The Great Escape: Amazing Vacation Rentals Close to NYC

published May 31, 2017
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(Image credit: HomeAway)

Getaway. Escape. Whatever you want to call it. Your summer vacation need not be an extravagant European adventure in order to be relaxing. In fact, it’s better if it isn’t. When you really need to take a break from city life, you probably want something close, affordable and, above all else, like a home away from home.

These 5 vacation rentals fit the bill, if you’re a New Yorker. Each one of these getaways is no more than a couple hours’ drive from the city, and the perfect place to call home for a weekend (or more!).

An Upstate GeoDome

Location: Woodridge, NY
Travel time: 2 hours
Estimated rate: $350/night

Located on a farm in the southern Catskills, this geometric yurt home can be yours for a weekend (or more!). You’ll have to BYOB (bring your own bed), but there are plenty of extra amenities on the 12-acre property, like goats, bunnies, an outdoor kitchen, and a clawfoot tub under the stars. Book it on Airbnb.

An Insta-Worthy Bungalow

Location: Accord, NY
Travel time: 2 hours
Estimated rate: $325/night

Let your vacation self be your best self by laying down in this impeccably-decorated 1930’s bungalow upstate. Sneak five to seven of your best friends into this “Scandinavian chic” home and enjoy your days exploring nearby towns, and spend the nights cooking up masterful spreads in the renovated kitchen. Book it on HomeAway.

A Sailboat that Sleeps Two

Location: Stamford, CT
Travel time: 1 hour
Estimated rate: $95/night

For those folks who want to imagine what life might have been like if they’d chose the open seas over a walk-up apartment, here’s a charming 1966 yacht for rent. The boat has to stay docked, per Airbnb’s rules, but the hosts are willing to take you on a “captained charter” per request. But even if all you do is enjoy the wood-burning fireplace on the boat, or the nearby restaurants and brewery, it’ll be a vacation to remember. Book it on Airbnb.

An Historic Victorian Dollhouse

Location: West Cornwall, CT
Travel time: 2.5 hours
Estimated rate: $185/night

New York Magazine has given their stamp of approval to this vacation rental, an historic 1870’s victorian home boasting a rustic kitchen, adjacent creek and close access to restaurants, antiques and a summer farmer’s market (right across the street). Book it on Airbnb.

A Storybook Cottage

Location: Saugerties, NY
Travel time: 2 hours
Estimated rate: $150/night

Get the best of both worlds with this one-room cabin tucked away in a residential neighborhood. It’s a charming and rustic getaway that the listing says is perfect for a couple that wants to hike, antique or just relax on the porch. Book it on Airbnb.