9 Romantic Getaways From New York: Best Trips for Couples

New York is a top location for couples who want to explore fine dining, culture, and recreation. The city’s bright lights and sparkling ambiance make the perfect backdrop for romance. With Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, and musical venues, there is no shortage of activity in the city that never sleeps. If you’re planning a romantic getaway in New York City, I have a guide for you.

However, sometimes you and your partner might want to connect away from home and forge adventures in fresh places. Whether you’re looking for verdant hiking trails or a quaint setting for a romantic stroll, there are plenty of options for a couples getaway from NYC. As a local to the area, I’ve curated a list of unforgettable trips. My guide has some of the most memorable weekend getaways for couples from NYC.

• Best for couples who love the suburbs - Princeton, New Jersey
• Best for foodies with adventurous tastes - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Best for antique and history enthusiasts - Old Saybrook, Connecticut

• Best for nature lovers looking for privacy - The Catskill Mountains
• Best for beachgoers with a taste for luxury - Sag Harbor
• Best for couples looking for spa getaways - Lake Placid

• Best for newlyweds looking for adventure - Niagara Falls
• Best for live music and marine-life enthusiasts - Charleston, South Carolina
• Best for fashionable couples who love nightlife - Miami, Florida

The Big Apple’s flash and pizzazz beckons couples from all over the globe. From skyline views to intimate picnics at Central Park, you can easily find a spot for a romantic interlude. Whether it's a proposal, anniversary, or just an escape from the stress of everyday life, there are opportunities to recharge your love life close to home.

If you’re looking for a way to unplug and invest in the moment, there are many destinations to ignite that romantic spark. When you want to make the most of your time together, you and your partner can find trendy eateries, lush panoramic views, and charming small towns fewer than two hours from New York. If you are looking for romantic getaways from NYC that require little travel, check out these day trip options.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Couples who love the suburbs
• ‌Highlights of Princeton:‌
  • Art museums & galleries
  • Scenic parks
  • Historic architecture and attractions

Princeton, New Jersey, is a suburban oasis for couples looking for a peaceful day trip. Stroll through historic Princeton or take a romantic bike ride through the tree-lined streets. The illustrious Princeton University has tours and rolling meadows for you and your loved one to pass the day in idle pleasure. Visit the Princeton Battlefield State Park for a taste of history.

Princeton is home to many picturesque parks. I recommend Marquand Park, which has peaceful spots for a romantic picnic. Turning Basin Park is great for kayaking and canoeing, while Community Park North has gorgeous trails for lovers to get lost in.

Art history enthusiasts should add The Morven Museum & Garden to their itineraries. This historical landmark has exhibitions with artifacts from the 19th century. It hosts special events year round. The docents are knowledgeable and engaging, so this mansion is a can’t-miss stop for history buffs. Bainbridge House is home to the Art@Bainbridge gallery, where guests can peruse distinguished exhibits.

It takes about two hours to drive from Manhattan to Princeton on I-95 South, making it the ideal locale for a day trip.

New Yorkers can also use mass transportation to get to Princeton. The Suburban Transit bus line from Port Authority to Princeton takes under two hours.

New Yorkers can hop on the New Jersey Transit Northeast Corridor line from Penn Station. This train will take you to Princeton Junction Station in about an hour. From there, hop on the Dinky, which will get you to downtown Princeton in under 10 minutes.

The Peacock Inn strikes the perfect balance between a charming bed-and-breakfast and a luxe hotel. This colonial-style mansion has an on-site restaurant with farm-to-table fare sourced from nearby farms. Couples can also enjoy the on-site fitness center, spa, and cocktail lounge.

This country cottage on Vrbo is an architectural gem in Princeton. It sits on 2.5 acres of private land, with gardens and an outdoor pool. This cottage is an Instagram-worthy setting for romantic weekend getaways.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Foodies with adventurous tastes
• ‌Highlights of Philadelphia:‌
  • Range of dining options
  • Convenient transportation
  • Romantic attractions

Philadelphia is at the top of my list for quick romantic getaways from NYC. With direct transportation from New York, you and your loved one can make a day trip or weekend trip to this fun city. Be sure to pick up a CityPASS, so you can explore Philly’s top attractions, for a fraction of the price.

