For New Yorkers, nothing says romance quite like a cozy winter retreat. And with Valentine’s Day approaching quickly, now is fairly favorable time to plan a romantic escape with your significant other. Ready to ditch your 250 sq ft apartment and stretch the legs/snuggle up somewhere more breathable? Check out some of our favorite spots to relax, unwind and sweetly pass the time.
1. Greenport, NY (Long Island)
This Long Island town is a haven for NYC couples looking to spend a few nights in a sleepy winter town. Greenport’s chic hotels and restaurants mix with longstanding local staples to create a nostalgia-meets-hip vibe. And with its growing oyster farming industry, there’s aphrodisiac aplenty to get you in the mood!
Do: Try the locally produced wine at nearby acclaimed vineyards, Bedell Cellars and Channing Daughters. Explore works from both emerging and established artists at South Street Gallery (call ahead for times) or check out one of the only public access camera obscuras in the world.
Eat: Book ahead for a Saturday night reservation at swanky eatery The Frisky Oyster and then head over to Industry Standard for a night cap. Spend Sunday morning (ok, afternoon) indulging in a satiating breakfast at relative newcomer Bruce and Sons.
Stay: After undergoing a full renovation, The Gallery Hotel reopened its doors in 2015. In addition to ten guestrooms there’s a movie room and game room—perfect for chilling on a chilly evening.
2. Woodstock, NY (Catskills)
Woodstock isn’t just for those stuck in the ‘60s anymore. Spend a weekend perusing stores, visiting art galleries, and wining and dining for two.
Do: While you’ll still find plenty of head shops, crystals and vinyl, some chicer takes on hippie culture are springing up. Stop by Woodstock General Supply for his and hers winter sweaters and stock up on reading material at Fox Tale.
Eat: One of the most acclaimed eateries in the Catskills region is right off Woodstock’s main strip. Cucina serves up farm-to-table Italian food in a warm, upscale atmosphere. Don’t skip over the cocktail list. And Shindig is the place for breakfast or lunch. Or brunch. Expect to wait in line.
Stay: Book a cabin at Woodstock Way, where you’ll feel as if you’re a world away — even though your steps from the heart of town. Opening in 2014, The Hotel Dylan, which received a makeover courtesy of The Novogratz, is drawing a the high end crowd to the area.
3. Long Branch, NJ (Jersey Shore)
Thanks to the always bustling and easy-to-access shops and restaurants of Pier Village, Long Branch is an easy to explore shore town even if you are one of the many New Yorkers who don’t have a car. From live music to indulgent spa services, you can get away without forgoing good taste.
Do: Lace up a pair of blades and go ice skating by the beach. Instagram it so people will know it’s real! Warm up with a hot chocolate (or something stronger) afterward at McCloone’s Pier House.
Eat: Brooklynites nostalgic for a taste of home can pick up super strong coffees and tasty pastries from Rook Coffee. And if a romantic dinner is on the agenda (that is why you’re reading this after all) try the sultry ambiance and sophisticated Italian fare at Sirena.
Stay: Uber chic Bungalow Hotel is a boutique venue attracting a stylish crowd. Play billiards at the pool table or curl up by your fireplace. Yes, every room has one. Popular and sprawling Ocean Place Hotel recently went through a multi-million dollar renovation, adding new dining options and an indoor pool. Bonus: The hotel spa also offers couples massages.
4. Montauk, NY (East End)
Of course Montauk is for lovers—especially in the quiet winter months. Find a cozy fireplace, pour yourself some whiskey, and let the romantic times roll.
Do: While the winter experience is a considerable change-up from the concerts and crowded beaches of summer, the Parrish Art Museum, the tap room at Montauk Brew Co, or The Spa at Gurney’s are a few places you could easily spend an afternoon.
Eat: Start the morning right with a healthy breakfast from Naturally Good Cafe. And while it’s a mob scene in the summer, use the off-season to snag a table with a view at Navy Beach.
Stay: Quiet and refined, Montauk Yacht Club is a couples haven. With a library, chill cocktail lounge and sunlight rooms it’s easy to make the most of staying indoors.
5. Cold Spring, NY (Hudson Valley)
With so much to explore in New York’s Hudson Valley, it’s hard to pick just one town to hunker down in. But with its proximity to NYC and easy access to the Metro-North for exploring other areas, Cold Spring is a must-visit for those seeking a quiet, cozy getaway.
Do: In addition to a ton of antique shops, you can shop for firsthand items at Burkelman and Cold Spring General Store. Before heading back to the city, take the Metro-North one stop north to Dia Beacon.
Eat: Foundry Cafe is the top breakfast game in town while love birds flick to Riverview Restaurant for romantic dinner dates.
Stay: In the tiny town of Cold Spring, B&Bs are the monopoly. Cozy and quaint, Pig Hill Inn on Main Street is a favorite. Or look at Airbnb for stylish options such as this.
For those with their eyes set on the East End, check out our Open Out East: Winter 2017 feature. If you end up taking us up on any of these recommendations, feel free to let us know how the trip went and send us some photos via hello@whalebonemag.com.
