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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?

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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 18 best weekend getaways from new york city.

From picturesque beaches to dreamy mountain retreats, these weekend getaways are the perfect change of scenery.

18 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

Getty Images

Fire Island, a weekend getaway about a three-hour drive east of Manhattan, offers sailing, clamming, bird-watching and more.

New York City has been described in many ways, but "relaxing" isn't typically one of them. When you need a break from the hustle and bustle, relieve some stress by packing a bag and getting out of the city for a few days.

To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from New York City. Whether you're planning a romantic weekend trip , a fun-filled family escape or some time with friends , these getaways have everything you need for a memorable trip.

Best Weekend Getaways From New York City

About two hours or less:

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Beacon, new york, philadelphia, north fork, new york.

About three hours or less:

Fire Island, New York

The hamptons, new york, the catskills, new york, cape may, new jersey, mystic, connecticut.

About four hours or less:

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Shelter island, new york, newport, rhode island, lake george, new york.

About five hours or less:

Saranac Lake, New York

Washington, d.c., the finger lakes, new york.

A quick flight:

Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario

Two hours or less.

This stunning mountain range in northeastern Pennsylvania (about 100 miles northwest of New York City) has appealed to travelers for generations. Perfect for both families and couples, the Poconos offer everything from whitewater rafting tours to fascinating museums and manicured golf courses. If the kids are in tow, let them burn off their excess energy at a water park . Meanwhile, thrill-seekers will be right at home at one of the region's adventure parks, which feature aerial obstacle courses and an all-season tubing hill, and nature lovers will enjoy ample hiking and horseback riding opportunities. Plus, with several romantic restaurants and resorts , the Poconos area has distinguished itself as a premier honeymoon destination for lovebirds. Book your stay at The Lodge at Woodloch for a wellness-centered vacation complete with yoga and art classes, mindfulness experiences, and an adults-only spa.

[See more of the Poconos: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Located in New York's Hudson Valley, around 60 miles north of Manhattan, Beacon has transformed in the past two decades from a sleepy industrial town to a thriving arts community, making it the getaway of choice for relaxation-seeking city dwellers. Here, visitors can spend weekends (or a daytrip) perusing vintage shops and flea markets, kayaking along the Hudson River, and exploring Beacon's scenic hiking trails.

The first stop on your itinerary should be Dia Beacon, a renowned contemporary art museum housed in a former Nabisco box-printing factory. One of the largest contemporary art galleries in the country, Dia's robust collection of work spans from the 1960s to the present. From here, take a stroll down Main Street. Lined with doughnut shops, cafes and art galleries, Beacon's main drag features hidden gems such as Hudson Beach Glass and the Towne Crier Cafe, a popular restaurant and live music venue. While there is plenty to do and see in Beacon, you can't leave without touring the ruins of Bannerman Castle. Situated on Pollepel Island and reachable by boat from late April to October, this Scottish-style castle was once a storage site for surplus military equipment and ammunition.

Not only is this quiet refuge less than two hours by car from Manhattan, but travelers can easily hop on the train to reach this destination as well: Take the Metro-North Railroad from New York City to Beacon for less than $50 round trip. There are also plenty of accommodation options to choose from, ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to unique digs like The Roundhouse, an abandoned factory complex-turned-stylish boutique hotel.

Ditch the Big Apple and head about 95 miles southwest to the City of Brotherly Love. Known best for being the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence, Philadelphia is an ideal weekend getaway for families and history buffs. Brush up on your founding fathers trivia on a walking tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center before strolling through Rittenhouse Square Park. From there, set your sights on the city's must-see museums: The Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Barnes Foundation and The Franklin Institute are all good places to explore.

Philadelphia is also notorious for its substantial culinary prowess . Sure, the cheesesteaks are a must-try – stop in a shop like Dalessandro's Steaks & Hoagies to see for yourself what all the hype is about – but this city has a diverse food scene. If you have time to spare, check out the lengthy list of vendors in Reading Terminal Market, where you can sample everything from Dutch to Thai to Cajun fare.

With limited parking available in the city, it's best to stick with public transportation. New York City travelers can ride the Amtrak from Moynihan Train Hall to the William H. Gray III 30th Street Station in less than two hours. Once here, opt for lodging in Center City, where you'll find an array of coffee shops, posh restaurants and historic sites within walking distance of your hotel . Travelers particularly favor The Rittenhouse for its elegant accommodations and first-rate service.

[See more of Philadelphia: Best Things to Do ]

Long Island's northeastern peninsula, known as the North Fork, fits the bill for your next weekend trip if you like tranquil seaside villages and laid-back itineraries. Located about 80 miles east of Manhattan and directly north of the illustrious Hamptons, this quiet refuge is characterized by its wineries, beaches and friendly atmosphere. Not only is this short jaunt from the city an excellent place for a couples trips in New York state , but families will also find a plethora of exciting activities here as well.

To get here, catch the Long Island Rail Road commuter train from Penn Station to Greenport. When you arrive, make a beeline for the beach – Orient Beach State Park occupies a prime section of real estate along Gardiner's Bay and is a perfect place for kayaking, swimming and sunbathing. Meanwhile, wine aficionados can spend the afternoon at Macari Vineyards or Sparkling Pointe Vineyards and Winery while families hit up the Splish Splash water park. At the end of the day, unwind at the lovely Harborfront Inn at Greenport.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island .]

Three hours or less

This secluded barrier island off the southern shore of Long Island is about 65 miles east of Manhattan and a popular getaway for New Yorkers – for good reason. Travelers will find an unspoiled island free of high-rise buildings and the vexing sounds of traffic, all within a few hours of the city. In fact, Fire Island is a car-free environment, making it the ideal choice for city dwellers in need of a short weekend escape. Here, visitors can enjoy activities like sailing, biking, clamming and bird-watching. Just keep in mind that Memorial Day to Labor Day is considered the busy season, so schedule your vacation outside of these dates if you want to avoid crowds.

Because you can't drive onto the island, the best way to get here is by taking the Long Island Rail Road to Sayville, Patchogue or Bayshore. These destinations have marinas that offer ferry service to and from Fire Island for a fee. When it comes to lodging, Fire Island's options are mostly small inns and hotels, but they fill up quickly, so book in advance to ensure you'll have accommodations. If you'd rather rough it, campgrounds are available within the Otis Pike Fire Island High Dune Wilderness, at Smith Point County Park and at Watch Hill. Keep in mind, backcountry camping permits and daily campsite fees (typically starting at $25 per day) may be required for select areas.

Arriving in the Hamptons, it's easy to see why this seaside destination on eastern Long Island's South Fork has established such a name for itself. White sand beaches, untouched nature preserves and plenty of bars serving up frozen cocktails are just a few of the alluring images that may come to mind when you imagine an escape to the Hamptons. Luckily for New Yorkers, this little slice of heaven sits less than 100 miles east of Manhattan, making it easily accessible for weekend getaways and daytrips .

Lay down your towel on East Hampton's Main Beach or Southampton's Coopers Beach, then cast a fishing line from the shore of Montauk Point State Park. For a dose of culture, check out the Hamptons' illustrious art scene: The Parrish Art Museum and the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center (open seasonally) are two of the area's most prominent museums. When it's time to turn in for the night, save some coin by choosing a hotel in nearby Riverhead or by camping on the beach.

For nature lovers, this mountain range in southeastern New York is the perfect place to reconnect with the great outdoors. Home of the famous 1969 Woodstock music festival, the Catskills have been inspiring travelers for decades. Spend the weekend hiking the region's popular trails (the Kaaterskill Falls trail features the tallest waterfall in New York state), or get out on Alder Lake in a kayak. In winter, head here to see Hunter Mountain blanketed in snow and to take advantage of top-notch skiing and tubing opportunities.

In addition to outdoor activities such as hiking, fly-fishing, biking and zip lining, the Catskills are a haven for artists. Follow the Hudson River School Art Trail to witness firsthand the vistas that inspired artists like Thomas Cole. Meanwhile, music lovers and history buffs won't want to miss a visit to The Museum at Bethel Woods, a museum showcasing artifacts and stories from Woodstock. Before calling it a night at one of the region's fabulous hotels or resorts , stop by a microbrewery for a flight.

[Read:  The Top New York Ski Resorts .]

Those looking for a relaxing weekend should consider Cape May, a top romantic getaway destination in New Jersey . Located roughly 160 miles south of New York City, this enchanting East Coast town is beloved for its beautiful beaches, striking Victorian homes and laid-back atmosphere. After soaking up some rays at the beach (the Cove Beach is a traveler favorite), hit up the retailers at Washington Street Mall. Filled with small boutiques, ice cream shops and bookstores, this outdoor mall spans three blocks and is perfect for easygoing strolls.

Other can't-miss activities in Cape May include climbing the Cape May Lighthouse, watching the sun go down at Sunset Beach, embarking on a sightseeing cruise and taking a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate – Cape May's only Victorian-era house museum. Cape May offers a plethora of lodging options for weekend trips ranging from quaint B&Bs to hotels set in ornate Victorian mansions. Book a room in historic Congress Hall or The Southern Mansion for charming guest rooms and convenient amenities.

The quintessential New England town of Mystic is situated around 130 miles northeast of New York City and considered one of the top things to do in Connecticut . This seaside village has everything you'd want from a weekend getaway: museums, galleries, delicious eateries and historic landmarks. Head to Williams Beach Park for a quiet day by the water, then stroll through Mystic's historic downtown. Colonial-era sea captain's homes line the streets here, and there are countless places to dine and shop.

Families will also love the Mystic Aquarium for its educational exhibits and interactive habitats. Meanwhile, the Mystic Seaport Museum is a maritime museum that offers several activities for kids, including hands-on exhibits and a zoo garden. Just don't leave without snapping a photo of the iconic Mystic River Bascule Bridge, a 1922 drawbridge that connects the Groton and Stonington sides of Mystic. When you're ready to retire for the evening, Mystic Marriott Hotel & Spa receives rave reviews for its comfortable rooms and ample business amenities.

Four hours or less

This rural region in western Massachusetts (about 150 miles north of Manhattan) has all the makings of a fairytale getaway with plenty of things to do . Picturesque mountain ranges, winding roads and idyllic towns are synonymous with the Berkshires, making this destination the perfect place to escape the hubbub of New York City. Bring your partner along to enjoy a romantic weekend filled with antique shopping, museum tours and scenic car rides through the region's lush countryside.

For breathtaking mountain panoramas, strap on your hiking boots and head to the summit of Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. Meanwhile, culture hounds won't want to miss a chance to tour the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art and The Clark Art Institute. In summer, catch a dance performance at the prestigious Jacob's Pillow or listen to live music on the lawn of Tanglewood, an extravagant music venue and summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.

Accommodations in the Berkshires run the gamut from B&Bs to luxurious hotels and resorts. Many past travelers say Canyon Ranch Lenox , while pricey, is worth the splurge for its wellness-focused amenities and indulgent spa treatments.

Only accessible by ferry, this hidden oasis between New York's North Fork and South Fork is perfect for a quick weekend escape from the city. You won't find rowdy nightlife or luxurious accommodations here, but that only adds to its appeal. In fact, nearly a third of the island is made up of the Mashomack Preserve, a protected habitat with 11 miles of coastline and more than 2,350 acres of tidal creeks, freshwater marshes, fields and woodlands. The preserve is also a major hub for bird-watching: More than 200 species of birds call this area home, although it is specifically known for its large population of nesting osprey.

Elsewhere on the island, visitors can lounge on Wades Beach, a family-friendly stretch of sand featuring lifeguards and a comfort station, or enjoy water sports at Shell Beach. Shelter Island is a premier spot for kayaking: The seasonally open Kayak Shelter Island offers single and double kayaks, along with paddleboard rentals. While the island has golf courses, boutique shopping and courts for petanque (a French game similar to bocce ball), undoubtedly the best thing to do here is nothing at all.

To get here, start by taking the Long Island Rail Road commuter train to Greenport, then board the North Ferry to Shelter Island. Alternatively, you can get here by driving to Sag Harbor and then loading your car onto the South Ferry. For lodging, Shelter Island offers a handful of small hotels, vacation rentals and B&Bs.

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If sandy toes and lobster rolls are calling your name, look no further than Newport, Rhode Island – one of the best spots for a weekend getaway in New England . This port town, located on the southern tip of Aquidneck Island and about 180 miles northeast of New York, is famous for its miles of pristine shoreline, upscale boutiques and ornate Gilded Age mansions, which you can ogle on a trolley tour . It is also lauded as one of the world's premier sailing destinations.

While here, gain your sea legs aboard a boat tour of Newport Harbor, or get your steps in on part of the Cliff Walk, a scenic 3.5-mile pathway that runs along Newport's eastern shore. Then, engage in some well-deserved retail therapy along Thames Street, which is lined with a plethora of shops and restaurants. Of course, you can't leave without touring The Breakers, Newport's iconic Renaissance-style "summer cottage," which is one of the top things to do in Rhode Island . When it's time to bed down, check out one of Newport's many lavish accommodations, such as The Vanderbilt and The Chanler at Cliff Walk .

[See more of Newport: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Situated in New York's Adirondacks region, roughly 200 miles north of Manhattan, Lake George is filled with fun activities the whole family can enjoy. Sink your toes in the sand at Lake George Beach, also known as the Million Dollar Beach: a kid-friendly stretch of sand complete with lifeguards and concession stands. Then, work up a sweat hiking Prospect Mountain and Shelving Rock Falls. For more of a thrill, check out Lake George's parasailing, whitewater rafting and zip lining courses.

If you're simply looking to kick your feet up on your weekend getaway, rent a pontoon boat and spend the day floating around Lake George. The region is also home to restaurants, the Adirondack Winery outpost in Lake George and several museums, including The Hyde Collection and the Fort William Henry Museum. After an eventful day of lake activities, head back to your plush accommodations at The Sagamore Resort to unwind.

[See more of the Adirondacks: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

Five hours or less

This quiet village in upstate New York (around 300 miles north of New York City) is less crowded than the popular Lake Placid, making Saranac Lake an excellent choice for a weekend getaway from the city. Take advantage of this stunning lake by getting out on the water in a canoe or kayak, then get your heart pumping on the 3.7-mile Bloomingdale Bog Trail. For an extra dose of history, the Saranac Laboratory Museum showcases Saranac's interesting past as a tuberculosis treatment destination. Downtown, you'll also find a variety of shops, restaurants and art galleries to keep you occupied for hours, plus little ones will enjoy the Adirondack Carousel, which runs Friday through Sunday.

Saranac Lake is also a popular winter destination thanks to its plethora of outdoor sports (think: snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and ice fishing) and traditional winter activities such as the annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, which takes place every February. The event also features a fireworks display and multiple parades. When it comes to lodging, visitors will mostly find cozy cabins and B&Bs here, but a handful of luxury hotels are available as well. For the ultimate in comfort, book your stay at Hotel Saranac, a historic property with modern amenities.

Famous for its slew of historic landmarks, monuments and museums (many of which are free to enter), Washington, D.C., has long appealed to historians and politicos. However, there's more to the nation's capital than meets the eye. With more than 20 neighborhoods to explore and innumerable things to do , Washington is a treasure chest waiting to be unlocked. Find killer nightlife and impeccable dining in the Shaw and U Street area, upscale shopping in Georgetown, charming 19th-century row houses in Dupont Circle, and a bevy of historic attractions on Capitol Hill.

If you're only visiting for the weekend, expect an action-packed schedule. Start by hitting up one of the city's first-rate museums: The National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Gallery of Art are a few traveler favorites. Then, take a stroll along the Tidal Basin (you can also get out on the water by renting a paddleboat) or relax on the lawn of the National Mall. Here, you'll have easy access to attractions like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial and its Reflecting Pool, the White House, and the U.S. Capitol. Note, though, that while many of D.C.'s attractions are free, some museums may require timed-entry passes to be reserved ahead of time, so plan as far in advance as possible.

Located roughly 225 miles southwest of NYC, Washington is an easy drive by car or bus. However, the best way to get here is by train. Take Amtrak's high-speed Acela or Northeast Regional train to Union Station and shed up to 90 minutes off your travel time. Plus, because Washington frequently plays host to celebrities, politicians and business tycoons, there are plenty of top-notch accommodations to choose from once you arrive. For a luxurious stay, book a room at The Jefferson , a sophisticated property with European flair plus a restaurant and a cocktail bar on-site. An added bonus? The Jefferson is located only a mile away from the National Mall, so you'll be right where the action is.

[Read: The Best Washington, D.C., Tours .]

Bordering Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay, New England's largest city sits 215 miles northeast of New York City; travelers can opt to travel here by car, bus or train. Whether you're drawn here by the cobblestone streets, the historic landmarks or the city's strong baseball roots (a visit to Fenway Park for a game or behind-the-scenes tour can't be missed), Boston has all the ingredients you need for a memorable weekend getaway – just remember to pack your walking shoes .

After you've successfully trekked the 2.5-mile Freedom Trail (or hop-on, hop-off bus tour) to some of Boston's most famed attractions – including the Paul Revere House, Old North Church and Faneuil Hall Marketplace – find a shady spot to rest in Boston Common or the Boston Public Garden. For a dose of culture, check out the Museum of Fine Arts Boston and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which features landscaped gardens and an extensive collection of European, Asian and American art. When you've tired yourself out from a day of sightseeing, hang up your coat in one of Boston's premier hotels . Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston and the Boston Harbor Hotel at Rowes Wharf are two of the city's top properties, both offering a lengthy list of amenities and plush accommodations.

[Read:  The Top Boston Harbor Cruises .]

New York's Finger Lakes – a collection of 11 lakes that includes the popular shorelines of Seneca Lake, Skaneateles Lake and Cayuga Lake – are revered for their spectacular water sports opportunities, scenic state parks and top-notch wine. As one of the chief wine regions in the country and the largest wine-producing area in the state of New York, the Finger Lakes region has earned its reputation as a top destination for romantic weekend getaways.

For short stays in the Finger Lakes, following the Seneca Lake Wine Trail is the best way to see a lot of local wineries in a little amount of time. With nearly 30 wineries and several restaurants set along the route, the trail is perfect for leisurely car rides in the countryside (just be sure to assign a designated driver ahead of time). Opt for a refreshing riesling, the region's signature wine, or expand your palate on a tasting tour.

Meanwhile, nature lovers should head to Robert H. Treman State Park or Watkins Glen State Park for a chance to see breathtaking waterfalls. If you're looking for a small-town atmosphere with local shops and museums, you can't go wrong with Skaneateles Lake. Here, you'll also find a variety of charming B&Bs and inns like the Mirbeau Inn & Spa , a traveler favorite. Other top lodging options in the Finger Lakes region include the Inns of Aurora and The Statler Hotel at Cornell University , both of which offer easy access to Cayuga Lake.

A quick flight

If you're willing to hop on a short flight (or take a bus tour), you can enjoy a weekend marveling at one of the most beautiful and impressive natural wonders of the world: Niagara Falls. Niagara Falls is less than a two-hour flight from New York City – and, while this powerful waterfall is sure to take your breath away, it isn't the only reason to plan a weekend getaway to the area. With beautiful botanical gardens, wineries and casinos, this famous tourist town has everything you need for a fun-filled weekend away. Take advantage of both the American and Canadian sides of the Niagara River by bringing your passport with you.

For a classic Niagara Falls experience, don a poncho and board the Maid of the Mist boat tour. This famed attraction is one of the best ways to see the falls up close, but it's impossible to guarantee you won't get wet. If you'd rather view the falls from a drier and less crowded vantage point, head to the observation deck of the Skylon Tower. Thrill-seekers can also experience the falls on Journey Behind the Falls, which takes participants directly behind the thunderous waterfall, or on an exhilarating jet boat tour. When it's time to turn in, visitors on the American side of the falls can book their stay at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino , while Ontario-based guests spend a cozy night in the well-appointed Harbour House Hotel .

[See more of Niagara Falls: Best Things to Do | Hotels ]

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cheap Weekend Getaways in the U.S.
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Washington, D.C.
• The Top Things to Do in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont

Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , Vacation Ideas , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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Perfect Long Weekend Destinations Just Outside New York City

Whether you want culture, nature, fine dining, or classic R&R, these are our top destinations for a totally charming getaway.

Hudson, New York

Located two hours north of New York City on the Hudson River, Hudson is a one-of-a-kind city known for its galleries, shops, and restaurants, as well as street after street of architectural gems. As a center of creativity with a vibrant community of artists, Hudson is the perfect place for a weekend of discovery and inspiration.

Where to Stay

The Maker Hotel: A new hotel from Lev Glazman and Alina Roytberg, the co-founders of beauty brand Fresh , The Maker is an intimate 11-room property housed in three historical buildings in the heart of Hudson. Glazman and Roytberg have curated an antique-filled sanctuary with a bohemian sensibility fusing design from 19th-century Industrial, La Belle Époque, Art Deco, and Mid-Century periods. Each room is named after a creative archetype (The Architect, The Writer, The Gardener) and no two are the same. Expect a highly personal style of luxury and comfort and surprising touches like a Fragrance Library where guests can sample Glazman’s personal collection of scents collected from around the world, and complimentary full-size Fresh products in each room. Rooms starting at $350.

