day tours from new york

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The best day trips from New York City

The best day trips from New York City will take you to beautiful locations, fun wineries, outstanding museums and more.

The best day trips from New York City are how seasoned city dwellers escape and blow off steam. A change of scenery—whether a road trip , a weekend getaway or a shorter day trip you can do in just two hours from NYC—is a great way to clear your head and feel revitalized. But our list does something more: all of the highlighted destinations are not only excellent places to relax but offer an abundance of activities for both the adventurous and cultural set. Ready to get traveling?

RECOMMENDED: Find more things to do in spring ,  the best waterfront Airbnbs near NYC ,   the best boat rentals in NYC,   the best Airbnbs near breweries outside of NYC ,  the best beach hotels near NYC  and  the most unique Airbnbs in NYC

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Top day trips from NYC

1.  Woodstock, NY

Good for hippies at heart 2 hrs, 11mins by car

Though the name conjures a crowd splashed in tie-dye and the faint scent of marijuana, Woodstock isn’t actually where the 1969 festival was held. (That was in Bethel, about two hours away.) Even so, the town is a mix of retired hippies—a street there is named after the late great Band member Levon Helm—artists and city dwellers who feel the need to flee the metropolis on weekends. Woodstock the chance to connect with nature thanks to Overlook Mountain and its various trails as well as a healthy shopping scene with quaint local shops like Candlestock and the Golden Notebook and its weekend flea market, delicious food that can be found at places like Silvia and The Mud Cub and drinks at Station Bar & Curio .

2.  Beacon, NY

Good for small town fans 1hr 20mins by Metro-North

This quaint city in Dutchess County boasts an exceptionally good eating, drinking and art scene for its size. Walk five minutes from the train station to Dia:Beacon , a modern art museum housed in a former Nabisco box factory. It houses the Dia Foundation’s permanent collection of works from the ‘60s on, including minimalist sculpture by Anne Truitt and Dan Flavin’s work with fluorescent lights. If you’d rather spend the day sampling some booze,  Dennings Point Distillery on Main Street also offers tours and tastings of their bourbon, whiskey, gin and vodka every Friday and Saturday. Before you board the train back to the city, spend a few quiet minutes watching the sun set over the Hudson at Long Dock Park. 

3.  Kingston, NY

Good for townies, thrifters and history buffs. 1 hr 50 mins by car

Once a sleepy town, the city of Kingston is experiencing a reawakening with more residents moving in these days. Dating back to the arrival of the Dutch in 1652, Kingston has a rich history as the state's first capital. During the Revolutionary War, it was burned by the British and in the 19th century, it became a transportation hub, situated right on the Hudson. Despite the fire, you can still see the gorgeous First Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Kingston, which was organized in 1659, and many 17th century stone buildings, including the Senate House, which was built in the 1670s. The city is divided into different sections: Uptown, which includes the historic Stockade area; midtown, which is bisected by Broadway, the city’s main drag; and Rondout, near the creek and river, to the south, according to the New York Times . A handful of trendy stores and unique hangouts like Rough Draft , a bookstore and taproom, have opened recently as well as a number of restaurants slinging delicious food like Ship to Shore and Lola . The Ulster Performing Arts Center , inside a restored 1926 theater, regularly has events and the city is also home to a number of festivals, including the Kingston Jazz Festival and the Artists Soapbox Derby. The Trolley Museum of New York even offers 1.5-mile ride on weekends and holidays along the Rondout Creek waterfront to Kingston Point Park.

4.  Mohonk Preserve, NY

Good for hikers and nature enthusiasts 2 hrs by car

Picture this: over 8,000 acres of forests, cliffs, ponds and streams that are ideal for hiking, cycling, horseback riding, trail running, rock climbing and more. Just 90 miles north of New York City, in Ulster County, Mohonk Preserve is truly a nature lover's slice of paradise that, unlike most other hiking grounds, is also home to horseback riding opportunities within designated carriage roads that promise less foot traffic than other destinations. Make sure to start your day early to make a full day of it.

5.  New Paltz, NY

Good for those who want a mix of town and country 3hrs by LIRR or car

Beyond all the worth-the-trip views of riverside bluffs and verdant trees, New Paltz is the most historic on this list, with preserved houses that were around 100 years before we even became the U.S. of A. So, yeah. Pretty old. Learn about the lives of the 17th-century   Huguenot settlers , as performers (dolled up in duds from the period) take you through 30 buildings over 10 acres, including seven historic homes and a reconstructed 1717 church. (Want to retain the back-to-basics spirit as you take in the National Historic Landmark District? Leave the selfie stick at home.) 

6.  Phoenicia, NY

Good for everyone 2 hrs 50mins by car

Tucked into the Catskills, this Ulster County hamlet is a real melting pot, the kind of place where you can expect to see a conservative old-timer and a Brooklyn lumbersexual sipping Buds along the bar in perfect harmony. For every no-nonsense staple ( Phoenicia Diner ), there’s a hipster newbie ( the Graham & Co. ). Try Peekamoose if you want to be trendy—the restaurant is known as the “Gramercy of the Catskills.” If you’re looking to do something unique, float down the creek’s rapids—one of the most popular things to do in Phoenicia—or  hike at  Giant Ledge . The mellow, no-frills, hippie-dippie local culture makes it easy for anyone to relax here. 

7.  Cornwall, NY

Good for photo enthusiasts 1hr by car

With its rolling green hills and massive sculpture installations, Storm King Art Center is tailor-made for stunning photographs. Art aficionados and nature lovers alike will enjoy wandering the 500-acre art park featuring works from more than 100 artists including Alexander Calder and Maya Lin. Take the guided tram tour around the park once to get the lay of the land, then set off on foot or rent a bike for a day of exploring and Instagramming. Visitors can even climb inside a select number of the works. The artistic flair extends to the riverfront village of Cornwall-on-Hudson, where you can dine at the eclectic restaurant–art gallery combo Painter’s .

8.  Kerhonkson, NY

Good for hikers 2hrs by car

Between its rugged landscape and forested pine-barrens area, upstate has some stellar natural spots, and Minnewaska State Park Preserve is one of the best. The more than 22,000-acre spread has been converted into an egalitarian playground with 50 miles of trails, a new rock-climbing spot at the Dickie Barre cliffs, as well as old carriage roads well suited for mountain biking. Cool off with a swim in Lake Minnewaska or Lake Awosting, nestled between towering white bluffs and known for their translucent aquamarine color. Afterward, head to New Paltz for a break at the Water Street Market , where you can eat, shop, and take in art, outdoor movies on Monday nights (June–Aug) and free music on Tuesdays. Historic Huguenot Street is also worth a gander; the road features seven 300-year-old stone houses from the original settlement and provides a tangible glimpse at the history of the town.

9.  Cold Spring, NY

Good for outdoorsy folk 70mins by Metro-North

The Hudson Highlands have lush landscapes, peaks and breathtaking hikes for all levels. Little Stony Point Loop offers a relaxed jaunt along a flat peninsula where you can wade into the Hudson River at the beach. Explore old ruins, including a crumbled mansion and defunct dairy farm, on the gradually sloping, partially unpaved Cornish Estate Trail, which starts opposite Little Stony Point Loop, marked by blue blazes. While there’s plenty of shopping and dining to be done in town, the adventurous should tackle the steep climbs and rock scrambles that lead to the summit of Breakneck Ridge for an impressive 360-degree vista of Storm King Mountain, Bannerman Castle and, on clear days, the Catskills. For detailed guidebooks and maps, check out New York–New Jersey Trail Conference , Open Space Institute and Appalachian Mountain Club , and bring water and appropriate footwear, even for the simpler treks.

10.  Sleepy Hollow, NY

Good for history lovers 30–45mins by Metro-North to Tarrytown

Take a five-minute cab ride from the station to Philipsburg Manor Upper Mills living-history museum —a farm and mill dating back to 1750—to try hands-on activities. Staffers in period costume demonstrate grinding grain in the gristmill, threshing wheat and preparing goods for shipping with traditional instruments. The visit also provides a sobering reminder that slavery was not confined to the South, which guided tours highlight. Explore the dairy, kitchens and bed chambers in the main house, then bask in the rustic scenery from the bridge overlooking the pond. Take the 15-minute walk to the Bridge View Tavern for craft brews, pub grub, and views of the bridge and stretch of the Hudson River known as the Tappan Zee.

11.  Warwick, NY

Good for pickers 1 hr 30 mins by car

A day at the orchard sounds nice, right? Warwick’s main attraction is Masker Fruit Farms—a 200-acre orchard open for apple picking seven days a week. Swing by the country store on your way out to pick up apple butter and a jug of cider and do a wine tasting at Demarest Hill Winery before a relaxing jaunt around the historic town. 

12.  Ithaca, NY

Good for adventurers 4 hrs, 30 mins by car

Ithaca, on the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, is a college town through and through, but it's also got that rustic, upstate vibe and gorgeous fall foliage you're looking for with quaint Victorian homes to gaze at. It's a great getaway for those who want to go leaf-peeping and pumpkin picking but also want to check out the local town nightlife and its plethora of restaurants. The best part? It's near to some of New York's most incredible gorges and waterfalls. They don't say "Ithaca is gorges" for nothin'!

13.  Fire Island, L.I.

Good for sunseekers 1hr 30mins by LIRR and ferry

Once a haven for nude sunbathers, Fire Island’s federally managed beaches have made clothing very much mandatory since 2013. There’s still plenty of fun to be had on the 31-mile barrier island, including lifeguard-supervised, all-ages swimming on Sailors Haven, Watch Hill, Davis Park and Atlantique. Nature lovers might want to walk along the elevated boardwalk at Sunken Forest Preserve , a rare maritime ecosystem growing in the low spot between two sand dunes. Holly trees, sassafras, black cherry and prickly cat-briar all grow together in a tangle of vegetation. Staying through the evening? The bar scenes in Ocean Beach and Kismet draw crowds of attractive young professionals, while Cherry Grove and the Pines thrive with vibrant LGBTQ communities.

14.  Greenport, L.I.

Good for the townies at heart 3hrs by LIRR or car

This quaint fishing village on the North Fork of Long Island is a gorgeous little getaway not far from the city. Once you've passed the dozens of vineyards, you'll happen upon small storefronts and diners, ice cream shops, beautiful churches, and finally, a gorgeous merry-go-round right on the water. While you're there, you'll want to stop at Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market  for some beer and oysters, peruse vintage finds at The Times Vintage , and stop for ice cream at Sandpiper Coffee and Ice Cream Shop . While you're out that way, be sure to stop at Lavender by the Bay in East Marion to frolic among the purple blooms.

15.  Montauk, L.I.

Good for adventurers and sunseekers 2hrs 30mins by car, 3hrs 15mins by LIRR, 3hrs 30mins by Hampton Jitney

Known to tourists as “the End,” the chilled-out Hamptons village at the easternmost reach of the South Fork offers some of the best surfing in the region. Rent a board—fiberglass, foam or epoxy—and a wet suit from the family-owned Air and Speed Surf Shop . Drive your gear to Ditch Plains Beach for a lesson with local fixture and professional instructor Corey Senese . Towel off and refuel at Ditch Witch, a beloved food truck slinging breakfast burritos, addictive Asian sesame noodles and Zen Blend iced green tea. Before you head home, join everyone else in town at the Montauket, a neighborhood joint where you can sip a pint of Blue Point toasted lager while watching the sun melt into the rippling horizon of Fort Pond Bay.

16.  Bethlehem, PA

Good for gamblers 1 hr 44mins by car Take a walk on the wild side when you visit Bethlehem, Pennsylvania’s prime casino and resort: Wind Creek . Rattle the dice, try your luck on the slots, play table games or simply go for the cocktails. While there are ten fine dining options (including three Emeril’s eateries—bam!), we recommend hitting Main Street in historic Bethlehem for a bite. Enjoy a flight of sangria and eat small plates such as bacon-wrapped dates and, hummus ad burrata at Tapas On Main. Afterward, oblige your sweet tooth across the street at Penn State’s Creamy Ice Cream shop inside Hotel Bethlehem.

17.  Philadelphia, PA

Good for culture hounds 1hr 30mins by Amtrak, 2hrs by bus

Skip southward to shop Philly’s flourishing secondhand scene of vintage clothing shops and thrifty treasure spots. A few steps off South Street (but still not far from a cheesesteak) is Heres2CoolStuff , acclaimed for its colorful and inexpensive collection of men's and women’s apparel. For dapper gentlemen, Briar boasts a meticulously edited collection of classic Americana style, including tailored sport coats, varsity jackets and military boots alongside sartorial accessories (bowties, cufflinks, hats) and oddities for the curious collector. Don’t leave without hitting up what just might be every Macklemore fan’s fantasy come true: Bulk Vintage , a warehouse for hunters who don’t mind digging—literally—for retro duds sold at wholesale prices that rival any thrift shop north of Jersey. If you can’t make the public opening hours, make an appointment to rummage.

18.  Short Hills, NJ

Good for escape artists 45mins by car

Nudged up against the South Mountain Reservation, Greenwood Gardens  (which opens May 1, 2021) presents a tranquil, isolated escape. The grounds have been around since the early 1900s, but not until April 2013, following several years of renovation, did they open to the public. Begin at the orientation center, a redbrick revival Georgian manor, and proceed to a formal Italianate garden marked by stone terraces and wooden pergolas. Follow stone paths to the rustic Arts and Crafts–style cottages, then wind your way to the three-foot-tall limestone chess pieces lining the steps to the teahouse. Seek out the summerhouse on your own and admire the resident swans, chickens and goats, or join a guide on a 45-minute walking tour.

19.  Hamilton, NJ

Good for art aficianados 1hr 20mins by NJ Transit

Wandering amid the 270 pieces of contemporary art at Grounds for Sculpture , five minutes by cab from the Hamilton station, makes for a serene escape, with playful surprises around every corner. Visitors are encouraged to snoop for secret spots among the 42 picturesque acres, such as the hidden hammock room near the Nine Muses sculpture (take a snooze without fear—the door locks from the inside), and keep an eye out for the many peacocks. The park’s indoor gallery at Seward Johnson has four exhibits, including two site-specific glass installations by sculptor Daniel Clayman. End your day with upscale local cuisine at on-site restaurant Rat’s . Nibble on the mussels mouclade and the charcuterie platter, or sip a cocktail during happy hour. Imbibe on the patio overlooking a re-creation of Monet’s iconically depicted bridge in Giverny, or even bring your drink out into the park. 

20.  Washington, D.C.

Good for history buffs 3 hrs by Amtrak

Washington, D.C. really isn't as far away as you might think and it's chock-full of fun things to do, from touristy visits of historical monuments to hikes in the great outdoors and more. Don't miss the National Gallery of Art or Meridian Hill Park for some incredible art and sculptures, respectively, and head to the lush Rock Creek Park around your scheduled visits to see the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. When thirsty, stop by Archipelago for some tiki drinks and feast at Union Market or Rose's Luxury . Check out our guide to all things D.C. here .

21.  New Canaan, CT

Good for architecture fans 1hr 15mins by Metro-North

Architect Philip Johnson built a completely transparent modern home on his 47-acre estate in Connecticut in 1949, a feat that quickly brought him worldwide notoriety. You might also recognize his work from the sculpture garden at MoMA. After his death, the Glass House was opened to the public in 2007. Curious visitors can explore the property by buying a timed ticket to for the one-hour, two-hour or three-hour tour. Take in the sleek, spartan design, then head into town to spy some examples of classic New England architecture. There’s the one-room Little Red Schoolhouse, the Greek Revival Hanford-Silliman House and a replica of the original Cody Drug Store from 1918. Stop for a freshly made dulce de leche gelato at Gelatissimo before leaving town.

22.  Silvermine, CT

Good for wanderers 2 hrs by car

Located in southwest Connecticut, Silvermine isn’t a far trek from NYC, but it offers enough of an escape to be a perfect getaway. The historic town, dating back to the late 1600s, has largely centered around Silvermine Tavern , a historic mill that still hosts jazz weekends and wine dinners. The Silvermine River runs through the heart of the village. Stop at  The Silvermine Arts Center and wander Grace Farms, an 80-acre public nature preserve with a giant, prize-winning, river-inspired building designed by a Japanese firm. If you want more architecture, visit the modern and aptly named Philip Johnson Glass House.

23.  The Palisades, NJ

Good for bicyclists 30min by bike

Throw on your best Lululemon gear and head to the next state over for a cycling jaunt. If you don’t have your own set of wheels, stop by Tread Bike Shop ; rentals include helmets, and the friendly staff supplies sage advice for newbies. Set off and make your way through the hilly, neighborhood streets of Inwood and follow signs for the George Washington Bridge. Take in panoramic views of Manhattan while gliding over the Hudson via the bridge’s cyclist-and-pedestrian-only path. Veer left to stay on Henry Hudson Drive, the Palisades’ main bike path, which will take you along mountain roads past rustling trees and views of the water. At the bottom of the trail, riders will find grassy picnic areas on the river. The return ride back to the city is, mercifully, a simpler, mostly downhill ride. 

24.  Cape May, NJ

Good for nature lovers and village people 2hrs 30mins by NJ Transit bus

Aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher , you’ll skip into the Delaware Bay on a quest for dolphins, humpbacks and finbacks. The knowledgeable captain explains cetacean behaviors, such as spy hopping (popping the head up and holding the position to have a look around) and breaching (the classic Shamu jump-splash routine), and the company promises a free future trip if you don’t spot any marine mammals between spring and fall. Once you get your back on dry land, feast on seafood at Lucky Bones Backwater Grille , a local restaurant named for the hooklike claw found on male horseshoe crabs that superstitious sailors used to wear for a safe return. Continue your day with a friendly game of putt-putt at Cape May Miniature Golf . If you want to up the stakes, bet on who can get the lowest score; winner buys a round of Italian ices or sundaes from the ground’s old-school ice cream parlor, Cocomoe’s.

25.  Atlantic City, NJ

Good for sunseekers and history buffs 2hrs by car or 2hrs 30mins by bus The casino town remains lively as ever since Hurricane Sandy, and several new events and recent additions to the boardwalk prove it’s possible to spend a pleasant day here without ending up at the blackjack table. The annual Atlantic City Airshow provides an opportunity to sprawl on the beach while watching vintage planes take stomach-dropping nosedives over the ocean. After an afternoon of sunning yourself on the sand, sample the old-fashioned saltwater taffy at Fralinger’s on the boardwalk. The historic family-run business has been making the candy since 1884. Atlantic City is also home to Absecon Lighthouse , the tallest in New Jersey. For a nominal fee, you can climb the 228-step spiral staircase to the top of the tower and take in the sweeping views of the waves.

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The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

If you are looking for day trips from NYC, then we’ve got you covered! You can find anything from city breaks to shopping trips. Thanks to the fact that New York City is located in a convenient region, you have many choices when it comes to getaways from NYC!

You'll also love this:

• FREE TOOL: Which Day Trip from New York is the Best?
• The 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York
• The 9 Road Trips from New York

So if your schedule allows, you should definitely take a day trip from New York City. You have a wide choice of destinations and a variety of ways to get there. I’ve tried many guided tours (you’ll only find the best guided day trips on my list), I’ve traveled by train, by rental car, and even in an RV.

Table of Contents

27 Amazing Day Trips from New York

Here are my personal recommendations if you’re looking for the best weekend getaways and day trips from New York City!

Day Trip from NYC to Boston

This day trip to Boston takes you through one of Americas most interesting historical cities. Everything from architecture to monuments and historically significant spots make this tour a great choice for all history lovers. Boston is a beautiful city and a nice contrast to NYC, making it the perfect getaway for a day!

Distance: 220 Miles (4 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Boston, don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Boston on your day trip from New York

• stroll along Charles River Esplanade
• explore the famed Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• visit the famous Fenway Park ( this is the best tour )
• enjoy a coffee in Boston Common (I love this park!)
• enjoy a historical adventure and travel back in time to 1773 to be part of the famous Boston Tea Party

Places To See in Boston

• Museum of African American History
• New England Aquarium (perfect for families!)
• Museum of Fine Art
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Helpful links

If you looking for an accommodation check our this website and if you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

Day Trip from New York to Washington D.C.

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City. This guided bus tour starts at the Gray Line Visitors Center in Manhattan and the bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill. With so many things to learn and see this is one of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC.

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Washington D.C., don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Washington D.C. on your day trip from New York

• check out the Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour (500+ reviews!)
• Stroll through the neighborhood of Georgetown
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• visit the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial

Places To See in Washington D.C.

• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• National Mall
• United States Capitol
• Washington National Cathedral
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Day Trip from NYC to Philadelphia

Another worthwhile place to visit that’s close to NYC is Philadelphia. At just an hour and a half by train, it’s close enough that many Philadelphians commute to New York City for work daily. Though they are close, these two cities couldn’t have different ambiances; where New York is mainly made from concrete and is a large city, Philly has more green spaces and gives more of a small-town vibe.  

The main draw to this city is its importance in American history, which is evident in many areas of the city – especially the Old City district, which is a small section of the downtown area. Yet, Philadelphia is also home to more than historical landmarks, as you’ll also find exceptional art museums, Chinatown, a primarily Italian neighborhood in South Philly, and lots of gray skyscrapers mixed with industrial warehouses in the downtown section.  

Distance: 100 Miles (2 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Philadelphia, don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Philadelphia on your day trip from New York

• Hop over to Lancaster and take a horse-drawn buggy ride through Amish farm country.
• Visit Independence Hall, where the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.
• Tour the Museum of the American Revolution or the Benjamin Franklin Museum.
• Walk down Elfreth’s Alley. This road is America’s first residential street, dating back to 1702, and is home to many art galleries, shops, and restaurants today.  
• View the art collections at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts or the Philadelphia Museum of Art.  

Places To See in Philadelphia

• The Liberty Bell
• Betsy Ross House
• Franklin Square
• The Rocky Statue and the Rocky steps
• Eastern State Penitentiary

Want to see both?

You could also combine visiting these two amazing cities with this Private Washington & Philadelphia Tour in 1 Day .

Check Availability

Weekend getaway to Philadelphia & Amish Country

This tour combines several destinations at once: you will visit the most important sights of D.C. and Philadelphia and afterwards the interesting Amish Country. Departure is at the Gray Line Visitors Center.

This is what you can expect on this guided day trip from New York

• Philadelphia: Visit Constitution Hall and Independence Square
• Philadelphia: See the world-famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
• Philadelphia: Run up the “Rocky Steps”
• Washington D.C.: visit National Mall and Lincoln Memorial
• Take an authentic Amish buggy ride and visit a traditional market

Day Trips from NYC to Niagara Falls

If you are in New York and are thinking about planning a day trip, then I can recommend a trip to Niagara Falls. I myself have been to Niagara Falls several times from New York and was always impressed by this natural spectacle.

My tip: These are the 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York .

Day Trip from NYC to Albany

Albany is New York’s capital city and is not just the oldest city in the state, but it’s one of the oldest in the nation. English immigrants took control of Albany, NY, in 1664 and named it after the Duke of Albany. By the early 1800s, the city was the 10th largest in the country, which is a title that San Jose, CA, took. The area’s growth was fueled by the creation of the Erie Canal and the railroad, and it continued to serve as a vital transportation hub until the early 1900s.

Hence, as you can see, this area has an extensive history, and there are many local attractions that help provide excellent learning experiences for newbies. Today, this capital city and college town is home to about 100,000 people and has something for everyone.

