New York State Weekend Getaway Ideas

One of the best things about New York is the variety of activities and attractions the state offers. Whether you want to city-hop down the I-90 or experience the beauty of rolling mountains and expansive forests, a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle is easy to plan. 

Weekends away from New York can take you to the peaks of the Adirondack Mountains, white water rafting through gorges, or even skydiving near Niagara Falls! If you’re trying to plan a fun weekend getaway, upstate New York is the place to go. Let’s talk about some of the top escapes in the Empire State! 

Western New York

As far as possibilities for a vacation in Upstate New York, our home at the Westernmost end boasts an embarrassment of riches. We have multiple cities to explore, history, art, and outdoor activities galore. 

Buffalo and Rochester offer wonderfully complementary experiences, and they’re both situated in what is considered Western New York – just a hop, skip, and jump from each other. Catch a Buffalo Bills game, try authentic Buffalo Wings, and visit Rochester’s Strong National Museum of Play. 

We also have one of the natural wonders of the world – Niagara Falls! Just standing near the thousands of gallons of water pouring over the cliffs is quite a rush, but you can elevate your visit with a ride on the Maid of the Mist, journeying behind the falls, or hiking the nature of Three Sisters Islands. Just don’t forget to wave hello to Canada while you’re there!

Of course, Western New York has some of the best adventuring you can find anywhere as well. Our wintery months have resulted in a robust skiing and snowboarding culture, with plenty of resorts to satisfy your cold weather habits. 

And your quest for adrenaline wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the sky! Western New York Skydiving is positioned to give you optimal views of Lake Erie, Lake Ontario, Niagara Falls, and the vast landscapes of upstate New York. Our state-of-the-art facilities will welcome you to our neck of the woods and show you everything Western New York has to offer – literally. You might be on vacation, but our family atmosphere will immediately make you feel like you’re at a home away from home. 

But we can’t take all the credit for excitement in New York – other areas of the state have a lot to offer, too!

Watkins Glen

Moving East, New York State begins to take on a shape of wonder. Central New York contains a plethora of lakes, including 11 exciting Finger Lakes, gorges, and forests. The area is rife with opportunities for fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and outdoor exploration. 

But one of the most exciting landmarks in this part of the state is Watkins Glen, home to a state park, waterfalls, and a race track that hosts NASCAR races! The Watkins Glen International is a NASCAR cup series that takes place in early August and brings fans from everywhere to the historical town. You can also get on the track yourself and try driving one of the high-powered cars they have to offer (with an instructor, of course).  

Watkins Glen is the perfect place to visit for a small-town feel with big adventure energy! 

Lake Placid Olympics

Closer to the Eastern half of the state you’ll find another haven of natural bliss and sporting fame. Lake Placid is a second location in Upstate New York that has something to offer for every type of individual. 

The village of Lake Placid is nestled in the heart of New York’s most famous mountains, the Adirondacks. With more than 100 peaks (46 of those being high peaks), Lake Placid is the perfect base camp for a hiking adventure or a stay on the waterfront. 

You can also explore the Olympic Center in Lake Placid to learn about the history of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics held there, take lessons in different winter sports, or view the Olympic Ski Jumping Complex. 

Lake Placid offers the perfect mix of worldly experience and backwoods relaxation.

Catskills 

The Catskills blend an old-world warmth with the excitement of nature’s ruggedness. They may not be as famous as the Adirondacks, but they sure are as exciting. Hidden gems abound throughout the peaks and valleys of this downstate mountain range, and the quaint towns and activities like hiking trails are enough to draw any traveler in with their charms. 

Spend a night at the historical Starlite Motel, a 1960’s motor lodge with access to outstanding hiking, skiing, biking, and climbing. Imagine yourself in the days of off-grid road travelers, exploring adventure towns, staying at boutique hotels, and taking in the scenery. Float down the Delaware River (the very same that George Washington crossed!) or follow the Hudson back to the city. 

And don’t miss a stop at the site of the famous Woodstock festival of 1969, where you can take in the museum and stroll the very same hill festival-goers slid down during the muddy concert days over 50 years ago. 

Ready to start your New York State vacation? Leap off the starting blocks by booking a tandem skydive in Western NY. Blue skies!