What to Eat

The Maker H otel's cafe is open for breakfast and lunch offering fresh pastries, viennoiseries, soups and salads in a room right out of Austria. The Restaurant is a grand glass-ceilinged conservatory serving seasonal, contemporary, and delightfully light American fare.

Backbar , renowned chef Zac Pelaccio ’s (Fatty Crab, Fish & Game) outdoor restaurant, offers a pan-Asian menu with an emphasis on dishes from Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam. Must haves include the Black Pepper Wings, the Dan Dan Noodles, and Sweet Potato Curry. Grab a beer, sit under one of the many covered tables, and you will feel transported to a sidewalk restaurant in Bangkok. Kitty’s , a cheerful new cafe from chef and food stylist Lauren Schaefer , serves excellent egg sandwiches, outrageous rotisserie chicken, and sweet treats such as Sticky Ginger Tea Cake and Chocolate Chip Buckwheat Cookies. A perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon macchiato pick-me-up.

Just 15 mins north of Hudson and situated on 300 acres in the town of Ghent, Art Omi is a sculpture and architecture park offering visitors the opportunity to experience a range of large-scale works in a singular outdoor environment. The fall foliage acts as a perfect backdrop for works from notable artists and architects such as Tony Cragg, Nari Ward, and Steven Holl.

Without a doubt one of the most beautiful buildings in America, Olana was the home of renowned Hudson River School painter Frederick Church. The villa, situated on top of a hill overlooking a wide swath of the river, is a unique blend of Victorian and Middle Eastern architectural motifs. The interiors of the main house look as they did in the 1890s with rooms filled with bronzes, paintings, sculptures and antique and artistic specimens collected by Church from all over the world. The 250-acre naturalistic landscape is considered one of the artist’s greatest works of art, and it exists today as one of the most intact artist-designed landscapes in the United States. A relatively easy hike to High Falls is the perfect way to experience the autumn splendor. In addition to the fiery foliage, you will be rewarded with views of two waterfalls and glimpses of the area’s many native birds.

Where to Shop

The eight block stretch of Warren Street is the heart of Hudson and home to antique dealers, galleries, shops, and restaurants. Standouts include Finch , an expertly curated collection of vintage and contemporary items for the home; Artsee , a chic optical boutique/art gallery carrying frames from international eyewear designers; Kasuri , an emporium for avant-garde fashion brands like Yohji Yamamoto, Comme des Garcons, and Rick Owens, and Talbott and Arding , purveyors of fine cheeses, charcuterie and other larder must-haves

The Berkshires

Long known for its cultural offerings, The Berkshires—the Massachusetts county that stretches from Williamstown in the north and Great Barrington in the south—shines brightest in the fall when its eponymous hills are ablaze with autumn color. Situated in between Boston and New York City, the Berkshires offers scenic landscapes, pastoral hikes, and an abundance of culture and art.

The Inn at Kenmore Hall is a stunning country inn in Richmond, Mass., situated on 20 acres of woodlands, orchards, and gardens, with spectacular views of the rolling, green Berkshire Hills. Owned and operated by J.Crew's former head of menswear, Frank Muytjens, and artist/entrepreneur, Scott Edward Cole, the 1792 building has been transformed into a luxurious and stylish oasis with wood burning fireplaces in each room and decoration that artfully blends modernity and antiquity. And in true bed and breakfast style, guests wake up to a scrumptious morning meal in a candlelit dining room with a roaring fire burning. Rooms starting at $450.

A stay at the Granville House , an intimate five-room inn within a historic 1825 house in Great Barrington, Mass., is like visiting your coolest friend’s country home. The innkeepers, Terry and Terri Coughlin, alumni of Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group, have created a deeply personal space with an eclectic mix of period antiques, mid-century modern furnishings, inspiring artwork, and thoughtful personal touches. Guests are treated to a relaxed kind of luxury including a jukebox and pool table in the parlor and rocking chairs on the large wraparound porch. And true to the inn’s commitment to being a good neighbor, Granville House is reinvesting a portion of proceeds to various organizations that support the special needs community in the Berkshire region. Rooms start at $200.

Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud has brought Café Boulud , his beloved Upper East Side institution, to Blantyre in Lenox, Mass. As one of the original 12 Gilded Age mansions in the Berkshires, this Relais and Châteaux property makes the perfect backdrop for the menu of autumnal French-inspired classics with a seasonal focus on ingredients from local farms, vegetable-driven creations, and Asian and Middle Eastern flavors. Mark Firth left Brooklyn, where he owned the legendary Diner and Marlow & Sons, for Great Barrington, Mass. to open The Prairie Whale , an excellent farm to table restaurant that takes full advantage of the region’s farmers, cheesemakers, and foragers. The extra crunchy fried chicken and the impossibly fluffy pancakes are both best in class. As are the Bloody Marys. The charming tapas bar Brava in Lenox offers a comprehensive menu of Spanish small plate classics such as Shrimp in Garlic Sauce, Patatas Bravas, and Grilled Lamb Chops in addition to excellent salads and hand-made pizzas. Proprietor and world-class oenophile, Whitney Asher, will happily guide you through the award-winning wine list of over 100 wines, 40 of which are available by the glass.

Located on Main Street in storybook Stockbridge, Mass., The Red Lion Inn has been welcoming guests since 1773. The iconic historic inn is quintessential New England and having a cocktail or a mug of hot cider on its front porch is an absolute must after a day of leaf peeping.

The Clark , a well-respected museum set on 140 acres of beautiful landscape, is home to an extraordinary collection of European and American paintings, sculpture, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the early 20th century with particular depth in the works of American masters Winslow Homer, George Inness, and John Singer Sargent. In addition to the classical white marble main building from 1955, the campus includes a stunning addition with a reflecting pool from Japanese architect Tadao Ando. Ground/work , the museum’s first outdoor exhibition of site-specific installations, is free to the public, and not to be missed.

Hancock Shaker Village is a must-visit destination of 750 acres, 20 historic Shaker buildings, and over 22,000 Shaker artifacts that demonstrate the history, industry, life, and traditions of the Shakers and their achievements and contributions to the American way of life and design history. Standouts include the magnificent 1826 Round Stone Barn and the 1830 Brick Dwelling.

Edith Wharton’s legendary home, The Mount , is a master class in classical architecture, landscape design, and interior decoration. A tour of the house, gardens, and fifty acre grounds will give visitors a taste of Gilded Age life and also a dramatic view of the Berkshire foliage fireworks.

Charles H. Baldwin & Sons , a 133-year old family business, is known for its famous Madagascar Vanilla extract. The historic shop in the charming village of West Stockbridge, Mass., is stocked with other signature items such as their Maple Table Syrup, Bloody Mary Mix, and Worcestershire Sauce, as well as specialty baking items. McKimmie Co . , a home & lifestyle shop in Lenox, Mass. specializing in imported textiles, apparel, and unique home accessories. The colorful and cozy selection of throws and blankets from Scotland, England, and Ireland are perfect for fireside lounging this fall. Matt Rubiner is a cheesemonger extraordinaire and his Great Barrington shop, Rubiner’s , is beloved by major foodies such as Town & Country contributing editor Ruth Reichl, for its encyclopedic selection of cheeses, charcuterie, and specialty food items from around the world. The shop also features an equally well-rounded offering of natural wines and artisanal beers making it the perfect spot to go if you are looking for a picnic to bring on a hike or a tasty souvenir to take home.

Twigs , a boutique with locations in Lenox and Great Barrington, perfectly captures the laid back vibe of the Berkshires. From flowy Ulla Johnson dresses to the chic classic basics from Nili Lotan, Twigs is a one-stop shop for all your fall weekend wardrobe essentials.

Litchfield County, Connecticut

A favorite of New York’s fashion, media, and finance cognoscenti who prefer low-key quiet chic, Litchfield County in northwest Connecticut is a perfect weekend getaway. With its pristinely preserved colonial towns, majestic landscape, and wide offering of stylish shops and restaurants, this region provides the perfect autumn respite.

The venerable Mayflower Inn & Spa set on 58 bucolic acres in Washington, Conn., and now part of the Auberge Resort Collection , has been beautifully transformed by New York designer Celerie Kemble. Known for her sense of whimsy and artful mix, Kemble has redesigned all the rooms and suites and the entirety of the inn’s historic main house, including The Garden Room, Mayflower's new fine dining restaurant. The 20,000 square foot spa is a sanctuary in the woods offering treatments like Reiki and sound therapy in addition to the traditional massages and facials. And the inn’s calendar of activities which include cocktail-making classes and outdoor yoga in the Shakespeare Garden, will make it hard for guests to want to venture off the property.

April Bloomfield is in residence for the fall season at The Garden Room at Mayflower Inn & Spa . Bloomfield’s four-course tasting menu celebrates elegant rusticity, featuring the finest ingredients from local Connecticut farms prepared with an English sensibility. Highlights include her signature steak tartare, a perfectly spiced cauliflower Tikka Masala, a succulent grilled heritage pork loin, and the British favorite, sticky toffee pudding.

Arethusa al tavalo , a fine American dining restaurant in Bantam, Conn., is part of the Arethusa dairy and farm mini-empire founded by George Malkemus, former president of Manolo Blahnik U.S., and Sarah Jessica Parker's partner in her eponymous shoe brand. While the menu can change daily, you can expect the offerings to highlight the farm’s award-winning dairy products and the bounty of the region’s many farms. Save room for dessert because the homemade ice creams, especially the almond and toasted coconut, are out of this world. Led by acclaimed British chef Annie Wayte, The Tap Room at The White Hart Inn in Salisbury, Conn., offers a menu of comfort food that leans on Wayte’s informal style and dedication to ingredient-driven cuisine. Must haves include the addictive potato chips with sour cream and sea trout Roe, the velvety roasted carrot hummus, the juicy Whippoorwill Burger with Grafton cheddar, and a local cheese plate.

With 238 acres of unspoiled natural beauty consisting of farmland, wetlands, meadows, woodlands, and rocky ridges, Macricostas Preserve in New Preston, Conn., is one of the area’s most majestic natural refuges. For those looking for a gentler hike, there are paths through wildflower fields and a hayfield right out of a Wyeth painting. More ambitious trekkers willing to climb up the 1,250 foot elevation to Waramaug’s Rock will be rewarded with a spectacular overlook providing panoramic views of Lake Waramaug and the surrounding countryside.

The picture-perfect small town of Kent, Conn. is the art center of Litchfield County with a dozen plus galleries to peruse. Notable venues include Kenise Barnes Fine Art , which will be showing a new group of paintings by Brooklyn artist Mary Judge, and Craven Contemporary , which focuses on cutting-edge photography and also features painting and sculpture by artists such as Mickalene Thomas, Jonas Wood, and Alex Katz. A favorite of in-the-know locals like Alexi and Seth Meyers, Averill Farm —a tenth generation family farm in Washington Depot, Conn.—is the perfect place to partake in good old fashioned autumn fun. You can pick apples and pears in their 260-acre orchard or sample one of their many ciders and fresh baked pies. And while chef Cassandra Purdy and her team at Pizza for the People aren’t serving their famous wood-fired pizzas onsite this year, you can grab a frozen one for the road.

Guy Wolff’s hand-thrown clay flower pots are beloved by famous gardeners like Martha Stewart and Oprah Winfrey. His cozy Guy Wolff Pottery shop in Bantam, Conn. is a two-room farmhouse from 1761 and includes a workshop in the back where you can watch him throwing pots all day. Housed in a handsome red-brick building in the center of Washington Depot, the Hickory Stick Bookshop has been a fixture in the community for over 60 years. The staff has over a century of experience collectively and can help you explore the titles, many from local authors, in this charming space that reminds you why you love a local book store. Former New York fashion executive Martha Fish opened Milton Market in Litchfield as an “everyday luxury general store." Housed in a dramatic space that was a former blacksmith, her stylishly curated assortment includes beautiful hand-blown glassware, luxurious blankets from Swans Island in Maine, and work from many local craftsmen and artisans.

Contributing Editor William Li is the founder of art consultancy Armature Projects and the Emmy-nominated co-host of Lucky Chow , a series about Asian food and culture on PBS.

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10 Best Things to Do Outside NYC + MAP

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The Big Apple is lots of fun, but if you’re looking for things to do outside NYC , you’ll be pleased to know that there are tons of good options. From sprawling state parks to charming coastal communities and artsy downtown districts, there is a wide variety of attractions near NYC .

This guide includes 10 fun activities just outside New York City and where to find them. So, whether you’re craving some time away from the city, or you’re passing through Manhattan and want to see what you can do nearby, this article will help you out.

After reading about these attractions and cities near NYC , be sure to download the map so you can plan your perfect itinerary. Now, let’s get started !

1. Take a vacation in The Hamptons, one of the top things to do outside NYC

First, The Hamptons is one of the best places to visit outside New York City , especially during the summer. This luxurious seaside resort has a rich history and beautiful beaches, so it’s a great place to go with friends or as a couple.

Once you visit this popular summer colony, you’ll see why it’s considered one of the most charming places near NYC . The Hamptons include several distinct communities, each with its unique characteristics and attractions.

For example, Southampton is the largest community in The Hamptons and offers museums, vineyards, sidewalk cafes, and the lovely Cooper’s Beach.

A nice alternative is East Hampton , which is home to artsy shops and boutiques, or Montauk Point State Park , where you can see the imposing red-and-white lighthouse. Built in 1796, it’s one of the oldest lighthouses in the U.S., and a National Historic Landmark.

If you want to visit a beach near NYC without a car , take this Hamptons day trip from New York City . You’ll be able to visit Southampton and other nearby villages, making it one of the best  day trips from NYC .

• Recommended accommodation: The Southampton Inn is the perfect place to stay in Southampton, as it combines a summer cottage vibe with modern conveniences. The hotel has free parking, a pool, a game room, and it’s a few minutes from Cooper’s Beach .

2. Mohonk Preserve, a lovely place to go near NYC

The Mohonk Preserve is just two hours from the Big Apple, so visiting it is one of the best outdoor activities to do in NYC . This protected natural area spans 8,000 acres in the Shawangunk Mountains, so there is plenty of space to stretch your legs and explore.

The preserve was created as a conservation effort, and you can learn more by visiting the Daniel Smiley Research Center . Here, you can peruse thousands of mammal, bird, butterfly, and herbarium specimens. The center also has a research library and an impressive photograph collection.

It’s also worth checking out the Visitor Center, where you can find maps and other info. Outside the Visitor Center, you’ll find a trailhead that branches off to several hiking routes. Try the Undercliff-Overcliff Loop, which provides lovely views of the Catskills and the Wallkill Valley. A good alternative is the J & S Grafton Sensory Trail , an easy ¼-mile route that goes past the Weinstein Butterfly Garden . It’s one of the most popular hikes near NYC.

You can also go biking or horseback riding along the old carriage roads or do some rock climbing on the “Gunks cliffs.” The Mohonk Preserve also has a campsite, so it’s a beautiful place close to New York where you can escape into nature.

• Recommended accommodation: The picturesque Minnewaska Lodge in Gardiner is a few miles from the Mohonk Preserve and Lake Minnewaska State Park. The oak furniture and cabin décor give the inn a super rustic vibe that’s perfect for staying in upstate NY. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive resort in NY , Mohonk Mountain House is a great option too .

3. Visit Jones Beach State Park, one of the best things to do just outside New York City

Jones Beach State Park has one of the best beaches near NYC , so visiting it is a great thing to do outside NYC during the summer months. Located on the southern shore of Long Island , this park boasts over six miles of coastline along the Atlantic Ocean, as well as a family-friendly atmosphere.

Part of what makes this one of the top places near New York City is the clean beach where you can sunbathe, go swimming, or enjoy the surf. The park also has a public pool and children’s playgrounds, so you can come here with the entire family. Other fun activities include basketball, corn hole, pickleball, ping pong, and shuffleboard.

Spend the morning enjoying the sea breeze along the walking and jogging path, stop for lunch at a boardwalk café, and join family or friends in a game of mini-golf in the afternoon. You’ll find no shortage of ways to spend the day here, plus you’ll be close to nearby attractions like Fire Island and Old Westbury Gardens.

• Recommended accommodation: Check in at the Jones Beach Hotel , which is less than a 10-minute drive from Jones Beach State Park. You’ll enjoy free Wi-Fi, on-site dining, and a spa bathtub where you can relax after a long day .

4. Visit Thomas Edison National Historic Park, another top thing to do outside NYC

Thomas Edison National Historic Park offers lots of fun things to do outside NYC , so it’s worth a visit. The park has two distinct areas about a ½-mile from each other: Edison’s lab complex and his former home in Llewellyn Park.

Edison himself built the lab in 1887, and the entire complex contains several buildings, including his library, office, photography studio, machine shop, and labs for chemistry, metallurgy, and physics. He had a previous lab before this one, which he built in 1876. It’s located in Menlo Park, about 40 minutes away.

The laboratory complex at the national historic park helped Edison achieve his advancements in phonographs, sound recordings, and motion picture cameras, so it’s quite an important site.

At Llewellyn Park, you can visit the Glenmont Estate where Edison lived with his second wife, Mina. The beautiful home was built in the 1880s in the Queen Anne style and features 29 rooms and a greenhouse with native and exotic plants. The home was also one of the first to have the modern amenities we enjoy today, such as indoor flush toilets, electrical wiring, and a water heater.

The home was declared a National Historic Site in 1955 and, behind the house, you can see Thomas Edison’s and Mina’s burial sites.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at the Cambria Hotel West Orange , where you’ll be just three miles from the Thomas Edison National Historic Park. Plus, the hotel has free parking, an indoor pool, and private bathrooms .

5. Bear Mountain State Park, another great place to visit near NYC

If you’re looking for a beautiful place near NYC where you can enjoy nature, head to Bear Mountain State Park . Named for Bear Mountain, which looks like a bear when viewed in profile, the park spans over 5,200 acres and grants you sweeping views of the Hudson River.

The recreational activities here include biking, hiking, boating, swimming, and, in the winter, cross-country skiing, sledding, and ice skating. If you’re looking for family things to do outside New York City , you can rent a paddleboat at Hessian Lake, take the kids to the playground, or visit the Trailside Museums, which have exhibits on geology and history.

Also, Bear Mountain is right next to another park, Harriman State Park , which is home to hiking routes like the Blue Disc Trail and Long Path, as well as the beautiful Lake Sebago . It’s a popular place to do some wildlife viewing and camping, but if you just want to pass through these parks, take the Perkins Memorial Drive , a scenic road that leads to the summit of Bear Mountain. From there, you can get a panoramic view of the park and the greater Palisades Interstate Park, which I’ll talk about next.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at The Overlook Lodge & Stone Cottages at Bear Mountain for views of the Hudson River and Hessian Lake. It has woodland hiking trails, an ice skating rink, and a pool, plus it’s less than a 15-minute drive to Harriman State Park .

6. Palisades Interstate Park, a beautiful place to go near NYC

Bear Mountain State Park and Harriman State Park are part of the larger Palisades Interstate Park , a huge riverfront park that stretches across New York and New Jersey. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965, the park features breathtaking cliffs, overlooks, and hiking trails. It’s certainly one of the best things to do in New Jersey , so if you’re looking for natural attractions near NYC , be sure to check it out.

The New Jersey portion of the park takes up about 12 miles in Fort Lee and offers picnic areas, lookout points, hiking routes, and other natural features. Hiking enthusiasts can enjoy over 30 miles of trails, such as the Long Path route, which leads to the stunning Rockefeller Lookout. Another great route is the Shore Trail , which goes past the Kearney House , a historic homestead and tavern from the 1800s.

The Kearney House is just one of the historic landmarks in the park, several of which date back to the American Revolutionary War. For example, Fort Lee Historic Park was an important encampment during the war, while the Hasbrouck House was the home of General George Washington during the final year of the war. You can also visit the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site , where the battle of Stony Point took place in 1779.

Again, Palisades Interstate Park is huge, so if you want, you can drive along the Palisades Scenic Byway , which runs through forests and along the cliffs of the Hudson River.

• Recommended accommodation: Hyatt Place Fort Lee/George Washington Bridge is a 12-minute drive from Palisades Interstate Park, or you could check our guide on where to stay in NYC .

7. Storm King Art Center, one of the best attractions near NYC

Visiting the Storm King Art Center is another fun thing to do outside NYC , and it’s just an hour from Manhattan. This open-air museum originated as a museum for the Hudson River School’s paintings, and it eventually evolved into an outdoor sculpture garden.

