Need to Get Away? Try the Tristate Area

After a week of long lectures, textbook lugging, and confusing homework assignments, the weekend finally arrives, offering the promise of sleeping in and hanging out. Instead of the usual activities that we so often occupy ourselves with, maybe it’s time for a change of pace, with a nice weekend outing to some new destinations.

If you’re looking to catch up on exercise but don’t want to run in a stuffy gym, take a jog around Rockland Lake State Park, located near Congers.

The Park trail, which wraps around the lake, allows joggers to proceed with their exercise while enjoying a beautiful, scenic view of the lake. In addition to a walking path, you can also bring your bicycle and peddle through this quaint park.

With its structured design and easy to navigate floors, the Garden State Mall is one of the best, and most underrated, shopping centers. The lack of sales tax on clothing in New Jersey is a sure fire way to save money when you’re balancing your budget.

With stores that the Palisades Mall doesn’t offer, the Garden State Mall is the best destination for shoppers on a mission. With fashionable chains like Urban Outfitters, American Apparel, and Free People, it is impossible to not find whatever you are looking for.

As the weather grows cooler and the fall sets in, maybe it’s time for that nature adventure you’ve been putting off. With a short drive to Bear Mountain, you gain access to the beautiful vistas and rugged terrain that New York State has to offer.

Even the most inexperienced hikers can maneuver their way through the new Appalachian Trail that opened earlier this year. With its hand-laid granite stairs to the top, any amateur hiker can easily navigate their way up the top of the mountain and enjoy the magnificent view of turning foliage in the vast valleys below.

The Bear Mountain Zoo also offers visitors a chance to see local animals after their expedition through the mountains. With its stunning landscapes and easy access, the trip to Bear Mountain is one worth making.

Now that fall is in the air, it’s time to pick up your bags and head to a new and exciting weekend getaway. With all that the tri-state area has to offer, the list just keeps on growing—and so do the memorable experiences.