Dharma Drum Retreat Center

I cannot recommend this place enough. I recently attended a 3-​day beginner’s meditation retreat and all I can say is that is was clear that they wanted nothing from me; they only wanted to see me grow. The purpose of the retreat was to create an environment that would support everyone in their practice and would encourage mindfulness at all times.
The retreat was held in silence, which took some getting used to, but was ultimately very effective in creating the ultimate peaceful environment. Because it was a beginner’s retreat, there were some conversations held discussion style with the entire group.
The retreat was very affordable, especially for students. I wish I could afford to give them more than I did! The food is PHENOMENAL! With an all vegetarian menu, I overate at every meal because of how delicious and healthy everything was. In fact, when I first arrived, I had a cold. After eating such healthy food all weekend, I left feeling refreshed and cold-​free.
The retreat was led by Rikki Asher and Nancy Bonardi. They were both warm, happy, and wonderful teachers. They shared their wisdom openly, but also respected and learned from anything that those attending were willing to share.
There are many details about what type of programs are available on the website. I am looking forward to trying to find another opportunity to spend time on the beautiful campus.
I left feeling loved, peaceful, and inspired. I found a direction to take my practice in and I have felt more patient and compassionate toward the people in my life ever since.

Short version:
Peaceful location
Spacious chan (meditation) hall
Lovely pond and walking trails
Extremely friendly, helpful, and wonderful staff and monastics
GREAT vegetarian food
Affordable retreat options with individual dorms
Longer version:
I first went here 3 or 4 years ago for a beginner meditation instruction that was 2 day-​long sessions on back to back Saturdays. I choose this location because it was close to NYC and it was very affordable (the student discount is so inexpensive, I have a feeling they’re losing money). After the wonderful introduction by Buffe, I was hooked. It provided clear instruction in a relaxed manner. If you want more freedom and flexibility in easing into meditation practice, this is a great way to start!
Next, I went to a Young Person’s Workshop led by Chang Ji Fashi, which was a weekend long session that was half meditation practices and half workshops on environmental issues. There was chanting and singing in the mornings.
Then, I went to a 3 day weekend retreat led by Chang Wen Fashi. This had more time devoted to meditation and prepared me for something longer.
Most recently, I went on an intensive 7 day retreat led by Chi Chern Fashi which really deepen my practice. This is a big jump from the weekend ones, but now I’m excited to try a 10 day retreat in the future.
I was going to give more details but realize you can find the schedule of activities for the different types of retreats on their website when you sign up. So I’ll just end by reiterating my full and enthusiastic endorsement of Dharma Drum. I’d suggest you read a few of Sheng Yan’s books before (and after) you attend to help you bring meditation practice back from the center into your daily life.