Today, it’s home to the biggest collection of contemporary outdoor sculptures in the U.S., with works by Alexander Calder, David Smith, Richard Serra, and Isamu Noguchi, among others. The Storm King Art Center takes up about 500 acres, so you can rent a bike from the visitor center to cover more ground. Besides the intriguing sculptures and landscaped grounds, you can marvel at the beautiful natural backdrop, which looks especially gorgeous during the fall.

The permanent collection contains 115 sculptures, and the museum holds special exhibits throughout the year. Admission is $20 per person, and you should plan on spending a few hours here. Before or after your visit, consider visiting nearby Storm King Mountain, which stands 1,340 feet above the Hudson Highlands.

• Recommended accommodations: The Beacon Hermitage is about 30 minutes from the Art Center, but it’s also in the town of Beacon, so it’s worth staying at if you’re also visiting this city. If you prefer something closer to Storm King, the Caldwell House Bed & Breakfast offers private suites with a kitchenette and bathroom .

8. Go to Greenwich, CT, a popular thing to do outside New York City

Even though it’s in Connecticut, Greenwich is just an hour from the Big Apple, so it’s another great place near New York . Greenwich offers a bit of everything – history, architecture, public parks, a downtown district, and even a beautiful coastline.

History buffs can check out the Revolutionary War-era buildings like the Bush-Holley House and Putnam’s Cottage , while those in search of art and culture can explore downtown Greenwich’s museums and shops.

If you plan to spend more time here, then you should check out the nearby natural surroundings. For example, Greenwich Point Park is a beautiful park with a beach where you can swim, sunbathe, and bike along the water.

Alternatively, Montgomery Pinetum Park at the Greenwich Botanical Center offers scenic walking trails, and it’s right next to Pomerance Park , a wooded area with hiking routes, a pond, an old mansions, and other historical buildings.

• Recommended accommodation: The J House Greenwich Hotel is conveniently located between Greenwich and Stamford, close to Putnam Cottage and Montgomery Pinetum Park .

9. Sleepy Hollow, NY, a place to visit near NYC during the fall

Located along the banks of the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow is notorious for its portrayal in the Legend of Sleepy Hollow , which describes the ghost of the Headless Horseman. While it’s considered a haunted place, Sleepy Hollow is one of the safest and most charming small towns in the country and a beautiful place near NYC to visit.

This town offers lots of historical sites and unique structures, so you’ll feel like you’re walking through a storybook. Pay a visit to the Old Dutch Church , built in the 1690s, and the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , which is just steps away from the Headless Horseman Bridge.

It’s also worth visiting the old Tarrytown Lighthouse and the Philipsburg Manor House , a Colonial-era estate with a water mill and museum. The home dates back to the 1690s, and the living-history museum employees wear period clothing and demonstrate old colonial chores like milking cows, grinding grain, and farming.

Sleepy Hollow is also close to the Rockefeller State Park Preserve , a lush 1,1770-acre park with wooded hiking trails and carriage roads. A Visitor Center and non-profit farm are also located in the park, as well as Rockwood Hall, the former home of William Rockefeller.

Since it’s just 30 miles from NYC, visiting Sleepy Hollow is the perfect thing to do outside New York , especially if you’re a fan of history.

• Recommended accommodation: If you want the full experience, stay at the Castle Hotel & Spa , where you can sleep in a castle room and enjoy pristine facilities like an outdoor pool and hot tub, terrace lounge, and daily breakfast in the Garden Room .

10. Beacon, NY, another great thing to see near New York City

Last but not least, Beacon, NY is one of the top weekend getaways from NYC , offering all kinds of fun attractions outside New York City .

Located in the Hudson Valley, Beacon is a beautiful relic of the past, full of historic landmarks like Bannerman Castle , an abandoned military warehouse. You can also see old Victorian and Gothic architecture at the Eustatia cottage and the Madam Brett Homestead .

There also lovely public parks and art galleries, particularly Dia Beacon , an impressive gallery space housed in an old Nabisco box-printing factory. Dia Beacon contains paintings, photographs, and sculptures from the 1960s to present-day, and is one of the biggest art museums in the country.

If you’re looking for nature-related things to do outside New York City , Mt. Beacon Park is gorgeous and full of scenic hiking trails, as well as an old 60-foot fire tower that you can climb. It’s also worth seeing Hudson Highlands State Park , home to endangered species like the bald eagle and the Wilkinson Memorial Trail , leading to the highest peak in Beacon.

It’s also worth noting that Beacon is close to another beautiful city, Cold Spring, NY . Its Historic District has an impressive collection of 19 th -century buildings, and its Main Street is lined with cute little shops and restaurants. You can also visit the Stonecrop Gardens , a public alpine garden; or go hiking on the Foundry Preserve Trail or the Breakneck Ridge Loop.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at the lovely Beacon Hermitage , a bed and breakfast surrounded by landscaped gardens in the Hudson River Valley. It’s about three miles from downtown Beacon’s galleries and shops.

Now you know the 10 best things to do outside New York City ! You can download this map with all the places I mentioned; it’ll help you decide where to visit near New York  and, maybe plan longer road trips from NYC .

I hope you enjoyed reading about some of the most interesting places close to NYC . If you have any questions or you’d like to add your recommendation, leave me a comment below. I’ll be happy to answer you! Until then, have a safe trip.

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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.

Anna Borges

Jessica Puckett

Karthika Gupta

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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• Destinations

13 Best Road Trips From NYC

How to escape the city without getting on a plane.

One of our favorite parts of travel is visiting local, boutique hotels and independently owned businesses . Whether you're looking to escape the heat of an NYC summer, or just explore a nearby destination you've never seen before, these 13 road trips make for the perfect mini-break.

Here are the best road trips from New York City, from the most luxurious corners of New England to charming, up-and-coming Catskills enclaves.

1. Westerly, Rhode Island

A quaint coastal town overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Westerly is a two-and-a-half-hour Amtrak ride or a three-hour drive from NYC. Visitors can post up at Ocean House , a Relais & Châteaux property. On the grounds, guests get access to a private white-sand beach, the Mercedes-Benz Program (you can borrow and drive around town in the latest models at no charge), Ocean & Harvest Spa , and complimentary cooking classes at the Center for Wine & Culinary Arts .

2. Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is one of the most idyllic towns on the Jersey Shore, as evidenced by attractions from from the historic Congress Hall Hotel — opened in 1816 — to the paved promenade along its beaches. Stop in for fresh seafood at The Lobster House, and grab a sunset cocktail by the fire pits at the waterfront hot spot, Rusty Nail .

3. Finger Lakes, New York

Less than a five-hour drive from NYC, the Finger Lakes region is comprised of 11 pristine lakes, excellent wineries, great hiking through scenic gorges, and historical attractions. For a luxurious home-away-from-home escape, stay on Cayuga Lake at The Inns of Aurora . Here, you can check into the lavishly decorated Zabriskie House and head down the street for a cooking demonstration at Aurora Cooks , followed by a cocktail at the hotel's 1833 Kitchen & Bar . Off the property, visit the nearby Heart & Hands Wine Company to taste their pinot noirs, or enjoy a peaceful day of hiking at Watkins Glen State Park.

4. Alexandria, Virginia

Nicholas Schmidt/Travel + Leisure

Venturing to Old Town Alexandria will help you feel a world away from the bustle of NYC. Architecture enthusiasts will love Old Town's 18th- and 19th-century facades, while the shopping-inclined traveler will enjoy patronizing the inviting local businesses. Right on the Potomac, Alexandria is one of our favorite southern U.S. cities — right up there with Savannah and Charleston — but it's only four hours from NYC by car.

5. Catskills, New York

Cooperstown is a four-hour drive from NYC through the scenic Catskill Mountains. Stay close to Otsego Lake at The Inn at Cooperstown ; built in 1874, the historic, award-winning hotel is home to 18 beautiful guest rooms. From Cooperstown, it's a short ride to the north end of the lake and Glimmerglass State Park , a perfect spot for out-of-town visitors to explore.

Meanwhile, the charming Catskills town of Roxbury is a quick, three-hour drive from NYC. Stay at The Roxbury at Stratton Falls , a lovely boutique hotel with eclectic decor. If you love to stargaze, book the astronomy-focused Galileo's Gate cottage with its own glass-ceiling observation deck.

6. Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

The Pocono Mountains are an easy getaway from New York City, just under two hours away. For those who want a full nature immersion, consider a stay at Cranberry Run Campground . It's surrounded by 65 acres of woodlands, and campers can hang out at the on-site outdoor pool or explore the nearby Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, and rafting.

7. Lexington, Massachusetts

Situated approximately 15 miles from Boston in bucolic woodlands, Lexington is the perfect destination for American history buffs. Stay at the stunning 22-room Inn at Hastings Park , a Relais & Châteaux property that's centrally located to Walden Pond, Battle Green (where the first shots of the Revolutionary War were fired), the Hancock-Clarke House, and the Orchard House (where "Little Women" was set). You can reach this town in less than four hours from NYC.

8. Niagara Falls, New York

It'll take seven hours from NYC, but if you trek 400 miles north of the city, you'll make it to Niagara Falls, New York. The trip itself is exceptionally scenic, with plenty of opportunity for hiking or picnic lunches along the way. Once you arrive at Niagara Falls State Park , you'll be overwhelmed by the rainbows, mist, and thunderous roar generated by the American, Horseshoe, and Bridal Veil Falls.

9. Newport, Rhode Island

Only a four-hour drive from NYC, Newport is a must-visit for all East Coast road trippers. This summer, stay at The Vanderbilt for a taste of opulence. With 33 rooms located in the authentic former mansion of a real Vanderbilt, the property was recently renovated and offers unique experiences, like a wine tasting paired with a vinyl listening session on a vintage gramophone and tea leaf reading sessions with a professional psychic.

10. Haines Falls, New York

The Catskills are so nice that they made the list twice. With majestic waterfalls, unique towns, and beautiful scenery, the region offers incredible outdoor experiences. The hamlet of Haines Falls, in the Great Northern Catskills , is home to the highest cascading waterfall in New York state, Kaaterskill Falls . The trail, which is open year-round, is about a mile and a half round-trip. Road trippers should also head to Round Top to see Glen Falls, which doubles as a popular swimming hole during the warmer months.

11. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Drive three hours from NYC, and you'll wind up in the stunning Berkshires in western Massachusetts. While visiting, grab iced coffees and croissants from Six Depot Roastery & Cafe and picnic along Shaker Mill Pond. For a quintessentially charming New England stay, check out The Old Inn on the Green .

12. North Fork, New York

Head out to the North Fork of Long Island, which has great dining and wineries, but is still quieter than the buzzing Hampton towns on the South Fork. On your way to the North Fork from NYC, stop off at Jerry & the Mermaid for lunch. Your first winery in North Fork should be Bedell Cellars . And when you're driving back to the city, if the season is right, take a detour to see the lavender fields at Lavender by the Bay .

13. Keene Valley, Adirondacks, New York

The Adirondacks are worth visiting in any season. Keene is well-situated in the highest peaks of the Adirondacks, offering great downhill and cross-country skiing in the winter, and hiking in the summer (we recommend taking the Giant Mountain trail at the base of Roaring Brook Falls). For a lovely bed-and-breakfast, check out the Keene Valley Lodge .

Kid-Friendly Day Trips Outside NYC That Are Worth the Drive

Grab those sanitizing wipes and hit the road..

Published on 3/25/2021 at 9:26 AM

EDITOR'S NOTE: You don’t need a week-long vacation to make some new family memories. In fact, the smaller moments (and adventures) can be so much more memorable. That’s why we partnered with the all-new Toyota Sienna to create The Re-Route, a series of articles and videos that center on sharing the things you love with your kids, including your favorite hike or upstate pizza joint.

COVID has certainly put the brakes on many family trips  — but that doesn’t mean you’re forced to be stuck inside until the pandemic is over. Whether you’re looking for an easy family hike, a throwback trip to the drive-in, or exploring one of our New York’s charming upstate towns, we’ve found day trips that are both kid-friendly and fun for grown-ups, too. So, pile everybody into the car, grab those sanitizing wipes, and hit the road.

Pet cute animals at a family-friendly farm

Mattituck, New York The North Fork of Long Island may also be “out east,” but the vibe couldn’t be more different. What is similar, however, is its natural beauty and its easy accessibility from New York. One of the area’s most charming hamlets is Mattituck, which also happens to be home to the perennially popular Harbes Family Farm . During the season, you’ll find everything from a farm animal petting zoo, hedge mazes, trike tracks, and, of course, impossibly fresh fruits and vegetables. Wrap up the day with a sweets bonanza: they’re known for their apple cider doughnuts and fresh-squeezed lemonade. Drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes 

Explore New York’s best under-the-radar zoo

Millbrook, New York There is no question that New York City boasts some of the country’s best zoos, but if you’re looking to avoid crowds, head north. The Trevor Zoo at Millbrook School in bucolic Millbrook, New York, may be small, but it is mighty. Animals include fan favorites such as red pandas, lemurs, and golden lion tamarins. Even better, it’s open every day of the year (with an advance reservation) and at $6 per adult ticket and $4 per kid, it leaves plenty of room in the budget to grab lunch in lovely Millbrook after. We recommend Babette’s Kitchen for grab-and-go sandwiches the whole family will love. Drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes 

Stuff your faces on a pizza crawl

New Haven, Connecticut Without a doubt, New York City is home to some of the best pizza in the world. But don’t sleep on our neighbors to the north: New Haven, with its homegrown “apizza” is absolutely worth a stop for any pie lover. To sample this unique, coal-fired variety, we recommend a tour of the big three: Frank Pepe for the white clam pie, the tomato pie at Sally’s Apizza , and the Italian Bomb  — loaded with bacon, sausage, and pepperoni — at Modern Apizza (which has been around since 1934). New Haven residents all have their favorite; now you can decide which one is yours. Drive time: 1 hour, 40 minutes 

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Wander through giant sculptures at an outdoor park

Cornwall, New York Parents everywhere are on the hunt for out-of-the-box outdoor activities that aren’t totally packed. Enter Storm King Art Center in Cornwall, New York: an awe-inspiring, 500-acre outdoor museum that features site-specific and large-scale sculptures scattered amid its manicured fields. With such a large footprint and so many pieces to explore, you can easily spend the whole day wandering the grounds and still not discover everything. But, keep an eye out for some of our favorites, like Mark di Suvero’s towering steel piece, or Maya Lin’s wavy earthwork. Drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes 

Commune with nature on a scenic family hike

Cold Spring, New York One of the most accessible upstate towns to visit from New York City, Cold Spring has long been a favorite of those looking to escape urban life without spending too many hours in the car. While its main street is charming and definitely worth a stop, the biggest draw here is the abundance of hiking just minutes from town. We recommend exploring Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve: at over 8,000 acres, it has more than enough room for hiking, kayaking, birding, and fishing. Or, you can just enjoy the postcard-perfect views of the Hudson River. Drive time: 1 hour, 15 minutes 

Pretend it’s the 1950s at an upstate drive-in

Amenia, New York A silver lining of 2020 was the sudden resurgence in popularity of drive-in movie theaters. One of the best can be found in the charming town of Amenia, New York, in the Hudson Valley. Four Brothers Drive-In Theatre is much more than just a cinema, however; there is a playground for kids, overnight camping, and even a yard reserved for pups. It’s also worth checking out for the food alone: 1950s classics like double burgers, foot-long hotdogs, and their famed Nutella milkshake are all excellent. Drive time: 2 hours 

Immerse yourself in art in a quirky river town

Beacon, New York Art and artists abound in this cool-kid Hudson Valley town on the east side of the river. Start your day with a trip to the wonderful Dia Beacon , an art museum housed in a nearly-300,000 square-foot former Nabisco box-printing factory. Each gallery space was designed to house just one artist’s work, including heavy hitters like Richard Serra, whose giant installation is always a favorite for the kids. After, head to Main Street to peruse galleries and local boutiques, and to treat yourself to sweets from Hudson Valley Marshmallow Co . (we recommend the French Toast variety). End your day with a meal outdoors on the patio at The Roundhouse Restaurant , which prides itself on its stunning views of a nearby waterfall; or, if you’ve got mini-science fiction fans, a trip to the Dr. Who -themed Pandorica . Drive time: 1 hour, 25 minutes 

Watch history come alive 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania For Hamilton -obsessed kids, what better way to teach them about the American Revolution than a trip down to the City of Brotherly Love? And, at an under-two-hour drive from New York, it’s more than doable as a day trip. Start your exploration at The Museum of the American Revolution , where life-size dioramas depict the birth of our nation in stunning detail. From there, see where it all began with a trip to the famed Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell. End your day with a stroll to the National Constitution Center , a museum that brings to life that great founding document of our country through interactive exhibits and programs. Drive time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Find your inner scientist at this immersive museum

Jersey City, New Jersey With all of New York’s stellar museums, it’s easy to forget that there are still others worth driving for outside of the state. One of the area’s best for kids and adults is certainly the Liberty Science Center, just across the river in Jersey City. With COVID-safeguards in place, like reserving tickets in advance and requiring face masks, families can feel secure while they explore everything from exhibits about Rubik’s Cubes to DC Universe superheroes to the world’s first suspended climbing structure. Drive time: 25 minutes 

Play in the sun on the beaches “out east”

Southampton, New York Sure, the traffic can be brutal at the height of the summer, but there’s a reason why so many New Yorkers get that dreamy look in their eyes when they talk about The Hamptons. Plus, it’s pretty beautiful year-round, so don’t write off a trip in the shoulder season. If you’ve never been, start off with a day trip to Southampton, a gorgeous town that’s an easier drive than some of those that are farther east. Set up camp at Cooper’s Beach, which is often rated amongst the best beaches in the country due to its white, sandy shoes and family-friendly vibe. Then, head into town to stroll the picturesque Main Street and to grab a bite. The Golden Pear is a perennial favorite for old and young alike: kids love the mac ’n cheese and parents swear by their coffee. And, if everyone has been on good behavior, pay a visit to Stevenson’s Toys & Games , where you can stock up on everything from action figures to kites. Drive time: 1 hour, 50 minutes 

Explore one of the Hudson Valley’s most underrated towns

Ghent, New York Ghent may be tiny, but it packs a punch. Located just north of the city of Hudson, there are charming farms, immersive outdoor art museums, and a bakery that would rival any in France. Start your day at Bartlett House , a beautiful, restored railroad hotel that boasts one of the best breakfast menus in the county ( definitely grab the cherry cornmeal scones). Then, enjoy the peace and beauty of Art Omi , a 120-acre art and sculpture park with plenty of open spaces for kids to zoom through. Swing by Love Apple Farm on your way home, where, depending on the season, you can pick your own apples, grab local produce at the market, and squeal over the animals in their on-site petting zoo. Drive time: 2 hours, 10 minutes

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Best Unique & Fun Ideas for Day Trips from NYC

Written by Becca

Updated on April 15th, 2024

Looking for the best easy day trips from NYC by car, bus or by train? These fun day trip ideas are the most fun and unique places to visit outside New York City.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in New York

Day Trips from NYC

Poughkeepsie

• Cold Spring
• Storm King Art Center
• Minnewaska State Park Preserve
• Clarence Fahnestock State Park
• Bear Mountain State Park
• Harriman State Park
• Dater Mountain Nature Park
• Jersey City
• Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
• Watchung Reservation
• South Mountain Reservation
• Asbury Park
• Wawayanda State Park
• Jones Beach
• Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
• Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Philadelphia

• Mianus River Park

Everyone knows that once you live in NYC, you love it, but you’re also looking for your next escape to leave the city for some breathing room. And if you’re traveling in NYC, maybe you heard that there are SO many places to visit for a day trip, not too far away!

My definition of a day trip is “under 2 hours of travel,” so this list features places that aren’t too far from NYC or anywhere in the area.

This list features some of my favorite easy and doable day trips, including small towns, beaches, hiking areas, cultural points of interest and historic sites. These day trip ideas are in Upstate NY, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.

I hope you enjoy this list, which features day trips I’ve taken through the years and some hidden gems for getaways from the city.

NYC day trips to Upstate NY

When New Yorkers or visitors think of “day trip ideas from NYC,” most think of “Upstate New York. It’s an obvious choice for any of the northbound train lines, bus routes or highways.

Upstate New York is a vast region that stretches all the way to Canada. As for my “day trip” ideas, we’ll be sticking to any locations at less than a two-hour drive from Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

If you find a flight to Upstate NY for your trip and you plan on sticking around the region, consider the upstate Stewart Airport, which we detail in our guide to how to pick the best NYC airport to fly into .

It doesn’t matter which time of year you’re visiting NYC because Upstate NY offers special experiences throughout every season.

Beacon! Beacon surged in popularity in the 2000s and has become a destination of its own for day trippers, weekenders and road trippers. Best of all, Beacon is a town in the Hudson Valley that is conveniently located on Metro North, and it’s also a 1.5-hour easy drive from NYC.

