Where to relax from the New York bustle: 9 charming places in the tri-state

Looking for a way to escape New York without spending a lot of time and money? Relax locally! Edition NBC New York collected the best short-term vacation options in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.

Let's face it. Crowded, dynamic, and just perfectly balanced, New York City can be quite overwhelming at times. But near the city there are many beautiful and peaceful places where you can recuperate. Save to Notes:

State of New York

Woodstock

This city may seem familiar to you because of the Woodstock Music Festival, but the festival itself took place on the territory of the city of Bethel. However, the hippie culture of the 1960s found its home in Woodstock.

It is rich in history, unique art, great hiking trails, boutiques and bookstores. This eclectic town in the north of New York creates a cozy atmosphere filled with a variety of activities and a special character.

Woodstock can be reached by car from Midtown Manhattan in 2 hours.

On the subject: Top 14 Best Hiking Spots in New York State

Montok

This is the “end of the world” for New Yorkers 🙂 Montauk is the easternmost point of Long Island and the state of New York. Here you will find incredible beaches and views of the Atlantic Ocean. Busy social life, great restaurants, surfing, fishing, sailing and a picturesque beach town vibe make Montauk a great place for a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The drive from Midtown Manhattan to Montauk takes 3 hours and 20 minutes.

Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is a town in the Hudson Valley near New York City. Yes, that's what Washington Irving writes about in The Legend of Sleepy Hollow. Trip to Sleepy Hollow for the annual event “Great jack o'lantern blaze" or "Haunted Hayride” is a good way to diversify your experience and take your mind off the fears that can arise from a long stay in a crowded city. This place offers not only horror - there is beautiful nature, musical events and a rich history that attracts guests again and again every year.

You can drive here from Midtown Manhattan in less than an hour.

New jersey state

Montclair

Montclair is a picturesque city with a vibrant arts, theater and film scene, full of creativity and originality. Its lively center is ideal for shopping, dining and exploring the area. The annual Montclair Film Festival, a ten-day screening of films from various directors, attracts audiences from all over the world to enjoy original works of art.

You can drive from Manhattan to Montclair in 30-40 minutes.

On the subject: New Jersey Sunflower Farm Opens This Weekend: Pack Your Sunny Bouquet

Belmar

When it comes to Belmar - a beautiful town on the famous Jersey Shore - there are plenty of reasons to love it. This place has a cozy and beautiful city center, great beaches and fun nightlife in summer. Their long wooden promenade is the perfect place for pleasant walks and watching swimmers, swimmers and surfers.

You can get there from Midtown Manhattan in an hour and 20 minutes.

Vernon Township

If you want to escape the city and enjoy nature, then a trip to Vernon is the way to go. Here, outdoor enthusiasts will find many options: hiking trails, mountain biking, snowboarding and skiing. And don't forget to visit one of the most fun water parks in New Jersey - Mountain Creek Water Park. Hiking fans will appreciate the Stairway to Heaven on the Appalachian Trail. Vernon is a real paradise for lovers of outdoor activities.

Connecticut

MysticMystic is a small town full of special charm. This seaside town is home to the Mystic Aquarium and Mystic Seaport Museum, which are great places to visit with kids (or alone). The only beach in the city, Williams Beach Park, despite its small size, pleases visitors.

Mystic offers a variety of shopping and entertainment options, making it easy to find something to your liking.

You can drive from Midtown Manhattan to Mystic in 2 hours and 45 minutes.

On the subject: Fifteen places to go from New York City for the weekend

New Haven

Some may associate New Haven with Yale, but many know the city for its famed Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana. In addition to Yale and pizza, New Haven offers incredible tourist spots, including Lighthouse Point Park, stargazing at the Lightner Family Observatory and Planetarium, and climbing to the top of East Rock Park for great panoramic views of New Haven.

It takes 1 hour and 40 minutes to drive from Midtown Manhattan to New Haven.

Colebrook

Ready to change the walls of your apartment for a tent? Colebrook is surrounded by forests, mountains and streams, making it ideal for camping, hiking and exploring nature. This quiet town is ideal if you are looking for tranquility and want to reconnect with nature.

Colebrook has a population of less than 2000 residents, making it the perfect retreat from busy New York City.

Driving time from Midtown Manhattan to Colebrook is 2 hours 24 minutes.