Weekend Lake Getaway near NJ/NY
 

I'm planning a weekend getaway for my parents (they're 50 and 60 years old), and I need some ideas. They'd ideally like somewhere near a LAKE for swimming, that is low-key and relaxing. Preferably it would be within 2-3 hours drive from NYC/Northern NJ. I'm open to possibilities. It doesn't have to be fancy, and the budget would be about $300 for accommodations for 2 nights. I'd appreciate any suggestions!

I don't know anything about the place but a few months back I received a brochure from the Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY. I think it was about 90 minutes north of NYC.

The other option might Cazenovia, NY. I went there for a friends wedding and it was a nice little town. It's about 30 miles south of Syracuse.

This is the hotel we stayed at which is right on the lake.

http://www.thebrewsterinn.com/rooms.htm

Cazenovia is a good recommendation, as is Skaneateles, which is about a half hour to the west of Caz on Route 20. I prefer Skaneateles myself.

A vote for Skaneateles. I can't help with lodging but their lake setting and expressway access from your area would be perfect.

Mohonk is very beautiful, but it's a little pricey and the restaurant isn't great. Scenery, though, is really top notch.

Monhonk Mountain House is very expensive and both Cazenovia and Skaneateles are more than 3 hrs. from NYC I think. Skaneateles (very pretty) is over 4 hrs. from NYC according to mapquest.

Saratoga Springs would be closer but don't know of any hotels/resorts on a lake.