The best vacation rentals in the Hudson Valley and Catskills

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Summer is winding down, which means you only have a few more weeks to partake in that all-important seasonal activity: getting the heck out of the concrete jungle for a weekend getaway.

Whether it’s the Hamptons, the mountains, or the middle of nowhere, there are plenty of small towns within a few hours of the five boroughs that are perfect for a weekend escape, and many of these destinations are reachable on public transportation.

Here, we’ve chosen to focus on the Hudson Valley and the Catskills, where there’s no shortage of adorable small towns with plenty of cute places to stay. There are also plenty of things to do in those two regions, including historic houses, quirky art installations, hiking, and more.

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Airbnb

Carriage house in Hudson

This renovated carriage house, which dates back to 1842, is located in the utterly charming town of Hudson, which is just a few hours north of New York City via Amtrak. It was recently featured on the Netflix series Stay Here, and the fruits of that renovation are obvious: Though the home’s historic bones remain, it’s been updated with modern appliances and furnishings. It’s also close to Hudson’s main drag, Warren Street, which is packed with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Rates start at $180/night to rent the full carriage house.

Boutique Homes

Converted stone mill in Salt Point

Located in the tiny town of Salt Point—which has fewer than 200 residents—this 18th-century stone mill was converted into a home in the 1960s, and is now available for weekend warriors to rent. With four bedrooms and plenty of space, it’s an ideal rental for families looking to share. Rates start at $550/night.

Airbnb

Off-the-grid tiny house in the Hudson Valley

For those who want to give tiny house living a try, this stylish cabin in the Hudson Valley is one way to do it. The home is located on a farm about 20 miles outside of the artsy hub of Beacon, and it’s advertised as being off-grid, with little more than the expanse of nature around you for entertainment. (Well, there is Wi-Fi.) Rates start at $174/night.

Airbnb

A chic loft in a historic Kingston home

The owners of this 19th-century Kingston home call it the “Bau Guesthouse,” a reference to the German design movement, Bauhaus, that embraced clean lines, bright colors, and geometric shapes. You’ll find all of those in the decor here, but the house—located in the historic center of town—also has plenty of beautiful vintage touches, like a large and lovely fireplace. Rates start at $94/night.

VRBO

Cozy cottage in Woodstock

Located about a mile from downtown Woodstock, and a short car ride from Hunter and Overlook mountains, this cottage sits on four acres of land. The 600-square-foot home has one bedroom and bathroom, with a small kitchen and cute front porch. It also comes with free Wi-Fi and other conveniences. Rates begin at $180/night.

VRBO

Historic house in Hudson

Traveling with a group? This cozy historic home in Hudson sleeps up to eight people and features three bedrooms and two bathrooms. The lovely brick home is close to the Amtrak station—making it a cinch for weekend travelers—and it has its own private courtyard that’ll be perfect in warmer months. Rates average $409/night.

Airbnb

A tiny, romantic bungalow in Phoenicia

This cozy little home is located in Phoenicia, one of the nicest small towns in the Catskills. It’s not a huge space, but has everything you might need, including a full kitchen, inviting bedroom, and a backyard with a grill. It’d be perfect for a couple looking for a quiet getaway. Rates start at $110/night.

Airbnb

An “eco-cottage” in Rosendale

Find peace and quiet—often in short supply in NYC—at this minimalist cottage in Rosendale, a small town that’s close to the Mohonk Preserve. While it’s not lacking in modern comforts (including Wi-Fi and Apple TV), the setting might just encourage you to get off the grid and into nature. It has two bedrooms and one bathroom, and rates start at $250/night.

Courtesy of Glamping Hub

A stylish tiny house near South Cairo

A chic tiny house located just outside of Woodstock sleeps three, and is situated in a serene setting; a creek runs past the house, and there’s a waterfall close by. The home is equipped with everything you’d need—including a kitchen and a shower—and there’s a small patio and a grill provided. Rates start at around $309/night.