best day tours from nyc

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

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

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

Table of Contents

27 Amazing Day Trips from New York

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

Day Trip from NYC to Boston

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

Distance: 220 Miles (4 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Boston

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

Helpful links

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

Day Trip from New York to Washington D.C.

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

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Washington D.C.

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

Day Trip from NYC to Philadelphia

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

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

Distance: 100 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Philadelphia

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

Want to see both?

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

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Weekend getaway to Philadelphia & Amish Country

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

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

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

Day Trips from NYC to Niagara Falls

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Albany

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park

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

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

Distance: 50 Miles (1 hour by car)

Day Trip from NYC to the Hamptons

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Rockaway Beach

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

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

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

Things To Do at Rockaway Beach

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

Places To See at Rockaway Beach

• Jacob Riis Park
• Rockaway Community Park
• Bayswater Park

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the Finger Lakes

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

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

Distance: 260 Miles (5 hours by car)

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

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

Places To See on your Day Trip from New York

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

Day Trip from NYC to Baltimore

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

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See

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

Day Trip from NYC to Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping Day Trip to the American Dream Mall

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Mohonk Preserve

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

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

Distance: 90 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to New Haven

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

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

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Hamilton Township

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Hamilton Township

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Shaky Bridge
• Tulpehaking Nature Center

Day Trip from NYC to The Palisades

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Phoenicia

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Phoenicia

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

Shopping Day Trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Poughkeepsie

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

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

Distance: 85 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Sleepy Hollow

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

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

Distance: 35 Miles (1 hour by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Sleepy Hollow

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

Day Trip from NYC to Ithaca

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

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

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Ithaca

• Cornell University Campus
• Taughannock Falls
• West End District

Weekend Getaway from NYC to Martha's Vineyard

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping Day Trip to the Garden State Plaza Mall

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

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the White Mountain National Forrest

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Atlantic City

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

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

Distance: 125 Miles (2 hours by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Atlantic City

• Lucy the Margate Elephant
• War memorials
• Absecon Lighthouse

Day Trip from NYC to Ocean City

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Ocean City

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

Our Favorite City Breaks

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

Day Trip to Washington D.C.

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

Day Trip to Boston

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

Philadelphia Day Trip from New York

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

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

Atlantic City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Poughkeepsie

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

For Nature Lovers

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

01 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: White Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

04 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

07 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Cold Spring

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

08 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Mohonk Preserve

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

Shopping Trips

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

01 Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip

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

02 American Dream

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

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

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

04 Jersey Gardens Outlet Center

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

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

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Washington, D.C.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read More: Top Things to Do in Cold Spring

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

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

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

Read More: Top Things to Do in Beacon

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

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

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

Official site: https://stormking.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Coney Island, Brooklyn 11224

Official site: http://coneyislandfunguide.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: https://govisland.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Official site: http://greenwoodgardens.org

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on New York

The 6 best day trips from New York City

Sep 21, 2023 • 6 min read

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

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

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

1. Free your spirit in Woodstock, New York

Travel time: 2 hours

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

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

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

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

Travel time: 1 hour

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

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

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

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

3. Hit the beach in Asbury Park, New Jersey 

Travel time: 1 hour, 15 minutes

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

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

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

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

4. Admire the artworks in Beacon, New York

Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

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

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

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

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

5. Float down the river in New Hope, Pennsylvania

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

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

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

6. Experience NYC's surf scene at the Rockaways

Travel time: 45 minutes

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

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

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

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

This article was first published October 2017 and updated September 2023

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25 Best Day trips from NYC In 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

United States

Updated On: April 5, 2024

New York City has no shortage of incredible  things to do . If you are planning a trip to the Big Apple, rest assured that you’ll have an exciting  itinerary  on your hands. But what about day trips from NYC? You can escape city life and explore the smaller country towns in the Hudson Valley or take a day trip to Philadelphia or Atlantic City. Whether you want hiking and biking trails or a glitzy day trip to a neighboring city, this guide will cover all the best day trips from NYC. Let’s dive straight in.

Table of Contents

Top Day Trips from NYC

New York is surrounded by fantastic day trip destinations, and Grand Central Station is just as functional as it is sightseeing-worthy. You could venture out using public transport like the train or Metro North or hire a rental car to visit somewhere off the beaten track.

1. Rockaway Beach

Rockaway Beach is a vast sandy beach on the outskirts of New York City . Its 5.5-mile boardwalk is a popular draw and, in summer, Rockaway Beach is the perfect spot to escape the city for beach volleyball or relaxing sunbathing. Visiting Rockaway Beach is easily a half-day activity, although you’ll probably want to stay longer. You can reach the beach in less than an hour by car, while public transport takes around an hour and a half.

Rockaway Beach is where to head on a day trip if you want a beach day, and it is a popular coastal getaway from New York City. The city can get stifling in summer, and this beach is a dreamy place to catch a coastal breeze and cool off in the waves.

• One hour from New York City

2. Philadelphia

New York City might be incredible, but you can still venture out to another nearby gem. Philadelphia is a city known for its history, and it sometimes feels like there is a national historical landmark at every corner. Liberty Bell is the most famous attraction in Philly and is considered a symbol of American Independence and civilian freedom. If you are interested in American history and politics, Philadelphia is the ideal day trip from NYC. Plus, you can catch public transport between the cities in just over an hour or drive between them in two hours.

Apart from Liberty Bell, you can visit Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Museum of the American Revolution. For many reasons, visiting Philadelphia is a popular day trip from NYC. You can view our full guide on things to do in Philadelphia  here .

You can book this highly rated tour from NYC to Philadelphia and Washington DC . Check off seeing three of America’s best cities (including NYC) with this trip as you leave early in the morning from New York and visit the iconic landmarks of Phili and DC including the Lincoln Memorial, White House, the U.S. Capitol, and Independence Hall.

• Two hours from New York City

3. Bear Mountain State Park

A day trip to Bear Mountain is one for hiking and nature lovers. Bear Mountain is a 1289 foot (393-meter) high peak in the Hudson Highlands and is just a one-hour drive from the center of New York City. Visitors can drive up Perkins Memorial Drive for beautiful views over the highlands; even better, you only need half a day to do so. Bear Mountain is popular because it is a scenic but convenient hike just a stone’s throw from New York City. And we think you’ll love it.

Bear Mountain State Park has 5,000 acres to explore and besides its famous peak visitors can enjoy activities like boating, skiing, fishing, and more.

The Bear Mountain Loop Trail is 3.8 miles and has 1154 feet of elevation gain. It is a reasonably medium-difficulty route and takes just a few hours to complete. You start at a parking lot by Bear Mountain Inn and loop past Hessian Lake, quickly reaching stunning views over the Hudson River and the surrounding peaks. Be prepared for a bit of scrambling and pack some sturdy hiking boots; it is one of those nature trails you crave after a few days of city life.

If you want to see the Hudson Valley from above, book this helicopter tour where travelers get a taste of the New England fall foliage aboard a private helicopter over the Hudson Valley. 

4. Woodstock

Music lovers, you’ve probably heard of Woodstock. The town in Ulster County is set a two-hour drive from the city and is one of the best day trips from NYC. The town is famed for the Woodstock Festival of 1969, which was essentially a hippie get-together as people gathered to use music as an outlet for growing socio-political tensions. In the face of events such as the Vietnam War, Woodstock Festival was a message of peace and unity.

Today, Woodstock is still famous for its music and art. You can stop by the Woodstock Artists Association and Museum or embrace nature at the Woodstock Waterfall Park. While the original Woodstock Festival was located on a nearby farm, many people also treat visiting Woodstock as a musical pilgrimage. If you are inspired by the story of 1969 or love musical history, it is a great day trip from NYC.

5. Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a tiny town in the Hudson Valley. Known for its antique shops and cute cafe culture, Cold Spring is a fantastic day trip from NYC. It is a brilliant choice if you want a small-town vibe after a few days in the constant flurry that is New York. You can easily spend half a day puttering around all the little shops and grabbing brunch. And in summer, you can enjoy picnics along the Hudson River. Cold Spring is just over an hour’s drive from the center of NYC or under two hours using public transport.

After an hour or two of antique shopping, Cold Spring has an extra selection of attractions that make it popular. Boscobel House and Gardens have 68 acres of diverse gardens to stroll, including woodland and dainty flowerbeds. There’s also the Putnam History Museum and West Point Foundry Preserve. Cold Spring has that small-town aesthetic, but you will never be short of entertainment options, which earns it its place on our list.

6. Fire Island

Fire Island is a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Long Island’s south shores. Rural, remote, and still ‘wild’, Fire Island is an adventurous day trip from New York for anyone wanting to escape beeping car horns and dodging the crowds. It is best known for its coastal reserve, the Fire Island National Seashore. Fire Island is only accessible by car and takes an hour and a half to reach from New York City center.

Visitors to the island can enjoy sunbathing, sailing, cycling, or admiring the famous Sunken Forest. The sunken forest got its name from the unique double dune system that protects the trees. None of which can grow taller than the dunes that protect them. Thus the forest is sunken in the dunes.

The island is an excellent spot for outdoor activities. Fire Island is a calming but versatile beach destination easily reached with a rental car – what more could you want on a sunny day? Note: If you do not have a car there is this Tour of Fire Island that leaves from the Long Island Rail Road Station on the Ronkonkoma Branch from Penn Station, Manhattan.

