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20 epic day trips from seattle you need to take in 2024.

The Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Museum of Pop Culture are some of the most popular tourist destinations in Seattle and most likely where someone will tell you to go when looking for something to do. However, while the city is fun, I highly recommend going out of it, as taking a day trip from Seattle lets you see just a small part of what else the state has to offer.

I’ve lived in Seattle for over 25 years, so I’m an expert when it comes to recommending Seattle day trips to go on. My friends are constantly messaging me to ask what they should do on their day off, and I have a hard time picking just one place to tell them about – I love Washington too much!

Many of my weekends consist of finding new destinations in Washington, so I’ve been able to take dozens of different Seattle day trips over the years. Whether I’m hiking in a national park or exploring a new small town, I’ve slowly been able to cross items off my Washington State bucket list .

While it was hard to make a list of only 20 places, these are some of the best Washington state day trips, in my opinion. Whether you’re a local looking for something new to do or visiting the city for a vacation, here are ideas to add to your list of the best day trips from Seattle.

This article was originally written in 2018 and last updated in 2024.

Coming from out of town? You’ll want to rent a car to be able to get around on your own. From Hertz to Alamo , we have a good variety available in Seattle.

Table of Contents

20 Best Day Trips From Seattle

While these are nowhere near all the places to explore in the area, these are some of the best day trips in Washington State. Whether you’re a local seeking a new adventure or a tourist exploring the city, here are some fantastic ideas to consider adding to your list of the best day trips from Seattle based on my experience of having been to all of these places.

1. Mount Rainier National Park

Distance from Seattle: 86 miles

Travel time: 2 hours

Our first stop on this list of day trips from Seattle is Mount Rainier, the highest mountain in Washington State and in the Cascade Range of the Pacific Northwest. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll see me here at least half a dozen times during the summer exploring new Mount Rainier hikes . I absolutely love getting up early and heading out to the park while the sun is just coming up.

You might also recognize this as the unofficial logo of Seattle, as it’s on everything from Seattle tourist gifts to our license plates and the most popular Washington National Park . There are so many beautiful roadside stops to make that don’t require hiking, and some of my favorites are Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Reflection Lakes .

People love to take a day trip to Mount Rainier to explore the dozens of different hikes, find waterfalls , and spot wildlife. If you do the Skyline Loop hike, you’ll make it to Panorama Point , one of the best views in the park, where you’ll have an amazing view of the surrounding meadows, forests, and other mountains such as Mount St. Helens (did you know you can climb Mount St. Helens ?) and Mount Adams.

I’ll give you an insider tip – you’ll need to get here early in the morning if you come during the weekend in the summer, as it gets insanely crowded. Luckily, the park just made a new rule for 2024 that reservations are required and based on a time entrance, so this should cut down on some of the traffic.

While you can visit the mountain in one day, you can also turn this into a weekend getaway from Seattle if you want to spend more time hiking. I highly recommend this, as there are tons to explore on the mountain. There are also some amazing Washington fall hikes to go on here, with my favorites being Skyline Trail and Naches Peak Loop .

Afterward, stay at one of these gorgeous cabins near Mount Rainier for the night.

If you don’t want to drive, book a ticket on the Mt. Rainier Railroad for one of the more unique train day trips from Seattle. You’ll get a scenic view of the surrounding area while learning about history.

Prefer to go on a tour instead of driving yourself there? There are multiple tours from Seattle to Mt. Rainier available, including a small-group tour with breakfast and lunch provided or a Mt. Rainier and wine-tasting tour . The best part is that most of these day trips from downtown Seattle will pick you up right at your hotel if you’re visiting.

2. Whidbey Island

Distance from Seattle : 35 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 10 minutes

If you want to avoid one of those busy urban Seattle day trips, head to Whidbey Island for the day to take one of the more unique day trips from Seattle by ferry. This is only a short drive north of Seattle, and you’ll also find me here during every season exploring this beautiful island.

While it’s great to visit any time of the year, spring in Seattle is my favorite time to come here because it’s not crowded with tourists yet, and the colorful Meerkerk Gardens is in full bloom. I took my kids here for the first time this year and they loved getting their energy out on all the trails and doing the scavenger hunt you can get at the front check-in area.

Another area I love to go to is Coupeville , as they have an adorable waterfront town with tons of history. My favorite places to stop are Toby’s Tavern for fish and chips and a beer, Kapaws Iskreme for ice cream in the summer, and walking on the pier.

Make sure to check out the state parks here – both Fort Ebey and Fort Casey are to the west of Coupeville, where you’ll get to see lighthouses, hike through the forest, and check out old bunkers. I go to one of these forts almost every time I stop on the island.

Whidbey Island is also a great place to go shopping. There are boutiques, cafés, and galleries in the island’s coastal towns, including Oak Harbor, Coupeville, and Langley . Check out some of the best things to do on Whidbey Island when planning your trip. This is one of the best day trips from Seattle, in my opinion, so I recommend spending a day on this island soon.

3. Olympic National Park

Distance from Seattle: 83 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 25 minutes

Even though it will take about two and a half hours to reach Olympic National Park, it is still one of the most beautiful destinations in Washington State among this list of the best day trips from Seattle. It’s on the Olympic Peninsula in the Pacific Northwest and is home to mountains, beaches, and even a rainforest.

When you spend one day in Olympic National Park , make sure to stop by Hurricane Ridge (an elevated destination for hiking and skiing), Lake Crescent (a mountain lake with trails and sites for camping), and Sol Duc Falls (my favorite waterfall here).

To be honest, there is so much to do at this park that you should really spend at least a few days here, but I know that doesn’t work with everyone’s schedule, so I’m here to tell you that a day trip is possible. I’ve done it a handful of times, and I just recommend leaving Seattle early to give yourself the most time to explore.

Also, keep in mind that if you visit during the winter, the daylight hours are much shorter, so you’ll want to wrap up any outdoor activities by 4 p.m. Check out my guide to an Olympic Peninsula road trip for ideas, which I highly recommend adding to a 4 day Seattle itinerary .

One of my favorite things to do here is all the hikes in Olym p ic National Park , ranging from easy hikes to multi-day backpacking trips.

Want someone else to drive on this long day trip from Seattle? Check out these guided tours:

• Lake Crescent and Sol Duc tour to see the mountains, a lake, and a stunning waterfall
• Hoh Rain Forest and Rialto Beach tour to see a rainforest and one of the best beaches

If you decide to extend your trip, you can spend the night at Olympic Lodge . This lodge is near the park and even has a pool if you want to relax at night.

4. Bainbridge Island

Distance from Seattle: 11 miles

Travel time: 1 hour

Taking a trip to Bainbridge Island is a close and easy day trip from Seattle that you can take, and there are so many things to do on Bainbridge Island . When I first moved to Seattle, my family would take this ferry across the water all the time, just for the day. The ferry ride alone is one of the main reasons people love coming here and one of the best Seattle summer activities to do.

Bainbridge has plenty of hikes near Seattle to explore if you take your car, (many of which are in the forest) so it’s ideal for rainy-day hikes in Seattle . There is also a small town to have lunch at if you want to walk across the ferry instead, and you’ll have multiple shops to visit nearby as well

Bainbridge Island also has the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art , an eco-friendly museum where rotating exhibitions by contemporary local artists can be seen. They also have a handful of wineries, which surprised me the first time I visited. My favorite is Bainbridge Vineyards , which has a covered outdoor area to enjoy even when it’s raining.

Some people just enjoy taking the ferry across and back without even getting off, which I also recommend on a sunny day (it’s one of the best ways to get around Seattle ). You never know what you’ll see on the water, such as seals or whales if you’re lucky (you can also book a Seattle whale-watching tour to guarantee that). Many people enjoy walking on the ferry and then taking it back during a day in Seattle .

Looking for the ultimate Seattle travel guide written by a local that tells you all the best places to go and what to see? My new ebook is now live, so  click here  to buy your copy!

5. North Cascades National Park

Distance from Seattle: 110 miles

Mountains of conifer trees, glacier peaks, and clear blue lakes – you can find all of these at the North Cascades National Park. This is one of the most beautiful US national parks , in my opinion, and one of the best road trips from Seattle .

It’s a great place to visit for those who are only looking for day trips from Seattle, but you can get more from this experience if you stay longer. Spending the weekend in Winthrop is a fun mini-vacation to plan, and you’ll find this Western-themed city at the end of the North Cascades Highway.

There are many places to stop on a North Cascades day trip from Seattle , such as Ladder Creek Falls, Gorge Overlook, and Washington Pass Overlook . I love these because they’re quick stops that give you beautiful views, and no hiking is required.

Make sure to stop at Diablo Lake on the way out – this is one of the most stunning parts of your one-day trip from Seattle because of its natural beauty. Located between Ross Lake and Forge Lake on the Skagit River, it is elevated at an astounding 1,201 feet above sea level. I didn’t think it was really as blue/green as I saw in pictures until the first time I visited, and now I see why this astonishing spot is the most popular place to stop.

In the mood for hiking? There are tons of hikes to do, which I’m slowly checking off my list. Make sure to check out my list of the best day hikes in North Cascades National Park .

Due to its proximity to Canada, it’s a popular weekend getaway from Vancouver . People come from all over to get pictures of this lake and go on hikes nearby.

The absolute best time of year to visit is during the famous larch hike season in Washington , which tends to be at the beginning of October. You’ll find me here the second I hear larches start to show, as they’re stunning ( Heather-Maple Loop is a great hike for larches).

I love using Roadtrippers for all my road trips because they show you all the fun stops to make along the way. You can get $5 off if you sign up with my code BTR5QTP .

6. San Juan Island

Travel time: 3 hours and 15 minutes

San Juan Island is one of the longest day trips from Seattle on this list, but it will be worth the travel. There are so many places to see and activities to do while you’re here.

Many people love coming to one of the most scenic day trips from Seattle by ferry in the summer. (If you’re visiting and spending 3 days in Seattle , I recommend extending your trip to visit the island.)

When you come on the ferry, you’ll be in the town of Friday Harbor . There are many cute boutique shops to visit and restaurants with a view of the water. You can also check out the hikes on San Juan Island to get some exercise during your visit.

Another popular activity is going whale watching at Lime Kiln Point State Park . This is perhaps one of the most popular activities among tourists and locals alike when looking for what to do on San Juan Island . It’s one of the few places where you might actually see whales standing on land.

This area is one of the most scenic places to go kayaking, so check out a San Juan Island kayaking tour if you have time. I love going out here in the calm waters, where you always see sea life of some sort.

Since this is one of the farthest Seattle day trips, you may decide to extend it into an overnight trip. Friday Harbor House is a chic hotel right on the water with a view of the ferry.

7. Snoqualmie Falls

Distance from Seattle: 30 miles

Travel time: 35 minutes

If you only have a few hours and need ideas for easy day trips from Seattle, make sure to visit Snoqualmie Falls. One of the most popular waterfalls near Seattle , this 268-foot waterfall is located on the Snoqualmie River in the east of Seattle. It is a popular destination, with more than 1.5 million people visiting the waterfall every year, and one of the best free things to do in Seattle .

There is also an observation deck and a gift shop in the vicinity, so you can have a great view of the waterfall and buy some souvenirs to take home. You’ll love that this is one of the closest day trips near Seattle, and you can fit in other activities if you want. I personally recommend going to the observation deck at the top and then taking the 0.7-mile hike down to the river, where you’ll have a completely different viewpoint.

One of the most common tours here is the Snoqualmie Falls and wine-tasting tour , where you’ll get to visit two popular destinations in the Seattle area and see some of the best things to do in the PNW .

If you want to treat yourself and extend your stay, book a night at the beautiful Salish Lodge .

8. Leavenworth

Distance from Seattle: 125 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 20 minutes

Visiting Leavenworth is one of the most popular day trips from Seattle for tourists and locals alike. The entire town center is modeled to look like a Bavarian village, which is reminiscent of an old German town (they even love to celebrate Oktoberfest here). No matter what time of year you come, you’ll love taking this Leavenworth day trip from Seattle.

The village is a popular tourist destination with all the fun things to do in Leavenworth . This is also one of the best day trips from Seattle in winter due to all the Leavenworth Christmas festivities . In fact, it is named A&E’s “Ultimate Holiday Town in the USA.” You can go shopping, eat German sausage, drink beer, and even play mini-golf.

I’ve been here in every season and I don’t know if I could pick my favorite one. Fall is beautiful with the foliage all over the town, and you can participate in the lively Oktoberfest festival. Winter is also stunning, as the town really has a European feel, with snow blanketing the village and holiday lights everywhere.

I always stop here for lunch on the way to eastern Washington, and I recommend Rhein Haus for German food or Blewett Brewing Company for pizza and beer.

Don’t want to drive? No problem – book a tour from Seattle to Leavenworth so you can relax.

Distance from Seattle: 40 miles

Travel time: 40 minutes

For those looking for easy day trips from Seattle or a fun day trip from Portland , head south and take a short trip to Tacoma. It’s a waterfront town that’s known for the Museum of Glass , which exhibits the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly.

There are tons of things to do in Tacoma to fill your day. Some places you can visit in Tacoma include the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, Point Defiance Park, and Point Ruston . Based on how many kid-friendly things there are to do, Tacoma is one of the best day trips from Seattle with kids.

During the summer, catching a Tacoma Rainiers baseball game is a great way to spend a sunny day. Tickets and concessions are cheap, and the game is entertaining no matter what age you are during one of the closest day trips around Seattle. I came here several years ago for my first game and loved how casual the stadium was while having a decent selection of food and beer.

10. La Conner

Distance from Seattle: 67 miles

Travel time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

Another great day trip near Seattle is the charming town of La Conner . I first came here years ago when I was going to college in Bellingham, and I have made it a goal to revisit every few years. My friend mentioned she hadn’t been before, so I took her up this year to see it again and found even more places to go.

When you first get into town, I recommend stopping at Beaver Tales Coffee for fuel for your day. After that, walk around the area as shops slowly start to open and head to the waterfront to see boats going along the river. Head down to the Rainbow Bridge at the edge of town to take an iconic picture below it and to be closer to the water.

For lunch, I love getting fish and chips at La Conner Waterfront Cafe or heading to La Conner Brewing Company for beer and appetizers. When you’re ready to shop, you’ll love all the lotions and other goods at Handmade La Conner .

11. Woodinville

Distance from Seattle: 20 miles

Travel time: 25 minutes

Popular with locals and tourists alike, Woodinville is an easy day trip from Seattle due to how close it is. You can choose how long to spend here, whether you want to visit for an afternoon or spend all day on this Seattle area day trip.

The most common thing to do in Woodinville is to go wine tasting at dozens of different wineries. In fact, they call it Woodinville Wine Country because of how large the area is. I’ve visited tons of wineries over the years and have never had a bad experience.

The most famous winery is Chateau Ste Michelle , and I recommend going here if it’s your first time in the area. They have a giant gift shop, cafe, multiple wine-tasting stations, and a spacious outdoor area to walk around during your one day trip from Seattle.

Other wineries I like in the area include Armstrong Family Winery, Covington Cellars, and Cave B Estate Winery. If you’d prefer to sample something besides wine on your day trip near Seattle, you also have your choice of breweries, distilleries, and cideries in the area.

For an amazing day out, book this Woodinville wine-tasting and Snoqualmie Falls tour !

12. Mount St. Helens National Park

Distance from Seattle: 185 miles

Mount St. Helens National Park attracts more than half a million visitors every year who want to go volcano-watching. Most people can’t believe they can get so close to a volcano that still has steam coming out of it (one of our many Seattle facts to impress people with).

There are other activities that you can do when you visit one of the most fun day trips from Seattle, such as hiking easy to difficult trails. It’s also a popular Portland weekend trip due to its location further south in the state. However, you should note that access to most of the mountain is largely closed in the winter.

I recommend stopping at Johnston Ridge Observatory to learn more about the mountain’s past and present and have a stunning look into the crater. You can also summit the volcano (with a permit), see wildlife like elk, fish at Coldwater Lake , explore caves, and ride horses at Eco Park . Mount St. Helens National Park is perfect for those seeking adventurous Seattle day trips, and is also a popular Pacific Northwest road trip stop .

13. Bellingham

Distance from Seattle: 90 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Bellingham is a coastal town near the Canadian border with plenty to do outdoors. I used to live in Bellingham during college, so in my opinion, this is one of the best day trips from there, especially if you want to be in a beautiful setting.

The area is also a very kid-friendly PNW destination if your family is with you. There are plenty of parks to visit and family-friendly breweries to stop at for a meal as well.

Here, you’ll find Mount Baker, Whatcom Falls, Lummi Island, Chuckanut Mountains, and Lake Padden. You should also visit the SPARK Museum of Electrical Invention and the Whatcom Museum while you’re in Bellingham.

Make sure to stop by one of the local restaurants downtown for lunch or dinner (I recommend Boundary Bay Brewery ). They have over 20 different small breweries to choose from, which I love about the town. One of my favorites is Otherlands , which serves Eastern European food and beer.

14. Boeing Everett Factory

Located just thirty minutes from the city, the Boeing Everett Factory will fit your day trip around Seattle itinerary well. Those who love all things airplanes will love this (I even enjoyed it, and I’m not the biggest aviation fan).

I’ve brought multiple friends from out of town here and they find it fascinating to go inside the factory and see what it’s like to build a plane. The only caveat is you can’t bring your phone inside the factory (hence my picture from the outdoor viewing area).

This airplane assembly building is the largest building in the world in terms of volume and area. Here, you can see large aircraft (like the Boeing 747, 767, 777, and 787) being assembled. This tour is best saved for when you need ideas for cozy day trips from Seattle in winter .

You’ll need to sign up for your Boeing tour in advance, so buy your tickets online .

Either way, you’ll love this when you need ideas for easy day trips from Seattle. Stop by the nearby town of Mukilteo afterward to get lunch or dinner at Ivar’s Seafood Bar (one of my favorite recommendations on the list of what to eat in Seattle ).

15. Edmonds

Distance from Seattle: 17 miles

Travel time: 30 minutes

Edmonds is often a stopping point for people taking the ferry to Kingston to visit the Olympic Peninsula, but it’s by far one of my favorite cities in the state, so it’s worth spending the day here. Head to North Brackett’s Landing to walk out on a sandy beach, see the ferry going across the water, and grab a latte at Waterfront Coffee .

Once the shops open a little later in the morning, you’ll have plenty of options. Anchor Chic, Crow, and Rogue are my favorites for women’s clothing and accessories. If you have kids, you must stop at Little Bipsy , which has almost a cult-like following at this point with their adorable kids’ clothing (my boys get a matching sweatsuit from them each year).

It’s impossible to tell you all my favorite places to eat or drink, but a few are:

• MARKET for the best seafood and lobster rolls around
• Demetris for shareable appetizers and waterfront views
• Vie & Vin for a huge selection of wine (both tastings and bottles for purchase are available)

Distance from Seattle: 142 miles

Travel time: 2 hours and 10 minutes

Yakima is one of the best Seattle day trips that locals go on when they want warm weather for a day. Located on the other side of the Cascade Mountains, the weather tends to be sunny and hot consistently during the summer.

There are dozens of wineries here if you want to taste some of the best wine in the state (check out Treveri Cellars ). They also have a good number of breweries in Washington for sampling beer, and more breweries continue to open up each year.

You won’t want to miss some of the more unique food here, such as tamales that often sell out. Be sure to stop at the Sunday Farmer’s Market as well to stock up before you head back home.

There are also numerous hikes to go on that you’ll want to check out, such as Cowiche Canyon and Tieton Nature Trail (my personal favorites).

17. Victoria, BC

Distance from Seattle: n/a (ferry ride)

Travel time: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Did you know you can easily visit Canada in a day, and the best part is you don’t have to drive there?  Victoria Clipper  lets you take a day trip from Seattle to Victoria in less than three hours, and you’ll arrive in Canada just before 11 am.

That means you’ll have almost five hours to explore the very walkable city of Victoria during one of the best day trips from Seattle.

While it makes for a long day, this is one of the most entertaining day trips from Seattle with kids. They’ll love looking for whales and other sea life during the ferry ride, and there are plenty of activities to do in Victoria with kids once you get there.

I’ve been to this city about a dozen times at this point, and the places I always recommend are the  Royal BC Museum, Fisherman’s Wharf, and Butchart Gardens . For a meal before your trip back, stop at  The Flying Otter Grill.

Book your Victoria Clipper ticket in advance to get the day you want, as it’s a popular activity!

18. Chuckanut Drive

Distance from Seattle: 75 miles

Travel time: 1 hour and 11 minutes

One of the most scenic drives and best Seattle day trips is Chuckanut Drive up by Bellingham. I went to college at the nearby Western Washington University, and I can’t tell you how many weekends I came here to be in awe of the beautiful sights.

There are many pullouts where you can safely get off the road and take pictures of the San Juan Islands and Canada. If you’re a hiker, you’ll love doing some of the trails up here, such as Oyster Dome .

Hiking in the summer is the best time to come here, which is why it makes one of the best day trips from Seattle in the summer.

A few restaurants are located on the drive, but they’re not always open. I recommend driving down to La Conner after your drive to check out this cute town on the water. There are so many fun things to do in La Conner that you won’t want to miss.

You can stop by the family-friendly La Conner Pub & Eatery for lunch or dinner to fill up after your exploration. After that, head down to Pioneer Park and take a walk across the Rainbow Bridge.

19. Gig Harbor

Distance from Seattle: 38 miles

Travel time: 45 minutes

One of the most romantic day trips in Washington State is Gig Harbor , which is only a short drive south of the city. You’ll love walking around this small Washington town , exploring boutique shops, and talking to locals, and it’s one of the best short day trips from Seattle.

One of my favorite things to do is grab a coffee to go and walk around the water. You’ll see small boats, yachts, kayaks, and more out on the water. You can also rent a kayak for an hour or two if you want to get some exercise.

I recommend taking a boat tour so you can see everything the area has to offer while learning about the history of Gig Harbor. There are several companies to choose from, and I suggest booking a morning tour while the water is calm.

Book your Gig Harbor boat tour online.

20. Snoqualmie Pass

Distance from Seattle: 54 miles

I love going to Snoqualmie Pass for a day trip from Seattle because there’s something to do no matter what season you go in. Many people associate it only with the winter when you can visit The Summit at Snoqualmie Pass , which has four different areas with tons of runs that cater to beginners up to advanced skiers who want to go in the backcountry. You’ll find me here every season, slowly trying to improve my skiing skills.

However, there’s a ton to do when the snow melts as well. One of my favorite hikes is Snow Lake , which you can access from the Alpental parking lot. Gold Creek Pond is also another good one if you’re looking for a shorter, kid-friendly hike.

What to Bring on a Seattle Day Trip

Here are a few items I recommend bringing on a day trip in Washington for drives near Seattle .

• Raincoat – It doesn’t rain as much in Seattle as people think, but there is the occasional summer storm. Bringing a lightweight raincoat is smart and easy enough to put in your backpack. Amazon | Backcountry.com
• Sunglasses – Contrary to what you may think, it can get very sunny during the summer months, so keep your eyes protected when you’re outside with these glasses. Amazon | Ray-Ban
• Water bottle – Water stations to fill up your water bottle are everywhere in Seattle, so stay hydrated with a refillable water bottle. Amazon | Backcountry
• Backpack – Most of these day trips are pretty active, so it’s helpful to have a small backpack to store your items in while you explore. Ama zon | Zappos
• Comfortable flats – This is one of the most underestimated items to pack, but you’ll be sorry if you walk around all day with sore feet. I swear by Rothy’s because they’re cute, comfortable, and machine-washable. The red o nes are my favorite, as they give a pop of color to your outfit.

Where to Stay After a Day Trip From Seattle

If you’re spending the day out, you’ll want a comfortable hotel to relax in when you get back. Here are a few Seattle hotel recommendations:.