What’s there to do in Beacon, NY, for a day trip? We outline this in our Beacon weekend travel guide . You can see art at dia:Beacon, a fun and vibrant food and bar scene, views of the sunset on the Hudson River and nearby hikes at the Beacon Fire Tower trail.

Poughkeepsie is a Hudson Valley town that would be a stretch for a day trip, but once you get there, there are lots of attractions that can fill up a day if you leave NYC early and come back late. You’ll also feel like you really got away! It’s about 1 hour and 40 min by driving, to NYC.

The main attraction in Poughkeepsie is the Walkway Over the Hudson, an elevated pedestrian-only bridge that is actually a New York State Park. This long bridge has panoramic views of the Hudson River, and when you finish your walk, stop by any of Poughkeepsie’s Mexican restaurants for a bite.

New Paltz is a ‘crunchy’ and sort of hippie-dippie town in the Hudson Valley on the west side of the Hudson River, known for the NY State University of New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) and a small-town vibe.

The town is very walkable, with food offerings like breweries, a smattering of cafes and Vietnamese food. There are also some historic locations from 18th century Huguenot settlers. To drive from NYC, it’s about 90 minutes flat.

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a charming pastel Hudson Valley town with a walkable downtown, Hudson River views at a riverside park and a slew of antique shops for some proper antiquing. If you walk down the side streets, you’ll see charming restored historic homes.

Cold Spring is indeed quite small, and so you can explore the entire town and nearby hikes, if you have a car. If you wish to come by train, simply take MetroNorth from Grand Central Station or from Harlem, to the Cold Spring station. The drive is less than 1 hour and 20 min from NYC.

Storm King Art Center

Storm King has for many years been a big bucket list item for New Yorkers, and for good reasons! Storm King is located not too far outside the city, with the closest actual town being New Windsor, NY. Check out the Storm King webste to plan your trip.

Storm King is a 500-acre open-air sculpture and art park, where visitors can roam around, take photos, enjoy the greenery or foliage (in fall) and enjoy on-site bike rentals and the cafe. It’s a great spot for a photo op with friends and family. Storm King will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes driving from NYC.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Clocking in at just under two hours via driving from Brooklyn and Manhattan, the Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a lovely natural destination in the very lower tip of the Catskill Mountains . It’s a favorite day trip destination for New Yorkers due to being easily driveable and back, in a single day.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve has 25 miles of hiking trails alone, and is best known for waterfalls, cliff views and wildlife and birding. You’ll surely get your fill of nature here, and you can go back to the urban jungle to sleep at night. Keep in mind that it’s a 1 hour 50 minute drive from NYC.

When visiting nature preserves remember to be a sustainable traveler by following our favorite eco-friendly travel tips like bringing your own reusable snack containers and leaving no trace of your waste.

Clarence Fahnestock State Park

We found ourselves in Clarence Fahnestock State Park during a trip up to Fishkill, Garrison and Cold Spring one summer, and it was a pleasant state park stop on a trip when we otherwise saw lots of river views and small towns. The drive should be about 1 hour and 15 min from NYC!

If you mention this long-winded park name to anyone, they probably will never have heard of it, and that’s the nice part about it. Clarence Fahnestock State Park is by no means a bucket list item, but you will find yourself in acres and acres of green forest, where there’s also lakes with small beaches, campgrounds, picnic areas and fishing areas.

Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is one of the most famous hiking destination day trips from NYC, and it’s a spectacular place to visit for a day from spring to autumn (in fact, my parents just went to Bear Mountain as a day trip from Northern NJ).

Bear Mountain is located on the west side of the Hudson, not too far up in Rockland County, NY, which is across the river from Westchester County. Driving to Bear Mountain from Brooklyn or Manhattan would take you a dab over an hour with no traffic!

If you do visit in winter, you can do activities like cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating, all within the Bear Mountain State Park areas. For the drive, budget about 1 hour and 20 min from NYC (with no traffic).

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, if driven with no traffic, could potentially take you even less than one hour if coming from within NYC. It’s a state park located in Rockland County, and it is known for beautiful wildlife, with 22 miles of hiking trails, along with horseback trails and biking trails.

Here’s a secret: it’s the second-largest state park in all of New York State, and that’s your factoid of the day. The only larger state park is the Adirondack Park up north, near Canada.

Our best tip for day trippers to Harriman State Park is to bring your own food and lots of water, as there aren’t many accessible stores, even as you exit, for at least a few miles. Also, bring sunscreen and hats, as the starts of some hikes are full of sun without shade.

Dater Mountain Nature Park

We bet you’ve never heard of Dater Mountain Nature Park, unless you’re from Rockland County or northern NJ. Dater Mountain Nature Park is located near Ramapo, and Sloatsburg, NY, and believe it or not, this natural area is home to 31 lakes and beaches, with hiking for all skill levels.

At just a dab over an hour’s drive from NYC, it is a great idea for a day trip if you wish to get into nature and get your hiking boots worn in.

Day trip ideas for New Jersey

Don’t roll your eyes at the mention of New Jersey, because there’s more to the Garden State than I-95 and Newark Airport. If you’d like to be pleasantly surprised by all the day trips from NYC to New Jersey, read this list and then you’ll believe we told ya so.

At a little over an hour’s drive from NYC, Princeton, NJ, is a destination in central New Jersey where you can visit the famed Princeton University, the campus of which is a striking place to walk around, take photos and admire architecture.

Princeton itself is a charming town with a walkable downtown, including bars, restaurants, shopping and historic sites. Princeton also has a train station on New Jersey Transit (NJT) train lines, and Amtrak.

Maplewood is a cool northern NJ town easily accessible both on NJ Transit trains and via car from NYC. It has a small city vibe with an array of restaurants, places to eat and small shops, and easily-accessible natural surroundings you can visit with a car, such as South Mountain Reservation (for hiking) and the South Mountain Fairy Trail.

Maplewood is known for being a town where families from NYC move to raise children. Here, you’ll find a ton of familiy-friendly restaurants, as everyone dines out with their babies, toddlers and kids. The downtown area and the pretty Memorial Park are right next to the train station.

I recommend Maplewood as an easy day trip to see an NJ suburb if you are looking for how to plan a trip to NYC with a baby , especially.

Montclair is a trendy and happenin’ northern NJ town also easily accessible most directly via its several stations on the NJ Transit train lines, which will connect you directly from NY Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan with this small New Jersey City.

Montclair has a state university (Montclair State) and has long been known for cool cafes, several bars, a nice food scene, shopping and the Montclair Art Museum.

You can see more about Jersey City, especially if you’re a runner looking for scenic views, in our NYC best running routes guide .

Fort Lee, NJ, is a more urban-style NJ small city right over the George Washington Bridge from Washington Heights in Manhattan. This being said, you could walk there from Manhattan, if you wanted to. Otherwise, it’s easy to take a bus to Fort Lee, or you can take a quick drive.

In terms of what to do in Fort Lee, NJ on a day trip, the first idea is “eat Asian food.” Fort Lee has one of the larger East Asian populations in all of NJ, making it a destination for Korean food. In fact, there’s so much Korean food in Fort Lee it’s actually overwhelming. We’ll let you choose your favorite place for Korean BBQ and gamjantang .

Hoboken is NJ’s square-mile city, and it’s famous for being the home of Frank Sinatra. This being said, Hoboken is a stone’s throw from Manhattan, and you can get there super quickly on the PATH train. No car is needed!

Once you get to Hoboken for your day trip, it’s nice to walk around the cute downtown and see the restaurants and bars.

Once you’ve eaten and had something to drink, head to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, the can’t-miss piers and waterfront park where you’ll see clear shots of Manhattan and the NYC skyline. If you’re lucky, you may catch some live music, too.

Jersey City

Jersey City is actually quite big, and that is what makes it a good day trip from NYC. In Jersey City alone, there are three PATH stations, with the one we’d suggest getting off at being Grove Street.

Jersey City has its own food scene (try all the Latino food!), bar scene and shopping, along with some very pretty streets with historic brick row houses. Among attractions are Liberty State Park, the Empty Sky Memorial and the Waterfront 9/11 Memorial.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Ellis Island is closer to Jersey City, NJ, than it is to New York?

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Maybe you have heard of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and maybe you haven’t, but did you know it was the first federal wildlife area in the US? Wild!

It is now part of the United States National Wildlife Refuge System, and it is located about an hour and a quarter from NYC (probably less, if coming from Manhattan near the tunnels). The Great Swamp is located near Berkeley Heights, NJ, which makes it only 26 miles from Times Square, and perfect for a day trip or half-day trip from NYC.

Did you know that you can walk on boardwalks on the 7,768 acres of this New Jersey oasis? It’ll keep your boots dry if it’s muddy.

Our day trip to the Great Swamp during peak foliage season was quiet and peaceful. For some reason, the main Observation Center was closed for parking, so we found parking at the north end of Long Hill Road and basically had the trails to ourselves on an autumn weekend afternoon. Here’s the website , where you can learn more.

Watchung Reservation

Our favorite hiking trail at Watchung Reservation is the Surprise Lake trail , which takes you around a relaxing lake. The trail itself is rather flat, after a downhill from the parking area (which has pleasantly clean bathrooms!).

We recommend going in the fall for peak foliage season, as the colors of the trees were a real treat.

Watchung Reservation is located in Mountainside, NJ, 25 miles from the center of Manhattan, so it would be a 35-40 minute drive with no traffic. We wouldn’t really recommend taking the train and then Ubering because it would be difficulty to get picked up on your return trip, but if you knew someone nearby, the nearest train would be Westfield station or Summit station.

South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain , as we lovingly refer to it, is one of our favorite “right in our backyard” hiking areas. You even don’t need a car to access the southern “Fairy Trail” and “Locust Grove” start points, as they’re a stone’s throw of walking distance from the Millburn Train station on NJ Transit.

Truly, this may be the best hiking option for NYC day trippers who don’t have a car, as the Locust Grove parking lot, which has four trailheads, is a three-minute stroll from when you get off your train.

Local expert tip: If you choose to spend some time walking around Millburn, eat at the locally-famous Millburn Deli (328 Millburn Ave, Millburn, NJ 07041).

The Fairy Trail is a kid-friendly mostly-flat local favorite that features small handmade birdhouse-sizes “fairy houses” with tiny figurines. Children love this hike, as it’s peaceful and easy, and also pretty short.

South Mountain Reservation is also accessible from other entrances in South Orange, NJ. If you’re looking for a stroller-friendly hike, check out Crest Drive, a mile-long paved pedestrian-only road originating from the Dog Park. It leads to Washington’s Point, which has some lookouts to the surrounding area. Here is more info, like directions and a visual, on All Trails .

Asbury Park

Asbury Park, NJ, has SO much to do for a day trip from NYC, and can be fun at any time of year!

This coastal New Jersey town will take you an hour and 20 minutes or less if coming from Brooklyn, and if you time your trip right from Penn Station in Manhattan, your NJ Transit ride direct to Asbury Park’s NJT train station would be one hour and 51 minutes, thereby putting it at the under-two-hours mark for mass transit transport.

Asbury Park has a heap of things to do for day trippers and families. In the summer, there’s the beach and the beachfront boardwalk on the Atlantic Ocean, and if the weather is inclement or if you’re coming in spring or fall, check out the vintage shops, restaurants, arcades, casinos and live music venues, which often host concerts and festivals.

For history buffs or gamers, make sure to stop at the Silverball Museum Arcade, which has pinball machines from the 1950s.

Getting to Red Bank, NJ, takes only an hour and 19 minutes from Penn Station, so there are really no excuses to not try a day trip there this year from NYC. If driving from Brooklyn or other parts of Manhattan, you’re looking at a trip not to exceed an hour and 10 minutes (without traffic).

What is Red Bank like for a visit and a day trip? Well, it’s not exactly a beach town, so really, what can you do there? The draw of Red Bank is its great performing arts scene, along with it’s “visual art scene,” which is great for art lovers and fans of gallery culture. Check out fine art galleries, theaters, street art and murals, all in Red Bank’s downtown, before you hit a bistro for sushi and a beer garden for a drink.

Wawayanda State Park

Turning gears to shift to the north, try saying Wawayanda State Park three times fast. It may be quicker to just get in your car or rented vehicle to drive only between an hour and 15 min or an hour and 40 minutes, depending if you are driving from Manhattan or Brooklyn, to get to this state forest at the NJ-NY northern border.

What’s the draw of Wawayanda State Park, besides that its name is super amusing to say? Well, among its whopping 34,350 acres of land and abundance of hiking trails through forest, it hosts 20 miles of the Appalachian Trail, and the top of Wawayanda Mountain has some fantastic views for those who summit.

Try boating, kayaking, fishing, sailing and swimming in warm spring and summer months, along with early fall, in Lake Wawayanda and see the website here .

Day trip ideas for Long Island

Long Island may seem like an obvious choice for day trippers from Queens and Brooklyn, along with anyone coming from Manhattan who has access to the LIRR train lines at Penn Station, or a car of their own.

What’s there to love about Long Island? Probably the fact that the water is never far away, and despite the essential beaches in Long Island that are close enough to the city for day trips, there are some hidden gems, too.

Long Beach is a long-favorited beach day trip for New York City dwellers.

To get to Long Beach from Manhattan, you’re much better off taking the LIRR train from Penn Station, as it will run you about an hour and 35 minutes in total, while taking LIRR from points in Brooklyn such as the Atlantic Ave. terminal or Nostrand Ave. terminal will only take an hour and 22 minutes at best.

Driving would be shorter, between one hour and one hour and 15 minutes, sans traffic.

Long Beach has quite literally, a rather long beach, along with a beach town that’ll slow down your pace of walking and get you a drink in hand at any of the bars, restaurants and pubs in the “State Streets” neighborhood (the streets that have states as names).

This part of town looks like the set of a movie about a beach town, with close-together houses that are home to locals and able to be rented out for a weekend. Head out to Long Beach Boardwalk for stopping at RIPTIDES 11561 and Marvel Frozen Dairy for ice cream.

Jones Beach

Jones Beach is where my parents took me as a kid, for day trips when we lived in Queens.

Jones Beach is a NY State Park, located on an island in the outer barrier islands of Long Island. That’s a lot of islands.

To get to Jones Beach for a day trip, drive from central Brooklyn for only one hour and 6 minutes, or consider that it will be about an hour and 15 minutes by car, from Midtown Manhattan. There is no public transport that would get you to Jones Beach effectively, so I won’t recommend any.

Once at Jones Beach, take photos of the beach and boardwalk, get your suntan on and go for a swim, and definitely check into the music concert schedule because there are some big bands and famous names that do concerts at Jones Beach Theater.

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

This NY State Park in Lloyd Harbor, NY, is a bit of a different day trip and one you may not expect. Located only an hour and a half from Times Square and midtown Manhattan, this Long Island English-style estate has nature trails and opportunities to learn about the history of this park on a scenic peninsula.

You can learn about the park preserve here at the website , and more about the Henry Lloyd Manor House, here .

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt on Long Island, and now it is protected by the National Park Service, thereby making it a US National Park! You can verify that on the website, here . It is located near Oyster Bay, NY, and could be a trip of only 45 minutes (at minimum) with no traffic, coming from various central points in New York City.

The park is 83 acres and includes natural areas and historic buildings. The historic site encompasses the life and story of this famous US president, and his family, until his death in 1919. Plan your visit with this helpful information at NPS.gov .

Day trip ideas to Philly or PA

You might not consider that the state of Pennsylvania is day-trippable from NYC, but it’s true: if you take the Amtrak to Philly (and cut traffic out of your disturbances), you could be in Philadelphia’s downtown in 1.5 hours if you leave from NY Penn Station at 33rd Street in Manhattan.

Philadelphia: where do we start? Philly is ironically so close yet so far, making it a funny little idea of a day trip from NYC. When you go to Philly, make sure to visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Rittenhouse Square, and then do some favors for yourself by avoiding the tourists and going local, to check out neighborhoods like Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Street.

For a visit to New Hope, you will need a car, but that should not stop you from going. New Hope is a charming Delaware River village with funky shopping, a restaurant and dining scene of its own, a theater and cultural landmarks, all in a 1.5-hour drive from NYC (even from Brooklyn), if you do not hit traffic.

Among the best things to do in New Hope, PA, for a day trip from NYC are checking out the orchards, the Delaware Canal, Parry Mansion and the New Hope Railroad.

Day trip ideas to Connecticut

Don’t forget about Connecticut as a state you can travel to on a day trip from NYC this year. Parts of Southern Connecticut are closer to NYC proper than many parts of Upstate NY and New Jersey, without question. Where can you go for a day trip from NYC, in Connecticut?

Do you have slightly more time on your hands than a single day? Consider a trip up to Litchfield County in northwestern Connecticut, for staying a night and experiencing the region!

Norwalk is a nice small city located off the Metro North train line, which you can hop on from Grand Central Station in Manhattan. Why go to Norwalk for a day? You can go to sights like the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Lockwood-Matthews Mansion House, and Calf Pasture Beach, ending your day with any of the restaurants and bars like Match, Herb’s Place, Pontos Taverna and Pasquale’s Osteria.

Driving to Norwalk, CT, from a central point like Times Square will only take a few minutes over an hour without traffic, and on the train, travel just one hour and 16 minutes with a Metro North train trip.

Stamford is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after small cities in the US, so let’s see why. With a day trip to Stamford, you can see “small city” life in this NY Metro Area suburb that is actually a city of its own in Connecticut. With sights to see like the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, Cove Island Park, and the Bartlett Arboretum, you can do so much with a day trip to Stamford.

When you’re ready to wind down and see the food and drink scene in Stamford, check out Half Full Brewery, Lock City Brewing Company, Taj and Olio.

Getting to Stamford will take an hour and 30 minutes on the New Haven line of Metro North, or, less than an hour by car (if coming from most points in Manhattan).

Greenwich, CT, is one of the most beautiful towns in America, in my opinion, and it is great for a day trip to a quaint upscale town with a location on the Long Island Sound and a pristine downtown area.

It’s easy to spend a day trip in the immediate area of Greenwich’s town, doing some shopping and restaurant-visiting, and its nearby attractions, such as the Greenwich Point Park, Greenwich Audubon Center, and Great Captain’s Island & Little Captain’s Island.

To get to Greenwich, take the New Haven Metro North Line for only an hour and 10 minutes or so, and you can also drive from Manhattan or Brooklyn, which would be between 55 and 70 minutes without traffic.

Mianus River Park

Mianus River Park is a natural park area in Fairfield County, CT, and to drive there, it’ll take around an hour from Manhattan and less than 1h20m from Brooklyn, depending where. It’s located only 40 miles from Midtown Manhattan, so it’s the perfect distance for a single-day getaway.

Mianus River Park is described as a deciduous forest of hardwood trees and varied flora and fauna, and is a nice stop on a day trip to one of the small southern Connecticut towns above, or a trip of its own, as you can see the 4.9-mile trail to hike on the popular hiking website AllTrails . It is open from sunrise to sunset, and did you know that the wetlands breed salamanders and frogs? Also, watch out for snakes! (not a joke)

Did you make it through this list? Now you’re armed with places to go for day trips and side trips, which are some crucial parts of what to know before traveling to NYC .

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best unique and fun day trips to take from NYC this year, whether by car, train, bus, bike or rental car. Never stop day tripping!

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Easy Getaways from NYC: 10 Trips Within 3 Hours of Manhattan

See recent posts by Katherine Alex Beaven

Who says you gotta stay in NYC to have all the fun? Not us! Especially during the warm months of the summer, diehard Manhattanites actually choose to leave the metropolis behind for sandy beaches and greener pastures. And fortunately, whether it's via plane, train, automobile, or even boat, they don't have to venture far to truly escape. You can be hitting the trails, sipping your way through wine country, soaking up some contemporary culture, browsing through history, or lying on the shore within just a few hours of leaving the city. All reachable from NYC within three hours max, these 10 jaunts are perfect for day trips or even guiltless and easy overnight affairs. So bring the kids (or don't!) and find your perfect getaway hiding just beyond the city -- it's closer than you may think.

1. The Catskills: Two to Three Hours by Car

An antithesis to the bright lights and constant cacophony of the city, the scenic wilderness and fresh air of the Catskills can be found within a two- to three-hour drive from New York City . In the warmer months, the area is ideal for hiking in forests yielding stunning views, dipping in the area’s natural swimming holes, or zip-lining among the treetops. If you can’t make it out there this summer, winter months make for great skiing and snowshoeing. For a relaxing, simple getaway where you can really unplug, check-in to the  The Graham & Co.  in Phoenicia where you’ll find mountain views, fresh air, free beer upon check-in, free breakfast, loaner bikes, and a small pool — but no TVs, and kinda spotty cell service. You don’t even need to rent a car to get there because this mid-range boutique is just off a bus line straight from NYC.

Pricing for The Graham & Co.

