New York

Romantic Getaways in New York State: 6 Romantic Respites to Get Away From it All

These are our favorite spots for romantic getaways in New York State - whether you're celebrating something special or just in need of a relaxing retreat.

What does it mean to be in a New York State of Mind when it comes to romance? Luckily, the Empire State offers many answers to that question, with fabulous options for overnight stays in locations where you can cuddle up with your sweetie that range from remote beaches to secluded mountains, and towering falls to mirrored lakes.

My favorite romantic getaways in New York are tucked into under-the-radar spots like the Catskills, where cozying up around a crackling fire watching the sun set, sipping coffee as the sun rises over the mountains, or enjoying farm-to-fork cuisine grown and prepared right where I’m spending the night, all make it feel like I’ve been transported to a special getaway – even when my husband and I only have to drive an hour or two to get there.

Here are a few more favorites for a complete romantic immersion in New York State, whether you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day, a milestone anniversary, popping the question, or are just in need of a relaxing retreat a deux.

Beachside bliss at a romantic getaway in the Hamptons

A chic and elegant Hamptons hideaway, Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is an idyllic beach getaway for two. At the far end of the eastern Long Island Sound, the resort offers an expansive 2,000 foot private beach (a rarity in the perennially popular Hamptons) for lounging without crowds.

There are also extensive water views from everywhere on the property, so you’ll see and hear the gently lapping waves from the restaurant, spa, and pool. All of the spacious rooms here have watery vistas as well.

To get even closer to the water, choose one of the charming cottages with direct beach access. These romantic retreats give you such complete privacy, you can even sneak into the ocean for a midnight swim without anyone noticing.

For couples who want more traditional water relaxation, the Seawater Spa is worth a special trip for its eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, unique ocean-fed saltwater pool, and indoor/outdoor treatments, including hydrotherapy for two.

For a special evening, reserve a Bungalow by the Sea and you’ll be treated to a private fire pit, dinner, and drinks for two in a glass-enclosed room within steps of the water. Or, for a fancy date-night dinner, Scarpetta brings a bit of New York City to the beach with a swanky lounge atmosphere and modern Italian food served with ocean views.

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Montauk
8.2 Very good (1106 reviews)

Pretty Woman romance in Westchester

Get cozy by the fireplace at the Bedford Post Inn, a historic property with notable restaurants, bucolic grounds, and romantic atmosphere made even more notable for its famous owner, Richard Gere.

Of course the Pretty Woman star is just a side note to the luxury 8-room property. The Relais & Châteaux inn is known for its sumptuous furnishings and décor, a spacious and serene yoga studio, and restaurants serving sustainable, locally grown farm-to-table fare.

There are five different room layouts to choose from, most with fireplaces and terraces, some with claw-foot bathtubs, and all with double showers and heated floors to further enhance the cozy feel of a winter getaway. Plus, all the beds sport silky Frette linens.

Dining is a special treat at Bedford Post, with a range of intimate settings for couples to choose from. Decadent breakfasts, included with the room, can be enjoyed at the rustic Barn that channels the French countryside, or delivered right to your room.

The Terrace is the place to enjoy cocktails al fresco and small bites from the outdoor wood-burning stove. The Farmhouse is the sophisticated setting for multi-course tasting feasts, perfect for a dress up evening to celebrate a special anniversary, or just to toast to getting away for a night together.

Bedford Post Inn

Pound Ridge
9.3 Excellent (82 reviews)

Private lakeside romantic vacation rental in the Catskills

Nestled on a secluded private lake, this Romantic Catskills Getaway- European style luxury apartment by the lake is a vacation rental with a lovely waterside location in a secluded wooded setting.

Although this Catskill Mountains vacation rental is called an “apartment,” it’s really a cozy cabin with its own entry and water views of the private lake just outside the door. Lounge on the deck in Adirondack chairs as the sun sets, whip up some appetizers in the kitchen, and then enjoy the mountain solitude while you watch the flames flicker in the wood-burning firepit. Back inside, the bedroom has a plush queen-size bed, and the bathroom features a large rain shower. In warm weather, there’s a kayak included for a scenic paddle on the lake.