• Inn at the Market – If you want to be right in the center of the action at Pike Place Market, you’ll want to stay here. You’ll have a beautiful view of Puget Sound and be able to head down to the Market in the morning to buy fresh fruit and croissants (rates start at $220 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ) .
• Mayflower Park Hotel – Built in the early 1920s, this hotel has a European feel to it while still providing modern amenities. They have a fitness center if you want to get in an early morning workout and a restaurant and bar so you don’t have to go out if you’re tired from your day trip (rates start at $149 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ).
• Mediterranean Inn – If you want to stay outside the busy part of this city, you’ll enjoy being at this hotel in the Queen Anne neighborhood. You’ll still be around plenty of stores, coffee shops, and restaurants for when you want to go out (rates start at $89 per night on Hotels.com or Booking.com ).

For a very Pacific Northwest feel, check out some of the best Washington Airbnb cabins you can rent. Here are a few other options in the Seattle area:

• Quiet Condo in Seattle Center – This modern Belltown condo has free parking, a pool and is within walking distance of many Seattle attractions (rates start at $155 per night)
• Beautiful Queen Anne Guesthouse – This two-bedroom guesthouse offers stunning views of Elliot Bay and has a deck to enjoy. (rates start at $215 per night)

Hopefully, you’re feeling inspired to get out of the city and take one of these amazing day trips from Seattle after reading this list! I know I enjoy exploring the state, and I know you will too.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

20 thoughts on “ 20 Epic Day Trips from Seattle You Need to Take in 2024 ”

What an informative post! We are spending 5 nights in Seattle after we visit Olympic and I have so much great stuff for us to do now. Thanks for the great site!

I’m so glad you enjoyed it! Have a great trip to Seattle.

Wonderful. I visit my daughter once a year and now have so many great day trips Thank you !

You are welcome! I hope you have fun together.

Wonderful information. Still not sure if we will get to Alaska in May with RoyalC, our second year of trying. So Much to do in Seattle if we are allowed to comej. Must see our cousins on Victoria what ever happens.

I hope you get a chance soon!

We are flying to Seattle in March for 8 days. The original plan was to spend 3-4 days in Vancouver. However with Covid travel restrictions we are rethinking that idea. Any ideas where else we can travel (by car) that’s up to 8 hrs away for a few days outside of Seattle? Don’t know the area. Coming from fl.

Hi Tammy, I actually have a whole post on ideas for a few days out of Seattle: https://postcardstoseattle.com/weekend-trips-from-seattle/

Some of my personal favorites include San Juan Island, Gig Harbor, and Long Beach.

Hi Marissa, I just wanted to drop you a line saying how much I appreciate all your blog posts! I have been busy planning our family roadtrip to Washington, Oregon and California and your tips have absolutely saved me! Thanks to your insights I have been able to decide on where to go and what to see there. I wish you all the best! Pavlina

Hi Pavlina, I love getting comments like this! I started this website years ago to inspire others to explore this beautiful area and to make it easier with my guides, so I’m glad you’ve been using them!

Thanks Marissa. Very nice selection of places to visit. Happy 2023!

Thanks Bobby; I’m glad you liked them!

Hi Marissa, Thanks for this very interesting blog. I might be coming to Seattle in mid January for a business trip to Boeing Everett factory. I’m coming from France so I’m looking at extending my stay in the Seattle area for some more days. I’m expecting the weather to be rainy and cold… so I don’t know what to do and where to go in such weather conditions. Do you have some suggestion for me?

Hi Vincent, yes, I have a whole article dedicated to what to do during the winter! Enjoy your trip. https://postcardstoseattle.com/seattle-winter/

Hi, You mentioned in passing that you went to Western Washington University. I’d love to hear more about your experience at that school. My daughter will be a senior this year and is interested.

Of course, feel free to message me at postcardstoseattle [@] gmail.com.

Thank you so much for the wonderful details! We had great trip covering Bellingham – Whatcom falls, Lunch at Bellingham downtown, SPARK Electrical Museum to catch the 230pm Weekend show, Larabee state park via Chuckanut drive, back to Seattle. One could stopover at the Seattle Premium outlet mall on the way to round it out 🙂

I’m so glad to hear that! As a WWU alumni, I love Bellingham.

Thank you for all of the great information. We’re planning a family Christmas trip and your blog posts are SO helpful!

You’re very welcome! Have a great trip.

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29 top cheap weekend getaways in the u.s..

Weekend getaways are often cheaper by default – especially in these destinations.

Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

Jason Tarr | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best places for an affordable weekend escape.

Sometimes you just need to escape from your everyday routine – but you may not have weeks (or funds) on end to spend away from home. For those seeking a quick, affordable trip, we've compiled a variety of cheap weekend getaways across the U.S., organized by region so you can find something within driving distance to keep costs low (or further afield if you're up for the journey).

Top Regional Destinations:

Burlington, vermont.

Getty Images

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Burlington, Vermont – especially since the best ways to experience it are low-cost or free. Rent bikes and go for a ride on the Burlington Bike Path, which later becomes the Island Line Trail – a stunning pathway over Lake Champlain. You can also stroll Church Street Marketplace, where the Burlington Farmers Market is hosted on Saturdays; sample sweets at Lake Champlain Chocolates; and enjoy a craft beer tasting or two.

Niagara Falls, New York

There's no cost to visit this iconic landmark , and if you want to get up close, you'll find several affordable tours of Niagara Falls – namely boat rides that'll get you up close to the roaring waters. A visit to Niagara Falls, New York, also omits the cost (and hassle) of getting or renewing a passport . Free and low-cost things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking state parks and sampling vinos along the Niagara Wine Trail.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

You can enjoy an affordable weekend in Atlantic City – provided you steer clear of (or don't spend too much time at) the casinos. Instead, explore the beach and boardwalk, whose roots date back to 1870. Other budget-friendly things to do in Atlantic City including visiting Absecon Lighthouse (the tallest in New Jersey) and Lucy the Elephant. If you come here for a romantic getaway , treat yourself and your partner to dinner on the waterfront.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Spend as much or as little as you like in the Pocono Mountains. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the region's terrain affords a variety of free and low-cost activities amid beautiful scenery, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park offer some of the best camping for those who'd like to keep lodging costs low, though you can also find affordable vacation rentals in the area.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park (which also comprises the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center) is free to visit, and there's no cost to explore the Civil War battlefields with a national park ranger. Gettysburg ghost tours – a must for anyone who's interested in the area's haunted history – are relatively affordable, too, as are local hotels , which include options under $200 and $100 per night.

Farm Sanctuary: Watkins Glen, New York

Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes region of New York is part animal sanctuary, part country retreat – and an ideal location for a weekend escape from New York City . Travelers eager for a break can book a tiny home or cabin and spend time with more than 500 rescued farm animals in Watkins Glen. Nightly rentals start at $250 per night (plus a $25 membership fee) for up to two people in May through December, and include a special tour each morning of your stay. Sample the region's signature rieslings and chardonnays at some of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes during your visit, or hike to waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park .

Address: 3150 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park, South Dakota

This area of the U.S. is home to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the fascinating caverns of Wind Cave, making it easy to see several iconic attractions in one jaunt. To save on entry fees, consider the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Priced at $80, it provides access to all national parks and federally protected lands in the U.S., so you'll likely be able to use it for another trip down the road, too.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari ranks among the most affordable amusement parks in the U.S., in part because of its free parking and modest lodging costs. The amusement park also offers complimentary family-friendly perks with admission, including sunscreen and soft drinks.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Courtesy of Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

Wisconsin Dells is home to myriad water park resorts – many of which combine water park admission and overnight lodging in one rate. Other attractions in Wisconsin Dells include a Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, a bustling downtown and plenty of gorgeous scenery marked by unique rock formations. You can frequently find hotel and attraction discounts on the Wisconsin Dells tourism bureau's website ; keep in mind for any family trips that the best prices are typically available when kids are in school.

Branson, Missouri

Courtesy of Explore Branson

Table Rock Lake State Park, where you can swim, canoe, kayak, fish, hike and bike, as well as Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fountain show at night, are among the free attractions in Branson, Missouri . You can also ride a free trolley around town from March to December. The most expensive activity in Branson might be a visit to Silver Dollar City, though you can often find deals on tickets, like discounted evening rates in the fall. For affordable lodging in Branson , try the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel , which often lists rates around $100 per night.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Courtesy of Visit Indy

There are a variety of free things to do in Indianapolis , including the Monon Trail, which connects downtown Indy to the Carmel area, with shops and restaurants along the way; the 250-acre White River State Park, perfect for a picnic lunch; and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which connects the city's public spaces. On the first Thursday of every month, the Newfields Art Museum offers free admission (and whether or not you go to the museum, the grounds alone are worth a visit). In the summer, Concerts on the Canal brings free entertainment to the area – just bring your own blanket or lawn chair.

No matter your budget, a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum is worth the splurge if traveling with kids – it is the largest children's museum in the world.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio

Courtesy of Cedar Point

Not only is Cedar Point one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. – and the self-proclaimed Roller Coaster Capital of the World – but a visit here is also relatively cheap when you factor in the affordability of hotels in Sandusky . The Comfort Inn Sandusky , for example, offers free breakfast with rates starting at less than $100 per night. Keep in mind that, as a seasonal attraction, Cedar Point is typically closed from November to early May.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Read: The Top Water Parks in Ohio

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Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Washington.org

With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in D.C. are expensive, you can still find affordable accommodations on rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores boasts more than 30 miles of white sand beaches , making it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast . You don't have to visit during the summer to experience the area's best weather, though: Spring and fall bring temperatures that are still comfortable for sunbathing, swimming and strolling on the sand.

Budget-friendly things to do in Gulf Shores include bike riding at Gulf State Park; casting a line at Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier; exploring The Wharf, an entertainment and shopping venue; and visiting the Orange Beach History Museum and the Gulf Shores Museum, both of which are free. At local hotels like the Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores , nightly rates for apartment-style accommodations and free breakfast currently hover around $100 a night.

Massanutten Resort: Massanutten, Virginia

An ideal weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. , Massanutten Resort offers four-season fun, from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to golf, mountain biking and water park action during warmer months. A la carte fees for many activities allow you to spend as much or as little as you'd like, and while there's a nightly resort fee, it covers access to the indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, sports courts (including pickleball), hiking trails and more. Plus, the resort fee doesn't seem so bad when you consider that townhomes and guest rooms are available for less than $150 a night.

Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840

Asheville, North Carolina

Krista Rossow | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its mix of history (Biltmore Estate), nature (the Blue Ridge Mountains) and food (from craft breweries to a flourishing dining scene). Travelers can tackle a number of hikes in Asheville for some scenic – and low-cost – fun. You can also stroll along the 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail to learn about the city's unique past, go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and explore downtown, where you're bound to come across some of the tiny city's famous street performers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an easy and relatively affordable day trip from Asheville, too.

Bahia Honda Key, Florida

You don't have to visit Key West – or break the bank – to experience the best of the Florida Keys; in fact, the best beaches in the Florida Keys are not even in Key West. At Bahia Honda State Park, for example, you can swim, rent kayaks and snorkeling gear, or even hop on a boat to snorkel in the Looe Key marine sanctuary reef. Entry fees at Bahia Honda State Park are $8 per vehicle with two to eight passengers. Plus, you can camp here for just $36 per night (not including tax and the utility and reservation fees). Renting a cabin costs about $120 per night plus fees from May through October, and slightly more in the cooler months.

Read: The Best Places for Camping in Florida

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

One of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S., Myrtle Beach is known for its roster of low-cost or free activities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Explore the mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (home to the iconic Skywheel) as well as Broadway at the Beach (an entertainment complex), both of which offer live entertainment including music performances and fireworks shows. Vereen Memorial Gardens, just north of the city, is also free to visit. When it comes to Myrtle Beach accommodations , there are affordable options aplenty; the Crown Reef Resort, for example, offers an on-site, year-round water park and rates as low as $92 per night for a family of four.

Polk County, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Central Florida

A vacation in Orlando has its time and place, but if you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, head to Polk County instead. Here, you can explore stunning (and free) parks and nature preserves such as Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, as well as Bonnet Springs Park. The park connects several attractions, including a kids treehouse, a rooftop bar, a butterfly house, The Florida Children's Museum, botanical gardens and more. Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park are close by if you decide to splurge on a theme park visit.

New Orleans

There are more things to do in New Orleans than you could ever accomplish in a weekend, but you can still enjoy a short and cheap trip to The Big Easy. Ogle the historic houses in the Garden District, stroll along iconic Magazine Street, wander through the French Quarter (where you're bound to see street performers), or stop in a local eatery for a famous po'boy sandwich or beignet. For affordable accommodations in New Orleans , look outside of the French Quarter.

South Padre Island, Texas

Courtesy of South Padre Island CVB

Not only does South Padre Island offer 34 miles of coastline and the cleanest beach water in Texas, but it's also ultra-affordable. Low-cost attractions include Sea Turtle, Inc., which is currently building the world's largest sea turtle hospital, and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of places to enjoy fishing, one of the island's most popular activities. A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site – the last Texas lighthouse open to the public – costs just $5 per adult ($3 for kids). Sandcastle Days, the island's beloved festival that is hosted every October, is also free.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

One of the most beautiful national parks in California , Joshua Tree National Park is also fairly affordable thanks to campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks, where you can enjoy the seclusion of the deserted wilderness. There are more than 100 primitive campsites available here, with reservations required in the busy season from September to May; a maximum of six people can occupy a campsite for just $20 per night (on top of fees to enter the park).

San Luis Obispo, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL

Combining small-town charm with beautiful weather, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles (about 190 miles from the city). With the plethora of outdoor activities here, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly fun like hiking the area's trails, surfing in the ocean, zip lining or horseback riding. For local flavor, visit the Thursday evening farmers market or dine alfresco at one of many downtown patios. The town's free Concerts in the Plaza series features performances by the area's top artists. Beaches await those seeking relaxation in SLO, while wine lovers can explore the region's Edna Valley wineries.

A glitzy getaway in Las Vegas can be yours – and it may be less expensive than you initially imagined. Hotels in Vegas can cost as little as $50 per night on weekdays (plus resort fees), and local attractions like Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Las Vegas Sign and Seven Magic Mountains (just outside the city) are all free to visit. This might just mean you'll have some room in your budget for a casino visit, tickets to one of the city's spectacular shows , and/or a tour of the Grand Canyon .

Sedona, Arizona

Courtesy of Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

It won't cost you a penny to visit most attractions in Sedona , including Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Fay Canyon. And while Sedona's spa and wellness resorts are undoubtedly pricey, you can find lodging for less in off-peak months (summer and winter), as well as a variety of vacation rentals year-round.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Arizona

Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

The Gros Ventre Wilderness, which is part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, is another natural wonder worth visiting. Plan a weekend here to discover rolling rivers, abundant wildlife, and amazing geological features such as rock formations and natural slides. As for accommodations, travelers can rent the cozy Hoback Guard Station cabin for $80 per night for a party of up to six guests from May to October.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is well worth a weekend visit, whether you want to hike, stargaze or explore its more than 70 miles of untouched Pacific Coast shoreline – which include dog-friendly beaches , if your furry friend wants to come along. While here, visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto Beach. You can even camp within the park for as little as $40 per night for up to 10 people sharing a campsite. Note that you'll have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque is quirky and fun, with an Old Town that features cobblestone streets and adobe-style buildings and is free to explore. Plan a visit during spring or fall for the best weather, then take advantage of local, low-cost festivals: May brings the New Mexico Wine Festival ($25 or less per ticket) to town, or come autumn, you can stop by the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (around $15 per person) to witness one of the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. Other things to do in Albuquerque include visiting the Petroglyph National Monument, which is free of charge. Opt for a vacation rental rather than a hotel to save some coin.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is an affordable Texas destination brimming with cultural flair, historical significance and free activities. There's no cost to visit iconic attractions like the Alamo or the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and you won't pay anything to stroll the famous River Walk (though dining at least once here is a must). Another popular activity, narrated river cruises are also cheap, with tickets for less than $15 per person via local operator GO RIO Cruises.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cheap Family Vacations
• The Best Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
• The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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Seven energizing SoCal day trips you can take, even during coronavirus

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One day you will be ready to roam again — really roam across borders, oceans and continents. But for now, let’s start small.

Here, as a mostly homebound school year resumes and we enter our seventh month of pandemic-altered existence, are seven day-trip ideas within a several-hour drive of Los Angeles, some with overnight options, a few with beaches.

Just because they’re open now doesn’t mean you have to visit today. In fact, state officials still urge Californians to avoid nonessential trips. But when you’re ready, these places are too.

No matter where you go, health experts urge you to wear a mask unless you’re eating or in the water. And keep a distance from strangers.

At Torrey Pines State Beach, swim, fish, walk the sand or sunbathe. The beach is 4½ miles long, between northern La Jolla and southern Del Mar, and lined by red-dirt cliffs and Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve (still closed). For a memorable overview of nearby beach, cliffs and sea, park at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, watch paragliders take off, get a sandwich at the Cliffhanger Cafe and sit at one of the outdoor picnic tables.

Plenty of art and architecture await just east of the glider port on the 1,200-acre UC San Diego campus. You can take a self-guided tour among the works of art at the Stuart Collection and and check out the striking academic architecture, including the otherworldly Geisel Library (interior closed) and the crooked little house atop the engineering building.

In La Jolla, you can stroll past the shops, galleries and restaurants on Prospect Street and Girard Avenue. Or go tide-pooling or picnicking along Coast Boulevard near Children’s Pool Beach. There’s also pleasant strolling along the Coast Walk Trail near Cave Street.

Or you could kayak around La Jolla Shores or the cliffs and caves near La Jolla Cove. Co-owner Michael Luscomb said La Jolla Kayak ([858] 459-1114, lajollakayak.com ) resumed rentals in late May, tours in early June. “We’re very strong on weekends,” he said.

For coffee or a snack, head to Pannikin (outdoor seating) at 7467 Girard Avenue. For a fancy dinner, you might try George’s at the Cove, a longtime Prospect Street mainstay whose Level 2 and Ocean Terrace dining areas are open.

Info: sandiego.org

Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach, with its gorgeous stretch of sand, cliffs and rockscapes, once was an artists colony. Now it’s more of a gallerists colony but undeniably pleasant to visit.

Beyond Main Beach (and its landmark blue-and-white lifeguard tower) in downtown Laguna, a path leads from Treasure Island Park (just south of the Montage Laguna Beach resort) to Treasure Island Beach (good for families, tide-pooling and snorkeling). You might not be ready to spend $1,000 for a night at the Montage, but you might consider breakfast, lunch or dinner on the patio at the resort’s Mosaic Bar & Grill . Downtown, there’s plenty of window-shopping among the galleries and shops. And there are three state parks in the area.

Crystal Cove State Park, which stretches from Laguna Beach to Newport Beach, has 3.2 miles of beach, a campground, the Beachcomber Cafe (where you’re invited to order by phone rather than touching a menu) and the Crystal Cove Shake Shack at 7703 East Coast Highway (which, believe it or not, has no website). Before visiting, check the beach website at crystalcovestatepark.org for updates.

Info: VisitLagunaBeach.com

South Bay beaches

Wake up early, bring your bike or rent one and ride the Strand, a paved 22-mile beachfront route that spans Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach and Redondo Beach.

Officially, it’s the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, 14 feet wide and shared by cyclists, skaters, pedestrians and wheelchair users. It can take you far north of the South Bay, through Venice Beach and Santa Monica to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades. The southern endpoint is Torrance County Beach. It’s always busy, so it’s best to try this early in the day, preferably a weekday.

Bike-rental options include Hermosa Cyclery ([310] 374-7816, hermosacyclery.com ) in Hermosa Beach and Marina Bike Rentals ([310] 318-2453, marinabikerentals.com ) in Redondo Beach.

An alternative is to pick one or two piers — Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo each have one — and build a walk. If you’re new to the South Bay, Manhattan Beach is the priciest of these places, Hermosa is more casual and rowdy, and the Redondo Pier and King Harbor Marina are often more diverse.

Need a cool snack? The Manhattan Beach Creamery at 1120 Manhattan Beach Avenue has been a favorite for years.

Info: DowntownManhattanBeach.com , HermosaBeach.gov , Redondo.org

Palos Verdes Peninsula

Start in Redondo Beach and follow Palos Verdes Drive as it loops around the dramatic peninsula to San Pedro. Stop at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Its interior was closed as of Sept. 15, but the grounds are accessible and you can walk along the bluffs. About 2½ miles east, past Terranea Resort (which reopened in June) and across the street from Wayfarers Chapel (visitor center closed), you can walk the pebbly shores and bluffs of Abalone Cove Park in Rancho Palos Verdes (parts of the beach are closed).

End in San Pedro, where you can walk to the Korean Friendship Bell in Angels Gate Park, with wraparound views on a clear day. Or walk the coastal side of the road ( Point Fermin Park ) to see the vintage lighthouse and rocky cliffs. Keep a lookout for brown pelicans, which often fly at eye level. There are pullouts throughout the drive where you can pause to enjoy the view.

For a bite, try Nelson’s, the scenic patio restaurant, at Terranea (walk-in customers are OK).

Info: rpvca.gov , pvestates.org , spcvb.com

Malibu and Topanga

Head up Pacific Coast Highway, enjoy some beach time, then head back through Topanga Canyon. Or vice versa. On this itinerary, you’ll see all sorts of beach scenery and canyon greenery. You might want to linger on the Malibu Pier, where the Malibu Farm restaurant and cafe serve breakfast, lunch and dinner alfresco. The restaurant takes reservations and also serves early dinner; the cafe is first come, first served. You might hike in Malibu Creek State Park (parking is limited; Rock Pool and Century Lake are closed). Or you could enjoy a lazy lunch and swim at Paradise Cove, a selfie-ready nook on the sand that humbly calls itself “the best beach in the world.”

In Topanga Canyon, follow winding two-lane Topanga Canyon Boulevard through country scenes, passing quirky homes, businesses and landmarks with hippie overtones. About 4 miles up Old Topanga Road from the boulevard you’ll find the Los Angeles Horseback Riding ranch ( losangeleshorsebackriding.com ; $100 for an hour).

Info: visitcalifornia.com/experience/malibu

Santa Barbara and Carpinteria

Start at Santa Barbara’s Stearns Wharf and get some sea breeze in your hair. Then peruse lower State Street’s shops and restaurants, especially the stretch from Haley to Sola streets, where local leaders recently banned cars to create an eight-block promenade.

Old Mission Santa Barbara tours and museum are still closed, but the nearby Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The Santa Barbara Zoo is open; advance reservations are required.

South of town, take lovely, two-lane Foothill Road (California 192) between Santa Barbara and Carpinteria. There you can stop and meander Linden Avenue, which ends at a beach with lots of sand and gentle waves. Get breakfast or lunch on the patio at Esau’s Café (507 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-1070, esauscafe.com ; call to check days and hours), where the surfer vibes are thick. Or grab a burger at the Spot (389 Linden Ave.; [805] 684-6311), which has a rustic patio and food to go.

Info: santabarbaraca.com

Coachella Valley

It will be about a thousand degrees here, which explains why you’ll find lots of room. At dawn or dusk, hike in one of the Indian Canyons — Palm Canyon is the most popular — or dawdle in the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens in Palm Desert, with admission by timed ticket. Prowl Palm Canyon Drive, the main drag through Palm Springs, and consider a meal at festive Las Casuelas Terraza (222 S. Palm Canyon Drive; [760] 325-2794), which dates to 1958.

To get the flavor of the valley, you might need a date shake. If so, consider Hadley Fruit Orchards in Cabazon or Shields Date Garden in Indio, which is surrounded by date palms. The Shields shop and restaurant are open (patio dining only). The bad news is that its theater, which has been screening “The Romance & Sex Life of the Date” since 1953, is now closed. The good news is that the film, all 17 minutes of it, is now viewable on the Shields website and YouTube .