Distance: 150 Miles (2,5 hours by car) 

Things to do in Albany on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy local flavors such as Chicken Joe’s, Pint-Sized, and Madison Pour House.  
• Stroll through the Albany Institute of Art & History.
• Ride a bike at the historic Washington Park.
• See a show at the Capital Repertory Theater.
• Hike Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

Places to see in Albany on your day trip from New York.

• John Boyd Thacher State Park
• The Capitol Building
• Empire State Plaza
• Schuyler Mansion
• Corning Tower Observation Deck

If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

Day Trip from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is a 5,067-acre park that’s located just one hour away from New York City. It’s home to many sights such as Bear Mountain, Dunderberg Mountain, West Mountain, and the Iona Island Bird Sanctuary. This is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from city life for a day and enjoy nature and the outdoors instead.

Here you’ll enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, boating, biking, fishing, and bird watching. You’ll find many state-of-the-art recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, playfield, biking and hiking trails, fishing access, the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and much more. This is a great place to go sledding, ice skating, or cross-country skiing in the winter.

Distance: 50 Miles (1 hour by car)

Day Trip from NYC to the Hamptons

A really great day trip is this trip to the famous Hamptons on Long Island. We have already done this tour and were thrilled. What is so great about this day trip to the Hamptons? You experience a completely different side of New York and can go shopping in the Tangier Outlets!

Which Road Trip or Day Trip from New York is the Best?

Check out my free road trip advisor that will help you choose from over 30 road trips and day trips to suit your needs!

Day Trip from NYC to Rockaway Beach

Located just over 20 miles from Manhattan, you’ll find Rockaway Beach tucked away in Queens. Though it’s known as Rockaway Beach, this destination encompasses several beaches between 3rd Street and 153rd Street. It is renowned for being the best beach destination close to New York City, so it merits the hour-long subway ride from downtown Manhattan.

If you visit this area in the high season from the end of May through Labor Day, then you can expect to find many surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers enjoying the water and sun. While it’s most popular in the summer, Rockaway Beach makes for a refreshing place to visit any time of the year.

Distance: 25 Miles (1 hour by car | 1,5 hour by subway lines A S to “Beach 105 St”)

Things To Do at Rockaway Beach

• Take in the invigorating ocean smells as you walk along the sandy beaches.  
• Stop for a drink or snacks at one of the numerous food stands or casual eateries on the Beach Boardwalk.  
• Go on an expedition and explore some abandoned buildings.
• Tan and swim at the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk.

Places To See at Rockaway Beach

• Jacob Riis Park
• Rockaway Community Park
• Bayswater Park

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the Finger Lakes

New York’s Finger Lakes region spans an area that encompasses 11 lakes in an area that was once covered by glaciers. In addition to the lakes, this region is also home to many natural pools, gorges, waterfalls, wineries, and state parks. The two most popular lakes are the deepest and largest: Cayuga Lake is 435 feet deep and is in Ithaca, while Seneca Lake is 618 feet deep and is found in the Watkins Glen State Park.

Many consider this the most underrated part of New York and makes for a great day trip away from New York City. It’s perfect for nearly everyone as the region has plenty of things to see and do.

Distance: 260 Miles (5 hours by car)

Things to do in the Finger Lakes Region on your day trip from New York

• Go on a wine tasting tour.  
• Take in a game at NBT Bank Stadium.
• Enjoy dinner and sunset on a boat cruise.

Places To See on your Day Trip from New York

• Watkins Glen State Park (the trail is amazing!)
• Robert Treman State Park
• Rosamond Gifford Zoo
• Corning Museum of Glass

Day Trip from NYC to Baltimore

Baltimore is the capital of the US state of Maryland with a long and important history. It is somewhat comparable to Boston and yet it has its own charm.

During my roadtrip along the east coast of the USA, Baltimore landed on my itinerary for the first time. Due to its location by the ocean, it has its very own charm and is especially interesting for those who already know Boston and Washington. From New York you can reach Baltimore in about 3 to 4 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Distance: 200 Miles (3 – 4 hours by car) 

If you decide to visit Baltimore, here are some things to see and do:

Things to do in Baltimore on your day trip from New York

• Do a craft-beer brewery tour or whiskey tasting tour (Baltimore is famous for both!)
• Enjoy beautiful river views at the Inner Harbor …
• … or from high above when visiting Top of the World Observation Level
• Take photos of Historic Ships in Baltimore

Places To See

• National Aquarium
• Reginald F. Lewis Museum
• Port Discovery Children’s Museum
• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Day Trip from NYC to Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley

Cold Spring is renowned for being one of the best-preserved towns from the 19th Century and is just a 90-minute train ride from New York City. Once here, you’re greeted by a charming country village that was once a picturesque historic center created along the banks of the Hudson River.

Visitors enjoy spending the day in Cold Spring because the small downtown area is lined with antique stores, boutiques, and restaurants. During the summer, it’s common to find residents lining the streets enjoying coffee at one of the numerous sidewalk cafes or enjoying drinks and live music at one of many riverfront restaurants with an outdoor patio. Yet, this area is also home to many parks and hiking and biking trails.

Distance: 65 Miles (1,5 hour by car)

Things to do in Cold Spring on your Day Trip from New York

• In the fall, sign up for a foliage cruise.
• In the summer, go paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, and more.
• Tour the Boscobel House and Gardens.
• Hudson Highlands State Park
• Bannerman Castle
• Little Stony Point

Shopping Day Trip to the American Dream Mall

Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall. After many years of waiting and constant delays, the massive shopping and entertainment complex are already open.

The American Dream complex is much more than just a mall. Besides hundreds of shops, you will also find an unbelievable number of entertainment facilities here. As a matter of fact, the complex is almost split evenly amongst shopping and entertainment.

Day Trip from NYC to Mohonk Preserve

Located in the town of New Paltz, New York, you’ll find a private 8,000-acre nature preserve that’s highly popular among tourists and residents alike. The Mohonk Preserve is located on the slopes of the Shawangunk Mountains, which are part of the Appalachians. At just over 90-miles from New York City, Mohonk Preserve is close and well worth the visit.

Here you’ll find a diverse environment of cliffs, ponds, streams, and old forests. The Mohonk Preserve is home to over 70 miles of carriage road and nearly 40 miles of trailers for skiing, horseback riding, hiking, and biking.

Distance: 90 Miles (2 hours by car)

Things to do in Mohonk Preserve on your day trip from New York

• Hike one of the many trails and watch for various species of the over 1,400 animal and plant varieties that call the preserve home.  
• Follow the Lost City Loop Trail.
• Explore Split Rock swimming hole
• Mohonk Mountain House
• Labyrinth Trail
• Skytop Tower

Day Trip from NYC to New Haven

New Haven is a quaint community located in Connecticut in the Long Island Sound and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from NYC for a day. In fact, New Haven is only about two hours from Manhattan, so the trip is relatively easy and painless. And the best part is that this area has a lot to offer! From imaginative art and delicious cuisine to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone.

You’ll appreciate that New Haven offers a much calmer feeling than that of the hustle and bustle found in New York City.

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

If you decide to visit New Haven, here are some things to see and do:

Things to do in New Haven on your day trip from New York

• Tour the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
• Ride the carousel at Lighthouse Point Park.
• Enjoy a show at Shubert Theater.
• Yale University
• East Rock Park
• Five Mile Point Light

Day Trip from NYC to Hamilton Township

Hamilton Township is the 9th largest town in New Jersey, but the area is comfortably spread out over 40 square miles. This region is home to more than 64 state parks, playgrounds, and acres of preserved land. Within just one hour of NYC, Hamilton is a great place to take a day trip.

Hamilton, New Jersey, is fun for anyone looking to visit historical parks or attend local community events such as the yearly Oktoberfest. This town enjoys a bustling and local economy with large retail centers and small retail shops alike; Hamilton is one town that caters to just about everyone’s wallet.

Distance: 60 Miles (1,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Hamilton Township on your day trip from New York

• Explore the Sayan House and Gardens.  
• Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad.
• Spend an hour or two meandering around the Art Museum at Princeton University.

Places To See in Hamilton Township

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Shaky Bridge
• Tulpehaking Nature Center

Day Trip from NYC to The Palisades

The Palisades is located in Bergen County and overlooks the Hudson River. The park is roughly 12 miles long, covers 2,500 acres, and is a half-mile wide. Inside this park, you’ll find over 30 miles of ski and hiking trails, boat launching ramps, a scenic overlook, and riverside drive, waterfront picnic areas, historic sites, and much more.

The Palisades Interstate Park is a National Historical and National Natural Landmark, so this is one place that should be on your bucket list!

Distance: 16 Miles (1/2 to 1 hour by car | 40 minutes by train)

Things to do in the Palisades on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy the views at the State Line Lookout.
• Take a tour of the Kearney House.
• Hike through the Closter Nature Center.
• Alpine Lookout
• Women’s Federation Monument
• Untermyer Gardens

Day Trip from NYC to Phoenicia

Phoenicia, New York, is a hidden gem located in the beautiful Hudson Valley. This Catskills town is an off-the-beaten-path and home to a collection of natural attractions and acclaimed dining establishments. Located just two and a half hours from New York City, this area has more than enough corners to explore during a day trip.

Between the close proximity to Manhattan and gorgeous scenery, this is a popular area in the summer months. Yet, Phoenicia is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, as there are always activities such as shopping, dining, and exploring the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains.

Distance: 130 Miles (2 – 2,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Phoenicia on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy a meal at the Phoenicia Diner.  
• Tube down the Esopus.
• Take a hike through the Mount Tobias forest.

Places To See in Phoenicia

• World’s largest kaleidoscope
• Catskills scenic drive
• Downtown Phoenicia

Shopping Day Trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet

Less than 1 hour from Manhattan you will find the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. With over 220 designer stores like Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Timberland and more, this is definitely the place to go on a shooping spree. You will leave from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street at 8th Avenue) and take the bus for a swift ride there and back.

Distance: 55 Miles (1 hour by car / by bus)

Day Trip from NYC to Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is known by many as the “Queen City of the Hudson,” as it is located on the banks of the Hudson River in the scenic Hudson Valley. This area was established during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, but today it’s a bustling college town that’s also popular with tourists.

Located just an hour and forty-five minutes from NYC, Poughkeepsie is the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and fine dining spots. Additionally, the area is home to 22 parks, so there are lots of green spaces to spend the day.

Distance: 85 Miles (2 hours by car)

Things to do in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York

• Experience the walkway over the Hudson River.
• Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before heading to the Bardavon Opera House to enjoy a show.  
• Take a tour of Samuel Morse Locust Grove Estate.

Places to see in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York

• Historic Huguenot Street
• Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
• Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum

Day Trip from NYC to Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is situated just 30 miles north of New York City and makes for a great day trip away from the stress of the city. This famed town inspired one of America’s most famous books, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” by Washington Irving. Located in the gorgeous Hudson Valley in Westchester County, this is one of the nation’s cutest towns and makes for an unforgettable experience.

This is a great destination for anyone looking to take in some nature, view historical sites, or even go on a ghost tour. After all, Sleepy Hollow is known as one of the most haunted towns in America, with legends dating back to the original Dutch settlement in the 1600s!

Distance: 35 Miles (1 hour by car) 

Things to do in Sleepy Hollow on your day trip from New York

• Take photos at the Headless Horseman’s Bridge.
• Visit the Dutch Reform Church.
• Experience history at Philipsburg Manor.

Places To See in Sleepy Hollow

• Headless Horseman statue
• Sunnyside Estate
• Kykuit – Former Rockefeller home

Day Trip from NYC to Ithaca

Ithaca is the largest city found in New York’s Finger Lakes region. This is a lovely town and is an excellent place to visit with many things to do. Set along the southern end of Cayuga Lake, this location is famed as the home of Cornell University, countless gorges, and more than 150 waterfalls.

Though Ithaca is home to a sizable portion of college students and the city conveys more of a youthful feel, it’s also steeped in history and full of fascinating historic sites and buildings. This is an excellent destination for outdoor activities as it’s home to a plethora of state parks, but it’s also a great place to relax, shop, and dine.

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car) 

Things to do in Ithaca on your day trip from New York

• Explore the city, and don’t be afraid to try local flavors such as Gimme Coffee, One Ring Donuts, and the Ithaca Farmers Market.  
• “Ithaca is gorges,” so be sure to take a hike at one of the many state parks.  
• Enjoy your evening hours at Firelight Campfire Lounge.

Places To See in Ithaca

• Cornell University Campus
• Taughannock Falls
• West End District

Weekend Getaway from NYC to Martha's Vineyard

If you’re looking to venture a bit further from NYC, then you should consider going to Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Martha’s Vineyard is an island that rests seven miles off of Cape Cod, Massachusetts’ southern coast. At a little over five hours, getting there is half the adventure.

The island is just 100 square miles and is a famous summer colony, but it also has a year-round population of around 17,000 residents. The island consists of six towns: Edgartown, Aquinnah, Tisbury, West Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, and Chilmark.

Distance: 270 Miles (6 hours by car and ferry) 

Things to do at Martha’s Vineyard on your day trip from New York

• Keep an eye out for celebrities – everyone from Meg Ryan and Seth Meyers to the Obamas are known to frequent the area.  
• Spend a few hours exploring Oak Bluffs.  
• Take a walking tour of Edgartown.  
• Gingerbread Houses
• The Island’s five lighthouses
• Alley’s General Store

Shopping Day Trip to the Garden State Plaza Mall

This mall is the largest in the state of New Jersey. In the small town of Paramus, New Jersey you will find the answer to your shopping cravings. Due to the mall being in New Jersey you don’t need to pay any taxes on clothing and shoes making this mall a bargain hunters dream.

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the White Mountain National Forrest

If you’re looking for a day trip that puts you in the middle of nature, then you’ve found it in this region! The White Mountain National Forest spans from western Maine into eastern New Hampshire and is just a short five-hour drive from Manhattan. Here you’ll marvel at the majestic alpine peaks and mountainous hardwood forests.

Visitors can expect to experience breathtaking scenery, wildlife, clear mountain streams, and lakes, as well as take part in outdoor recreational activities all year.

Distance: 300 Miles (5 – 6 hours by car) 

Things to do in the White Mountains on your day trip from New York

• Hike to Arethusa Falls, which is New Hampshire’s tallest waterfall.  
• Go skiing during the winter down Cannon Mountain.
• Rent a rustic cabin at one of the many sites throughout the forest.  
• Conway scenic railway
• Polar Caves Park
• Cranmore Mountain Resort

Day Trip from NYC to Atlantic City

Since gambling was legalized in the 1970s, Atlantic City has claimed its place in the industry. The city attracts many visitors yearly who want to try their luck at the slots and tables, but it’s also popular among tourists looking to sunbathe on the beach. If you can imagine combining a Jersey Shore beach vacation with a bit of Las Vegas, then you can imagine what Atlantic City is like.

Today, you’ll find many upscale boutiques, luxury hotels, and trendy nightclubs. And while Atlantic City isn’t as crazy as Vegas and you won’t find Florida’s white-sand beaches, it’s still a worthwhile day trip.

Distance: 125 Miles (2 hours by car) 

Things to do in Atlantic City on your day trip from New York

• Take a stroll along the famed boardwalk.
• Hop on some rides at the Steel Pier.
• Spend a few hours at the Atlantic City Aquarium, or try your luck at one of the numerous casinos.  

Places To See in Atlantic City

• Lucy the Margate Elephant
• War memorials
• Absecon Lighthouse

Day Trip from NYC to Ocean City

Ocean City is not only affordable, but it’s also more kid-friendly than other comparable destinations and is known for specializing in American family beach vacations. There are so many things to do in this city that you’ll have difficulty narrowing down an itinerary.

From the boardwalk and its amusement rides to the powdery beaches and delicious seafood eateries, there is no shortage of establishments in Ocean City.

Here are some things you’ll want to check out during your stay:  

Things to do in Ocean City on your day trip from New York

• Grab a snack and ride some amusement park rides at the boardwalk.
• Eat breakfast at Fractured Prune Donuts.
• Spend a day having fun on the water with Paradise Watersports.

Places To See in Ocean City

• Jolly Roger Amusement Park
• Art League of Ocean City
• Northside Park

Our Favorite City Breaks

Of course, New York made it to the top of your list, but considering the size of the country, other big cities are not too far away. Whether you’d like to take a day trip from NYC to the nation’s capital Washington D.C. , explore the history of the beginning of the nation in Philadelphia or want to head up North to go to Boston – all those can be conquered in a single day! Other popular day trips from NYC that are easily accessible include Atlantic City.

Day Trip to Washington D.C.

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City. The bus tour starts at the Gray Line Visitors Center in Manhattan and the bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill. With so many things to learn and see this is one of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC.

Day Trip to Boston

This day trip to Boston takes you through one of Americas most interesting historical cities. Everything from architecture to monuments and historically significant spots make this tour a great choice for all history lovers. Boston is a beautiful city and a nice contrast to NYC, making it the perfect getaway for a day! The bus will leave from the Gray Line Visitors Center and take approximately 4 hours.

Philadelphia Day Trip from New York

This day trip will take you from New York to Philadelphia. In the heart of the historic city, the famous Liberty Bell, Constitution Square and Constitution Hall are waiting to be discovered. Of course, the famous steps from the movie “Rocky” and the Parque del Amor and City Hall are not missing. In short, you will definitely see all the highlights that Philadelphia has to offer.

Looking for an even more luxurious tour? Check out this Private Day Trip to the Hamptons here .

Atlantic City

Since gambling was legalized in the 1970s, Atlantic City has claimed its place in the industry. The city attracts many visitors yearly who want to try their luck at the slots and tables, but it’s also popular among tourists looking to sunbathe on the beach. If you can imagine combining a Jersey Shore beach vacation with a bit of Las Vegas, then you can imagine what Atlantic City is like. 

Today, you’ll find many upscale boutiques, luxury hotels, and trendy nightclubs. And while Atlantic City isn’t as crazy as Vegas and you won’t find Florida’s white-sand beaches, it’s still a worthwhile day trip. 

Ocean City is not only affordable, but it’s also more kid-friendly than other comparable destinations and is known for specializing in American family beach vacations. There are so many things to do in this city that you’ll have difficulty narrowing down an itinerary. 

From the boardwalk and its amusement rides to the powdery beaches and delicious seafood eateries, there is no shortage of establishments in Ocean City. 

During my roadtrip along the east coast of the USA, Baltimore landed on my itinerary for the first time. Due to its location by the ocean, it has its very own charm and is especially interesting for those who already know Boston and Washington. From New York you can reach Baltimore in about 3 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Albany is New York’s capital city and is not just the oldest city in the state, but it’s one of the oldest in the nation. English immigrants took control of Albany, NY, in 1664 and named it after the Duke of Albany. By the early 1800s, the city was the 10th largest in the country, which is a title that San Jose, CA, took. The area’s growth was fueled by the creation of the Erie Canal and the railroad, and it continued to serve as a vital transportation hub until the early 1900s. 

Hence, as you can see, this area has an extensive history, and there are many local attractions that help provide excellent learning experiences for newbies. Today, this capital city and college town is home to about 100,000 people and has something for everyone. 

Distance: 150 Miles (2,5 hours by car)

New Haven is a quaint community located in Connecticut in the Long Island Sound and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from NYC for a day. In fact, New Haven is only about two hours from Manhattan, so the trip is relatively easy and painless. And the best part is that this area has a lot to offer! From imaginative art and delicious cuisine to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone. 

You’ll appreciate that New Haven offers a much calmer feeling than that of the hustle and bustle found in New York City. 

Phoenicia, New York, is a hidden gem located in the beautiful Hudson Valley. This Catskills town is an off-the-beaten-path and home to a collection of natural attractions and acclaimed dining establishments. Located just two and a half hours from New York City, this area has more than enough corners to explore during a day trip. 

Between the close proximity to Manhattan and gorgeous scenery, this is a popular area in the summer months. Yet, Phoenicia is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, as there are always activities such as shopping, dining, and exploring the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains. 

Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is known by many as the “Queen City of the Hudson,” as it is located on the banks of the Hudson River in the scenic Hudson Valley. This area was established during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, but today it’s a bustling college town that’s also popular with tourists. 

For Nature Lovers

As you know, we like to refer to New York as the concrete jungle but even though you can find lots of green spaces in the city, you may have the desire to experience more nature during your trip. So why not take a day trip from NYC and head to the Niagara Falls or Bear Mountain ? Depending on how much time you have, you can choose from 1-day or 2-day getaways from NYC.

01 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: White Mountains

If you’re looking for a day trip that puts you in the middle of nature, then you’ve found it in this region! The White Mountain…

02 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is a 5,067-acre park that’s located just one hour away from New York City. It’s home to many sights such as…

03 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Martha's Vineyard

If you’re looking to venture a bit further from NYC, then you should consider going to Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Martha’s Vineyard is an…

04 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Niagara Falls

The tour to Niagara Falls is super beautiful: you will not only see the famous falls themselves, but also Watkins Glen National Park!

05 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Finger Lakes Region

New York’s Finger Lakes region spans an area that encompasses 11 lakes in an area that was once covered by glaciers. In addition to the…

06 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: The Palisades, NJ

The Palisades is located in Bergen County and overlooks the Hudson River. The park is roughly 12 miles long, covers 2,500 acres, and is a…

07 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Cold Spring

Cold Spring is renowned for being one of the best-preserved towns from the 19th Century and is just a 90-minute train ride from New York…

08 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Mohonk Preserve

Located in the town of New Paltz, New York, you’ll find a private 8,000-acre nature preserve that’s highly popular among tourists and residents alike. The…

Shopping Trips

New York is home to the world’s most famous stores and you’ll probably find everything you need. However, there is an incentive to take a day trip from New York to go shopping: saving money if you’re thinking about serious shopping! The most popular outlets in the area are the Woodbury Common Outlet in Central Valley, New York, and the Jersey Gardens Outlet in Elizabeth, New Jersey. You’ll also find the Garden State Plaza Mall  nearby as well as the soon (fingers crossed!) to be finished American Dream Mega Mall .

01 Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip

Less than 1 hour from Manhattan you will find the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. With over 220 designer stores like Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet,…

02 American Dream

Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall.…

03 The Hamptons, Sag Harbor & Outlet Shopping Day Trip from NYC

A really great day trip is this trip to the famous Hamptons on Long Island. We have already done this tour and were thrilled. What…

04 Jersey Gardens Outlet Center

Not far from New York City is the Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall with over 200 shops, a large food court, restaurants and a cinema. The…

The 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York by Bus

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

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Best day trips from nyc.

New York City offers endless things to do for travelers, but it's also a good home base for exploring other spots along the Eastern Seaboard. Whether you're looking for a quiet small town or a day at the beach, you'll find a variety of options within a few hours of the city. U.S. News considered activities, transportation options and distance to come up with the best day trips from NYC. Got a favorite? Vote below to help decide next year's list.

Philadelphia

The catskills, fire island, atlantic city, rockaway beach, ny, governors island.

About 100 miles south of NYC, the nation's first capital city is rife with activities for all types of travelers. Culture hounds can wander the Philadelphia Museum of Art, history buffs can sightsee at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center and everyone will enjoy the food at Reading Terminal Market. Philly can easily be reached by bus, train or car.