Philadelphia has an enticing array of dining options for foodies to indulge in. The city offers several outstanding restaurants that span the city’s history. At the northwest end of Fairmount Park, you’ll find Valley Green Inn. The inn has a working fireplace and an intimate ambiance built for romance. The Good King Tavern serves bespoke cocktails and delectable French cuisine.

If you’re looking for something sweet after your visit to a local tavern, indulge in a homemade ice cream sandwich from Weckerly’s Ice Cream.

Philly also has romantic attractions tucked away for lovers to explore. Snap a picture in front of the LOVE sculpture at John F. Kennedy Plaza. Explore the attractions and food offerings at Cherry Street Pier.

A Love Letter For You is a romantic way to explore Philadelphia. Artist Steve Powers created this rooftop mural series, which showcases 50 love letters between 45th to 63rd Streets.

Philadelphia is a short two-hour drive from New York via I-95 South.

My favorite way to get to Philadelphia is by Amtrak’s Acela train. This train goes directly from Penn Station to Philadelphia. This train has luxe accommodations and will get you to Philly in about 70 minutes. You can also take NJ Transit from Penn Station to Trenton, New Jersey, and then transfer to the SEPTA train, which brings you to Philadelphia.

A few buses travel from New York to Philadelphia. Greyhound buses depart from Port Authority and drop off at the Philadelphia Bus Station. Flixbus leaves from 31st Street and 8th Avenue and takes you to the corner of 6th Street and Market Street.

The Franklin on Rittenhouse is an elegant romantic hideaway. This boutique hotel is an Instagram-worthy location, from its iconic red door to its Art Deco cocktail lounge. It has a vintage ambiance with a touch of modern elegance to inspire romance.

This fresh, funky condo on Vrbo is a great rental for couples looking for a breath of fresh air. Guest rooms have sweeping balcony views. It’s only a short walk from Philly’s dining and shopping scene.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Antique and history enthusiasts
• ‌Highlights of Old Saybrook:‌
  • Kayaking and canoeing
  • Antique shopping
  • Cozy brunch spots

New England has a memorable backdrop of picturesque scenery with vivid colors year-round. While Massachusetts is a popular spot for tourists, Old Saybrook in Connecticut has the same charm with a shorter travel distance. This seaside town has charming clapboard houses, a quaint Main Street, and plenty of history.

Because of its location on Long Island Sound, much of the warm-weather activity in Old Saybrook revolves around the shore. Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities as you venture out into the coves on the eastern side of town, or into the mouth of the Connecticut River beyond.

If you and your partner are looking for romantic brunch or dinner spots, check out the elevated seafood fare at Fresh Salt. Cocotte and Mirsina’s Restaurant are cozy eateries where you can enjoy coastal hospitality and appreciate great food.

Old Saybrook has a thriving historical and antique scene. If you’re looking for authentic antiques to add to your home collection, stop by Essex Saybrook Antiques Village or The Trove. If you and your partner find romance in old films, visit the Katharine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center. This museum is a tribute to the Hollywood starlet’s illustrious career and also hosts live performances that would top off any date night.

From either Brooklyn or New York, Old Saybrook clocks a two-hour travel time. Take I-95 North for a scenic drive past upstate New York and through New England. The short travel time makes it a prime location for a romantic day trip.

From Penn Station, you can take the Northeast Regional line to Old Saybrook, which takes about two and a half hours.

The Saybrook Point Resort and Marina has the most romantic accommodations in the area. With amenities like a spa, sauna, hot tub, outdoor pool, and fitness center on the premises, this hotel offers an experience of laid-back luxury.

This idyllic beach house on Vrbo has ocean views and sits near two private beaches. For a romantic evening, you can gather around the fire pit and watch the sunset over a bottle of champagne. The beachfront property is near Old Saybrook’s major attractions.

While a New York staycation can inspire romance and intrigue, sometimes it’s refreshing to leave the energy of the city behind to focus on your partner. Whether you’re in the mood for a spontaneous escape or a planned break from routine, there are quite a few weekend getaways for couples from NYC.

