• The Walkway Over the Hudson in Rhinebeck is one of the region’s scenic highlights—a converted railroad bridge turned pedestrian walkway with river views.

• Beacon’s art scene includes Dia:Beacon, galleries, local cafes and is complemented by nearby hiking on Mount Beacon.

What are some popular activities for couples in these getaways?

Activities include wine tasting, hiking, dining at gourmet restaurants, and enjoying spa treatments, offering perfect ways to bond and relax.

How long does it usually take to reach these destinations?

Most getaways are within a 2-3 hour drive or train ride from NYC, making them easily accessible for a weekend trip.

Are there any budget-friendly options?

Yes, many of these locations offer a range of accommodations and activities, allowing couples to find romantic options that suit their budget.

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The park is not just a recreational space but a cultural landmark, attracting millions of visitors each year. In addition to its stunning natural beauty, Central Park holds various historical significance and is home to several iconic attractions. This makes it a beloved destination for both locals and tourists searching for an enjoyable outdoor experience.

Among the variety of locations within the park, certain areas stand out as particularly ideal for picnicking. The Great Lawn, spanning 55 acres, is perhaps the most popular spot. With its vast open spaces, it allows families and friends to gather and soak up the sun while engaging in sports or simply lounging on the grass. The lush surroundings and ample space provide a perfect setting for enjoying a meal.

Another prime spot is Sheep Meadow, a 15-acre expanse that provides stunning views of the surrounding skyline while maintaining a serene atmosphere. Open from 11 AM to 6 PM, visitors can lay out blankets, share food, and relish the tranquility, making it a favored choice for those looking to unwind on a beautiful afternoon.

Additionally, the park features the charming Conservatory Garden, which is a more secluded option with beautifully manicured landscapes and a peaceful ambiance. This formal garden offers a picturesque setting for a picnic amidst blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, catering to those who appreciate a serene environment.

The iconic Bethesda Terrace is also a wonderful location for picnicking, as it overlooks the elegant Bethesda Fountain. This spot sees a lot of activity, with street performers and boaters creating a lively atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy their meals with the soothing sound of water and the joyful ambiance of people watching.

As the weather warms up, many New Yorkers flock to these picturesque spots, making them bustling with energy on the weekends. Therefore, arriving early or considering a weekday visit can provide a more enjoyable experience, avoiding the crowds and allowing for a tranquil time.

For those looking for classic picnic options, several nearby food vendors and delis cater to the picnic crowd, offering everything from gourmet sandwiches to picnic baskets filled with snacks. This makes it easy for visitors to grab a quick bite before finding the perfect spot to relax.

In recent years, Central Park’s management has worked on enhancing these picnic areas, ensuring they remain clean and well-maintained. Consequently, visitors are encouraged to practice good etiquette by cleaning up after themselves and respecting the park rules to ensure these beautiful spaces remain inviting for generations to come.

What are the best times to visit Central Park for a picnic?

The best times for a picnic in Central Park are typically spring and fall when the weather is mild and the scenery is stunning. Weekdays can be less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

Are there restrictions on where to picnic in Central Park?

While picnicking is allowed in most areas, some specific sites may require permits for large gatherings. It’s advisable to check regulations on the official Central Park website before planning a large event.

Can visitors bring food into Central Park?

Yes, visitors are welcome to bring food into Central Park. Many people bring packed lunches or purchase food from local vendors, making picnicking an enjoyable experience.

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Why Rooftop Bars?

When you think of New York, your mind might wander to the busy streets of Manhattan or the serene beauty of Central Park. But what most people overlook is the gem that lies above—a sanctuary perched high above the bustling streets, offering a blend of amazing **drinks**, breathtaking views, and a slightly breezy atmosphere that makes every sip taste a little sweeter. Picture this: you’re nursing a cocktail that cost more than your last meal, but every drop feels worth it as you watch the sun dip below the skyline, casting a golden hue over the city.

