Upstate New York is a stunning region in New York State that offers plenty of nature-filled destinations for those seeking respite from the city. Are you planning a getaway with your partner for the weekend? This region is known for its numerous hiking trails, such as Buttermilk Falls Gorge Trail and Overlook Mountain Trail. After hiking, you can enjoy some breathtaking views of the region’s landscapes. There are lots of small towns in the Adirondacks that are worth exploring with your significant other, including Lake Placid and Saranac Lake. If you are looking for the perfect destination for your next trip, check out the top romantic weekend getaways in Upstate New York.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 30, 2025.
1. Beacon
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The heart of the Hudson Valley, Beacon, has many attractions to explore. It is 67 mi (107.83 km) from New York City and is an hour and a half’s drive. As you reach Beacon, you must visit the ruins of Bannerman Castle which stands down the Hudson River on Pollepel Island. If you’re enthusiastic about how glassware is made, then you can visit Hudson Beach Glass, a store that allows customers to see the process of glassblowing while they shop.
Take a romantic walk alongside the Hudson river in Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park with driftwood and trees. You’ll be thrilled to visit Beacon Flea Market if you like the antique and vintage collections.
Book Your Stay: The Roundhouse
Book Your Stay: Beacon Hermitage
2. Peekskill
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you and your partner love adventure and going down history, you must drive one hour from New York City. Peekskill is about 49 mi (78.86 km) from New York. Learn about Peekskill’s history at Peekskill Museum where exhibits are on display. Then, you can visit Bear Mountain State Park, located on the West Bank of the Hudson River, for some adventure, such as hiking, swimming, boating, and more.
Take your sweetheart on a date to the Paramount Hudson Valley Theatre, which has dance, art, storytelling, music, and poetry performances. Then, have delicious food vibing to the live music at Sunset House restaurant.
Book Your Stay: The Abbey Inn & Spa
3. Woodstock
Delightful continental breakfast with fresh fruit, pastries, and vegan options.
Reasonable pricing for a historic boutique hotel in the heart of Woodstock.
Conveniently situated on Tinker Street, close to shops, restaurants, and attractions.
Charming decor, shared bathrooms, cozy communal spaces, and a meditation room.
Plan a weekend getaway with your loved one to Woodstock, a two-hour drive from New York. It is around 108 mi (173.81 km) away from New York. Woodstock welcomes you both to its varied culture and art. You can visit New Paltz Art & Crafts Fair to witness the top art & crafts shows by Sunshine Artist Magazine.
If you’re here from April to November, go for an adventurous hike on the Overlooking Mountain Trail. You can have fun at Windham Mountain by skiing, and later enjoy tackling slopes at Sawkill Family Ski Center in the Catskill Mountains.
Book Your Stay: Twin Gables of Woodstock
Book Your Stay: Woodstock Way Hotel
4. Kingston
Kingston is 101 mi (162.54 km) away from New York, and if you wish to go by road, it takes around two hours to reach. However, if you are curious about a town’s history and culture, visiting Kingston is a great idea. You can visit the historic Vanderbilt Mansion and learn about its incredible architecture and interior design.
Enjoy exciting skiing at Hunter Mountain with your partner. Then, visit George H. Freer Memorial Beach and bask in the sun with a great view. In the evening, you can get on the Hudson River Cruise and get a beautiful view of the shoreline.
Book Your Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Kingston
Book Your Stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Kingston
5. Skaneateles
Skaneateles is a quiet lakeside town sitting on the northern banks of Skaneateles Lake. It is a four-hour drive from New York City, with the best routes taking you on a scenic drive through parts of New Jersey as well. When you get to the town, you can kick back and relax and take in the natural beauty of the place.
Once you’ve recharged, check out the various attractions and activities. Take part in the Witches Walk held every October, or catch the Skaneateles Antique & Classic Boat Show in July. You can also book a day cruise on Skaneateles Lake. If you feel like chilling, check out the local pubs and breweries.
Book Your Stay: Mirbeau Inn & Spa - Skaneateles
Book Your Stay: Deer Run Lodging House
6. Corning
A city located over four hours from New York City, Corning is a wonderful destination for a couples’ weekend getaway. The distance between the cities spans 248.7 mi (400 km), allowing you to enjoy a scenic road trip with your partner.
Though a small city, Corning has plenty to offer. You can visit the Corning Museum of Glass and witness its stunning collection. Finger Lakes Wine Country is also a great attraction for couples who wish to sample local wine while admiring gorgeous scenery.
Book Your Stay: Radisson Hotel Corning
Book Your Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Corning Downtown
Book Your Stay: Rosewood Inn
7. Lake Placid
Lake Placid is a five-hour drive from New York City and offers stunning sceneries that make it worth the trip. Planning to spend your weekend here with your lover? If so, this place has plenty to offer, from outdoor activities to quaint cafes. You can enjoy the sights of the Adirondack Mountains, and there are also lots of cozy cabins here to complete the experience.
This village is particularly popular during the winter, and it has hosted two Winter Olympics. There is even a museum to commemorate these events, Lake Placid Olympic Museum, which you can enjoy exploring with your significant other.
Book Your Stay: Crowne Plaza Lake Placid by IHG
Book Your Stay: Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort
Book Your Stay: Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa
8. Auburn
Situated in the county of Cayuga in New York State, Auburn is 251 mi (404 km) away from New York City. It takes four and a half hours to get there by car. If you enjoy watching entertaining shows with your partner, you can head to Auburn Public Theater, where you can catch some plays and movies.
