Cool Off in Style at These Chic Getaways Just Outside NYC
Some say the best thing about living in NYC is coming back to it. To truly appreciate the hustle and bustle, you need a little time away—only then can you see the city for what it really is. And what better time to get out of New York than summertime? When the humidity rises, there are plenty of options just a short distance from our beloved city. Whether you’re looking for woods or waves, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite summer escapes—all perfect for that sweet return to the city.
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Camptown
One of the great things about Camptown is how accessible it is to us city dwellers. You don’t need a car to get there—in just a two-hour train ride (plus an 11-minute Uber), you’ll find yourself at this restored motor lodge tucked into a peaceful, forested area. And though you’ll feel like you’re finally off-grid, Hudson is just a short distance away if you suddenly feel the urge to remind yourself that you’re still a city person. You may not want to, though—you’ll have everything you need at Camptown. From their outstanding Mexican restaurant, Casa Susanna, to their dreamy and secluded pool club and sauna, Camptown is an ideal combination of escape and accessibility—one that New Yorkers can easily flock to.
That being said, don’t be surprised if you run into someone you know—there’s a certain level of social scene to the space. But don’t worry—we’re all getting away for the same reasons. Camptown’s isolated, hilly grounds also make it the perfect place to unplug if you’d rather see no one at all.
810 Co Rd 23B, Leeds, NY; (518) 719-0097
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The Maker
Just across the river from Camptown, you’ll find Hudson’s The Maker. A decidedly un-country upstate escape, The Maker attracts just as many New Yorkers as Camptown—though for very different reasons. The interior design is a defining element: the vibe is moody and chic, with details spanning from Art Deco to Mid-Century Modern. Founded by the team behind beauty brand Fresh, the hotel offers only 11 rooms, so make sure to plan ahead—otherwise, The Maker is equally worth visiting for its all-day café serving freshly baked pastries from Bartlett House, or its upscale, weekends-only restaurant.
Our favorite, though? The back bar at The Maker is sexy, low-lit, and swathed in velvet—ideal for a dreamy nightcap or a romantic pre-dinner cocktail.
302 Warren St, Hudson, NY; (518) 509-2620
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INNESS
The grounds at INNESS are sprawling—spread across 220 acres, it’s an easy place to feel like you’ve truly unplugged. In the middle of this sea of secluded, rolling hills, you’ll find a minimalist, Scandinavian-chic respite, consisting of both duplex cabins and a 12-room farmhouse with some of the best dining in the Catskills.
And while the restaurant is top-tier, you won’t want to wine and dine your time away—there’s also a nine-hole golf course, tennis courts, a pool, a spa, Adirondack chairs surrounding a fire pit, a giant teepee, and walking trails aplenty. There’s so much to do at INNESS, you’ll feel like you’re in a world of your own—yet it’s just a two-hour drive away. Exactly the kind of summertime escape New Yorkers live for.
10 Banks St, Accord, NY 12404
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TOURISTS
Yes, we love the Catskills. But there’s also the Berkshires! Just as accessible from the city as its counterpart, this region of western Mass is equally idyllic—and refreshingly less New York-ified. TOURISTS—a renovated sixties motor lodge—is easily the most stylish place to stay if you’re looking to explore the area.
The five partners behind TOURISTS include John Stirratt, bassist for the band Wilco—and it shows. There’s a country-tinged style to both the aesthetic of the space and, yes, the music. Each room has a carefully curated playlist connected to in-room speakers. But your love for TOURISTS will go far beyond the rooms. The restaurant is Michelin-listed, and the grounds are expansive—including a suspension bridge over the Hoosic River, walking trails, sculptures, and a pool.
And with MASS MoCA just a short drive away, there’s plenty to do—the perfect place to play “tourist,” a mere three hours from home.
915 State Rd, North Adams, MA; (413) 347-4995
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The Hedges Inn
If you’re looking for something a little more beachy to suit your summertime mood, the Hamptons is a no-brainer. The Hedges Inn in East Hampton only opened this year—but its history goes back much further. Originally built in 1870, the newly renovated space retains its Victorian charm under the careful guidance of the team behind the ultra-chic Colony Hotel in Palm Beach.
With just 13 rooms, a stay at The Hedges feels intimate and curated—think sunny bed-and-breakfast vibes at the edge of a perfectly manicured garden. And make sure you don’t miss out on a visit to Swifty’s: the same restaurant central to Palm Beach has made an equal impression on the Hamptons crowd—and for good reason.
74 James Ln, East Hampton, NY; (631) 324-7101
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Marram
If The Hedges isn’t beachfront enough for you, head to the eastern end of Montauk. Marram takes its name from the beach grass that surrounds it—your first clue as to how beach-centric this property really is. You’ll find most guests at this hotel happily remain barefoot as they go from sand to surf to pool.
The style at this 96-room property is understandably rattan-heavy and casual-chic, with so many activities you may not know where to start. From yoga to salt cave therapy to surf lessons to tarot card readings, Marram is an easy place to vacation—with an emphasis on health and wellness: activities over alcohol.
But if you’re looking for cocktails by the pool, you’ll find that too. And make sure you hit up Mostrador, Marram’s impressively elevated counter-service spot offering light, satisfying fare—with ocean views to boot.
21 Oceanview Terrace, Montauk, NY; (631) 668-2050
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Surf Lodge
An old standby at this point, Surf Lodge continually draws Manhattanites to its premises for both the surf and the scene. During the day, you’ll find chill, Tulum-esque beach vibes—but come nightfall, the party begins. Every summer, the musical lineup dictates the dance party—icons like Jimmy Buffett, Willie Nelson, and Wyclef Jean have all played here—and though hotel guests get complimentary access to the performances, show tickets can cost up to $300.
The festivities bring a crowd that can last until the early morning hours, so if you’re looking for rest over play, be sure to book a room farthest from the bar area so you can properly reset before your return to the city.
183 Edgemere St, Montauk, NY; (631) 483-5045
WORDS Hillary Sproul
PHOTOGRAPHY marrammontauk.com