By Keeley Mathews, The Nest
Mohegan Sun Casino, CT
Where to stay: Feeling lucky? Head to the Mohegan Sun casino. Don’t forget to ask for their Legendary Escape Package, which starts at $200 per night.
Getting there: Board the Metro-North train from Grand Central, get off at the New Haven train station, and then hop on a bus to get to the casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. You’ll be there in under three hours.
What to do: If you're not big on gambling, enjoy the nightlife after dining at a top restaurant.
Grand total: $540 per couple for two nights and transportation -- but just think about the prize money awaiting you at the slots!
Jamesport, NY
Where to stay: Think bed-and-breakfasts are inaccessible sans car? Not the Red Barn Bed and Breakfast, an eco-friendly destination.
Getting there: Just hop on the LIRR for about two hours to Riverhead, and the innkeepers will pick you up for a free ride to the Red Barn. To add to the eco-friendly vibe, they’ll even discount your bill by 10 percent just for using public transportation.
What to do: Ask the inkeepers about Vintage Tours: For $75 per person, you get a tour of four vineyards, lunch, and free transportation from the B&B.
Grand total: $600 per couple for two nights, transportation, and the wine tour.
City Island, NY
Where to stay: Who knew you could find a quaint fishing town in the Bronx! If you crave fresh seafood and a relaxing day out on the water, retreat to Le Refuge Inn, which overlooks the harbor.
Getting there: Just take the 6 train for an hour to Pelham Bay Park.
What to do: Go sailing with the New York Sailing Center & Yacht Club, they'll provide free transportation to City Island for private lessons (a great deal for $90 an hour).
Grand total: $423 per couple for one night at the inn, transportation, and three hours of sailing lessons.
Saratoga Springs, NY
Where to stay: For a change of pace and scenery, head to the The Saratoga Hilton in Saratoga Springs in upstate New York. Located in the heart of downtown, you’ll be in walking distance to tons of cafes, restaurants, and nightlife. And, since your hotel room will only set you back $139+ per night, you’ll have plenty of cash left over.
Getting there: Just go on the Amtrak train from Penn Station to Saratoga and take a cab to the hotel -- you’ll be there in four hours.
What to do: Are you sporty? There’s an award-winning golf course, the famous Saratoga Racetrack, hiking in the state park, and boating on Saratoga Lake.
Grand total: $500 (for two nights and transportation) per couple.
Boston, MA
Where to stay:The Fairmont Copley Plaza. Their Sizzle in the City package gets you a complimentary deluxe breakfast, hors d’oeuvres, and champagne.
Getting there: When it comes to getting the most from your money, you can’t beat the Chinatown bus. If you’re a city slicker but want to cheat on New York for the weekend, head to Canal Street and hop on the bus to Boston. Four hours and $30 later, you’ll be there!
What to do: Wander through the Boston Common, window shop on Newbury, hit the theater district for a show, and enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in the North End; just make sure you leave enough time to enjoy your plush hotel!
Grand total: $838 per couple for two nights and transportation.
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