If natural beauty inspires you and your sweetheart to romance, there are plenty of nature reserves that are sure to entice. For privacy-minded couples, there are troves of restful oases where you can reconnect. These weekend getaways for couples from NYC have enchanting backdrops for your next passionate interlude.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Nature lovers looking for privacy
• ‌Highlights of the Catskill Mountains:‌
  • Picturesque scenery
  • Privacy and seclusion
  • Horseback riding and camping

Often described as America’s original frontier, the Catskills are an excellent rural getaway destination in upstate New York. Couples looking for some time together can escape to this pastoral corner of New York State and spend a weekend in seclusion. Amid the picturesque mountains, rolling valleys, covered bridges, and quaint villages are romantic resorts that offer privacy.

The Catskill Mountains are a natural oasis for high-impact romantic adventures during every season. The Mohonk Preserve protects almost 7,000 acres of the Shawangunk Mountains while giving you public access to climbing and hiking trails. Warmer months of spring and summer afford for dips in some of the nation's best swimming holes. In the winter, ski lodges offer ample opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Just about a half-mile from the Giant Ledge parking area, the natural spa of Otter Falls awaits. Strap on some closed-toed shoes and work your way down the tiny trail toward your reward — a waterfall spilling 30 feet down into the basin below. The basin's 30-foot diameter and 8-foot depth makes it the perfect size for an intimate swim.

Some 300 miles of trail wind through the Catskill Park, leading to secluded spots where you can enjoy a peaceful getaway in wilderness surroundings. Horseback riding is a romantic outdoor experience. For fans of the outdoors, there are ample spots to camp under the stars at one of the rustic campgrounds.

From Penn Station, you can take a two-hour train ride on Amtrak to Hudson, NY. The Trailways Bus line has a stop at Catskill Park & Ride.

I recommend taking the 2.5-hour drive along 1-97 North, so you can watch the scenic views of the Hudson Valley pass by.

Mohonk Mountain House is a historic resort overlooking Lake Mohonk. The grounds of Mohonk have European gardens flush with flowers — perfect for a moonlit stroll with your beloved. The Mohonk Mountain House allows you to pamper that special someone with the same luxurious surroundings that once catered to tycoons including John D. Rockefeller and Andrew Carnegie.

This Airbnb treehouse is the perfect nature-inspired setting for your romantic getaway. This contemporary watchtower has a rooftop deck with panoramic views of the Hudson Valley. Couples can luxuriate in the rental’s private sauna.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Beachgoers with a taste for luxury
• ‌Highlights of Sag Harbor:‌
  • Fine dining
  • Luxury accommodations
  • Boat and yacht charters

The Hamptons in Long Island, New York have a reputation as a collection of wealthy enclaves with beautiful, private beaches that attract New York City’s wealthiest residents. Sag Harbor offers couples the upscale beach experience of Montauk, but at a shorter distance. Sag Harbor features waterfront resorts, secluded vacation homes, and quaint bed and breakfasts.

If you're visiting this popular seaside enclave, take advantage of the sun and surf. Havens Beach has a laid-back vibe. If you and partner enjoy seafaring recreation, you can charter a yacht from Hamptons Boat Rental.

There are plenty of beaches and coves for couples to go kayaking and canoeing. Guests are within walking distance of the beach and historic village, where they can take quiet walks or enjoy romantic sunsets.

Sag Harbor also has elevated fine-dining experiences with a romantic atmosphere. Make reservations at Italian showstopper Tutto Il Giorno, for a date night steeped in chic sophistication and delicious cuisine. I recommend the creamy burrata starter followed by the flavorful branzino.

The Beacon’s summer pop-up has a lively social scene and waterfront views that can’t be missed.

Sag Harbor is about a three-hour drive from Manhattan on I-495 East. If you’re driving, check local traffic reports, as this route can be crowded in the summer months.

On the South Fork of the Long Island, the Hamptons Jitney travel between Manhattan and Sag Harbor. Travelers can also take the Montauk Branch train from Penn Station to East Hampton. From there, you can‌ transfer to the East Hampton Long Island Railroad, which stops in Sag Harbor.

The Sag Harbor Inn has a romantic, waterfront ambiance. This boutique hotel resides in an optimal location for shopping on Main Street, strolling the historic village, visiting art galleries, and stopping by museums. Sag Harbor Inn strikes the perfect balance between laid-back relaxation and bustling beachfront activity.

