The hustle-bustle and rush that New York City offers are well-known. But did you know that there are several locations close to the city that you can visit for a day trip? Here are a few places to visit for fantastic day trips from NYC
Breakneck Ridge
Situated between Beacon, Cold Spring, and New York, Breakneck Ridge is a mountain range along the Hudson River.
It has several summits, with the highest one being almost 1,260 feet (384 meters) above sea level. It is a popular destination for hiking trails and camping sites that offer panoramic views of the area. If you are looking for a quick NYC day trip to climb high but not on a skyscraper, take the train to Breakneck Ridge!
Address: Philipstown, NY 10516, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SHiXMpbH3WqXAb2s9
Washington DC
A drive to Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is about four hours away from the Big Apple and offers the opportunity to travel through New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland en route.
Washington DC is a city that takes pride in its rich architecture and culture. Did you know? The city’s government buildings are inspired by the Greek, and Roman styles of architecture as these are the countries where democracy flourished. It is home to many stunning monuments, iconic memorials, and several museums that take you closer to the history of America.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/oxTAUVmBNnofAAo98
Fire Island
Fire Island is one of the best weekend getaway destinations for all New Yorkers and is extremely popular for LGBT+ centric parties.
Fire Island is a 32 miles (51 kilometers) wide island that receives maximum crowd during the summer months. It is also home to many picturesque island towns and has preserved beaches for as far as your eyes can see. If you are in the City and are looking for a relaxing day filled with the perfect balance of comfort and a carefree vibe, Fire Island is an excellent option for quick day trips from NYC.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/cgogG1dfXX9WzRVc8
Storm King Art Center
The Storm King Art Center, situated only 12 miles (19.3 kilometers) away from Beacon, is easily accessible via multiple routes from the City.
Spread across 500 acres (two square kilometers) of land, it is an open-air sculpture garden dedicated to supporting the local contemporary artists. It showcases sculptures from the 1950s to the present day. It also hosts events, talks, and exhibitions – perfect for a quick trip for art lovers!
Address: 1 Museum Rd, New Windsor, NY 12553, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 05:30 pm, Tuesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bmqws6Nm5j2JkE1y5 | Phone Number: +18455343115
Oyster Bay Festival
This festival is one of the most popular family-friendly festivals hosted in Long Island and is every seafood lover’s dream come true!
The Oyster Bay Festival is a waterfront festival and has a footfall of more than 150,000 attendees every year. It is a fun and balanced experience of new and interesting activities with the well-known oyster eating contest. There is entertainment, ships, pirate shows, midway rides, but what catches your attention instantly is the food court, where a range of delicacies of oysters and other seafood dishes are ready to be devoured.
Address: 1 West End Ave, Oyster Bay, NY 11771, United States | Timing: Saturday – Sunday: 11:00 am to 06:00 pm | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/2vZu1HkVPvj19Et36
Delaware River
The Delaware River passes through five states in the US. The point at which it meets the City is an appealing forested area called the Catskills region, which is located just two hours away.
You can hire a canoe to go down the Delaware River or take a casual stroll along the riverbank and experience tranquility and a calm atmosphere. So, the next time you get tired of the rush and push that the city exposes you to, head to Delaware River to experience one of the best weekend trips from NYC.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/WQHdYEHz5rQmYmpf7
Go Hiking at Bear Mountain
The superb trails at Bear Mountain await all thrill-seeking hiking and nature enthusiasts.
Apart from the adventure this mountain provides, it is also well-known for the Oktober fest that takes place during the months of September and October. With scores of lip-smacking German foods, gallons of craft beer, and electrifying music organized every weekend during the fest, Bear Mountain is extremely popular among all New Yorkers when it comes to partying.
By Jeffrey Johnson, CC BY-SA 2.0, Link
Address: Tomkins Cove, NY 10986, United States | Timing: 24/7 | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/7kJrJzXknm4CeYXQ9
Beacon
Located just 90 minutes away from NY, Beacon is a historic town that spells quintessential American charm in every nook and corner.
Several buildings from the Victorian era now serve as the home to local boutiques, museums, antique shops, bakeries, cafes, and restaurants. Visit this old city to immerse yourself in the almost regal vibe of the place, or simply chill and try artisanal beers at a local brewery.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/bq9tNLDUtLWtU1R58
Glass House
The Glass House is a noteworthy, contemporary building that is loved by all art and architecture enthusiasts. It was built in 1955 and is the perfect place to be in if you want to spend some time exploring a historic structure.
Along with the 20th-century art collection, it also has 14 other architectural marvels for you to discover. After the ticketed entry, you can walk around and explore the place by yourself, take the shuttle bus for a guided tour or simply sit back and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the Glass House. There are also places like the gallery where various events take place regularly for visitors to dive deeper into their love for architecture.