• One and a half hours from New York City

7. Storm King Mountain

Storm King Mountain sits in the center of Storm King State Park and rises over 13,123 feet (400 meters) above sea level. Just an hour and a half’s drive north of NYC, the mountain is a convenient nearby hike, which makes it popular with locals and tourists alike. The mound-like mountain is entirely covered in greenery and bursts out of the ground right next to the Hudson River, cutting a striking natural landmark. This mountain is the one for you if you want a hiking day trip.

As we are sure that you’ve already guessed, the mountain summit offers some beautiful views. You’ll be overlooking the Hudson River and all the surrounding greenery of the Hudson Valley countryside. It is a relatively easy five-mile hike to reach the summit, navigating a handful of mild switchbacks and mostly sticking to the easy footing on well-defined paths.

• One hour and a half from New York City

8. Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a dreamy spot to embrace nature outside NYC. The preserve boasts three lakes, more waterfalls than you can count, and hiking trails galore. Minnewaska State Park Preserve is also fantastic for rock climbing and biking if you want to leave your hiking boots behind and get a bit more adventurous. The preserve is only accessible by car, so rent a car, buckle up, and get ready for a two-hour drive through Hudson Valley.

The preserve has a pretty special location, perched on Shawangunk Mountain Ridge and overlooking the countryside of Ulster County. The preserve is known for cliffs, sweeping views, and natural water features. When you combine this with over 50 miles of hiking trails, it’s easy to see why it is such a sought-after location. For a day of hiking and natural attractions, Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a brilliant day trip from NYC.

9. Go cross-country skiing

So, if you are visiting New York in winter, what then? Many hiking trails close, and you might feel less enthusiastic about trudging around knee-deep in snow anyway. In winter, skiing is the answer. Outside the city center, you can visit fantastic ski resorts – spending your day on the slopes or exploring the countryside by cross-country skiing.

West Mountain is a popular place for skiing activities and is a few hours’ drive from NYC. For a resort experience, you could organize an overnight stay. However, it is close enough to visit for a day trip if you are short on time, especially if you are traveling with multiple drivers to split the driving time. Whether you are a total skiing newbie or an advanced skier, going cross-country skiing is a fun day trip from New York.

• Three hours from New York City

10. Governors Island

Governors Island is located smack bang in the middle of New York Harbor and is the perfect day trip from the city center. You can drive straight over to Governors Island via a connecting bridge from  Brooklyn , which takes less than half an hour (heavily dependent on traffic). Alternatively, catch a ferry ride to the island . Governors Island is one of the most central NYC day trips. If you are short on time, this is a realistic option for your list.

So, what is Governors Island? Governors Island is a 172-acre area that served as an early home for Dutch colonists who were initially wary of settling on the mainland. The island was then taken over by British rule in the late 17th century, coining its name ‘Governors Island’ after being reserved for His Majesty’s Governors. The island is open for public enjoyment, featuring recreation areas, cultural exhibits, and regular events and activities. You can even take a bike tour. This particular tour is the best one on the island and is likely to sell out! We suggest checking its schedule to see if anything catches your eye.

• 30 minutes from New York City

11. Atlantic City

Fancy a party break or another glitzy urban experience? Atlantic City is an outgoing, flashy coastal city just two hours from New York in New Jersey. The city is known for casinos and beaches, a popular niche for those wanting to let their hair down. If you want to combine multiple states in one trip, New Jersey is also a convenient addition, and you can always stop at attractions like Bass River State Forest on the way.

Like many cities around the US, Atlantic City has a large American-Italian population, and you can expect plenty of delicious restaurants and bars. While you visit Philadelphia for a day trip full of history, you visit Atlantic City for a day trip full of fun and partying. Atlantic City is a brilliant choice for an entertaining venture out of New York.

12. Iona Island Bird Sanctuary

Iona Island Bird Sanctuary is another of our NYC day trips for nature lovers. The sanctuary is on Iona Island, a 556-acre island an hour and a half drive from the city center. The island itself is lovely to explore and a great place to experience some off-the-beaten-track nature. You can also spot hundreds of birds, from common wetland birds to famous birds like the bald eagle. Whether you are a keen birdwatcher or want to immerse yourself in nature on an NYC day trip, Iona Island Bird Sanctuary is a beautiful spot for your itinerary.

You’ll need a car to visit Iona Island since navigating solely on public transport is tricky. But, if you have a rental car and enjoy finding more remote places on day trips, the sanctuary is an exciting spot to visit.

• An hour and a half from New York City

13. Go horseback riding in the Westchester County

There’s something ridiculously romantic about exploring the countryside on horseback, and what better place to do so than Westchester County? The county is sandwiched between two bodies of water – the Hudson Valley Sound and the Hudson River. It might be one of New York’s most populous counties, but it also has some stunning natural areas. You can ride along the beautiful waterfront and wooded trails with Westchester Trail Rides , stables are located just an hour and 20 minutes drive from the city center.

Cross streams, lope along woodland trails, and admire the Westchester scenery. Even better, the stables are also accessible via the Metro North. Horseback riding in Westchester County is an easy, romantic, and fun day trip from NYC.

• One hour and 20 minutes from New York City

14. Go wine tasting in North Fork

Did you know that award-winning wineries surround New York City? North Fork is the most famous region for wine tasting and is situated at the eastern end of Long Island – surrounded by water, which is said to be ideal for growing the perfect wine. It is nicknamed Long Island wine country and is a fantastic day trip when visiting NYC. The 30-mile stretch of the peninsula is around two and a half hours from the city center and is only accessible via car. However, to enjoy the tasting experience, we recommend booking a tour from NYC , which covers transportation for you.

Most of the best wineries are located along Main Road and include Peconic Bay Vineyards, Jason’s Vineyard, and Paumanok Vineyards. You could easily walk between them, although those who purchase tours will have the luxury of vehicle transfers. Wine tasting in Long Island’s North Fork is a fun activity, especially for wine enthusiasts wanting to experience New York’s take on vino.

• Two and a half hours from New York City

15. Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum

Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum is an attraction for history buffs. The 1796-built lighthouse was authorized by President George Washington and was the first ever lighthouse to be built in New York. It is now the fourth oldest working lighthouse in the US – a pretty staggering title. The museum is an adjoining attraction where you can learn more about the lighthouse and its history. One of the best ways to explore is on an electric bike. This tour takes you around the island with minimal effort.

Montauk Point Lighthouse has one of the longest travel times out of all our day trips and takes nearly four hours to reach by car. Because of this, we recommend pacing the drive out as a one-day road trip and stopping at attractions like Parrish Art Museum and Hook Windmill along the way. You could combine it with a beach day at East Hampton Main Beach. Take your time, take in the sights along the way, and have multiple drivers take turns at the wheel.

• Four hours from New York City

16. Sleepy Hollow Cemetery

Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is one of the strangest NYC day trips. Not only was the cemetery the focus of the story  The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , but it is also the burial place of many rich and famous people, including William Rockefeller. You can visit to spot famed resting places and tour the cemetery. If you are visiting New York in the fall, visiting Sleepy Hollow Cemetery is a popular, spooky activity, and the graveyard is exceptionally atmospheric.

The cemetery is an hour and a half drive or an hour on the metro. You can hop on at Grand Central Terminal and take the Hudson Line 745 to Philipse Manor, walking around fifteen minutes to reach the cemetery. Visiting this famed cemetery as a day trip from NYC is straightforward and an unusual addition to your itinerary.

17. Go ice skating at The Rink

New York has some tremendous ice-skating rinks; that much is for sure. However, The Rink is easily one of the best options if you are looking for an ice-skating day trip. The NHL regulation-size rink is just a forty-minute bus ride or drive from New York City center. You can don a pair of skates yourself or leave it to the professionals and watch a figure skating or hockey tournament. The Rink is fantastic as it caters to those who want to get involved and those who are ‘passionate onlookers’.

Wrap up warm and get excited to pull off or watch some cool moves; ice skating is one of NYC’s most entertaining day trips. For those wanting a winter sports experience but don’t want to venture to the nearest ski slopes, ice skating is also a great compromise.

• Forty minutes from New York City

18. New Hope Railroad

New Hope Railroad is a heritage railway just under two hours drive southwest of NYC. If you are a locomotive enthusiast or just love all things vintage, New Hope Railroad is a fascinating and immersive place to visit. It makes a great day trip for those who like to get involved and experience history for themselves. The 18-mile route has both steam and diesel trains, and visitors can embark on scenic rides through Buck Country.

New Hope Railroad is a perfect standalone day trip from NYC, but if you are okay with a longer travel day, consider combining it with a visit to Philadelphia. Philadelphia is just over an hour south of the railway – too close not to be tempted by surely.

19. Asbury Park

Asbury Park is another New Jersey gem just an hour’s drive from New York City. The seaside city is the perfect coastal getaway if you want a traditional seaside experience. You have everything from a wooden boardwalk to beach arcades with games and machines dating back to the 1930s. It is a popular destination for those wanting to unwind and have a fun, light-hearted day. Asbury Park will keep you entertained whether you are traveling as a family or just want to unleash your inner child.

You could relax on Asbury Park Beach, which has typically calm waters perfect for swimming or paddling. Otherwise, you could treat yourself to a meal overlooking the ocean, walk the scenic boardwalk, or spend a few hours in Silverball Retro Arcade. The best thing about Asbury Park is its old-world atmosphere; for a vintage beach day, don’t look any further.