CJS Vineyards is a great place to visit if you are looking to sample locally made wines. You can also enjoy a tour around the vineyards to complete the experience.
Book Your Stay: Holiday Inn Auburn-Finger Lakes Region by IHG
Book Your Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Auburn
9. Syracuse
Syracuse is 247 mi (397.5 km) away from New York City, and it boasts plenty of attractions that are perfect for couples who wish to visit a city for the weekend. You can check out downtown Syracuse to enjoy some stunning views as you stroll through Onondaga Creekwalk.
Syracuse Suds Factory is great for when you and your partner want to unwind with some locally crafted ales. If you wish to know more about the history of one of the most popular waterways in the state, you can take your beloved to the Erie Canal Museum.
Book Your Stay: Residence Inn Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square
Book Your Stay: Courtyard Syracuse Downtown at Armory Square
Book Your Stay: Embassy Suites By Hilton Syracuse Destiny USA
10. Geneva
Variety of breakfast options, but some issues with cleanliness and limited availability of certain items
Reasonable pricing for a weekend stay, but a little high for a night
Convenient location near the lake, wine country, parks, and restaurants
Pool, hot tub, and breakfast included; some maintenance issues with gym equipment and room facilities
Situated about 268 mi (431 km) away from New York City, Geneva is ideal for weekend getaways as it offers lots to discover, from wineries to shopping spots. If you need your caffeine fix before starting your adventures, you and your partner can head to Monaco’s Coffee, which is located in a historic area in the city.
Downtown Geneva is perfect for shopping for some souvenirs. You can check out Belhurst Estate Winery to try out some local wines while you take in the grandeur of Belhurst Castle.
Book Your Stay: Hampton Inn Geneva
Book Your Stay: Vinifera Inn
11. Buffalo
If you are looking for a weekend destination away from the state capital, Buffalo might be the place for you. It is 373 mi (600 km) away from New York City, and it takes over 6 hours to get there by car.
While you are here, you and your partner can explore the unique architecture of the city structures. Buffalo boasts numerous National Historic Landmarks, such as Guaranty Building in the downtown area. You also should not miss trying the famous sponge candy, which consists of toffee and chocolate.
Book Your Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo/Downtown
Book Your Stay: The Mansion on Delaware Avenue
Book Your Stay: Courtyard by Marriott Buffalo Downtown/Canalside
12. Niagara Falls
Located 408 mi (656.6 km) away from New York City, Niagara Falls is one of the most popular destinations in the state. Here, you and your partner will have a great time taking in the breathtaking falls.
You can take a boat tour around the falls with the Maid of the Mist agency. If you enjoy exploring marine life, you and your significant other can enjoy a trip to the Aquarium of Niagara. Visit Castellani Art Museum to see some stunning collections of both old and modern art.
Book Your Stay: The Giacomo, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Book Your Stay: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino
13. Lake George
A small town three and a half hours away by car from New York City, Lake George is located in the Adirondack Mountains. It is an ideal destination for couples who seek an outdoorsy retreat for the weekend.
Adirondack Extreme Adventure Course is great for couples who wish to try exciting activities such as ziplining and other treetop adventures. For a unique experience, you can spend your day at Around the World Miniature Golf, which features courses that showcase famous landmarks from different countries.
Book Your Stay: Fort William Henry Hotel
Book Your Stay: The Inn at Erlowest
Book Your Stay: Surfside On The Lake
14. Ithaca
Healthy and delicious breakfast options, with the addition of a food truck for unexpected dining choices.
Reasonable pricing for glamping experience with breakfast included.
Conveniently located near hiking trails and Ithaca's beautiful parks and restaurants.
Well-maintained campground with cozy tents, clean bathrooms, and various on-site amenities like board games, firepits, and a camp store.
A four-hour drive from New York City, Ithaca is a great weekend destination for couples who enjoy exploring the outdoors. You and your partner can hike a short trail to see the stunning Ithaca Falls.
You can visit Buttermilk Falls State Park if you want to enjoy activities such as swimming and fishing. At the state park, you can also have a barbecue with your beloved using the facilities available on the premises. For some locally produced goods, be sure to drop by Ithaca Farmers Market.
Book Your Stay: Firelight Camps
Book Your Stay: Hilton Garden Inn Ithaca
Book Your Stay: La Tourelle Inn & Spa
15. Watkins Glen
The hotel's restaurant and bar offer delicious food, with breathtaking views of the lake.
Priced at $369/night, the hotel offers a beautiful and clean experience.
Conveniently located near Watkins Glen State Park and within walking distance to shops and restaurants.
The hotel features a pool, hot tub, fire pits, and a coffee bar on each floor.
Planning to go on a road trip with your partner for the weekend? Watkins Glen, a village 252 mi (405.5 km) away from New York City, is part of the Finger Lakes Region. Home to beautiful attractions such as Watkins Glen State Park, It offers couples the opportunity to indulge in numerous outdoor recreational activities.
For a more intimate experience, you can charter a sailboat and enjoy a tour around Seneca Lake. If you are both animal lovers, go ahead and check out Farm Sanctuary, which is home to about 100 animals.
Book Your Stay: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
Explore Upstate New York
Upstate New York is definitely worth the trip with your significant other. For a great adventure, check out the top romantic weekend getaways in Upstate New York.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data