Info: visitgreaterpalmsprings.com

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Born and raised in California, Christopher Reynolds has written about travel, the outdoors, arts and culture for the Los Angeles Times since 1990.

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50 Perfect Maryland Day Trip Ideas!

These 50 Perfect Maryland Day Trip ideas are really a great way to explore The Old Line State. There are so many ways to have fun in Maryland. These are all excellent ideas!

The State of Maryland really is America in Miniature. Maryland is a rather small state but wow, it’s jam-packed with fun things to do! One day you can visit a world class museum and the next you could be hiking the Appalachian Trail. There are mountain regions, more beaches than you could ever hope to visit, and a state that is full of historical significance. 

So, where should you even start? Well, I have picked out 50 perfect Maryland day trip ideas for you. These are all places we have visited and loved. And I think you will love these places too! Happy exploring!

Note: There is a Google Map with all these locations at the end of the post!

1. Swallow Falls State Park

This is one of the best, if not the best state park in Maryland. If you take the very kid friendly Canyon Trail you can hit not one, but 4 gorgeous waterfalls in one hike!  | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Swallow Falls State Park

Related: The Best Maryland State Parks for Families!

2. Deep Creek Lake State Park

Spend the day playing in the water and sand at this beautiful mountain lake. You can rent kayaks, there are playgrounds, numerous kid friendly trails, and the newly renovated Discovery Center at the park. | Website

Related: Best Deep Creek Lake Area Hikes for Kids

3. Track’s and Yaks

One of the coolest and most unique outdoor adventures that literally the entire family can enjoy. Have you ever been rail biking? It’s the perfect way to experience a gorgeous area of Maryland. | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Track’s And Yaks!

4. C&O Canal Williamsport/Cushwa

Bring your bikes and scooters! You can easily get on the C&O Canal trail from the Williamsport location. Also, when it’s open, the Cushwa visitor center has great activities for kids! | Website

Related: Best Maryland Lakes for Swimming

5. Hagerstown City Park

This park has so much to offer families. There are two large playgrounds, with one of them being very updated with fun features your kids will love to slide, zip, and climb on. You can feed the ducks (there are loads of ducks), and pop into the FREE Fine Arts Museum! | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Jellystone Park in Williamsport, MD

6. Weverton Cliffs

If you are up for a challenge you will definitely be rewarded. This 1.5 mile each way hike brings you to one of the best overlooks in Maryland! | Website

7. Greenbrier State Park

Our best pick for lake swimming in Maryland. The beach is fairly large with a shallow sandy bottom. This is perfect for toddlers and younger kids. There are also some nice kid friendly hiking trails around the lake! | Review of Greenbrier

8. Gathland and Gambrill State Parks

Two Maryland State Parks that are super close to each other. Gambrill State Park has great overlooks and super kid friendly hikes. Gathland State Park is home to the very instagrammable War Correspondents Arch. There are some great Civil War displays and this park plugs into the Appalachian Trail! | Gathland Website | Gambrill Website

9. Antietam National Battlefield

The site of the bloodiest day in US History. Take the driving tour to get a sense of the battle, and get out and stretch your legs.  | Website

Related: Best Playgrounds and Parks in Frederick County, MD

10. Cunningham Falls State Park

This park is great for families because there is a super easy hike to Cunningham Falls. Then, after the hike you can cool off at the beach/lake swimming! | Website

Related: 8 Gorgeous Maryland Waterfalls

11. Walkersville Southern Railroad

Check the Walkersville Southern Railroad website for special events that range from Bunny trains, Santa trains, Superheroes, Princesses, Teddy Bears and more! This train is very kid friendly and the countryside is just so lovely! | Walkersville Review

12. Tree Trekkers

Do you have a climber? If so, you definitely want to make a reservation to check out this aerial adventure park. There are various levels for younger kids all the way up to teens and adults! | Website

13. Baker Park and Carroll Creek Linear Park

There are so many fun shops and restaurants in Downtown Frederick. If you visit, don’t miss the chance to walk along the canal at Carroll Linear Park and then play at Baker Park! | Website

14. Glen Echo Park

Glen Echo Park was once an amusement park and is now preserved as part of history. You can still ride the carousel (in season), visit the aquarium, play on the playground, and attend a kid friendly show at either Puppet Co. or the Adventure Theatre MTC. | Website

15. Great Falls

The Maryland side of this national park has numerous outstanding waterfall overlooks, access to the C&O Canal towpath, and some super fun hikes. Test your rock scrambling skills on the Billy Goat Trail! | Website

16. Wheaton Regional Park

What’s not to love at this park in Silver Spring? Your kids can spend a few hours playing on the massive Adventure Playground. Pack a picnic lunch, and then ride the miniature train and historic carousel. If you still have energy, pop over to the adjacent Brookside Gardens for a truly lovely nature experience. | Wheaton Review

17. Adventure Park USA

Did you know there is a super fun amusement park in Frederick County? It has rides in the summer, tons of outdoor adventures, and even more fun indoors with ropes courses, bumper boats, laser tag, and more! | Website

18. Seneca Creek State Park

This is a great park for families because Lake Needwood is just totally gorgeous. Hike around the lake or rent a kayak or canoe and get out on the water. Then, let your kids burn energy at the super fun recycled tire playground! | Website

19. Watkins Regional Park

We’re off to see the wizard! Yep, Watkins Regional Park is home to the famous Wizard of Oz playground! But it’s also home to a second super fun horse racing playground, a fantastic nature center, miniature train, carousel, mini golf, and farm animals too! | Watkins Regional Park Review

Related: Ultimate Guide to the Wizard of Oz Playground

20. Jug Bay Nature Area

You will totally dig walking over the marshland on boardwalks and then meandering down the former railbeds. Along the way you can spot loads of wildlife including birds of all kinds, turtles, and more! | Website

Related: 40+ Easy Hikes for Kids In Maryland!

21. Patuxent Research Refuge

Another fantastic nature preserve, Patuxent Research Refuge has an excellent visitor/nature center, and a gorgeous (and super kid friendly) hike around the lake. | Website

22. Piscataway Park

A great historic park to see amazing views of the Potomac. Take a hike on one of the kid friendly trails, and then pay a visit to the National Colonial Farm and say hi to all the animals! Check their website for when history reenactors will be on hand for demonstrations of life in the 17th and 18th century. | Website

23. Jefferson Patterson Park

This fantastic park in Calvert County has fantastic walking trails, a nature playground, visitor center, water access, and historical reenactment sites. A great place to spend a few hours or all day! | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Calvert Marine Museum

24. Blandair Regional Park

This super fun regional park in Howard County boasts not one, but three amazing playgrounds. The North Playground is likely the largest (and most impressive) playground in Maryland. And there is a Ninja Course that will challenge kids and adults of all ages! | Website

Related: Ultimate Guide to Blandair Regional Park

Related: The Best Playgrounds in Maryland (sorted by County!)

25. Centennial Park

Bring your scooter! Walk/scoot around Centennial Lake and along the way play at one or more of their four impressive playgrounds! | Website

26. Baugher’s Orchard

Baugher’s Orchard is a pick your own heaven. Check the latest PYO crops and ride the tractor out to the picking fields. Afterwards, your kids will love exploring the petting farm and playground. And of course, make sure to pick up a treat from their bakery and snack shack! | Baugher’s Review

Related: Best Apple Orchards in Maryland!

27. Old Ellicott City

A great shopping and dining destination that has been devastated by flooding over the years. Still, you can visit a B&O Railroad Museum, grab some ice cream, hit up the fun kid friendly stores, and take a stroll on the Trolley #9 Trail. | Website

28. Patapsco Valley State Park

This sprawling state park has numerous areas to explore. Our favorite is the Avalon/Orange Grove area. Park near the swinging bridge to take a stroll (or bike ride) along the river on the Grist Mill Trail. Or, head up to Cascade Falls, which is a surprisingly short hike (you can make it longer by hiking beyond the waterfall). | Patapsco Avalon Area Guide

29. Kilgore Falls

This waterfall is so lovely it was featured in Tuck Everlasting. Bring your water shoes because one you hike the short distance to the falls, you will want to walk across the river to the other side, where you can get super close to the bottom and top of the falls! | Website

30. Ladew Topiary Gardens

You kind of have to see these gardens to believe them. The topiaries are really so cool.. Crazy what the gardeners do to form the bushes into creatures! The best part though (in my opinion) are the flowers and gardens themselves. There are so many fanciful gardens… you feel like the characters in A Secret Garden. In the springtime you can delight in azaleas, tulips, and more! | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Ladew Topiary Gardens

31. Havre de Grace Promenade

Park at either end of the promenade and walk along the water. Check out the Concord Pt. Lighthouse and your kids will definitely want to burn energy at the Millard-Tydings Park playground. It’s a super fun playground with loads of great play features! | Website

Related: Perfect Havre de Grace Day Trip

32. Jerusalem Mill Village

Officially the headquarters of Gunpowder Falls State Park, Jerusalem Mill routinely has tours and activities on their grounds. It’s a living history museum. Bring your hiking shoes and swimsuits though. You can plug into trails for Lower Gunpowder Falls from here. And in the summer, the river is a very kid friendly place to go splashing and swimming! | Website

33. Sandy Point State Park

Speaking of swimming, there is hardly anything more Maryland iconic than a beach day at Sandy Point State Park. Splash and play on the beach under the watchful eye of the Bay Bridge. | Website

Related: Best Chesapeake Bay Beaches to Cool off this Summer!

34. Kinder Farm Park

In 2020, Kinder Farm Park renovated their playground to turn it from good to simple awesome. When you kids tire from playing, walk over to visit all the farm animals or hit the trails for a family friendly hike. | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Kinder Farm Park

35. Port Discovery Children’s Museum

If you haven’t taken your kids to Port Discovery yet, you must take them asap! Port Discovery is one of the best children’s museums in the nation and for good reason. Our favorite exhibits include the SkyClimber, the Port, Tiny’s Diner, Adventure Expedition, and Wonder of Water! | Port Discovery Guide!

36. Maryland Zoo in Baltimore

I have a love affair with the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore. This zoo is so accessible and fun for kids, especially younger kids. You can get really close to the animals and even feed the giraffes. There are numerous play features, and a lovely petting farm. | Maryland Zoo Guide!

37. Maryland Science Center

Anchoring the Inner Harbor, the Maryland Science Center is basically a bonus Children’s Museum.. But one that appeals to kids from age 0-99. Every time we visit all the kids have a blast, regardless of age. There are exhibits that cater to all ages. And you have to check out both the Planetarium and the IMAX! | Maryland Science Center Review

A great Maryland day trip idea would be to combine the Maryland Science Center with a visit to the American Visionary Art Museum and Rash Field.

Related: 50+ Things to Do With Kids in Baltimore

38. Double Rock Park

This unassuming local park in Middle River is the best hidden treasure we have found. Go down to the river and climb all over the rocks and boulders. You and your kids will have a blast exploring! | Website

Related: Kid Friendly Guide to Double Rock Park

39. Oregon Ridge Nature Center

A super fun nature center with an excellent nature playground, historical exhibits, and kid friendly trails. Don’t miss the painted trees forest! | Website

Related: Fantastic Nature Centers in Maryland

40. Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area

Like Patapsco Valley State Park, Gunpowder Falls State Park has loads of areas to explore. If you want to play on a beach though, the Hammerman Area is where you want to go! | Website

41. Ft. Howard Park

This historical park is really fun and interesting. It’s on the water so that’s fantastic. There is a nice walking/biking path and two playgrounds. The super fun draw though are the battle emplacement ruins you can still explore. Very cool.. If not a little spooky. | Website

A fantastic Maryland day trip idea would be to combine a visit here with North Point State Park and Cromwell Valley Park.

42. Calvert Cliffs State Park

When you think of shark teeth hunting in Maryland, Calvert Cliffs State Park is probably at the top of your must-visit places. The walk is a little long for younger kids (3 miles round trip), but very flat and easy, with tons of interesting places to explore along the way. The small beach is the piece de resistance though. Bring buckets, shovels, and strainers and try to see if you can find a megalodon tooth! | Website

43. Annmarie Sculpture Garden

The Annmarie Sculpture Garden and Arts Center is totally awesome! Yes, I am gushing… it is that great. I wish we lived closer to Lusby, MD so we could visit more often. And don’t let the fact that it is a ‘sculpture garden’ dissuade you. This lovely garden is full of fun, whimsical, and downright enchanting activities for kids. The delightful Fairy Lolly is fantastic for imaginative play. There are public art projects and some really fantastic annual special events. | Annmarie Sculpture Garden Review

Related: Best Shark Teeth Hunting Beaches in Maryland

44. Historic St. Mary’s City

️Historic St Mary’s City is a living history museum.. think Williamsburg but on a smaller scale. St Mary’s City used to be the capital of Maryland and the museum offers hands on glimpses into the 17th century life of area residents. Throughout the city there were demonstrators and docents to explain what life would have been like and offer hands on activities. This is a really unique and totally fun place to visit! | Website

A great Maryland day trip would be to combine a trip here with some fun in the sun at Point Lookout State Park.

45. Point Lookout State Park

Located and the tippy tip of Southern Maryland, Point Lookout stood vigil during the Civil War. Now you can spend a lovely day playing in the sand and cooling off in the water. | Website

46. Elk Neck State Park

Elk Neck State Park in North East, MD is a treasure. The most iconic part of the park is the Turkey Point Lighthouse. The Turkey Point Lighthouse trail is a 1.9 mile loop trail (or you could do out and back directly from the lighthouse). If you do the loop trail, you will find numerous waterfront picnic and small beach areas. It is really such a lovely place to spend the day! | Website

If you want a great idea for a Maryland day trip, combine this with a trip to Plumpton Park Zoo and have dinner at Havre de Grace!

47. Tuckahoe State Park

This great state park is so much fun for both day trips and weekend trips! There are multiple areas to explore. The VisitorCenter has a great aviary, supplies for the disc golf course, and trailheads for over 20 miles of fun trails! 

At Tuckahoe Lake you can rent kayaks and canoes, fish, and kids will absolutely love the recycled tire playground! In the Campfire Loop area there are nature trails and another great playground with a fantastic slide! To make the perfect Maryland day trip, check out Adkins Arboretum next door and make a pit stop at the Idlewild Park in Easton, MD. | Website

Related: Best Things to Do With Kids on the Eastern Shore

48. Ocean City Day Trip

Most people spend a few days or a week at this Atlantic Ocean resort town. However, a day trip is totally doable too! Many people get up early, hit the beach and boardwalk, and then head home after dinner. There are so many fun things to do in Ocean City! | Ocean City fun ideas!

Related: 100 Days of Summer Fun in Maryland!

49. Betterton Beach

Betterton, MD is a fantastic place to spend a Maryland day trip– especially if you have kids! The beach is amazing and doesn’t have jellyfish! There is a great community park with a fun playground. And just a short drive away you can pick fruit and get a scoop of homemade ice cream at Lockbriar Farms!

Related: Best Kid Friendly Betterton Beach Maryland Day Trip Itinerary

50. Harriett Tubman Visitor Center and Byway

This important museum and visitor center is an excellent tribute to a national hero and civil rights legend. Bring your kids and start a conversation about racism, slavery, and equality. The exhibits are really well done and educational for kids and adults.

The mural pictured below is actually not a part of the visitor center. It’s located on the side of the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center and stop #5 on the Tubman Byway road trip! A great Maryland day trip idea would be to combine these spots with a trip to the Chesapeake Maritime Museum and Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. | Website

Perfect Maryland Day Trip Map!

Related: The 100 Best Things to Do With Kids in Maryland!

FAQ about Maryland Day Trips

That depends on what you would like to do and if you are with kids or adults only. On a family trip our top picks are the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, Maryland Science Center and Rash Field, or the National Aquarium. With or without kids ideas include the USS Constellation, the American Visionary Art Museum, and Ft. McHenry. For an adults only trip, check out Fells Point or Hampden.

The Deep Creek area in Garrett County, MD is between 3-4 hours from Baltimore, MD.

That depends on the traffic on the Bay Bridge. With no traffic you can reach Ocean City in 2-3 hours. However, with summer, weekend, or holiday traffic– plan to add at least 1 hour to your trip.

Our top picks for day trips within 3 hours of Baltimore include Washington D.C., Philadelphia, PA, Lancaster County, PA, the Eastern Shore and Chesapeake Bay (not necessarily just Ocean City!), and Frederick County, MD.

The Maryland Department of Tourism splits the state into 5 regions: Capital, Central, Western, Southern, and Eastern.

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Hi! If you love to have fun with your kids and explore, create, travel, laugh, and love.. you have come to the right place! Follow along to get great tips for fun in Maryland, family travel destinations, and other family fun ideas!

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8 Trips Every Mother and Son Should Take Together At Least Once

There comes a time when a Southern mama realizes that the four-year-old boy that used to cling to her leg isn't so little anymore, and that's a mighty sad moment. But like all things, the relationship evolves into something new. Now, you can enjoy each other's company instead of hollering about chores, school, and whatnot. Silver lining, right? Really, there's nothing quite like the bond between mother and son. Every mother just wants to raise a healthy, polite, educated, genteel Southern gentleman that knows you should treat every lady like you would your mother. Which is, like a queen. (Obviously.) Now, that may seem like a tall order—and it is. But our mamas do it every day, and they deserve something special in thanks. A trip, perhaps? *nudge nudge*These mother-son trip ideas are guaranteed to send every duo on a weekend getaway worth remembering. Whether you end up eating barbecue at a famous North Carolina joint , meandering your way down River Street in Savannah, hiking up a Tennessee mountain range, or sinking your toes in the sand on the shores of South Carolina, you'll be doing it together. And that's the most important part. Whether you're sticking with just the two of you or inviting the whole gang to meet you there, it's going to be a blast. He's never too old to hang with his mama, after all. Grab your bags, and get ready for some mother-son bonding. These are the best trips for mothers and sons to take together at least once.

A Road Trip

Just imagine—you, your son, and the open road. Will there be singing along to classic 80s hits? Most definitely. Is somebody going to do too much passenger-seat driving? Most likely. Will there be deep conversations about life? Absolutely. (That's the best part.)

Read more: 7 Reasons You Should Take a Trip with Your Daughter Every Year

A Sightseeing Getaway

Think Nashville's Music Row, New Orleans' Bourbon Street, D.C.'s Pennsylvania Avenue, Savannah's River Street, and Charleston's Rainbow Row. The South is packed with famous streets waiting to be explored. More still, we can't forget about all of the historic squares, cobblestone streets, and skyline steeples.

Read more: Why Charleston Is the South's Best City

An Outdoor Adventure

The South is privy to some breathtaking mountain views, and there's no better way to experience them than hiking, kayaking, and zip-lining your way through the scenery with your game-for-anything dude. Hit the mountains at the turn of the season to catch fall color that will take your breath away.

Read more: 20 Charming Mountain Towns to Visit This Fall

A Game Weekend

Roll Tide! Go Dawgs! Hook 'em Horns! No matter your collegiate affiliation, a gameday weekend is about as fun as it gets in the South. The tailgates are teeming with food , the stadiums are buzzing with school pride, and the streets are rife with rivalry. Ah, football season—we salute thee.

Read more: The South's Best College Towns

A Cultural Trip

Tailor this idea to fit your interests. It might be visiting the King's old stomping grounds, Graceland , in Tennessee. It might be hitting the Texas State Fair and getting a deep-fried Twinkie. It might be touring Ernest Hemingway's haunts, including his favorite bar and former home, in the Florida Keys. It might be chasing your first encounter with Lexington-style barbecue doused in vinegary sauce at iconic Lexington Barbecue in North Carolina. It might be touring the new national memorial and museum, the National Memorial for Peace and Justice , in Montgomery. Go out there, and conquer everything the South has to offer.

Read more: 50 Undiscovered Places You'll Love in the South

A Beach Getaway

If you're both in need of some rest and relaxation, the beach is the easiest decision ever. Sink your toes in the sand, grab a good book, and live a slower pace for a spell. And don't forget to hit a seafood dive (or two, or three).

Read more: The South's Best Beach Towns 2022

A Foodie Weekend

Well, well, well…if it isn't our most favorite trip idea of all. Because spending the weekend thinking only about finding the best food in the South is already what we like to do. Now, it's warranted. Celebrated, even! Get your gumbo in Louisiana, hot chicken in Tennessee, shrimp and grits in South Carolina, barbecue chicken with white sauce in Alabama, and Frito pie in Texas. Pick a city or state, and never (ever!) start counting calories.

Read more: The Most Iconic Dishes from Every Southern State

A Big City Trip

Bright lights, big city: Pick a Southern city neither of you have ever experienced, and hit the streets (preferably, historic cobblestone streets). Between the sightseeing, good eating, and exciting atmosphere, you're set to have a blast worth documenting—so take plenty of pictures!

Read more: The South's Best Cities 2024

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

July 30, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for interesting Virginia day trips? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list is full of some of the best day trips in Virginia. Virginia is a gorgeous Southern state that is full of fun and unique things to do. It is especially awesome if you are a history buff. So much of Virginia’s history is tied into the history of the forming of the United States of America and some of the country’s earliest presidents.

Even if American history isn’t really your thing, we guarantee there is something fun in Virginia for you to enjoy. Some of these day trips in Virginia are centered around its natural beauty, while others highlight the unique history of the state. We’ve also included some fun day trips in Virginia for families as well as fun day trips in Virginia for couples.

We’ve also made sure to include interesting and fun Virginia day trips for the history buffs, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers. Virginia truly does have something for everyone! So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Virginia day trips!

Assateague Island National Seashore

For those looking for Virginia day trips that are fun for the whole family, consider taking a trip to Assateague Island National Seashore . Assateague Island is a portion of National Park that is in both Maryland and Virginia. If you want to make this an extended trip and go camping at Assateague, you’ll need to go to the Maryland portion of the park. Assateague Island is best known for its abundance of wild horses roaming the park.

However, if you are just going for a fun day on the National Seashore, you’ll find plenty to do in the Virginia portion of the National Park. If you are thinking of visiting during the summer months you can expect to see wild foals along with wild horses. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. When you visit the seashore during the colder months, you’ll still be able to see wild horses, and you may even still be able to enjoy some watersports. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can of course walk along the seashore. It’s easily one of the best day trips in Virginia for families

Monticello is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg. It is also one of the best Virginia day trips for history buffs. For those that don’t know, Monticello was the primary home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father and also served as the third President of the United States. It is important to remember when visiting Monticello that it was a plantation and Jefferson did have enslaved peoples working on the property. Please be respectful of that history if you go to tour the home.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll find that they do not try to hide the plantation’s dark past. Instead, you will learn about slavery at the time and how Jefferson profited immensely from this dark practice. As you tour Monticello, you will be reminded that it was built on the backs of enslaved peoples.

This is set against the backdrop of learning about Jefferson and his family life while living in the home. It is often an eye-opening way to look at the history of one of the Founding Fathers. You’ll see how that history has shaped the United States of America as a whole. We guarantee you will leave Monticello having learned something new and impactful.

Luray Caverns

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns . The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia’s underground cave systems. Because it is so popular, you’ll want to make sure you plan to get tickets ahead of time, or have a flexible schedule so you can get tickets for whatever time slots are still available the day of your visit.

The tickets range in price and depend on your age. The caverns also offer various discounts. Luray Caverns are the largest caverns in the Eastern United States and you’ll find some truly spectacular underground rock formations.

The walkways along the tour are all paved and lighted. You’ll walk through a cavern room with a ceiling that is ten stories high, optical illusion rooms, and layers of folded rock. It is called the Geologist Hall of Fame, and once you step foot in the caverns you’ll easily see why.

Colonial Williamsburg

One of the coolest historical places in Virginia is Colonial Williamsburg . It is also one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. When you need a break from the sandy shores, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to Colonial Williamsburg. At Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find the World’s Largest Living History Museum. As you walk all through the Colonial town you’ll find reenactors posing as people who would have originally lived there.