20. Go on a boat cruise along the Hudson River

You can get river cruises everywhere in New York. One of the most popular things to do in New York City is to cruise up the East River for ultimate views of the cityscape and New York’s major waterfront attractions. Ready for more adventure, though? One of the best day trips from NYC is to head up the Hudson River on a cruise. You can usually take cruises straight from New York City , so your travel time is low, and the cruises usually last a few hours.

The Hudson River splits New Jersey and New York, with the state boundaries falling somewhere in the river itself. From New York City, you’ll cruise upstream, under the George Washington Bridge and past stunning scenery like Tallman Mountain State Park. You’ll also get to sightsee some of both states’ lesser-known attractions, including waterfront mansions like the Gothic revival property Lyndhurst Mansion. The Hudson River is one of the most famous rivers in the world and is nicknamed the ‘river that flows both ways’ because the flow is controlled by the tide. It is easy to see why the Hudson River makes such a popular day trip.

• A few hours from New York City

21. Go Seal and whale watching from Long Island

When you think of things to do near New York, whale watching probably isn’t one of them. The waters off of Long Island are full of marine animals, though, including humpback, fin, and North Atlantic right whales throughout summer and fall. Even if you don’t spot whales, you’ll likely see bottlenose or common dolphins.

The best way to see whales on a day trip from NYC is to book a whale-watching boat trip from Long Island . You can easily drive or take public transport to Long Island, enjoying a fully organized tour experience from there. If you’ve never seen whales up close, going whale watching from Long Island is one of the best wildlife day trips from NYC. Seeing whales in the wild is a humbling and awe-inspiring day trip – the perfect balance for a city break.

22. Storm King Art Center

Storm King Art Center is a day trip for art lovers. The open-air museum showcases a huge collection of contemporary sculptures, some so bizarre that you’ll be head-scratching for a while before you figure them out. There are over a hundred sculptures spread out over 500 acres. In the summer of 2022, Storm King Art Center also invested a staggering $45 million in redesigning the center. It is a massively popular day trip from New York, partly for its art and partly because it makes such a lovely outdoor day out.

The outdoor art gallery is an hour and a half’s drive from the city center or just under two hours on public transport. You’ll have some great views along the way, though, and will drive along the banks of the Hudson River and between Harriman and Bear Mountain State Park.

23. South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain Reservation is one of the best New York City day trips. The 2,000-acre public park is the ultimate day out, featuring a sports arena, zoo, and hiking trails galore. The reservation is the perfect place to spend a day – especially in spring or summer on a warm, sunny day. You can pack a picnic, walk the grounds, and even go pond fishing. And on a hot day, there’s a pavilion with ceiling fans to retreat to.

The reservation is a 45-minute drive from NYC or around an hour on public transport. It is massively popular amongst New Yorkers and much less touristy than any parks in the city center. A win, win.

• 45 minutes from New York City

24. New Paltz

Has Woodstock made you intrigued to visit the Hudson Valley’s small towns? Well, New Paltz should be another on your list. The college town is an hour and a half’s drive from NYC and is set in the dramatic countryside right on the curve of the Wallkill River. The town has that wholesome atmosphere, with farmers’ markets and romantic hiking trails that whisk you straight from the town center. It makes a great day out, and New Paltz is easily one of the most popular places to visit in the beautiful Hudson Valley.

Make sure to stop by Historic Huguenot Street, a National Historic Landmark District consisting of seven stone houses built by Huguenot settlers in the 18th century. The street usually has immersive history demonstrations in full flow. It is a fascinating spot for history lovers and those interested in early American history. And when you are satisfied with a history fix, we suggest embarking on the Ridge-to-Ridge Trail for beautiful views.

25. Washington D.C.

Last but not least, here’s our most ambitious day trip from NYC. Washington, D.C., is the U.S. capital city and one of the most famed cities on Earth. Washington is known for its history, memorials, and museums. For any serious sightseers, it is a fantastic add-on to your NYC itinerary. You could visit the Lincoln Memorial, United States Capitol, National Gallery of Art, or Library of Congress. Read more: 12 Must-See Washington DC Monuments and Memorials in Photos

For full disclosure, getting to Washington, D.C., is tiring, and you should allow for an eight-hour round trip of driving. If you can rotate drivers, you can manage this on a self-guided day trip, but if not, we recommend booking a guided tour. These tours include transfers from NYC . You can kick back and just enjoy the ride.

• Three hours and 45 minutes from New York City

To Conclude

Are you excited to try out these day trips from NYC? You should be. New York City might be an action-packed, exciting place, but these destinations also deserve a place on your itinerary. Besides, it always feels more adventurous to stray out of the city center.

If you’ve got any more questions about visiting New York, you can check out our guides on  where to stay  and a special  New York Christmas guide . Have a fantastic trip.

Plan Your Next Trip to NYC With These Resources

• 41 Awesome Things to Do in New York City
• 25 Best Things to Do in Brooklyn, New York
• Where to Stay in New York City – Best Hotels and Top Places For All Budgets
• 30 Best New York Views – Where to See the Manhattan Skyline
• Things to do in Lake Placid, New York
• New York City Itinerary – 5 Days in New York
• Best Museums in NYC

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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2 thoughts on “25 Best Day trips from NYC In 2024”

Come up to New Haven for some pizza!

Wonderful article! Highly appreciate for putting in so much effort. This place will surely be on my upcoming bucket list. Waiting to have the best experience!

15 Best Day Trips from New York City

Everyone knows New York City is the greatest city in the world, but for those of us that live here, it’s a city that also needs to be escaped from. The noise, grit, crowds, and constant movement make the city exhausting after a while, and New Yorkers need their getaways just like anyone else. Thankfully, NYC is in a prime position on the East Coast, nestled among forests, mountains, beaches, farms, and other towns and smaller cities in the surrounding areas. Leaving NYC for the calmer locales of Upstate New York, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, or Pennsylvania is super easy—in fact, you can do it in just a day. These short trips can satisfy the desires of nature lovers, art fans, culture hounds, foodies, and more.

Storm King Art Center

Wendy Stone/Getty Images

Just an hour’s drive north from Manhattan, Storm King Art Center has 500 acres dotted with large-scale, modern sculptural art. The massive sculpture park makes an ideal daylong getaway, where visitors can spend hours strolling among the art. The site’s rolling hills, lush forests, gurgling streams, and verdant meadows are home to sculptures by artists including Andy Goldsworthy, Louise Bourgeois, Sol LeWitt, and Alexander Calder. Some works are even built directly into the landscape, like Maya Lin’s undulating “Wavefield.” After you’ve had your art fill, head to the nearby town of Cornwall and have a late lunch on Main Street at Farmhouse Market or Prima Pizza .

Bear Mountain State Park

 ctraixaxu/Getty Images

Bear Mountain State Park is jam-packed with activities, and it’s just an hour away from Midtown Manhattan, so it’s perfect for a day trip adventure, whether you’re going solo, with friends, or your family. Most people know that the park has miles of hiking trails , but if you’re not a hiker, or are looking to try something new there, there is so much more to discover. You can check out the charming and educational Trailside Museums and Zoo , walk across the picturesque Bear Mountain Bridge for stunning views, take a ride on the carousel, rent paddleboats on Hessian Lake, and go swimming in the pool in summer or ice-skating in winter. And when you’re ready to refuel, have brunch or lunch at Restaurant 1915 , or for grab-and-go items, try the Hiker’s Cafe , both at the Bear Mountain Inn.

Beacon, New York

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

New York’s Hudson Valley is bursting with charming Main Streets, nature havens, and fascinating museums, but rarely does one town offer all three—and at less than two hours away by train (or 1.5 hours by car) from Manhattan. A stop on the Hudson Line of MetroNorth , Beacon makes a textbook-perfect day trip. When you get off the train, cross the street from the station to the waterfront and take in the mighty Hudson River from the Pete and Toshi Seeger Riverfront Park or Long Dock Park. Then, head to the Dia: Beacon , a lauded modern art museum that focuses on large-scale installations and features the work of artists like Richard Serra, Robert Smithson, Dan Flavin, and Agnes Martin. For lunch, cafes like Beacon Falls Café , Beacon Pantry , and Café Amarcord are all good options. Once you’re energized, head to Beacon Mountain (there’s a shuttle bus from the train station if you don’t have a car) for a moderate hike with great views. If you’re not ready to go back to the city just yet, have a cocktail at Wonderbar and catch an indie flick at the restored Beacon Theater, now called Story Screen , next door.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

Denis Tangney, Jr/Getty Images

While music fans might have Asbury Park on their list already, the beach town makes a great day trip for any New Yorker. Just about an hour away from the city, Asbury Park has a bustling boardwalk, great restaurants, a nice beach , and of course, a lively music scene. A visit to the iconic Stone Pony —where Bruce Springsteen got his start—is a must, and other venues like Wonder Bar , the Saint , and the historic Convention Hall and Paramount Theatre on the iconic boardwalk are worthy stops for listening to live music after a day in the sun. Have lunch at Talula’s or Pop’s Garage and grab a beer at Asbury Festhalle & Biergarten .