2. Finger Lakes: One Hour by Direct Flight

Just over an hour non-stop flight from New York City, a plethora of year-round, family-friendly activities await in upstate New York’s Finger Lakes . A collection of thin, finger-like shaped bodies of water, the Finger Lakes provide an ideal overnight getaway for families of all ages — with summertime being particularly perfect for water-based activities like fishing, sailing, sunbathing, and water sports, and winter giving way to fantastic snow-blanketed scenery, primed for downhill and cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. An easy and affordable overnight option for those who fly into Ithaca is the  Hope Lake Lodge . This village-like property has a water park and activities for kids, while parents can enjoy the year-round ski resort’s spa, pool, and whirlpool.

Pricing for Hope Lake Lodge & Conference Center

3. Fire Island: 90 Minutes by Train and Ferry

Technically a national park, Fire Island not only has a romantic and sultry name, but it’s often thought of as the more low-key, laid-back (and therefore, to many, more appealing) summer getaway alternative to the Hamptons . Located off the coast of Long Island , Fire Island can be reached from the city in about an hour-and-a-half — assuming you line up your transportation schedule just so. Only 32 miles long, this beach destination is home to a sunken forest, historic lighthouse built in 1826, upscale boutiques and markets, sun-drenched coastline (with clothing-optional areas), and a nice selection of restaurants and bars. We recommend staying at  The Palms Hotel  since it’s beachside location is also within walking distance of numerous attractions. Plus, this little mid-range boutique has free bikes, kayak rentals, and private beach space for guests!

Pricing for The Palms Hotel Fire Island

4. Philadelphia: 90 Minutes by Train or Two Hours by Bus

Just want to get out of New York in general? Thanks to the Amtrak Acela Express, you can be out of the Big Apple and face-deep in a traditional Philly cheesesteak in just around an hour-and-a-half. But  Philadelphia is more than just cream cheese and steak sandwiches, so spend a night or two in the City of Brotherly Love so you can check out the city’s major historical landmarks like the Liberty Bell, experience Amish country, or check out medical oddities at the strange, but fascinating, Mütter Museum. Heck, if you eat too many gooey, cheesy, eponymous cheesesteaks, you can always sprint some “stadiums” up and down the “Rocky” steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art’s entrance. To be smack in the center of the action, stay at Le Meridien Philadelphia . With a striking combination of historical and modern design, this luxurious boutique reflects the true vibe of the city.

Pricing for Le Meridien Philadelphia

5. Cape May, NJ: Two and a Half Hours by Bus

A day or two in the wholesome and historic clutches of New Jersey’s (yes, New Jersey) Cape May is enough to make anyone feel a bit nostalgic for simpler times. Offering an antithesis to  Atlantic City ‘s bright flashing lights and Vegas-like vices appeal, Cape May is a Victorian seaside town full of old-school, virtuous activities like ice cream cone-accompanied historic walks, picturesque lighthouse visits, mini-golf, and simple (and delicious) seaside eats. If you are looking for a bit more adventure, head out to sea between spring and fall where you can try to spot dolphins, whales, and other marine animals in their natural habitat. To fully immerse yourself in the town’s history, stay at The Queen Victoria , a family-owned B&B. This mid-range, 30-room boutique not only has Victorian home credibility, but it also serves up tasty breakfasts and afternoon tea, and offers guests bike rentals.

Pricing for The Queen Victoria

6. Atlantic City: Two Hours by Car

For some, though, the spectacle of Atlantic City is just what they’re looking for. Originally created as a resort town in the mid-1800s, Atlantic City was once a glitzy and glamorous destination for high rollers, vacationing families, and sneaky bootleggers during prohibition. In fact, the seaside resort town — home to the world’s first boardwalk — was so popular it was dubbed “The World’s Playground,” and was the inspiration behind  Monopoly. Un fortunately, this didn’t last long and after World War II, it became a seedy, crumbling icon. But over the last few decades, it’s cleaned up its act and, thanks to the Atlantic City Expressway and the opening of the luxe  Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa , the city’s most extravagant hotel, it has started regaining popularity. It’s fallen on some hard times again, but overall there are numerous delicious restaurants, decadent spas, and busy casinos — at very affordable prices.

Pricing for Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

7. Bear Mountain: One Hour by Car or 45 Minutes by Train

Just 45 minutes north of the city, Bear Mountain Park is an ideal — and idyllic — spot to get you hike-n-picnic on. Besides offering sweeping view of upstate New York, the area also has a zoo, carousel, and pools. Hiking trails range from easy loops to more advanced and calve-aching bits of the Appalachian Trail.

8. City Island – 45 minutes by Subway or Bus

City Island is such a quiet, cute, and quaint spot, it’s hard to believe that it’s just across a bridge from the big city. Perfect for a last-minute day trip or add-on adventure from the Bronx, this little island has nautical-themed Americana oozing from its shuttered homes and wooden marina. The main road is cluttered with cozy restaurants (mostly serving seafood), dusty antique stores, and water activities like kayaking and fishing. Walk to the island’s end and you’ll find seafront fish spot Johnny’s Reef Restaurant, where you can get boiled or fried fish, oysters, clams, hush puppies, and more — all with a view.

9. Beacon, NY: Just Over an Hour by Train

For a day of fresh air, culture, and a change of scenery, hop on the Metro-North’s Hudson to Beacon, home of the celebrated contemporary art museum Dia: Beacon, cute antique shops, and hiking. You can even buy a special train ticket that includes round-trip fare plus admission to the Dia — which is just a short, five-minute walk from the station. Hikes up Mt. Beacon also start at the station and those who can stick out the uphill battle will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Hudson River Valley.

10. Higher Hudson Valley Wineries: 90 Minutes by Car or Bus

Think you have to fly to the West Coast just to get a good tasting American vino? Think again. Although not as well known or popular as vineyards on the left coast, Hudson Valley offers wines that are nothing to scoff at — and the region’s close proximity to NYC makes for a perfectly paired day trip from the big city. While you could drive through any of the different wine trails, like the Dutchess or Shawangunk, we suggest finding a tour company so you can sip responsibly. With over 20 wineries throughout the region, there’s no shortage of stops to choose from.

What to Bring on Your Excursion from NYC: S’well Water Bottle

Traveler Aurora Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle by S’well

Whether you’re leaving for a day or a week, this stainless steel bottle is a great, eco-friendly option for when you’re parched on the go.

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11 Amazing Nature Spots Near New York City

Few people, including actual residents know that there are amazing nature spots near New York City, and as someone who loves this topic and explores these areas, I’ve got 11 places to share with you today that are truly incredible.

These 11 nature spots near NYC can be up to a 2 hour drive outside the city and depending on how much time you have, be it a single day or possibly more, you’ll decide whether or not you can cover these 11 areas or not. It is absolutely possible to check out several of the spots on this list in one day though.

Whether you’re into hiking, scenic driving, beautiful parks or anything nature related basically, you will find that these 11 spots, seen on their own or in bulk are enough to really help you “reset” from the city’s noise and stress.

Here are the 11 best nature places to see near New York City:

• Croton Dam .
• Purple Heart Memorial Bridge.
• Fort Montgomery.
• Bear Mountain State Park. 
• Breakneck Ridge. 
• Widow Jane Mine. 
• Rosendale Trestle. 
• Mohonk State Preserve.
• Harriman State Park.
• Palisades Parkway scenic drive.
• Fort Lee Historic Park.
• Bonus: Sterling Forest State Park.

Now I marked these places in the order you can do them, but depending on which of these same locations you wish to visit, you can plot out the locations of each spot and visit them in your own order. 

1) Croton Water Dam:

For a very long time, I’ve seen photos of this place on Instagram and very few actually mentioned the name of it. Once I found out it was called Croton Water Dam and this nature spot was only about 40 miles north of New York City, I had to go there and I did at least 2 times so far. Despite it being a small area to explore, the beauty condensed into that small area is truly spectacular with a man made waterfall that is unlike any I’ve ever seen before.

Now there are 2 access points to Croton Water Dam:

• One from the top view (free to view). Check that out!
• And one from the bottom, which costs $10 to enter and will take you into the small park next to the dam. You’ll see it from the perspective I took this picture of it from to the right.

I recommend seeing this place from both locations. The waterfall in this place is amazing and I put it on my list of the 10 best waterfalls to see in New York State .

2) Sight see around Purple Heart Memorial Bridge (plenty of hiking available):

This beautiful bridge is about an hour north of the city and also close to Croton Water Dam, so if you visit it, getting to the bridge from there is about a 30 minute drive.  While there’s beautiful hiking spots near this bridge and scenic overlooks, you can enjoy just walking over it (it’s free).

Not only that but the scenic drives all around it are well worth exploring too as you can head in at least 3 different directions, all of which will take you through some of New York State’s most beautiful parks and regions. The only thing to really watch out for here is ticks, as well as in the greater New York State in general.

3) Visit Fort Montgomery:

This Fort is located right under the west side area of the Purple Heart Memorial Bridge and if it’s open (I believe after 10 a.m), then it’s worth visiting. There’s a bridge at the lower end of this Fort which will give you a beautiful scenic view of the bridge from below it.

Sadly, I haven’t had a chance to visit this Fort yet because it was closed when I was in this location, but there are walkways near it that’ll allow you to also enjoy beautiful views. Fort Montgomery is also one of my most recommended places for day trips near NYC .

4) Visit Bear Mountain State Park:

Bear Mountain State Park has many beautiful views and is very close to both Fort Montgomery and Purple Heart Memorial Bridge. The hikes in this park are pretty simple and there are many activities there. I’ve visited this park only once, but I still remember how much I enjoyed being there and I know you will too, NYC residents!

5) Go up to Breakneck Rid ge and hike it if you can:

Breakneck Ridge is a popular hiking location, especially to NYC hikers who want to get away (because it’s pretty close to the city). This popular hike is about a 3 mile loop which for the first mile is very hard, so it’s only recommended to check out if you’re in good shape and love hiking.

This place is extremely popular on weekends to visit, so if you’re truly trying to escape the crowd element of NYC, visit this place on a weekday that isn’t a holiday. It’s also one of the best hikes near NYC  (it’s not far from the city). And there’s also other areas nearby ( Hudson Highlands State Park ) to enjoy hikes at.

I rarely visit these kinds of locations on weekends because of the crowds, but if I have no choice, I’ll try to make it happen very early, because then there won’t be as many people, like in Delaware Water Gap (another good spot about 2 hours outside of NYC to visit).

6) Widow Jane Mine:

This place is about 2 hours north of New York City and worth visiting if you don’t really like hiking, but enjoy scenic areas. I’ve been to Widow Jane Mine many times and always enjoy taking friends there.

It’s free to enter the parking area near it, with a 5-10 minute walk to the actual mine. Then there is also another trail nearby which I personally had not taken, since I was only interested in seeing the mine itself. It is best to see this mine on a weekday as you’ll likely find nobody there, and unless you’re scared of dark mines, it’s worth going there during that time, but make sure to bring a flashlight. I have been to Widow Jane Mine several times and enjoy taking a short mini trip there on my way to doing other hikes, which typically involve hiking in the Catskill Mountains after I’m done with this place.

7) Rosendale Trestle (right near Widow Jane Mine):

If you’re going to explore Widow Jane Mine, you need to check out Rosendale Trestle and do the short hike there. It’s a remodeled bridge that was used for trains long ago.  It’ll take you over a beautiful bridge and trail which will have you pass beautiful cave spots that have freezing misty air come out of it. 

There are parking areas near this location and it’s normally not busy there, even on a weekend, so do explore it if you can. And on a completely different subject, I recently visited my second official abandoned trestle in Vancouver Island and I have to say, it was even more beautiful than the one in New York, but trust me, this one is also very beautiful!

8) Mohonk State Preserve:

Mohonk is not far from Widow Jane Mine, and I do highly recommend seeing this nature spot outside of NYC. It is located near interstate 87 which happens to be a very scenic drive in itself ( details on other scenic drives in New York State ).

Here are some important things to know before you go here:

• It costs anywhere from $26 and up per person to enter the park.
• There’s a beautiful hotel in this region with a lake where you can kayak or canoe on.
• There’s a popular hiking trail called the Labyrinth I do recommend checking out. It’s very short, but very challenging and fun to do.
• 4There is a beautiful swimming hole there which is one of the best swimming holes in all of the Catskill Mountains .
• More details about Mohonk Preserve here .

9) Explore Harriman State Park:

I’ve visited Harriman State Park at least 10 times now and I love it. For a simple scenic drive or hikes near NYC , this place is one of the best options around. It’s located about 45 minutes from the George Washington Bridge (if you live in Manhattan) and has some really nice things you can explore.

If you do go to Harriman State Park, here’s a few things I recommend doing:

• Do the 7 Lakes Scenic drive.
• Sight seeing the different lakes there.
• Doing one or more of the hiking trails there (they are fairly short).

This park also has a number of waterfalls (man made and natural) and while overall it is a simple park and there’s nothing really major about it, it’s a great getaway from the city to take in my opinion. People can easily spend an entire day here and have a great time!

10) Drive through the Palisades Parkway and enjoy the nature places there:

I honestly think the Palisades Parkway is one of the most beautiful scenic drives I’ve done near New York City and because it’s so close, with so many exits to see beautiful hiking trails and views, it’s a must see for any NYC resident. It’s literally right outside the G.W. Bridge as you enter NJ from the city.

That drive will actually take you through many of the locations I listed on this article, including the Purple Heart Memorial Bridge and Bear Mountain State Park. But in addition to those places, there’s one that’s even closer and you don’t need to drive 30 minutes or more and it is:

11) Fort L ee Historic Park (great nature place literally next to New York City):

This park is located under the George Washington Bridge, but also runs next to Palisades Parkway. I’ve done a few drives here, and even did a bike ride once from Brooklyn as well. The nature places here are amazing as are the views! There’s also a very popular hike here that intersects with the Long Path hike and it’s known as the Giant Stairs Palisades trail .

12) Sterling Forest State Park:

This is another awesome, often missed nature spot near New York City. It’s a giant forest with many adventures, including hikes, mountain biking, horseback riding, scenic views and much more to explore. Here is a full breakdown of Sterling Forest State Park and what you can do there, but overall, if you want to explore nice spots near New York City, this is definitely a highly recommended one.

Have more time to explore other spots outside NYC? Here’s more places to see:

1) Like I said earlier, if you’re short on time, you’ll find one of these spots will occupy most of your day, but if you’re an active road trip person like me, you may be able to see many of these spots in a single day like I did. I wouldn’t rush though as all of these locations each offer great views and adventures that you should enjoy. 

2) But opposite of this point, if you have time to visit more places, then besides doing all 11 of these spots, check out areas like the Catskills , or spots west of NYC like Watkins Glen State Park . The latter (Watkins Glen) is part of an incredible scenic region in New York State called Finger Lakes which has tons to see and do (it is stunning there).

3) Consider road trips across the eastern United States like this too if you have at least 5 days of free time if you’re looking for ideas of other things to see outside NYC, let me know how many days you have that are free and what you’re looking to see and where and I’ll be sure to provide my list of recommended locations to see. 

Hi I'm Vitaliy, I love nature travel and this blog encapsulates all of my adventures and top recommendations of what to see (and what to avoid).

Learn More Here

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I plan to hike the long trail (RT) from NY to VT on July to September. I will land on JFK from Japan, then I start it.

1. What is the best starting point in NY? 2. How can I get to the starting point from JFK? 3. Please advise me about the important things to complete it.

Hi Tatsuo, sorry for the late response. So I’m looking at the Long Trail you mentioned. It is a VERY long hike that’s nearly 300 miles long and it starts in Massachusetts, not NY (I could be wrong). If you are landing in JFK which is in NY, you need to take a train or car to the starting point in Southern Terminus. From there you will need to find the trail marker which goes through Vermont, and up to Canada. I’ll do a post on this trail to help you, but please make sure you research this trail first before going and prepare properly!

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Adventuring Dreamers

12 Best Places to Stay Outside of New York City in 2024

The Best Places to Stay Outside of NYC When Visiting The City in 2024

Here are the 12 best places to stay outside of New York City when visiting New York. Including what makes each place so special and hotel options to help you with your search.

This article may contain links from our partners. We may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through a link. Please read my privacy policy to learn more about affiliate links and how I keep this blog sustainable.

Trying to find the best place to stay outside of New York City can be a frustrating process…

Especially when considering how many areas surround this iconic city.

Whether you’re visiting NYC but don’t want to stay in the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle, looking for some quieter (or cheaper) alternatives, or have a personal preference to stay outside of city limits, this blog has got you covered.

As someone who has spent over a decade traveling the world and exploring big cities like New York (and who also currently lives right here in NYC), I’ve stayed in a wide variety of places and know exactly what to look for when it comes to finding comfortable accommodations for all budget types. 

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to finding the best place to stay outside of New York City. Way more than a quick Google search will let you know. But don’t worry. I’ve already done the work for you.

In this blog, I’m breaking down the best places to stay outside of New York City.

All of these neighborhoods offer convenient access to New York while providing a more relaxed or suburban atmosphere.

I’ve even broken them down into three categories (budget, mid-range, and luxury) . S o you’re covered no matter what kind of trip you’re looking to book.

Also, if you’re interested in staying in the city but not in Manhattan (where all the chaos spawns), don’t worry . I’ve got you covered, too! I’ve also listed the best accommodations for Brooklyn , Queens, The Bronx, and even Staten Island.

In a rush? These are my favorite best places to stay outside of New York City at a glance:

✨ My favorite unique place to stay outside of New York City— Castle Hotel & Spa in Tarrytown .

✨ My favorite affordable place to stay outside of New York City— The Comfort Inn in Edgewater .

✨ My favorite place to stay in New York City (but outside of Manhattan)— The Collective Paper Factory Hotel in Astoria, Queens .

Best places to stay outside of New York City

Jersey city, nj.

Jersey City is located across the Hudson River in New Jersey. It’s rapidly becoming a popular neighborhood for people working in Manhattan because of its extremely short commute. This makes it great for visitors who want to stay outside of New York City, too! 

The area offers a scenic waterfront walkway, parks, and a variety of restaurants and museums . S o there’s always plenty to do. Jersey City is one of the best places to stay outside of New York City, and it’s way more affordable than Manhattan.

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Distance and transportation to NYC

Jersey City is a quick 20-minute commute (or less) from Manhattan using the PATH, aka the Port Authority Trans-Hudson , which is the train system that transports people around New Jersey as well as Lower Manhattan.

In fact, from Jersey City, you’re even closer to some New York City attractions than even the NYC locals. For instance, it only takes six minutes to get from the Exchange Place station in Jersey City to the World Trade Center in NYC. From there, it’s simple to connect to the subway and explore other parts of the city.

What makes Jersey City special?

Charming. Convenient. Beautiful. 

Jersey City‘s prime location near NYC, combined with its vibrant atmosphere, creates a captivating blend of urban energy and relaxed charm. It’s the perfect balance for those who don’t want to be stuck in the hustle and bustle of downtown life for the entire trip. 

The city offers a picturesque waterfront with stunning views of the Hudson River and a bustling promenade dotted with parks, restaurants, and museums. The convenient access to Manhattan via various transportation options, including the PATH, makes it an ideal base for exploring the Big Apple while enjoying the affordability and comfort of Jersey City. 

Who would enjoy this location the most?

Jersey City is a great area for travelers interested in exploring the sights of Lower Manhattan .  

With its advantageous proximity to the city and affordable rates, this area offers a compelling alternative to staying directly in the heart of the city. 

Where to stay in Jersey City?

Best budget hotel — the holland.

This waterfront hotel may not look like much from the outside, but it’s actually a hidden gem. With free breakfast, great pricing, friendly staff, and a top-notch view of the Manhattan skyline, what more could you ask for? Click here to learn more about The Holland Hotel .

Best Mid-Range Hotel — Residence Inn by Marriott

The Residence Inn by Marriott in Jersey City is a modern, Riverfront hotel that comes complete with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Booking includes free breakfast and access to a fitness center. Plus, there’s a snazzy hotel bar to chill at after your day of adventures.

Edgewater, NJ

Edgewater is another charming borough in New Jersey across the Hudson River. Only where Jersey City is right across the river from Lower Manhattan, Edgewater is across the water from Upper Manhattan.

This quaint town offers a serene and picturesque retreat and is one of the best places to stay right outside of New York City.  

Formerly a bustling factory town, Edgewater now exudes a quieter ambiance. It’s great for those who desire proximity to the city without the bustling urban atmosphere.

The highlight of staying in Edgewater is undoubtedly the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. It’s a sight you don’t get when you’re stuck in between buildings in the middle of the dense concrete jungle. 

While enjoying the view, visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s own attractions, such as playing tennis at Binghamton Racquet Club or strolling along the scenic Hudson River Waterfront Trail.

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Edgewater is right across the river from Manhattan and is in eyesight from the Eastern side of the Hudson. The most convenient route to Manhattan from Edgewater is via the ferry, which offers a swift 15-minute journey from Edgewater to Pier 79 in Midtown Manhattan.