It is a full-scale working village with a blacksmith, potter, baker, brickmaker, farms, and other shops that would have been included in a typical Colonial town. At each one, you’ll find a skilled reenactor who will tell you about the process for creating their goods and wares during the Colonial period. There are also shops where you can purchase the products that are made right there in town. You’ll also find restaurants with delicious period-accurate food, guided walking tours, and even guided ghost tours. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Virginia in one day and a really fun day trip from Virginia Beach.

The Poe Museum

Edgar Allan Poe lived in a few Southern cities and one of those is Richmond Virginia. In Richmond, you can learn more about Poe’s life in Virginia at The Poe Museum . It is where Poe started his literary career and he spent a lot of his life in Richmond writing. Although he moved to Baltimore at the end of his life before his mysterious death, Richmond is where he called home the longest.

The Richmond Poe Museum is one of many Poe Museums in the United States. What makes it different, and one of the most interesting Virginia day trips, is its collection. The Poe Museum in Richmond has the largest collection of Poe artifacts in the world. Inside you can see Poe’s childhood bed, several articles of his clothing, and personal letters. You can also see the famous image of Poe known as the Cornwell Daguerreotype. You can even see a lock of Poe’s hair! It is one of the best day trips from Richmond and is a really cool way to learn about one of America’s most famous authors.

Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

The Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Northern Virginia. You’ll also be close to Charlottesville, so it’s a great option for day trips from Charlottesville as well. It is one of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes full of waterfalls, iconic mountains, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers and grasses. If you don’t have a lot of time on your day trip in Virginia, take Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive takes you through Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Mountains through Shenandoah National Park and eventually meets the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As you travel on Skyline Drive you’ll be able to stop into cute Virginia small towns, admire the view at scenic overlooks, and even go hiking. It’s one of the best National Parks in Virginia. It easily welcomes millions of visitors all year to enjoy its stunning views and landscapes. One of the best times to go is during the Peak Season. This is when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak. It’s a beautiful time to visit, but because of that, it can get very busy. So keep that in mind when you plan your Shenandoah National Park drive .

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the best day trips from Richmond for families and thrill-seekers. For those that don’t know, Busch Gardens is a fun amusement park that is very popular. Busch Gardens is also a great option for day trips from Williamsburg. It is technically in Williamsburg, but it’s a bit outside of the city center.

There are a few Busch Gardens parks in the US, and the one in Virginia has a European theme. So as you walk from ride to ride you’ll feel like you’re walking through quaint European villages. A lot of the food vendors and souvenir shops are also full of European influences.

It is also one of the best day trips in Virginia for families. There are plenty of rides and cool things to do in the park that the kids will love. There is also a waterpark, a petting zoo, and throughout the park, during the day you’ll find animal exhibits. For the adults, there is plenty to do as well. Every year the amusement park hosts an epic Oktoberfest celebration.

It is also one of the few amusement parks in the US where you can buy alcohol throughout the day, all year. That’s because the park is owned by Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company. No matter your age, you’ll find that Busch Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in one day.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are close to Charlottesville and looking for something fun to do, consider taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stretch of road that starts in Virginia and continues down into North Carolina. It follows the Appalachian Mountains, and in particular, the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Appalachian Mountain range. It’s one of the best day trips from Charlottesville if you want to see some spectacular views.

Depending on where you hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s also a great place to add to your list of day trips from Roanoke. All along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find scenic overlooks , easy to difficult hiking trails , cascading waterfalls, and so much more. Depending on how much time you have, you can even venture into North Carolina and drive the parkway for a bit before heading back towards Richmond. As you drive the parkway you can stop in some cute small towns if you’re not up for a more adventurous day trip in Virginia.

Mill Mountain Star And Park

One of the most famous attractions in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star. The Mill Mountain Star can be found in Mill Mountain Park and is easily one of the best things to do in Roanoke when you visit. It also makes for one of the best day trips from Roanoke since it’s not necessarily right in the city center.

The Mill Mountain Star is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up. It’s sort of like the Hollywood sign of Roanoke. It has been lighting up the mountainside since the 1950s, so it’s become a pretty iconic piece of Roanoke history. At the Star, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the city of Roanoke.

Because the Mill Mountain Star is located in a public park, you’ll find other things to do there as well. At the park, you can go hiking, and you’ll need to do a little hiking if you want to get up close to the Star. But there is also a zoo, playground, Discovery Center, and a native wildflower garden. It is one of the best day trips in Virginia for families, but it’s also fun for all ages.

George Washington National Forest

The George Washington National Forest is one of the best National Parks in Virginia . It is also one of the best options for day trips from Richmond if you’re looking to escape the city. It’s a popular camping weekend getaway in Virginia , but it can easily be a fun day trip in Virginia as well. Because it is close to Richmond, it’s one of the more popular National Parks in Virginia, so keep that in mind when you are planning your day trip. Depending on the season, you may encounter more crowds.

The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and there are also lakes and rivers. In the Summer months, you can enjoy watersports in the lakes in rivers, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. There are also certain trails where you can go horseback riding. One of the coolest things to do in the National Forest is going hang gliding. It’s the perfect activity for the thrill-seekers looking for just a little extra jolt of fun at the George Washington National Forest. Of course, the forest is gorgeous in the Fall and you can still enjoy a ton of activities in the forest in Winter and Spring.

Barboursville Ruins And Winery

Barboursville was once one of the finest are largest private residences in Virginia. But on Christmas Day in 1884, a devastating fire ripped through the home and almost completely destroyed it. Since that day in 1884, Barboursville has been preserved as ruins and is one of the best day trips from Charlottesville. What makes it so special is that is the only known structure in Orange County, where it is located, to be designed by Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a prominent member of Virginia society, both before and after his presidency.

The ruins are registered as National Historic Places and are actually one of the day trips in Virginia for couples. That is because the ruins are now home to one of the best wineries in Virginia. The Barboursville Winery was established on the ground in 1976 and has since become a well-recognized winery by wine connoisseurs. You’ll find the tasting room and visitors center just steps from the Barboursville Ruins.

On the grounds, you’ll also find a restaurant that is perfect for one of the prettiest romantic day trips in Virginia. You and your partner can enjoy a day exploring the historic grounds, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious meal. In the Summer, you can also catch ‘Shakespeare in the Ruins’. A local Shakespeare performing company uses the ruins of Barboursville as a stage. The play changes yearly, so you can come back for a different experience every year. The Barboursville ruins are definitely one of the best day trips in Virginia for Couples and easily one of the most romantic day trips in Virginia.

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown

On your list of day trips from Williamsburg , you absolutely need to add a trip to Historic Jamestown and Yorktown. You can drive about 30 minutes outside of Williamsburg and end up in Historic Jamestown or Yorktown, which is part of the ‘Historic Triangle’ in Virginia. Because they are all so close together, we suggest making this a historic tour day trip from Williamsburg. Start in Historic Jamestown, which was originally founded in 1607 by European immigrants.

Jamestown was the first permanent settlement in America for those making the journey from various countries in Europe. You’ll find a living history museum, similar to Colonial Williamsburg, but on a smaller scale. There is also a reconstructed Native American village alongside a Colonial fort, so you can see how Native Americans and European immigrants would have lived in the early 1600s in the area.

In Yorktown, there is another similar site. However, Yorktown wasn’t founded until 1691, over 80 years later. You’ll notice some similarities, but also plenty of differences as generations learned what did and didn’t work in the area. The town is probably best known as the site of the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. It’s where the American Revolution is said to have finally ended, with the surrender of English General Cornwallis. While you are in Yorktown, you can tour the battlefield as well as the American Revolution Museum. A journey to the two historic cities is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is actually in three states; West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Depending on what you’re interested in, the different states offer different experiences. The Maryland section is mainly hiking trails and scenic views along the Potomac River.

West Virginia and Virginia share the section of the park that has some really cool historic buildings. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best small towns in West Virginia that you should explore.

Because of its location, it’s a great option for day trips from Northern Virginia.

Just like so many other places to visit in Virginia in one day, the National Historic Park is bursting with history. You’ll find a historic town with 19th-century buildings and see what it was like to live in a port town. There are living history events, local artisans, and more. You’ll also find hiking and biking trails as well as enjoy watersports like swimming, kayaking, and boating.

Keep in mind that when you are planning your trip, you may find that the trailheads or destinations you have in mind may be across the border in either Maryland or West Virginia. Either way, it’s still one of the most fun day trips in Virginia.

Make sure to check out our list of things to do in Harpers Ferry!

Mariners’ Museum And Park

If you’re looking for interesting day trips in Virginia for families, consider a day at the Mariners’ Museum and Park. It is close to Virginia Beach, so it’s one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. The Mariners’ Museum is in Newport News which is just about an hour inland, so you won’t have to travel too far to learn about Virginia’s interesting maritime history.

Throughout the museum, you’ll find exhibits that are interesting to both the youngest and oldest members of the family. On certain days of the week, kids can enjoy storytime with a maritime theme. There are also hands-on exhibits, crafts, and more that they can do while they are learning about Virginia’s maritime history.

There are also plenty of more in-depth exhibits for the older members of the family. One of the coolest areas of the museum is the gallery of Ship Models that show popular ship designs through the centuries. The Mariners Park is free to the public and is considered to be a beautiful woodland oasis. Inside the park, you can stroll along the popular Nolan Trail, admire nature, or stop for a picnic lunch at the Lions bridge. Mariners’ Museum and Park are absolutely one of the best day trips in Virginia for families!

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Thanks to popular novels, lighthouses have become an almost romantic iconic image along the sandy shores of any beach town. If you’re looking for some romantic day trips in Virginia, you and your partner can spend the day exploring the historic lighthouse at Cape Henry. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is within 15 minutes of Virginia Beach, which also makes it one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach for you and your partner to take.

At the Cape Henry Lighthouse, you can take a tour of the lighthouse, climb up to the top, and explore the grounds around the lighthouse as well. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and was commissioned by George Washington with Alexander Hamilton overseeing its building. It was built close to where European immigrants first landed before establishing the Jamestown colony. If you are looking for day trips in Virginia for couples who like a little bit of history and the beach. It’s also one of the most interesting Virginia day trips.

With so much history and culture in the state, it is easy to make a list of fun places to visit in Virginia in one day. We hope you enjoyed this list of unique historic sites, hidden gems, and small towns that are spread throughout the beautiful state. You can’t go wrong taking a day to explore these amazing spots on your next Virginia day trip.

Day trip ideas in Upstate NY: 40 fun places to visit

• Published: May. 04, 2017, 12:00 p.m.
• Alaina Potrikus | [email protected]

Photo: Sylvan Beach Amusement Park at dusk. Scott Schild | [email protected]

By Alaina Potrikus | Contributing writer

» Check out our updated list, now with 59 day trips

A day trip in Upstate New York  can lead to all kinds of adventures. Take a selfie with statues of women's rights legends Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. Chase waterfalls from Niagara to the gorges of Ithaca to Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks. Get wet at water parks in Canandaigua or Old Forge, and catch sunsets on Million Dollar Beach in Lake George or atop Mount Defiance at Fort Ticonderoga. Check out these ideas when planning your next day trip in Upstate New York.

Photo: Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Animal Adventure Park

Spend the day with  Upstate New York's most famous giraffe, April, and her new offspring. The  private zoo in Harpursville opens for the season on May 13, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is cash-only (with an ATM on site), and visitors can purchase food for various animal encounters (carrots for the camels and giraffes are $3, grapes for the monkeys and lemurs are $2). The park's other inhabitants include zebras, black bears, buffalo, pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, a mountain lion and Tibetan yak. The park is about a 15-minute drive from Binghamton; grab lunch at the  Main Street Grill and Bakery in nearby Afton, designed to mimic the pace and menus of eateries in New York City.

View this post on Instagram Recognize this kitchen?! Maybe if I posted it in B&W... It's the kitchen from I ❤️ Lucy! #tourlife #ilovelucy #jamestown A post shared by Rachel Brown (@rachelbrownmusic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 2:10pm PDT

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Hit the road for Jamestown, hometown of famed comedienne Lucille Ball. The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum is home to reproductions of the sets from the television show, "I Love Lucy," Ball's Emmy awards, props, costumes and rare memorabilia from the legendary 1950s comedy television show.  Look for the multi-story mural of the iconic Vitameatavegamin advertisement, as well as a depiction of the conveyor belt scene in the chocolate factory. In the nearby village of Celeron, visitors can take a selfie with a bronze statue of Ball made headlines in recent years. The original  "Scary Lucy" statue was replaced last summer with a more flattering sculpture, which shows Ball in a polka-dot dress. Also nearby: Southern Tier Brewing Company , which offers tours and tastings throughout the week (check their website for hours, which change seasonally).

Photo: Main Street in Beacon. Dominick Fiorille for NYup.com

For art, antiques and culinary delights, spend a day in Beacon, located on the Hudson River in Dutchess County. The  DIA art museum is located in the former Nabisco box factory and houses an impressive collection of large-scale contemporary exhibits. More galleries are scattered throughout downtown Beacon, along with antique and jewelry stores and farm-to-table restaurants and brewpubs. Grab lunch at the Dr. Who-themed restaurant,  The Pandorica , or bring home baked good from the Beacon Bread Company . For unique souveniers, visit Dream in Plastic, a quirky toy shop, or  Hudson Beach Glass, which features glass-blowing demonstrations and a sculpture gallery.

Photo: Scott Schild | [email protected]

Strong National Museum of Play

For a family-friendly day trip, head to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. Little kids will love the reproduction of  Sesame Street, where Big Bird overlooks the famous stoop at 123 Sesame Street. Kids of all ages — and adults too — will enjoy the Wegmans Super Kids Mart , with child-sized grocery carts, shelves filled with lifelike products and a working checkout station where pint-sized cashiers can scan their own bar-coded items. Parents will enjoy a stop at the Toy Halls of Fame , which includes classic toys from the past, from Etch-a-Sketch and G.I. Joe to Atari and Easy Bake Oven. Don't forget to stop by the  Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York, and take a ride on the restored 1918 carousel  and the Strong Express, an indoor locomotive. Have lunch at the Strong's cafeteria , with a la carte options including Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Subway, or have a sit-down meal at Bill Gray's Restaurant or at the vintage Skyliner Diner located in the museum's atrium.

Letchworth State Park

Heralded as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park boasts nearly 600-foot cliff walls and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. More than 66 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, as well as amenities for whitewater rafting and kayaking ,  seasonal hot balloon rides, horseback riding and biking. Be sure to check out Inspiration Falls, the state's tallest plunging waterfall with a total drop of over 350 feet. In the evening, visit the Charcoal Corral and Silver Lake Twin Drive-In Theater in nearby Perry, with an 18-hole mini-golf course, giant inflatables, weekly car cruise-ins, live music and outdoor double features on the weekend.

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

The 9,800-acre site outside of Seneca Falls  is home to six active bald eagles nests, with observations of nearly 60 eagles in recent years. Take a one-mile hike along the Seneca Trail from the Visitor Center, or stay in your car for the 3.5-mile Wildlife Drive through the preserve. Binoculars are available for loan to help visitors see waterfowl, herons and other marsh birds, Canada geese, bald eagle, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey, and shorebirds. Other wildlife sightings include muskrat, white-tailed deer, mink, fox and coyote. Cap your visit with a trip to Montezuma Winery  in Seneca Falls, known for dry to sweet wines including riesling, blueberry, rhubarb and the most popular, Cranberry Bog. The winery is also home to Hidden Marsh Distillery , which produces brandy, whiskey and liqueurs from locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out the flagship Bee Vodka, handmade in small batches from New York honey.

Photo: Gary Walts | [email protected]

Sackets Harbor

Take a step back in history at the  Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site , where two crucial battles of the War of 1812 took place overlooking Lake Ontario. The site hosts numerous activities throughout the year, with living history reenactments, cannon and artillery demonstrations and other educational opportunities. Families will enjoy a side excursion to Old McDonald's Farm , where visitors can hand-feed beef cows and dairy goats, ride a pony and take a tour of the farm via tractor. For meals, head into the village for brick oven pizza at  Goodfellos or dinner or brunch in the courtyard of Tin Pan Galley . Try the 1812 Amber Ale or Thousand Islands Pale Ale at Sackets Harbor Brewing Company , and end your visit with a scoop from Saturdays, Sundaes & More , the village ice cream shop.

Lake Placid

The two-time home of the Olympic Games isn't just a winter destination. The  Lake Placid Olympic Center is open year-round; the complex houses the rink where the U.S. Hockey Team's Miracle on Ice took place in 1980. For an active visit, check out High Peaks Cyclery , which offers mountain bike, kayak, canoe and hiking gear rentals to explore the Adirondack Mountains year-round.  SUP Lake Placid rents stand-up paddle boards and kayaks on Mirror Lake, and hosts outdoor yoga classes. For an easy day hike, head to nearby Cascade Mountain , one of the easiest High Peaks to climb with a spectacular panoramic vista at the summit (4,098 feet). Take a break with a drink at Big Slide Brewery ,  Lake Placid Pub and Brewery or the Great Adirondack Brewing Company .

Photo: Stephen D. Cannerelli | [email protected]

Sterling Renaissance Festival

Spend a day in an authentic English Renaissance village, where a cast of royals, townspeople, thieves, beggars, artisans and craftspeople transport visitors to the realm of Warwick, England, in 1585. Daily activities at the 35-acre park include parades, jousts and duels, archery demonstrations, period music and dancing, and performances on 12 stages, including a "Wench auction." The  menu is fit for a royal feast, with turkey legs, steak-on-a-stake, mile high cakes and adult beverages including ale, wine and mead. Rent a period costume near the main entrance or purchase apparel, jewelry, headpieces, armor and weaponry at the Royal Marketplace.  Themed weekend celebrations include an Ale Fest, Highland Fling, Pirate Invasion and Fantasy, Fairies and the Future. Admission is $24.95 for adults, $12.95 for children; tickets can be purchased in advance online .

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

The Finger Lakes  community of Corning offers a ton of activities for visitors of all ages. No trip to Corning is complete without a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass ; sign up ahead of time to make your own glass project with the help of experts, or stop into one of the group glassmaking demonstrations held throughout the day. Spend the rest of your day exploring the "Crystal City," starting at the Rockwell Museum , a Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring American artists. For lunch or dinner, head over to the Gaffer District , which has been  recognized by Bon Appetit as a notable destination for food along the Appalachian Trail. The area has grown to include over 45 restaurants and over 50 places to shop for unique items; end your day with a treat at the  Old World Cafe and Ice Cream shop, featuring a Victorian ice cream counter and old-fashioned homemade candies.

Photo: Joed Viera for NYup.com

Salamanca and the Enchanted Mountains

Known as the Enchanted Mountain  region for its picturesque scenery,  Allegany State Park offers sandy beaches, 18 different hiking trails and 5.6 miles of bike trails for outdoor adventures. Head to the Red House area of the park, where a Tudor-style administration building overlooks the lake and offers a restaurant with a full menu and patio seating . Step into the past at the Salamanca Rail Museum , a fully restored passenger depot that dates to the early 1900s. Try horseback riding at Crosspatch stables , which offers guided trail rides and Chuckwagon dinners. Before heading home, try your luck at  Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, with slot machines, table games, restaurants and other activities.

Photo: Robert Mescavage | Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain welcomes visitors year-round for outdoor activities and draws big crowds for music festivals, like the Taste of Country Music Festival  and Mountain Jam Fest . Take a scenic skyride to the 3,200-foot summit of Hunter Mountain, where you can see the high peaks of the northern Catskills, the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of Vermont. For a more adventurous ride, check out New York Zipline Adventure Tours , the longest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America featuring over five miles of ziplines, some reaching heights of nearly 600 feet above the ground. The Hunter Mountain resort also offers fly fishing , 4-by-4 off road adventures , hiking ,  golf and disc golf . Try a local brew at  Hunter Mountain Brewery, which offers a full lunch and dinner menu, outdoor dining and live music.

Photo: NYup.com archive

The home of the world-famous Boilermaker Road Race , the city of Utica has been growing its offerings for visitors in recent years. The Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute  is home to a permanent collection of 300 years of American painting, 19th-century decorative arts, European Modernism and Japanese prints. Tour the  Saranac brewing facility on Varick Street and try pints or flights in the 1888 Tavern tasting room. Kids will love the  Utica Zoo or the Utica Children's Museum , both small facilities that serve up big fun for all ages. For a culinary tour, be sure to try Utica's signature  chicken riggies (at the Chesterfield Restaurant ), Utica greens (a la Georgio's Village Cafe ) and  tomato pie (try Roma Sausage & Deli ) and halfmoon cookies for dessert (check out Holland Farms Bakery ).

View this post on Instagram It may not feel like spring yet, but the flowers are always blooming at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. #ILoveNY 📷: @markdanielharley A post shared by I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveny) on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:47pm PDT

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Built in 1900, the nearly  12-acre conservatory and surrounding formal gardens offers visitors a chance to experience the flora of the Florida Everglades, the Panama cloud forest, the American desert and the Asian rainforest. The centerpiece is the glass conservatory, modeled after the famous Crystal Palace in England. Be sure to visit the Palm Dome, a 67-foot-tall room filled with palms and tropical fruit trees. A new exhibit highlights aquatic gardens and the Asian rainforest, with a peaceful pond (and a family of koi fish), waterfall, moon gate and collection of orchids and bonsai. Kids will love the Wegmans Family Garden, where they can plant seeds, build sand castles, water the garden and take part in other activities. The outdoor gardens include a Peace Garden and Healing Garden.

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Start your day in the historic downtown business district, where flag-lined sidewalks connect visitors to the shops, restaurants and events that keep the community bustling with activity. Pack a picnic and head to Lakeland Park, located across from the Brae Loch Inn  at the intersection of Forman and Albany streets. The picturesque park includes a dock and diving board and sandy beach. Lifeguards are on duty from June to August; a public bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Take a drive to nearby Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall that dates back more than 10,000 years. A trail winds through the 194-acre park, which offers picnic areas and fishing. Or head to Stone Quarry Hill Art Park , a 104-acre property filled with outdoor sculptures nestled along four miles of trails. Kids will love Critz Farms , a year-round agritourism destination that offers U-pick fruit crops, a giant playground and barnyard petting area (Be sure to check out the gift shop for local treasures and  Harvest Moon Cidery and Winery for adult beverages). For dinner and drinks, wine lovers can head north of the village to  Owera Vineyards, with a tasting room overlooking Cazenovia Lake and brick oven serving up tasty flatbreads. For a local brew, head south of the village to Empire Farmstead Brewery , a new stop on the local brewery trail that features an outdoor dining space to enjoy flights and pints.

Windmill tours

Since the early 2000s, wind turbines have been popping up across Upstate New York. The  giant towers have drawn onlookers since the beginning, and several of the wind farms have installed visitors centers to allow interested tourists to get a closer look at the clean energy giants. At the FREE Center in Fenner , informational kiosks that outline the renewable energy efforts in Madison County are set up off of Bellinger Road. Visitors can picnic beside one of the towers, which weighs more than 187 tons and stands 212 feet from the ground to the center hub, and 329 feet from the ground to the tip of a blade at its full height.  Check out the full-size turbine blade on the ground to get a sense of the size and weight of the structures.  Maple Ridge Wind Farm , New York State's largest wind farm, is located in Lowville in Lewis County, with 195 turbines that produce enough electricity to power approximately 136,000 homes, about 2 percent of New York State's residential electricity need. Pull over at the  visitor's center kiosk on Eagle Factory Road off Route 177 for a panoramic view of the 21,000 acre site on the Tug Hill Plateau, about 75 miles northeast of Syracuse.