This country home on Airbnb is in the heart of Sag Harbor’s historic village. The backyard is complete with an outdoor firepit. Couples can enjoy the open space of the property against a memorable backdrop of natural beauty while swimming in the outdoor pool.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Couples looking for spa getaways
• ‌Highlights of Lake Placid:‌
  • Luxury spas
  • Ski slopes
  • Breathtaking views year-round

This picturesque upstate village settled in the Adirondack Mountains boasts a quaint downtown and several luxury spa resorts. For a relaxing afternoon, the Spa at Mirror Lake Inn has an impressive menu of treatments designed to melt stress away.

Lake Placid is a romantic destination, whether you're camping or staying in a luxury hotel. Surrounded by lofty peaks and situated on the shores of Mirror Lake below Lake Placid in northern New York, the village offers lakeside dining and moonlit strolls. Snowy winters encourage intimate evenings in front of the fireplace. Cool summers provide an opportunity to take a leisurely paddle around the lake.

What attracts many visitors to Lake Placid is the wide range of outdoor activities that are available in the area. Couples who enjoy athletic pursuits can check out the high-impact activities at the Olympic Ski Jump Complex. Lake Placid is also home to ski slopes, where couples can add cross-country skiing and snowboarding to their itineraries.

Lake Placid is about a five-hour road trip from Manhattan on I-87 North. We recommend driving, as it's the most direct route and it will give you the chance to bask in the Adirondack scenery.

High Peaks Resort is perfect for couples looking for rustic-chic accommodations in the Adirondacks. With options for guest rooms with lake and mountain views, this property allows couples to ensconce themselves in nature. Indulge in a massage from the on-site spa, rest in the luxe guest rooms, or sign up for one of the wellness experiences the resort curates for their guests.

This eco-friendly Airbnb cabin has a cozy setting, so couples can unplug from the everyday and find balance. This bungalow rental has a Scandinavian architectural design with bright, open spaces. Since it's between Lake Placid and Saranac Lake, couples have more opportunities to explore their surroundings.

Few things are more tantalizing than flying off to an exotic destination for a romantic getaway. Whether your love is new or has been established for decades, embarking on a getaway with just the two of you can truly enhance the romance.

The best couples getaways from NYC offer chances to explore a variety of attractions together. If your idea of a romantic vacation involves soaking in a hot tub, strolling a secluded beach, or visiting wine country, the East Coast has many places that are perfect for stealing away.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Newlyweds looking for adventure
• ‌Highlights of Niagara Falls:‌
  • Casinos
  • Sightseeing
  • Vineyard tours and wine tastings

Niagara Falls is a well-known destination for honeymooners. You can't take a romantic trip to Niagara Falls without going to see the falls, so climb up to Cave of the Winds to get a close-up look at Bridal Falls. If you'd prefer less climbing and more soulful gazing into each other's eyes, book a cruise on the Maid of the Mist steamboat.

While visiting the majestic Niagara Falls is an awe-inspiring experience, camping near the falls is an equally thrilling adventure. Travelers desiring camping sites near Niagara Falls can choose from four campgrounds in Provincial Ontario within 6 miles of this natural attraction.

On both the U.S. and Canadian sides, the area offers travelers many options for sightseeing, playing at the casino, or enjoying local cuisine. Niagara Falls is home to three casinos, which offer entertainment and excitement for visiting couples. Make reservations for a sunset meal at Skylon Tower. The French-inspired fare is well executed, but it's the 365-degree view from the revolving restaurant's 775-foot-high panoramic windows that's really romantic. The Niagara SkyWheel is a romantic spot to observe the dazzling views from 175 feet above the falls.

Wineries dot the landscape around Niagara Falls, so plan to take part in a tasting. For couples who want to sample the local offerings, all Niagara Falls vineyards offer wine tours and tastings. Château des Charmes has romance and engagement packages at its vineyard for couples who want an elevated experience.

A nonstop flight from New York City to Buffalo Niagara International Airport takes only 90 minutes, and the airport is close to downtown Niagara Falls.

You don't need a passport if you're visiting the United States side of the falls in New York. But if plans include visiting the Canadian side, you'll need to be prepared to show travel documents upon both entering and leaving Canada.

For a bed-and-breakfast entrenched in history and paranormal activity, look no further than Graestone Manor. This spooky Victorian mansion is along the Niagara Wine Trail on the New York side of the falls. One owner is a psychic medium who leads on-site paranormal investigations. This is the perfect location for couples who love spooky and unexplained phenomena.