Rhinebeck, New York

John W. Ferguson/Getty Images

In many ways, Dutchess County’s Rhinebeck is the quintessential Hudson Valley town , and it’s one of the region’s best destinations for a day of antique and independent boutique shopping. Plus, at about 100 miles north of Times Square, it’s an easy drive or train ride away on Amtrak. We suggest strolling along Market and Montgomery Streets, the center of downtown. Pop into apparel and accessory shops like Darryl’s and Haldora for stylish togs and Pegasus Footwear and Rhinebeck Department Store for rugged outdoor brands like Pendleton and Woolrich. Hammertown is an award-winning home goods store, while Land of Oz is a wonderful toy store. Book lovers will adore Oblong Books & Music , and Rhinebeck Antique Emporium and Beekman Arms Antique Market are a must for anyone who enjoys searching for vintage treasures. Recharge at Bread Alone , a locally favorite bakery and café, or make an appointment at Chinese Healing Arts Center or Breathe Studio: Barre & Pilates . To truly relax, visit the full-service spa—complete with saunas and whirlpools—at Mirbeau Inn & Spa . The dining scene in Rhinebeck is also excellent: The Amsterdam , Bia , Terrapin Restaurant , or Willow by Charlie Palmer are all great options.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Alejandro Sanchez Fuentes/Getty Images

You might be wondering why you’d want to leave one city for another, but Philadelphia is a fun-filled excursion just an hour-and-a-half away from NYC that has a lot to offer. History buffs will obsess over sites like the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall (where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed), the Benjamin Franklin Museum , the Betsy Ross House, the Museum of the American Revolution , and the Mother Bethel AME Church , the mother church of the African American denomination that is built on the oldest parcel of land continuously owned by African Americans (the basement was a stop on the Underground Railroad). Art lovers will be happy at museums like the Barnes Foundation , Philadelphia Museum of Art , and the Rodin Museum , while one-of-a-kind institutions like the Mutter Museum of the College of Physicians of Philadelphia , the Mummers Museum , and the Please Touch Museum ensure everyone will be entertained. Foodies will feel right at home as well; a must-visit is the Reading Terminal Market , which has been around since 1892. Inside, sample a roast pork sandwich at DiNic’s, fresh-made doughnuts at Beiler’s, Peking suck at Sang Kee, a pastrami sandwich at Hershel’s, and ice cream at Bassetts. If you don’t eat meat, not to worry: Vedge is easily one of the city’s best restaurants, and it just so happens to be vegan . Other restaurants to check out include Zahav , K’Far Café , Federal Donuts , Baology , Rangoon , and Vernick Food & Drink . And after all that running around, if you need a quiet moment of calm, the serene Shofuso Japanese House and Garden should do the trick.

Fire Island, New York

 June Jacobsen/Getty Images

While New York City is blessed with many beaches close by, Fire Island tends to feel like a real getaway—after all, you can take a ferry ride , and cars aren’t allowed to drive across the island (bring a bicycle if you want to move around). Just off the southern shore of Long Island , about an hour and a half from Brooklyn, the barrier beach island is home to  Robert Moses State Park on the west end and Smith Point County Park on the east end. Plop yourself on one of the beaches like Kismet, Saltaire, Ocean Beach, or Cherry Grove, walk along the boardwalk, play golf , or visit the Fire Island Lighthouse .

Cold Spring, New York

neoellis/Getty Images

Clocking in at around an hour outside the city, Cold Spring is a favorite day excursion from the city, thanks to its accessibility by train, great hiking and kayaking, and charming Main Street. Hikers make their way to Breakneck Ridge for sweeping Hudson Valley views. And while the name shouldn’t scare you, this hike does feature a steep scramble, so be prepared. Otherwise, get your steps in on Main Street, stopping at Instagram-worthy shops like Poor George , Old Souls , Cold Spring General Store , and Cold Spring Apothecary . If you prefer to be on the water, rent a kayak or canoe and head out on the Hudson River to visit the historic and impressive Bannerman Castle on its own island. When hunger strikes, hit up Hudson Hil’s or Cold Spring Depot for classic pub fare.

New Canaan, Connecticut

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New Canaan is known as the home of Philip Johnson’s Glass House , an architectural masterpiece, and it’s a worthy outing all on its own—and less than an hour from Manhattan by car or train. Thankfully, New Canaan has a few other attractions, making a daylong excursion ideal. There’s the beautifully landscaped Waveny Park and its mansion, the galleries at Silvermine Arts Center , and the nonprofit nature and art center Grace Farms , with its stunning undulating edifice created by Japanese architecture firm SANAA, tea pavilion, amphitheater, and immaculate grounds. Downtown New Canaan has a handful of charming shops to pop into, like Elm Street Books and jewelry store Wave , and you can get your caffeine fix at Zumbach’s Gourmet Coffee . Rosie is the spot for brunch, and Solé is great for dinner.

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow, New York

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These twin Westchester towns are just 25 miles from NYC, ideal for a day trip, and MetroNorth will take you there if you don’t have a car. In Tarrytown, you can visit Sunnyside , the restored home of Washington Irving, the author of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," and the 67-acre estate of Lyndhurst Mansion dating back to 1838. You can then take the train one more stop to Sleepy Hollow Philipse Manor Station and visit the famed Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, which houses the remains of Irving along with Andrew Carnegie, Walter Chrysler, Elizabeth Arden, and Leona Helmsley. The circa-1838 Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse is worth a stop, and Philipsburg Manor is devoted to showcasing the African slave experience at this mill from 1750. Check the schedule and stop by the TaSH Farmers Market if it's open, or make a reservation at Top Chef Dale Talde’s Goosefeather in an 1840s era mansion. Not surprisingly, Sleepy Hollow is a popular place to visit on or around Halloween , so if you can make it to the town’s famous Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze event, which runs from early September through Halloween night, you’re in for a spooky treat. And keep your eyes peeled for the Headless Horseman; he tends to just show up out of nowhere.

Princeton, New Jersey

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Home to the famed university, the town of Princeton is an idyllic New Jersey destination a little over an hour from New York. Strolling the gorgeous Princeton University campus is a worthy pursuit, especially for Gothic and Georgian architecture fans. You can sign up for a guided tour , or just explore on your own. Make a day of it by exploring the area around Palmer Square, where there’s a mix of chains and independent restaurants and shops, like home goods store Homestead and the longtime favorite of music fans, Princeton Record Exchange . If school is in session, follow students to PJ’s Pancake House or Hoagie Heaven for casual eats, or nab some wood-fired pizza at Nomad . Save room for the inventive ice cream flavors at the Bent Spoon . In the fall, make a pit stop at Terhune Orchards for pick-your-own apples and more.

Kingston, New York

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A Catskills darling, Kingston , about 90 miles north of the city, makes for a lovely excursion from the city for a day. New York State ’s first capital city, Kingston suffered a decline for many years until the last decade or so, when it experienced a renaissance. Now, it’s home to a scenic waterfront, historic districts filled with charming shops and small museums, and a booming restaurant scene. It’s also larger than many of the Catskill and Hudson Valley towns, making it more than possible to amuse yourself for the day and then some. If you have little ones, take the historic trolley along the water and visit the Hudson River Maritime Museum . Shoppers will enjoy boutiques like Clove & Creek , Oak 42 , Anderst , Milne , and Blue Cashew , and foodies should make reservations at Zak Pelaccio’s Restaurant Kinsley or Lis Bar . The city is also near some beloved Catskills hikes like Millbrook Mountain, Minnewaska State Park, and Kaaterskill Falls.

North Fork, New York

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New York is blessed with several wine regions, and Long Island ’s North Fork is a great one to explore on a daylong winery tour.  Wineries like the 35-year-old family-owned Pindar Vineyards , the 38-year-old  Bedell Cellars , and  McCall Wines , which debuted in 2007, should all be on the list, and  Kontokosta Winery ,  Macari Vineyards , and  Lenz Winery are also worthy stops. If you don’t have a designated driver, tours like North Fork Wine Tours will drive you and your crew from vineyard to vineyard. Stop for a bite at Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market , Cliff’s Elbow Room , or North Fork Table & Inn and take a walk on the beach between sips. In the summer, make time for a stroll through the fields at the Lavender by the Bay .

Mountain Creek, New Jersey

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A skiing day trip is perfect for a winter day, and many mountains are easily accessible from the city. While Hunter Mountain is often overcrowded, there are plenty of other nearby resorts to choose from. Located in Vernon Township, Mountain Creek is the closest ski resort to NYC. With a 1,040-foot vertical rise, 167 skiable acres across four peaks, and eight lifts to ferry skiers up the mountain, Mountain Creek will easily occupy any skier for a day. And while there may not always be a ton of natural snowfall, the resort makes its own snow all season, ensuring good conditions. Not a skier? There’s also snow tubing and fat biking. Oh, and don’t count out the summer for a visit: warm weather transforms the mountain into a bike park, and there’s also golf and ropes courses, zip-lining, and a mountain coaster, plus there’s a nearby water park .

New Hope, Pennsylvania

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Known as an enclave for hippies and artists, the eclectic town of New Hope situated along the Delaware River in Bucks County has a funky Main Street with shops like the Soap Opera Company , Farley’s Bookshop , and Mystickal Times . Or, explore the Bucks County Wine Trail , taking sips at nearby Buckingham Valley and Wycombe Valley. More of a beer person? Check out Triumph Brewing Company in town. Soak up the alcohol with a bite at the historic Salt House , vegan spot Sprig & Vine , or the new Odette’s at the River House, then catch a show at the iconic Bucks County Playhouse before heading home.

