After her four-month trip to the United States in 1947, Simone De Beauvoir wrote, 'There is something in the New York air that makes sleep useless.' You would agree that New York City, with all its charm and glory intact, can sometimes prove to be overwhelming. A weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city that never sleeps can be a rejuvenating experience for someone who spends the week shuttling between strict office timings, cramped apartments, and fast-paced subways.

　　Escaping to a quaint spot near the mountains, indulging in a wine-tasting experience, or taking a dip at lakes and beaches can be refreshing for New Yorkers, who rarely get the time to look beyond the towering buildings that constantly hound their lives.

　　Here's a list of seven accessible getaways from NYC:

　　Finger Lakes- The Oenophile Heaven

　　A four to five-hour drive from New York City, Finger Lakes offers wine-tasting excursions and wine tours at its innumerable vineyards and wineries. However, that's not all that the place has to offer. Enjoying the water is a must at Finger Lakes. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing through the lakes is an enjoyable experience that will help you come closer to nature. You can also choose to sit in silence beside a lake or a waterfall, something that you might miss in NYC. With a host of restaurants and lakefront hotel stays, you will certainly be taken care of.

　　The All-Season Berkshires

　　A jaunt to the Berkshires in any season won't disappoint you. From theatres, orchestras, spas, and wellness retreats to a plenitude of outdoor adventure and sports like hiking, fishing, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, the Berkshires will always keep you engaged. It's a harmonious blend of keeping you on the go while giving you your moments of solitude. Located around 225 km north of NYC, in western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut, the place provides scenic views, cultural museums, and artistic experiences. Making it a perfect destination for your weekend.

　　The Quiet, Fire Island

　　A rather significant spot for NYC's queer community, the Islands located between Great South Bay and the Atlantic Ocean could be the perfect spot for your weekend getaway. The car-free island is quite ironic to its neighbouring New York, which lies only three hours away (a 2.5-hour ride and 30-minute ferry). Clamming, sea combing, surfing, and playing tennis (which the locals enjoy) are some activities to do during your visit. If you want to peacefully bask in the sun and enjoy the quiet surrounding you, this is definitely your spot.

　　A Date With History At Manchester, Vermont

　　An escape to the Green Mountains would give your week the unexpected peaceful end that you never knew you could have as a New Yorker. With countless art galleries, cultural performances, local music, and orchestra, this place will also give you an interesting culinary experience with local foods combined with jet-setting meals. Shopping centres with designer outlets and local boutiques will make your trip fun. Take this four-and-a-half-hour drive from NYC to experience what Manchester, Vermont, has in store for you.

　　Be One With Nature At Cape May

　　A fabulous three-hour drive from New York City, Cape May is the Victorian wonderland with everything ranging from Dolphin watching and Alpaca farm visits to museums, state homes, and art galleries. The visit will bring you closer to fauna through bird-watching excursions and wildlife tours. Don't forget to wrap up your trip by climbing the Cape May lighthouse to experience a scenic view.

　　Camping At Cold Spring

　　Just an hour-and-a-half-long drive from NYC, pack your bags for a cool camping spot at Cold Spring. If you are drive-averse, taking a 1.5-hour long train is also a good option. With parks, farms, orchards, and campgrounds, the Hudson River village is a great spot amidst forests and by the river to spend a quiet weekend with your loved ones.

　　Cruising Down Lake George

　　Lake George, the queen of American lakes, is a three-and-a-half-hour drive from NYC. Giving you the slowdown that you need, it offers outdoor activities like parasailing adventures with waterfalls and adventure parks so you can spend an enjoyable weekend. Take a cruise down the historic Lake George to experience the serenity that it offers.