Situated about 140 miles north of New York City, this mountain region is perfect for exploring the great outdoors year-round. During the warmer months, travelers can camp, hike and fish around the various towns and lakes, while autumn is perfect for taking scenic drives to admire the fall foliage and covered bridges. Come winter, this vacation spot is a convenient option for skiing and snowboarding.

About 180 miles northeast of NYC, Providence is a slightly farther trip, but it can be reached by car, bus or train. This city offers a walkable downtown and a mix of historic and cultural attractions. You could spend a full day exploring the RISD Museum, but save time to admire the colonial homes along Benefit Street before dining on Italian cuisine in Federal Hill.

A drive of about 160 miles down the Garden State Parkway will land you in this delightful Jersey Shore town. You can spend the day lounging on the clean beaches or meandering through the National Historic Landmark District (the only entire U.S. city to be designated as such) to see the grand, colorful Victorian homes.

This seaport village at the mouth of the Mystic River has been around since the 17th century. Today, it's home to two of Connecticut's most-visited attractions: The Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium. After a day of sightseeing, head to Mystic Pizza, the restaurant that inspired the 1988 movie starring Julia Roberts, before driving the 130 miles back to NYC.

The capital of Connecticut sits less than 120 miles north of NYC and is accessible via train, bus or car. The city is home to a range of historical attractions that literary fans will love, including the Mark Twain House & Museum, which dates back to 1874. If literary history doesn't interest you, you can also take your pick of golf courses in the area.

Sitting about 60 miles east of the heart of New York City, this barrier island is an ideal summertime retreat for those who don't want to splurge on a Hamptons vacation. You can easily spend the day lounging along the Fire Island National Seashore or Robert Moses State Park. Once the sun sets, head to Ocean Beach to enjoy the island's famous nightlife.

The famous Atlantic City boardwalk is only about 120 miles south of NYC, meaning it’s possible to spend the day at the beach without having to spend the night. If you do want to make a weekend out of it, though, you’ll have plenty of hotels to choose from, as well as casinos, restaurants and spas.

For a quick jaunt to the beach, head to this stretch of sand in Queens. This family-friendly beach is home to the city's only surfing areas as well as a boardwalk, several playgrounds and plenty of affordable eats. You can reach Rockaway Beach via the A train or take the scenic ferry for only $2.75 one-way.

Located a stone’s throw from Manhattan (800 yards) and from Brooklyn (400 yards), this 172-acre island is accessible via ferry from either the Battery Maritime Building (Manhattan) or Pier 6 (Brooklyn) for $2 round-trip fare. The island is a great place to spend the day biking, walking, zip lining or attending a festival, but keep in mind it’s only open May through October.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Wilmington, DE

Sleepy Hollow

The Berkshires

The Hamptons

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The 6 best day trips from New York City

Sep 21, 2023 • 6 min read

Go beyond New York City with these great day trips, all under two hours away © Steve Prezant / Getty Images

If there's one thing New York City does better than most other US destinations, it's overloading the senses.

Should you want to escape the Big Apple to unplug from the noise and disconnect from the constant activity, you only need a full tank of gas or a ride on  the city’s public transportation . Within two hours of the city, you can find a complete change of scenery: step away from technology in the forests, soothe your serotonin levels in the sand or get cultured in upstate museums. Here’s our pick of the best day trips from NYC.

1. Free your spirit in Woodstock, New York

Travel time: 2 hours

Although the infamous 1969 music festival took place on a dairy farm in Bethel, tie-dye is still found in Woodstock, a New York town filled with independent art and the bounteous nature of Catskill Park. It's the perfect destination for getting into the great outdoors by taking a hike up  Overlook Mountain and enjoying expansive vistas of red spruce, balsam fir trees and red oak.

A ban on chain stores keeps this town feeling free-spirited and Tinker St, Woodstock’s main drag, entices travelers with unique gift stores and cafes. The town has a plethora of restaurant choices, but for an extra special breakfast, take a 20-minute drive to  Phoenicia Diner , an elevated restaurant known for its unbelievable pancakes. It even has its own cookbook and take-home pancake mix should you miss them when you return to NYC.

How to get to Woodstock from New York City: It takes two hours by car to get to Woodstock. Alternatively, a direct bus runs to Woodstock from Port Authority, which takes two hours and 45 minutes.

2. Take a luxury trip to Bedford-Katonah, New York

Travel time: 1 hour

Hemmed in by the navy waves of Long Island Sound and the blue of the Hudson River, lush Westchester County is the ideal place to recharge. Hone in on Bedford-Katonah, a trio of sleepy hamlets with quaint downtowns that lean back onto a pillow of rolling green hills.

Start at the Katonah Museum of Art , known for showing up-and-coming and established modern artists in a small but innovative setting. Afterward, an eight-minute drive takes you to the  Bedford Post , an eight-room luxury hotel owned by Richard Gere that hosts restorative yoga classes and sound baths in The Loft. 

Finish with a meal at The Barn, one of the on-site restaurants. This casual and charming wood-beamed room has a lovely porch for eating alfresco.

How to get to Bedford-Katonah from New York City: Take the Metro-North Harlem Line to Katonah Station. A short taxi ride gets you to the Katonah Museum of Art. The trip takes about one hour by train.

3. Hit the beach in Asbury Park, New Jersey 

Travel time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Synonymous with rocker Bruce Springsteen , the Jersey Shore beach town of Asbury Park is the ideal NYC day trip destination. Its renovated boardwalk crowns a mile-long freeway of golden sand and sparkling blue waters. Add in a slew of trendy restaurants and impeccable independent shopping opportunities and you may not even want to go back to New York.

As well as spending time on the beach, don’t miss the  Wooden Walls Project , a public art initiative started in 2015 consisting of large-scale murals. If you have time, check who's playing at the legendary rock venue  Stone Pony .

The restaurant credited with transforming the Asbury Park food scene is upscale pizza spot,  Porta . Make a reservation in advance.

How to get to Asbury Park from New York City: The quickest way to get to Asbury Park is by car (one hour, 15 minutes). You can also take the NJ Transit train (from Penn Station to Bay Head) or the NJ Transit bus (Port Authority to Asbury Park Transportation Center).

4. Admire the artworks in Beacon, New York

Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

A hotbed of creativity in a historical blue-collar town, Beacon has art, fine dining and shopping all along the Hudson River. 

A stop at  Dia Beacon is a must on a day trip to Beacon. The light-filled 300,000-sq-ft gallery space in a converted factory hosts conceptual large-scale art by Gerard Richter, Louise Bourgeois and Richard Serra.  Storm King Art Center , a 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden, is a short drive away, bringing together fine art and fresh air.

The most charming setting to eat is Roundhouse , a farm-to-table restaurant overlooking a waterfall. Inventive favorites like spicy lobster mac and cheese pair nicely with a signature cocktail or a glass of wine. After your meal, stroll up the street to the trendy  HÅKAN Chocolatier for artisanal chocolate that's worth the trip alone.

How to get to Beacon from New York City: By car, take I-87 North to Palisades Pkwy to NY-9D. By train, take Metro-North Hudson Line to Beacon Station. Whichever transportation you use, travel time is about one hour and 30 minutes.

5. Float down the river in New Hope, Pennsylvania

New Hope might be one of the most progressive small towns in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, with a giant yearly LGBTIQ+ festival , late-night bar scene and artistic stores. It is also the perfect relaxing getaway. Find a spot by the Delaware River and let your urban stress melt away.

When it's time to eat, you won’t go wrong with Salt House , a charming gastropub in a historical building constructed in 1751. Eat chowder by the fire in the tavern, steak frites in the upstairs library or oysters on the half-shell alfresco on the stone patio.

How to get to New Hope from New York City: From Port Authority, take a direct bus to New Hope. The trip takes about two hours. By car, take I-78 west and US-202 south. Travel time by car is one hour and 30 minutes.

6. Experience NYC's surf scene at the Rockaways

Travel time: 45 minutes

For a hip surf scene that is reachable by subway, grab your swimsuit and catch the A train to the  Rockaways . Technically still in New York City (it’s in Queens), at Rockaway Beach , you’ll feel like you’re in a seaside town, but without the unbearable traffic.  

For a unique experience in the summer, book a tent at Camp Rockaway , a seasonal “glampground” located mere steps from the ocean, where the sounds of the surf will lull you to sleep. 

The Riis Park Beach Bazaar concession stands have updated seaside fare, including a weekly lobster boil at Rockaway Clam Bar . Grab a picnic table on the boardwalk, crack open a beer and groove to the live music playing most summer nights.

How to get to the Rockaways from New York City: Take the NYC ferry directly to Jacob Riis Beach or the A train to a shuttle bus. The trip takes about 45 minutes. 

This article was first published October 2017 and updated September 2023

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15 Best Day Trips From New York City

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 15 Best Day Trips From New York City

While there are so many cool things to do in NYC , it’s not a bad idea to consider taking a day trip from New York City . The noise, traffic, and crowds of the Big Apple can be a bit much at times, and there are many wonderful places near Manhattan that you can reach within just a few hours.

You can rent a car for your excursion from NYC or take your own vehicle. If you don’t want to drive, don’t worry. NYC is very well connected with many cities and towns around ( $11 discount on bus and train connections).

Also, you can even find some day tours from New York City to several of the destinations I’ll mention in this guide.

Here, I’m sharing the 15 best NYC day trips , from the most beautiful state parks to major cities and historical places. So, whether you’re looking for the best beach getaway from NYC or a mountain escape, I’ve got you covered! Also, for even more ideas, check out our guide on the best things to do outside NYC .

1. Philadelphia, PA, one of the best day trips from New York City

Philadelphia offers something for everyone, and it’s just a couple of hours outside Manhattan, so it’s a perfect choice. You can easily get there by car or make it an Amtrak day trip from NYC if you prefer to travel by train (check schedule and best rates here ).

History buffs will have a field day in the City of Brotherly Love, where they can see the Liberty Bell , the Betsy Ross House , and Independence Mall . If it’s art and culture that you’re after, the Avenue of the Arts is home to reputable institutions like the Philadelphia Museum of Art , the Rodin Museum , and the Franklin Institute . It’s also worth snapping a photo with the famous LOVE sculpture or the Rocky statue if that’s more your thing.

Stretch your legs while walking along the Schuylkill River Trail , browse the shops on South Street , and check out Penn’s Landing , which often hosts festivals and events. If you want more ideas, we have a complete guide on the best things to do in Philadelphia .

When you get hungry, Reading Terminal Market is a large food hall where you can find all kinds of foods, such as cheesesteaks, soft pretzels, and Amish baked goods. Speaking of which, Philly isn’t far from Amish Country in Lancaster, PA. If you want to maximize a day trip to Philadelphia from New York City , consider this tour , which visits both Philadelphia and Lancaster in a day.

2. Washington, D.C., the best NYC day trip to take in the spring

A visit to the country’s capital city won’t disappoint, as Washington, D.C. is full of important monuments, interesting museums, and a few hidden gems. A day trip from New York City to Washington, D.C. is something you can do as a family or with your partner since there are activities for all ages.

If you go here, you must check out the monuments and historical landmarks, many of which commemorate former U.S. Presidents. Some of the best ones are the Lincoln Memorial , the Washington Monument , the Jefferson Memorial , the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial , and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial .

I also recommend stopping by the Vietnam Veterans Memorial , Korean War Veterans Memorial , or World War II Memorial to pay your respects.

Moreover, the National Mall is one of the best places to see in Washington, D.C. Here, you can capture gorgeous photos of the Washington Memorial and Reflecting Pool. Also, the National Mall is bordered by Smithsonian museums such as the National Air and Space Museum , the National Museum of Natural History , and the Smithsonian American Art Museum .

If you visit in the spring, you can see the famous cherry blossoms, but if you miss them, there is still plenty to see here. While D.C. is mostly known for its historical landmarks, it’s a great food city, and you can find just about any type of cuisine here.

To streamline your trip, you can book  this tour that is the best day trip to Washington, D.C. from NYC , or this day tour to D.C. and Philadelphia (all in a day).

3. The Hamptons, the best beach day trip from NYC

Any savvy New Yorker knows that The Hamptons is one of the best summer getaways from NYC , so if you’re looking for a place to visit during the warmer months, don’t hesitate to go!

The Hamptons consist of several beach communities and towns on the eastern end of Long Island, NY. Here, you can find some of the best beaches near NYC , such as Main Beach , a family-friendly and well-maintained beach. It’s in East Hampton , one of the most popular summer colonies in The Hamptons, which includes smaller villages like Montauk and Sag Harbor.

Montauk is a pleasant town in East Hampton with cute B&Bs and a historic lighthouse. As for Sag Harbor , it has a charming, small-town feel and several old buildings dating back to the early 1800s.

If you want to enjoy some watersports, Cooper’s Beach in Southampton is a great choice. The coastline is pristine and has lifeguards on duty during the high season, so you can go swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding. Plus, the downtown area has scenic shops and cafes where you can grab a bite to eat.

As you can see, a trip to The Hamptons makes for one of the best beach getaways from NYC . If you don’t want to worry about driving and finding a parking spot, consider this day trip from New York City, which includes stops in Southampton, Sag Harbor, and the Tanger Outlets, the best outlets in New York .

4. Beacon, NY, the best NYC day trip to upstate New York

Nestled in the Hudson Valley, just 60 miles north of NYC, Beacon is a lovely historic town with an artsy vibe. That said, it also offers plenty of outdoor activities, so it’s the perfect upstate NY day trip from New York City .

Back in the day, Beacon was one of New York’s industrial centers, and today it’s a hidden gem that you shouldn’t pass by. You’ll quickly become enchanted by the city’s historical charm and small-town feel. Stroll through the downtown area and pop into the museums and galleries, the most famous being Dia Beacon , an old Nabisco boxing factory turned contemporary art gallery.

Beacon is also home to old landmarks and colonial architecture like the Madam Brett Homestead and the Eustatia cottage . If you venture towards the outskirts of the city, you can enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty of the Hudson Valley.

Consider spending a few hours exploring the hiking trails around Hudson Highlands State Park or Mt. Beacon Park. The area is particularly beautiful in fall, so if you can, plan this Hudson Valley day trip from NYC in September or October.

It takes just an hour and a half to drive to Beacon from the Big Apple, which is why it’s one of the best NYC weekend getaways .

5. Niagara Falls, NY, a fun family day trip from NYC

Without a doubt, a Niagara Falls day trip from New York City will not disappoint. Niagara Falls is a gorgeous natural wonder that you should see at least once. It extends into Ontario, Canada, although you’ll find plenty of cool things to do in Niagara Falls on the New York side .

The U.S. portion of Niagara Falls includes several lookout points where you can get stunning views of the American Falls , the Bridal Veil Falls , and the Horseshoe Falls . For example, Terrapin Point , on Goat Island, is a secluded place where you can clearly see Horseshoe Falls. Of course, Prospect Point is the most famous viewpoint, which will grant you a panorama of the American Falls and Ontario, Canada.

While you’re gazing at the majestic cascades, you’ll notice people riding through the Niagara Gorge on the Maid of the Mist boat, as well as individuals walking along the Cave of the Winds platforms at the base of the falls. If you don’t mind getting wet, these two activities are a great way to get closer to the waterfalls and witness their sheer power.

For something calmer, check out the walking trails along the Niagara River Gorge, or journey out to Old Fort Niagara , a colonial fortification and museum about 20 minutes from the falls.

As you can see, there is a lot to do here, so consider a full-day bus tour from New York City to Niagara Falls like this one. If you have more time, it’s worth taking this 2-day tour instead.

6. Full-day Long Island wine tour, a romantic day trip from NYC

Another lovely warm-weather locale near NYC is Long Island , where you’ll find everything from watersports to wineries. Stretching from New York Harbor to the Atlantic Ocean, Long Island encompasses several densely-populated cities and communities, such as The Hamptons, Great Neck, and Mineola.

Planning a day trip to Long Island from NYC can be a bit confusing, but I’ll tell you that one of the best things to do here is to visit a winery. You can find vineyards and wineries throughout the region, although some of the best ones are Pellegrini Vineyards and Sannino Vineyard in Cutchogue; Sparkling Pointe Vineyard in Southold; and Baiting Hollow Vineyard in Calverton.

For the ultimate winery day trip from NYC , do this vineyard bike tour , which combines the amazing wineries of North Fork with the beautiful beaches of The Hamptons.

In fact, one of the nicest things about Long Island is that you can sip on some delightful wines and visit the beach in one day. Some of the best beaches on Long Island are Jones Beach State Park, Robert Moses State Park, Montauk, and Fire Island, which I’ll talk about next. So, if you’re looking for a romantic day trip from NYC , Long Island is a prime destination.

7. Fire Island, NY, one of the best summer getaways from NYC

As I mentioned, Fire Island is on Long Island, and it stands out for its family-centric atmosphere, summertime activities, and pristine natural parks. If you’re going to be in the area during the summer, taking a beach day trip from NYC to Fire Island is the perfect way to relax and cool off.

Fire Island stretches for 30 miles and is home to a number of private communities and unspoiled beaches. I recommend visiting Robert Moses State Park , which features five miles of coastline and an entry point to the Fire Island National Seashore . Here, you can spend time with family, enjoy swimming in the sea, and venture along the nearby nature trails. There are also lots of bird and animal species here, particularly along the 1.5-mile boardwalk trail through the Sunken Forest .

If you want to splash out on something fancier, you can book a boat rental at Barrett Beach Park , a quieter and more secluded coastal community. Alternatively, Watch Hill has a scenic and serene campground, marina, nature trail, and lifeguarded beach.

8. Boston, MA, a great daytrip from NYC for history lovers

For a change of scenery, Boston, Massachusetts offers culture, food, history, and more, making it one of the top daytrips from New York City . It takes a little over 3.5 hours to drive to Boston from Manhattan, and there is never a bad time to visit the city, although it’s prone to New England’s winter storms.

Of course, it’s that New England charm that brings so many people to Boston. Here, you can visit the Boston Public Garden , the country’s first botanical garden, as well as Boston Common , the city’s central square and the oldest public park in the U.S.

The sightseeing here is unmatched, so if you’re into art, history, or entertainment, you’re in for a treat. Be sure to check out the 900-foot-tall Prudential Tower , the deCordova Museum & Sculpture Park , the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum , and the museums at Harvard .

You can also get a great overview of the city by strolling along the Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway , a one-mile stretch through Chinatown, the Financial District, and the North End. The Greenway contains several parks and goes past Boston Harbor , where you can enjoy a cruise or watch from the Harborwalk.

You can also find hikes and nature reservations near the city, and leave room for lobster rolls, clam chowder, and Boston Cream Pie since there is nothing better than a day trip from NYC to Boston !

Ideally, Boston makes for a wonderful road trip from NYC , but if you’re short on time, this day trip from Manhattan will help you see all the city’s highlights in one day.

9. Jersey shore, a fun summer daytrip from NYC for families

Another fun day trip from NYC that crosses state lines is the Jersey shore. Stretching from South Jersey’s Cape May coast to Asbury Park in the north, the 130-mile shoreline includes over 40 beaches. We have a complete guide to the best beaches in New Jersey , so you can find exactly the kind of environment you’re looking for.

If you want a Jersey beach that’s not too far from Manhattan, check out Asbury Park , a historical beach town with amusements, a waterpark, and a pinball arcade museum. Alternatively, Island Beach State Park is much more rustic and natural, so it’s good for outdoor enthusiasts.

If you travel further south, you can visit Ocean City, NJ , another top family resort with a boardwalk, amusements, and Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. You can also go kayaking, parasailing, and paddleboarding in Great Egg Harbor Bay.

Finally, in South Jersey, you can enjoy two of the best beach day trips from NYC . First, Wildwood has a youthful vibe with lots of amusements, arcades, and beach bars here. Just 20 minutes away, Cape May is a quieter beach community with colorful Victorian mansions. If you go here, be sure to check out the Cape May Point State Park and Lighthouse, the wineries, or one of the Cape May dolphin-watching tours .

10. Storm King Art Center, another excellent day trip from NYC

Back in the Hudson Highlands, the Storm King Art Center is another NYC day trip you should do. It’s just an hour from Manhattan, and close to Storm King Mountain, so the scenery is stunning.

The Art Center is a huge open-air museum and sculpture garden, so it’s best to visit when the weather is warmer (it closes in the winter.) Also, since it’s in the Hudson River Valley, it would make for a great fall day trip from NYC . Along with the wonderful works of art, you can enjoy the autumn foliage and colorful leaves.

There are over 100 sculptures here, including pieces by well-known artists like Alexander Calder, Isamu Noguchi, Richard Serra, and David Smith. The Art Center also hosts special exhibits from time to time, so it’s worth visiting more than once.

Finally, this outdoor museum covers about 500 acres of wooded areas, meadows, and hills, so take your time to enjoy the environment and the artwork. You can even rent a bike and follow the bike trails around the premises.

11. Sleepy Hollow/Tarrytown, NY, the best daytrip from NYC to take in the fall

Sleepy Hollow is a historic and, according to some, haunted village along the Hudson River. It’s just 30 minutes from the Big Apple, so it’s one of the best day trips from NYC . The town is most famous for the short story, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , which was written in 1820 and describes the village’s Headless Horseman.

While the horseman was a fictional character, that didn’t stop Sleepy Hollow from becoming a legendary town full of history and lore. Even though some say that the place is haunted, it has more of a quaint vibe than a creepy one.

That said, Sleepy Hollow is a popular fall day trip from NYC since the autumn colors and Halloween season bring lots of festivities. Be sure to visit the Old Dutch Church and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , two unique sites from the 17 th century. If you’re a fan of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , the Headless Horseman Bridge is a small, rustic footbridge, that’s nearby.

Right next to Sleepy Hollow is Tarrytown , another interesting village with a storybook feel. Tarrytown has a strong Dutch history and several impressive structures dating back to the 1800s, like the Reformed Church of the Tarrytowns, the Lyndhurst mansion, the Sunnyside house, and the Tarrytown Music Hall. I also recommend visiting the Tarrytown Lighthouse and the Philipsburg Manor House , built in the late 1600s.

12. Cold Spring, NY, another wonderful daytrip from NYC

Right next to Beacon, you’ll find Cold Spring , another beautiful city near NYC . Located along the Hudson River, Cold Spring is a pretty town known for its art, culture, and proximity to gorgeous natural areas.

Spend some time walking along Main Street, the lively town center where you can dine alfresco, go antique shopping, and enjoy live music and theater. There is also Dockside Park , a lovely riverfront park that provides views of Storm King Mountain.

If you love museums, be sure to check out the Magazzino Italian Art gallery and the Putnam History Museum , which preserves the history of the West Point Foundry ironworking shop. The outdoor portion of the museum preserves an old Civil War-era artillery site.

Moreover, Cold Spring is one of the best New York City daytrips to take if you want some fresh air and outdoor recreation. Stonecrop Gardens is a 12-acre public alpine garden that’s perfect for visiting if you’re short on time. However, if you can, I recommend exploring the biking or hiking trails in the area. The Breakneck Ridge Loop is a challenging hike with a steep incline, while the Fjord Trail is a shorter out-and-back route that goes through Hudson Highlands State Park from Cold Spring to Beacon. Both are great options if you’re looking for hikes near NYC.

This city is also one of the best summer getaways from NYC , so if you visit during the warmer months, you must go boating, paddleboarding, or kayaking on the Hudson River.