View this post on Instagram I love salad yes I do, I love salad how about you?🤗😂🥗🥒 #eatyourveggies #eatyourgreens A post shared by Victoria Tschopp (@victoriatschoppp) on Apr 27, 2017 at 9:50am PDT

Culinary Institute of America

For a taste of the Hudson Valley , head to Hyde Park, where a group of restaurants  run in conjunction with the Culinary Institute of America are serving up unique cuisine. There's  Ristorante Caterina deMedici for Italian lovers, the  Bocuse Restaurant for a French fine dining experience, and American Bounty Restaurant and Tavern , focusing on regional and seasonal products. Bring home a sweet treat from the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe, with baked goods and desserts like red velvet, carrot cake and pineapple upside down cake macarons, Nutella doughnut holes, lemon elderflower eclairs and classic apple pie. The restaurants are part of the educational experience for students at CIA, who spend time in both the front and back of the house to learn and master the full scope of restaurant operations under the guidance of expert chef-instructors.

Photo: Teri Weaver | syracuse.com

Skaneateles

The  Finger Lakes community draws visitors each year for the crystal clear waters of Skaneateles Lake and the quaint culture of the picturesque downtown. Take a cruise of the 16-mile-long lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers lunch cruises featuring Dinosaur BBQ, romantic dinner cruises and more family-friendly sightseeing cruises aboard a the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship. Explore the downtown shops, restaurants and galleries at your leisure, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape. Landmark restaurants include the Sherwood Inn , Doug's Fish Fry ,  The Krebs and Blue Water Grill . Enjoy an afternoon tasting at Anyela's Vineyard , which overlooks the village, or head to  Mirbeau Inn and Spa for a day of relaxation at the estate built to mimic the French landscapes of Claude Monet.

Photo: Kate Collins | [email protected]

Women's Rights National Historic Park

Step back in time in Seneca Falls  to learn about the efforts of women's rights leaders and other reformers in the 19th century. Start your day at visitor center to pick up maps and daily schedules — be sure to check out the life-size bronze statues of the women and men who organized the first Women's Rights Convention, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass. Head to the adjacent Wesleyan Chapel , where the convention was held in 1848, and follow the tour to the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton , which the famous suffragette called the "Center of the Rebellion." Be sure to stop by the National Women's Hall of Fame , which honors more than 250 women from Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. (Note: a new home for the hall and the Center for Great Women is under construction at the 1844 Seneca Knitting Mill ; for now, it remains at a historic bank building on Falls Street in the heart of downtown.)

Photo: Jeff Goulding for NYup.com

Mohonk Mountain House

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley , the Victorian castle resort built in 1869  has served as a getaway for the Rockefellers, Andrew Carnegie and five U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford B. Hayes, William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton.  Day guest packages  allow visitors to enjoy the amenities of the resort without spending the night.  Spa packages  include access to the eucalyptus steam room, sauna and outdoor heated mineral pool; reservations at any of the  award-winning restaurants comes with access to the resort and grounds for the day.  Day passes for hiking include access to 85 miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Take the three-mile hike to the Sky Top Tower, a 100-foot-tall stone building at the peak of the preserve with panoramic views of the Catskills, or enjoy the woodlands on horseback or by horse-drawn carriage . Tennis packages are available, along with tours of the historic house , greenhouse and Victorian gardens and afternoon tea and cookies. The other recreational activities at the resort include disc golf, rock climbing, boating, golf, mounting biking, archery and tomahawk throwing.

Photo: The Associated Press

Watkins Glen

For a fast-paced adventure, head to Watkins Glen International , where racing weekends feature sports car, endurance and stock car events. Visitors can experience the iconic racetrack themselves  by driving their own vehicle around the 3.4-mile Grand Prix circuit behind a pace car . After two laps, cars will have their photos taken the start/finish line. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival  also draws crowds to the site. Other Watkins Glen excursions: Farm Sanctuary , a 175-acre refuge for more than 500 rescue animals; Watkins Glen State Park , known for its gorge trail and 19 waterfalls; and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , with more than three dozen wineries and vineyards, plus a growing number of  breweries and distilleries .

Tupper Lake

Advertised as the "High Line of the Forest," the  Wild Walk  gives visitors a chance to walk among the trees on a trail of bridges at the  81-acre Adirondack campus . The park includes a four-story twig tree house, a spider's web-like net for climbing, and a nest that visitors can climb into to see the view from 42 feet in the air. While in Tupper Lake, stop by  Little Wolf Beach , one of the largest public beaches in the Adirondacks, with lifeguards watching over a floating dock with trampoline and rope swing. Or take in a movie at  Adirondack State Theater , which opened its doors in 1914.

Photo: Mike Lynch for NYup.com

Santa's Workshop

Guaranteed to delight young audiences year-round,  Santa's Workshop  near  Whiteface Mountain  has been an Adirondack tradition since 1949. The storybook village includes Santa's House, the reindeer barn, a bakery, candy shop, blacksmith and toy shop. Rides include a sleigh coaster, bobsled ride, Candy Cane Express train, ferris wheel and Christmas carousel. Summer hours at the park are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, from June 27 to Sept. 3. Autumn and winter hours vary.

Ausable Chasm

Billed as the  Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks , the sandstone gorge south of Plattsburgh offers spectacular views of primeval rock formations including Elephant's Head, Column Rock Hyde's Cave and Jacob's Well. The adventure center offers a variety of activities, from low-intensity hiking to more adventurous rock climbing, rappelling and cliff walks. Visitors can tube or raft down the Ausable River (bring water shoes), experiencing the towering cliffs, rapids and whirlpool basin. Fifteen miles of mountain biking trails for beginner and advanced riders wind through the Adirondack terrain.

Michael Franklin | UpstateAerialPhotography.com

Thousand Islands

Explore the  Thousand Islands  with a  boat tour , where seasoned guides share the stories of the more than 1,800 islands that cover 50 miles of the St. Lawrence River between New York and Canada. Set aside time to explore Heart Island, home of the six-story, 120-room  Boldt Castle  with an indoor pool, stunning grounds and panoramic views of the St. Lawrence. Weekend festivities take over downtown  Alexandria Bay  throughout the summer, with live entertainment for the whole family.

Photo courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga

Fort Ticonderoga

Located at the southern end of Lake Champlain, the  Fort Ticonderoga  facility recreates life in the mid-1700s with musket firing demonstrations each day at 11 a.m. and cannon firing demonstrations at 2 p.m. In addition to military history, have a picnic atop  Mount Defiance , where panoramic vistas include Lake Champlain and the High Peaks; reach the picnic pavilion by car or hike up the mountain trails once traversed by troops.  Rent a canoe  to explore the fort by water, or take a  boat tour  of the Ticonderoga Peninsula aboard the 49-passenger tour boat Carillon.

Photo courtesy of Enchanted Forest Water Safari

The fun never stops at  Enchanted Forest , the state's largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions. The water park includes relaxing tube rides to high speed slides, including the newest double-tube ride "The Silverback," a 100 foot drop into a large 40-foot-diameter bowl. Need a  break from the water park?   Take a six-mile paddling tour of the Moose River and return via the  Adirondack Scenic Railroad . For an aerial view of the High Peaks,  ride the scenic chairlift to the top of McCauley Mountain.

Photo: raddiec via flickr

Lake George

Nicknamed "Queen of the American Lakes,"  the resort town north of Albany  has been a favorite since the late 19th century, when John D. Rockefeller was a regular visitor. Spend the afternoon at  Million Dollar Beach at Lake George Beach State Park , named one of the best beaches for families for its cleanliness, public facilities and panoramic views of the lake and Adirondacks. Hop aboard the  Minnie-ha-ha , one of the last steam paddlewheel boats in America, for an hour-long cruise of the lake at sunset (or catch fireworks on Thursdays during the summer).

Saratoga Springs

Place a bet on the thoroughbreds at  Saratoga Race Course , the third oldest race course in America.  Races run six days a week,  and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drink for a picnic.  Walk through the downtown business district to  Congress Park , where you can take a ride on the  historic wooden carousel . Drive down the Avenue of the Pines to enter  Saratoga Spa State Park , where you can walk past the marble colonnades and reflecting pool of the spa complex. Grab tickets for a nighttime concert at the  Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

The shelter  cares for farm animals that were victims of cruelty and neglect, rescued from stockyards, auctions and slaughterhouses. Each of the sanctuary's animals has a name and a story, including Clyde, a chicken found on the streets of New York City; Harper and Atticus, a pair of goats whose mother was rescued from a downstate farm; and Elvis, rescued while awaiting sale to at a veal auction.  Expect to interact with the animals - some of the pigs enjoy belly rubs, and sheep are likely to nuzzle you as you walk through the pasture. Tours are given on weekends, and a cafe offers vegan food options.

Howe Caverns

The  underground limestone cavern  is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast and the second most visited natural attraction in New York State (after  Niagara Falls ). A 90-minute walking tour and boat ride takes visitors 156 feet below the ground to stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake millions of years in the making. Above ground, the  High Adventure Park  includes a zip line, ropes course, rock wall and the H20-GO Ball, a 12-foot inflatable ball that takes riders down a 1,000-foot hill.

Photo: Kathe Harrington for NYup.com

Chittenango

Get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and domestic animals that were hand-raised at  The Wild Animal Park . The stars of the park are a pair of giraffes — Jase and Jasmine — which visitors can hand feed from a new deck.  While you're in Chittenango , take a walk down the Yellow Brick sidewalk to the  All Things Oz museum , a tribute to the village's native son L. Frank Baum, author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Adults can stop at the  Yellow Brick Road Casino , which opened in May 2015. Or head up to  Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall.

Sylvan Beach

The vacation community on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake is perfectly sized for a day trip. Spend the afternoon at  Sylvan Beach Amusement Park , a throwback to the town's early resort days with a vintage Kiddieland with 10 rides for smaller guests, classic arcade games like Skeeball, the Galaxi steel roller coaster and bumper boats.There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone and stroll through the downtown district after catching the sunset on the beach.

Photo: Dennis Nett | [email protected]

Cooperstown

You can start at the  National Baseball Hall of Fame , but there is a lot more to do in this lakeside community.  Plan a side trip to the  Farmer's Museum  and ride the Empire State Carousel. Or walk the grounds of  Hyde Hall,  a 50-room mansion overlooking  Otsego Lake , and take a walk on the beach at  Glimmerglass State Park.  Enjoy a tasting at one of the six stops on the  Cooperstown Beverage Trail ;  Brewery Ommegang  offers a cafe menu of Belgian favorites (try the frites — handcut fries that are twice fried and served with dipping sauces).

Niagara Falls

Cross this one off your  bucket list : A trip to see one of the natural wonders of the world. Board the  Maid of the Mist boat tour  to get within soaking distance of Horseshoe Falls; for an even wetter experience, take the  Cave of the Winds  tour, where a poncho is required for the Hurricane Deck that brings visitors beneath Bridal Veil Falls.  End your day with fireworks,  which go off at 10 p.m. every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from May 1 to Oct. 31.

Ellicottville

Start your visit at Holiday Valley's  Aerial Park , a series of platforms, bridges and zip lines that create 13 different courses (the largest in New York State). Check out the climbing forest — a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall that is one of only three in the United States. Take a ride on the Mountain Coaster, a roller coaster ride down the terrain that includes curves, jumps and spirals. After an adventurous day, enjoy the  small-town charm of Ellicottville  and take home a sweet treat from  Watson's Chocolates , known for its sponge candy.

The 15.5-acre  Seneca Park Zoo  is the perfect size for children and adults alike. African lions prowl a savannah-like enclosure in the "A Step Into Africa" exhibit, which also is home to elephants and olive baboons. While in Rochester, try the city's signature dish at Nick Tahou Hots, home of the  "Garbage Plate,"  — where customers choose two selections of eggs, grilled cheese, fried ham, fried haddock, a cheeseburger, hamburger, red hot, white hot, Italian Sausage or chicken tender and two sides. And if you're on a budget, there are several  free things to do in Rochester .

Provided photo

Roseland Park

The 56-acre  Roseland Water Park  offers attractions for the entire family, from a splash pad for little kids, a lazy river for adults, a family raft ride that mimics whitewater rafting, a wave pool and high-intensity slides like the Cliff, which drops riders 65 feet at speeds of 30 mph. For a bigger rush, head over to the new  Roseland Wake Park,  the first full-sized cable wakeboarding park in the Northeast that pulls riders through a 2,100-foot continuous loop course on the lake that includes ramps and rails for tricks and stunts.

Photo: Lauren Long | [email protected]

Finger Lakes

Visit the  Women's Rights National Historical Park  and the  National Women's Hall of Fame  and take a selfie with statues of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott. Take a stroll through  Seneca Falls , the quaint community that is widely believed to be the inspiration for Frank Capra's holiday classic, " It's A Wonderful Life ." Plan to visit several of the wineries on the  Seneca Lake Wine Trail,  including Belhurst Castle in Geneva, where you can dine at outdoor tables overlooking the lake. Not up for a wine tour? Make time to shop at  Waterloo Premium Outlets  or spend several serene hours birdwatching at  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

With more than  150 waterfalls within 10 miles  of Ithaca, you don't have to go far for a spectacular view. Check out  Taughannock Falls State Park,  home to a 215-foot waterfall (three stories higher than Niagara Falls) and walk the gorge and rim trails.  Robert H. Treman State Park  offers public swimming at the stream-fed pool beneath Enfield Falls; nine miles of trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. After a day of hiking, enjoy the atmosphere at the newly renovated  Ithaca Commons,  a four-block pedestrian area with more than 100 shops, restaurants, street vendors and street entertainers.

Read more: Summer bucket list for Upstate NY

Have the best summer ever:  45 fun things you must do before fall .

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Best Unique & Fun Ideas for Day Trips from NYC

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 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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22 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas You’ll Absolutely Love

Posted on Published: December 15, 2022  - Last updated: April 4, 2024

Looking to escape the busy city of Las Vegas? Of course you are! There’s so many amazing adventures just minutes away. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Las Vegas, here’s your list!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Las Vegas has a reputation for shopping, dining and casinos – and it lives up to the hype! But if you’re craving adventure – or some nature – taking a day trip from Las Vegas is a great way to do just that.

Leave the crowded strip and hit the road!

Some of the best day trips are just 20 minutes away, while others will take you away the entire day from sunrise to sunset (or beyond). Whether you’re traveling solo , celebrating a birthday in Vegas with friends, as a couple or with your family, there’s something on this epic list of day trips from Las Vegas to fit every travel style .

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best day trips from Las Vegas

If you’re a visual person like I am, this map of the best places to visit near Las Vegas will help you plan your perfect adventure.

By the way, as someone who’s actively checking places off my travel bucket list , I haven’t been everywhere (yet). So I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with these things to do near Las Vegas. Enjoy!

Day trips from Las Vegas

Located in the Mojave Desert, there’s so much to see and do in the area. Here are some of the best ideas for things to do outside of Vegas!

1. Red Rock Canyon (one of the best things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles / 20 minutes

Perhaps one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s perfect for a full day of adventure away from the busy city, yet close enough for a quick drive.

One of the most popular things to do is the Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . This one-way, 13 mile drive takes you through the entire conservation area. Stop at Calico II to see the vibrant red sandstone rocks.

Bring grippy hiking shoes for the 2.2 mile hike on the Calico Tanks Trail . This fun, interactive hike requires a bit of scrambling to get to the viewpoint of the Las Vegas strip. So cool!

You’ll actually need a timed entry reservation to see the conservation area from October through May, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance! If you can’t grab a spot, consider booking a Red Rock Canyon hiking tour which includes park entry.

Of course, come prepared with enough water and high protein snacks. If you’re hiking be sure to bring the 10 essentials and a satellite communicator in case of emergency.

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

2. Valley of Fire State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 56 miles / 48 minutes

Valley of Fire is a famous Nevada State Park, and a nature preserve area known for its breathtaking red sandstone and rock formations. It consists of 40,000 acres of Aztec sandstone.

Prehistoric remnants and unparalleled vistas are intertwined among the valley’s red rocks. There are also ancient petroglyphs that were carved into the Aztec Sandstone rock formations. These spectacular rock formations are best viewed on a sunny day, and every sunset, they illuminate the valley, making it appear they’re on fire.

There are several outdoor activities that you can do in the Valley of Fire. The park offers a short hike for you to survey the area’s scenic views.

As you explore the site, take advantage of these fascinating rock formations like the Valley of Fire Beehives, Atlatl Rock, Elephant Rock and the Fire Wave. They will surely leave you speechless in their beauty.

You can stay overnight in the Valley of Fire; various campgrounds located near this famous spot for camping enthusiasts. And reservations in advance are required, check the  park’s website  for more details.

Valley of Fire is approximately 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas; it would take you about 1 hour to get there by car. Take the I-15 north for about 35 to 40 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Head east toward the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead from Exit 75. The West Entrance Station is located in the Valley of Fire, about 17 miles away.

The best time to visit the park is in October and April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant during this period, while they are extremely hot during the summer. The park is open from sunrise until sunset.

Recommended by Christine of Guide To Daytrips

3. Kanarra Falls

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 33 minutes

At just 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, Kanarra Falls is the perfect day trip for adventure lovers. Grab your hiking boots and trekking poles and head off to this amazing slot canyon.

After arriving at the trailhead you’ll see a small restroom and ticket counter. They only allow 150 hikers a day, so it’s strongly recommended that you reserve your tickets online before arriving as no more tickets are sold on-site once the limit is reached. 

The hike itself is a moderate 3.8-mile hike directly through an epic slot canyon. Be prepared to get wet as the majority of the hike will have you walking through ankle-deep water (sometimes higher).

After about 1.6 miles you’ll see your first waterfall. If you choose to continue up the ladder, you’ll find the second waterfall about 0.3 miles later.

It will surely be a hike you won’t soon forget. Kanarra Falls is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

4. Lake Mead

Distance from Las Vegas: 31 miles / 36 minutes

Lake Mead is a wonderful afternoon or a day escape from the bustling city of Las Vegas! Located less than an hour outside of Las Vegas in Boulder, Nevada, visitors to Lake Mead are greeted with a surplus of outdoor activities sure to provide an outdoor recharge. 

For Lake Mead day trips Las Vegas, it’s recommended to drive so that visitors have flexibility to explore different parts of this natural preserve throughout the afternoon.  

Enjoy hiking, navigating slot canyons, swimming and boating at Lake Mead.  Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, and that swimming and boating beaches are separated. 

More of a relaxed afternoon can be spent driving to one of the many pull out parking spots to enjoy some views with a picnic lunch. Most of the pull out parking spots include a bathroom house.  

Visiting outside of summer months is most recommended as the Mojave Desert can heat up to 120 degrees fahrenheit during this time of year.  

A huge plus is that the natural preserve accepts the Annual National Parks Pass . Without the pass, entrance is $30 per vehicle. 

Recommended by Alyssa of An Apple a Plane

5. Zion National Park (a favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 41 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is visiting Zion National Park in Utah. Just over 2.5 hours from Vegas, Zion offers incredible views and adventures you’ll love.

The perfect Zion itinerary for one day is to take the shuttle into the Zion Scenic Drive to see the impressive canyon. If you’re up for adventure, hike The Narrows.

The Narrows is the popular hike where the canyon narrows and you can walk through the Virgin River (up to 10 miles round trip) to see the massive canyon up close as it closes in. Be sure to bring water shoes and hiking sticks for The Narrows.

Alternatively, you could get crazy awesome views on the Canyon Overlook Trail . It’s just one mile round trip, offering wide open views of the canyon with less effort.

Grab lunch or ice cream at the Zion Lodge or in Springdale, just outside the park. Or, pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the canyon! Regardless of if you’re solo, as a couple, with friends or visiting Zion with kids , it’s a fabulous adventure and perfect day trip from Las Vegas.

Just be sure to take the right hiking essentials when visiting in Zion, like good hiking shoes and plenty of water!

Note: if you’re based in or near Vegas and have or rent an RV, check out this RV road trip guide that details the road trip from Vegas to Zion then the Grand Canyon. What a fun adventure!

6. Hoover Dam

Distance from Las Vegas: 37 miles / 39 minutes

Hoover Dam from Las Vegas is a short drive, and one of the best ways to spend a day away from the city. You can rent a car and drive yourself or take a tour from Vegas . See the historic Hoover Dam, which was completed in 1936.

As a visitor to the Hoover Dam, you can park for free and walk to the viewpoint on both the Nevada and Arizona Sides. The Nevada side you can see the front of the dam. On the Arizona side, you’ll see the Colorado River and the back side of the dam.

The visitor center has information on the history and architecture of the dam. If you rent a car and drive yourself, the parking lot closest to the entrance is $10 to park, or you can walk the 0.7 miles from the free parking to get there.

One of the best ways to learn about the dam’s construction is through a Power Plant Tour. You’ll actually get to go down into the dam to see how it works!

At the time of publication, you can purchase a Guided Power Plant Tour online but not a Guided Dam Tour so if you want the most in-depth tour of the dam, you’ll need to get there early to get a tour, because it’s first come, first serve and sells out quickly.

Book it now: Hoover Dam tour from Vegas

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

7. Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter

Distance from Las Vegas: 45 minutes (flight time)

Enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without all the driving! Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas are a very efficient way to see the 4th most visited national park in the USA !

While driving to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (see #14 below) allows you to hike and see the South Rim, a helicopter tour allows you to land inside the canyon, thousands of feet below the rim.

After a 45-minute helicopter ride from Las Vegas , feel extra bougie as you toast champagne on a bluff from within the canyon. Soak in the incredible views of the massive canyon you’re standing inside of! What a bucket list experience!

Book it now: helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Vegas

More things do do near Las Vegas

Outside of the city but comfortable enough to do in a day, here are more ideas for ya. There’s so much to see in the area!

8. Emerald Cave kayaking (one of the most fun things to do outside of Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 55 miles / 58 minutes

Kayaking in the Emerald Cave is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas strip. The cave is located in the Lake Mead Recreation Area, along a calm section of the Colorado River.

Your journey to the caves will include a relaxing kayak ride along the Colorado River. The surrounding hills and cliff walls are awe-inspiring as they tower above you. 

Along the way, you can also go ashore and take a number of short hikes for a better view of the river and rock walls. These hikes will also give you a chance to see the unique flora and fauna of the area. 

The Emerald Cave itself will often get crowded, and only a few kayaks can enter at a time. The cave is shallow, giving you a chance to enter, take pictures, and then exit again within a few minutes time. 

Within the cave, you’ll see a green glowing light reflecting off of the water and onto the cave walls. This green glow is where the Emerald Cave gets its name. The best time of year to see the full emerald effect is to go in summer on a sunny day. 

To reach the caves, you can drive to Lake Mead Recreation Area and rent a kayak there, or book a half-day tour , which includes hotel pickup and drop-off services from Las Vegas. For your trip, it helps to bring the right gear , including a good backpack and water shoes . 

The tour will provide you with guidance and instruction along the way, so it’s a great option if you’re newer to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area. 

Kayaking the Emerald Cave is one of the best Lake Mead Day Trips from Las Vegas!

Book it now: Emerald Cave kayaking

Recommended by Merry of Virginia Vacation Guide

9. Mojave National Preserve

Distance from Las Vegas: 68 miles / 1 hour, 9 minutes

If you’re looking for a way to get away from Las Vegas but want somewhere with few crowds, then consider making a visit to Mojave National Preserve. In just an hour’s drive on Interstate 15 from the big city, you’ll find hiking trails, caves, and much more to explore.

First, head to Cima Road, which is home to more Joshua Trees than you’ll even be able to find within the namesake national park. These are rare trees, only growing within certain parts of the southwest.

Another one of the best things to do is to visit the Kelso Dunes. These beautiful sand dunes offer viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to stand on top of the tallest dune.

The Lava Tubes Trail offers a short hike and a unique experience in a cave. There aren’t many places where you’re able to climb directly into the tube, so this one shouldn’t be missed!

Other fun activities include seeing the cinder cones along Aiken Mine Road, hiking the Teutonia Peak Trail, and visiting the Mojave Desert Mailbox. Because you’ll be in the desert, be sure to dress comfortably to stay cool while you’re out exploring.