If you do choose to use the ferry to get across the water, keep an eye on the Edgewater Ferry Landing schedule , as it currently only runs during commuter hours on weekdays during the day.

What makes Edgewater special?

Breathtaking views of New York City. It’s the best of both worlds.

Nestled on the banks of the Hudson River, this tiny borough offers breathtaking views of the iconic Manhattan skyline. It’s a picturesque backdrop for every moment spent here.

Beyond the captivating scenery, Edgewater presents a unique blend of tranquility and convenience.  

Who wouldn’t want to stay in a place that offers the best of both worlds? Visitors who stay in Edgewater can escape the bustling city while still enjoying easy access to Manhattan via a quick ferry ride. 

Edgewater is for those who want to stay in a quaint town but still have easy access to Manhattan. 

It’s one of the best places to stay outside of New York City for those who are visiting during the weekdays, doesn’t need to access the city during the weekends or at night, and would enjoy a 15-minute ferry ride across the river. 

Where to stay in Edgewater?

Best mid-range hotel — the comfort inn edgewater on hudson river.

Unpack your bags, open your curtains, and look out across your waterfront view to the gorgeous Manhattan skyline. The Comfort Inn in Edgewater is less than 10 miles from downtown Manhattan and only 2 miles away from Uptown. Located next to Trader Joe’s and a plethora of restaurants, it’s a great hotel for those who are looking for the best place to stay outside of New York City.

Rutherford, NJ

Rutherford is a thriving city in New Jersey that is a fantastic choice for travelers looking for the best place to stay outside of New York City. 

The city has captured the hearts of many with its vibrant sporting events, engaging performing arts scene, and an overload of excellent restaurants. 

Families, in particular, appreciate Rutherford’s peaceful and calm atmosphere, making it an ideal suburban retreat.  

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While having access to a car may be useful for navigating Rutherford’s expansive area, the New Jersey Transit train is the best option to get into New York City. Rutherford is a quick 30-minute commute to Penn Station in Midtown, Manhattan via the New Jersey Transit . So accessing the city is quick and simple. Travelers can then easily explore other parts of the city via the Subway or Amtrak.

What makes Rutherford special?

Great restaurants. Affordable. Convenient.

Rutherford boasts a dynamic cultural scene that goes beyond its proximity to New York City. The abundance of good restaurants satisfies culinary enthusiasts, while the peaceful and calm ambiance attracts families seeking a tranquil retreat. With convenient access to New York City via the New Jersey Transit, Rutherford provides a perfect blend of comfort, affordability, and proximity. Making it a remarkable destination for visitors seeking a memorable travel experience.

If you’re looking for simplicity and comfort, Rutherford is the right choice for you. It’s the best place to stay outside of New York City for those who still want to be close enough to zip Downtown. Here, you’ll still get to see a show on Broadway, enjoy a classy dinner at a restaurant in Hell’s Kitchen, or check out one of NYC’s famous attractions and be there within an hour.

Where to stay in Rutherford?

Best mid-range hotel — homewood suites by hilton.

Homewood Suites by Hilton is a contemporary hotel that is designed for extended stays, so you know that it’s set up to be more comfortable than your standard mid-range hotel. They also offer access to a pool, fitness center, and laundry service and have a shuttle to help you get to and from the hotel.

Fort Lee, NJ

Fort Lee is situated across the George Washington Bridge from New York. I can actually see the town when I walk my dogs along the Hudson near my Manhattan apartment—that’s how close it is to the city.

However, don’t be fooled. This little town offers a completely different vibe than Manhattan and is one of the best places to stay outside of New York City. 

Fort Lee boasts easy access to NYC from the I-95 and showcases stunning waterfront areas along the Hudson River.

If you’re visiting in the fall, you will be absolutely blown away by the autumn colors coming from the trees dotting the water . 

While heavy traffic is a characteristic of the area due to its role as a major route in and out of the city, this is still one of the best places to stay outside of New York City.

The neighborhood’s diverse community includes a vibrant Koreatown, where visitors can indulge in excellent cuisine and shopping. Alongside the Korean population, Fort Lee is home to Russian, Italian, and Greek communities. The town reflects a rich immigrant history, much like NYC.

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Transportation options from Fort Lee to Manhattan are abundant, with many hotels offering shuttle services to Midtown. Alternatively, driving, taking a bus, or opting for the subway train are also viable choices.

This is another great place where it could be beneficial to have a car. It’s one more option to get into the city. And it gives you the freedom to explore the rest of Fort Lee and the surrounding areas.

What makes Fort Lee special?

Stunning river views. Rich history. Multicultural.

Set against the Hudson River, Fort Lee provides stunning views and a serene ambiance. The area is rich in history and close to Manhattan. It’s a special place where visitors can immerse themselves in a dynamic and multicultural environment while enjoying easy access to the bustling attractions of New York City.

Fort Lee is a great option for those who want to stay in a more affordable area that is still close to the heart of New York City.

Where to stay in Fort Lee?

Best budget hotel — doubletree by hilton.

The DoubleTree by Hilton is located across the NY/NJ border on the edge of Fort Lee. In addition to being a comfortable and affordable hotel that’s super close to Manhattan, DoubleTree also offers a shuttle service to the NYC downtown area.

Best Mid-Range Hotel — Hyatt Place

The Hyatt offers everything you’d expect at a mid-range hotel. There are clean and comfortable rooms, friendly staff, a fitness center, and a hotel bar and restaurant. They also offer a bag service. So feel free to drop off your belongings and go explore while waiting for your room to become available.

New Rochelle, NY

Nestled in Westchester County, the small city of New Rochelle offers a close-knit and diverse community. It’s a great area for couples to visit . New Rochelle offers a relaxing weekend getaway with plenty of restaurants and shops to explore. 

The town has a laid-back vibe that is great for travelers who enjoy going somewhere new but don’t want to get sucked into the chaos of the city.

As new restaurants sprout up, the region embraces a growing culinary scene, great for food lovers. With its cool parks catering to both adults and kids, New Rochelle proves to be a compelling choice for those considering the best places to stay outside of New York City.

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New Rochelle is about 20 miles north of Midtown, Manhattan. It takes between 40 minutes and an hour to commute, either by train or car. Located outside of the city, New Rochelle also provides easy exploration to neighboring towns for those who are interested in seeing more of New York than NYC.

What makes New Rochelle special?

Laid back. Convenient. Relaxing.

New Rochelle is a laid-back community with plenty to do. It’s also close to the city, making it a great place to stay outside of New York City, both for those who are visiting NYC and don’t want to stay in Manhattan and for those who live in NYC and want to get away for a relaxing weekend.

New Rochelle is a great place for families, foodies, or couples who are looking to get away.

Where to stay in New Rochelle?

Best budget hotel — radisson hotel.

The Radisson Hotel in New Rochelle offers comfort at an affordable price. It’s located less than a mile from the beach and about an hour’s drive from downtown Manhattan.

If you’re looking for comfort at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with booking a Hilton or Marriott. The Residence Inn in New Rochelle is a contemporary hotel that offers a fitness center, outdoor pool, outdoor BBQs, and even grocery delivery service.

Yonkers, NY

Escape the hustle and bustle of New York City and discover the hidden gem of Yonkers, north of the Bronx. This inner suburb offers a compelling alternative for visitors seeking a quieter retreat while maintaining easy access to the vibrant attractions of Manhattan. 

This place is absolutely picturesque. Basically, it’s a serene oasis positioned against the Hudson River, away from the urban jungle. 

Just like NYC, Yonkers is rich in cultural heritage. Explore the city’s landmarks, such as the Hudson River Museum, Untermyer Gardens, and Philipse Manor Hall. And don’t forget to indulge in the vibrant culinary scene while you’re here. 

Yonkers is one of the best places to stay outside of New York City. It offers a peaceful and fulfilling experience that combines the best of both worlds.

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Yonkers is a mere 45 minutes away from the heart of Manhattan via the Metro-North train. This train will take you straight to Grand Central Terminal. From there, the entire city is at your fingertips either via the Subway or a taxi.

While having a car allows you to explore Yonkers and its surrounding areas more extensively, it’s not required for this neighborhood, and you can totally go car-free. The Metro-North train route offers seamless connections to other towns. So you’ll have the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and attractions of the region effortlessly.

What makes Yonkers special?

Close to the city. Rich with history. Lots to do.

Yonkers is parallel with New Rochelle as the closest New York town outside of NYC. And it offers a stunning picturesque landscape along the Hudson River.

Here, you’ll find breathtaking views and experience a tranquil retreat while you explore its parks and waterfront areas.

The city also takes pride in its rich cultural and historical heritage . Landmarks like the Hudson River Museum, Untermyer Gardens, and Philipse Manor Hall provide enriching experiences. 

With its combination of accessibility, natural beauty, cultural attractions, culinary delights, and family-friendly environment, Yonkers truly holds a special place for visitors seeking an unforgettable experience outside of New York City.

Yonkers is made for those who want to visit New York City, one of the biggest cities in the world, but stay in a place that has a small-town feel.

Where to stay in Yonkers?

Best mid-range hotel — hampton inn & suites yonkers – westchester.

This Hampton Inn & Suites is conveniently located a mile from Interstate 87, offers down-to-earth rooms, and comes complete with free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy complimentary perks like parking and a hot breakfast buffet, along with access to an indoor pool, fitness center, and a 24-hour convenience store inside the lobby.

Tarrytown (Sleepy Hollow), NY

The historic Tarrytown is a little further away from the city than the other locations on this list. But it’s still one of the best places to stay outside of New York City. 

Tarrytown is an attraction all on its own because this is the historic neighborhood where the Legend of Sleepy Hollow takes place. Because of this, I highly recommend staying in Tarrytown in October when the little city is decked out for Halloween.

Tarrytown offers a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm, making it a compelling destination for visitors. 

Nestled along the scenic Hudson River, Tarrytown is renowned for its rich historical heritage . Famous landmarks include the legendary Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and the iconic Lyndhurst mansion. 

Here, history enthusiasts can explore the captivating tales of Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and delve into the region’s colonial past. 

The town’s picturesque Main Street is lined with quaint shops, cozy cafes, and art galleries. It’s a delightful atmosphere for leisurely strolls and shopping. 

Tarrytown’s surrounding natural landscapes, including the beautiful Rockefeller State Park Preserve, offer ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hiking, biking, and picnicking. 

With its perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and vibrant community, Tarrytown promises a memorable and immersive experience for all who visit.

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NYC can be accessed from Tarrytown by either train or car. So go ahead and pick your preferred method of transportation. Either way, Tarrytown is about 30 miles outside of the city and will take about an hour to reach midtown.

What makes Tarrytown special?

History. Legend. Spookiness.

It’s a combination of the history, the kooky spookiness, and the natural beauty that surrounds the city that makes Tarrytown a special place to visit and to stay when visiting New York.

Tarrytown is one of the best places to stay outside of New York City for travelers who want to be close to the Big Apple but who also want to explore some other areas of New York soaked in history and stay in a town with a small-town vibe. 

This location is especially great for those who love to celebrate Halloween, love literature, or want to spend a part of their trip exploring the small towns of southern New York or the beautiful nature that surrounds the area.

Where to stay in Tarrytown?

Best budget hotel — sleepy hollow hotel.

Nestled by the Hudson River and off Interstate 287, the Sleepy Hollow Hotel is an upscale hotel that offers bright and relaxed rooms at an affordable price. Guests can enjoy a polished restaurant with a fireplace, terrace, and stylish lounge, as well as access to a 24-hour fitness center and indoor pool.

Best Mid-Range Hotel — Tarrytown House Estate on the Hudson

Possibly the most unique hotel on this list, the Tarrytown House Estate sends you back in time as you stay in an iconic mansion from the year 1840. The elegant accommodations are spread across multiple buildings. They feature a variety of options, from traditional hotel rooms to luxurious Georgian-style rooms within the historic mansion. 

All rooms offer complimentary amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffeemakers. Some mansion rooms even boast a charming patio. There’s also a tavern-style restaurant and bar serving American cuisine. And additional amenities include a spa, fitness center, and both indoor and outdoor pools.

Best Luxury Hotel — Castle Hotel & Spa

Castle Hotel & Spa is perched atop a 19th-century Norman-style castle with captivating views of the Hudson River. This luxurious hotel offers a prime location a mile from I-287 and the Tarrytown rail station. And it’s also a convenient 30-mile distance from New York City.

Castle Hotel & Spa’s elegantly appointed rooms showcase original art and provide modern amenities. Some suites even feature 4-poster beds and wood-burning fireplaces.

Indulge in exquisite French cuisine at the refined on-site restaurant. Pamper yourself at the upscale spa. Unwind at the pool or outdoor hot tub. And stay active at the fitness center. Sports courts and a scenic walking trail are also available for guests’ enjoyment. As well as invigorating yoga classes.

Scarsdale, NY

Welcome to the richest town on the East Coast. With its average household income of $452,000, this picturesque town offers a glimpse into the epitome of luxury living. 

Scarsdale boasts charming boutiques, multimillion-dollar estate-like homes, and top-rated schools, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a little extravagance. 

Explore this affluent town and immerse yourself in its tranquil village atmosphere, surrounded by architectural elegance and natural beauty.

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Located almost 30 miles outside of the city, this is one destination you will want to have access to a car for. It’s a 48-minute drive down the 87 to get to the heart of Manhattan. So it’s not an ideal place for those looking to visit the city. 

For those looking to get out of the city, however, this might be the best little staycation spot. It will get you out of city living and rejuvenate you with some well-deserved relaxation.

What makes Scarsdale special?

Architecture. Luxury. Serenity.

Explore the stunning architecture and luxurious homes that line Scarsdale’s streets. Visitors can take leisurely walks through the charming village center, browse upscale boutiques, and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

Indulge in the town’s high-end dining options, visit nearby parks, and immerse yourself in the town’s rich history and culture. Overall, a visit to Scarsdale provides a glimpse into a world of wealth, elegance, and relaxation . It offers a unique vacation experience for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful escape.

If you’re someone who appreciates upscale living, luxury experiences, and a tranquil suburban atmosphere, Scarsdale might be exactly what you’re looking for. Those who have an interest in exploring wealthy communities, architectural beauty, and exquisite homes will find Scarsdale fascinating. 

If you’re looking for a slower-paced vacation with ample opportunities for leisurely strolls, shopping, and fine dining, then you’ve found your premier destination in the sophistication of Scarsdale.

Where to stay in Scarsdale?

Best luxury accommodations — vrbo.

Scarsdale is the pinnacle of luxury neighborhoods. There are no hotels in this quiet little town—the closest that you’ll find is a little further north in White Plains. However, you can find some incredible vacation rentals here. I highly recommend searching VRBO if Scarsdale sounds like the perfect destination for your vacation.

Best places to stay outside of Manhattan but still in New York City limits

Best place to stay in queens: astoria.

Astoria is an area in New York City that has more of a residential feel. It’s lined with townhouses and full of parks, unique shops, and restaurants, and is a short train ride away from the heart of Manhattan. 

Astoria also has a great little downtown area for those who want to feel the New York City vibes but don’t want to venture into the center of the concrete jungle. 

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What makes Astoria special?

Vibrant. Entertaining. Museums.

Astoria is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood filled with rich cultural heritage. This multicultural tapestry creates a unique atmosphere, different from anywhere else in the city. Explore a wide range of cuisines from Greek and Middle Eastern to Latin American and Asian. 

Astoria is also known for its thriving arts and entertainment scene. The neighborhood boasts many galleries, theaters, and music venues that showcase local talent. The Museum of Moving Image is here, and I highly recommend checking that out.

The proximity to waterfront parks and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline provide opportunities for leisurely walks, picnics, and outdoor activities. 

Astoria is an absolute haven for food enthusiasts who enjoy exploring diverse culinary scenes.  

From avid foodies seeking authentic international cuisines to those with an adventurous palate eager to try new flavors, Astoria offers an abundance of dining options that cater to various tastes. Art lovers, theater enthusiasts, and music aficionados will also find themselves immersed in the neighborhood’s vibrant artistic offerings. 

Where to stay in Astoria?

Best budget hotel — the collective paper factory hotel.

Situated next to the vibrant Kaufman Arts District, this trendy hotel occupies a converted paper factory , exuding an industrial-chic vibe. The rooms here are built with high ceilings and offer modern accommodations. 

The Collective Paper Factory Hotel also offers amenities, including a restaurant, coffee shop, games room, event space, and meeting rooms, ensuring a well-rounded experience for guests.

Best Mid-Range Hotel — The Modernist Hotel

The Modernist comes equipped with everything you’d need in a modern hotel room. Plus, it’s conveniently located near LaGuardia Airport, close to the Museum of Moving Image, and only 15 minutes to downtown Manhattan. Situated on the border of Astoria and Long Island City, this hotel is close to plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

Best place to stay in the Bronx: Morris Park

For adventurous souls seeking vibrant and flavorful experiences, Morris Park in the Bronx is a total hidden gem. 

With a vibrant Italian community, this neighborhood is a paradise for food lovers, offering tantalizing bakeries and mouthwatering restaurants.  

It’s also the Bronx’s cleanest neighborhood, which, you know, is pretty neat. 

Morris Park is blessed with an array of parks and green spaces that beckon adventurous spirits to explore its natural beauty. It is truly one of the best places to stay outside of Manhattan, New York City.

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What makes Morris Park special?

Warmth. Congeniality. Culinary adventures.

Experience the vibrant and welcoming spirit of Morris Park in the Bronx, a neighborhood that stands out for its congeniality and warmth. Immerse yourself in the rich Italian-American heritage of Morris Park, where you can embark on a delightful culinary adventure. From traditional pizzerias to mouthwatering bakeries and candy stores, these local establishments have been serving up authentic flavors for generations.

As you wander through the streets, you’ll notice the timeless streetscape adorned with brick and vinyl-sided houses, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for families and adventurers alike.

Morris Park also boasts an impressive safety record, ranking it among the safest neighborhoods in New York City. This sense of security allows you to explore with peace of mind and embrace the local culture without hesitation.

Morris Park is a neighborhood that caters to a variety of visitors. Food enthusiasts can indulge in delightful culinary experiences with pizzerias, bakeries, and candy stores. History and culture buffs can explore the rich Italian-American heritage. Families and leisure seekers will find a family-friendly atmosphere with parks and cultural events. 

Morris Park welcomes everyone, offering something for every interest. All of this to say, it’s one of the best places you can stay outside of Manhattan, New York City.

Where to stay in Morris Park?

Best mid-range hotel — residence inn by marriott new york the bronx at metro center atrium.

The Residence Inn in Morris Park in the Bronx is a contemporary hotel situated three miles from both the iconic Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden. These stylish accommodations offer all modern amenities and is located with easy access to get to Manhattan or anywhere else in the city. A bonus about this location is the modern fireplace in the lobby and the patio, complete with a firepit that creates a relaxing atmosphere.

Best place to stay in Brooklyn: Sunset Park

Like all of New York City, Sunset Park in Brooklyn is also a tapestry of cultures woven into a single neighborhood.

Sunset Park is a treasure trove of cultural experiences and hidden gems waiting to be discovered, which is what makes it one of the best places to stay outside of Manhattan, even though it’s still within New York City limits.

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What makes Sunset Park special?

Chinatown. Cemeteries. Craft spirits.

Sunset Park boasts a bustling Chinatown, where noodle shops and dim sum spots tempt the taste buds. There’s also a diverse Latinx community, which adds to the neighborhood’s cultural richness. 

Atop a leafy hill, Sunset Park provides breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty. And here, you can find a serene escape from the bustling city below. 

The nearby Green-Wood Cemetery serves as the eternal resting place for renowned New Yorkers, showcasing a historical and contemplative atmosphere. 

Along the waterfront, the Industry City warehouse complex serves as a hub for creative industries while also enticing locals with a variety of artisanal eateries and craft spirits. 

Like those who call Sunset Park home, this neighborhood in Brooklyn appeals to a wide range of people. But it’s a particularly special place to stay for those who value multicultural experiences, urban exploration, and a vibrant local atmosphere. 

Where to stay in Sunset Park?

Best mid-range hotel — liberty view brooklyn hotel.

Sure, the Liberty View Hotel is a nice, modern facility that is comfortable with all the amenities you need, like free Wi-Fi and free breakfast, but that’s not what makes this place so cool. Located in the heart of Sunset Park, the Liberty View is across the street from the historic Green-Wood Cemetary, built in 1883.  

It’s also within walking distance to Sunset Park, which the neighborhood is named after, and is a short train ride away from the rest of New York City.

Best place to stay in Staten Island: St. George

Often considered the “borough of parks” because of the sheer number of natural green areas that dot this part of New York City, Staten Island is nothing like the rest of NYC.

It’s a great place to stay for those who aren’t looking to stay outside of New York City but do want to be away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.

