College is meant to be the best years of our lives… why not go out and explore this summer? Oh what? You don’t have enough money to go on vacation? Me neither! But I have found 5 spots in New York that you and your besties can travel to for cheap. Read to find out!
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Finger Lakes
What to do: You can find something for EVERYONE when visiting the Finger Lakes. From hiking beautiful trails and watching waterfalls to screaming on upside down roller coasters, the Finger Lakes need to be on your summer bucket list.
Where to eat: Make sure to stop by Doug’s Fish Fry during your stay. You can grab a plate of delicious fried food for under $12.50 !
Where to stay: We care about the trip experience not if the hotel offers massages for guests or fancy room service. The Red Roof Inn Syracuse offers you and your besties a couple of beds for the incredible price of $46.00 a night! After a day of exploration, this hotel is perfect for a quick rest before another day of fun. With great reviews on bedroom comfort and hotel staff, Red Roof Inn is the perfect place for an inexpensive overnight stay.
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Bear Mountain
What to do: Bear Mountain, NY is full of breathtaking nature. One necessity is going to Bear Mountain State Park during your stay. Enjoy views of the Hudson River while biking or hiking down trails or spend time exploring the local zoo. People who love the outdoors will love Bear Mountain.
Where to eat: During your stay at Bear Mountain, be sure to go to Cosimo’s Brick oven of Woodbury. Split a huge serving of pizza with your besties for under $15.00 a pie. Reviews share that the whole atmosphere of Cosimo’s is a high-end experience for a low-end price.
Where to stay: Reviews for James Motel are outstanding for the price. You can experience the “all American hotel” for just under $75.00 a night. Travel back to simpler times and enjoy the incredible hospitality of hotel staff and comforting home-like feeling of your room.
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Hudson
What to do: The best way to see Hudson is to EXPLORE. Put on your walking shoes, pick a direction, and you’re off! Make sure to head to Warren Street to see the unique shops. Hudson is full of small DIY businesses and enchanted antique towns. All along the Hudson River, this town is perfect for someone looking to escape hectic New York City.
Where to eat: While Ca’MEA Restaurant is not the cheapest option in Hudson, it is a tourist and local favorite. A wonderful high-end Italian restaurant offers endless lunch and dinner options for guests. Be sure to come on a night that Ca’MEA hosts live musical guests to get an even better experience!
Where to stay: Get the full Hudson experience and stay at the St.Charles Hotel. Recently renovated, the St. Charles Hotel has a “boutique” appearance. Soft, comfortable beds, and delicious continental breakfast makes this hotel a tourist favorite. Located right at the end of Warren Street, this hotel is in the heart of Hudson. You can enjoy your stay at the St. Charles Hotel for around $115.00 a night… does the price scare you? Bring along four friends and it’s under $30 each!
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Fire Island
What to do: GO TO THE BEACH! Once you get tired of the seagulls and sand, spend the rest of your day hiking along the shoreline to see breathtaking views. Fire Island is for people who love the outdoors. Tanning, for youhiking, fishing, boating, are just a few of the wonderful CHEAP things you can do on Fire Island.
Where to eat: Two words: Island Mermaid. The name alone has me wanting to pack my bags and head to Fire Island. Enjoy dinner on the dock overlooking the beautiful ocean. The fairly priced menu has options for everyone, although if you’re on the ocean, get fish!
Where to stay: You’re on an island… why not go all out?! There is nothing better than waking up with the beach 5 feet away from your front door. The best places to stay in Fire Island are in the homes of people who grew up there. Check out Airbnb and find an inexpensive housefor youand your friends to spend the night- if you’re lucky you might even find one with a pool!
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Rockaway Beach
What to do: If I told you it would only cost $15.00 for an amazing experience would you believe me? Head to downtown Brooklyn with your beach bag in hand and the Beach Bus will pick you up! Hop on the Beach Bus and you will be handed a free beer and an experience like no other. For $15.00 you get an amazing ride out of the city and into Rockaway Beach. Once you get there, spend your day going in and out of local surf shops and swimming in the refreshing ocean.
Where to eat: If you’re in the mood for delicious Mexican cuisine, head to PICO. With a menu that pleases everyone’s tastebuds, you can get a filling lunch or dinner for under $20.00.
Where to stay: How often can you say: “oh yeah I stayed in a Penthouse on the beach”… like never! Until now. My favorite house I found on Airbnb was a stylistic 2 bedroom penthouse with a breathtaking view of the beach. With a short walk to the coolest restaurants and shops in Rockaway, this house is perfect for you and your friends. Beach towels and beach gear included, you can get this house for a bargain of $105.00 a night! Interested in checking out the place for yourself? Click for the link <----
There are no more excuses, pack your bags and head out on a trip right in your own state!