13. The Catskills, the ultimate winter day trip from NYC

If you’re looking for the perfect winter day trip from New York City , I can’t recommend The Catskills enough. The Catskill Mountains are a popular winter destination for New Yorkers, not to mention one of the best things to do in New York state , so you’re sure to have a blast here.

The Catskills are part of the Appalachian Mountains and offer stunning scenery, majestic views, and countless activities. There are several ski resorts in the area, which makes the Catskills one of the top places for a skiing daytrip from NYC . Spend the day skiing, snowboarding, or snow tubing at Belleayre Mountain or Hunter Mountain , then head to one of the nearby towns, like Phoenicia or Saugerties. One of my favorite all-inclusive resorts in NYC is here, the Villa Roma Resort .

Phoenicia has a nice downtown area full of galleries, antique shops, and breweries, and it’s close to the Phoenicia Mt. Tobias Wild Forest. Saugerties , which is nearby, is home to the Opus 40 Museum and Sculpture Park, the Saugerties Lighthouse, and the Esopus Bend Nature Preserve. If you love to hike, you can find more hiking routes in the towns of Hudson and Woodstock .

While the Catskills are best known for winter sports, you can visit during the summer to enjoy the waterfalls, hiking trails, and activities like rafting and tubing. The Catskill Scenic Trail is especially popular, as is driving along the 52-mile Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway .

14. Bear Mountain State Park, a nice daytrip from NYC for nature lovers

Located an hour north of Manhattan, Bear Mountain State Park is a beautiful natural area nestled next to the Hudson River and shadowed by Bear Mountain. The entire park spans 5,200 acres and features lots of activities and attractions for all ages. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best family day trips from NYC that you can take any time of year.

If you go during the summer, you can take a swim in the park’s public pool or Hessian Lake , which also has paddleboat rentals. The park also has a playground, picnic areas, and numerous biking and hiking trails. The Hessian Lake Loop is an easy 1.5-mile route, while the Fort Montgomery Trail is a more difficult route that begins on the Appalachian Trail and leads to the ruins of Fort Montgomery, a fortification from the American Revolution.

Again, Bear Mountain State Park is a quick road trip from NYC that you can do year-round, so if you go in the winter, you can go skiing, ice skating, and sledding. If you’re visiting with kids, there are also the Trailside Museums , which include a reptile and amphibian house, a geology exhibit, and a history museum.

15. New Canaan, CT, a day trip from New York City you can do on the weekend

Finally, New Canaan , Connecticut, which is about 1.5 hours from Manhattan, is home to architecture, parks, activities, and nature, so it’s the perfect destination to round out our list of New York City day trips . New Canaan may not be the first place you think of near NYC, but it’s a beautiful little town that you can enjoy with family or as a couple.

For example, there are several lovely parks where you can stretch your legs, have a picnic, and enjoy some outdoor recreation. Waveny Park is one of the best parks in town, with a pool, a paddle tennis court, walking trails, and even a castle. It’s also worth seeing Mead Memorial Park , Mill Pond Park , or Irwin Park , which is known for its family of goats.

Speaking of wildlife, the Bristow Bird Sanctuary has over 100 bird species, and the New Canaan Nature Center is full of meadows, ponds, and wetlands, as well as an arboretum, botanical garden, and greenhouse. The Olive and George Lee Memorial Garden is a gorgeous hidden gem, especially during azalea season.

If you’re into art and culture, New Canaan’s downtown district is a must-see. Along with its restaurants, vintage shops, bookstores, and theater, it’s close to the Philip Johnson Glass House , a contemporary art museum.

With that, you now have 15 New York City day trip ideas for your next stay in the Big Apple. Some of these places are pretty close to each other, so you may want to consider visiting multiple locations during your trip. You can download this tourist map of New York to help you plan out your perfect day trip route.

I hope you found some day trips from NYC you like! If you have any questions, leave me a comment below, and I’ll be happy to help. Have a fun trip!

Ascen Aynat

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from New York

Day trips from new york.

• New York to New York City
• New York to Niagara Falls
• New York to Central Valley
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
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5 Best Day Trips from New York City

By Alex Van Buren , Andrea Whittle , and Devra Ferst

New York City has endless allure for residents and visitors, from its cultural attractions to its dining and nightlife scene , but sometimes what you need most from New York is a break. Seated where it is on the northeast corridor, there are plenty of great escapes you can tackle in a day or long weekend. These places that are just a train or car ride away from NYC combine ease of access with a fresh vibe no less full of appeal: from the nearby waterfront to the charming towns upstate. These are the best day trips from NYC.

Click the link to read our complete New York City guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK

A short jaunt on the Metro North from New York City, these two little towns have become popular in spring, summer, and fall. They're beautiful, with DIA: Beacon the star around which a constellation of eating, drinking, and hotel options have sprung up. Since they're a quick car or train ride apart, you could see both in one day, if you like. Consider steak frites, ice cream by the water, drinks overlooking a rumbling waterfall, and a quaint B&B if you can't bear to leave so quickly.

The Patio Grill at The Roundhouse Arrow

This former dye mill ( now hotel ) overlooks Beacon Falls, and boy are they gorgeous, particularly in the spring, summer, and fall from the seasonally open Patio Grill. (Mother Nature did good work on both the lighting and the water feature.) The menu changes all the time, and past hits have included a burger with smoked Gouda, fried shrimp with spicy mayo, and a pretty solid salad. Keep it simple and go for wine or beer on tap; cocktails are ambitious but don’t always hit the mark. This food isn’t going to blow your mind, nor will it break the bank: You’re here for that view.

Dogwood Arrow

One of a couple neighborhood bars where you can really feel the chill Beacon vibe, this one is studded with locals hunkered in their booths, or tipping back a few local on-tap drafts. You’ve got 16 taps on draft, solid cocktails but nothing fancy, and wine from California, France, and Italy, for the most part (We’d go with a pint). You're wanting a burger, some wings, jumbo stuffed tater tots, a pint, and some gossip. This place has all of it.

Hudson River Expeditions Arrow

This rustic kayak tour takes you to the still-beautiful Bannerman Castle , which is in a state of photogenic dishabille . Guides tend to be on the very friendly side, and the folks hosting you at the castle itself are bookish and know their stuff. This late spring to early fall operation is pretty much right on the Hudson, which is perhaps why the folks running the show seem to understand the river itself. You’ll want to book in advance, but if you’re in the neighborhood, feel free to pop by just in case there are openings. They have a Peekskill, NY location, too.

Jessica Puckett

Hannah Towey

Cold Spring Antiques Center Arrow

Tiny, cluttered, and wonderful, this is one of a clutch of great antiques and vintage shops peppering Main Street. Mix-and-match bakelite flatware (a steal) is packed in right alongside vintage Mister Rogers albums, and a lamp of a white monkey clutching a lightbulb. It’s a hoarder’s fever dream. Remember that half the pleasure of vintage and antique shopping is in The Dig. Spend some time shuffling through old photos, posters and the like, and you might just find a diamond in the rough. (But probably not an actual diamond.)

Storm King Art Center Arrow

Forget what you think you know about tiny, manicured sculpture gardens. Storm King Art Center—simply, Storm King to those fleeing the city to see it—is an extraordinary 500-acre outdoor museum, complete with works from Alexander Calder, Zhang Huan, and Sol LeWitt. In autumn, it’s hard to say what’s more striking here: the artwork or the scenery. Strap on your best walking shoes and pack a picnic. You’ll want to spend a day exploring here.

Backbar Arrow

Is this a bar? A vintage shop? A restaurant? Backbar looks a bit like all three. But, at its core, it’s a bar with food worth getting in a car for. Zak Pelaccio, who once operated Fatty Crab in Manhattan , and later decamped to the Hudson Valley, is behind the project. It's geared towards locals but will allow those visiting for the weekend to join in. Pull up a seat at the bar or in the large outside space if the weather’s nice. With a name like Backbar, it’s fair to expect high level drinks. That expectation is certainly met with simple but well executed cocktails like the bee’s knees with citadelle gin, honey, and lemon, and slushies like the Lucy, made with tequila, fresh lime juice, and topped with Prosecco. There’s also a board for local beer offerings and cocktail specials. If you're in the Upper Hudson Valley, you really shouldn't miss Backbar, regardless of whether you're with your partner, parents, or friends.

Pig Hill Inn Arrow

This 1825-era B&B is adorable, right on Main Street, and comes with a fabulous breakfast. Rooms have four-poster beds, canopies, and lacy coverlets—all the details are spot-on, right down to the clawfoot tubs. There's a cute little "conservatory" for dining with other guests after a night of sleep, and you can sip wine in front of a wood-burning fire. Of all the older options downtown, this is the best by a longshot.

Brunette Arrow

New to natural wine? The staff here is happy to help guide you. Don’t be shy, just ask. The wine offerings change daily, but expect at least 10 or so wines to be available by the glass like an orange chardonnay from Marche, Italy, and a sparkling red. There are also beers including those from Hudson Valley’s Suarez Family Brewery. Just like the wine offerings, the team says the food menu can change with abandon and without notice, but that’s part of the fun. You might find hot dogs with pickled carrots, shrimp cocktail, and burrata with fennel. Don’t skip the trout roe nachos.

Moo Moo's Creamery Arrow

Small and quaint, with all the hallmarks you’ve come to expect of an ice cream shop—barely legible signs denoting ice cream flavors scrawled in every color, cute black-and-white tiled floors, teenage scoopers whose moods vary by the day—this is a great place for a to-go cone. Even New England ice cream snobs should be able to get behind the relatively creamy texture and straightforward flavors proffered here. (Think: coffee chip and chocolate Oreo.) The fanciest, Mexican chocolate, is good and punchy with the requisite cinnamon. The mouthfeel is what matters—buttery, luxe, and creamy, not icy—and Moo Moo’s usually nails it.

GREENPORT, LONG ISLAND

Keep driving East and North from New York City. Let the last Burger King and Friendly's drop off in the rearview mirror. Observe as apple orchards, breweries, cows and Canadian geese pop into view. Marvel at how the vineyards seem to stretch right to the horizon. You're in the North Fork, baby. Shuck some oysters, hit the beach, have some wine, and most importantly, slow your roll.

Aldo's Arrow

Locals have been coming to this cozy café since it opened in 1987 to sip espresso drinks and chat over the day's news. It's such a neighborhood institution, even Starbucks closed after four years when it opened across the street. The coffee runs strong and we’d recommend it in latte or mocha form, to balance its intensity. Chocolate-dipped biscotti—which you can buy to go—croissants, and scones are the things to snack with your drink.

Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market Arrow

This nautical oyster hideout by the docks is tiny, popular, and fun, known for its slogan, “Shuck Your Self.” New Englanders and anyone else who grew up shucking their own oysters will delight that it’s half-price here ($20 versus $36 for a pre-shucked dozen) if you do so. If you don’t know where to start, someone will teach you. Oysters here are divine, since this restaurant is part of a local collective working with dozens of individual farmers and harvesters. If you’re here from The City, the wine prices by the bottle might make you a little weak-kneed. Pull yourself together and order a classic oyster pairing: Muscadet, Champagne, or—yes, it works—chocolatey Oyster Stout from Greenport Brewing.

1943 Pizza Bar Arrow

Intimate and simple, with burnt-orange walls and a wood-fired brick oven, crowds come to clamor over the attractive pizzas they're slinging. Even Ina Garten is a fan of these 14-inch thin-crust pies, with their prettily bubbled crusts. The options vary: You could do a margherita simply dressed with mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil, or you could order the innovative clams casino (fresh clams, bacon, green peppers, and garlic on a white pie). This place can be a nice change from the hustling, bustling pizzerias of Manhattan .

Croteaux Vineyards Arrow

This is off the beaten path of the vineyards lining the North Fork, and it makes for a nice change of pace, with a wonderful garden and tasting barn, and delicious rosé. Everyone’s got a glass of rosé or bubbly rosé, and most folks will order a flight—they’re cheap by Manhattan standards. We love the selection of rosé sparklers, of which you can order a trio at a time, including the deep, juicy Cabernet Franc sparkler (if they have it). Do know that the bar is a warm-weather operation and will reopen before April.

White Flower Farmhouse Arrow

Farmhouse antiques are the specialties at this downtown Southold shop—as far as the eye can see—with home decor, kitchenware, and other finds in the mix. Maybe you need a mirror framed in distressed wood? An antique table? Hand-thrown ceramics or a few yard sale items just purchased in the French countryside? These are the vintage and “vintage-inspired” housewares and linens you dream about. If you're a New Yorker trying like hell to make your Brooklyn home into a tiny little country cottage, this is your place.  We’re not gonna say we’d fight you for the matched sets of Bakelite flatware or the cool blue-and-red vintage sailboat rental signs, but…

Brix & Rye Arrow

Cocktail obsessives have one daydream: to find a bar with excellent drinks for about a third of what they’d pay in New York or San Francisco . This is that bar. Order The Last Word if you’ve never had one, a Sazerac, or maybe something made with sherry, a fortified wine that drinks master Evan Bucholz understands how to wield wisely. Use those cocktails to wash down pizza from 1943 Pizza Bar next door. Whether you go for a white pie decked out with clams or a classic margherita, the food here—including some killer wood-fired meatballs—is better than most people expect.

American Beech Hotel Arrow

The design at American Beech fits somewhere between LA , Miami Beach, and Greenport . There are whitewashed suites, an Instagrammable bar, and large plants outside. Somehow, the three styles all come together to make one of the chicest places on the North Fork. There are only 11 rooms at this boutique hotel, so book in advance during peak season. Note that some are located over the bustling restaurant, so if you’re looking for peace and quiet, opt for one of the other rooms located around Stirling Square. This spot is as much about the restaurant and bar as it is the hotel. The roomy restaurant, which is closed during the winter, can accommodate large parties, so if you’re visiting the North Fork for, say, a bachelorette, this is a great choice. The menu hops around from cumin-cured duck wings to spaghetti squash latkes and a smash burger with cheddar. 

Eagle's Neck Paddling Arrow

The employees of this kayak outfitter are locals, and they want you to relax—Orient Beach State Park is a national landmark, thanks to its unusual maritime forest and its plethora of great blue herons, egrets, ospreys, and crowned night herons. Guides can point out beautiful vistas, but you could also do that on your own. (Costs are similar whether you take the tour or not.) Outdoorsy types will love seeing how far they can get in two hours, and the lazy dabblers among us will enjoy just how chill kayaking can be.

North Ferry Company Arrow

This is a daily ferry leaving every 10, 20 or 30 minutes to take you to Shelter Island . You came all the way to Greenport. You want to see more of the water. For $2 each way, this is how you do it. This is the best way to get some beach time in—and truly escape the city—without paying much. Rent or bring a bike; the island is totally easy to get around on one. Then go to the beach with a bottle of something delicious.

NORTH ADAMS, MASSACHUSETTS

Mass MoCA is a behemoth hub of the arts for many miles in every direction, playing host to artists as varied and marvelous as David Byrne, Wilco, Xu Bing, and Katharina Grosse. It's definitely a can't-miss, but as you drive here, marveling at the rolling hills and sprawling natural beauty, you'll want to know where to eat and sleep, too. One of our favorite boutique hotels is here, featuring a hot tub where you can sip bourbon under the stars, after a day at the museum. A trip to this part of the world is like hitting a reset button.

MASS MoCA Arrow

This sprawling museum lures history buffs and art fans alike. The 16-acre complex of 19th-century mill buildings occupies almost a third of the North Adams downtown business region. It is a mind-bending museum. James Turrell, Xu Bing, and Katharina Grosse are among the artists who revel in just how much space is here. The curation is smart, using the gargantuan ceilings and old trappings of the place to make you feel dwarfed, but not diminished. When you need a break, there is a brewpub here, a good café, ice cream, and a fine dining restaurant.

The Porches Inn at MASS MoCA Arrow

A string of 19th century Victorian row houses, lined by porches with slightly ominous identical rocking chairs. This place is dwarfed by Mass MoCA just across the street, but you notice the hotel owner’s attention to detail as soon as you park and see the lobby. The tub in your room will be so gorgeous you’ll want to pull it from the floorboards and take it home. And if you miss out on the hot tub, at night, under the stars and foliage, with a bourbon, neat, in your hand (they’re fine with that at the front desk), you are not doing it right. So long as you're not a diva needing to count threads in the sheets, Porches' style and attention to detail may just ruin you for other boutique hotels.

Cascade Waterfall Arrow

At the end of this hike is a picturesque, cold waterfall. The air is crisp and clean here, and it feels a bit like you fell off the map, in the best way. Relatively easy for beginning hikers, sometimes with a bit of mud at the end of the trail, this is a slightly tricky-to-find spot with unfortunately few easements. But if you don't mind muddying your boots a bit, and just want to stretch your legs without going all out, this one's for you.

Pedrin's Dairy Bar Arrow

The words on the awning say it all: “Pedrin’s Dairy Bar: Home of the Fish Fry.” Brace for MASS MoCA tourists and locals wishing they lived a little closer to the beach, all happily digging into sundaes and deeply fried fish ‘n chips. This is a quick fix for a few New England greats, all to be spread out over a white or red picnic table and—as they say—housed. Fried fish, clam strips, cheap burgers, and bountiful ice cream: This isn’t a place you walk away from feeling light on your feet, but some of us like to get all our indulgences in at one go.

Williams College Museum of Art Arrow

Dedicated art lovers know that there’s more to see in this corner of the Berkshires than the large-scale installations at MASS MoCA . Just down the road sits William College Museum of Art, or WCMA, a small but mighty museum that’s home to 15,000 pieces that range from ancient Egyptian and Assyrian to works from living American artists. The collection here has a bit of everything. There are outdoor sculptures, an archive dedicated to brothers Maurice and Charles Prendergast, and pieces from contemporary artists. Students at Williams College are lucky enough to be able to loan select pieces from the collection for a semester.

Tourists Arrow

Inspired by the American roadside motor lodge of yore, Tourists is built for contemporary design lovers with lots of light wood on the banks of the Hoosic River. Many of the large windows in guest rooms look straight into nature, helping blur the line between the outdoors and indoors. Opened in 2018, Tourists still feels like the cool new kid on the block with the clientele to match. For those exploring Williamstown and North Adams, Tourists is perfectly situated. It’s approximately three miles from the Clark Art Institute, MASS MoCA , and Bright Ideas Brewing . If you’re visiting this corner of the Berkshires, there’s nowhere more stylish to stay.

The Distillery at Greylock WORKS Arrow

The historic Greylock Works mill has been converted into a stylish home for this distillery from Colorado that relocated to the Berkshires and opened here in 2019. Inside the distilling room sits a 20 person bar that makes drinks exclusively from housemade liquors and is open on Friday and Saturday evenings—perfect for folks visiting from out of town. Take a bottle for your friends back home and know that for each bottle you buy, you’ll get a complimentary cocktail or flight.

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

The City of Brotherly Love has been luring lovers of art and dining from NYC and Washington, D.C., in recent years, and can compete on the national level on both fronts. With arguably the best Israeli cuisine in America, a trio of knockout museums, and even a Four Seasons, it's a destination town. Here's where to sleep, drink, eat, and play in Philly right now.

Zahav Arrow

When James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Solomonov opened Zahav over a decade ago, it was one of only a handful of Israeli restaurants in the U.S. that served dishes other than hummus and shakshuka. Since then, upscale Israeli restaurants have sprouted in major cities across the country, and Americans have learned how to say "tehina." But despite the competition it's created, Zahav remains one of the best (if not the very best). Every meal here should start with Solomonov's silken hummus and laffa, a just-barely singed Iraqi flat bread, and salatim, a selection of Israeli salads and dips you can plunge that laffa into. From there, there's no wrong turn: Choose plates like chicken shishlik with plum, fennel, and sumac, or black sea bass tartare with bulgur and preserved orange. And save room for the restaurant’s iconic pomegranate-glazed lamb shoulder.

If you can’t score a table at Zahav, try Laser Wolf, which serves several salatim (Middle Eastern salads) and skewers like Yemenite beef kebabs and mushroom shishlik, which are kissed with charcoal.

Reading Terminal Market Arrow

All of humanity seems to have come together in a happy hubbub at Reading Terminal Market. The sprawling space has been around since 1893, though now, its vegetable, fish, and meat vendors are compounded by dozens of restaurants, bakeries, and bars. Look for old-timey neon signs to help you make sense of the dozens of options—or just head straight for DiNic's, where the roast pork sandwich, topped with a frenzy of broccoli rabe, is practically the beating heart of the place. Follow it up with a scoop (or three) of Bassett's silky ice cream.

Philadelphia Museum of Art Arrow

Classic, grand, and impressive, the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a cultural institution. It is Philadelphia's answer to the Louvre, and houses one of the country's finest collections of art and sculpture. Tourists, locals, the stroller set…the gang's all here and they're all taking in the art at their own pace. Some skip entire galleries based on interests, while others read every placard. It's a choose your own adventure kind of place. And if all of this culture makes you hungry, you're in luck. The Cafe is bright and welcoming and features a variety of tasty sandwiches, soups, pizzas, and more. Prefer to cool your heels in a more formal setting? The Stir is an elegant spot designed by Frank Gehry that's perfect for lingering and lunching.

Briar Vintage Arrow

Vintage for gentlemen! This extraordinary place is one of a bevy of great vintage shops sprinkled around Philly, though it has some of the best men’s gear. Silk ascots, waistcoats, bowties, jackets, and an attentive owner who knows your size on site? It’s like stepping into a Gary Cooper vehicle. Don't leave without a smart vintage watch and, if you're feeling especially adventurous, a full tuxedo with tails.

Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center Arrow

This is a Four Seasons, so you can expect seamless service and a lot of greige carpeting. However, this particular outpost is somewhat unique in that so many big names were tapped for its creation: floral designer Jeff Leatham, composer Brian Eno, architect Norman Foster, and chefs Jean-Georges Vongerichten and Greg Vernick. Their contributions along with expansive skyline views from every vantage point on the property and passionate, genuine service could make this the beginning of a transformation of Philadelphia's hotel scene . 

La Colombe Arrow

La Colombe’s Fishtown location is unlike any of its many other outposts. The sprawling space is home to a roastery, a coffee laboratory, an open kitchen, a shop, and lots of seating. To call it a coffee shop would be to miss the point. There are fresh baked goods and other cafe standards aplenty here, but you’re really here for the coffee like pour overs, nitro lattes, and of course all of the espresso standards perfectly prepared. For coffee nerds or those with coffee lovers at home, there’s also a shop where you can pick up bags of La Colombe’s coffee to take home. Curious diners should consider stopping in for coffee and heading over to nearby Suraya for a Lebanese brunch.

Cadence Arrow

Food & Wine named this South Kensington restaurant the best new one in the U.S. in 2019. Note though, you're not here for the aesthetics; you’re here for the food. The $68 four-course prix-fixe menu offers a handful of choices of thoughtful and creative dishes for each course. In the winter, you might find wagyu beef tartar with smoked cheddar, herb dumplings with seafood ragu, or n’duja stuffed quail. Each course also contains a vegan dish, or one that could easily be prepared that way. If both you and your date enjoy meat, call ahead to see if the Keiser duck for two with mushrooms, sunchoke, sichuan, and sunflower will be available that evening. While BYOB, Cadence does have seasonal vinegar sodas, kombucha, and mate from Pennsylvania producers on offer. It strikes that rare balance of special and creative but still welcoming and comfortable. The space is cozy, so bring a date or a small gathering of food-loving friends.