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One Week in New York State: The Ultimate Itinerary

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5 Best Day Trips from New York City

By Alex Van Buren , Andrea Whittle , and Devra Ferst

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

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

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

HUDSON VALLEY, NEW YORK

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

The Patio Grill at The Roundhouse Arrow

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

Dogwood Arrow

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

Hudson River Expeditions Arrow

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

Steph Koyfman

Shannon McMahon

Charlie Hobbs

Cold Spring Antiques Center Arrow

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

Storm King Art Center Arrow

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

Backbar Arrow

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

Pig Hill Inn Arrow

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

Brunette Arrow

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

Moo Moo's Creamery Arrow

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

GREENPORT, LONG ISLAND

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

Aldo's Arrow

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

Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market Arrow

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

1943 Pizza Bar Arrow

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

Croteaux Vineyards Arrow

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

White Flower Farmhouse Arrow

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

Brix & Rye Arrow

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

American Beech Hotel Arrow

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

Eagle's Neck Paddling Arrow

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

North Ferry Company Arrow

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

NORTH ADAMS, MASSACHUSETTS

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

MASS MoCA Arrow

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

The Porches Inn at MASS MoCA Arrow

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

Cascade Waterfall Arrow

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

Pedrin's Dairy Bar Arrow

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

Williams College Museum of Art Arrow

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

Tourists Arrow

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

The Distillery at Greylock WORKS Arrow

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

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

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

Zahav Arrow

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

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

Reading Terminal Market Arrow

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

Philadelphia Museum of Art Arrow

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

Briar Vintage Arrow

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

Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia at Comcast Center Arrow

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

La Colombe Arrow

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

Cadence Arrow

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

Jim's South Street Arrow

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

Independence National Historic Park Arrow

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

THE HAMPTONS, NEW YORK

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

Carissa's The Bakery Arrow

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

Breadzilla Arrow

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

Pollock-Krasner House Arrow

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

Round Swamp Farm Arrow

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

Hampton Chutney Co. Arrow

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

Bridgehampton Candy Kitchen Arrow

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

La Fondita Arrow

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

Hither Hills State Park Arrow

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

Baron's Cove Arrow

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

Parrish Art Museum Arrow

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

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15 Best Day Trips From New York City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ascen Aynat

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The best train trips from NYC for a scenic rail adventure

New York City is just a few hours from historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

As much as the U.S. is heavily car-dependent and the American past time is a good ol’ summer  road trip along historic routes across the states, the Northeast is definitely spoiled with accessible rail connections making it easy for rail aficionados, business travelers, tourists and anyone to sojourn between cities and small towns for quick day trips and weekend getaways in any season. New York City, especially, is within 10 hours of some historic cities and beautiful communities accessed via train—and with breathtaking views along the way!

Even though the region doesn’t have sweeping scenic train rides such as the California Zephyr going into the Rocky Mountains or the Coast Starlight route with Cascade Mountains and Pacific Coast views, the New York/Northeast route can still boast of historic landmarks and ruins along the Hudson Valley, sparkling waters of the Connecticut coastline in summer, and truly spectacular fall foliage in autumn.

Check out these direct train routes that’ll offer up scenic views right outside your window.

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Best scenic rail trips from NYC

1.  Enjoy Hudson River and mountainous views to Pittsfield, MA

Use that PTO and hop onto the Berkshire Flyer’s seasonal weekend service route for the long but scenic train ride to Pittsfield—the Heart of the Berkshires . Gaze out the window at the lush Hudson River valley green and its historic ruins as the four-hour train rolls through Poughkeepsie where the Gilded Age Vanderbilt Mansion is a few miles north of the station. The Berkshires is famous for a thriving ecosystem of woodlands, wetlands, and mountains , all of which attract outdoorsy travelers. Pack a bike or hiking boots to enjoy the scenic landscape in Pittsfield, which is visible as the train rolls into town.

What train route? Amtrak Berkshire Flyer How long is the train ride? 4 hours 5 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the Berkshire Mountains, Hudson River, picturesque towns and Catskills

2.  Take in coastal scenes to Providence, RI for America’s smallest state

America’s smallest state is a direct train ride for city adventures any day of the week as the train station is a walking distance to downtown Providence. This 3.5-hour route hugs the Connecticut coast and riders can see the water and boats bobbing and sailing on it at several points along the train ride. Heading southbound towards New York City? Sit on the left side of the train for even more spectacular coastal views.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 3.5 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Sparkling summer coastal views of sailboats and harbors

3.  See skyline and river views of Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia is a hop, skip, and a jump away from NYC (just an hour and a half) and while the views tend to be industrial, graffiti-decorated, or bland as you pass through New Jersey and Delaware, the left side of the train is where you’ll see the Philadelphia skyline and Boathouse Row along the Schuylkill River before arrival at Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? 1 hour 30 minutes from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Nighttime views of Boathouse Row and the Philadelphia skyline, rowers on the river during the day and industrial architectural remnants (for those with a niche interest)

4.  Cruise through the lush Hudson Valley heading to Albany, NY

The NYC to Albany is one of the few train rides in the Northeast with lovely views of verdant foliage and wine country of the Hudson Valley region heading north three hours to Albany. On the return journey from Albany to NYC, sit on the right side for breathtaking views of the Hudson River, the Catskill Mountains, and the Palisades as you approach Penn Station. The Palisades are especially scenic during fall foliage when leaves turn hues of yellow and orange.

What train route? Amtrak Adirondack, Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall. Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson Valley, Hudson Valley towns and villages, Palisades, and Catskills

5.  Discover castle ruins and lighthouse views on the way to Hudson, NY

Fondly known as “ Upstate New York’s Downtown , ” Hudson is a favorite among NYC residents for day trips and weekend getaways—it’s just two hours away! The Hudson Valley is one of the most scenic routes in New York State so keep your eyes peeled for the ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island, Bear Mountain, and the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse . In addition, the train speeds by lush forests and marsh that are green in summer but explode with hues of yellow and orange for fall foliage.

What train route? Amtrak Maple Leaf, Adirondack and Ethan Allen Express lines How long is the train ride?  2 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of the historic Hudson-Athens lighthouse , Bannerman Castle ruins, West Point, Bear Mountain and lush foliage along the Hudson River.

6.  Ride the Connecticut coast to Mystic for nautical history

Interested in nautical and whaling history but also want a small-town charm with a beautiful downtown? Mystic is it. Enroute to Mystic, swap highway gridlock for stress-free scenic train travel passing through attractive small towns with steeples, historic architecture, and verdant foliage. In New York, the three-hour route goes by the Hudson River where the Hudson-Athens lighthouse is visible if seated at the right side of the train heading southbound into New York City.

Closer to Mystic, the train passes right through Sixpenny Island and also hugs the south end of the nearby Haley Farm State Park . The route also goes by the Mystic Seaport harbor area where historic ships like the Charles Morgan whaling ship and other vessels are visible from the train.

What train route? Maple Leaf, Adirondack, and Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 3 hours from New York Moynihan Hall.  Why is this route nice? Views of Hudson-Athens lighthouse in NY, historic ships in Mystic Seaport harbor, small New England towns and scenic state parks in Connecticut.

7.  See Pennsylvania Dutch Country on the way to Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh is a long but direct train ride from NYC. Still, the window scenes as the nine-hour train speeds by make up for this distance. Look out for the historic Horseshoe Curve near Altoona—known as one of the eight engineering marvels of the world—and gaze at the farmlands and barn houses of Pennsylvania Dutch Country. The train rounds the Horseshoe Curve once each way daily. Also visible is Pittsburgh’s Golden Triangle, where the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio Rivers converge; and the Allegheny Mountains are also visible from the train.

What train route? Amtrak Pennsylvanian How long is the train ride? Approx. 9 hours from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of Horseshoe Curve as an engineering marvel, Allegheny Mountain Range and the Golden Triangle river convergence point.

8.  Spot the Hudson River and Lake Champlain toward Burlington, VT

If you’re into slow travel, this route is just for you, so board with refreshments and entertainment for the ride to the Green Mountain State. Eight hours northbound to Burlington, sit on the left side for Hudson River views (beautiful in all seasons) and scenic glimpses of New England communities with their architecture and steeples. In Vermont, the views that matter are those of Lake Champlain south of Burlington, and this view would be on the left side of the train northbound. Heading north to Burlington, the Vermont portion will be dark except on long summer days.

What train route? Ethan Allen Express How long is the train ride? Approx. 8 hours from New York’s Moynihan Hall Why is this route nice? Lake Champlain and scenic Hudson River Valley views

9.  Marvel at Chesapeake Bay views toward Baltimore, MD

Baltimore doesn’t spring to mind when listing scenic train rides but here’s a tip: southbound from NYC, sit on the left side of the train for Chesapeake Bay views. During the fall, you might even get to see the fiery red, yellow, and orange leaves of the Bay’s fall foliage on the way. This nearly three-hour route might also terminate in Washington D.C. and for brief scenic views en route D.C., sit on the left side for where the train crosses the Susquehanna River.

What train route? Amtrak Northeast Regional and Amtrak Acela How long is the train ride? Approx. 2 hours 50 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Chesapeake Bay and Baltimore skyline views

10.  See ships and harbors on the coast heading to Boston, MA

The NYC to Boston route is another route in the Northeast with lovely views so ease the four-and-a-half-hourlong ride to Boston by identifying and admiring scenic views from the train window. From NYC, sit on the right side as the train hugs the Connecticut coastline for views of ships, harbors, and bridges. 

What train route? Amtrak Acela and Amtrak Northeast Regional How long is the train ride? Approx. 4 hours 30 minutes from New York Why is this route nice? Scenes of the Connecticut coastline

11.  Peep the Palisades cliffs in Poughkeepsie, NY

The best views here are during fall foliage season where this two-hour train hugs the edge of the Hudson River allowing magnificent views of the Palisades with their bright fall colors. Get your walking shoes on for more bursts of color as you walk or bike Walkway Over the Hudson , an elevated pedestrian bridge beginning at the Poughkeepsie station, for photography-worthy scenes and discovering communities along the way. 

