10 Ideal Upstate New York Destinations for a 3-Day Weekend in 2025
Recharging on a long weekend getaway can look different for many people. Some people crave an adventurous hike through new terrain, while others prefer a slower pace with a cozy meal. Perhaps reconnecting and discovering new art and history is what keeps our spirits lively. Fortunately, upstate New York offers countless ways to rejuvenate your spirit. So kick back and relax as we explore ten ideal destinations for the perfect weekend getaway.
Saratoga Springs
In Saratoga Springs, you’ll find no shortage of activities to fill a long weekend! Known for its vibrant arts scene, rich culture, and world-famous horse racing events, this charming destination offers something for everyone. Start your stay at Hotel Brookmere and Harbor Spa, your home away from home, set on nearly ten acres of natural beauty.
Just ten minutes away, explore Congress Park, where you can sample the city’s famed mineral springs and soak up their refreshing health benefits. When hunger strikes, stop by Boca Bistro, a Spanish tapas restaurant serving up delicious bites. And if art and history are more your vibe, visit the Saratoga Springs History Museum to browse their year-round exhibits and gain a deeper appreciation for the history of Spa City.
Lake Placid
If stunning mountain views are your vibe, then Lake Placid is the perfect spot for your next weekend getaway! Right in the middle of the famed Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid offers breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for adventure. To make the most of your stay, check into The Interlaken Inn, a charming Victorian-style accommodation complete with cozy fireplaces and delicious fare.
For a dose of history, stop by the Lake Placid Olympic Museum to learn about the city’s legacy as a two-time Winter Olympics host and the remarkable athletes who once competed here. When hunger strikes, head to The Cottage Cafe for stunning views of Mirror Lake and a menu of hearty pub-style bites paired with a great selection of local beers. And if relaxation is more your style, unwind at the Mirror Lake Inn and Spa, where you can enjoy salt therapy, a swim, or a rejuvenating salon treatment that will leave you feeling pampered and renewed.
Alexandria Bay
A castle in America may seem unusual, but not in Alexandria Bay. Located among New York’s famous Thousand Islands, this charming destination offers scenic waterfront views and a touch of history. Boldt Castle is a must-see attraction, accessible only by boat, with fascinating stories about the millionaire who built it for his wife. Since 1962, Cavallario’s Steak House has been serving delicious steaks and seafood, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.
Alexandria Bay also hosts plenty of events throughout the year. If you’re visiting in July, check out the Boldt Castle Fireworks Show for a memorable Fourth of July celebration. For a comfortable stay, consider the 1000 Island Hart House on Wellesley Island, just a 16-minute drive away, where you’ll find a boutique bed-and-breakfast experience with plenty of character.
Cape Vincent
Another perfect place to recharge along the 1000 Islands is Cape Vincent. This river town is filled with historic landmarks and a rich past waiting to be explored. Start your stay at Angel Rock Cottages and Vacation Homes, your home away from home, offering cozy amenities like a fireplace and a seasonal heated swimming pool.
Dive into local history at the Cape Vincent Historical Museum, where a fascinating collection of artifacts tells the story of the town’s heritage. No visit to Cape Vincent is complete without a stop at Tibbetts Point Lighthouse, a historic landmark marking the entrance of the St. Lawrence River from Lake Ontario. When hunger strikes, Captain Jerry’s Tiki Bar is the place to be, serving up a delicious array of seafood, steak, and chicken dishes sure to satisfy.
Ithaca
For a dose of beautiful outdoor scenery, Ithaca is the ideal destination. With plenty of access to nature and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to recharge for the weekend, no matter the season. For a bed-and-breakfast-style stay, check out the Argos Inn, housed in a 19th-century mansion with close access to local sights and amenities.
Stroll through the renowned Cornell University on one of its walking tours and take in the surrounding lake and gardens. On weekends, the Ithaca Farmers Market comes alive with fresh produce and more than 85 local vendors to explore. After all that adventuring, unwind at August Moon Spa, where personalized treatments and top-quality products ensure pure relaxation.
Cooperstown
Baseball fans will be delighted to visit Cooperstown, known as America’s Hometown. For a dose of American culture, this welcoming town offers a wealth of things to explore. Stay at the Landmark Inn, set in an 1865 mansion, where you’ll find top-notch service and classic hospitality. A visit to Cooperstown wouldn’t be complete without stopping at the National Baseball Hall of Fame, featuring legendary players and their stories brought to life.
Just one mile outside of Cooperstown, stop in to The Art Garage, which showcases the work of local artists, creating a space for the community to connect through art. When it’s time to eat, Origins Café serves locally grown food in a unique greenhouse setting, with a mission to inspire positive change through food.
Skaneateless
A lively downtown and a stunning blue lake are what characterize Skaneateles. A weekend recharge here will leave you feeling refreshed and exhilarated as you explore all this beautiful village has to offer. Take in the sights with a stay at 2W Lake, where you’ll enjoy amazing views of Skaneateles Lake and easy access to plenty of shopping.
Clover’s Café serves up classic breakfast favourites and is a hot spot seven days a week. A walk through the movie-like scenery wouldn’t be complete without a pastry from Patisserie, known for breads, cookies, and cakes that satisfy any sweet tooth. And of course, no trip to Skaneateles is complete without taking in the surrounding nature at Clift Park. Think blue waters, gardens, and a fountain that all create the perfect relaxed vibe to slow down and soak it all in.
Aurora
On to another lakeside village: Aurora! This inviting spot offers plenty to see and do, while providing the perfect lakeside view. The Inns of Aurora Resort and Spa feature historic inns where you can reconnect and recharge away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Rich in art and culture, Aurora is also home to the renowned MacKenzie-Childs, where you can browse handcrafted home décor to bring a piece of your trip back with you.
The Aurora Brewing Company offers a refreshing selection to sip on while overlooking the Finger Lakes, along with classic starters such as pretzels with cheese and fried dill pickle spears. The village also boasts numerous surrounding parks and outdoor facilities, including Long Point State Park, which offers opportunities for picnicking, fishing, and boating, allowing you to enjoy life by the water.
Watkins Glen
Waterfalls and winding down await in Watkins Glen! Get ready to be amazed by stunning outdoor views in this village, perfect for the ultimate recharge. The Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel welcomes guests throughout the year, offering spectacular views of Seneca Lake. Hike the Gorge Trail at Watkins Glen State Park and admire the cascading waterfalls and winding creeks along the way.
Since 1955, Curly’s Family Restaurant has been serving cozy favourites like spaghetti, steak sandwiches, and scallops, making it an ideal stop after a day outdoors. And for a dose of animal therapy, head to Farm Sanctuary, where you can meet rescued farm animals from May to October and learn more about their stories.
Woodstock
Woodstock, New York, is best known for the iconic 1969 music festival, but there’s so much more to explore in this cultural landmark of a town. Tinker Street serves as the main hub for unique shopping finds and vintage treasures to bring home. Just an hour outside of Woodstock, the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts offers a comprehensive look at the Woodstock Festival, showcasing artifacts and personal accounts that make the trip well worth it.
The Garden Café focuses on community and dishes up organic vegan meals that are sure to satisfy. When it’s time to unwind, settle in at Twin Gables, an artsy boutique hotel on Tinker Street with plenty of creative energy to round out your full Woodstock experience.
Our journey through these ten places in upstate New York has shown the immense variety waiting to be explored. Gorgeous outdoor scenery, cultural landmarks, historical sites, and serene spa experiences offer just a preview of its diversity. The next time you need a recharge, remember what upstate New York has to offer and take the time to pour into yourself. No matter where you choose to go, you’ll come away with lasting memories.