Jim's South Street Arrow

Most cheesesteak shops in Philadelphia focus so closely on the rolls, onions, steak, and wiz, not to mention claiming the title of the best cheesesteak in the city, that a comfortable place in which to eat the sandwich is often overlooked. The team at Jim’s, which has been making cheesesteaks in Philly for almost 80 years, thankfully doesn't fall into that camp. Located on the corner of Fourth and South Streets, you can typically spot Jim’s before you arrive from the line snaking outside, down Fourth Street towards tattoo shops and piercing parlors. Once you’re inside, split up your team. While one person waits in line to place orders for cheesesteaks "wit whiz" (Cheese Whiz, that is), provolone, or American, or an Italian hoagie, the rest of the crew can head upstairs to stake out a table. It’s a bit of a production, but well worth it for a cheesesteak that never disappoints—and a place that lets you enjoy.

Independence National Historic Park Arrow

Philadelphia is the only UNESCO World Heritage City in the United States precisely because of the historical events that transpired right here, and it’s not just one museum or historic landmark. Rather, it’s a collection of buildings that played host to events that shaped American independence or honor that hard-won heritage. Begin at the Visitor Center to get your bearings and start your tour—visitors can enter with timed entry tickets—at Independence Hall, then stop by the Liberty Bell Center for a look at ostensibly the most famous broken item in the world. Afterwards, wander past the park’s other historic buildings including Carpenters Hall, the meeting site of the first Continental Congress, then make your way to the Benjamin Franklin Museum. Just note the airport-style security (and subsequent foot traffic) you're bound to encounter, and make sure you wear comfortable shoes—you'll be doing a lot of walking.

THE HAMPTONS, NEW YORK

It's famous on so many fronts: as a tony playground for celebrities and the Manhattan elite, but also for its earthier roots—lush farms, beaches, and quaint villages. Do as the locals do, and hit the bakeries, sandwich spots, farm stands, and under-the-radar museums and galleries that really make it stand out. Then, you'll understand why the crowds beeline for it as soon as the weekend hits.

Carissa's The Bakery Arrow

The most Williamsburg-ified place in the Hamptons, Carissa’s started as a tiny walk-in-closet-sized space but has graduated and expanded to a second, larger two-building space on Pantigo Road. At the new location, the house is still stocked with artful pastries that would impress at that dinner party your Hamptons host is throwing. But, there’s also a more fleshed out café menu and dinner offerings like fried Montauk monkfish and spaghetti al limone. You can (and should) still load up sourdough and pie though.

Breadzilla Arrow

This unfussy family-run bakery churns out the best loaves of bread, sandwiches, and pastries on the East End of Long Island. It draws a mix of locals and "summer people," lots of families stocking up on sandwiches for the beach, people buying loaves of cinnamon brioche and seven grain boules for their houseguests. The lobster roll, served on a pillowy soft round of brioche, is superb, but so are most of the turkey-and-cheddar kinds of classics (this isn't haute cuisine, but it's exactly what you want for a beach picnic).

Pollock-Krasner House Arrow

This 19th-century shingle-style farmhouse in the Springs was home to the abstract expressionist painter Jackson Pollock and his wife, Lee Krasner, until the late '80s. It's been left pretty much intact: the shelves are filled with books, Krasner's necklaces still hang on hooks in the bedroom, and, most fascinatingly, the drips from Pollock's most famous paintings still cover the wooden floor in his studio. It's a seasonal site, open May through October.

Round Swamp Farm Arrow

The Hamptons are filled with "farm stands" that are really specialty food boutiques. This is one of them, and it's the absolute best. Fresh peaches, white corn, and blackberries from local farms, eggs from the neighboring Iacono chicken coop, and tasty prepared salads and pasta, but the real draw are the baked goods: lemon pound cake, mini chocolate chip cookies, and crumble-topped pies oozing with fruit. There aren't any prices on anything. You'll wince when they start ringing you up at the register, but the baked goods and fresh produce are as good as the people-watching.

Hampton Chutney Co. Arrow

A counter service Indian-ish café, it's known for its massive, delicious dosas served on big plastic lunch trays and filled with grilled curried chicken, jack cheese, fresh veggies and plenty of avocado. Skip the sandwiches. You're here for the crispy, light-as-air, longer-than-your-arm dosas that you'll think are too big for one person to finish alone (you'll be wrong). One bite and you'll wonder why every order isn't served on this crepe-like wonder. The breakfast dosa is a Sunday morning home run, and the curry chutney chicken is like a chicken salad sandwich that just came back from a semester abroad in New Delhi. Everything comes with your choice of chutney for dipping and spreading—they're all tasty, but you can't go wrong with the herby cilantro.

Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen Arrow

On-the-nose classic 1950's luncheonette. There's a striped awning and neon lettering out front, leather-covered stools at the counter, booths lining the wall, paper menus-slash-placemats. They're known for their homemade ice cream: the flavors are listed on a board above the counter, where waitresses have been blending milkshakes in old-school machines for years, and there's a case where you can buy gallon containers of the stuff by the door. Stick to the classics and don't pass up a milkshake or malt.

La Fondita Arrow

It's a seasonally-open taco shack (albeit one brought to you by the restaurateurs behind the chic Nick and Toni's ) off the highway in Amagansett, with reggaeton on the stereo, technicolor picnic tables on the grass outside, and guacamole served in little plastic tubs. There's a full menu of tortas, burrito bowls, salads, and tostadas, but tacos are the way to go. Get some chips and guac to start, then a few Baja-style fish tacos, chicken tingas, and al pastors. Wash it down with Jarritos or a Modelo.

Hither Hills State Park Arrow

Hither Hills is a network of trails that stretches across the narrow Montauk peninsula from the Long Island Sound to the Atlantic. Parts of it are heavily forested, best for mountain bikers or trail runners looking to get their miles in; the rest are open sand dunes that stretch onto a skinny, quiet beach on the sound, perfect for an adventurous walk or a picnic. Don't miss the Walking Dunes trail for its dramatic sandy bowls. In all, it's a respite from the rest of the Hamptons and a cool, totally unspoiled landscape to explore.

Baron's Cove Arrow

Baron’s Cove leans into the Hamptons lifestyle hard. If you don’t want to drop several million on a mansion, Baron’s Cove will give you a taste for the weekend. Located right along Sag Harbor cove, there’s a salt water pool in the summer, lounge chairs aplenty by said pool, and a preppy interior that looks like Ralph Lauren gave the decorator some tips. Guests can opt for a room that looks out onto the garden or the water. No matter where you stay, there will be nods to nautical design. With a full restaurant that services both guests and other visitors to Sag Harbor, you’ll never have to travel far for a meal here. But, this is the Hamptons, so prepare to shell out $25 for a breakfast sandwich or $26 for a lobster omelet at brunch. At dinner, opt for seafood options like the local catch of the day and a lobster caesar.

Parrish Art Museum Arrow

Driving down Route 27, you'll see what looks like a hyper-elongated modernist barn in an open field with two giant Roy Lichtenstein sculptures out front. This Herzog and de Meuron designed building is home to more than 2,600 works of art, many of them made by artists who lived and worked on the East End during their lifetimes, including Lichtenstein, Fairfield Porter, Willem de Kooning, and Dan Flavin. It's usually an older, quieter crowd—people are here to see the architecture and spend some time contemplating the art in the galleries. It never gets too crowded, unless it's a rainy day on a summer weekend.

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28 Top Day Trips From New York City [2023]

Updated : November 01, 2023

Table of Contents

• The Hamptons, Long Island
• Catskill Mountains
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Woodstock, New York
• Fire Island, Long Island
• Princeton, New Jersey
• Greenwich, Connecticut
• Pocono Mountains
• Sleepy Hollow, New York
• New Hope, Pennsylvania
• Bear Mountain State Park
• Providence, Rhode Island
• Albany, New York
• Atlantic City, New Jersey
• Montauk, Long Island
• Palisades Interstate Park
• Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
• Howes Cave, New York
• Ithaca, New York
• West Chester, Pennsylvania
• Mystic, Connecticut
• Hunter, New York
• Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
• Cold Spring, New York
• Washington, D.C.
• Warwick, New York
• Niagara Falls, New York
• Beacon, New York

Plan Your Day Trip From NYC With AAA

New York City may be one of the top travel destinations in the United States , but there’s plenty to explore outside of the Big Apple. Whether you’re in New York on vacation or already call the city home, NYC is the perfect starting point to explore other areas of the Northeast.

Ready to venture out of the city? Continue reading to discover the 28 best day trips from New York. 

1. The Hamptons, Long Island 

Distance from New York City: 97 miles

Situated on the eastern end of Long Island approximately 100 miles from New York City, the Hamptons provides a serene beach escape. Encompassing a variety of seaside towns and villages, you can spend your day shopping at high-end boutiques and eating at delicious beachside restaurants. 

The most popular time to visit the Hamptons is the summertime, so if you want to avoid the crowds while still enjoying beautiful weather, consider planning your day trip for May or September. 

2. Catskill Mountains

Distance from New York City: 126 miles

Located roughly 120 miles from the city, the Catskill Mountains are a perfect day trip for anyone looking to breathe in some fresh mountain air. As a region of the Appalachian Mountains, the Catskills have plenty of scenic hiking trails and winding rivers to explore. 

3. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Distance from New York City: 94 miles

The easiest way to take a day trip to Philadelphia is by train, and it will only take you a little over an hour. Once you arrive in the historic city, begin your day by sightseeing. From visiting the Liberty Bell to the Rocky Statue , there are plenty of things to do in Philadelphia . 

4. Woodstock, New York 

Distance from New York City: 107 miles

Woodstock is a charming mountain town located approximately three hours by car from the city. Wander down Tinker Street and stop in the eclectic shops and boutiques or pick up a cup of coffee from a local cafe. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, hike the trails at Overlook Mountain and enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River Valley. 

5. Fire Island, Long Island 

Distance from New York City: 63 miles

Nestled on the south shore of Long Island, Fire Island is a quaint barrier island only accessible by ferry. Once you’re on the car-free island, transportation methods include golf carts and bikes. 

Here, you can climb the infamous lighthouse or relax on the pristine beaches. Fire Island is also home to Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines — two popular LGBTQ+ destinations. 

6. Princeton, New Jersey  

Distance from New York City: 51 miles

Home to Princeton University, this New Jersey city sits just over 50 miles from NYC. Take a walking tour of the Ivy League college campus and stroll through the historic downtown. Consider bringing a blanket and having a picnic in Palmer Square! 

7. Greenwich, Connecticut

Distance from New York City: 35 miles

A one-hour train ride from NYC will bring you to the charming town of Greenwich. From art galleries and museums to shopping and spas, there’s no shortage of things to do in the vibrant downtown. Swing by The Lobster Bin to try an infamous Connecticut lobster roll. 

If you’re looking to enjoy time in nature, visit Greenwich Point Park for spectacular views of the NYC skyline. Here, you’ll find sandy shorelines and walking trails to explore. 

8. Pocono Mountains 

Distance from New York City: 92 miles

Just under 100 miles from the city, a visit to the Poconos makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway. In the summertime, activities include white-water rafting, hiking and adventure parks. Meanwhile, in the winter, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tubing, dog sledding and ice skating. 

9. Sleepy Hollow, New York 

Distance from New York City: 33 miles

Well-known as the setting of the story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” this village is easily accessible from the city via a 45-minute train ride. Popular landmarks include Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Headless Horseman Bridge and Washington Irving’s Sunnyside estate. It’s no wonder the most popular time to visit this town is October, when visitors delight in the spooky charm. 

Consider also paying a visit to Philipsburg Manor, a living history museum located in a mill where a community of enslaved individuals once labored. Guided tours educate visitors about slavery in colonial New York. 

10. New Hope, Pennsylvania

Distance from New York City: 68 miles 

Situated near the Delaware River, New Hope is a scenic destination approximately 70 miles southwest of NYC. With riverside eateries and cultural landmarks, a visit to this eclectic town makes an enjoyable day trip. History enthusiasts will want to tour the Parry Mansion Museum, a Georgian-style home built in 1784 by one of the city’s founders. 

To see the picturesque countryside, hop aboard the New Hope Railroad to enjoy a train ride while your guide shares interesting tidbits of history about the towns you pass through. 

11. Bear Mountain State Park 

Distance from New York City: 52 miles

Bear Mountain State Park is just under two hours from the city. Encompassing over 5,200 acres, visitors can enjoy endless activities in nature, like fishing, hiking and swimming. In the winter, you can enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. 

12. Providence, Rhode Island 

Distance from New York City: 181 miles 

The capital city of Rhode Island, Providence has a vibrant culture and rich history. Take a boat tour on the Providence River, where a captain will point out significant landmarks and other points of interest. If you’d rather learn about the supernatural aspects of the city, consider a spooky ghost tour . 

13. Albany, New York 

Distance from New York City: 157 miles

Spend a day venturing to the capital city of New York. Albany is home to the Empire State Plaza, which is regarded as one of the most beautiful capital centers in the United States. The city is also chock-full of museums, shopping destinations and entertainment centers. To add even more excitement to your visit, consider completing a scavenger hunt as you explore the city. 

14. Atlantic City, New Jersey

Distance from New York City: 127 miles

Known for its infamous boardwalk and myriad casinos, Atlantic City is full of entertainment and excitement. Located just over two hours from NYC, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a fun-filled day. Whether you want to try your luck at gambling, ride thrilling amusement park rides or stroll along the sandy shoreline, Atlantic City has something for everyone. 

15. Montauk, Long Island 

Distance from New York City: 118 miles

For a relaxing beach day, head to Montauk. Located at the easternmost end of Long Island, this beachside village is known for its stunning shoreline, oceanfront restaurants and various watersports. Visit Montauk Point State Park to see the iconic 1796 Montauk Point Lighthouse. 

16. Palisades Interstate Park

Distance from New York City: 17 miles

Palisades Interstate Park is located just 17 miles from NYC on the Hudson River. Encompassing 2,500 acres of landscape, the park offers hiking, cycling, fishing, boating and more. From the hiking trails to the shoreline, this is a great place to reconnect with nature without venturing too far from the city. 

17. Bethlehem, Pennsylvania

Distance from New York City: 82 miles 

Situated in the Lehigh Valley, visiting Bethlehem is like stepping back in time. The charming main street is lined with local boutiques and taverns. Make sure to stop by the Moravian Book Shop — the first bookstore in America, founded in 1745. 

During your day trip, visit the Colonial Industrial Quarter to learn about the city’s rich history. This 10-acre site is full of historic buildings to explore, including a blacksmith shop, apothecary, flour mill, tannery and more. 

18. Howes Cave, New York

Distance from New York City: 171 miles

A quaint village located in the Catskill Mountains, Howes Cave is known for its popular natural attraction, Howe Caverns. While the underground caves are over 6 million years old, Howe Caverns were first discovered in 1842 by Lester Howe. Today, visitors can descend over 150 feet below the surface to tour the caverns and see the rock formations and grottos firsthand. 

19. Ithaca, New York

Distance from New York City: 223 miles

Nestled along Cayuga Lake in the Finger Lakes region , Ithaca is the perfect place to go chasing waterfalls. From the over 200-foot cascading waterfall at Taughannock Falls State Park to the six waterfalls on the Cascadilla Gorge Trail, there’s so much to explore. Other notable waterfalls include Triphammer Falls, Ithaca Falls and Robert H. Treman State Park. 

In addition to its natural attractions, Ithaca is home to Cornell University. Download a scavenger hunt for a unique way to tour the campus. 

20. West Chester, Pennsylvania

Distance from New York City: 121 miles

A suburb of Philadelphia, West Chester is a roughly two-hour drive from NYC. The city has the perfect mix of small-town charm and modern amenities. Begin your trip by strolling through downtown and exploring the home decor, clothing and plant shops. If you visit between May and October, stop by Gay Street Open-Air Market to enjoy outdoor shopping and dining vendors. 

To learn about the area’s history, visit the Chester County History Center and enjoy a wide array of exhibits. Conclude your visit with a stroll through the West Chester University campus and admire the blend of Gothic and contemporary architecture. 

21. Mystic, Connecticut

Distance from New York City: 134 miles

Mystic is a coastal town located on the banks of the Mystic River. Kick off your day with a walk downtown, stopping into local shops and art galleries, then stop for lunch at a waterfront restaurant like Red 36 or S&P Oyster Restaurant and Bar . Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum and the Charles W. Morgan Whaleship to learn more about the city’s maritime heritage. 

22. Hunter, New York 

Hunter is a quaint mountain town situated in the Great Northern Catskills. Close enough for a day trip, the most popular attraction in the area is Hunter Mountain Resort . The resort offers hiking, biking and off-roading in the warmer months and skiing and snowboarding in the winter. 

23. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Distance from New York City: 186 miles

Rehoboth Beach is a popular coastal town located in the Mid-Atlantic region. Start your day strolling the mile-long Rehoboth Boardwalk and checking out the arcades, shops and candy stores on your journey. Then visit Funland, an amusement park with rides and games designed for adults and children alike. 

24. Cold Spring, New York 

Distance from New York City: 60 miles

Founded in the early 1800s, Cold Spring is a delightful village located along the Hudson River. Following a walk down Main Street, hike around West Point Foundry Preserve, an outdoor museum that produced weapons during the Civil War era. 

25. Washington, D.C. 

Distance from New York City: 232 miles

Why not take a day trip to our nation’s capital? A train ride takes about three hours from NYC. Once you arrive, there are many free things to do in D.C. that make it a budget-friendly day trip destination. Visit the Smithsonian museums , admire the Washington Monument and explore the lively neighborhoods like Dupont Circle or Georgetown. Plan your day trip for the springtime to catch a glimpse of the blooming cherry blossoms located along the Tidal Basin. 

26. Warwick, New York

Distance from New York City: 57 miles

Located just over 55 miles from the city, Warwick offers endless activities for a day trip. Hike the Appalachian Trail, visit a local winery or horseback ride through the countryside. The best time to visit is in the fall since the town is known for its apple orchards. In fact, its annual Applefest celebration takes place each year in October. 

27. Niagara Falls, New York 

Distance from New York City: 390 miles

Consider taking a day tour from NYC to Niagara Falls . Admire the natural spectacle from several different viewpoints, including Goat Island and Terrapin Point. If you plan your adventure in the warmer months, you can also embark on a boat ride to see the falls from below. 

28. Beacon, New York 

Distance from New York City: 68 miles

An hour-and-a-half train ride from Grand Central Station , Beacon is a pleasant town in the heart of the Hudson Valley . From its Victorian architecture to its natural waterfalls, Beacon is a sight to behold. 

Nature lovers will enjoy a hike up Mount Beacon to enjoy the views from the summit. Explore the main street lined with antique shops and art galleries, then walk along the riverfront to admire the sparkling waters of the Hudson. 

From quaint upstate towns to other bustling metropolitans, the possibilities are endless when it comes to taking day trips from NYC. And with the best public transportation in the United States, you can even embark on your journey without a car via train or bus. 

Take advantage of your AAA membership to earn discounts on rental cars, hotels and tours. Read our AAA Travel guides for more day trip ideas from cities across the country.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from New York City

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15 Top-Rated Day Trips from New York City, NY

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated May 13, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

New York City has so much to offer that many tourists, and even the locals, never venture outside of Manhattan. However, it is well worth escaping the urban jungle to spend time in the peaceful, picturesque surroundings.

Charming historic towns are scattered around the idyllic countryside of New York State and make great day trips from New York City. Especially beautiful in late spring, summer, and autumn, the landscape features forested rolling hills and lush valleys.

Many delightful places to visit are just a 90-minute train ride (or less) from New York City: the colonial-era village of Sleepy Hollow, the quaint rural community of Cold Spring, and the lovely Victorian-era city of Beacon in the Hudson Valley. Even the unspoiled wilderness of Bear Mountain is only a one-hour drive or slightly over an hour train ride away from Manhattan.

Several of the attractions on this list are within greater New York City but are popular day-trip excursions, like Coney Island, Governors Island, and Rockaway Beach; they're ideal for a fun day of recreation and relaxation.

A few destinations on this list are considerably farther away and require a bit more effort to get there. Washington D.C. is over three hours away by train, but it has many impressive cultural attractions that merit the journey. Niagara Falls in Upstate New York is a seven-hour drive from New York City; however, it's possible to visit for the day by taking a flight and organized tour.

Learn about the best places to visit and things to do around the Big Apple with our list of the top day trips from New York City.

1. Washington, D.C.

2. philadelphia, 3. cold spring: a country village in the hudson valley, 4. quaint historic town of beacon, 5. storm king art center, 6. hiking and cycling at bear mountain state park, 7. sleepy hollow and tarrytown: colonial-era villages, 8. summertime fun in coney island, 9. niagara falls, 10. governors island, 11. princeton university and town, 12. rockaway beach, 13. greenwood gardens, 14. shopping at woodbury common and sugar loaf village, 15. farms in long valley, map of day trips from new york city, ny.

Washington, D.C. is a city of epic proportions, in its architectural monuments, as well as cultural heritage. The first president of the United States, George Washington, commissioned French-born city planner Pierre Charles L'Enfant to develop the nation's capital in 1791. L'Enfant designed broad streets and avenues that recall the grand boulevards of Paris, the most elegant capital city of Europe at the time.

The government buildings of Washington, D.C. were designed in lavish Neoclassical style, revealing an architectural and cultural influence from ancient Greece and Rome where democracy first flourished.

Today tourists are inspired by the city's rich heritage, seen in its iconic landmarks, evocative memorials, and superb museums.

Among the many tourist sites of Washington, D.C. , two of the most emblematic are the magnificent domed Capitol building, seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and The White House , the U.S. President's official residence. Tours of the Capitol are available for individuals and groups (advanced reservations are recommended). Guided tours of The White House must be scheduled in advance.

To admire larger-than-life tributes to important U.S. Presidents, visitors should see the Jefferson Memorial and the beloved Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall , an expansive park space. In view from the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials is the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial (unveiled in 2011) honoring the prominent leader of the 1960s Civil Rights Movement.

Art lovers and history buffs could spend days just touring the museums in Washington D.C. The Smithsonian Institution alone consists of 17 different museums, including the National Portrait Gallery , which exhibits portraits of the nation's most influential figures; the popular National Museum of American History ; and the National Air and Space Museum , which chronicles the history of aviation and space travel.

The newest addition to the Smithsonian Institution is the National Museum of African American History and Culture . The extensive collection features diverse topics such as exhibits about Harriet Tubman, historical records of enslaved persons, a South Carolina plantation cabin, photographs of the Tulsa Race Riot, a collection of fliers about hip hop and jazz music events. Admission to the museum requires a timed-entry pass.

Travelers can take the train from New York City to arrive in Washington D.C. However the train ride is 3.5 hours each way, so it's recommended to leave early to ensure a full day of sightseeing. An easier option is going on an organized tour, which allows tourists to visit many of the city's top attractions on a day trip. The Washington, D.C. Day Trip from New York includes transportation by air-conditioned bus and entrance fees.

It's an easy and worthwhile day trip to Philadelphia, just one hour and 35 minutes away by train from New York City. In fact, many Philadelphians commute to work daily in New York City. However, the two cities feel further away in ambience, as Philadelphia has plenty of green spaces and more of a small-town feel.