It’s also nice to have a high-clearance vehicle for the visit, as some roads can be pretty rough. Also, be sure to check the status of the roads, because wintertime may bring snow and poor weather conditions.

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

10. UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 25 miles / 49 minutes

Get ready for an epic adventure in Prime Valley and Hidden Valley at the McCullough Mountain Range, Nevada . This is one of the most fun day trips from Las Vegas if you’e looking for an adrenaline-filled time!

This half day UTV excursion takes you through fun, rugged desert terrain just outside of Las Vegas. You’ll get to see Hidden Valley National Monument during your excursion.

An excursion like this was one of the most fun things to do in Aruba , and I think you’ll agree it’s an awesome day trip from Vegas , too. Drivers must be 16 or older, and each UTV is fit for 2 people. Kids as young as 12 can ride with an adult, so it’s great for families with older kids, too.

Pro tip: wear clothes you can get dirty and closed toes shoes.

Pack anything you don’t want to get dirty in a dry bag with a strap and tie it down. That prevents dirt from penetrating a backpack for other cloth bag. This is the dry bag I used while UTVing and it worked great! Don’t forget to take extra water in reusable water bottles , too.

Book it now: UTV adventure near Vegas

11. Death Valley National Park (one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas for scenery)

Distance from Las Vegas: 110 miles / 1 hour, 55 minutes

Death Valley is one of the best national parks in California and a perfect day trips from Las Vegas if you are looking to escape the crowds and explore the stunning landscapes of the Mojave Desert. 

Although summers bring triple-digit temperatures to Death Valley, winter has a mild sunny weather with no snow, except for high altitudes. 

You can get to Death Valley by taking a guided tour from Las Vegas that includes major highlights of the national park or renting a car in Las Vegas . If you rent a car, you will have more freedom exploring this vast area and also enjoy stargazing at night since Death Valley boasts incredible dark skies free of light pollution.

The park has many hikes like Golden Canyon, overlooks and is also home to the lowest point in North America, Bad Water Basin, that sits at 282 feet below sea level. Since Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states, prepare to drive longer distances, as some points of the interest are as far as 50 minutes away from one another.

Book it now: Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

12. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 24 miles / 27 minutes

Some of the oldest buildings in Nevada lie right next to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area at the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This historic ranch is a fun little day trip from Las Vegas , where you can tour old buildings like a blacksmith shop and sandstone cabin.

Nestled in a picturesque setting, it’s a lesser-known attraction in the Las Vegas area , so you’ll really be able to escape the crowds. Pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to visit this state park is October through May.

The Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a great spot for beginner hikers or families and pets, too. Hike the Spring Mountain Ranch Loop trial, at just 1.5 miles and flat, it’s an easy trail for nearly any skill level.

Hours change seasonally so check before you go at the Spring Mountain Ranch website .

13. Seven Magic Mountains

Distance from Las Vegas: 26 miles / 27 minutes

A fun experience close to Las Vegas is the Seven Magic Mountains . These colorful stacked boulders are an art instillation that took social media by storm in 2016, thousands of visitors come to the Seven Magic Mountains annually.

It’s a free, short day trip from Las Vegas, and one worth visiting if you’re looking for something low-key to do in the area. And bonus – no extra hiking gear or picnic supplies required.😊 It’s perfect for when you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids !

Created by artist Ugo Rondinone and supported by the Nevada Museum of Art  and  Art Production Fund , this is a free attraction although donations are always welcome! Take as many photos as you desire, but please don’t damage the boulders.

Pro tip: If you want great photos with fewer people, come early in the day – just after sunrise – to avoid crowds. Also check out this guide for more free things to do in Las Vegas .

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the best things to do outside of Vegas that doesn’t take a lot of time, either.

Full day trips from Las Vegas

With 3+ hours of driving each way, these are the best day trips from Las Vegas that make a long day, but totally worth the effort! Of course if you have more time, these destinations would make great weekend trips from Las Vegas, too.

14. South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 279 miles / 4 hours, 22 minutes

If you’re looking to escape the intenseness of Las Vegas for a day and want to spend some time surrounded by incredible scenery you’ll never forget, head to  the Grand Canyon South Rim .

The Grand Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of the world and offers absolutely stunning views. The South Rim in particular is considered to be the best part with its really expansive views and is truly a sight to see.

There are many unique hikes and viewpoints such as Mather Point that you can visit at The South Rim – but note that the weather and temperature can change suddenly here so make sure to bring plenty of layers and be prepared for any weather. Woolx Merino wool layers work perfect for any season and are perfect for the Grand Canyon.

Drive time to Grand Canyon South Rim is just over 4 hours each way from Las Vegas so it’s a long day but it is definitely worth it! You can rent a car and drive yourself, or if you’d prefer someone else to do the driving you can book a Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas on a bus.

The day trips are usually around 15 hours long, starting at around 6 or 7am, and cost under $100 so good value for money! It’s best to book a Grand Canyon tour in advance as it is a popular day trip from Vegas!

Not only is The Grand Canyon one of the best day trips from Las Vegas, but the route to get there is really interesting too as you’ll get to drive along the famous Route 66!

Book it now: Grand Canyon bus tour from Vegas

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

15. Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles / 4 hours, 23 minutes

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most photographed sites along the Colorado River and a fantastic excursion for those traveling from Las Vegas.

While on the far end for a day trip, Horseshoe Bend is about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas. Located in Page Arizona, the iconic feature is a must-do for those traveling through the southwest. 

Horseshoe Bend, part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is one  top things to do in Page Arizona .  It can be done as a stop along with other activities in the area.

The trail and parking for Horseshoe Bend is managed by the city of Page, and doesn’t take any National Park or other park passes for entrance to the site. Parking for Horseshoe Bend is $10 and the site is open from sunrise to sunset daily.

For those visiting the site, the hike requires about 1.5 miles (out and back) to reach the viewpoint for the bend. There’s a small platform located at the end of the trail.

However, be sure to continue on past the viewpoint along the slick stones and you’ll be treated to some great other views of the bend without as many tourists around. You can even climb the small hill to get a better overlook of the site. 

Beyond Horseshoe Bend, there’s plenty of other things around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visit to the nearby Glen Canyon Bridge and Dam is worth a quick excursion. Visitors can view the amazing engineering feats of creating both the bridge and dam in this part of the river.

There’s also great hiking nearby such as the Hanging Gardens Hike, the Chains, and The “New Wave” which is a lovely banded sandstone area close to the glen canyon dam. 

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door

16. Bryce Canyon National Park (one of the most epic day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 259 miles / 4 hours, 3 minutes

You’ll want to get up early for this one! As a day trip, this is doable but a pretty long day. It would make a great weekend trip from Las Vegas, too.

Anyway, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the famous hoodoos, which are irregularly shaped rock spires. Witness the unique beauty of this landscape from Bryce Point or Inspiration Point.

If you’re up for hiking, try the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop , which is a fun, interactive trail. It’s 3.1 miles and rated as moderate, you’ll weave through hoodoos and witness the bright orange and red rocks up close.

Have a picnic at Sunset Point or enjoy the views at Sunrise Point, too. You can see all the Bryce Canyon National Park highlights in just one day!

17. Joshua Tree National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 186 miles / 3 hours, 8 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is a day in Joshua Tree . It takes about 3 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park, but it is worth the drive and a great way to escape the city.

Joshua Tree is best during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. In the summer, the park gets very hot, and in the winter it’s cold. However, if you’re taking a day trip in the winter, you will still experience the warmest part of the day in winter.

While in Joshua Tree, take the quick hike to Arch Rock, drive down Queen Valley Road, visit the Cholla Cactus Garden, and, of course, see all the Joshua Trees. One of the best places to find a high concentration of Joshua Trees is along Queen Valley Road or on Park Boulevard from the West Entrance Station.

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

18. Antelope Canyon (a popular tour from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 278 miles / 4 hours, 32 minutes

Las Vegas is such a fun city to explore but many people don’t realize there are amazing places to visit outside of Las Vegas. Antelope Canyon is a popular slot canyon in Page, Arizona.

The canyon is full of beautiful Navajo Sandstone that makes for some of the most stunning views you’ll find. Getting to escape from the concrete jungle of Las Vegas is a great way to refresh and enjoy some time away from the city.

If you’re planning on visiting Antelope Canyon, there are a few things you must know.

The canyon is on Navajo land and is restricted to tours by Navajo tour guides and tours are required to visit. You’ll want to book in advance to ensure you can get a tour. If you find that Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are booked, look into tours of Antelope Canyon X .

May to October get really busy, the earlier you book your tour , the better.

To do Antelope Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas, follow I-15 North through Saint George, Utah. Then take UT-9 to Hwy 59 towards Kanab, UT, where you’ll get on the US-89 East to Lake Powell and Page, Arizona. The drive is a little long, but it makes for a great adventure to one of the most beautiful slot canyons you can find!

Book it now: Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

19. Palm Springs

Distance from Las Vegas: 231 miles / 4 hours, 9 minutes

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, taking a day trip from Las Vegas to Palm Springs is an ideal way to add some fun and adventure to your travels. Though it’s situated about 4 hours away, there are so many ways to spend one day in Palm Springs !

You can explore the iconic downtown area, which features boutique shops, hip galleries, and tasty restaurants. Or, check out the original retro architecture on residential homes and hotels.

Outdoor lovers can venture out for a day hike at one of the many trails, such as Tahquitz Canyon. One can’t-miss activity for any first time visitor is the famous Palm Springs aerial tramway, which takes you up the nearby San Jacinto Mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

With so much natural beauty to explore, it’s no wonder why Palm Springs has become such a popular getaway spot for travelers from Las Vegas.

Be aware that summer is a tough time for hiking and strenuous activity in the California desert. If visiting in the summer months, I would recommend visiting one of the many pool and mineral springresorts. 

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth 

20. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 240 miles / 3 hours, 41 minutes

Did you know there are actually 2 Red Rock Canyons to escape to as a day trip from Las Vegas?

Not to be confused with the National Conservation Area just a few minutes outside of Vegas,  Red Rock Canyon State Park  is a 3.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. While it’s a long drive for a day trip, it’s doable starting before sunrise and driving back at sunset.

Located in Cantil, California, Red Rock Canyon State Park is part of the Mojave Desert. Once you’re there, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Joshua Trees and get a breathtaking view of sandstone cliffs as far as the eye can see.

Enjoy activities such as rock climbing, picnicking, easy nature walks, as well as beginner canyoneering. Best of all, you won’t find huge crowds here, so enjoy the peaceful escape from the city.

Recommended by Cassie of Cassie’s Compass

21. Grand Staircase Escalante (another favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 213 miles / 3 hours, 26 minutes

Grand Staircase Escalante is a fun and unique day trip from Las Vegas. If you’re looking to hike some really cool slot canyons, Grand Staircase is the place to do it.

A 3.5 hour drive from Vegas, there are a  few different slot canyons  located within Grand Staircase Escalante to visit. One of the most famous is Zebra Slot Canyon, a canyon that has stripes along the wall making it look like the stripes on a zebra!

Besides hiking the slot canyons in the area, there are plenty of other amazing trails to hike in this area. To get to Grand Staircase Escalante, head northeast on I-15 towards St. George, once in St. George depending on where you want to go in Grand Staircase either head towards Kanab or head towards Bryce Canyon.

The roads inside of Grand Staircase aren’t paved and a lot of the roads require you to have a 4×4 vehicle. Make sure to always check with the visitor centers nearby in Kanab and Escalante before heading out to make sure the weather and roads are safe for exploring.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

22. Alabama Hills (one of the most scenic things to do near Las Vegas)

Distance from Las Vegas: 246 miles / 4 hours, 13 minutes

Alabama Hills, California is an underrated destination that’s gained in popularity over the last decade or so. A long day trip from Las Vegas, it can be done in a single day with an early morning and late night, or better yet, as a weekend getaway from Las Vegas!

With expansive views of these smooth rocky formations, there’s quite a bit to see and do in Alabama Hills. Movie Road is aptly named based on the volume of films that have been shot here. Drive down it and recognize scenes from Iron Man and Gladiator, just to name a few.

There’s plenty of hiking opportunities in Alabama Hills , too. Grab your hiking shoes and head to the famous Mobius Arch, coming in at less than one mile. Or explore views of the snow-capped mountains on the Upper Alabama Hills Trail to Cyclops Skull Arch .

Best day trips from Las Vegas

Well, that’s a wrap! The area surrounding Las Vegas is full of fun and activities for all ages. Whether you’ve got just one day trip from Vegas or have a few days to explore the area, you’ll find something amazing to do with your time!

Let’s take a look at those adventures again, in a quick list…

Places to visit near Las Vegas

• Red Rock Canyon
• Valley of Fire State Park
• Kanarra Falls
• Zion National Park
• Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter
• Emerald Cave kayaking
• Mojave National Preserve
• UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains
• Death Valley National Park
• Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
• Seven Magic Mountains
• South Rim of the Grand Canyon
• Horseshoe Bend
• Bryce Canyon National Park
• Joshua Tree National Park
• Antelope Canyon
• Palm Springs
• Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Grand Staircase Escalante
• Alabama Hills

Related content you might like: 20 BIG Adventure Vacations in the US Not to Miss 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States You’ll Love

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wanderwithbelle

Sunday 29th of January 2023

I love Vegas and have been there a numerous of times!! Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Welcome Belle. Thanks for your comment and visiting the blog! :)

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Vegas itself isn't really on my list of places to visit, but I'd love to do all of these daytrips!

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

Agreed! Every time I go to Vegas, I leave Vegas 🤣

Saturday 17th of December 2022

I am not a big fan of Las Vegas so I love the idea of trying some of these road trips on the next time I attend a conference in Nevada. I love the rugged landscape.

Monday 19th of December 2022

Same, same Terri! Each time I visit Vegas I have to get out 🤣 Have fun on your next non-Vegas adventure!

Interesting read. Emerald cave kayaking looks so relaxing.

Totally agree, Anukrati! I hope you get to try it sometime.

Friday 16th of December 2022

Some great ideas here, and some wonderful photos too!

Glad you found this helpful :)

• Destinations

25 Best Day Trips in Southern California

Last Updated By VI on April 12, 2024 in California Day Trips

Palm Springs

Cabot's pueblo museum, cabrillo national monument.

• Complete List & Map

Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens to see what thrives in the sparse desert ecosystem ( watch the video ). Enjoy the 1938 Palm Springs Art Museum to learn about regional art, performing arts, and natural science.

Many remnants from the gold rush era are still standing, and visitors love travelling back in time by visiting the historic 1870 buildings, now housing charming B&Bs or hotels. A ride down Main Street in a nicely refurbished horse-drawn carriage is a must. Visitors can venture into the tunnels of a real abandoned gold mine, stroll through century-old pear and apple orchards, fish on Cuyamaca Lake , and much more .

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Carpinteria

More ideas: Where to travel next in California , Great beach campgrounds

One of California’s Channel Islands, southwest of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina is only 22 miles off the coast and is a curious combination of resort towns such as Avalon , the rustic charm of the old town of Two Harbors, rich wildlife and diverse wild nature at the nearby Mt. Orizaba, and endless adventures. The largest island beach, Descanso Beach, is lined with stately palm trees and colorful cabanas. The magnificent circular art deco Catalina Casino is the island’s cultural hub with a museum, a movie theater, and ballroom. One of the best weekend getaways , Catalina attracts thrill-seekers with its Island Zip Line Eco Tour, snorkeling, diving, boating, and land and sea excursions. See the Map

Coronado Island

On the western end of the beach is the leash-free Coronado Dog Beach. The Coronado Ferry Landing is a lively area with shops and restaurants, while the Gaslamp Quarter is famous for its rich nightlife. Centennial Park offers spectacular views of the San Diego skyline, and the Point Loma Peninsula has a popular park with the Cabrillo National Monument, hiking trails, tide pools, and fascinating exhibits on California history. View Map

More ideas: Del Mar

Death Valley National Park

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Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Joshua Tree National Park

More ideas: Escapes from Los Angeles

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

15101 Lancaster Rd, Lancaster, CA 93536, Phone: 661-724-1180 , website

LEGOLAND California

LEGOLAND California , 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad , CA 92008, Phone: 888-690-5346

California Citrus State Historic Park

California Citrus State Historic Park , 9400 Dufferin Ave, Riverside, California 92503, Phone: 951-780-6222

Follow the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail to visit all the best wineries and vineyards. Stroll through the historic town center with old trees and gardens and a number of Victorian architectural treasures. Visit the 1882 Keenan/Hartley Home, Rice’s Gas Station, the Uncle Tom Davis Store and the Campbell and Fleenor homes.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park , 200 Palm Canyon Dr, Borrego Springs , CA 92004, Phone: 760-767-4205 , Video

Palomar Observatory

More ideas: Half Moon Bay

San Diego Zoo

More ideas: Things to Do in Malibu

San Juan Capistrano

Stroll through the Los Rios Historic District with its centuries-old tile-roofed adobe homes and wood cottages, and if you come in March you can watch the swallows return to their homes in the old mission as they do every year. Cool off or have a picnic at Doheny State Beach. Learn more about the history of San Juan Capistrano at the fascinating Blas Aguilar Adobe Museum. See the Map

Solana Beach

More ideas: Torrance

Universal Studios Hollywood

More ideas: Things to Do in Pasadena

Venice of America Canals

Unfortunately, after a period of popularity, the canals fell into disrepair; but after 40 years of neglect, the canals are in fashion again and the whole neighborhood is being rapidly renovated. It is once more a fun place to visit with funky architecture, pleasant paths along the water, and an interesting landscape. Things to Do in Venice Beach

Whitewater Preserve

More ideas: Things to Do in La Jolla

• 1. Palm Springs
• 3. Cabot's Pueblo Museum
• 4. Cabrillo National Monument
• 5. Environmental Nature Center, Newport Beach
• 6. Carpinteria
• 7. Catalina
• 8. Coronado Island
• 9. Crestline
• 10. Death Valley National Park
• 11. Disneyland
• 12. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
• 13. Joshua Tree National Park
• 14. Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
• 15. LEGOLAND California
• 16. California Citrus State Historic Park
• 17. Los Olivos
• 18. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
• 19. Palomar Observatory
• 20. San Diego Zoo
• 21. San Juan Capistrano
• 22. Solana Beach
• 23. Universal Studios Hollywood
• 24. Venice of America Canals
• 25. Whitewater Preserve

Home to so many large urban centers, Southern California is also incredibly rich in diverse ecosystems that range from deserts to mountaintops. Charming towns provide a wonderful, relaxing destination in their own right, while large national parks offer active recreation but also an opportunity to get close to the lush nature and diverse wildlife on your weekend trip. Plan a day trip from Los Angeles , San Diego , from Palm Springs , Santa Barbara and other cities.

More Features

20 Best Pools in Las Vegas

25 Best Day Trips in Northern California

Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, CA

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30 Awesome Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

We share our best day trips from Cincinnati to help inspire your next adventure.

Whether you are looking for a quick family getaway or a couples retreat, we have come up with various day trips from Cincinnati that are only two hours away or less.  From going on safari to unique ways to cool off during the summer, we have the perfect adventure to put on your bucket list.

These great destinations make great day trips or even weekend getaways from Cincinnati. It’s time to get off the bucket list because you will be adding a few of these immediately. This page contains affiliate links.

30 Top Day Trips Within Two Hours From Cincinnati

Get behind the wheel of a race car during the rusty wallace racing experience.

If you are hunting for an exhilarating adrenaline-pumping experience, sign up for the Rusty Wallace Racing Experience at the Lucas Oil Raceway in Hendricks County, Indiana.  This is one of the few experiences that let you drive in a racecar unattended.

That is correct, after taking an hour course on safety and driving, you suit up and get behind the wheel of an actual racecar without an instructor.  This once-in-a-lifetime experience will have you white-knuckled as your approach upwards of 155 MPH.

For those not quite ready to take on the track along, they do offer a ride-along where you get zipped along the track by a professional driver.

Go On A Safari At The Wilds

It is quite bizarre to think one can go on an actual safari in Ohio. On the contrary, The Wilds , located in Columbus, offers guests a truly unique safari experience. See giraffes, rhinos, and other rare and endangered animals from your open-air vehicle as you make your way through the vast savannah.

Great lodging options are available, from a family-friendly lodge to adults-only yurts overlooking the wildlife. This is one of the coolest things you can do within two hours of Cincinnati.

Relax In Croctail Creek At The Columbus Zoo

After your Wild’s experience hop over to the Columbus Zoo for even more fun.  One of the great things about the Columbus Zoo is that it is home to an aquarium and a waterpark called Zoombezi Bay.

Zoombezi Bay is home to the adults-only Croctail Creek. This adult-only lazy river lets you sit back, soak up the sun, and float around with your favorite beverage.  This little sanctuary is a great place for adults looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of a busy waterpark.

Sip And Shop Your Way Through Little Nashville

Known to many as “Little Nashville”, the town of Nashville, Indiana, boasts trendy boutiques, charming restaurants, and local wineries.  Imagine the most darling county store with a garden of beautiful wildflowers and turn it into a town; that is “Little Nashville”.

Quaint shops full of rustic charm line the bloom-filled streets. Every nook and cranny is home to a specialty shop that can’t be overlooked.  Whether you want to glam up your wardrobe, take home that perfect antique or find an original piece of art in one of the galleries, you can find it here in Nashville.

Brown County, Indiana is also known for scenic Brown County State Park, which comes alive with color during the fall months. The best is that this great getaway is two hours from Cincinnati.

Indulge In A Piece Of Chocolate Cake From The Cake Bake Shop

If you happen to be passing through Hamilton County, Indiana, it would be a sin to not stop by The Cake Bake Shop for a slice of their famous Chocolate Cake.  The experience of going to this exquisite cake shop is one that you will not forget.

The restaurant’s elegance, beauty, and interior are straight out of a fairytale. It is easy to see why this was one of Oprah’s favorite things.  I recommend trying a few of their tasty temptations and then taking a few things home as a souvenir.

Bike The Monon Trail

The Monon Trail is an abandoned railway that has been paved and welcomes bikers, runners, and those seeking a stroll.  Running from Indianapolis to Sheridan, Indiana, the Monon Trail is roughly 27 miles long, with plenty of great stops to explore along the way.

The trail cuts through Hamilton County, Indiana, home to a gorgeous art district, breweries, and plenty of family-friendly activities.  Bring a bike or rent one there but start planning this fun experience today!

Go Snorkeling In A Crystal Clear Lake

A quick getaway roughly 90 minutes from Cincinnati is  Natural Springs Resort, located in New Paris, Ohio . Snorkel in the crystal clear lake, snag the perfect fishing spot, then end the day with a marshmallow roast over a campfire. Natural Springs is one place that the family will want to come back to year after year with so much to do. 

The crown gem of Natural Springs Resort is the sparkling freshwater lake with a stunning rock quarry backdrop. This spring-fed lake offers many family fun activities, such as snorkeling in the clear waters and relaxing on the beach to rent a boat.

Explore the Old Athens Lunatic Asylum

The eerie mysteries that shroud the Athens Lunatic Asylum have intrigued and peaked curiosities for years. Now known as The Ridges, the Athens Lunatic Asylum operated from 1874 to 1993. The Asylum saw various patients, including civil war veterans, children, and those deemed mentally unwell.

It was meant to only house 550 patients when it opened; the Athens Lunatic Asylum surpassed nearly 2,000 patients by the 1950s. Later, small housing units were built to create small communities for patients to live in.

The hospital became known for its infamous lobotomy procedures along with electroshock therapy, hydrotherapy, and the use of psychotropic drugs.  I would recommend  pairing this with a progressive brewery making this a great couple or friends weekend getaway from Cincinnati

Learn more about the Ridges and start planning your visit to Athens with our Guide of Things To Do In Athens, Ohio .

Discover The Historic Side Of Lexington

A great day trip from Cincinnati is Lexington, KY. Lexington is home to plenty of fascinating history. With several of the historic homes and places, visitors to the area can go on a self-guided walk through downtown Lexington to scout out these historic landmarks.

