Some nice places you guys may want to consider are:
Old Forge in the Adirondacks.
Lake George just north of Albany.
Stone Arch Bridge Historical Park in the Catskills.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and Worthington State Forest on I-80 NJ/PA border.
Considering the season, a weather check may be in order. For food, a nice BBQ will work just about anywhere. Just some ideas.