The winter blues have officially set in and we’re all looking for a little something to look forward to. What better time to get away for some R&R than Valentine’s Day? Whether it’s a trip with your honey or a getaway with your besties, we could all benefit from a little cozy weekend escape come February. Or — better yet — give the gift of a weekend getaway this year! Mom, Dad, sister, boyfriend, wife…a Northeast escape is the perfect gift for ALL of your loved ones this February 14. Purchase one of EscapeMaker’s vacation packages via Amtrak or Metro North Railroad and present it as a gift on the big day. Or, allow us to offer some inspiration on cozy bed & breakfasts, sexy local restaurants and romantic outings within a few hours of NYC for you independent travel planners out there.
Venture out to Dutchess County in the gorgeous Hudson Valley. There are so many things to do and see, you’ll have to come back again and again. Check out some date ideas that won’t break the bank; get your cibo e vino fix in Mount Carmel, Poughkeepsie’s own “Little Italy”; wander around the historic & eclectic village of Millerton‘s antique shops, glass-blowing studios, retro milkshake counters and more.
Or, if you’re looking to hang onto that sweet New York apple goodness throughout the winter, hit one (or several!) of the amazing Hudson Valley cider and apple spirit makers! There’s also a statewide map of cider opportunities offered by the New York Apple Association, if you decide to venture further from New York City!
Sticking inside the magical Hudson Valley, go get your cultural buzz on in Westchester County — the Hudson River Museum, the Neuberger Museum of Art, and the Katonah Museum of Art offer special exhibits and extraordinary glimpses into the region’s history. Spend an afternoon with some artsy exploration and then enjoy a romantic waterfront dinner on the Hudson River. Try Sunset Cove in Tarrytown, Red Hat on the River in Irvington, or X2o Xaviers on the Hudson in Yonkers for breathtaking views and original cuisine unique to the Hudson Valley.
Known for its cozy atmosphere and heart-warming hospitality, Sullivan County proudly offers guides to romancing your sweetheart in the Catskills this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy one of the most romantic dinner dates in the Catskills at The Sullivan Hotel, The Arnold’s House, or The Emerald Ballroom; taste and explore the region’s fine spirits; and cozy up in a charming bed & breakfast.
You could also plan your romantic getaway to the beautiful, wintry Vermont region. Couples travel from all over to experience the magic of Vermont — and you can too! Explore one of the many classic, charming Vermont villages, which feature mountain backdrops and sprawling landscapes. Jump into your bathrobe and spend the weekend indoors at a quaint B&B, book yourself some “us-time” at a relaxing and romantic spa, explore the sweet maple flavors all over the state (which generates 42% of the country’s maple syrup!), or throw on your snow gear and get outside for some snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling.
Or, venture out to Long Island for a romantic winter weekend! Treat your loved one to a fabulous dinner at Eagle’s Nest at the elegant Vanderbilt Mansion, where Hollywood stars and European royalty dined with members of one of America’s most famous families. Visit one of Long Island’s famous lighthouses or film sites. Or, hop onto the Long Island craft beverage trail! With dozens of Long Island breweries, fifty wineries and a distillery that uses locally grow potatoes, there’s a drink of choice for everyone in LI!
You and your honey can also take advantage of a cozy weekend in the Finger Lakes at one of the many renowned wineries, breweries and cider makers in the area. In between your tasting adventures, cozy up at the Black Sheep Inn & Spa and take a little “us-time” with a Swedish couples massage.
Named one of America’s Most Romantic Towns by Travel + Leisure, Ithaca is a perfect destination for a Valentine’s getaway. Its sweeping scenery is the ultimate backdrop for you and your sweetheart — bundle up this February and explore the endless waterfalls (150+ within 10 square miles!) and gorges; reinvigorate your youthful spirit wandering around one of the many universities in the area; or take a stop off the Finger Lakes Beer Trail at one of the breweries that has popped up all over the town.
So whether you’re looking for a staycation in a B&B or an outdoor adventure, use this Valentine’s Day as an excuse to give the gift of the perfect escape for your significant other, family member or bff!
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