Brochures featuring The Lexington Walk can be found online or at the Lexington Visitors Center.  While it is highly encouraged to walk the route, it is also drivable.  Discover the home of Mary Todd Lincoln, historic churches, the Hunt-Morgan House, and more. Hop in the car to see even more great historic homes, such as Ashland and the Waveland State Historic Site.  For a fun stop, be sure to swing into the Parkette Drive-In for a great meal.

Stay In A Historic Shaker Village

While you are in Lexington, be sure to check out Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill.  The Shaker village has over 34 historic structures and 3000 acres from the early 1800s.

Opportunities are endless as you discover Kentucky’s Largest National Historic Landmark and learn about Shaker culture through demonstrations and programs. A truly unique aspect of Shaker village is that they offer 72 guest rooms located within 13 of the historic buildings.

This allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in history while experiencing top-notch hospitality.  Each room hosts a countryside view and is furnished in the traditional Shaker style.

They offer many unique and fun events throughout the year, including Trick-Or-Treat and Holiday Festivities. Since it is less than 2 hours from Cincinnati, you can return for all the special occasions.

Catch An Outdoor Drama In Chillicothe

Located in Chillicothe, The Tecumseh Outdoor Drama drew visitors for decades. The drama tells the life story of the legendary Shawnee leader, Tecumseh, who struggles to defend his sacred homelands in Ohio country during the late 1700s.  

VIP experiences and behind-the-scenes tours are also available. While in Chillicothe, explore the Hopewell earthworks throughout the area.

Check out our complete list of the best things to do in Chillicothe .

Create Your Own Unique Bourbon Trail Experience

Are you are bourbon enthusiast?  Whether you enjoy bourbon or not, this is a bucket list experience you don’t want to miss. Kentucky is home to Bourbon Trail, which is full of great distilleries, craft distilleries, and even bourbon fudge made by monks.

Working your way through the entire Bourbon Trail could take days or even weeks. One perk of living so close is that you can customize your experience. Selecting a few distilleries each trip, is one getaway that can be a different experience each time you go.  After hitting the trail a few times, we have developed a list of favorite Bourbon Trail Stops.

Drive Through A Cave In Louisville

Another great experience less than 2 hours from Cincinnati is the Louisville Mega Cavern. This cavern is full of adventure, including zip lines, an aerial ropes course, bike tours, and more. This cavern has more than 4,000,000 square feet of space, which they utilize year-round.

During the holidays, the Mega Cavern offers Lights Under Louisville, in which visitors do a self-guided drive through a specular light display all underground!

Another popular reason to venture down to Louisville is for the Kentucky Derby!

Hike The Trails Of Red River Gorge

A great outdoor adventure awaits at a breathtaking Red River Gorge. This two-hour drive from Cincinnati is well worth it for those seeking to exchange the sounds of the city for those of nature. The gorge is known for its natural bridge, jaw-dropping view, and beautiful trails.

The Daniel Boone National Forest is also home to rafting, canoeing, ziplining, and more. Be sure to explore the gorge underground as you kayak through the cavern. Cabins, campgrounds, and nearby hotels are available for those looking to overnight.

Explore all of Dayton’s 5 River’s Great MetroParks

Dayton is home to an extraordinary park system. The  Five Rivers MetroParks offers nearly 16,000 acres of green space across 25 facilities. This includes 18 parks, conservation areas, and the 2nd Street Market. Each park offers great outdoor experiences and its unique activities for guests to enjoy.

From kayaking and hiking to horseback riding, there is something for everyone. Did I mention that there is no cost to enter any of the MetroParks?!  A few of our favorites include Carillon Historical Park and the Weygerzyn Gardens. Exploring the various parks makes for many different day trips from Cincinnati.

Discover Preble County’s Historic Bridges

A well-kept secret of Preble County, Ohio, has been preserving eight historic covered bridges. Many of which are still in use today.  Each covered bridge has a story to tell, or should I say each person in Preble County has a story about a covered bridge.

Many bridges have overcome fires, tornados, and oversized trucks, but the more romantic side of the covered bridges captures visitors’ attention. Take a day to explore all of the covered bridges in Preble County .  Nearby Hueston Woods is a great spot to stay the night or do a little hiking.

Embrace The Irish Culture In Dublin, OH

Whether you have a little Irish in you, or wish you did, Dublin is full of Irish charm for you to take in and savor.  It’s easy to get into the Irish spirit, as Dublin is home to the country’s largest three-day Irish Festival and The Celtic Cocktail Trail. There are plenty of things to do in Dublin Ohio that will surprise you. One of the most unique things to see in Dublin is the Corn Henge, a field of concert corn!

A tour of their famous public art, go zipling, venture a fairy trail, and more. May multiple day trips from Cincinnati to check off all the public art!

Peer Inside Old Man’s Cave

A little over two hours from Cincinnati is one of Ohio’s most scenic parks, Hocking Hills State Park.  There are many great hiking options here, but one of the most popular is Old Man’s Cave.  Many hikers choose to start at the Upper Falls because the Grandma Gatewood Trail begins its six-mile course connecting three of the park’s areas: Old Man’s Cave to Cedar Falls to Ash Cave.

However, for those seeking a quick peek, a short hike from the designated parking area will leave you with a beautiful view of the cave.  This natural wonder is fun to visit anytime; however, try going in the winter months for a less crowded and more serene visit. The frozen waterfalls genuinely make it a spectacular sight.

Get our complete list of the ten best hikes in Hocking Hills .

Walkthrough The Vibrant And Eclectic Town Of Yellow Springs

From a lively downtown scene to sipping on ice-cold brews from Yellow Springs Brewery, this is one of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati to make with or without kids. Yellow Springs, OH, has laid-back coffee shops, unusual boutiques, and plenty of delicious food.

Nature lovers come prepared to hike, as on of the top things in Yellow Springs is to get out and enjoy their parks. The John Bryan State Park offers many hiking trails, while Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve has stunning limestone gorges.

Don’t miss out on a visit to the Glen Helen Nature Preserve to see the famous yellow springs and beautiful waterfalls.  After a good hike, head over to Young’s Dairy for a scoop of their delicious homemade ice cream!

Get Hand’s On At One of Indianapolis’ Famous Museums

Indianapolis is known as the perfect day trip for families because of its award-winning Children’s Museum. While the Children’s Museum is always a great stop, Indy is full of other great museums to explore. Consider visiting a museum full of percussion instruments that you can play at The Rythmn Discover Center or learn about the history of racing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum.

Stroll through galleries of stunning at Newfields or swing into the Eiteljorg Museum to view their collection of American Indian and Western Art. Indianapolis has something for everything from its vibrant food scene, deep history, and the Indianapolis Zoo!

Add A Layer Of Paint To The Worlds Largest Ball Of Paint

Tucked away in Alexandria, Indiana, hanging from an industrial size hook, is the World’s Largest Ball of Paint. What once started as a humble baseball now has over 26,000 layers of paint and counting.

Visitors to this Guinness Book of World Records Holding attraction can add a layer to the ever-growing ball. The attraction is free to the public; however, you must call ahead and schedule a time.

The World’s Largest Ball of Paint is at the Carmicheal home and is open by appointment only. A quick google search will yield the current phone number to contact to set up your tour.

Go Swimming at an Old Quarry in La Grange, KY

Another great day trip within two hours from Cincinnati is La Grange, KY.  Adults can cool off at Falling Rock Park .  It is an old rock quarry that is maintained solely through rainwater! Anyone over 18 can bring a pool raft, noodle, kayak, or paddleboard and relax.

While you are visiting, be sure to visit Mainstreet La Grange, one of the few places in the country where the train runs right down the middle of the road.

Hartman Rock Garden

Venture off the beaten path with a visit to the Hartman Rock Garden a spectacular collection of art made by self-taught artist Ben Hartman. One man’s legacy has become a unique Ohio roadside attraction drawing thousands of visitors annually. The garden is free to visit and is open year-round.

Wright-Patterson Air Force Base

One of the best day trips from Cincinnati is a visit to the Wright-Patterson Airforce Base, known as the National Museum of the United States Air Force. This historic treasure is the world’s largest  Military Aviation Museum. The Museum is FREE to the public and is open daily, except holidays.

The Air Force Museum has an impressive collection of iconic planes that will leave your inner child wanting to climb inside each one. The history and artifacts found throughout the museum are second to none.  Learn about the history of the Wright Brothers, see the plane that dropped the bomb on Hiroshima, and then check out the rockets in the space exhibit.

Tip: Be sure to check their special events to see when they will having their annual Airshows!

Explore Downtown Hamilton Ohio

One of our favorite day trips from Cincinnati is to Hamiton, Ohio. This small town is the perfect shopping retreat as chic boutiques, trendy restaurants, along with new experiences are popping up all over. Take a stroll along the Greater Miami River, visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, and learn about the fascinating history of Fort Hamilton. Start planning your trip to Downtown Hamilton Ohio .

Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Park in Union, Kentucky, gives visitors the unique opportunity to view bison completely free! Remains of ancient mammoths and Pleistocene megafauna have been found in the area, making it known as the Big Bone Lick State Historic Site.

With plenty of hiking trails, a family-friendly campground, educational exhibits, a visitor center, and a museum, Big Bone Lick is the perfect Kentucky day trip or weekend getaway.

Tip : Big Bone Lick is near the Rabbit Hash General Store.

Explore Columbus

Columbus provides a mecca of entertainment options, from the bizarre art at Otherworld to the acclaimed LEGOLAND and everything in between! It is easy to spend a day or a week exploring all that this capital city has to offer.

Whether you are venturing up for an overnight at the Brewdog Hotel or planning a visit to COSI, Columbus makes the perfect day trip from Cincinnati.

See The Portsmouth Flood Wall Murals

Where the Scioto River meets the Ohio River lays the sleepy small town of Portsmouth, Ohio. Stroll the magnificent floodwall murals, hunt for antiques, or take a peaceful hike through Shawnee State Park.

The Portsmouth  Ohio Floodwall Murals  are an iconic Ohio landmark that portrays the local history through exquisitely painted murals. Over 55 murals adorn the floodwalls, each depicting a moment in time.

While you are there, discover these Great Things To Do In Portsmouth, Ohio.

Catch The View From Rising Park

Soak in breathtaking views of Lancaster, Ohio, by climbing to the top of Rising Park’s Mount Pleasant. Arguably one of Ohio’s most spectacular views, Mount Pleasant overlooks the city of Lancaster with the surrounding foothills in the distance.

To get to the top of Mount Pleasant, visitors enter through Rising Park. A parking lot is adjacent to the trailhead, directly past the tennis courts. The climb is moderate; however, remember that you will gain 206ft in elevation in about .7 miles. It took us roughly 45 minutes round trip, but you can stay up and enjoy the view for hours.

Visit Serpent Mound

Unknown to many, Ohio is home to the world’s largest effigy mound. The Great Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio, is surrounded by mystery, wonder, and tradition. It is a National Historic Landmark that should be on every Ohio Bucket List. Here are five fun things to do during a visit to Serpent Mound.

Ohio is full of remarkable earthworks, so much so that there is an Ancient Trail to help you discover them all.

Explore The Charming Small Town Of Troy, Ohio

The charming area of downtown Troy is one of the best-hidden gems in Ohio. Right in the heart of Miami County, Troy offers visitors unique adventures, family-friendly parks, and tons of midwest hospitality. Discover the history, taste the flavors, and join in on incredible local events.

Feeling adventurous? Troy offers one of the few places guests can stay overnight in Floating Tents .

Fun Day Trips Without Leaving Cincinnati

You don’t have to hit the open road to plan a great day trip from Cincinnati. Cincinnati is a huge city full of activities. Here is a list of the best day trips without leaving the city.

• Explore the riverwalks along the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati.
• Spend the day riding roller coasters at Kings Island.
• Stroll the galleries at the Cincinnati Art Museum.
• Get a day pass to Great Wolf Lodge in Mason.
• Sign-up for a behind-the-scenes opportunity at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
• Tour the American Sign Museum.
• Catch a Red’s Game at the Great American Ball Park.
• Create your own Streetcar Tour.
• Eat your way through Findlay Market.

Looking For A Weekend Getaway From Cincinnati? 

On the hunt for a relaxing lake getaway a little over four hours from Cincinnati? Consider a visit to Put-In-Bay .  Known as the “Key West” of the North, many guests come to enjoy the beautiful lake views, entertainment, and history.  Hop on the ferry to the island,  rent a golf cart, and spend the day exploring this unique Ohio destination.

Get our complete guide to one of Ohio’s beautiful islands; Middle Bass Island!

More Day Trips From Cincinnati

Looking for more great day trips within two hours from Cincinnati?

A Girlfriend Getaway To Springfield, Ohio 

17 things to do in santa claus, indiana , 11 outdoor activities to do in richmond indiana , 30 day trips within two hours from cincinnati.

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Over 40 Fun Things to do in Orange County with Kids

O range County has long been a vacation destination for millions each year, but it is also where my family is blessed to call home. As locals, my kids have been able to grow up in the land of sunshine, beaches, and Disney. Through the years we have discovered that there are so many fun things to do in Orange County with kids!

As a local, I am so excited to share all the great things to do with kids in Orange County with Trekaroo readers. Whether you are a fellow Orange County resident or planning your own OC vacation, this guide is sure to be a great resource for your family.

In addition to things to do, this guide is filled with great hotel suggestions for families, tips on where to eat, and even day trip ideas.

Fun Things to do in Orange County with Kids

Have a beach day.

Hands down, one of the best things to do in Orange County with kids is have a day at the beach. Orange County is home to 42 miles of coastline and dozens of great beaches to enjoy.

If you are looking for the classic Southern California beach day, head to Huntington State Beach . This wide stretch of sand is a great place to build sandcastles, play in the water, enjoy a game of beach volleyball, ride bikes on the trail that borders the sand, stroll the pier, and watch surfers hang ten. Newport Beach is also very nice and offers a similar experience.

The sand around San Clemente Pier and T Street Beach is a great place to enjoy the classic SoCal beach experience in the southern portion of Orange County. There is great surfing on the north side of the pier and boogie boarding on the south end. There is also plenty of sand for the kids to play on, and lots of food options within walking distance of your beach umbrella.

If you are looking for an amazing beach for family photos, check out Treasure Island Beach in Laguna Beach. This beach is incredibly scenic and even has a sandstone arch. It sits just below the famed Montage Laguna Beach .

Capture incredible memories of your Orange County family vacation with Flytographer . Flytographer has a network of incredible professional photographers ready to come to you and help your family create the ultimate souvenir of your special trip. Trekaroo is proud to be a Flytographer customer and affiliate.

I could go on and on about the great beaches in Orange County, but we have a great article about the best beaches in Southern California that you can read instead.

Explore Tide Pools

Alright, I lied. I am going to keep going on and on about our Orange County beaches because they are great! One of my families favorite things to do at the beach when the water is too cold for swimming is explore tide pools.

Little Corona Del Mar Beach  is my favorite place to go tide pooling in all of Orange County . Large tide pools filled with anemones, urchins, crabs, and star fish line this small stretch of beach tucked away off a residential street in Corona Del Mar. 

As your kids walk further down the beach and climb up and over the rocks, they will be delighted to find a sea cave or two .

Main Beach  in Laguna Beach sits like a jewel at the end of Laguna Canyon, beckoning families to enjoy a stroll on the boardwalk and swim in the aqua waters.

It has some tide pools at the north end of the beach that are good to explore when the tides are low. There are often docents out with tide pool identification charts to loan visitors. Art galleries and restaurants line the downtown area across the street from the beach.

Crystal Cove is home to tide pools filled with marine life like hermit crabs, seas anemones, sea urchins, and limpets.  Docent-led tide pool expeditions make for wonderfully educational family outings.

Crystal Cove State Park is one of my favorite beaches because it is preserved to look just as it did 100 years ago. There are even restored beach cottages on the sand that you can rent from the state park!

Sea lions and dolphins can be seen frolicking because the water here is nearly translucent. Grab an ice cream shake at Ruby’s Shake Shack overlooking the historic district of Crystal Cove and discover why this is a favorite beach for Orange County locals.

Headed south? Here are our favorite things to do in San Diego with kids .

Learn to Surf

Surfing is a huge part of Orange County culture and kids grow up attending surf camps and Junior Lifeguard programs in the summer. There are quite a few great places to learn how to surf in Orange County and lots of great programs for families.

My favorite beach for kids to learn how to surf is Doheny State Beach because of the long shore break and smaller waves . Girl in the Curl is a great female-led company that teaches kids to surf beginning as young as age five.

My kids have also taken lessons at the beach adjacent to San Clemente Pier, a great place to learn how to surf.

Huntington Beach, aka Surf City, is another popular spot to take surf lessons . There are several outfitters ready to get eager water lovers up on the boards. Wetsuits and boards are provided because the SoCal waters can be a bit chilly depending on the currents.

If you happen to be in Orange County during the end of July or beginning of August, you will definitely want check out the US Open of Surfing which takes place annually in Huntington Beach . It is so fun to check out the pros in action and there are usually BMX and skateboarding events to help round out the fun.

Celebrate Art at Pageant of the Masters and Sawdust Art Festival

Laguna Beach has long been known as a haven for artists, and galleries with ocean views line the downtown area. Most kids don’t have the patience for endless hours of strolling art galleries, but they will love the hands-on fun of the Sawdust Art Festival .

This annual festival takes place most of the summer in Laguna Canyon, and has a sister festival, Winter Fantasy, that takes place during the holiday season.

In addition to great art, jewelry, and assorted trinkets for sale, the festival also has lots of free classes available for everyone ages seven and up. Classes include art forms such as painting, printmaking, and mixed media.

There is also a ceramic center where artists will help kids make their own pottery masterpieces for free. For a small fee they will fire your pot or vase and have it shipped directly to your house when it is done.

Pageant of the Masters is one of those experience that has to be seen to be truly believed. Locals get made up and pose to look exactly like famous painting and statues. It is truly remarkable to see what looks to be characters in a famous oil painting suddenly move to remind you that they are, in fact, real people!

The Pageant of the Masters is held in an outdoor amphitheater and has a professional orchestra and live narration to go along with the intricate sets. Since this amazing experience does require kids to sit quietly in an audience for 90 minutes, it is best suited for kids eight and up.

Learn Via Hands-on Science at Discovery Cube OC Science Center

What kid doesn’t love a good hands-on science museum? Discovery Cube OC is the region’s largest museum for children and is dedicated to helping kids learn through a wide variety interactive exhibits.

Highlights include a virtual helicopter tour of Orange County, a Science of Hockey exhibit, a water lab that kids can’t seem to get enough of, and the infamous bed of nails. Be sure to make time to head outside and explore the dinosaur-themed play area as well.

Experience Thrills and Food at Knotts Berry Farm

For 100 years, Knotts Berry Farm has been an Orange County mainstay. It began as an actual farm where the Knott family sold their berries, pies, and jams at a roadside stand. Add in some famous fried chicken, a replica ghost town, and a bunch of rides, and suddenly, the Knott family had a theme park!

Today, Knott’s Berry Farm is known for its thrilling roller coasters, Camp Snoopy kiddie rides for the little ones, and its annual Boysenberry Festival filled with amazing food. And, of course, there is still that amazing fried chicken.

If you happen to visit during October with teens who loves a good fright, you definitely won’t want to miss Knott’s Scary Farm which is filled with haunted houses and plenty of opportunities to get the daylight scared out of you!

During the summer months, Knott’s Soak City is a great place to cool off on a hot day. This 15-acre waterpark has two dozen waterslides, a lazy river, huge wave pool, and three-story water play structure.

Visiting during the holidays? Check out Knotts Merry Farm! It is one of several great experiences highlighted in our article about the best Christmas events in Orange County .

Enjoy a Meal and a Show at Medieval Times and Pirate Adventure

There are two different dinner shows in Buena Park, near Knott’s Berry Farm, that are great experiences for families.

Watch knights joust and fight it out on their mighty steeds during the two-hour show at Medieval Times . This dinner show is wildly popular with families and includes a four-course meal. Every kids loves a meal that they can eat with their hands and at Medieval Times, that is encouraged.

If pirates are more your things, check out Pirates Dinner Adventure . The show is set on a pirate ship in the center of a lagoon (seating is around it in the arena). It features stunts and plenty of swashbuckling swordplay along with a princess and a mermaid.

Like Medieval Times, the prices of admission does include a four-course dinner, and there are special diet accommodations available.

Kayak the Newport Back Bay

Kids as young as eight can paddle alongside an adult in the Back Bay’s saltwater estuary, home to a wide variety of birds and endangered species. Kayaks can be rented from the Newport Aquatic Center . Guided tours led by the Newport Bay Conservancy are available on weekends.

If your kids aren’t old enough to kayak, you can still enjoy the beauty of the Back Bay. The Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center is free to visit and features nice exhibits where kids of all ages can learn about the estuary, its inhabitants, and its importance to the ecosystem. There is also special programming for toddlers and preschoolers.

After you visit the center, head towards the water and walk a portion of the 11-mile Back Bay Loop trail. It is also a great place to ride a bike.

Make a Splash at the Newport Dunes Inflatable Water Park

Newport Dunes Resort is a resort on Upper Newport Bay which hosts RV and cottage stays, but many of the resort’s incredible amenities are open for day use as well.

Families can rent duffy boats, kayaks, and even paddle boards that light up so you can explore the bay at night! They also host outdoor movies on the bay all summer long which are popular with locals and visitors alike.

The most popular experience offered at Newport Dunes is the inflatable water park set up on the bay every summer. This inflatable water park is the largest in all of Southern California and has all sorts of water trampolines, slides, and inflatable structures to climb on.

Get Dirty at Adventure Playground Huntington Beach or Irvine

There are regular old playgrounds with swings and slides, and then there is Adventure Playground Huntington Beach. This amazing play space is designed to encourage kids to play hard and get dirty.

There is a fort building area (complete with hammers and real nails), a slide where kids can slide down a wet tarp into a pool of muddy water, a rope bridge, and even rafts that kids can paddle across a shallow pool with sticks.

Tennis shoes are required and a change of clothes is highly recommended. The playground is designed for kids ages 5-12 and only open during the summer months. There is a small fee for entry.

Irvine has its own Adventure Playground as well. This playground is a bit more civilized, but still has plenty of opportunities to get wet and dirty. It is open year round so if Adventure Playground HB is closed, head here instead.

There is a castle play structure with sand toys, concrete slides, a very shallow muddy pond to play in, giant building blocks to construct whatever their imagination dreams up, climbing poles, and even an art space.

These types of Adventure Playgrounds are quite rare in the United States. There are only nine in total and Orange County is proud to host two of them, so if your kids haven’t had a chance to enjoy this kinds of unstructured play before, make it a priority.

Enjoy Some Old Fashioned Fun on the Balboa Peninsula

Take the tiny car ferry from Balboa Island to the Balboa Peninsula, home of the Balboa Fun Zone, some great beaches, and the Balboa Pier.

The car ferry is a a thrill unto itself because it is very small and low to the water, so it almost feels like you are driving across the bay yourself! You can also park on Balboa Island and take the ferry as a passenger for just $1.25 for adults or 50 cents for kids 11 and under.

Make sure to grab a frozen banana from one of the stands on Balboa Island or on the Balboa Peninsula. They are a Balboa mainstay and are especially well known after they were featured in Arrested Development .

The Balboa Fun Zone is an old-fashioned amusement area that has been around since the 1930s. There are a few rides, including the popular Ferris Wheel, as well as an arcade.

West of the Fun Zone, families will find a playground on the beach and a great stretch of sand near the Balboa Pier. At the end of the pier is Ruby’s , a classic 1940’s-themed diner with great burgers and shakes (my favorite is the peanut butter cup shake).

Ride the Balloon at the Great Park

After El Toro Marine Corps Air Station was decommissioned in 1999, a debate immediately began over what to do with the 4,682 acres of prime Irvine real estate. Some wanted an airport, but most wanted green spaces and a wonderful park that would be a highlight of the region.

