Still obsessed with Diane Keaton’s Hamptons House from “Something’s Gotta Give”
As much as we love the electric energy of New York City – my previous home of many years – summer in the concrete jungle can start to feel… sweltering. Luckily, a summer escape is just a train ride (or a traffic jam) away, near or far, fancy or low key. Whether you’re craving salt air, mountain air, or farm-to-table fare, here are some of the best places to escape NYC in the summer — and what they each offer in terms of vibes, views, and vacation magic.
The Hamptons: Coastal Glamour & Beach Club Energy
The ultimate city escape for the fashionably sun-kissed. From Montauk’s surfer-chic hotels and dive bars to the old-money charm of East Hampton, the Hamptons offer high-end beach days, designer shopping, rosé-all-day lunches, and sunset dinners overlooking the dunes.
- Stay: Ideally someone’s summer house 😉 But there are also many local boutique hotels, beach houses, and stylish inns (think: Marram Montauk or The Reform Club).
- Eat: Lobster rolls at Lunch, sunset cocktails at The Surf Lodge, or farm-to-table at Nick & Toni’s.
- Do: Lounge at Cooper’s Beach, browse the Parrish Art Museum, or hit the local farmers’ markets.
- Vibe: Where fashion editors and startup founders go to wear linen, tan, and network in disguise.
Hudson Valley: Artsy Towns, Vineyards & River Views
Just 1.5 to 2 hours north of the city by train or car, the Hudson Valley blends pastoral beauty with culture and creativity. From Cold Spring to Beacon to Hudson, you’ll find walkable towns full of antique shops, wine bars, and Instagram-worthy stays.
- Stay: Modern farmhouses, boutique inns, or cabins tucked into the woods.
- Eat: Seasonal menus at spots like The Maker or Bartlett House; plenty of wine and cider tastings too.
- Do: Visit Dia:Beacon, explore Storm King Art Center, kayak on the Hudson River, or wander lavender fields. Many towns have great antique shops too, local breweries/vineyards. Actors Paul Rudd and Jeffrey Dean Morgan are co-owners of Samuel’s Sweet Shop, a candy store in Rhinebeck, New York too
- Vibe: Country weekend for the design-conscious — with a glass of natural wine in hand.
The Catskills: Nostalgic Americana Meets Cool Creative Energy
The Catskills have made a major comeback — no longer just for summer camps and retro resorts. Now, it’s a haven for creatives, hikers, and wellness seekers who want mountain air without losing their Wi-Fi connection. and yes, Woodstock is here too which is a charming town of local art and dining.
- Stay: Retro-chic motels, A-frame cabins, or dreamy airbnbs (like Eastwind Hotel & Bar or Urban Cowboy Lodge).
- Eat: Upscale diner fare, wood-fired pizza, craft beer, and fresh-from-the-farm everything.
- Do: Go tubing on the Esopus Creek, hike Kaaterskill Falls, hit a flea market, or lounge by a fire pit.
- Vibe: Wes Anderson goes to the woods — stylish but laid-back.
Lake George & The Adirondacks: Fresh Air & Family Traditions
For a more rustic, nature-heavy escape, head to the Adirondack Mountains and Lake George, where you’ll find historic lodges, crystal-clear lakes, and a pace of life that’s delightfully unplugged.
- Stay: Cozy cabins, classic lake resorts, or glamping tents.
- Eat: Casual lakeside diners and local favorites like Adirondack Brewery.
- Do: Swim, boat, hike, roast s’mores — and breathe deeply.
- Vibe: Old-school summer vacation with a touch of grown-up nostalgia.
Fire Island: Queer Joy & Car-Free Summer Bliss
A beloved escape just a train and ferry ride away, Fire Island (especially Cherry Grove and The Pines) offers a strong LGBT community, dune paths, beach bars, pool parties, and a breezy, unbothered vibe that feels like pure summer freedom.
- Stay: Shared beach houses, mid-century homes, and cozy inns.
- Eat: Cocktails and seafood at Island Mermaid or Top of the Bay.
- Do: Beach all day, dance all night, repeat.
- Vibe: Inclusive, joyful, barefoot bohemia with a side of glitter.
Beaches You Can Reach by Subway in NYC
Don’t have time for a big getaway from the city? Don’t worry, you can jump on the subway to take you to any of these local spots.
- Coney Island Beach (Brooklyn)
- Subway: D, F, N, Q to Coney Island–Stillwell Ave
- Classic boardwalk, amusement rides, and Nathan’s hot dogs.
- Brighton Beach (Brooklyn)
- Subway: B, Q to Brighton Beach
- Quieter alternative to Coney, with Russian cafés and local charm.
- Rockaway Beach (Queens)
- Subway: A train to Rockaway Park–Beach 116th St or Beach 90th St
- Surfer-friendly, with taco stands and a great boardwalk vibe.
- Manhattan Beach (Brooklyn)
- Subway: Q to Sheepshead Bay, then bus B49
- Smaller, more relaxed beach near Brighton; family-friendly.
- Orchard Beach (The Bronx)
- Subway: 6 to Pelham Bay Park, then Bx29 bus
- Known as “The Riviera of the Bronx,” with views of Long Island Sound.
There’s no wrong way to summer outside NYC — whether you’re heading for a beach chair in Amagansett, a forest soak in Phoenicia, or a wine tasting in Rhinebeck, the goal is the same: to pause, breathe, and savor every golden hour. Just don’t forget your SPF… and maybe a weekender bag big enough for wine, books, and a backup outfit for wherever your escape takes you.
Carrie x