The main tourist appeal of Philadelphia is its connection to American history. The Old City district (Independence National Historical Park), a one-square-mile historic section of downtown Philadelphia, is packed with landmarks: Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was adopted; the famous Liberty Bell ; Congress Hall; the Betsy Roth House ; the Benjamin Franklin Museum; and the Museum of the American Revolution.

One particularly enchanting corner of the Old City is Elfreth's Alley , the country's first residential street (dating to 1702). The Old City also has many shops, art galleries, and restaurants.

Outside of the Old City, the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) display superb fine arts collections.

Philadelphia is a modern multicultural city with a Chinatown and a large Italian neighborhood ( South Philadelphia ). Philadelphia also has a gritty urban aspect: the grey skyscrapers and industrial warehouses surrounding the historic monuments.

For the most rewarding and stress-free way to visit Philadelphia on a day trip, it's a good idea to take an organized tour. Departing from downtown New York City, the Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip is a full-day guided tour that covers Philadelphia's highlights plus a stop in Lancaster, Pennsylvania and a jaunt through the Amish farm country on a horse-drawn buggy ride.

Considered one of the best-preserved 19th-century towns in the Hudson Valley region , Cold Spring is a charming country village only 50 miles north of Manhattan. The picturesque historic center was built up along the Hudson River.

A babbling brook runs right through the town's Main Street , which is lined with restaurants, boutiques, and antique stores. During summertime, visitors enjoy having coffee at sidewalk cafés and dining by the riverfront or at the restaurants with outdoor patios, many of which offer live music.

Cold Spring has a pleasant riverside park and gardens that inspire relaxation. In the wooded rolling hills surrounding the town are many hiking and biking trails that lead through pastoral scenes of leafy trees and alongside freshwater streams.

Visitors can also participate in water sports, including boating, kayaking, canoeing, paddle-boarding, and waterskiing on the river. In the autumn, fall foliage cruises are popular.

During the summer months, the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival takes places at an outdoor theater in nearby Garrison (one mile away) on the grounds of the Boscobel House and Gardens . This Georgian-style mansion has exquisite gardens on the banks of the Hudson River. Visitors may picnic on the Boscobel lawn or enjoy snacks from a café beside the theater.

In Garrison, the Philipstown Depot Theatre presents top-notch original theater performances throughout the year. Garrison also has several excellent restaurants.

Cold Spring is accessible from New York City by car, train, or ferry. The train ride (which takes a little over one hour) is the easiest way to arrive here. However, traveling by car makes it possible to attend cultural events in the area such as the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. The car ride from New York City to Cold Spring is about 90 minutes depending on traffic.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Cold Spring

Just seven miles from Cold Spring in the lush Hudson Valley countryside, Beacon is an easy day-trip destination from New York City. The car or train (on the Metro North Railroad ) takes about 90 minutes.

The historic town of Beacon brims with classic Americana charm. Handsome red-brick architecture distinguishes the Main Street , which these days is buzzing with activity. Victorian-era buildings are now filled with locally owned boutiques, antique shops, art galleries, museums, cafés, bakeries, and trendy restaurants, as well as more traditional establishments.

For splendid views of the area's natural landscape, outdoorsy types can try the Mount Beacon Incline Railway trail , a hiking path along part of a historic railway route that leads up to the top of Mount Beacon. This hike in the 234-acre Mount Beacon Park takes about one hour each way, and hikers are rewarded with panoramic views from the summit.

Read More: Top Things to Do in Beacon

Just 12 miles away from Beacon, the Storm King Art Center is an expansive sculpture garden in the Hudson Valley . This 500-acre open-air museum is nestled in a bucolic landscape of rolling hills, meadows, and forests.

Dedicated to supporting contemporary artists, as well as protecting the environment, the expansive property exhibits large-scale sculptures and commissioned pieces. The collection includes striking artworks created from the 1950s to the present.

From New York City, it's an easy day trip to the Storm King Art Center by train or bus. Travelers can take the Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central station in New York City to Beacon and then hail a taxi to Storm King Art Center. Another option is the New Jersey Transit train that goes from Penn Station in New York to Salisbury Mills station (three miles from Storm King) or the Coach USA bus that offers round-trip tickets from Port Authority bus terminal.

Official site: https://stormking.org

Bear Mountain State Park is an idyllic retreat in nature, about 50 miles north of New York City on the west bank of the Hudson River. The area was established as a protected nature preserve in 1910, and today is one of the most popular state parks in the United States.

Hikers and cyclists relish the rugged scenery and endless choice of trails. Hundreds of marked paths traverse the park, a vast wilderness that encompasses over 5,000 acres of wooded mountain terrain, including a lake and river with fishing access.

A favorite hike is the 3.6-mile Bear Mountain Summit Loop up to the top of Bear Mountain. The sweeping views from the summit make the challenging uphill journey worthwhile.

Bear Mountain is blanketed with wildflowers in the springtime. During summertime, visitors enjoy the picnic areas in shaded groves, swimming pool, and playing fields. In winter, things to do include cross-country skiing and ice-skating at the outdoor rink. Lake fishing is possible throughout the year; the season for trout fishing in the streams is from April through September.

One of the best times of year to visit Bear Mountain is in autumn, when the vibrant, multicolored fall foliage is spectacular.

Bear Mountain State Park has a few attractions that appeal to families with kids, including children's playgrounds. Another favorite attraction among youngsters is the Trailside Museums and Zoo that educates visitors about natural history, the local environment, and indigenous wildlife. The zoo houses rescued mammals that are native to the state of New York.

Topping the list of children's activities is a ride around the Merry-Go-Round . The park's unique carrousel features hand-carved seats depicting animals of the region, such as the black bear, Canadian goose, deer, raccoon, rabbit, and wild turkey.

It takes about 75 minutes to arrive here by train by Metro-North Railroad from Grand Central station to the Peekskill station, and then it's six miles by taxi to Bear Mountain State Park. Alternatively, visitors can hop on the Coach USA at the New York City Port Authority terminal for an easy one-hour bus ride to Bear Mountain State Park.

Sleepy Hollow is a colonial-era village on the Hudson River (about 20 miles north of New York City), an area that was historically a center of farming and milling. It's easy to arrive here by car or the Metro North Railroad (which takes just under an hour from Grand Central Station).

Sleepy Hollow was the setting of Washington Irving's The Legend of Sleepy Hollo w , the story about a headless horseman, and is famous for its Halloween festivities throughout the month of October, when the town comes to life with haunted hayrides, glowing pumpkins, live music, literary events, street fairs, and parades. Of course, the Headless Horseman is sure to make an appearance.

The Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is considered a must-see sight during Halloween or any time of year. Daytime and evening cemetery walking tours are offered from April through October. For the evening tours, the cemetery is illuminated by kerosene lanterns.

Other tourist highlights in Sleepy Hollow are the 17th-century Old Dutch Church and the Philipsburg Manor , both mentioned in Irving's short story.

Visitors can also try to find the Headless Horseman Bridge , although it's unknown which of the rustic bridges spanning the Pocantico River is the one that Irving described in his story.

Another top attraction is Kykuit , a landmark registered by the National Trust for Historic Preservation that is open to the public for guided tours. Four generations of Rockefellers lived in this stately mansion, which is perched on a hilltop surrounded by magnificent gardens overlooking the Hudson River.

Less than one mile away from Sleepy Hollow is Tarrytown , another quaint colonial village with a National Trust landmark: Lyndhurst , a 19th-century Gothic Revival mansion that was owned by railroad baron Jay Gould. Visitors may take a Mansion Tour or purchase a Grounds Pass to see the lovely gardens on the 67-acre estate.

Tourists can travel a few miles further (three miles away) to Sunnyside , the home of author Washington Irving. This estate in the town of Irvington was originally a Dutch farmer's house and is now open to the public. Beginning in mid-September, the site ("the home of the legend") treats visitors to a special Halloween experience, featuring a scavenger hunt and exhibits about The Legend of Sleepy Hollow .

With its roller coaster rides and famous fairground foods, Coney Island is synonymous with summertime fun. This iconic seaside destination, although not technically an island, is in the southernmost part of Brooklyn, only 14 miles away from Manhattan, and easily accessible by subway.

Epitomizing American popular culture, the old-fashioned Amusement Park allows visitors to forget their cares and have a few hours of fun. Besides the Amusement Park roller-coaster rides, games, and Beach Boardwalk , Coney Island also has museums, film screenings, and circus performances.

Coney Island is open seasonally from Easter until Halloween. The park has more than 50 rides and attractions with opening hours only on weekends from Easter through Memorial Day, and all week long from Memorial Day until Labor Day, then only on weekends from Labor Day through October.

The Coney Island beach and boardwalk are open year-round; lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The New York Aquarium and Nathan's Famous hot dog stand are open almost daily year-round.

During the summer (end of June through August), visitors are dazzled by fireworks displays every Friday evening at 9:30pm. The fireworks shows take place on the beach.

Address: Coney Island, Brooklyn 11224

Official site: http://coneyislandfunguide.com

For breathtaking natural scenery, Niagara Falls is the ultimate destination. Although the location in Upstate New York is too far away to drive from New York City for the day, it is possible to visit on a day trip by taking a short flight.

The Niagara Falls Day Trip from New York City by Air coordinates the ground transportation and flights to and from New York City. The day trip package also includes a guided tour of the Niagara Falls area, a boat cruise past the waterfalls, and a buffet lunch.

Just a short ferry ride away from Manhattan, Governors Island is an escape from the hubbub of New York City. The ferry leaves from the Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street) in Manhattan or Pier 6 (Brooklyn Bridge Park) in Brooklyn and arrives at Soissons Landing or Yankee Pier on Governors Island. A visitor's first impression will be the peaceful traffic-free atmosphere and sensational views of New York City.

The island's 70-foot-high Hills space offers amazing panoramas of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and the New York Harbor.

For more stunning vistas, Castle Williams is not to be missed. Built between 1807 and 1811, this coastal fort was designed by the Chief Engineer of the U.S. Army as a sentinel overlooking the New York Harbor. Currently managed by the National Park Services, Castle Williams is open to the public on weekends.

Besides the beautiful scenery, the other main reason to visit Governors Island is for the recreational activities. Visitors can go cycling, walking, enjoy picnics, or play miniature golf. For a casual meal or snack, tourists can choose from several casual restaurants and a few ice cream shops.

Culture hounds will appreciate that Governor's Island hosts events such as art exhibits and film festivals; check the schedule before planning a trip.

Official site: https://govisland.com

Founded in 1756, Princeton University is a prestigious Ivy League institution in a serene, park-like setting. Around 180 university buildings grace the campus' expansive 500-acre grounds. Meandering tree-shaded paths lead from dorm rooms to classrooms and libraries.

Visitors will enjoy wandering around the campus, while admiring the inspiring ivy-covered halls. The architecture of the university's buildings reflects a wide range of styles, from colonial and Romanesque to modern. Many of the Collegiate Gothic buildings were modeled after the medieval halls of Oxford and Cambridge in England.

The campus' most noteworthy monument is the colonial-era Nassau Hall , built in 1756. This historic landmark witnessed a turning point in the Revolutionary War during the Battle of Princeton in 1777. British troops surrendered to General George Washington here, and Nassau Hall then became the new nation's capital building.

The Historical Society of Princeton offers guided two-hour walking tours of the Princeton University campus and the town every Sunday at 2pm.

Cultural attractions abound in Princeton. Visitors can admire a prestigious fine arts collection at the Princeton University Art Museum and learn about American history at the Morven Museum , which is housed in a National Historic Landmark.

For cultural performances, the McCarter Theatre Center presents Tony Award-winning theater, as well as dance, jazz, classical music, and comedy performances. The Princeton Garden Theatre screens artistic independent films, classic Hollywood movies, foreign films, and screenings of live broadcasts of theatrical events. The Princeton Garden Theatre also hosts an Outdoor Cinema Series.

At Rider University in Princeton, the Westminster Choir College is renowned for its opera and choral performances.

The downtown of Princeton invites visitors to take a leisurely stroll, browse locally owned boutiques, grab a bite to eat, or dine at one of the upscale restaurants. For those who have more time, the town of Princeton is a wonderful place to spend the night.

On the handsome Palmer Square in the heart of downtown Princeton, the Colonial-era Nassau Inn is a luxury hotel that blends traditional style with contemporary elegance. Another landmark in downtown Princeton is The Peacock Inn , a boutique hotel in a renovated historic mansion. Both the Nassau Inn and the Peacock Inn have excellent restaurants.

If visiting from mid-September through October, it's worth heading over to Terhune Orchards (four miles from Princeton) for Apple Day . This festive annual event includes apple picking, live music, and pumpkin paintings.

About 21 miles from Manhattan in Queens, Rockaway Beach is actually several different beaches along the expansive stretch between 3rd Street and 153rd Street. Known as the best beach destination near the city, Rockaway Beach merits the one-hour journey from downtown Manhattan by subway.

Rockaway beach buzzes with activity during the high season, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. On balmy summer days, sunbathers, swimmers, and surfers come out in droves, however this gorgeous seaside destination is popular year-round.

Enjoy the refreshing ocean scenery; go for a walk along the sandy beach; and stop for a snack at one of the casual eateries or food stands on the Beach Boardwalk at 86th Street, 97th Street, and 106th Street. Rockaway Beach also has public restrooms and shower facilities, seven playgrounds, fishing areas, skate parks, handball courts, volleyball courts, a roller hockey field, and basketball courts.

This splendid 28-acre formal garden is surrounded by 1,200 acres of parkland, including the forests of South Mountain Reservation. Previously a private estate with an elegant manor house, Greenwood Garden was transformed in 2000 into a nonprofit conservation organization and public garden. The property features a blend of contemporary, classical, and Arts & Crafts garden-design styles.

Visitors are delighted by the Italianate-style terraces, moss-covered paths, groves of shady plane and spruce trees, and wildflower meadows.

Greenwood Gardens also offers events throughout the year such as lectures about gardening and holiday festivities. Visitors may take birding walks led by an Audubon Naturalist or a guided walking tour of the garden to learn about the garden's history and landscaping.

Greenwood Gardens is in Short Hills, New Jersey, just 22 miles from New York City, which is easily accessible by train. The ride on New Jersey Transit begins at Penn Station and takes about one hour and 30 minutes.

Address: 274 Old Short Hills Road, Short Hills, NJ

Official site: http://greenwoodgardens.org

For brand-name shopping at reduced prices, fashion mavens make a beeline to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets in Central Valley, about 50 miles (a 90-minute drive) north of New York City. The wide selection of designer-label outlets includes Balenciaga, Bottega Veneta, Brunello Cucinelli, Calvin Klein, Escada, Fendi, Gucci, Izod, Kate Spade, Lacoste, Levi's, Loro Piana, MaxMara, Tommy Hilfiger, Valentino, and Versace.

Just 11 miles away from Woodbury Common, the place to go for shopping at artisan boutiques is Sugar Loaf Art & Craft Village . Tucked away amid the apple orchards and ranches of Warwick Valley, Sugar Loaf is a community of craftsmen that was founded in 1749.

In the little village of Sugar Loaf, artisans live and work in renovated 18th-century buildings. Sugar Loaf artisans create handmade pottery, paintings, candles, furniture, and jewelry that is available for purchase at the village's adorable boutiques.

A top destination for autumn outdoor activities, Long Valley is a pastoral area of New Jersey just 55 miles from New York City. The fall foliage is especially splendid here because of the many tall, leafy trees that line the valley's country roads. Besides leaf peeping in September, October, and November (depending on the year), other attractions of Long Valley are horseback riding and the local farms.

Many of the farms in this area allow visitors to pick their own pumpkins, apples, and fresh vegetables during harvest season. The 400-acre Ort Farms entertains kids with its gentle farm animals and delights parents with its old-fashioned grocery store.

The Willow Grove Farm offers horseback riding lessons and horse-drawn wagon rides.

Covering 120 acres, the Valley Shepherd Creamery is a working sheep diary that produces the finest artisanal cheeses and leads farm tours that explain the cheesemaking process.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Nearby Beach Vacation Destinations : During summertime, vacationers flock to the beach resorts within easy reach of New York City. Topping the list of weekend getaways is the Hamptons (a three-hour drive from NYC) on the southern tip of Long Island, but many great beaches on Long Island , such as Fire Island, are closer. About a 2.5-hour drive away are fabulous beaches on the Jersey Shore . It's worth the four- to five-hour drive to picturesque Cape Cod for its seaside charm and superb sandy beaches .

Weekend Getaways in Upstate New York : The resorts of Upstate New York and the attractions of the Hudson Valley draw many visitors. In a tranquil region of wooded rolling hills, several upscale Catskills resorts are just a two-hour drive from NYC. Other highlights of Upstate New York include Otsego Lake in Cooperstown (a 4.5-hour drive), renowned for its luxury resort hotel; Saratoga Springs , famous for its spa and horse racing; and The Sagamore on Lake George (a four-hour drive), one of the best resorts in the Adirondacks .

Relaxing Escapes in Rural Pennsylvania : Among the small towns of Pennsylvania , Lancaster and Lilitz (both about a 3.5-hour drive from New York City) are great places for a peaceful escape in Amish farm country. Besides Lancaster County, other weekend getaway destinations in Pennsylvania include the Pocono Mountains (a two-hour-and-45-minute drive from New York City). This pristine natural environment draws many visitors for hiking, cycling, white water rafting, bird-watching, and other recreational activities.

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Home » North America » USA » 13 Amazing Day Trips to Take from New York City | 2024

13 Amazing Day Trips to Take from New York City | 2024

The Big Apple is an iconic city – home to a diverse population and a huge range of activities and places to see. Taking a day trip from New York is one of the best ways for tourists, and locals, to get a break from the fast-paced life and enjoy a change of scenery. 

Manhattan is ideally positioned between New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut, making it easy to visit neighboring states for a day trip. It’s also on the North Atlantic Coastline, where there are sunny beach locations, mountains, and local farms surrounding the big city.

Whether you want to kick back and relax on a beach, explore another big city, or embark on a wine-tasting adventure, New York really has it all!

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Getting Around New York and Beyond

Half-day trips in new york, full-day trips in new york, final thoughts.

New York is well designed for pedestrians, with wide sidewalks and designated street crossings. Walking and cycling are some of the best ways to explore New York , with the best walking and cycling paths being the Central Park routes, Hudson River path, the High Line, and the Brooklyn Bridge walking path.

It’s no secret that traffic and parking is intense. Renting a car would be pretty inconvenient for your trip. Cabs can help get you from point A to B when you need. New York’s famous yellow taxi cabs are a recognizable icon of the city, and are widely available.

Take note : some taxis only accept cash, and most expect tips between 15% and 20%.

The most common form of transportation is the Metro or Subway, and you’ll understand why after a pricey taxi during rush hour. It operates 24 hours a day, and also runs bus and ferry services across the city. 

The Subway has 24 lines that serve Manhattan, the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. While the bus system operates over 250 routes, and bus stops are clearly demarcated with round bus stop signs and route numbers. Basically, it is easy to get pretty much anywhere you wanna go!

An MTA MetroCard costs $1 to activate and must have a minimum value of $5.50. A single route subway or bus journey costs $2.75. If you’re in the city for a while, you might want to invest in an unlimited MetroCard which allows you to ride for seven days for $33.

Even though New York isn’t huge in geographical terms, it can take a while to get in and out of the center of the city. If you’re strapped for time, a half-day trip in New York will give you a taste of the surrounding area without taking too much of your day.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island is located at the mouth of the Hudson River between New York and New Jersey. It is famous for its rich history as an immigration station, welcoming more than 12 million immigrants into the country from 1890-1920. Today, it’s an iconic landmark and powerful symbol of the American Dream.

The island houses a National Immigration Museum and Family History Center. You can search through a collection of records to trace back your family history (if you are American), and find out when your family first arrived in the US.

Even if you don’t have family ancestry to browse through, the island is a historical marvel that boasts some impressive architecture and fun interactive activities.

Ellis Island also has some of the best views of The Statue of Liberty, which is another must do thing in New York !

Suggested trips: Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty Tour

Pad out your weekend in New York with a trip across the river. Hoboken is a small city in New Jersey that lies just across the Hudson River from Manhattan. As it’s only a 30-minute drive from lower Manhattan, it’s a great spot to spend some time outside of New York. 

Even though it’s labeled a city, I like to think of Hoboken as a small walkable town, with a charming and unique vibe. While it’s hard to leave the razzle dazzle of the Big Apple, once you get to Hoboken everything runs at a slower pace. You’ll be treated to boutique eateries, bars, and local shops. 

One of my favorite things about this small city is that it’s relatively tourist-free. You can experience a completely different atmosphere only a few miles away from New York.

The main draw to this riverside town is its views from River Street along the Hudson River. When you imagine the New York skyline, it’s this postcard-perfect view that comes to mind. Take a stroll down the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway for the best views, before heading to the original Cake Boss pastry shop for a sweet treat.

Suggested trips: Half-Day Tour to Hoboken with Skyline Views

Woodbury Commons 

If Fifth Avenue is a bit out of your price range, Woodbury Commons is the next best shopping spot in New York. It’s only an hour drive from Manhattan, and has a wealth of brands and deals.

The best days to visit are Monday through Thursday, before the weekend crowds take over. You’ll find everything from luxury Prada and Gucci retailers, to Lindt Chocolate Shops and Applebee’s. You are guaranteed your favorite store is hidden away in this sprawling mall.

The best thing, is that it’s entirely outdoors. You’ll be getting some fresh air while you shop around for the best deals. Winter wanderers, wrap up warm!

Suggested trips: Woodbury Commons Outlet Shopping Trip

When you have a bit more time on your hands, New York is positioned between the mountains, oceans, forests, and a bunch of other cities. These are some day trips from New York that will give you a chance to explore something other than the busy streets of the city.

The Hamptons

The Hamptons is a classic for locals. Located at the east end of Long Island, it is just about two hours drive from Manhattan (given you don’t get stuck in heavy traffic). 

There is East Hampton and Southampton, both known for their rural vibe and small-town charm. You’ll find pristine sidewalks, local wineries, manicured parks, and perfectly organized shop and restaurant displays throughout the towns. They look like a picture-perfect movie set most of the time.

Sag Harbor sits between East and Southampton, and is a historic landmark in itself. Back in its early days, it was the first port of entry to the new Unites States, and is home to the first US Customs house. 

Besides the charming towns and villages, the Hamptons are lined with exquisite beaches that draw beachgoers to their shores every summer. But note, many beaches are private and require residents’ permits, while some public beaches require day pass permits.

On weekends, the Main Beach in East Hampton and Two Mile Hollow Beach only release forty day-passes each day. Be sure to have this organized in your New York itinerary if you want a sandy day!

If you continue along the coast, you’ll find Montauk right at the end. Also an epic getaway spot and home to some gorgeous, cosy Montauk Bed and Breakfasts to rest your head at.

Suggested trips: The Hamptons and Sag Harbor and The Hamptons and Long Island Wineries

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a small beach town located at the southern horn of New Jersey, and is only a two and a half hour drive from New York.

Cape May is known for its beautiful beaches and boardwalks, but there is more to explore than the surf and sand. The town has a rich history and boasts 19th-century architectural diversity. In fact, the picturesque town holds the title of the ‘First Seaside Holiday Town in America’.