St. George is a historic neighborhood on the northern end of the Island. It’s one of the primary gateways for folks traveling between the Island and the rest of the city.

This vibrant little neighborhood is extremely walkable and is filled with a diverse range of things to do, including visiting local businesses and shops, fine dining, perusing art galleries, and there’s even an electric club scene.

The historic district stands out with its elegant and artful 19th-century homes, creating a charming and sought-after residential area.

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Distance from NYC

One of St. George’s major draws is its proximity to Manhattan. All it takes is a 25-minute ride on the free Staten Island ferry, and you’ll end up at the southern tip of New York City’s busiest borough. The ferry picks you up at St. George and will drop you off near Battery Park. 

What makes St. Goerge special?

Historic. Charming. Convenient.

St. George’s historic district stands out from the crowd with its elegant and artful 19th-century homes that add an air of charm to the neighborhood. You’ll almost feel as though you’ve been transferred back in time as you walk past large Victorian-style houses that would be hard to find anywhere else in the city. 

St. George’s close location to Manhattan also makes this neighborhood super convenient for those looking to visit attractions in New York City but want to stay outside of the busiest areas in the city.

St. George is a great place to stay for those who want to stay out of the hustle and bustle of the city, but still plan on doing a lot of things in Manhattan. It only takes 30 minutes to get to downtown Manhattan from here, which is much faster than it takes most commuters in other areas in the city.

Where to stay in St. George?

Best budget accommodations — vrbo.

Similar to Scarsdale, St. George doesn’t have much in the way of hotels. But that doesn’t mean you can’t stay there. In fact, there are several highly rated vacation rentals in St. George on VRBO that will have you feeling comfortable and luxurious at half the cost of a hotel room.

Best place to stay outside of New York City FAQ

Now that we’ve talked about some of the best places to stay outside of New York City let’s discuss a few frequently asked questions.

Is it better to stay in Manhattan or outside of New York City?

Whether you decide to stay in Manhattan or outside of New York City is completely dependent on what kind of trip fits your needs the best. There is no better way, just different options that you can pick from to find the best option for you .

Staying inside Manhattan has its perks because you’re close to all the tourist attractions, as well as the financial district and business centers of the city. However, you’ll also be fighting against crowds, dealing with loud streets, and overall combating the chaos that comes with nearly 2 million people squished together in 22 square miles of space. 

So, if you prefer a more relaxing environment, want a larger hotel room for a cheaper cost, or are looking for a more charming neighborhood and don’t mind a bit of a commute to get to the attractions that make New York City so famous, then staying outside of Manhattan might be a better choice for your preferences.

What hotels outside of New York City have a shuttle service?

The DoubleTree by Hilton in Fort Lee is located on the other side of the George Washington Bridge, and they offer a shuttle service to take you into the city. The service picks up at the Fort Lee hotel location and drops off at the Hilton in Manhattan. 

The Hampton Inn & Suites in Yonkers doesn’t offer a shuttle service directly to the city, but they do offer a service that drops off at the nearby train stations, so you can easily commute into town from there.

If you’re not sure whether or not your hotel offers a shuttle service, you can always call and ask the concierge to give you your best options for getting into the city from where you’re staying. 

Even if your hotel doesn’t offer a shuttle, there are plenty of modes of public transportation that can get you into the city, sometimes even cheaper, faster, and easier than taking a hotel shuttle.

Final thoughts on the best place to stay outside of New York City

Finding the best place to stay outside of New York City can be a daunting task, given the numerous options available. 

I hope this article helped you narrow down your search so that you can find the accommodations that are right for you. 

Whether you’re seeking a quieter retreat that simply has access to the big city or are needing to be as close to the city limits as you can get (without actually crossing the line), there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Additional resources for those looking for the best place to stay outside of New York City:

Ready to book your trip.

Here are a few helpful services:

Booking.com | Find a comfy place to lay your head after a full day of adventuring.

Vrbo | If you’re looking for a more homey vibe, these rental homes might do the trick.

Expedia | Whether you’re looking for some wheels or a flight, you can find a way to get to your destination here.

Get Your Guide | Find local attractions and tours and book tickets to your excursions.

Viator | Another great resource for local attractions and tours.

TSA | If you’re flying, check out the TSA page to make sure that you pack to TSA regulations.

New York City Attraction Pass | Save 40% at 5 major New York City attractions, including the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty.

World Nomads Travel Insurance | Feel safe while traveling with simple and flexible travel insurance.

Heading to New York City soon? Check out the 72 Best Things To Do In NYC At Night .

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10 Incredible Museums Outside Of New York City That Are Worth A Trip

• Travelers looking for top museums outside of NYC should visit the Antique Boat Museum in Clayton, featuring over 320 unique boats and boat-related artifacts.
• The Dr. Best House and Medical Museum in Middleburgh is a time capsule of medicine's past, with an extensive collection of medical equipment and everyday items.
• For sports enthusiasts, the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota showcases the heritage of boxing and has famous boxers like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson in its Hall of Fame.

New York City is a favorite among travelers who adore the metropolis for its cornerstone landmarks, world-famous NYC skyscrapers , and world-class museums. In fact, many travelers argue that The Big Apple is one of the American cities with the best museums !

Truthfully, it's hard to doubt the city's extensive collection of comprehensive and top-rated museums; however, the state of New York boasts an array of museums that may pique plenty of travelers' interests.

Of course, New York State is full of places to see fall foliage and leaves changing their colors . The Big Apple itself is one of those spots, too. But that's what all the tourists are doing during the autumn - why not break away, leave the concrete jungle, and check out some of the best museums in New York State outside the Big Apple?

Curious travelers with eager minds can find a collection of incredible museums outside of New York City and throughout The Empire State! Here are some of the must-see establishments for those looking for the top museums outside NYC to visit.

Related: Going Under: Here Are 10 Of The Best Submarine Museums In The US

Antique Boat Museum

On the Thousand Islands on the St. Lawrence River (which is great to visit) in Clayton, the Antique Boat Museum is a premier freshwater boating museum in North America. This museum outside NYC houses the largest collection of artifacts and displays dedicated to recreational boating in North America, featuring over 320 unique boats and boat-related artifacts on display.

This unique museum aims to educate visitors about the importance of boating throughout the history of the continent, especially within the St. Lawrence River. There are over 150 years worth of boating history to explore at Clayton's Antique Boat Museum!

• Location: Clayton
• Address: 750 Mary St, Clayton, NY 13624, United States

Dr. Best House And Medical Museum

The Dr. Best House and Medical Museum in Schoharie County's town of Middleburgh is a time capsule of medicine's past. This historic home once belonged to two local doctors: Dr. Christopher S. Best and his son, Dr. Duncan L. Best.

As avid contributors to their community, it was Duncan's idea to bequeath the family home to the Middleburgh Library in 1991 as a public medical exhibit. Today, those who visit this unique museum will see an extensive collection of medical equipment mixed with everyday home items like clothing and quilts.

The house is also popular among paranormal enthusiasts due to its paranormal activities and is part of the New York State Haunted History Trail. The site is one of the most haunted places in New York State to visit on a spooky road trip - just in time for Halloween!

• Location: Middleburgh
• Address: 1568 Clauverwie Rd, Middleburgh, NY 12122, United States

Guided tours are offered year-round at this Middleburgh museum.

International Boxing Hall Of Fame

Sports like baseball and basketball have their respective hall of fames, so it's only fair to dedicate a Hall of Fame to the sport of boxing.

Located in Canastota (approximately 20 minutes from Syracuse), the International Boxing Hall of Fame is keen on preserving the heritage of this storied sport while hosting a museum dedicated to boxers, trainers, and other contributors to boxing.

Since its opening in 1989, influential figures in the sport have been inducted into the Hall of Fame, including famous boxers like Muhammad "Greatest of All Time" Ali and Mike Tyson. Today, it's among the most popular museums outside of New York City to visit.

• Location: Canastota
• Address: 360 N Peterboro St, Canastota, NY 13032, United States

Groups of 10 or more people visiting the museum will receive $1 off per person!

RELATED: The Vessel: How To Visit New York's Stunning Architectural Overlook

JELL-O Gallery Museum

Operated by the Le Roy Historica Society, the JELL-O Gallery Museum is dedicated to "America's Most Famous Dessert." Travelers can discover the humble origins of this gelatine dessert, which started with carpenter Pearle Wait and his creation of a fruit-flavored gelatine dessert for his wife in 1897 .

One of the best museums near NYC to visit, the establishment features a collection of JELL-O-related artifacts and memorabilia, from spoons to package inserts, as well as molds and advertising art!

• Location: Le Roy
• Address: 23 E Main St, Le Roy, NY 14482, United States

Interested in taking a tour as a group? Reservations are needed before touring the JELL-O Gallery museum with a group.

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

It's no coincidence that the Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum is found in Jamestown, New York; it's home to comedic legend Lucille Ball! For over two decades, the Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz Museum welcomed visitors to celebrate the legacies of the "First Couple of Comedy."

Fans visiting this vibrant museum can admire recreated studio sets from the iconic show, I Love Lucy, and check out a collection of the shows' props and costumes. Plenty of gems await the avid I Love Lucy fan at this museum, including rare footage and exclusive memorabilia from the gift shop!

• Location: Jamestown
• Address: 2 W 3rd St, Jamestown, NY 14701, United States

Motorcyclepedia Museum

Newburgh's Gerald and Ted Doering managed to collect over 650 motorcycles over a combined period of 80 years ! The Motorcyclepedia Museum is a chance for travelers to see some of the world's iconic bikes, with galleries dedicated to bikes from Harley-Davidson, Chopper City, and more.

Travelers can even find bike-related artifacts, scooters, military bikes, British motorcycles, and vintage rides at the Motorcyclepedia Museum! Visitors can explore the evolution of the motorcycle and its history, as it features motorcycles built since 1897. It's easily one of the best museums near New York City for motorbike fanatics, hands down.

• L ocation: Orange
• Address: 250 Lake St, Newburgh, NY 12550, United States

RELATED: 18 Most Beautiful Small Towns In Upstate New York

Museum Of The Earth

There are tons of destinations in Europe for science lovers , but who knew that New York State also has one? Art and science come together at Ithaca's Museum of the Earth, taking visitors on a journey through 4.5 billion years of natural history.

For over 20 years, the Museum of the Earth has used interactive displays and exhibits to educate visitors about the Earth's past, present, and possible future.

Visitors of this museum will soon realize (if they hadn't already) that science is cool, especially with the museum's Hyde Park mastodon (a nearly-complete skeleton of the mighty American mastodon), the 44-foot skeleton of Right Whale #2030, cave-like glacier exhibit!

• L ocation: Northwest Ithaca
• Address: 1259 Trumansburg Rd, Ithaca, NY 14850, United States

The National Bottle Museum

Humans often overlook everyday objects, such as a glass bottle. Despite its simplicity, making bottles can be considered an art with a history worth exploring. Curious travelers can explore the magic (and history) of bottlemaking at The National Bottle Museum in Ballston Spa!

The mission of this unique museum is to preserve, educate, and research items related to bottlemaking while showcasing its importance and history. Upon visiting, it'll be hard to ignore the museum's wall of bottles on the first floor ( which is made up of over 3,000 bottles of varying shapes and colors)!

During one's visit, visitors can easily delve deeper into bottlemaking history and check out the museum's bottle-related exhibits, like its collection of Ballston Spa bottles and Coca-Cola bottles (which come from different bottling plants across the US).

• L ocation: Ballston Spa
• Address: 76 Milton Ave, Ballston Spa, NY 12020, United States

RELATED: Historic Empire State: 10 Oldest Towns In New York State

Salt Museum

The Salt Museum on the shores of Onondaga Lake highlights the value of salt, a commodity that was once manufactured in Syracuse to be supplied for the entire country! Through comprehensive interpretations and exhibits, curious visitors can learn about the Onondaga salt manufacturing industry that was in operation until the 1920s.

While here, visitors can also remark on vintage artifacts like an original boiling block (where brine transformed into salt), kettles, wooden barrels, and other equipment used to make salt.

• L ocation: Salina, New York
• Address: 106 Lake Dr, Liverpool, NY 13088, United States

Admission to the Salt Museum is free , though tours (of up to 30 students or adults) are provided at a cost of $50 per tour. Tours are often available from May to October, and advanced reservations (which can be made through phone or email) are required. For more information, please visit the Onondaga County Parks' website .

Corning Museum Of Glass

For its 100th anniversary, the Corning Glass Works constructed the Corning Museum of Glass in 1951. This non-profit museum was dedicated to glass and all its wonders.

Today, the Corning Museum of Glass houses the world's most comprehensive collection of glass, showcasing the art, history, culture, and science of this everyday material. Guests can admire the glint and glamor of the museum's displays, which feature over 50,000 objects made of glass and represent a history of over 3,500 years!

• Location: Corning
• Address: 1 Museum Way, Corning, NY 14830, United States

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Wedding bouquet outside city hall - New York City Forum

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5 replies to this topic

FWIW, my uncle and his partner married at the Worth Steet Marriage Bureau in January, and there was no flower vendor outside at that time.

https://cdn.cms.prod.nypr.digital/gothamistgallery/2017/1/31/0982ea568012817wholefoods-39-jpg.jpeg

Pop by there after you check into your hotel to find out what flowers they expect closes to your wedding day & to make sure that they could have a bouquet ready for you at 9 AM on your wedding morning.

Are you using a photographer we are also getting married May 3rd and looking for reasonable price photographer

We have booked Jasmine photos. They have good reviews on here and not too expensive x

There appear to be a couple of floral shops nearby the Wedding Bureau https://maps.app.goo.gl/XDgz7bu5skEBi6vo9

Due to the season and current events activity around the courthouse and Collect Pond Park, I'm not sure that street vendors would be present in the area at this time.

I'd ask the photographer if he knows the current situation.

It might be simpler to find something close to where you are staying.

Congratulations!

We were there 2 weeks ago, I remember seeing someone selling flowers outside on the day we went for the ceremony but not the day we picked up the license - although the weather was horrific that day.

If I remember correctly you could also buy floral items inside as well but I could not tell you what the quality or price was like but might be okay if you don't find anything else. You could always have a look at this when you visit to pickup your license.

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Trump Trial Self-Immolator Posted Dizzying Manifesto Online

Protesters screamed and fled as Max Azzarello, 37, set himself ablaze near the historic hush-money trial on Friday afternoon.

Josh Fiallo

Breaking News Reporter

Michael Daly

Special Correspondent

Emily Shugerman

Senior Reporter

William Bredderman

Senior Researcher

Kate Briquelet

Erin O’Flynn/The Daily Beast/St. Augustine Police Department

The man who doused himself with accelerant and set himself ablaze outside Donald Trump ’s Manhattan trial on Friday published an online manifesto, declaring that he self-immolated to warn the world about an “apocalyptic fascist world coup.”

The self-immolating conspiracy theorist was identified by cops as Max Azzarello, a 37-year-old from St. Augustine, Florida, who was in critical condition on Friday afternoon. He declared online that his act was an “extreme act of protest ... to draw attention to an urgent and important discovery.”

His Substack manifesto is a dizzying document that rails against cryptocurrency, New York University, the Clintons, and the world’s governments—warning readers that they are “victims of a totalitarian con” akin to a massive Ponzi scheme.

During a Friday afternoon press conference, the NYPD said that around 1:35 p.m., Azzarello removed multiple pamphlets and an alcohol-based accelerant from his book bag. He then doused himself in the accelerant and set himself ablaze, falling onto a police barrier and collapsing to the ground, engulfed in flames.

“The true history of the world: haunted carnival edition,” one of the pamphlets he possessed read. “Our only goal is to replace our criminal government and replace it with one that serves all.”

“NYU is a mob front,” another pamphlet claimed.

Associates of Azzarello told The Daily Beast that he’d “gone a little haywire” in recent years, with his posts to Facebook growing more and more unhinged.

“[He is] a very personable guy, not an idiot when you’re sitting around talking with him, but over the course of the last few years he’s become more and more involved with the thought process that everything is a conspiracy against the common person,” his former landlord, Larry Altman, told The Daily Beast. “Authority is not doing anything to help you.”

Despite him showing signs of going off the rails, Altman added that Azzarello gave no indication he might do something as radical as setting himself ablaze.

“I would find it difficult to believe he was burning himself because he didn’t like Trump,” Altman said. “He might be burning himself because he doesn’t like authority in general and maybe he was feeling the trial was a show trial .. I don’t know. I can’t even imagine him going that far.”

“He has been unwell,” said one family friend, who asked not to be named because of the sensitivity of the situation. They said Azzarello was living in St. Augustine and working as a consultant but previously lived in New York. “He was very intelligent and a very strong-willed person who was extremely kind. He was a kind guy. He had a big heart. He just battled with some mental illness.”

John-Martin McGhee, who grew up with Azzarello, told The Daily Beast that he’d most recently seen Azzarello two months prior. He said his look was “hobo chic,” but that he acted like his normal self.

“He seemed fine, we were all at a wake [but] there wasn’t an odd amount of emotion,” he said.

A LinkedIn for Azzarello showed he worked on the campaign of Rep. Ami Bera (D-CA) in 2014. Bera emailed a statement to The Daily Beast, saying, “I recall that Max worked on one of my early campaigns. This is tragic news and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time.”

The page also showed he had stints at OpenTent, Eigen X, Goliath Technologies LP, and Strong Towns, though his employment there could not be immediately confirmed.

Social media for Azzarello was filled with talk of conspiracy, including on his Instagram page—where he posted a story that merely said “I love you” a dozen times on Friday afternoon. Also on that page was a photo of him and Newt Gingrich from 2015 , in which he was wearing a Bernie Sanders “eat the rich” shirt. Other posts appeared more normal, including him showing off different trips to Oakland, California.

Azzarello’s Facebook listed his job as being an “independent researcher” who works at “The Ponzi Papers,” which is the name of his Substack account. His last post to Facebook was on March 20, when he shared photos of conspiracy pamphlets with the caption, “If you’re wondering what the future’s history books will say, it’s this! What a time to be alive.”

Azzarello was arrested in St. Augustine three times between Aug. 19 and Aug. 24, 2023. One of those arrests was for allegedly throwing a glass of wine at the wall where an autograph from Bill Clinton was in the lobby of the Casa Monica Resort & Spa. The hotel estimated that caused between $400 and $500 worth of damage. His second arrest also came at the hotel, where Azzarello was cursing loudly and removing his clothes, police alleged.

His third arrest was for allegedly defacing different signs in St. Augustine, including one for a construction site and a “Little Free Library.”

In a mugshot taken by Florida cops, Azzarello is seen sticking his tongue out and closing his left eye.

Max Azzarello sticks his tongue out and closes one eye in a 2023 mugshot.

St. Augustine Police Department

Records show Azzarello also filed a federal lawsuit against the Clinton Foundation last April that included Mark Cuban, Mark Zuckerberg, Peter Thiel, Sam Bankman-Fried, and over a dozen others as c0-defendants. He alleged they’d each participated and benefited financially from a decades-long fraudulent scheme. The lawsuit fizzled out after Azzarello failed to show cause for why a court should take up the suit, which was officially dismissed in October.

His Substack manifesto frequently mentioned the Clintons and the Clinton Global Initiative, linking them to Jeffrey Epstein and sex trafficking. He also parroted the popular QAnon conspiracy that all politicians—on both sides of the aisle—work together to maintain a world order that keeps them in power.

“What does this revelation tell us? That our government is conning us completely,” he wrote. “That Bill Clinton was secretly on (former CIA Director) George H.W. Bush’s side, and that the Democrat vs. Republican division has been entirely manufactured ever since: Clinton is with Bush; Gore is with Bush; Trump is with Hillary, and so on. When they present themselves in public, they are acting as characters that are against one another, practicing kayfabe as wrestlers do.”

The manifesto mentions Trump on only four occasions, including the above. The other three instances were in its headline, first sentence, and when discussing “Trump associates” “Josh” Kushner and Anthony Scaramucci’s ties to cryptocurrency.

Multiple reporters, including those speaking on a CNN live broadcast, said the stench of the flames lingered for several minutes after Azzarello set himself ablaze in Collect Pond Park. Azzarello was rushed to the hospital at 1:41 p.m., the New York City Fire Department said.

In horrifying footage, Azzarello was seen in a seated position, engulfed by flames. Moments later, his body appeared to twitch on the ground as first responders rushed over with fire extinguishers. Onlookers also jumped in to help, scrambling to put out the flames with their coats, police said. Others screamed and ran out of the park, which is across from the Manhattan courthouse where the final jurors in Trump’s criminal hush-money trial had just been chosen Friday afternoon.

Even minutes after the blaze was put out, smoke was still rising from the cement. Ash and white material also littered the street.

The incident happened right before court proceedings broke for lunch. Trump has posted multiple times since the incident on Truth Social, but has yet to address Azzarello.

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast  here .

