Where Locals Go: Our NYC staff share their favorite nearby getaways

10.05.2024 - 17:05 / lonelyplanet.com

"Where locals go" is our series featuring under-the-radar holiday destinations that are often overlooked by visitors but cherished by locals. In this edition, our NYC experts showcase their favorite holiday spots at home.

While those of us who live in New York City know there is no place like home, we also know there is nothing like getting out of town. It has long been a tradition for the locals to flee to cooler and more relaxing destinations when the tourists descend and the city starts to feel too small, even for us. That's why four New York-based Lonely Planet team members have shared their beloved nearby escapes that they return to year after year.

An idyllic NYC Getaway
Ann Douglas Lott, Associate Editor

Every New Yorker has a go-to close-ish summer beach destination they dream about the rest of the year. Martha’s Vineyard is so special because it’s so uniquely itself – almost no chains, walkable towns with unique personalities, all kinds of beaches to suit your vibe, and undeniably gorgeous pink sunsets. The best news? Delta and JetBlue have insanely cheap direct flights from NYC if you book early enough. I’m currently eyeing one that’s less than $200 for a round trip.

Oh, and let’s talk about the incredibly fresh seafood. My favorite bite here is hands-down the lobster roll from The Net Result in Vineyard Haven, taken to-go for a secluded sunset picnic at Lambert’s Cove Beach. Honorable mentions go to the ice cream at The Scoop Shack in Edgartown and cocktails on Atlantic Restaurant’s waterfront deck.

I’m headed there in July, and we’re planning a Midsommar-esque garden dinner one night and will spend the rest of our trip beach-hopping and strolling through Edgartown. Some beach recs: South Beach has fun crowds and big waves, while Lighthouse Beach is a more peaceful tanning spot.

You could go the Airbnb route (they’re all over the island), but if you prefer a hotel, the historic Harbor View Hotel and The Charlotte Inn in Edgartown have that classic Martha’s Vineyard feel. If you’re basing yourself in Oak Bluffs (most ferries dock here), a room at the Oak Bluffs Inn is not far from the iconic, colorful “gingerbread cottages.”

Need a car-free getaway?  These 10 destinations are perfect.

For hikers, shoppers, and foodies
Laura Motta, Senior Director of Content

The Catskills has to be NYC’s worst-kept secret. We all love it, and there’s nothing better than a weekend escape, but it would be a crime not to give it the recognition it deserves. I spent some time there last year, and it’s exactly what you hope for: a change of scenery.

Every town in the Catskills has a unique charm and holds the promise of wonderful restaurants, trendy bars, and excellent shopping. I love to stop by Subversive