Top 6 Weekend Trips for Students in New York

Studying in New York is incredible, but it can also get overwhelming really fast. Between crowded subways, packed schedules, & late-night study, everyone needs a break. That’s where weekend trips for New York students come in. 

The best part? You don’t have to go far. There are many places that are waiting just a few hours from your student housing in New York. Whether you’re craving peace in Saratoga Springs or mountain air in The Berkshires, these quick escapes are perfect for clearing your head without breaking your budget. 

Saratoga Springs 

Saratoga Springs is a very calm & quiet place. You will come across many mineral springs & Victorian architectures. It is a local favorite for weekend trips for New York students who need a break from Manhattan. The city attracts over 14,000 college students & young professionals each year. All thanks to its cultural events & budget-friendly stay options. Below are some of the reasons that make Saratoga Spring a great place: 

• It is roughly 3 hours north of NYC. It is an easy weekend drive or train ride via Amtrak. 

• You will have affordable hostels and student accommodation starting around $70/night. This often includes breakfast. 

• Free attractions here are Congress Park, Saratoga Spa State Park, and the weekend farmers’ market. 

• It has got great food scene, grab local coffee at Uncommon Grounds or brunch at Mrs. London’s. 

Long Island’s Hampton 

The Hamptons might sound fancy. But when you go here in the off-season, it’s a chill place to be. Just think about open beaches, vintage shops, & quiet evenings. It’s one of the easiest weekend trips for New York students who are looking for a perfect holiday. Student visitors to the Hamptons jumped by 18% over the past two years, thanks to cheaper off-season rentals and short travel times. Following are the various reasons that make Long Island Hampton great for students: 

• It takes only 2-hour drive or 2.5-hour LIRR train ride to reach here from the city. 

• Beaches like Southampton, East Hampton, & Montauk are clean. They are great for swimming. 

• Local cafes & pop-up markets often run student discounts in spring and fall. 

• Perfect if you’re living in student housing in New York City, just grab friends, rent a car, and split costs. 

Cooperstown 

If you have ever thought about experiencing small-town America, then Cooperstown is your spot. It is known for the Baseball Hall of Fame. Every year, Cooperstown attracts nearly 300,000 visitors. Most of them are students who are looking to explore culture during their weekend trips to New York. Following are the key details of Cooperstown: 

•  4-hour drive from NYC, quiet, scenic, and safe. 

• Airbnbs & shared student accommodation here costs $80–100/- night. 

• Here you will have many lakeside spots like Otsego Lake. It is perfect for kayaking, cycling, or even reading in peace. 

The Finger Lakes 

The Finger Lakes region is in upstate NYC. Here you will find various hiking spots, waterfalls, & Instagram-worthy sunsets. Finger Lake welcomes more than 2 million visitors every year. Out of them are students who are from Cornell, Syracuse, and RIT unis. Following are the key details of why the Finger lakes is a great place for weekend trips: 

• About 4–5 hours from NYC, ideal for long weekends. 

• You will have many free outdoor spots like Taughannock Falls, Watkins Glen, & Cayuga Lake. 

• Affordable homestays starting around $60–90/-night, great for groups. 

• Excellent wine trails (even if you skip tasting, the views are worth it). 

Mystic, Connecticut 

This place is small, close to seaside & is effortlessly charming. Mystic feels like a perfect movie set. At one point it was a shipbuilding hub. But now it is all about seafood, salt air, & historic charm. According to some of the reports, there has been 20% increase in visitors under 30. Students have stated that they are drawn to it because of its affordability & coastal views. Following are the key highlights that make it a great spot for New York students weekend trip: 

• It takes only 3 hrs by train from NYC via Amtrak or Metro-North to reach here. 

• Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, Mystic Aquarium, or Olde Mistick Village. 

• You will have great local food here. The pizza from Mystic Pizza is a must-try, you should never miss. 

• Cozy Airbnbs or lodges from $90–120 per night, cheaper during weekdays. 

The Berkshires 

You will be surrounded by art, nature, & quiet. Located in western Massachusetts, it is a 3 hrs drive from NYC. It has been a longtime favorite for students who crave fresh air & creative energy. According to surveys, the number of visitors have climbed by 15%. Following are the reasons that make Berkshires a great weekend trip for New York students: 

• Affordable lodges and cabins, with prices starting around $75/-night. 

• Art lovers can visit Mass MoCA or Norman Rockwell Museum. 

• Outdoor enthusiasts can hike Monument Mountain or bike along scenic routes. 

• Frequent bus routes make it accessible from student housing in New York. 

Conclusion 

A quick weekend trip do a lot more for your brain then a coffee run will ever do. Every trip gives you space to breathe, think, and reset. If you’re living anywhere across the student housing in the USA network, planning a short getaway is easy. And when it comes to finding comfortable, well-located housing that fits your lifestyle, University Living has your back. Explore, compare, & book verified homes, so you can focus on studying hard & exploring even harder. 

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