A relaxing getaway is just what we all need after an exhausting week at work. We owe it to ourselves to recharge, have some fun, and spend quality time with our loved ones. I just discovered some really great and affordable places to unwind.

New York is a really cool place to live and work–and eat–in but it sure can be fun to get away every so often. It’s healthy to get away once in a while and explore new places and have new experiences that you don’t normally find in the Big Apple.

So pack and overnight bag and head on out to any of these destinations after clocking out of work on Friday.

Catskills Mountains

A 3-hour drive to the Catskills in upscale New York can be one of the most thrilling getaways you’ll find. There is so much to do in here like hiking, playing golf, and even doing some arts and crafts. It’s great to come here any time, except during spring because the place is muddy. During summer, the Catskills is filled with beautiful wildflowers. The creek is a perfect place to cool down and take a dip. The lush mountains burst with colors during the fall. Anyone who’s into photography will love to visit during this time. The most exciting time to visit, for me, is during winter because of skiing.

There’s no problem when it comes to accommodation because the Catskills offers a wide variety of choices: Emerson Place, Woodstock, Scribner Hollow Lodge, Mohonk Mountain House, Mount Tremper, River Run B&B, and Kutshers Country Club.

Pennsylvania Dutch Country

If you’re tired of the same old romantic getaway, then this is the perfect destination for you. Only four hours from New York City, Pennsylvania Dutch Country is a one-of-a-kind experience. Going to the country, even for just a couple of days, is the best thing you can do to forget the stress of city life. Here, you’ll enjoy nature and the simplicity of life. The rolling hillsides and scenic country roads will certainly rejuvenate you. Won’t you love to breathe fresh air and see sprawling fields?

One of the coolest things you can do here is travel via horse-drawn buggies. It’s something you don’t get to do every day. And the food here is awesome. Everything is made from local and organic ingredients, which is great for those watching their weight. There are decent hotels that are very clean and a lot of restaurants.

The Cottage at Acorn Lane

For those who just want to have a change of environment, staying at the Cottage at Acorn Lane is a must. This peaceful and beautiful community at the heart of Maine seems to have been taken straight out of a television show. If you’re totally spent, then make arrangements to have this awesome place all to yourself. You can have friends or the entire family because it’s big enough for 6 people.

There are lots of things to do here. There are indoor and outdoor pools as well as jacuzzi and hot tub. The house is air conditioned, has wireless internet, phone, and other luxuries you’d want in a house. There’s even a fitness room to ensure you still get some exercise. And, oh, there’s a 24-hour on call maintenance in case you need help with something.

These are just 3 of the best getaway destinations near New York. There are plenty of other choices that’ll give you the same enjoyment and relaxation to prepare you for another stressful week ahead.

Editor’s Note – Consideration was received for the editing and publishing of this post