NYC's 6 Best Autumn Staycations & Getaways
The gorgeous fall foliage in city parks combined with comfortable weather for walking are just a few reasons why we love staying in New York for a 'staycation' during the autumn months. Whether you're looking to play tourist for a day to explore our city or travel a few hours around the Tri-State area to relax, these seasonal city activities and mini getaways are your best bets to enjoy the season. By Sarah Shaker.
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Opening earlier this month, the Viceroy New York is Midtown's newest hotel with a chic downtown vibe. Since we first got word earlier this summer, we've been anticipating the opening of Kingside, Marc Murphy's bar and restaurant on the ground floor of the property. Book the Viceroy for a staycation weekend to escape your cramped apartment and dine on Kingside's New American cuisine. You'll feel like you're living in luxury with your own celebrity chef, if only for a night.
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If Whiskey warms your heart, make plans to escape to Atlantic City this fall for Beerfest on September 26 and 27. A Whiskey Dinner and Saturday Grand Tasting will be hosted by Masters of Whiskey Kevin Loser, Sean O'Rourke, Cheetah Fletcher and Peter O'Connor. You'll enjoy an exhilarating night of world class whiskey, cigars and turn of the century American fare. While you're at the Golden Nugget, check out Haven Nightclub to keep your AC evening exciting all night long on the dance floor.
The 110-year old historic UWS property kicks off the holiday season with a Thanksgiving Parade Package, perfect for locals and visitors alike. Experience the magic behind the scenes of the parade as character balloons take shape on Thanksgiving Eve, just walking distance from Hotel Belleclaire. This staycation package includes Deluxe Accommodations, Daily Continental Breakfast for two, a Shake Shake lunch valued at $50, Thanksgiving guide with balloon show information, parade map and nearby holiday dinner options and a Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade keepsake mascot.
Take a drive to Hudson River Valley to enjoy two great fall events at Millbrook Vineyards & Winery. They're hosting the 5th Annual Harvest Party Luncheon on October 18 from 12-4 p.m. In November, visit for their popular Grand Portfolio Tasting, the one time of year when their entire portfolio of wines will be available for sampling. This is a unique experience for wine lovers and Millbrook fans to taste and explore everything their winemaker, John Graziano, has to offer.
There's always something lively happening at Mohegan Sun. Hop in a car, train or bus for a two hour ride to this casino, concert venue and dining destination in Connecticut. This November, Keith Urban and Paramour will be playing at Mohegan Sun Arena. For the shopoholic, go to Fashion Fridays on September 12. There's also a newly launched package to celebrate turning 21 at Mohegan Sun, featuring discounts and giveaways for the birthday boy or girl toasting to this milestone.
For some peace and quiet, head upstate to the Finger Lakes Region, where you can explore via bike, boat, hot air balloon and glider. Take in some of the best fall foliage, due to the contrasting deep blue lakes against the colorful hills, rolling valleys and rocky gorges by biking along the Erie Canal Heritage Trail, America's most famous and influential man-made waterway or take a ride on the Schooner True Love with views of Seneca Lake. You can also float on Balloons Over Letchworth or hold on to the glider at Harris Hill for a fall adventure you won't forget.
Sarah Shaker is the founder of the blog Bright Lights, My City.