The location of this getaway is special, too, nestled between two quaint Catskills resort towns – Windham and Hunter. The area is ideal for a winter skiing vacation, summer swimming or paddling in the serene lake. It’s also a perfect perch to watch the spring blooms and fall’s technicolor foliage displays. In Windham, Ze Wine Bar has an enchanted garden for outdoor dining and 40 wines by the glass to pair with sophisticated small bites for the perfect evening out.

Romantic Catskills Getaway- European Style Luxury Apartment By The Lake

Hunter
9.7 Excellent (81 reviews)

An all-suites romantic stay in Lake Placid

Tucked into the woodlands of upstate New York is Whiteface Lodge, an all suites, luxury resort with architecture inspired by the Adirondack Great Camps. Thrill-seeking couples who love an endorphin rush — whether it comes from romance or adventure — will find plenty of inspiration at the rustic-luxe lodge, located in the two-time Olympic host town of Lake Placid.

The adventure starts with miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, heightens with downhill thrills at Whiteface Mountain, and hits a peak with North America’s longest mountain coaster that follows the Olympic bobsled track. Then it relaxes with a spin around the outdoor ice rink.

Romance is delivered with special in-room touches like intricately-decorated cast-iron fireplaces, two-person jetted tubs, and cozy lodge furnishings. Plus, evening cocktails under the stars are warmed by a fire in the shelter of a private lean-to.

Suites have kitchens, so you can rustle up breakfast in bed or champagne on ice whenever the mood strikes – or order 24-hour room service for any craving round-the-clock. Head to the grand Kanu Dining Room with its soaring ceilings, wall of windows, and roaring stone fireplaces to take in the mountain views while you nibble on a charcuterie board for two.

The Whiteface Lodge

Top rated
Lake Placid
9.7 Excellent (878 reviews)

Romantic luxury on a budget in Niagara Falls

Staying at The Giacomo feels like stepping back in time, as much for its impressive Art Deco décor as for its feeling of old-fashioned romance. It is, after all, the spot where a generation of honeymooners headed to Niagara Falls to celebrate their love.

You can easily travel further to celebrate your love today, but you’ll be hard pressed to find more inspiring views than the thundering waters cascading over the three awe-inspiring falls that comprise Niagara. Whether you and your boo walk along the water’s edge, kiss in the mist on a boat tour, or get soaked on a tour behind the falls, you’ll most likely find you’re falling in love all over again in the glow of the national park.

The Giacomo is a rare find, offering a near perfect location in walking distance to the Falls, in addition to European flair and a host of perks – all at budget pricing. Highlights include complimentary breakfast delivered right to your door, chocolates in the room, and cookies at turn-down, all starting at less than $100.

Splurge a bit more for a Grand Deluxe room to make your retreat even more memorable with a view of the falls, a whirlpool tub, and a fireplace, too. You can also choose to “enhance” your stay by ordering rose petals, long stem roses, truffles, or a special bottle of wine to have waiting in your room for when you arrive.

The Giacomo

Top rated
Niagara Falls
8.8 Excellent (1135 reviews)

Soak up the history and the romantic hot springs in Saratoga

Ornate neo-classical Italianate architecture – including a show-stopping grand staircase and glittering ballroom – set the magical scene at the Adelphi, a 150-year-old boutique hotel right in the heart of Saratoga Springs.

There are a number of unique room configurations in this Golden Age property that make fit for a dreamy overnight. The Polaris Suite sports an outdoor whirlpool on its private patio, the Premier Broadway King room hosts a four-poster bed, and there’s an enormous terrace attached to the Travers Suite.

No matter which accommodations you choose, be sure to make time to wine and dine around the handsome property. Highlights for foodies include the Blue Hen Terrace for outdoor dining, the Liberty Terrace for an intimate pre-dinner cocktail, and the upscale Salt & Char steakhouse, where the outdoor chandeliered verandah makes you feel like you’ve been transported to a classic southern mansion.

Of course, if you’re in Saratoga, there’s one activity that couples have enjoyed for centuries that you need to try: soaking in the natural mineral baths once purported to be the Fountain of Youth. Take a dip at the Roosevelt Baths, where tubs are filled with warm effervescent mineral water for the ultimate rejuvenating plunge – the Adelphi will drive you there with complimentary car service.

Adelphi

Saratoga Springs
9.8 Excellent (1223 reviews)