WRITTEN FOR PUBLIC GOODS
Once upon a time, upstate New York had a reputation for hippies and home-towners. Slowly, the fact that New York City share’s the state has led to more and more Manhattan/Brooklynites snatching up cabins for weekending, and over the past decade we’ve seen “upstate” skyrocket straight up in popularity.
Dozens of Manhattan restaurants have outposts in places like Hudson or Kingston, and there you’re as likely to find an organic facialist as you are some organic kohlrabi. Rumor has it, Rhinebeck might even be getting a Soho House in the near future. Wild.
Lucky for weekenders, that translates to dozens of stylish retreats just a short drive or train ride from the city. And lucky for New York State many of these new boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts — despite their chic appearance — respect the area’s tree-hugging history through sustainable practices.
This attitude means you can rest easy on those crisp white sheets knowing they’re made from organic cotton and enjoy fresh mountain water because you trust it’s not being wasted. So if you’re craving a cozy weekend away for Valentine’s Day — or any given Sunday — here is your inspo.
1. The Graham & Co.
The Price: $175 a night
The Location: 2.5 hours from NYC in Phoenicia, NY
The Vibe: hipster chill
Sustainability Points For:
locally sourced and organic breakfasts
full-size refillable bath products
earth-friendly cleaning products
being in the process of applying for Trip Advisors GreenLeaders program
Bonus Points For:
being near Hunter Mountain for skiing and Phoenicia for brunching
kitchenettes in some rooms for DIY breakfast in bed-ing
2. The Red Rose Motel
The Price: $150+ per night
The Location: 2:30 from NYC in Roscoe, NY
The Vibe: Americana eclectic
Sustainability Points For:
reserving a building from 1938 using original and reclaimed materials
vintage and US-made fixtures
chemical-free Brooklinen sheets and toxin-free Public Goods bath products
locally sourced meat and produce in the restaurant
being vegetarian-friendly
Bonus Points For:
wood burning fireplaces
a pet friendly room
breakfast included
3. The Spruceton Inn
The Price: $149+ per night
The Location: 3 hours from NYC in West Kill, NY
The Vibe: minimalist, modern and communal
Sustainability Points For:
toxin-free bath products in refillable bottles
limited use of disposable cleaning products in favor of reusable materials
earth-friendly cleaning products
no single-use coffee cups
Bonus Points For:
firepits and BBQs
a huge barn available to rent for events
4. The Arnold House
The Price: 200+
The Location: 2:5 hours from NYC in Livingston, NY
The Vibe: hip, casual and communal
Sustainability Points For:
using reclaimed materials
full-size refillable bath products
minimizing disposable cleaning and service products in favor of washable, toxin free
cleaning botanical spa products
Bonus Points For:
the spa!
wood burning fire waiting room and all
being a Foster Supply & Co hotel
5. Woodstock Way
The Price: $250+
The Location: 1:45 hours from NYC in Woodstock, NY
The Vibe: Elevated, tranquil, west coast cool
Sustainability Points For:
sustainable construction using reclaimed materials
living roofs for water and heat conservation
energy and water efficient systems throughout
condensed recycling programs
Bonus Points For:
maximum tranquility
being the most advanced in sustainability on this list.
Have a spot that you think I missed? Let me know in the comments below! Maybe we’ll see you there…