1. The Press Lounge

Situated on the roof of the Ink48 Hotel, The Press Lounge is a top contender for the best rooftop bar in the Big Apple. Imagine sinking into a plush lounge chair, cocktail in hand, as you enjoy a panoramic view of the Hudson River and the skyscrapers gleaming in the sunset. This place serves a cocktail called the **“Cucumber Cooler,”** an invigorating mix that’s as refreshing as a splash of water on a hot summer day. And trust me, on those muggy nights, it’s the drink you never knew you needed.

But be forewarned: the rooftop gets packed, particularly during summer, when every trendy New Yorker is vying for a spot. Arrive early, grab your drink, and do your best to pretend you weren’t just fighting off that one guy who thought it was appropriate to wear flip-flops to a bar.

2. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

When it comes to the quintessential New York rooftop experience, you can’t skip over 230 Fifth. This iconic spot boasts stunning views of the Empire State Building and a rooftop garden that will have you feeling like royalty. 230 Fifth stands out, primarily due to its impressive **winter igloos** that keep you cozy while you sip your vast array of cocktails. Who doesn’t want to feel like they’re dining in a snow globe while enjoying a Raspberry Mojito?

During the summer, the vibe shifts to a classic rooftop lounge with rooftop DJs and a crowd that’s all about living their best life. Don’t forget to order the signature **“Mojito Pitcher”** and share (or don’t, we won’t judge). Just be sure to keep your wits about you; the stunning ambiance can lead you to forget that you’re not actually at a beach bar in Ibiza.

3. The Roof at PUBLIC

Another gem in the rooftop treasure chest is The Roof at PUBLIC. Known for its Instagram-friendly views and a cool, laid-back vibe, this bar offers some of the best views of downtown NYC. With an eclectic mix of **cocktails** and small bites, it’s the perfect place to kick off a night of New York adventures—or a night spent contemplating your life choices over a Glass of Sangria.

Their **“Tuxedo #2,”** a gin-based cocktail, will have you feeling sophisticated enough to wear a bowtie, even if your attire resembles more of a casual Friday getting lost in a Monday.

4. Le Bain

Ahh, Le Bain at The Standard. Here, you’re not just getting drinks; you’re stepping into a European-esque experience. The bar features a dance floor, a rooftop terrace, and a hot tub. It’s everything you ever dreamed of in a bar, minus the excessive glitter and questionable 3 A.M. decisions.

Le Bain serves a deliciously decadent cocktail called the **“Sazerac,”** a blend of rye whiskey, sugar, and bitters that has just enough bite to make you feel fancy—at least until you realize half your drink has spilled down your shirt. The peppy atmosphere and music will have you dancing as the night goes on, elevating your spirits higher than the bar itself.

5. Bar 54

Located on the 54th floor of the Hyatt Centric, Bar 54 is your spot if you’re looking for one of the highest rooftop bars in the city. It’s a swanky place with an intimate feel, making it perfect for a date night or a girls’ night out where you secretly judge each other’s cocktail choices (yes, **we see you ordering that piña colada**).

Their **“Lavender Martini”** is a crowd favorite and tastes like a beautiful sunset that you can drink—a floral delight that’s both delightful and Instagram-ready. As the sun sets, you’ll cherish those stunning views of Times Square without the claustrophobia of the bustling streets below.

6. Here’s the Winning Tip!

Now, let’s be honest: rooftop bars come with their fair share of challenges, like long lines, unexpected rain showers, and that feeling of existential dread when you realize you forgot your wallet. To combat all this, make sure to plan ahead. Enjoy weekdays to dodge the crowd, and remember to check for happy hour specials—because no one should have to pay full price for overpriced drinks (not when you can pay half-price!).

In Conclusion

As the sun melts into the horizon and the city lights flicker on, the rooftop scene in New York City is undoubtedly one of its most captivating offerings. So, slap on your best rooftop attire, gather your friends, and prepare to sip on fancy cocktails while soaking in unforgettable views. Cheers to a night above the hustle and bustle—because in New York City, the best moments are often just above the chaos!

