FOR ROCK CLIMBING
“One of the best climbing spots nearby is in the Shawangunk Mountains up by New Paltz. The ’Gunks are climbable at every level, and they are particularly great for traditional climbing, when you don’t drill bolts into the rock. You can get guides from EMS who are not at all intimidating.”
—Abby Nelson, Assistant Rock Wall Manager, Chelsea Piers
FOR WINE TASTING
“My boyfriend and I visited Lieb Cellars near Greenport last summer. Their sparkling Pinot Blanc was amazing! And then we were left alone in the vineyard. Laying down in the grass, we felt a million miles from the city.”
—Claire Paparazzo, Wine Director, Blue Hill
FOR MUSIC
“Ravinia, outside Chicago, is so easy to get to; if you fly into O’Hare, you’re already close. The experience of being in the Pavilion or out on the lawn is like nothing you can get in New York. You can hear the cicadas during the shows, and it’s this perfect summer experience. And because the Chicago audience is so loyal, it’s more like a family than a festival.”
—Brian Zeger, Artistic Director of Vocal Arts, Juilliard
OUTLET SHOPPING
“Woodbury Common! They have everything: Gucci, Prada, Hugo Boss. Etro is really my go-to store, though. I got a shirt for $90 that would have been $250. It’s a nice day trip, and you can combine it with a visit to Monroe and Woodstock.”
—Spencer Singer, Assistant Manager, Scoop Men