Ultimately, much of the acreage went to housing (sigh), but 1300 acres were set aside to build the Orange County Great Park.

The most well-known attraction at the park is the Great Park Balloon , a bright orange tethered helium balloon that soars 400 feet above Orange County. The balloon is open to riders of all ages and offers 40-mile views in all directions on a clear day.

Next to the balloon is the Great Park Carousel , a fun ride for little ones at only $3 a ride. Note: the carousel is closed for refurbishments until Fall 2021.

Next to the balloon and carousel is a large playground which has several play structures as well as a zip line. There are also dozens of pristine sports fields that are much nicer than those you and I grew up playing on!

Another great attraction at the OC Great Park is the Food & Farm Lab which has a variety of themed raised-bed gardens, fruit trees, vertical gardening, a worm compost bin, and even chickens. It is a great place to learn about where food comes from and discover how your family can grow food in small spaces.

The Palm Court Arts Complex is home to the Great Park Gallery, Great Park Artist Studios, and Hangar 244. The gallery features rotating exhibitions. There is also a walkable timeline that was built on one of the old taxiways of the Air Station that highlights major events of the 1940s.

If you happen to visit the park on a Sunday don’t miss the Farmer’s Market that runs from 10-2PM and features farm fresh goods, locally crafted items, and food trucks.

Splash the Day Away at Wild Rivers

My grandfather once served at El Toro Marine Corps Air Station so it was pretty special to see my kids get hir4ed for their first job at Wild Rivers which was built on the former Marine Station land inside of the Great Park.

Wild Rivers is the best water park in Orange County, and it continues to expand and get better with each season. It is typically open from late May through September. There are over 15 slides to enjoy plus a wave pool and a lazy river.

They provide life jackets for young children and have a special play area just for them! There are also cabanas for rent, special events throughout the summer, and great discounts for seniors.

Go for a Hike

One of my favorite things about living in Orange County is the incredible access to nature that we have. There are so many great trails for families, from wilderness park adventures to hikes with amazing coastal views.

Here are a few of my family’s favorite places to hike in Orange County:

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

This park is located in Laguna Canyon and has a number of great trails. Our favorite hike is a 3.5-mile loop combining Willow Canyon and Laurel Canyon.

Crystal Cove State Park

This park has great beaches and trails, so work up a sweat in the hills above the ocean before descending into Moro Canyon and then cooling off in the water. We like the 2-mile No Dogs Trail/Moro Canyon loop.

San Clemente Beach Trail

The San Clemente Beach Trail is a great dog-friendly walk along several beaches in San Clemente. There is very little elevation change and a couple different food stands along the way to stop for snacks.

The trail begins at the North Beach Metrolink Station and ends at San Clemente State Beach and is 2.3 miles in length. Pick it up at either of those locations or near the San Clemente Pier and walk for as long as you like.

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park

Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park is located in Lake Forest, and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking. Take the Borrego Canyon Trail to the Red Rock Canyon Trail which ends at a canyon that looks like it is in Moab instead of OC.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve is a protected wetland in Huntington Beach. It is a great place to observe wildlife. The Slough Trail is a 1.5 mile loop with no elevation gain. It starts with a long wooden bridge that provides great observation of the water below. We have seen sharks in the wetlands on more than one occasion!

Aliso and Woods Canyons Wilderness Park

This wilderness park is hidden in between Aliso Viejo and Laguna Beach. Kids especially love taking the trail to Dripping Cave, an old hideout for stagecoach robbers. There are rocks with nooks and crannies to explore and climb along the way.

Take the Train to Mission San Juan Capistrano

Kids love trains and parents love any opportunity to bring history to life. Make everyone happy by riding the Metrolink train to Mission San Juan Capistrano from various stops around Orange County, including Anaheim and Irvine.

The train station is located right across the street from the Mission in a charming neighborhood filled with restaurants and fun little tourist shops.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is known as the “Jewel of the Missions” and dates back to 1776 which is ancient history by California standards. There is an audio tour especially designed for kids and there are usually hands-on demonstrations (like make your own adobe brick) on weekends and holidays.

Watch the Angels and Ducks Play

Orange County is home to two professional sports teams with big followings- The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim and the Anaheim Ducks.

While many of us OC locals find it incredibly annoying that they renamed the Angels to associate them with LA, they are still very much an Orange County team with a dedicated following.

Angels games are incredibly family friendly with themed days, fireworks during summer evenings, and opportunities for kids to run the bases on select dates.

The Anaheim Ducks are equally beloved, and watching their games is a great family outing. There is usually a fan zone set up in front of the ice rink before games where kids can play games. There really isn’t a bad seat at the Honda Center where the Ducks play, and the constant action keeps everyone entertained.

Looking for an adult-only evening? Check out these things for couples to do in Anaheim .

Go Whale Watching

Every winter gray whales embark on a great migration from the Northern Pacific down to their birthing grounds in the waters off Baja Mexico. During this journey they pass through the waters off Orange County, making it a prime destination for whale watching.

Dana Point is a hub for whale watching activity. Gray whales use Dana Point, a cliff protruding out towards the sea, as a migration marker on their journey to Baja. Dana Point hosts the  Festival of Whales  during the first two weekends in March every year.

Summer is prime season to see the blue whales, the largest animals on the planet! Throughout the year fin whales (the second largest whales), minke whales, humpback whales, dolphins, sea lions, and even the occasional orca can be spotted.

Book your whale watching trip with Dana Wharf or a whale watching cruise out of Newport Beach. If you happen to be in Dana Point on a Tuesday, you can take advantage of half price whale watching for adults!

Go Fishing with Dana Wharf Sportfishing

Do you have kids who love to fish and want to try their hand at ocean sportfishing? Dana Wharf offers a sportfishing clinic for kids 5-12 every Sunday for just $10. For that price participants will also receive a free ticket & fishing equipment for the Sunday Afternoon 1/2 Day Fishing Trip.

There are fishing trips daily and Dana Wharf has half price fishing trips on Tuesdays. Anglers catch tasty fish such as halibut, yellowtail, sea bass, and tuna.

Pick Fruits and Veggies at Tanaka Farms

Long before Orange County became the massive sea of humanity that it is today, it was nothing more than farms and ranches. Lima beans, citrus, and sugar beets were the main crops, and agriculture was the driver of its rural economy.

Today, over 3.5 million live in OC, but thanks to Tanaka Farms in Irvine, our children can still learn about where food comes from and pay homage to the county’s agricultural past. The farm was established in 1940 and has been in an important Orange County fixture for generations.

Tanaka Farms has fun things going on year round, including wagon farm tours and u-pick vegetables. Strawberry picking is a fun spring activity, watermelon are a mainstay in the summer, and the wildly popular pumpkin patch shouldn’t be missed in the fall.

Tanaka Farms also has a new location in Costa Mesa which is flower focused. There are opportunities to pick your own sunflowers. Just imagine the Instagram pictures you can snag at this spot!

Spend the Day at Irvine Regional Park

Irvine Regional Park is the county’s oldest park, founded in 1897. It is a great place to spend the day because there are so many fun attractions within the park for families to enjoy. Contrary to what the name of the park might suggest, this park is located in Orange, not Irvine.

The biggest highlight of the park for many youngsters is the Irvine Park Railroad . This 1/3 scale train takes passengers on open air rides around the park. There is a special Christmas train and festivals filled with fun during the Easter, Halloween, and holiday season.

The park has pony rides for little kids and horseback rides for older children. There are also bike rentals, surrey rentals, paddle boat rentals, and even horseshoe and volleyball set rentals.

The park features the small-but-fun Orange County Zoo which features animals that live (or once lived) in the area such as bears, mountain lions, and a variety of reptiles.

There are a few different playgrounds and snack bars at the park as well, but I suggest bringing a picnic and making a day of it!

Mountain Bike Orange County’s Trails

Orange County is home to some of the best mountain biking in the country because the trails are so easily accessible and great to ride.

My family’s favorite places to ride include Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park in Lake Forest, Santiago Oaks Regional Park in Orange, Aliso and Woods Canyon Wilderness Park in Aliso Viejo, and San Clemente Single Tracks near San Onofre State Beach.

If you would rather stick to flatter ground and even get some assistance with your pedaling, perhaps an E-bike by the beach is more your speed. There are E-bike rentals in Huntington Beach and Laguna Beach .

American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park

Do you have any fans of American Ninja Warrior in your family? Now is their chance to tackle various obstacles and conquer the warped wall at the American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park . How awesome is that? There are Monkey Swings, Spider Walls, Tilting Logs, and Floating Bridges in the 10,000 sqaure foot park filled with fun.

The current location is in the Main Place Mall in Santa Ana but there are locations popping up in Yorba Linda and Mission Viejo soon!

Play Grownup at Pretend City

Let your kids spend a few hours playing grownup at Pretend City in Irvine .

This children’s museum is designed as a small city with a grocery store, construction site, art studio, house, café, bank, art studio, marina waterplay area, and theater for burgeoning performers. You might have to drag your kids out of there because they are having way too much fun (been there, done that).

Play with Animals at Zoomars and Prehistoric Pets

There are two different petting zoos in Orange County which are sure to delight your animal-loving little ones. They each have a very different collection of animals.

The first one is Zoomars , an adorable petting zoo across the train track from Mission San Juan Capistrano. It is geared toward little kids ages seven and under.

They have a guinea pig pen where kids can pet, hold, and feed these adorable critters. There is also a sheep and goat pen, pony rides, a small playground, mining, a mini train, as well as mini excavators and tractors to ride.

The second is Prehistoric Pets in Fountain Valley. This spot is part reptile shop, part reptile zoo and absolutely filled with critters! There are so many snakes, lizards, turtles and even alligators. For a small fee you can even feed turtles or get your picture taken with a snake.

Monkey Around at the Santa Ana Zoo

The Santa Ana Zoo is small in size but perfect for families with young kids. It is home to an impressive monkey collection and Tierra de las Pampas, a new South America- focused exhibit which anteaters, guanacos, and rheas.

The zoo also has a train, playground, carousel, Ferris wheel, and farm, all of which are popular with kids 10 and under.

Climb the Day Away at Sender City

There are rock climbing gyms popping up all over the country but Sender City inside of Sender One Climbing in Santa Ana is something special.

It is specifically designed for newer climbers and is colorful, just challenging enough, and so much fun! The theme of the Santa Ana location is Funtopia and there are a variety of themed climbing challenges for both kids (over 40lbs) and adults.

Some of the obstacles include a fun glow-in-the-dark tunnel, a brick city facade, cogs, ladders, and a super steep (and super fun) drop slide.

Learn About Rescued Wildlife at the Pacific Marine Mammal Center

For 50 years, the Pacific Marine Mammal Center has been dedicated to the rescue and conservation of the marine mammals that call the waters off Orange County home.

The center is located in Laguna Canyon and almost entirely run by volunteers. Visitors can see a variety of rescued pinnipeds in recovery including California sea lions, harbor seals, fur seals, and elephant seals. It is a great place to learn about these precious animals and the importance of conservation.

Note: Admission is free but donations are greatly appreciated.

Shop and Ride at the Irvine Spectrum

All shopping malls are not created equal. Some have a bunch of empty store faces and a depressing vibe. The Irvine Spectrum has world-class shopping, tons of great restaurants, and rides!

Yes, you read that right. My mall has rides! Just imagine how much easier it will be to convince the kids to let you spend a couple hours shopping if you can can throw in some treats from the Hello Kitty Cafe and a ride on the Ferris wheel! Kids will also love the train, carousel, and water fountains to play in.

In addition to the great food and shops, there is also an Imax movie theater and a comedy club (date night anyone?). There is also a Dave and Buster’s which is always popular with kids of all ages.

Have an Aquatic Adventure at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Aquarium of the Pacific may not technically be in Orange County, but is in OC’s next door neighbor, Long Beach, and definitely worth the trip. It is the largest aquarium in Southern California and has great exhibits where you can gets hands-on with jellyfish, coral, sea stars, sea cucumbers, stingrays and even sharks!

There are dozens of large tanks filled with fish from all over the Pacific Ocean, as well as penguins, frogs, sea otters, seals, and sea lions. The Aquarium also has an outdoor boat-themed play area to give kiddos space to play.

Trekaroo Tip:  The Aquarium of the Pacific hosts whale watching tours. You will need to book a reservation ahead of time.  You can  book your whale watching trip  here .

Disneyland Resort

You didn’t think I would write an article about all the fun things to do in Orange County with kids and leave out Disney did you? Of course not! OC locals LOVE Disneyland and I have visited the parks more times than I can count.

Trekaroo has so many great resources to help you plan your Disneyland Resort Vacation that you will want to read before you book your Disney vacation.

Book your Disneyland Resort tickets in advance and save time and money. Trekaroo is an Undercover Tourist affiliate so that we can extend great savings to our readers .

It opened back on July 17, 1955 and has been beloved by Orange County residents and visitors from all around the world ever since. Disneyland is the original and for many of us, it really is the “Happiest Place on Earth”.

From classic original rides like Snow White and King Arthur’s Carousel, to new and exciting adventures in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge where you can pilot the Millennium Falcon and join the Resistance, this park really does have something for everyone.

Here are our 20 favorite rides at the Disneyland Resort .

If you haven’t visited Disneyland recently, you definitely will want to read my article filled with dozens of amazing Disneyland tips . Walt Disney said the park would never be finished, and wanted it to constantly be evolving. We at Trekaroo eagerly follow and report on the latest changes.

Disney California Adventure

Disney California Adventure (or DCA as we locals call it) opened in 2001 and over the past couple decades has gone from the ugly stepsister of Disneyland to a park that rivals the original. Highlights of DCA include Cars Land, Pixar Pier, and the newly opened Avengers Campus .

One of my favorite things about Disney California Adventure is the food. There always seems to be some sort of festival going on (my favorite it the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival) with creative food and beverage options to satisfy all us foodies. Of course, there is also always character dining to keep the little ones excited.

Downtown Disney

Want a taste of the Disney magic without having to pay for a theme park ticket? Then head to Downtown Disney! This shopping, dining, and entertainment district is on Disney Resort property and is filled with fun.

Disney fanatics will want to head to the World of Disney store which is filled plush, toys, pins, houseware, clothing, pins, jewelry, art and practically whatever else you can imagine in a Disney theme. There are also a specific Disney Home, Disney Dress Shop, and Disney Pin Traders.

Beyond Disney-themed stores other highlights include the Lego Store, Splitsville Luxury Lanes, and popular restaurants like Ballast Point Brewing Company and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen.

Where to Stay in Orange County with Kids

There are so many great hotels and resorts in Orange County that it can be hard to choose which one to call home base as you explore the area. Here are a few of my favorites.

Ritz Carlton Laguna Niguel

This gorgeous luxury hotel sits on a bluff above Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point. The views and location are hard to beat. The property has an amazing Eco-Adventure Center where guests can sign up for whale-watching excursions, surf lessons, cooking classes, golf, and more.

During the holiday season the resort has an impressive gingerbread display and several amazingly decorated Christmas trees.

Book your stay at the Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel. Trekaroo is thrilled to offer our readers the lowest rates guaranteed.

Splurge and stay on the concierge level where guests have free reign at various food options which are served throughout the day as well as complimentary beverages, including alcohol.

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa

The Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach is another great resort hotel with a fabulous location. It sits just across the street from all the action at Huntington Beach. The property has contemporary rooms and expansive suites.

The pool has cabanas, a splash pad, two pools, and a couple water slides and the beach is right across the street so waterplay is endless. The resort’s firepits are fun places to roast marshmallows in the evenings. Beach umbrellas and chairs can be picked up at concierge and bike rentals and a video arcade amp up the fun.

Disneyland Hotel

This magical hotel delights families with headboards that play “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes”, character greetings in the lobby, and many interactive experiences such as learning to draw Mickey Mouse. 

The Disneyland Hotel is in a prime location with easy access to the Monorail Station in Downtown Disney, taking families directly to Disneyland’s Tomorrowland . Be sure to reserve at least one afternoon of your vacation for splashing down the Monorail slide and swimming in the E-Ticket Pool.

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa

A stay at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa  is a splurge but it is also filled with Disney magic. The Craftsman-style architecture instantly whisks you away from Orange County and drops you into a luxurious National Park lodge with high ceilings, wood beams, and a roaring warm fire filling the lobby.

This resort basically has Disney California Adventure Park right in it’s backyard- many of the rooms have views of the park- and there is a special entrance into the park for hotel guests.

Character breakfasts and fine dining options are available; put the kids in kid’s club and enjoy a meal at Napa Rose- you won’t regret it!

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Cruises Make Great Birthday Weekend Getaways

Throw your kid a party they won't forget.

By Heidi Sarna | Published on April 29, 2024

Birthdays are the best time of year to celebrate your loved ones, especially your children. As your child's birthday approaches this year, consider making a bigger splash than a routine visit to your local arcade or trampoline park. Go for the ultimate wow factor and get away with your family for a celebration on a cruise ship — your go-to for the best birthday weekend getaways.

Cruises make the best weekend trips for birthdays because they offer immersive fun for all ages. Trade planning birthday parties for seamless celebrations everyone in your crew can enjoy. And let the ship, which caters to the younger set with nonstop bow-to-stern fun, serve as their playground. I can't think of a more perfect setting for the best birthday trips.

As a mom who has delighted in celebrating my twin sons' birthdays on Royal Caribbean cruise ships, I'm thrilled to offer my top tips for planning the best birthday cruises, ensuring your kid's next birthday is one they'll never forget.

How To Choose The Right Ship And Itinerary

Every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet is a potentially great choice for weekend birthday trips. The stage is set the minute you board, with the engaging crew on the gangway — your very own birthday weekend welcome wagon. The buzz is palpable, and a festive vibe permeates the air.

While the ship and its amenities provide the ultimate birthday backdrop, the destinations you visit will also be great opportunities to make memories. Which itineraries promise the best birthday weekend getaways? Well, that's easy, in my opinion. The best birthday cruises are Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises to The Bahamas.

Three-night cruises depart Fridays from three Florida ports — Orlando (Port Canaveral), Ft. Lauderdale and Miami . All of these sailings feature the best way to spend a birthday in paradise: a visit to Perfect Day at CocoCay , Royal Caribbean's private island in The Bahamas.

The Party Starts In Your Stateroom

Royal Caribbean offers a variety of birthday trip celebratory gifts that you can pre-order in advance (or once you're onboard — a win for my fellow procrastinators out there). Classic Royal Caribbean packages include a magnetic "Happy Birthday" sign for your door, while your stateroom is adorned with a birthday garland and festive decor.

Tap into your inner creativity and stash a few extra decorations from home in your suitcase (don't forget some magnets if you want to put more birthday decor on the cabin door). I've found that photos or cutouts of my kids' favorite film characters, superheroes or animals work great.

I packed a few rolls of colorful crepe streamers to celebrate my twin sons' eighth birthdays on a birthday weekend getaway, looping nautical-themed blue and white streamers around their cabin bunk beds as they slept so they'd wake up to festive vibes. I also went to the onboard shop and purchased cute inflatable ships to place around the stateroom and captain's hats for our family to wear. Signifying we were on a birthday trip brought many welcome cheers from the ship's excellent crew as well as guests.

No perfect birthday weekend getaway is complete without cake. Royal Caribbean can help by delivering your sweets , too. Choose a vanilla or chocolate birthday cake, a box of mini vanilla or red-velvet cupcakes or request chocolate-chunk brownies, which can arrive at your stateroom to kick off your celebrations. I fondly recall a birthday cruise with Grandpa and Grandma in tow. We started the all-day birthday celebrations for my boys nice and early with ice-cream sundaes at Ben & Jerry's® for breakfast!

The Best Birthday Activities Onboard

If you were celebrating on land, you might rent a party space or take the kids to an amusement park for their birthday. On a Royal Caribbean cruise, the stage is already set with countless included activities for all ages.

A day onboard quickly fills with fun for all ages, from mini golf to rock climbing, zip lines and water slides, not to mention my kids' favorite, the FlowRider® surf simulator. Much of the fun is included in your cruise fare, with a few options offered at an additional charge, like the RipCord® by iFLY® skydiving simulator on Quantum Class ships. It's totally worth it, by the way.

I can't forget to mention the fun for kids joining the Adventure Ocean® Youth Program. A highlight of my sons' weekend birthday cruise was making new friends, dabbling in some arts and crafts and participating in wacky science experiments in their age-appropriate grouping.

You can always put on your thinking cap (or birthday hat) and design a little treasure hunt for your wee ones. I did this once, drawing a simple treasure map for my sons' birthday that led them around the ship to find six special birthday surprises — a slice of pizza, an ice cream cone, the toy section of the gift shop, roller-skating tag with mom, etc. Royal Caribbean ships are ready-made for special event cruises, so make the most of it.

Perfect Port Days

The best birthday weekend getaways include a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. When it's time to take the party from the ship to the shore, Perfect Day at CocoCay is ready for you.

Almost all of Royal Caribbean's weekend cruises out of Florida call on the cruise line's private island. It's an island paradise that truly caters to the whole family, especially kids. Eat as many burgers, hot dogs and fries as you want at the island's five complimentary dining spots when you're not jumping for joy in the giant Oasis Lagoon®, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.

Birthday kids can live it up splashing around Captain Jill's Galleon℠, a shipwreck complete with geysers, slides and drench buckets, and the Splashaway Bay℠ water park for the smallest swashbucklers with fountains, pools, mini waterslides and more.

When you need a break from the party pace, unwind on the powdery sands of Chill Island® and South Beach — family-friendly spots with beach chairs and umbrellas lined up and waiting.

And since you've got a birthday to celebrate, why not spring for Thrill Waterpark® ? With a floating trampoline, wave pool and 13 waterslides, it's a great place to let little ones have a blast and earn bragging rights. Did I mention one of the attractions is the tallest waterslide in North America at 135 feet?

Your kid's special day wouldn't be complete without a ride on Up, Up and Away, a helium balloon that takes guests soaring 450 feet up for out-of-this-world views from the highest vantage point in The Bahamas.

Customizing Birthday Cruises: Top Tips

Whenever you're sailing with Royal Caribbean, you'll see many groups celebrating. It's fun to see many families and groups kitted out in matching T-shirts, baseball caps and accessories designed with the birthday kid's name. Consider planning ahead with your own custom-designed clothing to make your weekend party cruise that much more fun.

Of course, in the dining room at any given time, you can hear the sound of "Happy Birthday" being sung by the servers and fellow guests eager to join in the revelry. Make sure you mention to your waiter that there's a birthday kid in your party.

Think outside of the birthday box and see how you can customize your weekend birthday cruise to suit your preferences and requirements. With some planning, sometimes private spaces onboard the ship can be reserved, and special food and music arranged — especially if you're traveling with the extended family or a group of friends. Contact the Royal Gifts department (or Groups Department , if you're traveling with a large group of friends and family) to see what can be put together.

Capturing The Birthday Fun

The ship's professional photographers will be happy to capture precious moments of your sailing, including a weekend birthday cruise bash. Get the family dressed in their finest — or maybe in the matching T-shirts you brought along or the captains' hats you bought in the gift shop — and make some seriously fun memories to cherish forever.

If you have special thoughts about where you want your photos taken, talk to the photography team. They're a friendly crew with lots of ideas. When your photo shoot is over, you can purchase your favorite pictures in digital form or as prints — it's up to you.

The icing on the birthday cake? Royal Caribbean's family- and birthday-friendly weekend cruises often include frequent offers for families like complimentary sailing for kids if they stay in the same stateroom as their parents. Now that's a birthday present for the adults, too!

Written By HEIDI SARNA

Heidi Sarna, a freelance writer who specializes in cruising, is a contributor to Frommer's, Travel Weekly, CNBC.com and The Points Guy, among others. Heidi has taken more than 125 cruises and has visited 78 countries and counting.

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