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1.  When I’m in New York, I just want to walk down the street and feel this thing, like I’m in a movie. – Ryan Adams

2. If you want to become a real New Yorker, there’s only one rule: You have to believe New York is, has been, and always will be the greatest city on earth. The center of the universe. – Ellen R. Shapiro

3. There is something in the New York air that makes sleep useless. – Simone de Beauvoir

4. London is satisfied, Paris is resigned, but New York is always hopeful. – Dorothy Parker

5. New York is an ugly city, a dirty city. Its climate is a scandal, its politics are used to frighten children, its traffic is madness, its competition is murderous. But there is one thing about it: Once you have lived in New York and it has become your home, no place else is good enough. – John Steinbeck

6. It is ridiculous to set a detective story in New York City. New York City is itself a detective story. – Agatha Christie 

7. I would give the greatest sunset in the world for one sight of New York’s skyline. – Ayn Rand

8.   More than anything else New York is a city of superlatives, a place where the best, the brightest, the biggest is the norm. – Marilyn J. Appleberg

9. New York is really the place to be; to go to New York, you’re going to the center of the world, the lion’s den. – Zubin Mehta

10. A hundred times I have thought: New York is a catastrophe, and fifty times: it is a beautiful catastrophe. – Le Corbusier 

11. One belongs to New York instantly, one belongs to it as much in five minutes as in five years. – Thomas Wolfe

12. I get out of the taxi and it’s probably the only city which in reality looks better than on the postcards, New York. – Milos Forman

13. One can’t paint New York as it is, but rather as it is felt. – Georgia O’Keefe

14. You haven’t lived until you died in New York. – Alexander Woollcott  

15. New York is a diamond iceberg floating in river water. – Truman Capote

Read more: 7 unique NYC activities for an unusual trip

16. When you leave New York you ain’t going anywhere. – Jimmy Breslin

17. It was never built for the comfort and happiness of its citizens, but to astonish the world. – Susan Ertz 

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1. Traffic signals in New York are just rough guidelines. – David Letterman

2. New York now leads the world’s great cities in the number of people around whom you shouldn’t make a sudden move. – David Letterman

3. The last time anybody made a list of the top hundred character attributes of New Yorkers, common sense snuck in at number 79. – Douglas Adams 

4. The true New Yorker secretly believes that people living anywhere else have to be, in some sense, kidding. – John Updike

5. In New York, most people don’t have cars, so if you want to kill a person, you have to take the subway to their house. And sometimes on the way, the train is delayed and you get impatient, so you have to kill someone on the subway. That’s why there are so many subway murders; no one has a car. – George Carlin

6. Practically everybody in New York has half a mind to write a book — and does. – Groucho Marx

7. Anytime four New Yorkers get into a cab together without arguing, a bank robbery has just taken place. – Johnny Carson

8. New York is the only city in the world where you can get deliberately run down on the sidewalk by a pedestrian. – Russell Baker 

9. What’s the use of a great city having temptations if fellows don’t yield to them? – P.G. Wodehouse

10. …For in that city [New York] there is neurosis in the air which the inhabitants mistake for energy. – Evelyn Waugh

11. When you leave New York, you are astonished at how clean the rest of the world is. Clean is not enough. – Fran Lebowitz

12. There is more sophistication and less sense in New York than anywhere else on the globe. – Elbert Hubbard

13. Every true New Yorker believes with all his heart that when a New Yorker is tired of New York, he is tired of life. – Robert Moses 

14. It’ll be a great place if they ever finish it. – O. Henry

15. Manhattan is an accumulation of possible disasters that never happen. – Edward I. Koch

16. New York is a place where the rich walk, the poor drive Cadillac’s, and the beggars die of malnutrition with thousands of dollars hidden in their mattresses. – Duke Ellington

17. On a New York subway you get fined for spitting, but you can throw up for nothing. – Lewis Grizzard

Read more: 7 unique NYC activities for an unusual trip

18. True New Yorkers do not really seek information about the outside world. They feel that if anything is not in New York it is not likely to be interesting. – Jimmy Breslin

19. New York – The city where the people from Oshkosh look at the people from Dubuque in the next theater seats and say “These New Yorkers don’t dress any better than we do. – Robert Benchley

20. My dad was the town drunk. Most of the time that’s not so bad; but New York City? – Henny Youngman

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#1 Ride the Seaglass Carousel and feel like a child again

Photo: Kristina D.C. Hoeppner/Flickr.com

As a native New Yorker, I am always looking for unique things to do in New York City. So when I heard about the Seaglass Carousel on the Travel Channel, I was absolutely ecstatic.