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Trump trial conspiracist Max Azzarello documented disturbing New York City trip where he set self on fire outside court

• Forrest McFarland , News Reporter
• Published : 21:01 ET, Apr 19 2024
• Updated : 0:16 ET, Apr 20 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

THE man who set himself on fire outside former President Donald Trump's courtroom said he was looking forward to a fun trip to New York in disturbing social media posts shared days before the tragedy.

Max Azzarello , from St. Lauderdale, Florida , documented his days in New York City before dousing himself with accelerant and throwing out pamphlets with anti-government conspiracy theories .

On Friday after 1 pm, Azzarello, 37, went up in a sea of flames outside the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse where Trump was inside for his hush money trial's jury selection .

Screams rang out from bystanders at the sight of the flames, and security positioned for the trial sprinted from the courthouse to try and put out the fire.

Azzarello burned for about two minutes before the blaze was put out and he was raced to the hospital, according to officials.

He died on Friday night.

read more on max azzarello

Man's chilling last post before setting self on fire in front of Trump trial

Man lights self on fire outside Trump's NYC trial in shocking scenes

Earlier this week, Azzarello was spotted in the nearby area of Lower Manhattan to protest and share his anti-government views.

On Friday, he was holding a sign that suggested President Joe Biden and Trump were in cahoots to create a fascist regime and overthrow the government.

His ramblings were also found on his Substack blog, which was plugged in pamphlets that witnesses say he thew before lighting himself on fire.

Before the incident, a post had been scheduled to go live that included ramblings on conspiracies involving everything from former President Bill Clinton to cryptocurrency .

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The top post on the website said, "I have set myself on fire outside the Trump Trial."

Earlier on Friday, Azzarello spoke with The New York Times and said he became critical of the government after researching Paypal founder Peter Thiel , who is a major donor to political causes.

DISTURBING POSTS

Azzarello documented his trip to New York on social media earlier this week and shared now-disturbing posts about his plans.

One post on Instagram showed a suitcase filled with pamphlets with the caption, "This should be a fun trip."

He shared another picture on Instagram of a breakfast sandwich along with the song Still Alive by the artist Shandy.

In a text post, Azzarello asked his followers to join him at Washington Square Park for protesting and "airing out" all of New York University's "dirty laundry."

However, he added, "Joining me would be dangerous."

Azzarello also shared what appeared to be metrics for his Substack, and said he had an increase in traffic one day after he started protesting.

"Cheers to the Bobcats that will help start a revolution," he said, referencing the university's mascot.

"And sorry to the ones that will find out their parents are criminals."

Everything we know about the man who set himself on fire outside Trump's trial

On Friday, a man set himself on fire across the street from the downtown Manhattan courtroom where jury selection in former President Donald Trump's criminal trial concluded.

• The horrific scene unfolded at 1:30 pm.
• The man, identified as Max Azzarello, was standing in a designated protest area outside the Manhattan courthouse.
• Azzarello pulled out what police described as an alcohol-based cleaning substance from his backpack and doused himself with it.
• He proceeded to light himself on fire.
• Azzarello burned for approximately 3 minutes before he was extinguished and rushed away.
• The man tossed a conspiracy-laden manifesto in the air before the self-immolation act.
• Azzarello is in a nearby burn unit in critical condition.
• NYPD officials said Azzarello is from St. Augustine

Azzarello's family wasn't aware that he was in New York until after he set himself on fire, The New York Times reported.

According to friends who spoke with the Times, Azzarello was an intelligent man who graduated from Rutger's University with a master's degree in public policy in 2012.

He was described as being passionate about social justice and was a good friend and great neighbor.

However, those close to him said his mental health started to decline after his mother tragically died from cancer complications in April 2022.

In March 2023, he changed his job description to a self-employed "Research Investigator" on LinkedIn and started to share increasingly incoherent conspiracy theories.

Records show he was arrested three times on misdemeanor charges later that year for risky behaviors.

In August, he was arrested after he showed up at the Casa Monica Hotel in St. Augustine in only his underwear and blasted music while screaming at guests.

Days after that incident, he was arrested for defacing pest control signs that were placed in lawns to warn pedestrians to stay away.

When asked why he moved the signs, Azzarello said, "The pest control company was there to exterminate children and dogs," according to records seen by the Times.

In one of his mugshots, Azzarello made the bizarre decision to close one eye and stick his tongue out

Moments before Friday's chaotic scene unfolded, jury selection was finalized in Donald Trump's hush money election interference trial.

The historic trial stems from a $130,000 payment Trump's former lawyer,  Michael Cohen , allegedly made to adult star  Stormy Daniels  a month before the 2016 presidential election.

He is accused of hiding the payments so the potentially damaging information would not become public before the 2016 election.

Read More on The US Sun

RHONJ's Luis claims ex 'leaked info' to co-stars in $5million lawsuit

Trump, 77, has repeatedly denied having a sexual encounter with the  porn  star.

The former president has called the trial an "assault on America."

• Donald Trump
• New York City
• United States

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

One of the best ways to enjoy your vacation in New York is by renting a car and driving to beautiful, historic cities and states like New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Virginia, and the Carolinas. Each is easily reached within a day’s drive, making the possibilities for exploring beyond New York in any season endless.

You'll also love this:

• The 27 Best Day Trips From New York
• The 15 Best Fall Day Trips from NYC

Below we are sharing our favorite 7-day road trips from New York as well our favorite weekend road trips, too. There are plenty of ways to enjoy the cities and states around New York, so we hope this guide to NY road trips inspires you for your next trip!

As a note before we get started, each of these suggested road trips starts and ends in New York.

Table of Contents

Our Favorite 7-Day Road Trips From New York

7-day road trip from new york to vermont and new hampshire.

After planning a packed visit to New York, with all its museums, restaurants, and Broadway shows, take a road trip to Vermont and New Hampshire to really enjoy one of America’s most beautiful spots. With New Hampshire about four and a half hours by car from New York and Vermont just an hour or two from New Hampshire, this is a trip that prioritizes time outside.

Head to Bretton Woods in New Hampshire in the White Mountain National Forest for some of the region’s best snowshoeing in the winter and incredible mountain biking and hiking during the summer. Over in Vermont, the Killington Resort is one of the region’s biggest, also offering snowmobile tours, a tubing park, and more.

Wondering when to plan your Vermont and New Hampshire road trip? It’s easy to take advantage of your preferred season. For skiing in Vermont and New Hampshire, the snowfall can start in November and often lasts until mid-April. For hiking and fishing, come in the summer. For the stunning colors of changing leaves, come in autumn. 

Roadtrip from NYC to Watkins Glen and Letchworth State Parks, Niagara Falls and 1000 Islands

We have again made a great tour from New York: The route leads once through the entire state of New York, with Niagara Falls on the northeastern border with Canada, along the beautiful Finger Lakes to the 1000 Islands on the northeastern border. You can expect a beautiful landscape with many farms, rivers and dreamlike nature.

After this tour, which incidentally follows the course of the Erie Canal, which is largely responsible for the rise of New York City, you can also proudly claim to have been in Lebanon, Athens, Rome, London, Amsterdam, Russia and Hamburg. Because all of these places are located along this great road trip.

The next road trip from New York on my list is quite similar but you spend more time in Canada with Toronto and Montreal on your list.

7-Day Road Trip From New York to Canada

Did you know that New York shares a border with Canada? It can be easy to forget with all of the focus on Manhattan that New York state is actually a fairly big state – and one that connects with America’s neighbor the north.

For a break from New York city life and to experience Canadian culture, you’ll enjoy a weeklong road trip to Canada with stops at Niagara Falls (even taking a boat underneath the falls!), Toronto (where you can size up the city with the view from the CN Tower), and Montreal (where you’ll see the French influence is still alive and well).

Driving from New York to Niagara Falls will take just under seven hours. From there, you’ll drive for two hours to Toronto. Toronto to Montreal is about five and a half hours. Then returning to New York will take about five hours. Though chillier in the winter, this is a beautiful roadtrip from NYC to take no matter the season.

This road trip from New York is also available as a guided 5-day tour. You can find out more about it here 👇

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Get To Know America’s Roots on this Roadtrip from New York

New York can feel like the most American of cities: lots of cultures, lots of opportunity, lots of, well, everything. If you want to spend some time getting to know American history, then use a weeklong road trip to head to Washington D.C. and Virginia.

In Washington, D.C., which is about fours from Manhattan by car, you’ll find the National Mall, one of the most concentrated and impressive collections of museums in the United States. Continuing onto Virginia, which was home to four of America’s first five presidents, you can visit living-history museums like the Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg.

After your fill of culture and history, you can take advantage of the stunning Shenandoah Valley before taking a four-hour drive over to Virginia’s Eastern Shore to soak up the ocean sprays.

Given this mix of city visits and natural parks, this is a trip that’s enjoyable throughout the year.

Taste Southern Hospitality in South Carolina on this roadtrip from NYC

After a few hectic days in the hustle and bustle of New York, a trip down the coast to South Carolina can be a wonderful experience. The total driving time from Manhattan down to South Carolina is about 11 hours. Spread out over six or seven days, that means you can enjoy visits to the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville, North Carolina on your way to Hilton Head and Charleston, South Carolina.

So-called the Birthplace of Barbecue , South Carolina is as much a culinary destination as a cultural one. Enjoy the change of pace and scenery over your weeklong road trip as you enjoy true Southern Hospitality.

If you’re planning a winter vacation in New York, South Carolina may be a bit warmer, offering you a chance to thaw out. During the summer it can be more humid. Either way, the barbecue is always delicious and the people are always charming.

Roadtrip from NYC to Boston, White Mountains, Niagara Falls and Washington D.C.

This tour along the East Coast is one of the most impressive road trips I have taken in the USA so far. In October 2016, my father and I started in New York – where else?! I wanted to show him why I have loved this city so much for years and which spots are close to my heart. 

In total, this route takes you a total of 1,600 miles through 12 US states. What are our highlights of this road trip on the East Coast of the USA for us, I show you here in the travel review.

History And Food In And Around Philadelphia

If you are looking for an amazing weekend road trip adventure from New York look no further! Apart from being known for Rocky’s hometown, Philadelphia is also one of America’s most iconic and historical cities. It’s even where the signing of the Declaration of Independence happened on August 2nd, 1776! So if you’re looking to add a weekend trip onto your time in New York, Philadelphia and a few of its surrounding cities could make for a great choice.

At just under two hours by car (and even less by train!) Philadelphia is an easy trip from New York. Along with stopping by to see the Liberty Bell at Independence Hall, you can also see the birthplace of the American flag and the Museum of the American Revolution (before taking a lunch break to grab a renowned Philly Cheesesteak).

To make a weekend of it, it’s worth turning toward the countryside and heading toward Brandywine Valley. Filled with quaint towns and rolling hills, the region also has a number of renowned wineries making up the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail. 

And what pairs with wine better than chocolate? Just an hour and a half by car to the west, Hershey is the birthplace of Hershey chocolate and the so-called Sweetest Place on Earth. Ideal for families, Hershey features the Hershey Story Museum, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and Hershey Gardens.

Though there are a number of Christmastime activities that make for even sweeter seasonal celebrations, the attractions are open year-round, making Philadelphia, Brandywine, and Hershey a great weekend trip to take from New York.

My tip: An additional stop in Washington D.C. is a great extension to this road trip from New York. Besides the White House, you can visit the Lincoln Memorial, the famous Smithsonian Museums, the United States Capitol or the Washington Monument.

Hike Upstate New York: One Of The Best Weekend Road Trip Adventures From New York

When you want to get out of the city for a few days, hiking in upstate New York is one of the best options. No matter the time of year, hiking in the Adirondacks, the Catskills, and the surrounding regions always offers incredible views, serene nature, and charming small-town atmosphere. 

To get to the Adirondacks from Manhattan, you’ll need about four and a half hours in a car. Perfect for a morning start and a leisurely afternoon hike. Among some of our favorite Adirondack adventures are the Ausable Chasm (which also has white-water rafting for those summer month trips), Cascade Mountain (the supposed easiest of the 46 High Peaks), Mount Marcy (the highest of the 46 High Peaks), and the Saranac Lake 6er (a delightful hiking challenge you can try and tackle in a single weekend).

At just over two hours driving time, the Catskills are an even more accessible weekend trip from New York. With stunning waterfall hikes (don’t miss the Haines Falls!), the Hunter Mountain Fire Tower (one of the region’s most challenging hikes), and plentiful Nordic skiing and snowshoeing , there are plenty of outdoors activities to choose from.

With well-marked trails for any season, you’ll find the snowy hikes and the summertime strolls equally enjoyable. Just make sure you’re dressed for the occasion!

Go Wine Tasting In The Finger Lakes

Want to taste some of the best wine in New York? Soak up the small-town life in some of the state’s quaintest towns? Enjoy some idyllic lakes?

Then it’s time to head to the Finger Lakes Region. Located in upstate New York, the Finger Lakes is home to towns like Ithaca (and Cornell University, the region’s Ivy League), Watkins Glen (some of the best hiking in the area), and Geneva ( recent winner of the All-America City award ).

If you’re looking to get your wine on, the Finger Lakes themselves have four official wine trails ready to be embarked on. This includes

• the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail
• the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail (“America’s First Wine Trail”)
• the Keuka Lake Wine Trail,
• and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

From Manhattan to the Finger Lakes, you can expect to spend about 5 hours in the car. Perfect for a Friday departure with a few roadside attractions, a lazy Saturday, and then a return late Sunday afternoon. With wine-tasting rooms and events all year round, the time is always right to stop by the Finger Lakes.

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!

Frequently Asked Questions About Road Trips From New York

If I rent a car, does my road trip have to end back at New York?

Nope! Most rental car agencies are flexible with the return location for your rental car. There may, however, be a slight surcharge for returning it in a different spot than you started.  

Which states make up the New England region?

This is one of the most gorgeous areas to visit during the autumn. But for those not familiar with the area, the name can be a little misleading. New England is the name given to a northeastern region of the U.S., and it includes Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.  

What’s the best time of year to do a road trip from New York?

There’s an argument to be made for each season. New York City is the hottest during the summer, so a road trip can be a nice way to escape the heat and explore some of the amazing nature around it. If you’re planning to spend time exploring other cities, a road trip in the spring and fall will give you the most agreeable temperatures. And if you’re planning to do some winter sports, then the winter season will work best. The only risk with winter is, naturally, that a large snowstorm could make travel by road difficult. Fortunately, the region is well-prepared to handle this kind of weather and delays would likely be minimal.

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

The Best Fall Weekend Getaways From NYC + Day Trips

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

Solar eclipse path across New York and how long will it last: Explore these interactive maps

The first total  eclipse over New York in 99 years  will be visible April 8. It's a sight not to be missed. Should you skip this one, the next total solar eclipse that can be seen in the United States will be in 2044 (visible in North Dakota and Montana) and 2045 (crossing from California to Florida.)

In addition to New York, the eclipse will travel through 11 other states. Two others (Tennessee and Michigan) will see small parts of it.

The shadow will be traveling at an average of about 2,300 miles per hour across New York state and will only take about 10 minutes, from one side of state to the other, said Dan Schneiderman, of Rochester Museum & Science Center.

Across North America, notable cities in the path of totality include Mazatlán and Torreón, Mexico; San Antonio, Austin and Dallas, Texas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Indianapolis, Indiana; Cleveland, Ohio; Buffalo and Rochester, New York; Burlington, Vermont; and most of Montreal, Canada.

Follow the path of totality for solar eclipse 2024

What time will eclipse be on april 8, 2024, in westchester and new york city.

The Hudson Valley will not be in the path of totality but will see between 88 and 99 percent coverage. Starting at 2:11 p.m. April 8 in Westchester County, the moon will begin to appear to move in front of the sun. Maximum coverage begins at 3:25 p.m. By 4:36 p.m. the moon will have moved past the sun returning the light to normal.

2024 total solar eclipse arrival times in US

What happens during total solar eclipse.

The moon will line up perfectly between the Earth and the sun, blotting out the sunlight. It will take just a couple hours for the moon's shadow to slice a diagonal line from the southwest to the northeast across North America, briefly plunging communities along the track into darkness.

Among the cities smack dab in the action: Dallas; Little Rock, Arkansas; Indianapolis, Cleveland, Ohio; Rochester, Buffalo, New York; and Montreal — making for the continent’s biggest eclipse crowd.

But, practically everyone on the continent can catch at least a partial eclipse. The farther from the path of totality, the smaller the moon’s bite will be out of the sun.

How to safely view the eclipse

Do not look at the sun directly during the eclipse. Sunglasses will not protect your eyes, only use International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 12312-2 certified eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers  from a trusted source .

The American Astronomical Society states on its website:

• Always inspect your solar filter before use; if scratched, punctured, torn, or otherwise damaged, discard it. Read and follow any instructions printed on or packaged with the filter.
• Always supervise children using solar filters.
• If you normally wear eyeglasses, keep them on. Put your eclipse glasses on over them, or hold your handheld viewer in front of them.
• Stand still and cover your eyes with your eclipse glasses or solar viewer before looking up at the bright Sun. After looking at the Sun, turn away and remove your filter — do  not  remove it while looking at the Sun.
• Do  not  look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or other optical device.
• Similarly, do not look at the Sun through an unfiltered camera, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device while using your eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewer in front of your eyes — the concentrated solar rays could damage the filter and enter your eyes, causing serious injury.
• Seek expert advice from an astronomer before using a solar filter with a camera, telescope, binoculars, or any other optical device; note that solar filters must be attached to the  front  of any telescope, binoculars, camera lens, or other optics.

Specific to the April eclipse:

• If you are inside the path of totality, remove your solar filter  only  when the Moon completely covers the Sun’s bright face and it suddenly gets quite dark. Experience totality, then, as soon as the bright Sun begins to reappear ,  replace your solar viewer to look at the remaining partial phases. Note that this applies only to viewing without optical aid (other than ordinary eyeglasses). Different rules apply when viewing or imaging the Sun through camera lenses, binoculars, or telescopes; consult an expert astronomer before using a solar filter with any type of magnifying optics.
• Outside the path of totality, and throughout a partial solar eclipse, there is no time when it is safe to look directly at the Sun without using a special-purpose solar filter that complies with the transmittance requirements of the  ISO 12312-2 international standard .

One can also indirectly view the eclipse through a pinhole projector, where one views a projected image through a small opening made in an index card or a piece of cardboard paper. Need to know how to make one? The  Jet Propulsion Laboratory  has instructions.

Hartriono B. Sastrowa r doyo contributed to this report

Philadelphia 76ers

New yorkers weigh in on knicks-76ers playoff series; philly-centric sports bar ready to host fans.

NEW YORK CITY (WPVI) -- It's been more than two decades since the Philadelphia 76ers and New York Knicks have met in an NBA playoff game.

Action News took a trip to New York City to talk to Knicks fans about the rivalry and the upcoming playoff series.

"I'm a Knicks fan! I was born and raised in New York," proclaimed Victor Velez, of Burlington, N.J.

READ MORE: 76ers to face Knicks in 1st round of playoffs | Check the full schedule

As the Sixers prepare for Game 1 on Saturday night, many Knicks fans think Joel Embiid could make or break Philadelphia's performance.

"They're pretty strong, but Embiid isn't where he needs to be. Embiid has got that knee, the problems with the injuries and stuff. He's going to have to tackle that, and they gotta handle Brunson," said Tyreek Alicea of Brooklyn, N.Y.

Of course, it wasn't long before we found some folks in Sixers gear.

"My wife kind of warned me about it. 'Are you sure you want to wear that?' I'm like, 'Yeah! New York fans are great,'" laughed Joe Anello, of Willow Grove, Pa., proudly wearing a Sixers sweatshirt near Madison Square Garden.

Sean Caldwell is from Philadelphia, but he's now a DJ in New York. He knows Knicks fans well.

"It's a similar energy -- real passionate, real dedicated. We do call this the mecca. So I'm not going to denounce that," said Caldwell.

We stopped by Mustang Harry's -- a short walk from Madison Square Garden -- which is usually packed with fans on game day.

"All the fans are fairly revved up on this one," said Mustang Harry's owner Ian Conroy. "The fact that it's the Sixers and your star player is back -- that's going to add to it."

But after a few hours in the Big Apple, we needed a taste of home. We found it at Olde City Cheesesteaks and Brew.

"We are a Philly-centric sports bar concept located obviously in Manhattan," said founder Evan Stein.

With Philly decor - and hometown food - the three locations aim to be a haven for Philly fans.

"When it's an Eagles game, or a Sixers game, or even a Phillies game, New Yorkers stay far away from this place," said Stein.

Game 1 starts at 6 p.m. Saturday at the Garden. Game 2 is Monday night in NY.

Then the series comes back home to the Wells Fargo Center for Games 3 and 4.

Related Topics

• PHILADELPHIA
• NBA PLAYOFFS
• PHILADELPHIA 76ERS

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