By Staib, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 199 Elm St, New Canaan, CT 06840, United States | Timing: 10:00 am to 04:00 pm, Tuesday – Wednesday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/issbTmkgxqLkbpwp9 | Phone Number: +12035949884
Philadelphia
If you wish to take a break from the fast-paced city, all you have to do is take a one-hour 35 minutes long train ride to Philadelphia, and voila, you will experience one of the best day trips from NYC!
Philadelphia is a uniquely charming place that has many open green spaces, giving it a small-town vibe. You can spend the day visiting well-known tourist spots like the Liberty Bell or Independence Hall or visit a couple of breweries that Philadelphia is famous for.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/6tuawzuentxWXLpc9
Greenwood Gardens
Greenwood Gardens is an expansive 28-acre garden with greenery all around. It is surrounded by 1,200 acres (five square kilometers) of parkland, which was earlier a private property, later converted public garden, and a non-profit conversation site.
Situated just 22 miles (35 kilometers) from the City, Greenwood Gardens hosts exciting events all around the year. Be it lectures on gardening or short sessions on holiday festivities, you will always find interesting discussions happening here. On one of your NYC day trips, make a beeline for Greenwood Gardens if you wish to spend time amidst nature. Trust us, you will not regret it!
By Lebrsm, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 274 Old Short Hills Rd, Short Hills, NJ 07078, United States | Timing: Friday – Sunday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm Monday – Thursday: Closed | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/v92eb3iftmWjXrv27 | Phone Number: +19732584026
Cape May
Known for its architectural diversity and serene beaches, Cape May, situated on the southern tip of the Cape May peninsula in New Jersey, is unique in its own way.
Here, the many places of interest include a grand Victorian home converted into a museum with a preserved interior maintained from the bygone era. The promenade, also referred to as the boardwalk runs parallel to Beach Avenue and goes on for about two miles (three kilometers), taking you on a scenic beach walk. Cape May also offers a range of shopping and dining options to all tourists to ensure that you do not miss out on anything.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/btQXmjQfzqm83wdJA
Princeton University Campus Tour
Just an hour-long drive away from the City lies one of America’s finest educational institutions – Princeton University.
Princeton is an Ivy League Research University founded in 1746. If historic buildings that tell great stories is your idea of a quick getaway, this colonial college that predates the American Revolution should definitely be on your list. Its walls radiate a legacy of rich history, knowledge, and eloquence, making the visitors revel in the palpable aura of education and enlightenment. If you are looking for admissions or simply want to visit an iconic university and its acres of verdant campus, the perfect place is just a drive away.
By Elisa Rolle, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: Princeton, NJ 08544, United States | Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/SvdSrL7GKeqyRrdY9 | Phone Number: +16092583000
Cold Spring
Located 50 miles north of Manhattan, Cold Spring is a 19th-century historic town with lush green landscapes and several hiking trails for beginners and experts.
Here, you can unwind away from the rush of the city and spend some quiet time along the Hudson River beach. You can also indulge in water-based adventures such as boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the river. The summer months here are delightful here. The Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival is hosted at an outdoor theater just a mile away in the nearby Garrison at the Boscobel House and Gardens.
By AdmOxalate, CC BY 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/EZZvtanorb2xr9kf8
Cornwall
Cornwall is a town located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from the north of the City. Its most visited destination is Storm King Mountain which is a significant landmark that attracts huge crowds.
From gift houses to restaurants and shops, this place has it all – ready and waiting for your next visit. The ways to reach Cornwall are many, and you can pick between a car, bus, or a train ride. It is situated along the Hudson River, and you can discover everything this place has to offer by car or on foot.
By Daniel Case, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/R3QYvXRvuedZpyfS8
Rockaway Beach
How would you like to experience an island vacay, just 21 miles (33 kilometers) from Manhattan? We’re talking about the Rockaway Beach!
Not technically an island, this beach sure has all the vibes and stunning views of the sea for as far as the eye can see. During the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day, this place is exploding with activities aligned for all visitors. On a summer day, you will spot enthusiastic swimmers, relaxed sunbathers, and surfers enjoying their time at the beach. You can go for a stroll on the Rockaway beach and feel the gentle waves touch your feet or discover finger-licking good dishes at the various eateries and shacks along the coast.
By Urielevy, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/81bsM3sbt1BT7jFn7
Atlantic City
If you are bored with the monotonous city life, Atlantic City is a fantastic destination that awaits you just two hours from New York.
Atlantic City is a resort city located in New Jersey and is primarily known for the casinos, beaches, and its iconic boardwalk. If you are looking for an entertaining option for your getaway, this place is a great option. You can catch popular comedy acts and live musical performances or go on a shopping spree at the high-end stores and then discover the nightclubs where the energy never drops.
Google Map Location: https://goo.gl/maps/3Bqo2G5T7Dq9ge9G8
From mountains to preserved forests, there are several diverse sites all around this vivacious city, waiting to be discovered by you. If you have been contemplating taking a short break and are considering the idea of stepping out of the town but cannot afford to be gone for too long, this list with day trips from the Big Apple will sure come in handy!
