The best New York State B&Bs

From city-centre boutiques to chic rural getaways, our favourite New York State B&Bs are wonderfully varied. Whether you’re flying to Rochester, Buffalo, Syracuse, or New York City, a relaxed all-American bolthole is well within reach. Take a look at our top bed and breakfasts in New York State for everything from urban estates to wild Finger Lakes retreats and active trips in the Catskills and Hudson Valley.

Old Drovers Inn, Hudson River

This classic American inn is a must if you find yourself in the Hudson River area — just 45 minutes from the hustle and bustle of New York City, it’s a great option for those looking to escape city life for a day or two. Built in 1750, the Old Drovers Inn is replete with old-world charm and new-world amenities, thanks to a recent renovation. And to top it all off, they actively encourage guests to rediscover the “lost art of lounging around”. Well, you don’t have to tell us twice.

The Ellwanger Estate, Rochester

Lovingly restored to its original glory, the historic Ellwanger Estate hosts its own spa, gourmet breakfasts, and an enviable location in the heart of Rochester’s Mount Hope Cultural District. Sit on the wraparound veranda at this urban retreat and gaze out at the gardens, or grab one of the DVDs from the extensive library and get cosy in your beautifully decorated room. But while it’s plenty bucolic, The Ellwanger Estate is also up-to-date: after recently teaming up with Tesla, it became the first area retreat to offer overnight charging for its electric cars.

Red Coach Inn, Niagara

The proximity to Niagara Falls would be reason enough to stay at the Red Coach Inn (it overlooks the Upper Rapids, so you can hear the roar of the water, and is just 25 minutes from Buffalo city centre), but this historic B&B is warm, welcoming, and well appointed — and it has the awards to prove it. Slip on your comfy robe and put your feet up after a busy day exploring the local scenery. You could even splurge and treat yourself to a suite with a Jacuzzi tub.

The Black Sheep Inn and Spa, Finger Lakes

Co-owners of the Black Sheep Inn and Spa (just an hour and a half outside of Rochester and an hour and 45 minutes from Syracuse), Debbie and Marc are firm believers in fresh, organic, local produce…and the incredible breakfasts at this B&B will make believers of you too. From the thoughtful, attentive service to the beautiful surroundings and the proximity to many destination-worthy microbreweries and wineries, the Black Sheep ticks all the boxes.

Chalet of Canandaigua, Finger Lakes

Just 40 minutes from Rochester, the rustic Chalet of Canandaigua is one of our favourite New York State B&Bs. Aside from having a great name, this boutique, hillside B&B has sumptuous furnishings, beautiful grounds and is mere minutes from the nearest town, despite its private and tranquil location. The suites here offer the perfect romantic getaway for two.

Spruceton Inn, Catskills

For those looking to travel a little further afield, the Catskills offer the ideal rural getaway. Set in the Schwarzenegger family’s former summer home, the stylish Spruceton Inn offers up laidback luxury and spectacular scenery. Although stretching the traditional definition of a B&B, this Catskills “Bed & Bar” (they serve a wonderful selection of craft brews) is chic, minimalist and incredibly inviting. Unplug from city life and enjoy BBQs under the stars (feel free to use their classic Weber grills and s’mores supplies), stroll in the meadow, paddle in the creek, and just enjoy the wilderness of the Catskills Mountains all around you.

Written by Giverny Tattersfield