Located in Lower Manhattan, in Battery Park, the seaglass carousel overlooks the majestic beauty of the Statue of Liberty and is a great stop for anyone touring this part of the City. But this man made marvel is unlike any carousel that I have ever ridden on.  For $5.00 a ride, get in line and hop on the iridescent fish of your choice.

As the music begins and your fish begins to twirl around, you feel like a kid again; a sense of child-like awe and wonder overcomes you as you take in the music and the shimmering colors that sparkle around you. For a moment, you begin to think that you are a part of Ariel’s world in the Little Mermaid, but then the ride comes to a halt and your are propelled back into the reality of Lower Manhattan. A truly one of a kind experience that is fun for adults and children alike.

Kelly Duhigg from Girl With the Passport

#2 Walk the High Line and take time to smell the flowers

High Line NYC Sidewalk Safari | SidewalkSafari.com

The High Line is by far the coolest park and walking route in New York City in my opinion. Built on a former elevated train line that was abandoned for years, the High Line was conceived about 15 years ago and new life was breathed into the track when it was turned into a walking and running path in 3 phases starting in 2009. The High Line begins in the Meatpacking District at Washington and Gansevoort Street and runs all the way to 11th Avenue and 34th Street. The High Line can be quite busy on the weekends but I’ve found that in the early morning during the week, you’ll have the High Line practically to yourself. Get up early, grab a coffee and enjoy a relaxing walk. If you’re a fast walker, you can hike the High Line end-to-end in less than 45 minutes. I’m always tempted to dawdle though. I love admiring New York’s signature water tanks sitting atop the various apartment buildings along the route.

High Line Park is filled with wildflowers and other low maintenance species lending an unkempt air to the place consistent with its history. Why not take some extra time to stop and smell the flowers? Art installations dot the High Line from end-to-end so there is always something new to see every time you visit Manhattan. I love the sense of being above it all when I hike the High Line. There are no traffic signals to slow you down and the city sounds seem to fade away.

Jennifer (aka Dr. J) from Sidewalk Safari

#3 Make an impact by joining a cooking class that support refugees

Photo: Katie Smith/Unsplash.com

A unique and impactful experience to have in New York City is to take a cooking class at League of Kitchens through Visit.org. The food workshops are led by immigrants hailing from all around the world to promote cultural exchange through culinary arts. One of the main reasons why we travel is to taste local food around the globe. What could be better than learning to cook cultural cuisine while impacting the community responsible for it and sharing a meal with new friends? Not only will you learn some new culinary skills, discover exotic flavors and ancient recipes– you’ll also be making a far greater impact than learning to make a new dish by supporting the social enterprise. During the cooking lesson, you’ll have the opportunity to learn traditional recipes from expert home cooks for an authentic feast. This delicious culinary experience supports refugees, which is more important now than ever. ”

Lola Méndez from Miss Filatelista 

#4 Indulge into street art at Brooklyn’s Bushwick Collective

Bushwick Collective in Brooklyn | BoardingCallBlog.com

If you’re a street art lover, or just love culture in general, you can’t miss Brooklyn’s Bushwick Collective. The Bushwick Collective is an open air street art mural collection you can tour through yourself to explore a side of New York City that many visitors don’t see. So don’t just stick to the typical tourist spots, get out of Manhattan and into Brooklyn!

About the Bushwick Collective: Bushwick native Joe Ficalora founded the Bushwick Collective in an effort to transform his industrial and gritty neighborhood in Brooklyn. In the past years, Bushwick has gone from a neighborhood largely avoided by tourists to a hip area frequented by locals and in-the-know tourists as well. Vogue‘s Anna Wintour even named Bushwick the seventh coolest neighborhood in the world (whatever that means!).

One of the great things about visiting the Bushwick Collective is that it is a bit of a trip from Manhattan which means that the people who are really interested in street art make it there, so it’s not nearly as busy or touristy as your typical Manhattan must-sees.