This Airbnb apartment has a prime location near Niagara Falls, on the Canadian side. With a lush garden oasis and heated pool, it offers privacy for couples. It has proximity to restaurants, casinos, and nature preserves, so you can save on transportation costs.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Live music and marine-life enthusiasts
• ‌Highlights of Charleston:‌
  • Walkable city
  • Delectable Southern cuisine
  • Local attractions
  • Live music

Set against a backdrop of Colonial-era architecture, towering church steeples, Spanish-moss-draped live oaks and cobblestone streets, Charleston provides an idyllic setting for couples looking for romance. Whether you seek a weekend getaway or a honeymoon destination, this southern city charms with its historic architecture, memorable cuisine, romantic beaches, and relaxed atmosphere.

The barrier islands that surround Charleston, South Carolina boast an enchanting mix of northern Atlantic marine life, ancient fossilized remains, and rippling underwater topography. You can explore Charleston’s topography on a romantic dinner cruise. Charleston Dinner Cruises hosts sunset rides, where you and your loved one can connect.

Charleston displays its southern history with historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries adorning downtown. For a unique experience, join Ghost Tour Charleston, where you can learn about local supernatural lore.

The city is also one of the nation’s top golf destinations. Thanks to the pleasant weather, the golf courses are open year-round.

Charleston is also a premier site for live music. From outdoor musical festivals to indoor venues like Charleston Music Hall, there’s something for everyone’s music taste.

You can hop on a plane in Manhattan and be at Charleston International Airport in two hours.

Fans of the opulence of the Gilded Age will enjoy staying at Wentworth Mansion. This historical landmark is at the pinnacle of Southern hospitality, offering homemade chocolates and an on-site restaurant, Circa 1886. Couples can enjoy a glass of champagne on the rooftop cupola or partake in one of the manor’s exclusive experiences.

This trendy cottage on Vrbo has a lush garden oasis where couples can enjoy peace and quiet. It’s only a few miles away from the hustle and bustle of Charleston’s attractions, so you won’t miss out on all the fun and excitement that beckons from the city.

• ‌Perfect for:‌ Fashionable couples who love nightlife
• ‌Highlights of Miami:‌
  • Vibrant nightlife
  • Thriving arts and cultural scene
  • Instagram-worthy scenery

With all of its glitz and glamour, Miami is a haven for couples looking to be dazzled aesthetically as they bask in the tropical climate. With sizzling beaches, visually stunning nightclubs, and rich opportunities for adventure, Miami has a little something for every couple.

As a fashion hub, this city offers high-end boutique shopping experiences. Miami’s Design District is a creative hub where couples can peruse the ware of local artisans and luxury jewelers. Sports fans can cheer on Miami Heat, the Miami Dolphins, and the Miami Marlins at the city’s sports complexes.

Take a break from people and spend some time meeting and interacting with charming sea life, including famously playful dolphins. One of the most sought-after local attractions is swimming with dolphins at the Miami Seaquarium.

Miami’s vibrant nightlife allows you to immerse yourself in the city’s high-energy attractions. In South Beach, Ocean Drive and Lincoln Road have energetic club scenes. Music artists and DJs often perform at these venues, so you can enjoy the latest beats while sipping a cocktail and dancing with your partner.

Miami is a quick three-hour flight from New York. Take a direct flight from Manhattan to Miami International Airport to maximize your time there.

For a taste of Miami’s culture, history, and Art Deco architecture, I recommend The Marlin Hotel. This renovated historical gem was once a music studio where the likes of Aerosmith and Jay-Z recorded hits. Located in the heart of Miami’s shopping and dining district, this location can’t be beat.

This Airbnb villa in Miami is set for peaceful seclusion and thoughtful romance. Curl up in the hot tub for an evening of love under the stars. With a luxe kitchen and outdoor grill, you and your partner can choose to stay in for an intimate meal before heading out to the nearby clubs.

This list curates alluring destinations that will entice couples with all ranges of interests. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway close to the Big Apple or a plane ride away, you can find a destination for every taste. There are idyllic small towns, breathtaking mountain views, and private beaches to explore.

I hope these suggestions help you and your partner craft an unforgettable romantic getaway. If you’re planning a romantic staycation in the Big Apple though, be sure to check out our guide to romantic getaways in New York.