A hotspot for outdoor activities, there is biking, boating, bird watching, and fishing, if you’re feeling adventurous. If relaxing is more your speed, there are many fine dining restaurants and antique shops to browse. Why not extend your trip and spend a night in this cozy condo .

Long Island

Long Island is the biggest island in the USA and extends from New York to Montauk Point, just past the Hamptons. Fun fact – the well-known New York neighborhoods of Brooklyn and Queens are actually located on this island!

Long Island is packed with fun things to do for the whole family. It’s hard to fit all its offerings into a single-day tour, consider staying in Long Island and make a full itinerary! From stunning hikes, beaches, and vineyards to manicured gardens, extravagant mansions, and seaside villages, there’s an abundance of things to explore. 

It is an easy trip to do alone, without the guidance of a tour guide.

Suggested trips: Long Island Wine Tour and Long Island Brewery Tour

The Delaware River

The Delaware River is a huge river that passes through five states, and provides drinking water for millions of Americans. It starts through Philadelphia, before splitting off into different tributaries in the northern part of the state. Depending on what point of the river you visit, it’s only about an hour and a half drive out of New York.

The river isn’t only used as a water source, it’s also a great place to enjoy some outdoor activities! When you’re itching to escape the dynamic city of New York, visit the river for a kayaking trip and some outdoor fun. 

There are also tons of walking, hiking, and mountain biking trails along the river’s edge.

Suggested trips: Delaware River Kayak and Wine Tour

The Catskills

No matter how much of a city person you are, it’s always great to get out of the hustle and bustle and explore the great outdoors. The Catskills are a mountain range in Upstate New York, located two hours north of Manhattan. 

During the summer months, it is a great hiking location with a bunch of waterfalls, river streams, and tall peaks to explore. My favorite time to visit is during winter, when a thick layer of snow covers the mountains. The Catskills are home to two of New York’s top ski resorts – Hunter Mountain and Windham Mountain. Both are great for every level of skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, or just enjoying a hot cocoa.

There are a few small villages to explore too. Two of the best towns worth checking out are Tannersville and Andes, both of which have a bunch of cafes, eateries, day spas, and shops to keep you busy.

Airbnb experience: Horseback Guided Mountain Trail in the Catskills

Philadelphia and Amish Country

One of the most unique day trips from New York is a trip to Amish Country in Pennsylvania for a taste of the simple life. In a world overcome with modern technology, life can get pretty fast-paced and stressful, and I’m sure we’ve all been intrigued by the low-key lifestyle of the Amish Mennonite people.

Lancaster County is located just west of Philadelphia, and is home to America’s largest Amish community. You can hop on the train at Penn Station in Manhatten and be in Philidelphia within an hour and a half. From there, rent a car or join one of the local Amish country guided tours.

When you visit this region, you’ll be able to explore markets and experience local cooking and cuisine. You can even have an authentic Amish buggy ride through the countryside, and learn what it’s like to live without modern technology. Try leaving your phone off during the tour to get the full experience!

Suggested trips: The Amish Country with Amish Mennonite Guides

Hartford, Connecticut

Hartford is the capital city of Connecticut, and is only a two and a half hour drive, or train ride, from Manhattan. Founded in 1635, it is one of the oldest cities in America, and houses the country’s oldest public art museum as well as the famous Mark Twain House.

I recommend making a trip to the Connecticut Science Center, especially for those with young kids. The museum has a bunch of DIY activities that explore the science of sound, sight, and space.

If the weather cooperates, stop off at the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden for some fresh air and beautiful views. It’s one of the most extensive rose gardens in the country, with over 800 varieties of roses. Bushnell Park is another great outdoor space to enjoy the sunshine.

If a day isn’t enough time to explore all that Hartford has to offer, book a night at this cozy suite .

New Haven and Yale University

From uncrowded beaches to tasty cuisine and exciting art, New Haven is a beautiful place to visit from Manhattan, especially during the summer. This Connecticut town is only an hour and forty minutes from New York by car, and is most well known for being the home of Yale University. 

With the Ivy League school bringing academics and students to the city, you’ll be able to watch collegiate sports matches, see world-class events, festivals, shops, museums, and of course, some top restaurants and bars too. 

Besides the exquisite university campuses, New Haven is dotted with spectacular churches and buildings, and a culturally exciting downtown. Some of the best restaurants in the city can be found in Little Italy, which is a great spot to grab some grub after a day exploring.

For those who really want to immerse in the city, this full loft condo in the heart of the action is perfect.

The Poconos Mountains 

The Poconos is another beautiful mountain region in Pennsylvania that is just a couple of hours’ drive from New York City.

During summer, it is most well known for bird watching, zip-lining, fishing, and whitewater rafting. Depending on how much time you have to spend, you can embark on an overnight hike or spend the day exploring the botanical wonders.

Those visiting with young kids can enjoy the local adventure and water parks. With stunning lakes in the valley mountains, there are also loads of lake beaches to relax on, if that’s more your vibe. 

When winter hits, the mountains become a wonderland covered with snow attracting all sorts of winter sports fanatics. There are five main ski resorts in these mountains, including Big Boulder Ski Area, Blue Mountain Resort, and Camelback Mountain.

The resort villages and towns appropriately self-define themselves as ‘small-town charm meets big mountains.’

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Don’t Forget your New York Travel Insurance

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

New York is one of those cities that never stops giving. However, a visit isn’t complete without seeing more of what New York state, and surrounding states, have to offer.

As the city is conveniently located between New Jersey and Connecticut, and only a quick drive from Philadelphia and Maryland, you can take some of the most exciting day trips from New York City. 

My personal favorite trip would have to be a trip to the Poconos or Catskills. After spending a week or so in the big city, there’s nothing better than escaping to the mountains, whether it be to ski in winter or hike in the summer.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Mary Beth Skylis

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from New York City

Day trips from new york city.

• New York City to Washington DC
• New York City to Central Valley
• New York City to Philadelphia
• New York City to Niagara Falls
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Chinese (Traditional)
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island

2. NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Contrasts, Color and Character

3. Washington DC Day Tour from New York City

4. Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Manhattan

5. Washington DC Day Trip from New York City

6. City of Contrasts Tour-Manhattan, Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn

7. Niagara Falls in One Day from New York City

8. Washington DC and Philadelphia in One Day from NYC

9. Deluxe Private VIP Tour by SUV: Best of NYC. Select 3 or 5 hours

10. Day trip to Washington from New York

11. Excursion to Washington from New York in 1 day

12. Long Island Full Day Wine and Food Tasting Vineyard Tour from NYC

13. New York Contrasts Tour

14. Niagara Falls One Day Tour from New York City

15. Boston Freedom Trail Day Trip from New York City

16. Washington DC and Monuments Day Tour from New York

17. New York City bus and boat tour

18. Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip from New York City

19. Long Island Wine Tour from Manhattan (3 Wineries & Tasty Lunch)

20. Niagara Falls Tour 1 Day

21. Private Custom New York City Tour by SUV

22. Hamptons Private Day Trip from New York City

23. Full-Day Sightseeing Tour in New York City

24. Explore NYC- Tour of Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens & Brooklyn

25. Excursion from New York to Washington 1 Day

26. Full day Washington DC Tour from New York City

27. The Best of New York City Self-Guided Audio Walking Bundle Tour

28. NYC Private Tour with a Local, Highlights & Hidden Gems, 100% Personalized

29. Discover Subway Secrets Underneath Lower Manhattan - Private

30. Woodbury Common Premium Outlet Shopping Private Day Trip by SUV from NYC

What travellers are saying.

• Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island
• NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Contrasts, Color and Character
• Washington DC Day Tour from New York City
• Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Shopping Tour from Manhattan
• Washington DC Day Trip from New York City
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USA Tours & Trips from New York City

Find your perfect adventure! We have 48 tours of USA that start in New York City, USA. The most popular month is August, and tour lengths range between 2 and 25 days.

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48 usa tour packages from new york city with 349 reviews.

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

New York and Washington

• Christmas & New Year

Philadelphia, Amish Country and Washington DC - 2 Days

Adorabile la nostra guida Mirko , gentile ed educato , grazie mille per il bel giro

• In-depth Cultural

American Gateway – 4 Days

Awesome tour . Good time , met new friends

New York to Miami

Excellent coordination. Proper time management. Very good accommodation.. Very good transport. All over it was a nice trip.

USA - American Getaway

East Coast Explorer: 8-Day Group Tour of New York, Boston & Washington DC Adventure

A lot of travelling but you get to see a lot in a short amount of time. Excellent guides!

USA 2 Days tour to Philadelphia, Washington DC and Amish Country

New York to Miami (10 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Real Big Apple to Big Easy

Niagara Falls, Washington DC, Philadelphia & Amish Country 4D/3N (from New York)

A hectic and fast paced trip, starting with early mornings. Loved Niagara Falls and being able to go to the Canadian side for one night (remember to apply for a Canadian Esta and bring your passport). Pennsylvania and Amish country side was a treat. Wish we had more time there. Love hearing about American history. Then Washington DC- amazing city. We disembarked after touring DC monuments and aeronautical museum and spent two more days in DC. Wharf, eateries, sights and monuments within reach.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

American Triangle – 5 Days

The tour was great and very informative. Our tour guide was awesome and friendly and making sure everyone is ok.

Get Social: USA East to West

• €75 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

New York Uncovered (4 Days)

I loved this tour and our guide Jon was great. However it should be advertised as a 3 day tour as the 4th day is just check out of the hotel, no activities.

Special Washington end NY

Iconic Cities & Natural Marvels: 21-Day USA Group Tour from East to West Coast

From a speedboat to the Statue of Liberty to fireworks on 4th July in Washington to hiking to Yosemite Falls, this trip showcased the very best the USA has to offer. I went on the 21 day Full Cyote trip from New York to San Francisco with my brother. With such a packed itinerary of included activities, it offered great value for money. The guides in every region we visited were excellent. A particular shout out to Ryan, who added in extra stops and experiences based on the group's interests. Other highlights included the Grand Canyon, Washington's museums, whale watching in Boston, cycling across the Golden Gate Bridge and sunset in Griffeths Park. I met a great group of people on the trip, and I wouldn't hesitate to book with the Cyote Trip again.

What people love about USA Tours from New York City

Bellissima esperienza fatta con amici , Mirko e' stato una guida simpatica e gentile , da ripetere al più presto. grazie

Overall the 2 tour guides were good, especially Brian who guided us from NJ La Quinta to Philadelphia, Amish Country to DC and back to NY. Loved his sense of humor, his knowledge- will definitely recommend him to anyone! Great job Brian! And thank you !!

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See a Model of JFK Airport’s Lost Worldport at the Pan Am Museum

Inside the Abandoned Veterans Memorial Hospital Unit of Kings Park Psychiatric Center

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Kings Park Psychiatric Center opened in 1885 on Long Island as a farm colony branch of the Kings County Lunatic Asylum in Flatbush , Brooklyn. It grew rapidly over the next 111 years, treating nearly 10,000 patients at its peak operation in 1954. In the 1920s, Kings Park added a Veterans Memorial Hospital Unit (VMHU), the first state-operated mental health facility dedicated solely to the treatment of United States veterans. This addition is generally noted as one of the most significant events in the history of the state hospital system. Here, we take a look inside and discover what the remaining buildings look like now.

As Kings Park saw rapid expansion following World War I, treatment for veterans suffering from mental illness was so inadequate that in 1922 New York State Governor Alfred E. Smith urged the legislature to build a separate facility – a new Veterans Memorial Hospital Unit (VMHU) – specializing in treating what we now know as PTSD. The term ‘memorial hospital’ was given by the State in the belief that all veterans would eventually be released or pass away and the building would remain in use for general patients as a lasting honor to vets.

Following Smith’s recommendation, $1.5 million was appropriated for the construction of a new Veterans Memorial Hospital with space for 900 patient beds in connection with Kings Park State Hospital (Kings Park Psychiatric Center). Overseen by New York State architect Sullivan W. Jones, the project broke ground on July 4, 1923. There were 21 buildings including a state-of-the-art medical/surgical facility that offered treatment, recreational opportunities, and occupational therapy. Other buildings were used for continued treatment, administration, and housing for the hospital nurses, attendants, and rehabilitative personnel.

Of the 21 buildings of the Veterans Memorial Hospital Unit, the most notable are:

• Building 39 – provided continued care for patients
• Building 125 – housed the admissions center and administration offices for the VMU. It now serves as the Nissequogue River State Park office
• Building 136 – served as the main medical/surgical facility which was comprised of an acute and chronic infirmary, medical and diagnostic center, surgery suite, and a dental office.
• Building 137 – kitchen and dining room that served Building 136
• Building 144 (Home T) – provided housing for the hospital’s attendants.

The opening ceremony for the VMU was held on September 24, 1927. New York State Governor Alfred E. Smith and many representatives from the military, state, and federal government were in attendance. Major General William Haskell of the New York State National Guard unveiled a memorial plaque at the opening.

One week following the opening of the VMU, 19 veterans were transferred from other wards at Kings Park to the Long Island Unit. In March of the following year, the VMU received 50 veterans from Manhattan State Hospital and then 100 in April from Central Islip State Hospital. By May 31, 1954, the patient population at the VMU was 1,480. Of the veterans at the hospital, one served in the Indian Wars, 23 in the Spanish-American War, 844 in World War I, and 612 in World War II.

In addition to providing treatment for mental illness, the VMU established a robust occupational therapy program for veterans. This included the opening of a workshop and a pottery shop. Recreation programs included baseball games, weekly dances, access to a library, daily newspapers, magazines, and motion pictures. Hospital wards contained ping pong tables, billiards, shuffleboard, and other stimulating activities.

The Veterans Memorial Unit at Kings Park was not directly connected to the Veterans Administration. The VA however did have the power of inspection, since the VMU had several service-connected cases for care which were reimbursed by the federal government. The VA also monitored the expenditures of patients who received government funds. The hospital treated veterans until the 1970s when wards were opened to general patients. 

After closing in 1996, the VMU along with the rest of KPPC sat shuttered and abandoned. In 2000, New York State Governor George Pataki reopened the grounds as the Nissequogue River State Park . The land is legally protected from commercial and residential redevelopment. Today, many of the VMU buildings dating back to the 1920s now stand shuttered and decaying.

Join John Lazzarro, author of A Vanishing New York: Ruins Across the Empire State, for a live virtual talk where he’ll share abandoned sites of the Thousand Island Seaway and Central Regions of New York on May 8th! This talk is free for Untapped New York Insiders.

A Vanishing New York Virtual Talk

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John Lazzaro

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Breaking news, future and metro boomin announce ‘we trust you tour.’ get tickets.

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If you’re a fan of Future , there’s no better time than the present.

In addition to dropping a new album on April 12, the popular rapper just announced his 27-concert arena ‘We Trust You Tour’ with producer Metro Boomin.

Midway through the summer run, the Hip-Hop icons are slated to drop into Brooklyn’s Barclays Center on Thursday, Aug. 15.

On this jaunt, fans can expect to hear tracks from the duo’s aforementioned No. 1 record “We Don’t Trust You,” which includes guest spots from big-name collaborators like J. Cole, A$AP Rocky, The Weeknd, Ty Dolla $ign, and Lil Baby.

For those that can’t wait to catch Future and Metro Boomin go hard live this year — maybe with some help from their high-profile friends — tickets can be scooped up for all ‘We Trust You Tour’ concerts as soon as today.

Although inventory isn’t available on Ticketmaster until Friday, April 19, fans who want to ensure they have tickets ahead of time can purchase on sites like Vivid Seats before tickets are officially on sale.

Vivid Seats is a secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand.

They have a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and will be delivered before the event.

Future and Metro Boomin tickets 2024

A complete calendar including all tour dates, venues and links to buy tickets can be found here.

Lollapalooza 2024

On Aug. 1-4, Lollapalooza returns to Chicago’s Hutchinson Field at Grant Park for four days of rock, punk, Hip-Hop, R&B, K-Pop and more.

Headliners joining Future and Metro Boomin include R&B icon  SZA , indie rock heroes  The Killers , K-Pop superstars  Stray Kids , pop-punk hitmakers  Blink-182  and Hip-Hop headliner  Tyler, The Creator .

Want to go?

You can pick up single and multi-day Lollapalooza passes here .

Future and Metro Boomin new music

On April 12, Future and Metro Boomin dropped their electric two-disc album “We Don’t Trust You.”

Comprised of 25 tracks, the record is a showcase for Metro Boomin’s glittery production and Future’s impeccable flow.

After a few listens, we were wowed by the trippy “Jealous,” soaring “Right 4 You” and blissed out “Gracious.”

However, our team couldn’t stop coming back to the hypnotic, retro-futuristic sound of the album opener “We Still Don’t Trust You” featuring The Weeknd. Listen once and you’ll come back for more, too; a single spin simply does not suffice with music this catchy.

Want to give the record a whirl?

You can find “We Don’t Trust You” in its glorious entirety here .

Hip-Hop stars on tour in 2024

Keep your eyes peeled, Hip-Hop heads.

Many of the biggest names in the game are hitting the road these next few months.

To keep you in the loop, here are just five of our favorites you won’t want to miss in the near future.

•  Missy Elliott with Busta Rhymes and Ciara

• A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie

•  21 Savage

•  Lil Wayne

Who else is out and about? Take a look at our list of the 50 biggest concert tours in 2024 for a closer look.

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements for your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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Germany’s Leader Walks a Fine Line in China

Chancellor Olaf Scholz tried to promote German business interests while delivering warnings from Europe about trade and geopolitical tensions.

By Alexandra Stevenson and Melissa Eddy

Chancellor Olaf Scholz of Germany tried to strike a delicate balance on a trip to China this week, promoting business ties with his country’s biggest trading partner while raising concerns over its surge of exports to Europe and its support for Russia.

Mr. Scholz met with China’s top leader, Xi Jinping, at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on Tuesday, the culmination of a three-day visit with a delegation of German officials and business leaders. He also met with Premier Li Qiang as the two countries navigate relations strained by Russia’s war in Ukraine and China’s rivalry with the United States, Germany’s most important ally.

Throughout his trip, Mr. Scholz promoted the interests of German companies that are finding it increasingly hard to compete in China. And he conveyed growing concern in the European Union that the region’s market is becoming a dumping ground for Chinese goods produced at a loss .

But Mr. Scholz chose a conciliatory tone over a combative one in his opening remarks before sitting down with Mr. Xi on Tuesday morning, in a meeting that stretched over three hours and turned into a walk and lunch.

It was the German leader’s first visit to China since his government adopted a strategy last year that defined the Asian power as a “partner, competitor and systemic rival ,” calling on Germany to reduce its dependency on Chinese goods.

Germany’s economy shrank last year, and its weaknesses have exposed a reliance on China for growth. Energy prices have risen because of the war in Ukraine, which has been facilitated by Beijing’s support for the Kremlin. German companies have pushed for more access to China and complained that they face unfair competition .

The chancellor visited German companies with extensive investments in China and met with trade representatives and officials in the sprawling industrial metropolis of Chongqing in China’s southwest and in Shanghai and Beijing.

At a talk with a group of students in Shanghai on Monday, Mr. Scholz fielded a question from a student who planned to study in Germany this year, who said he was “really worried” because the country had partially legalized cannabis. “When you study in Berlin, you can run around the whole time and never meet anyone who does that,” the chancellor assured him.

But he also used the platform to push more serious messages about trade. “Competition must be fair,” Mr. Scholz told the students. “We want a level playing field,” he said.

Mr. Scholz’s trip was an example of the difficult dance that Germany is trying to do: maintaining economic ties with China while managing U.S. pressure to align itself more closely with Washington against Beijing.

In his meetings, Mr. Scholz highlighted Germany’s commitment to doing business with China, but he also warned that Beijing had to curb the flood of Chinese goods into Europe. At the same time, he expressed reservations about the European Union’s investigations into China’s use of subsidies for green technology industries, saying that any discussion about trade must be based on fairness.

“This must be done from a position of self-confident competitiveness and not from protectionist motives,” Mr. Scholz told reporters on Monday.

China’s manufacturing push in green sectors like electric cars and solar panels has touched off trade disputes with Europe and the United States, where such industries have also received government support. But with 5,000 German companies active in the Chinese market, Germany stands to lose more than many of its European partners would if Beijing were to retaliate against the European Union.

“If the E.U. goes too hard against China, we could expect countermeasures and this would be a catastrophe for us,” said Maximilian Butek, the executive director of the German Chamber of Commerce in China.

“For us it’s extremely important that the Chinese market remains open,” he said.

In his meeting with Mr. Xi, Mr. Scholz indicated that Russia’s war on Ukraine and its arms buildup were high on his agenda. “They directly affect our core interests. Indirectly, they damage the entire international order,” he said in opening remarks at the meeting, a transcript of which was provided by Mr. Scholz’s office.

Despite pressing the issue with Mr. Xi, he did not appear to win the commitment that he had sought from the Chinese leader to take part in an international conference for Ukraine planned in June. Germany had hoped that China could use its influence over Russia to help work toward a peace agreement.

Germany would also like China stop selling goods to Russia that have potential uses on the battlefield, and Mr. Scholz told reporters that he had brought up the issue in his meeting. “The point has been made,” he said. “There can be no misunderstanding about how we see things.”

China is hoping to drive a wedge between Europe and the United States by courting leaders such as Mr. Scholz. State media reports depicted his visit as demonstrating the strength of China’s relations with Europe, playing up its economic ties with Germany.

In his opening remarks to Mr. Scholz, Mr. Xi said cooperation between China and Germany, which have the second- and third-largest economies, was beneficial to the world, a remark that could be read as directed at those who have urged Berlin to distance itself from Beijing.

“The two countries should view and develop bilateral relations from a long-term and strategic perspective and work together to inject more stability and certainty into the world,” Mr. Xi told Mr. Scholz, emphasizing the importance of seeking “common ground.”

Beijing is sure to welcome the message that German businesses are committed to China. The Asian giant is trying to court foreign investment to reinvigorate its economy, which has faltered because of a housing slowdown. Some Western businesses and investors have also been rattled by Mr. Xi’s emphasis on national security, which they regard as making it riskier to operate in the country.

From China’s perspective, Germany may be its best hope of delaying or watering down any trade restrictions from Europe, said Noah Barkin, a senior adviser in the China practice at the Rhodium Group, a research firm.

German carmakers have invested billions of dollars in China, and much of their revenue comes from there. Many worry that if the European Commission imposes higher tariffs on Chinese exports, and Beijing retaliates, German businesses will suffer most.

Chinese officials “know that German companies are heavily invested and they use that politically to influence political decision making in Berlin,” Mr. Barkin said.

Germany’s biggest companies, including BMW, Mercedes-Benz and BASF, have large operations in China and strong, effective lobbies in Berlin, Mr. Barkin added. Executives from those companies, along with several others, traveled with Mr. Scholz to China.

“The supply chain in China is stuffed with German goods,” said Joerg Wuttke, a former president of the E.U. Chamber of Commerce in China. “If China has a price war with Germany, then no one will make money anymore.”

Mr. Scholz also brought along the German ministers for agriculture, the environment and transportation, officials who experts said would be particularly interested in working with China.

“You set an agenda with these three ministers, the tonality is overall a cooperative one, these are areas that we want to work on,” said Janka Oertel, director of the Asia Program at the European Council on Foreign Relations.

