As we enter the winter and holiday season, we really only get a long weekend surrounding major holidays, but that can’t stop us from going on a quick road trip to get out of town! Small towns are always fun to explore but there are plenty of big and little cities to explore colorful fall foliage before the seasons change yet again. This time of year is beautiful and if you’re looking for the perfect place to soak it all in before the snow arrives, you’ll love this list! Here are the best fall getaways to end the season on the east coast.
Firstly, New Yorkers love to have a close getaway for shorter weekends. The Pocono mountains are not only stunning but one of the best weekend getaway destinations for families.There are adorable local cafes, you’re in nature so you can hike if you’d like! It’s a total outdoor playground there. The French Manor and Spa has plenty of packages to book, which is always a good reason to check it out! You can enjoy a glass of wine and visit their enchanting spa for the entire weekend! With plenty of amenities, room options and great dining, this is the place to be! I’d say it makes for a romantic getaway as well for the fall season.
Silvermine, Ct
Moving out of New York State into Connecticut! Silvermine is a place I don’t think many people have heard of. It is located in Fairfield County, CT and named after the old legend of silver mines that were thought to be there, but never found. There a lot of history to this town and combined with the trails lined by beautiful trees, this town is not one to be missed! Exploring a town that is rich in history and is so quiet makes for a relaxing weekend away. Enjoy everything the locals do and eat at the best restaurants in town while the leaves change colors for the final time this year.
In Upstate New York, the cutest town is found on a lake! Located in The Finger Lakes in NY, this is the perfect destination for NY locals and really anyone all over the world to see! Do you like spa treatments and wineries? Then you have to stay at The Belhurst Castle and Winery! Wine enthusiasts have actually named it the best hotel, so I think that’s enough for me to hear to determine on booking a trip! The spa and winery are all located on one property, so you don’t have to worry about getting to and from there. I love a short walk to transportation and lodging.
Montauk
I know this might feel like it’s only a summer spot, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Montauk is an iconic spot in New York, located just past the Hamptons. The biggest reason it makes the list for fall best weekend getaways is because it’s off season there, so it’s not crowded! Walk around the town, see the iconic lighthouse and enjoy a luxury hotel.
Woodstock
Now this is a better time for winter, but fall is still fabulous here. My family and I recently took a trip to Woodstock, Vermont to go skiing and snowboarding, and I have to tell you we had an absolute blast! I don’t hear a ton of people talking about it and I must say this place is an absolute must-go! It is seriously the cutest town with fantastic outdoor activities, which is great to explore hiking trails.
The Catskills
I think it’s safe to say that everyone knows what they are getting with a Catskill Mountains weekend away: An affordable trip with peace and quiet! This is a great trip to take with kids because the drive out there isn’t bad (around 2 hours) and you get to stay in cute lodges! Or a hotel, if you prefer. I would have to say this might be one of the best places to roast s’mores over a fire.
The Berkshires
Does anyone watch The Real Housewives of New York here? I can’t help but think of that when I think of the Berkshires! It is one of the most beautiful places near NYC. The nature is truly breathtaking. Jason and I spent a weekend there a couple of years ago and I have a whole blog post about it here, but I’ll name off a few more things you can do on your trip! Take a nice walk on Monument Mountain, Mount Greylock or down the block of wherever you are staying because you will want to take all the scenery in. Go ziplining at Ramblewild Adventure Park (my kids love this!), there are tons of Museums- the Massachusetts Contemporary Museum, Norman Rockwell Museum and check out the Berkshire Botanical Garden!
Boston
City folk, if you want to visit another big city, this is the one to go to! We visited Boston a few years ago, and I have been meaning to go back! It’s one of the best cities to go to for the weekend, whether you’re taking your family or just your significant other, there is so much to do and see. We actually took the train out and it was totally manageable and only took a couple hours. See a sports game, enjoy amazing food and explore the city like a local.
Mohonk Mountain House
If anyone happens to get a long weekend, then I would point you in this direction for family fun! This is an all-inclusive resort for both kids and adults AND its over 150 years old! They offer everything you can think of from their award winning-spa to special weekend events to ice skating and so much more! You stay there because that is where everything is, so you don’t even have to worry about driving around and finding things to do! City dwellers, you won’t be in a big town and everything you need it steps away, so it’s a great time for only a short trip and short drive.
Philadelphia
We’ve been here so many times simply because it’s incredibly close. I have to say, we have the best time there! You can easily take a one day or full weekend trip there! Ryder and I took the bus out there a few years ago and had a great day trip just the two of us! Our crew loves the Four Seasons hotel there and the food is always good, so we tend to head out there at least once a year.
Rockaway
Finally, let’s stick close to the city! Queens has a lot to offer, you know! This is the closest getaway spot, which is perfect if you aren’t looking to go too far. It can be fun to plan a weekend jam packed with activities, but there’s something to be said about a place that has everything ready for you at your fingertips, with no planning needed on your end. The Rockaway Hotel is our favorite spot for a great stay, plenty of space, a spa, kids activities and access to delicious food steps away. Take the ferry out there for a pretty ride!
*This post was originally published November 23rd, 2023*
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