What train route? MTA Metro-North from Grand Central Terminal How long is the train ride? 2 hours  Why is this route nice? Colorful views of the Palisades cliffs and other foliage 

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24 Best NYC City Tours for an Unforgettable Exploration of the Big Apple

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It’s America’s tourism posterchild — and the best NYC city tours manage to communicate the raw, unique essence that has made New York the city of all cities.

With so many things to do in NYC , you could spend weeks here and barely scratch the surface. That’s exactly why first-time travelers opt for guided city tours; in the space of just a few hours, you’re treated to a highlight reel of New York City – its art, history, food and architecture.

See my top 3 New York City tours below, or keep reading for a thorough breakdown of the tours and their offerings.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• NYC city tours

1 – Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 6011 reviews )

“Nice quick ride to the Statue of Liberty and back. Good guide and good music and good boat.” Jeffrey, Getyourguide

Once a gift from France, the Statue of Liberty has become an iconic symbol of freedom and democracy. On this hour-long sightseeing cruise , you’ll sail past Lady Liberty herself, getting an up-close look at her stunning features and learning all about her transformation into a national monument.

You’ll also cruise past Ellis Island, the gateway for over 12 million immigrants, with plenty of stories to be told by the Statue Walks LLC team. Besides being blessed with a unique perspective of these two historical landmarks, you’ll also be treated to wonderful views of the Lower Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. What’s not to love?

Summary of tour:

• 1-hour cruise
• See Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Ellis Island, and Freedom Tower
• Cash bar on board
• check this offer

No visit to NYC is complete without the Statue of Liberty. So you might as well see her on a wonderful boat ride! The crew are extremely friendly (sometimes they let you steer the boat), the boat has restrooms and a bar, and views across the harbor are spectacular. Given the reasonable price, this gets out tick of approval.

Read more: Best boat tours in NYC

2 – New York City: Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 2493 reviews )

“It was very cool not having to worry about transportation all day and just being able to get on and off pretty much anywhere and at any time. This way you can get a good overview and check out the most famous sights. It was really fun!” Sam, Getyourguide

The big, double-decker buses are touristy for good reason: they hit up almost all of the best tourist attractions in New York City , with the bonus of being able to hop on and off whenever and wherever you like.

The Big Bus Tours sightseeing adventure is all about convenience and flexibility. Whether you opt for the Downtown Loop (which passes places like Battery Park, SoHo , Chelsea and Greenwich ), the Uptown Loop (Grand Central Terminal, Central Park and more), or both, you’ll see a huge range of notable landmarks.

All buses come with an audioguide to give you the rundown about each attraction too. What’s not to love about a classic NYC bus tour ?

• Hop on and off at your leisure
• Choose between 2 different routes
• Choose between a 1 or 2-day ticket
• book this tour
• Prices vary depending on which route you choose and any extra add-ons you wish to purchase.
• The classic 1-day Downtown Loop ticket is the cheapest, at US$54 for adults and US$45 for kids (3-12).
• The 1-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo costs US$72 for adults and US$63 for kids.
• The 2-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo ticket costs US$90 for adults and US$81 for kids.
• Add-on: A 1-day Downtown and Uptown loops combo plus a cruise around Liberty Island costs US$100 for adults and US$90 for kids.
• Add-on: A 1-day Downtown and Uptown loop combo plus entry to the Empire State Building AND a ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands (museum access not included) costs US$130 for adults and US$120 for kids.

A fantastic way to get your bearings! These are more affordable than small group tours AND you can also see the sights at your own pace. You won’t get the personalized feeling of a private tour, but you can spend more time at the places that interest you most.

We recommend the Uptown+Downtown loops at the beginning of your NYC trip.

3 – 20-Min Ultimate NYC Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2591 reviews )

“This was a brilliant experience, a unique birds eye view of the Big Apple.” Theodore, Headout

Short, sweet, and serving up incredible views of America’s posterchild, helicopter rides invite you to ditch the foot traffic and see the entire Manhattan Island from a whole new perspective.

Taking off from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport, the chopper soars high above famous sights like the Statue of Liberty , Central Park , the Brooklyn Bridge , and the Palisade Cliffs.

But it’s not just sightseeing; with a professional pilot doubling as your VIP tour guide, you’ll learn all about the city’s major landmarks too.

Being such a quick experience, you’ll have stacks of time to do a few of the other top things to do in Manhattan afterward.

• Spend 20 minutes in the air
• Aerial view of over 12 attractions
• Shared helicopter

A bucket list activity worth splurging on, this exciting helicopter tour is worth every penny. The views are second to none, and the insightful pilot comments make this experience even more special. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned NYC veteran, seeing the Big Apple from above is worth doing once in everyone’s life. 10/10.

4 – Guided Bus and Walking Tour with Staten Island Ferry

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 152 reviews )

“We saw and learned so much. Hit so many iconic sights and loved the walk in Central Park.” Marcia, GetYourGuide

See all the best New York City has to offer on this whirlwind excursion by USA Guided Tours that will see you covering both land and sea. Tour some of the most iconic locations in Manhattan including the Rockefeller Center and the Flatiron District . Then, board the Staten Island Ferry for the best perspective of the Statue of Liberty and the New York skyline.

On your return, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the 9/11 Memorial Pools by bus to pay your respects. End off your experience with a sightseeing walk down glittering Fifth Avenue. All along the way during your tour, you’ll benefit from the insightful commentary of an expert guide who will open your eyes to a different side of NYC.

• check offer

If you’re short on time and want to squeeze in as many iconic New York City as possible into a day, this tour is a great option! Your guides are experts in all things NYC – history, architecture and local lore – so you’ll learn plenty as you cover most of Manhattan.

5 – Boroughs of NYC: Harlem, Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn & Coney Island

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1378 reviews )

“As a first timer to New York, this is a great tour to give you a high-level understanding of 4 of the 5 boroughs.” Jack, Viator

With skyscrapers aplenty, Manhattan steals the spotlight. But in reality, it’s only one of five boroughs that make up New York City, and each boasts its own energy, landmarks and fantastic attractions.

On the Amigo Tours USA Boroughs Tour , you’ll get to discover Harlem , the birthplace of jazz and hip hop, Queens , home to the most diverse population in the world, the Bronx , renowned for its eccentric street art and Brooklyn , the NYC hipster capital.

Throw in an optional stop at historic Coney Island (widely considered to be one of the best things to do in Long Island ) and you’ve got yourself an all-encompassing, highly educational day out!

• After meeting your group near Grand Central Terminal, your local guide will first take you up to Harlem, where you'll see the iconic Apollo Theater. Next stop is the Bronx, where you'll pass by the Big Pun Mural and the Bronx–Whitestone Bridge.
• You'll then head toward Queens where you'll have some time to explore the Flushing Meadows Corona Park before crossing the Kosciuszko Bridge to Brooklyn. After wandering around Crown Heights, Williamsburg and DUMBO, you'll then either cross the Brooklyn Bridge and finish your tour or head to Coney Island.
• The tour's finishing point is up to you: choose from Coney Island, DUMBO, or Grand Central Terminal.

Very few tours cover as much ground as this one. With stops in all 4 boroughs, you’ll get a real taste of the distinctly different vibes that, when put together, make up the NYC charm. The guides are professional and humorous too.

If you want to learn about the history and culture of each neighborhood, plus see the sights, we’d certainly recommend this tour.

6 – Private Custom New York City Tour by SUV

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 387 reviews )

“Absolutely great experience, my kids will remember it for ever. Even the car was perfect Thank you Ryan!!!” Manuel, Viator

All about that VIP feeling , this tour ditches the touristy big buses and cookie-cutter itineraries; you choose the route and the duration, and then your very own tour guide will make sure that your day is as fun and insightful as possible — that’s the beauty of New York City private tours .

Of course, you’re more than welcome to leave your destiny in the guide’s hands, who’ll happily whisk you to iconic landmarks and hidden gems while sharing insights into each neighborhood.

Whether you want to spend your day shopping at designer boutiques, indulging in delicious food, or snapping selfies at famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Times Square, Best New York Tours ‘ SUV adventure has got you covered.

If you want to craft your own experience, the private SUV tour is ideal. Bernice, Sheldon, Ryan and the team are so incredibly caring and helpful. It’s amazing how much sightseeing and storytelling they can squeeze into half a day.

The downside is the price; however, if you’re traveling with a large group it becomes much more reasonable. A fantastic option!

7 – SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Walking Tour in New York

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1592 reviews )

” would highly recommend this tour to anyone interested in the history of these 3 very unique neighborhoods!” Judith, Viator

A huge part of Manhattan’s charm comes from the dynamic subcultures scattered throughout its streets, and this walking tour shows off three of the most unique enclaves one after the other.

Led by knowledgeable guides from ExperienceFirst , you’ll wander through SoHo , a neighborhood renowned for its high fashion and trendy stores, before heading to Little Italy where you can indulge in authentic Italian cuisine and learn about the area’s 19th-century architecture as well as the decades of gang violence.

On top of Soho and Little Italy , throw in Chinatown , where buzzing markets and bustling streets will immerse you in Eastern culture and tradition, and you’ve got yourself quite the whirlwind tour!