Chinese officials, for their part, have brushed off the European accusations of unfair trading practices, calling them groundless and an act of “ typical protectionism .” They have hinted that they could retaliate for any actions taken by the European Union, saying that China was “strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposes” its investigations.

In an interview with the German newspaper Handelsblatt, Wu Ken, China’s ambassador to Germany, said the competitive edge of Chinese electric vehicles “relies on innovation, not subsidies.”

“The challenge faced by developed countries lies more in the fact that Chinese companies are more efficient,” the ambassador said.

Vivian Wang contributed reporting from Beijing and Zixu Wang from Hong Kong.

Alexandra Stevenson is the Shanghai bureau chief for The Times, reporting on China’s economy and society. More about Alexandra Stevenson

Melissa Eddy is based in Berlin and reports on Germany’s politics, businesses and its economy. More about Melissa Eddy

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Yale Day of Service: CT, New Haven - Mandy Schwartz Bone Marrow Drive

Join student athletes and members of the Yale community by helping to sign up as marrow donors during this 15th annual bone marrow donor drive,

Yale holds its annual marrow donor registration drive in memory of Yale women's ice hockey player Mandy Schwartz.

Individuals looking to volunteer can contact Coach Larry Ciotti to sign up for a 1-hour shift between 10am - 5pm. Roles primarily include working at the tables and recruiting passersby to join the registry.

All members of the community are invited to join the marrow registry.

Here is how you can help save a life by swabbing your cheek:

• Join the NMDP Registry SM at Beinecke Plaza Wednesday Apr. 17 OR
• Join the NMDP Registry SM by going to   https://join.nmdp.org/YaleSaves OR
• Join the NMDP Registry SM by texting YaleSaves to 61474

Contact: Coach Ciotti

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• International

Hearings on Trump's criminal cases in New York and Georgia

By Kara Scannell , Lauren del Valle , Jeremy Herb , Zachary Cohen , Jason Morris, Nick Valencia , Kristina Sgueglia, Dan Berman , Tori B. Powell and Matt Meyer , CNN

Here are key takeaways from Fani Willis' stunning testimony

From CNN's Marshall Cohen, Devan Cole, Holmes Lybrand and Katelyn Polantz

The Georgia election subversion case against  Donald Trump and 14 of his allies took a stunning turn Thursday when two top prosecutors testified under oath about their romantic relationship at a hearing triggered by allegations of self-dealing that have the potential to derail the entire effort.

The all-day hearing escalated steadily throughout the day, culminating with Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis taking the witness stand for a combative brawl with defense attorneys that drew several rebukes from the judge.

These are key takeaways:

• Willis' defiant afternoon: Things quickly went off the rails. Willis didn’t act much like a traditional witness on the stand and was more like a prosecutor, arguing with the defense attorneys, raising objections, making legal arguments and even having exchanges with Judge Scott McAfee . She even raised her voice at one point. This led to a few rebukes from McAfee. Willis repeatedly accused some of the defense attorneys of peddling lies – before and after the judge’s admonishment.
• Willis says she's not on trial: Willis seized several opportunities to defend herself. “You think I’m on trial,” Willis said, in her sharpest pushback of the day. “These people are on trial for trying to steal an election in 2020,” she added, pointing toward the table of attorneys representing defendants in the criminal case. “I’m not on trial, no matter how hard you try to put me on trial.” She later slammed the defense attorneys, calling them “confused” and “intrusive.”
• When did the relationship start? On the stand, prosecutor Nathan Wade stuck to his earlier claim – in a sworn affidavit submitted to the court – that his romantic relationship with Willis began in early 2022 and that they split travel and vacation expenses. But Robin Bryant-Yeartie, a former friend of Willis and Fulton County employee, contradicted that claim , testifying that she had “no doubt” that the Willis-Wade affair began in late 2019. Notably, that would be before Willis hired Wade to lead the Trump probe in late 2021.
• Wade and Willis describe using cash for reimbursements: Wade and Willis have offered a simple explanation for why there’s essentially no paper trail to back up his claims they split expenses: Willis used cash .
• When did the relationship end? There was also a dispute over when the relationship ended, and whether it had any impact on the decision to seek the massive RICO indictment against Trump and others last August. Both said the relationship ended in summer 2023. Willis implied that the physical component ended earlier in the summer, but that the two had a “tough conversation” that fully ended things afterward.
• Huge distraction from Trump's charges: Nothing that happened Thursday undercut the factual allegations against Trump, Rudy Giuliani, Mark Meadows, or the other GOP allies who are accused of trying to overturn the 2020 election. But the hearing shifted the conversation away from those allegation and away from Trump’s legal woes for now.

Trump reacts to Willis' testimony in Georgia

From CNN's Kate Sullivan

Former President Donald Trump on Thursday reacted to c and her lead prosecutor on the 2020 election case, Nathan Wade.

“FANI NEVER PAID CASH. SHE GOT FREE TRIPS AND OTHER THINGS FROM HER LOVER, WITH THE EXORBITANT AMOUNTS OF MONEY SHE AUTHORIZED TO BE PAID TO HIM. A GIANT SCAM. WITCH HUNT!!!”  Trump posted  on Truth Social. 

Wade and Willis pushed back against allegations from the defense that Willis was essentially getting kickbacks from Wade in the form of vacations. They said they split expenses and that Willis reimbursed Wade in cash for certain things.

Georgia judge says no ruling will be issued tomorrow in case over whether to dismiss Willis

From CNN’s Holmes Lybrand

Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee said he would not issue any rulings Friday after the evidentiary hearing on efforts to disqualify District Attorney Fani Willis from the Georgia election subversion case. 

“I’m not ruling on any of this tomorrow,” McAfee said in closing the hearing Thursday. “This is something that’s going to be taken under advisement on all aspects.”  

McAfee also raised the possibility of scheduling final arguments from the parties at a later date. 

“My goal, my hope is perhaps we can just close the evidence tomorrow, and we can take it from there,” McAfee said.

Willis woke up "ready to testify," bishop who prayed with her before court says

From CNN's Nick Valencia and Devon Sayers

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis woke up Thursday morning "ready to testify," according to the African Methodist Episcopal bishop who says he prayed with her before today’s hearing.

Bishop Reginald Jackson told CNN he met with Willis earlier this morning before court began to "offer her words of encouragement," and they prayed together.

"She seemed comfortable. She seemed eager to address," Jackson said.  "I had the feeling this morning that she was ready for this. It's been going on for over a month, these efforts to destroy her reputation,” he added. “She wanted to meet it head on.” 

When the bishop spoke to Willis this morning before court, he said he told Willis "to keep praying and that the people have her back. I really believe they do."

Hearing ends for the day and Willis will continue testimony Friday 

From CNN's Holmes Lybrand and Dan Berman

The first day of an evidentiary hearing over whether to dismiss Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis from the Georgia election subversion case has concluded after Willis and her top prosecutor, Nathan Wade, testified over their relationships and payments they made during vacations together.

The district attorney's testimony will continue Friday at 9 a.m. ET, with Willis starting with under cross examination from District Attorney lawyer Anna Cross.

Defense attorney Ashleigh Merchant, who is leading the removal effort, said she plans to call two more witnesses after that.  

Cross also said she had three to four witnesses to call tomorrow, which she estimated would take four to five hours.

Willis: "I'm not on trial, no matter how hard you try to put me on trial"

From CNN's Devan Cole

Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis pushed back forcefully on Thursday as she engaged in a tense back and forth with a defense attorney seeking to disqualify her from the 2020 election interference case she’s brought against Donald Trump and others.

“You've been intrusive into people's personal lives. You're confused,” she told Ashleigh Merchant, an attorney for defendant Mike Roman.

“You think I'm on trial. These people are on trial for trying to steal an election in 2020,” she added, pointing toward the table of attorneys representing defendants in the criminal case.

Willis says Wade made sexist remarks during relationship

From CNN’s Devan Cole and Marshall Cohen

In an extraordinary moment in court Thursday, Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis testified about sexist behavior from Nathan Wade, the top prosecutor on the election interference case with whom she once had a romantic relationship.

“It's interesting that we're here about this money. Mr. Wade is used to women that, as he told me one time: 'The only thing a woman can do for him is make him a sandwich,'” she testified as she faced tough questioning from defense attorney Steve Sadow, who represents Donald Trump, about whether their romantic relationship ended last summer because of the forthcoming indictment against the former president and his allies. 

“We would have brutal arguments about the fact that I am your equal," she continued. "I don't need anything from a man — a man is not a plan. A man is a companion. And so there was tension always in our relationship, which is why I would give him his money back. I don't need anybody to foot my bills. The only man who's ever foot my bills completely is my daddy.” 

The defense attorneys have zeroed in on the timing of when the Willis-Wade relationship ended because it's critical to their self-dealing allegations against Willis.

In court filings, defendant Mike Roman's team argued that Willis would be incentivized to bring an indictment because it would prolong the case, and keep the money flowing to Wade. And, according to their theory, back to her as well, through vacations and other gifts.

Willis said on the stand that their break-up had “absolutely nothing” to do with the indictment.

Fulton County judge admonishes parties to remain professional

Fulton County Judge Scott McAfee admonished parties in court on Thursday after heated exchanges between District Attorney Fani Willis and the defense attorney trying to get her removed from the Georgia election subversion case. 

“We all know what professionalism looks like,” McAfee said. “We won’t talk over each other. And from there, we’ll get through this.”

The judge took a brief break during Willis’ testimony after she raised her voice in court, holding up several motions filed by defense attorney Ashleigh Merchant and declaring: “It is a lie.” 

Merchant was asking if the top prosecutor she hired to investigate Trump had ever visited Willis “at the place you lay your head?”

“So let’s be clear because you’ve lied in this,” Willis said, pointing to copies she held of the filings. Willis, continuing to point at the copies, added, “right here, I think you lied right here.”

Willis details trips she took with top prosecutor in Trump case

District Attorney Fani Willis detailed vacations and trips she took with prosecutor Nathan Wade, who she hired to investigate Donald Trump and others for election interference in Georgia, saying she would pay cash for everything.

“When I travel I always pay cash,” Willis said of the trips with Wade, saying that she paid Wade back for certain travel and excursions during the trips.

Willis has been accused of financially benefitting from hiring Wade, who defense attorneys say paid for vacations for the two. The vacations, according to Willis, included trips to Aruba, the Bahamas Belize as well as Napa Valley where they attended wine tastings.

“He likes wine, I don’t really like wine to be honest with you,” Willis said. “I like Grey Goose.” 

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What happened Thursday and Friday at the 2024 Masters

Day two at the Masters

It was a windy, gusty Friday at Augusta National for the second round of the Masters.

It's a three-way tie atop the leaderboard heading into the weekend with Scottie Scheffler, Bryson DeChambeau and Max Homa all at 6-under-par.

DeChambeau, who was the 18-hole leader, shot a second-round 73. He is searching for his second major championship this weekend.

Scheffler shot even par in his second round. The 2022 Masters champion is also searching for his second major after victories at the Arnold Palmer Invitational and the Players Championship.

Then there's Homa, who continued his brilliant play after his first round Thursday was suspended due to darkness. After playing 23 holes Friday, Homa shot a second-round 71, putting himself in contention to win his first major.

Tiger Woods shot a second-round 72 and made a record 24th cut at the Masters. Woods also played 23 holes on Friday after completing his first round in the morning.

Follow live coverage of the third round here.

⛳ Follow The Athletic 's golf coverage

Leaderboard:

T1: Scheffler -6 (72)

T1: Homa -6 (71)

T1: DeChambeau -6 (73)

4: Højgaard -4 (73)

T5: Davis -3 (72)

T5: Morikawa -3 (70)

T24. Woods +1 (72)

Third-round tee times

Third-round tee times for the Masters are out.

Tiger Woods is teeing off at 12:45 p.m. ET with Tyrrell Hatton.

Below are the final Saturday groupings:

2:05 p.m. ET: Cameron Young/Tommy Fleetwood

2:15 p.m. ET: Ludvig Åberg/Matthieu Pavon

2:25 p.m. ET: Cameron Davis/Collin Morikawa

2:35 p.m. ET: Scottie Scheffler/Nicolai Højgaard

2:45 p.m. ET: Max Homa/Bryson DeChambeau

Read the full Saturday tee times here .

Finally, here's the link for our live coverage of the third round .

See you there.

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How Neal Shipley claimed Masters low amateur honors: ‘A little bit of grit’

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Neal Shipley wasn’t raised in a golf family. But he did grow up with a family that loved golf.

The Sunday afternoon of the 2004 PGA Championship was all it took for the Ohio State graduate student — the only amateur to make the cut at this week’s Masters — to fish his dad’s neglected golf clubs out of a closet and give this humbling game a lifelong shot.

“Me and my dad were on our couch,” Shipley said on Friday after finishing 36 holes at Augusta National in 3-over and making the cut by three shots. “And Vijay Singh won. The next day I took my dad’s golf clubs, which were dusty and probably never used, and started swinging around. I decided to get my own little set, and it took off from there.”

Shipley wasn’t just hooked, he was adamant. As an elementary schooler, he told anyone in his hometown of Mt. Lebanon, Penn. that he intended to become a professional golfer. In the second grade, he took his bag to school for “show and tell.” Shipley’s class ventured outdoors at recess to watch him launch drivers into the schoolyard. He was a regular at his local junior league. Shipley’s family eventually decided to join St. Clair Country Club, so he could properly hone his craft.

“We joined a country club so that he’d have a place to play,” says his father, also named Neal Shipley, “But we’re not country club people.”

Twenty years later, Shipley will play the weekend at the 88th Masters at a firm and fast Augusta National after being invited as the 2023 U.S. Amateur runner-up. He’s tied for 30th, hanging right in there with legends of the game, including 61-year-old Singh, who sits at 4-over, one stroke behind the 23-year-old on the leaderboard through 36 holes.

Round of the day: Ludvig Åberg

(Photo: David Cannon / Getty Images)

Ludvig Åberg shot the round of the day Friday with a second-round 69.

The last player to have the round of the day at the Masters — no ties — in his Masters Tournament debut was Smylie Kaufman in 2016 (69 in round three).

History of world No. 1 holding 36-hole lead at Masters

Since the OWGR began in 1986, this will be the fourth time the reigning No. 1 has held the 36-hole lead at the Masters.

1996 Greg Norman — led by four (finished 2nd)

2020 Dustin Johnson — co-led (won)

2022 Scottie Scheffler — led by five (won)

2024 Scottie Scheffler — co-leader

A challenging scoring day at Augusta

Today (75.08) was the highest field scoring average in round two of The Masters since 2007, and just the fourth time in the last 30 years the field averaged higher than 75 in the second round.

Who missed the cut?

The wind was punishing Friday, seemingly eliminating stars in a matter of seconds with one blowup hole being enough to derail a round. Double bogey became a common score to see, like reigning Open Champion Brian Harman (+9) finishing his first round Friday morning by going triple-bogey, double-bogey, double-bogey.

Maybe the most painful missed cut was Justin Thomas. The two-time major winner was even par with four holes to go, but he double-bogeyed 15 and 16, bogeyed 17 and double-bogeyed 18 to miss the cut by losing seven shots in four holes.

Viktor Hovland was one of the best players in the world six months ago, but his fascinating, strange struggles continue as Hovland went from 4-under early Thursday to shooting an 81 in round two to drop to 8-over and miss out on the weekend.

Others to miss the cut include three-time major winner Jordan Spieth (+9), Wyndham Clark (+7), Sam Burns (+9) and Dustin Johnson (+13).

Masters Round 2 takeaways: Scheffler, DeChambeau, Homa share 36-hole lead

LIV has 8 make the cut

DeChambeau is certainly doing most of the heavy lifting for the LIV field as he sits at 6-under for the co-lead, but LIV brought 13 golfers to the Masters and eight made the cut. It might not be looking like the same success as three golfers finishing top four last year, yet multiple players are still in the mix.

DataGolf gives DeChambeau a 23 percent chance of winning the Masters, while Cam Smith sits at 1-under par at the halfway point. Smith is one of the better players at Augusta, with four top-10s here in the last five years. Patrick Reed, another Masters expert who won the green jacket in 2018, is T16 at even par.

Other LIV golfers to make the cut include Brooks Koepka (+2), Tyrell Hatton (+2), Joaquin Niemann (+4), Phil Mickelson (+4) and Jon Rahm (+5). Rahm, the defending Masters champ, shot 76 in round two to take himself out of contention but still made the cut. Meanwhile, 2020 Masters champ Dustin Johnson missed out at 13-over.

DeChambeau in lead with new custom-made irons

One of the stories of the tournament has been not just DeChambeau’s impressive play — where he co-leads at 6-under par — but also his fascinating switch to a new set of custom-made, 3D-printed irons that were only approved by the USGA this week.

The approval was down to the wire, with DeChambeau receiving feedback last week they’d be non-conforming due to too sharp of groove edges. He didn’t receive full approval of the set made by a company called Avoda until early Tuesday morning. Despite the Masters being 48 hours away, he switched to them immediately and felt comfortable by the end of Wednesday. Thursday, he shot a first-round 65 for the solo lead.

“They have just got a different curvature on the face than other equipment,” Dechambeau explained. “Most equipment is flat. These have a different curvature on the face that allows me to have my mis-hits to go a little straighter sometimes.”

DeChambeau has had the idea for these irons since 2020, and when asked if he couldn’t find a manufacturer to make them he only said: “I’m not going to speak much more on that but I’ve had this idea for a long, long time.”

The set is one of a kind, with DeChambeu confirming there is no backup set. He said they’re holding up well, but if anything did happen to them he would switch back to his Ping i330s that he’s been using since July. It’s worth noting that since July, DeChambeau has had two LIV wins and four straight top-10s.

Scheffler shoots second-round 72

(Photo: Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

After a tricky day at Augusta National, Scottie Scheffler is atop the leaderboard at the Masters.

He shot a second-round 72 with three birdies and three bogeys.

Scheffler is in a three-way tie atop the leaderboard with Bryson DeChambeau and Max Homa.

JT misses the cut

Justin Thomas will once again miss the cut at the Masters due to an abysmal back nine. The two-time major champion finished double-double-bogey-double to shoot a back nine 42, carding a 7-over 79 for his second round. Thomas suffered a very similar fate last year at Augusta National, when he came in with four bogeys and a double to miss the weekend, playing in a torrential downpour.

While many big names struggled on Friday afternoon on a firm, fast and brutally windy Augusta, Thomas's implosion feels particularly notable, especially in the wake of his recent split with his longtime caddie Jim "Bones" Mackay.

Thomas missed the cut in three of the four majors last season and hoped 2024 would serve as a sort of blank slate. So far, his PGA Tour results have shown signs of hope (he has four top-12s this season) but is Thomas still in the midst of his major championship slump?

Tiger compared to the field average

(Photo: Ben Jared/PGA TOUR via Getty Images)

Tiger Woods beat the field average in each of the first two rounds. Today was the 80th time in his Masters career he's shot a score better than the field that day.

Highest percentage of rounds beating field in Masters history (min. 30 rounds):

Lloyd Mangrum, 81.7 percent

Tiger Woods, 81.6 percent

Ben Hogan, 79.6 percent

Hovland falls to 8-over-par

Viktor Hovland is now 8-over but he's still having a very good week because all golf clothing discourse is now solely about Jason Day/Malbon.

Max Homa is finally having his Masters breakthrough

AUGUSTA, Ga. — Max Homa walked up to the beginning of the most famous three holes in golf, alone, unconcerned with the legend behind him. Unconcerned with the surroundings or the stage.

Back on the 10th green, Tiger Woods and Jason Day took their time reading putts and finishing the hole. But Homa had his par. He had his co-lead at the Masters. So for a full two minutes, Homa walked ahead, up the hill to the start of Amen Corner.

This time was going to be different. This time, he was going to worry about himself.

He thought back to his journal scribblings from Thursday night, a habit he’s been focusing on the past year. He writes what he’s grateful for and mental goals for the day. And on Thursday night he wrote a simple mantra.

However good I am is however good I am.

Read more about Homa's second-round performance here .

Rahm back-to-back birdies

Jon Rahm, the reigning Masters champion, had a double bogey on the 14th hole.

That brought him to 6-over, below the cut line.

How did Rahm respond?

With back-to-back birdies on 15 and 16. His birdie on 16 was well below the hole on the green.

Rahm is 4-over-par and currently inside the cut line. Can he hang on to make the weekend?

Zach Johnson responds to apparent profanity toward patrons: 'That's laughable'

Zach Johnson responded to his apparent profanity toward patrons on the par-3 12th.

"That I swore at the patrons? That's laughable," Johnson said. "That's completely laughable. I can't hear the patrons, number one. Number two, I just made a triple bogey on the 12th hole that evidently is going to make me miss the cut, which at the time I knew was pretty sensitive in the sense that I needed to keep making pars.

"If I've said anything, which I'm not going to deny, especially if it's on camera, one, I apologize, and two, it was fully directed towards myself entirely because I can't hear anything behind me. Does that make sense?"

Scheffler bogeys 13 after finding water

Scottie Scheffler entered the 13th hole with a one-shot lead at the Masters. He left it in a three-way tie with Max Homa and Bryson DeChambeau after putting an aggressive second shot into Rae's Creek. His nice chip from the drop gave him a chance to save par, but he just barely missed the putt to ultimately bogey the hole. Some might call it slight karma after Scheffler caught a lucky break on 13 yesterday.

He hit a similar approach that fell short in round one but that time it miraculously stayed up on the hill above the creek. He was able to chip up and still birdie the hole. Now, he enters the final five holes at even par for the round.

Tyrrell Hatton criticizes pace of play

(Photo: Warren Little/Getty Images)

Englishman Tyrell Hatton criticized the pace of play in the group in front of him at the Masters on Friday, a group that included LIV teammate Patrick Reed in addition to Sungjae Im and Kurt Kitayama.

"Yeah, the lads in front have been so slow," Hatton said. "It's pretty poor from the officials that it took 32 holes to put them on the clock. Yesterday they'd lost a hole and a half, and then they weren't any better even this morning, and then for the second round they were just brutal. Fine for them; they're not waiting on any shot that they hit. But for us, we stood in the fairway, we stood on the tee. It was really hard to get a rhythm, so it was disappointing that it took 32 holes for an official to go, oh, we've put the group in front on the clock."

Hatton said he said something to a rules official on the eighth hole when his group had to wait to hit on 8 because the group ahead was still putting on the green. He said he knew that group was the culprit because the group two ahead was already teeing off on the 10th hole.

"It's a small field. It's not hard to really keep up with the group in front. I understand if you've had a tough hole, but when it's just like every hole, then it's a bit more frustrating."

DeChambeau shoots 73

(Photo: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

Bryson DeChambeau shoots a second-round 73.

An up and down back nine for DeChambeau who recorded three bogeys and two birdies.

He also had the content moment of the day when he carried a direction sign with his bare hand.

DeChambeau is currently at 6-under-par and tied with Max Homa.

Scottie Scheffler is the solo leader at 7-under-par.

Howling winds at Augusta

The winds are howling at Augusta National.

Gary Woodland's ball at the par-3 16th moved down the green from its original spot.

Scottie Scheffler, Rory McIlroy and Xander Schauffele had an extra wait at the par-4 11th.

A difficult conclusion to this second round ahead.