Killer food trucks pull up to the grounds for visitors to enjoy —the last time I visited, they offered fabulous lobster rolls in the peak of summer. There are always two to three rotating local beers on tap, just in case you want to switch things up. Inside, visitors will also find shelves of games donated by locals. Another plus: It’s a dog friendly property, so long as they remain on leashes.
Get there and around: It’s approximately a 3-hour drive from NYC. You can also take an Amtrak train to Pittsfield, then a local taxi (rideshare services are not as readily available in this region) to Richmond.
Where to stay:
New Jersey
Laurita Winery
Where: New Egypt, New Jersey
Laurita Winery offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, exceptional wine, warm hospitality, and convenience, making it an ideal destination for NYC travelers seeking a quick wine-inspired escape. Set across 40 acres of neatly cultivated vineyards and 200 acres of lush woodlands, Laurita showcases the rolling hills of southeastern New Jersey, and offers an expansive tasting room, housed in two tastefully historic 150-year-old barns. The vineyard produces up to 16,000 cases of wine annually—all exclusively available on-site—with varieties like Chardonnay, Merlot, Pinot Gris, and Chambourcin. The space is welcoming and cozy, and leans toward a no-frills winery experience—expect quality craftsmanship without the snobbery here.
Beyond wine, Laurita is a vibrant hub of cultural activity. Guests can enjoy a diverse range of live entertainment, from country line dancing and jazz nights to outdoor movie screenings and annual food truck festivals. The winery also hosts gourmet food experiences, with sandwiches, cheeses, and meats available for pairing with the estate-grown wines.
Get there and around: From NYC, the drive can be up to two hours. Or, you and your group can pitch in to book a shuttle bus, which is always a fun option for a special occasion.
Where to stay:
Willow Creek Winery
Where: Cape May, New Jersey
Whether you’re already headed to Cape May for a summer getaway or are looking for an excuse to, seek out Willow Creek Winery and Farm while you’re there. The 50 acre vineyard estate is scenic and just minutes from the beach and buzzy downtown area. Upon arrival, the picturesque vineyard road takes you alongside rolling vines with the lushest of gardens and singing birds perched on colorful flowers. Both the outdoor patio and tasting room, a vast 300-seat space, are perfect for group outings and open daily, with options to enjoy the estate-grown wines and sangrias by the glass or bottle. A host of well-rounded experiences are on offer—you can book special educational wine tastings, vineyard tours on eclectic carts, or enjoy self-guided wine tasting flights. Alongside an elevated charcuterie selection, the winery offers a full food menu. There’s also a live music calendar and an 18-hole golf course. Note, reservations are required, so book as soon as you confirm a date.
Get there and around: Close to a three hour drive from NYC, the winery is the perfect excuse for a Cape May getaway.
Where to stay:
Wine tours near NYC:
If you’re not one for sorting out logistics, consider booking one of these pre-arranged wine tours.