Affordable, enjoyable, and an excellent way to dive into the NYC cultural melting pot, this walking tour is a must-do. Mindy, Andrea, Esa, Tim and the ExperienceFirst crew know so much about SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown – not just their modern sides, but also about their rich histories. We would certainly recommend this activity.

Read more: Best walking tours in NYC

8 – Private New York Walking Tour with Photoshoot

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 28 reviews )

“I had the best time with photographer Mike, he made cool shots for me in spite of the heavy weather, and Sasha made amazing photo works. It became one of my wonderful experiences in New York City.” Toshifumi, Viator

If crowded walking tours and cliché big buses give you the ick, a private tour is the perfect antidote. Sure, you’ll get to witness quintessential landmarks, but you’ll do it in style, with your very own passionate guide.

The other standout part of this tour is the photos . Forget about selfies all day; your private guide doubles as a professional photographer . You’ll end up with around 30-90 high-quality snaps when it’s all said and done!

The best part? The tour is completely customizable based on what YOU want to see. Pick locations such as the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, Times Square and Grand Central to be your incredible backdrop.

• A 1-hour photo shoot costs $350 per group and includes 30 photos at 1 location.
• A 2-hour photo shoot costs $595 per group and includes 60 photos at 2 locations.
• A 3-hour photo shoot costs $700 per group and includes 90 photos at 3 locations.

It may seem a little touristy to have your own photographer, but make no mistake, this tour is one of the best for tourists wanting to capture their time in NYC! For first-timers, it’s a fantastic way to get your bearings and to also memorialize your journey.

9 – NYC TV & Movie Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1053 reviews )

“Loved this tour! Comfortable ride, awesome sights, and Benji was so knowledgeable and kind! I would highly recommend this tour!” Heather, Viator

Forget about Tinseltown because when it comes to movie and TV filming backdrops, New York City is the real star.

From the iconic Central Park Home Alone bridge to the Empire State Building (King Kong, When Harry Met Sally, and dozens more), and countless locales featured in titles like Seinfeld, Friends, and SATC (see #20), this movie tour lets you relive all your favorite cinematic moments.

Led by an On Location Tours actor-guide, you’ll get to drive around Midtown and Central Park, checking off places like the Wollman Rink, Fifth Avenue, the Friends Building , and even the GhostBusters Firestation . All the while, you’ll hear stories and fun facts about the movie sets, characters and actors. How good!

Cinephiles, this one is a non-negotiable afternoon activity! Benji, Chris and the team have phenomenal energy and are undisputed experts in all things NYC film and TV.

Besides snapping selfies at dozens of famous movie locations, you’ll also hear all the insider gossip about your favorite shows. Highly entertaining and certainly worth doing!

Read more: Best TV & movie locations tours in New York City

10 – New York City: Highlights of Central Park Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 414 reviews )

“We stopped at the sights and were given some time to take a better look around. It was definitely worth it and you get to see the park well at a fast pace.” Ricardo, Getyourguide

If you’re on the hunt for family things to do in New York City with kids , you can never go wrong with Central Park . Spread across 843 acres, this slice of world-famous greenery acts as a much-needed breath of fresh air from the loud, crowded city streets.

Due to its size, you’d need at least an entire day to cross off all the main things to do in Central Park . Instead, why not speed things up with Unlimited Biking ‘s Central Park Bike Tour ?

Led by local New Yorkers, you’ll pedal through the park, stopping at locations like Strawberry Fields , the Bethesda Terrace , and The Central Park Zoo , as well as lesser-known gems like the Alice in Wonderland statue and Belvedere Castle .

Central Park is world-famous, but it’s hard to cover all of it on foot, especially in just a few hours. That’s why Unlimited Biking’s tour is a great option. On top of the amazing sightseeing, the tour guides are also super knowledgeable about the history and fun facts of the park. We recommend this tour, especially for families.

Read more: Best bike tours in NYC

11 – Broadway Theaters and Times Square with a Theater Professional

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 435 reviews )

“Loved learning about the history of the theater district! Our guide was very informative! I will look at the theaters in a new light now.” Jennifer, Viator

NYC’s beating heart is its Theatre District – from Times Square to the dozens of Broadway theaters , the energy and excitement is palpable year-round.

Led by the theater-obsessed ExperienceFirst crew, this walking tour shows off the history, the culture, and the behind-the-scenes magic of Broadway . From the first show in 1866 to today’s record-breaking hits, you’ll learn about the evolution and impact of Broadway on New York City – and hear all about the best Broadway shows to see right now as well.

Tours usually run at 4pm, leaving you with plenty of time to catch a show afterwards (one of the quintessential things to do in New York City at night ) or check off some of the other things to do in Times Square .

Keith, Chris, Tim and the ExperienceFirst crew make sure this tour is well worth your time. For budding performers and theater enthusiasts alike, it’s one of the best city tours in NYC.

Times Square can get very chaotic, so having a local by your side to navigate the crowds is a huge plus. If you don’t mind the hustle and bustle, it’s a great option.

Read more: List of Broadway theaters – which one is best?

12 – Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 702 reviews )

“This was a great way to look at all of New York famous buildings and learn about their history! I would go again!” Jessica, Viator

All about luxury, sophistication and (as the name suggests) architecture, this NYC cruise is definitely one for those who like to travel in style. Once on board the 1920s-style yacht, you’ll spend almost 3 hours cruising around the Hudson and East Rivers while taking in stunning views of staple Manhattan landmarks .

While you’ll pass by the Freedom Tower, the Chrysler Building , the Brooklyn Bridge , Roosevelt Island and more, this isn’t your run-of-the-mill sightseeing boat cruise. The expert American Institute of Architects guide waxes commentary about the city’s rich history, making it a thorough architectural tour .

With an architectural landscape that changes daily, if there were ever a city to study the different styles of buildings, bridges and monuments, it’s this one.

While more expensive than regular cruises, the architecture yacht tour dives into themes of which other tours barely scratch the surface. The crew are experts, and the boat itself is stunning. Highly recommended!

13 – New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 331 reviews )

“My friends and I loved the tour, it was very interesting! I definitely have some new facts to share with my family 🙂 The tour guide was amazing and was able to answer all of my dumb questions about the city!” Caroline, Viator

Modern-day Greenwich is known as the home of Manhattan counterculture; a hipster, groovy district with art galleries and trendy bars around every corner. But dig beneath the glamorous surface and you’ll discover that this neighborhood also has a long history of hauntings, crime and paranormal activity.

And there’s no better group to share the spine-tingling stories than Top Dog Tours . Taking a moonlit walking tour through the Village’s winding streets, you’ll hear tales of murder, mystery, and mayhem as you visit haunted places like Washington Square Park, the Jefferson Market Library, and the Cherry Lane Theatre, to name a few.

A refreshing alternative to the traditional sightseeing tour, this bone-chilling Village walkthrough truly brings the spooky history of Greenwich to life. Luke, Katie and Rory are expert storytellers, keeping the tour engaging from start to end. If you want to venture off the beaten path, we highly recommend this tour.

14 – Private Harlem Soul Food and Jazz Evening Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4/5 ( 127 reviews )

“Extremely knowledgeable regarding Harlem; very pleasant personality; enjoyed the music and atmosphere; food excellent!” Melody, Viator

Undeniably one of Manhattan’s most fascinating neighborhoods, Harlem is renowned for its rich history as the birthplace of jazz , hip hop and everyone’s favorite soul food. On this private evening tour (run by the great team at Harlem Spirituals ), you’ll get to wander through the lively Harlem streets, popping into jazz clubs , passing by well-known landmarks and, of course, tasting some traditional soul food dishes at the one and only Sylvia’s restaurant.

All the while, you’ll learn all about how this dynamic enclave rose to fame in the 1920s, becoming a hub for African-American culture. Being a private tour, you can guarantee a more personalized, intimate experience too.

If you prefer budget-friendly experiences, look elsewhere. If you don’t mind spending a few extra bucks for a personalized tour that covers everything from history and culture to music and food, then this Harlem walkthrough is unbeatable. The live show at the Cotton Club, in particular, is top-notch. Worth doing!

15 – NYC: 3-Hour Gossip Girl Sites Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 321 reviews )

“It was a very nice experience for my family to be able to enjoy this experience and see serious places that I liked so much.” Cesar, Getyourguide

Calling all Gossip Girl fans ! Get ready to step into the glamorous world of Manhattan’s elite, following in the footsteps of Blair and Serena as you make your way to a stack of the 40+ NYC locations (!) featured in the hit TV series.

From Grand Central Terminal to the beautiful Upper East Side, you’ll be whisked away to the Vera Wang boutique where Blair tried on her wedding gown, the candy store where Dan helped Vanessa shop, Chuck Bass’ new business, and a whole lot more.

And since the Gossip Girl tour guides are usually diehard fans of the show, you’ll hear all sorts of insider trivia along the way.

This tour isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a fan of the show, it’s as bucket list-worthy as they come. Abby and co. are nice, engaging and funny (doubling as photographers) and the sites are all really interesting. The macaroons at Ladurée are a bonus! The verdict? Worth doing for diehard fans.

Read more: Gossip Girl tours in New York – everything you should know

16 – The Original Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture, Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 737 reviews )

“This was a great tour of Brooklyn. We learnt so much about the culture and history from our amazing tour guide Laurie. And to top it all off, the food stops were absolutely delicious!” Ian, Viator

Move over, Manhattan! NYC’s most hipster borough is a smorgasbord of cultural and culinary delights waiting to be discovered. Renowned as one of the best NYC food tours , this half-day foodie adventure (led by the experts at New York Fun Tours ), takes you on a lip-smacking journey through the premier Brooklyn eateries.