If you’re interested in learning a bit more about the art itself, consider booking a tour with Street Art Walk.

How to get to the  Bushwick Collective: Take the L train to Bushwick and get out at Jefferson St. Station. From there it is a short walk to the Bushwick Collective. Depending on where you leave from in Manhattan, it will likely take you 30-40 minutes. In the area you’ll find cafes and restaurants, so its the perfect place to get breakfast and admire street art for a few hours.

Gabby from Boarding Call 

#5 Discover new bands at the magical Rockwood Music Hall

Takuya Kuroda packed the house last night! 📸 by @silentninjashutter

A post shared by Rockwood Music Hall (@rockwoodmusichall) on Dec 7, 2017 at 8:37am PST

When I moved to New York City eight years ago, I was obsessed with music and bands and going to as many concerts as humanly possible. I worked as an assistant to various artists and interned at record labels, eventually earning my bachelor’s degree in music management. Before I moved to New York, I had visited the city quite a bit and was familiar with one particular music venue called Rockwood Music Hall, which is a unique establishment on the Lower East Side of Manhattan that is both unassuming and perfectly magical.

Rockwood Music Hall consists of three separate “stages” or rooms, ranging in size from extremely tiny (“Rockwood 1” as its known to regulars) to “Rockwood 2” and “Rockwood 3” which have a slightly larger capacity and can host anything from a secret show for a celebrity performer to a gathering of local New York musicians supporting each others’ work. The style of music varies, but you can always assume that even if you don’t know the band, popping in to see who’s playing will always be worth your while.

There is something incredibly special about the atmosphere at Rockwood Music Hall, and it has always been the place I feel most at home in the big city. I have attended hundreds of shows there at this point, and every one is a little different. While it has become more well-known in the past few years, it still has a sort of “speakeasy” vibe and provides an experience that is cozy, welcoming and inspiring all at the same time. Bands from all over the world come to perform at Rockwood, and they have a packed schedule of one artist per hour anywhere from 3 pm to 1 am every single night! Entry is often free, making it an even more enticing evening activity in pricy New York City.

Sierra Dehmler from Passportvoyager.com (where you can find her inside guide to New York City)

#6 Experience Broadway without the Broadway ticket prices

Ellen’s Stardust Diner | beeanythingbutboring.com

One of the most popular things to do when coming to NYC is to go to a Broadway show. What if I told you that you could experience Broadway without the Broadway ticket prices? Ellen’s Stardust Diner is a unique gem located on Broadway St. in Time Square, and is home to the world famous singing waitstaff. The staff will not only take your food order and bring you the world’s most delicious milkshake, but will also sing and dance on tables to Broadway hits! Known as a halfway house to Broadway, the talent level in this place is insane and the turnover rate is high due to the waitstaff getting discovered for Broadway roles. This place is a favorite for both tourists and locals a like and if you decide to have a meal here before going to a Broadway show, be prepared to have the best day of your life! There is ALWAYS a line (like most places in NYC) so be prepared to wait, but once you’re inside you’ll realize why because you won’t want to leave and give up your table either!

Rachael from Bee Anything But Boring 

#7 Visit a mmuseumm the size of a freight elevator

Photo courtesy: Mmuseumm

There is no typo in the heading. This thought-provoking spot located on Cortlandt Alley in New York City is unique in many aspects but mainly in the way it makes you think about contemporary culture, politics and the world as a whole.  The exhibition fitted in a former freight elevator uses ‘object journalism’  as it has been described by journalist Rob Walker to describe Mmuseumm’s original approach to curation. Mmuseumm explores the modern world, current events, and humanity through the exhibition of vernacular objects. The exhibitions are changing and feature wondrous objects such as gluten-free Communion wafer, a selfie-stick that unintentionally cause premature death,

Mmuseumm is open to visitors every Thursday and Friday from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and every Saturday
and Sunday from 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Visible 24/7 though viewing windows and calling into the audio
guide. $5 suggested donation for visitors.

Featured photo courtesy: Mmuseumm

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