Sure to tantalize the tastebuds, you’ll get to dig into shawarma , pierogies , pizza , cannolis , and French bonbons . But it’s not exclusively about eating. You’ll get your fair share of sightseeing too, passing by the likes of the Brooklyn Bridge (one of the top things to do in Brooklyn ), Prospect Park, DUMBO, and Williamsburg.

The Best of Brooklyn excursion is a non-stop highlight reel of the city’s biggest, most dynamic borough. Regardless of where you go on any given day, expect exceptional food tastings from all kinds of international cuisines. For the amount of food you get, the price is very reasonable too. We consider this a must-do tour for foodies!

Read more: Best food tours in NYC

17 – Free Walking Tour: VIP Financial District Stroll

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 1008 reviews )

“Omar was a great guide. It was a great introduction to the city. I will highly recommend this tour to everyone visiting NYC for the first time.” Sameer, Guruwalk

Where modern skyscrapers contrast centuries-old churches and taverns; where the oldest immigration hub meets Wall Street ; where the sobering 9/11 Memorial stands, the Financial District is so much more than finance.

This tour highlights the district’s most iconic landmarks — think the New York Stock Exchange , Trinity Church, Federal Hall and the Freedom Tower . Like you would on Wall Street tours , you’ll wander through the story-filled streets, hearing all about the city’s rich history, its status as the nation’s economic heart, and the impact of major events like the 9/11.

The best part? It’s a totally free walking tour, making the Guru Walk one of the best cheap things to do in New York City .

• free walking tours in NYC

Informative, entertaining, and totally free! What’s not to love? Besides being experts in local history and culture, Omar, William and the Guru Walk team are also happy to give recommendations on what to do later on. If you’re on a budget, we couldn’t speak any higher of this tour.

18 – High Line and Chelsea Small Group Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 699 reviews )

“We loved the entire tour. Especially the stories about the meatpacking district were fascinating. Great mixture of History, current facts and humour.” Clara, Viator

A former elevated railway line transformed into a modern urban park , the High Line has rapidly risen the ranks to become one of the Big Apple’s must-visit attractions.

The ExperienceFirst small group tour reveals the history and architecture of the area, showing off the hidden gems in gentrified Chelsea and the Meatpacking District too (where great food, quaint bars and designer boutiques are aplenty).

Come hungry; a highlight of the tour is a walkthrough of the buzzing Chelsea Market – a hundred-year-old former factory that’s now home to more than 50 shops and eateries.

Based on the flawless 5-star ratings, the people have voted this one of the best NYC city tours.

Chelsea and the Meatpacking District have so much character! Jon, Ben, Evan, Maki and the whole ExperienceFirst team share great stories as you stroll through the charming streets.

You’ll learn about the economy, the architecture, the history and the culture all in one — we’d definitely suggest giving this tour a go!

19  – New York City: The Sopranos Filming Locations Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 146 reviews )

“Great tour which took us to most of the sopranos regular filming sights! Would recommend to get better insight and little places you wouldn’t think of as we had considered hiring a car and doing ourselves but never would have spotted so much.” Katie, Viator

Walk in the shadows of Tony, Jennifer, Christopher and the rest of the Soprano gang on this fascinating Sopranos tour that takes you to all of their famous filming locations .

With the On Location Tours experts (read: diehard Soprano fans) leading the way, you’ll see fan-favorite spots like the Bada Bing, Pizzaland, Fr. Phil’s Parish, and no less than 40 more TV-featured haunts. Along the way, expect to hear all kinds of behind-the-scenes stories about the making of this beloved show.

If you love the Sopranos, this is easily one of the best NYC city tours.

If you’re a Sopranos diehard, this tour is truly unmissable. You squeeze heaps into 4 hours but everything runs seamlessly. The major haunts are well-documented, but this tour shows off stacks of little places you wouldn’t even think of visiting (or know where to find).

20 – Sex and the City Hotspots Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 1119 reviews )

“Seeing all the places that were important, the tour covered all the seasons. The behind-the-scenes stories were very entertaining. Having a Cosmopolitan at Steve and Aiden’s bar was the best.” Joni, Viator

Whether you’re a Samantha, Carrie, Miranda, or Charlotte, this Sex and the City tour screams out “join me!” for any true fan.

From Steve and Aidan’s Scout Bar (Onieal’s) where the girls have gossiped to cupcake stores they’ve shopped at, even Carrie’s West Village brownstone, you’ll get to see over 40 locations featured in the beloved show.

The On Location Tours team aren’t just chaperones either; they’re SATC fanatics who have carefully crafted this tour to be the ultimate experience for diehard fans – and they’ll share countless behind-the-scenes tidbits along the way.

This is a fantastic way to see lovely parts of Manhattan and discover locations from the beloved series at the same time. Expect loads of interesting trivia, plenty of jokes, and a few delightful SATC surprises. The highlight? Having a Cosmopolitan at Steve and Aiden’s bar, of course! Definitely a must if you love the show❤️

Read more: Sex and the City tours in New York – which one is the best?

21 – Brooklyn: Bushwick Street Art Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 264 reviews )

“Great tour of Brooklyn street art. The guide was superb and introduced us to the origin of graffiti in this legendary district of New York. My teenage son loved doing this activity.” Kia, Getyourguide

While Manhattan sits in the spotlight, its East River neighbor flies under the radar. With world-class eateries, stunning waterfront views and a hipster art scene that’s as colorful as its street murals, Brooklyn deserves your daytime attention.

On this street art tour of Bushwick , you’ll uncover the secrets of what’s dubbed the “largest outdoor street art gallery” in NYC , checkout out graffiti (by Fumero, Giz, Dasic and Danielle Mastrion), colorful murals and thought-provoking installations that liven up the area.

You’ll get to meet a real graffiti artist as well, and the Wandering Barman coffee is the cherry on top.

If you like to venture off the beaten path and discover the cultural gems of a city, then this Bushwick street art tour is a great shout.

You’ll learn about the history of graffiti art in New York and don’t have to walk too much to do so! Audrey and the team are knowledgeable and enthusiastic with a sense of humor too. Affordable and worthwhile!

22 – New York City: The Ride Interactive Bus Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 ( 210 reviews )

“The Ride experience totally made our trip to NYC. The reviews and photos on line do not do it true justice. (…) I would recommend this to all ages and guarantee a great time. I would do it again tomorrow.” Clare, Getyourguide

Part city tour, part Broadway musical, and collectively a whole lot of fun!

Combining sightseeing with music and theater, The Ride is an interactive 75-minute bus tour that whisks you through the characteristic streets of Manhattan while entertaining and educating you with live performances .

Unlike typical bus tours, you actually face sideways , with the streets becoming the stage. That means one moment you’ll be serenaded in front of Grand Central, and the next you could be seeing a live ballet show at Bryant Park or a freestyle rap performance at Columbus Circle!

With 3 rows of stadium-style seats, unlike your typical Broadway theater, there’s no bad seat in the house on The Ride .

Embodying the essence of New York, The Ride is one of the best ways to experience the city’s deep-rooted musical theater culture. It combines the best of both worlds – Broadway talent and landmark sightseeing – to show off the city in a way you’ve never seen before.

It’s one of our top picks for NYC city tours!

23 – NYC: Speakeasy Drinks and Prohibition History Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 297 reviews )

“The speakeasy tour was a highlight of our trip for sure! Our guide Jack was awesome and had great drink recommendations. The three bars we went to had great atmosphere and delicious drinks and weren’t places we would have found on our own. Highly recommend!” Brianne, Getyourguide

These days, NYC is chock-full of craft breweries and lavish cocktail bars. But it wasn’t always this way. In the 1920s, Prohibition forced New Yorkers to drink in hiding.

On this NiteTables Experiences walk down memory lane, you’ll travel back in time to experience the roaring ’20s , popping into 3 historical watering holes around Midtown Manhattan.

Unlike most pub crawls in New York City , this one’s heavily educational. Cocktails in hand, you’ll learn about infamous bootleggers, notorious gangsters and the women of the Gilded Age. Overall, not only is it one of the best New York City night tours , it’s one of the best NYC speakeasy tours , period.

The perfect combination of fun and educational, this thirst-quenching tour makes a point to venture away from the cliché tourist spots.

Since drinks aren’t included you have the freedom to order whatever libations take your fancy too. Thanks to Jack, Ariel and the guides being so welcoming and insightful, this tour is an excellent option.

24 – Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 486 reviews )

“After Dyker Heights we got to stop at a great photo spot for the Brooklyn bridge perfect quick pit stop to get some photos before heading back. Highly recommend and would do it again!” Nicole, Viator

When the annual festive season rolls around, the Big Apple lights up like no other city. But there’s one quiet Brooklyn neighborhood that puts the rest to shame: Dyker Heights .

Sure to ignite the holiday cheer , the Tour America excursion whisks you to the most elaborately decorated streets in Dyker Heights and Bay Ridge, passing by hundreds of animatronic and inflatable toy soldiers, Santa Clauses, elves and reindeer.

But you’re not just stuck on the bus – on foot , you’ll wander through the neighborhood and get to witness the dazzling, often music-synced houses up close.

The view of the lit-up Brooklyn Bridge at tour’s end is the cherry on top of this Christmas lights tour .

A lovely way to embrace the holiday season magic, this tour shows off a typically unseen part of NYC. Luiz, Alan and the team make it fun, entertaining and insightful, and the lights – well, they’re on another level! We rate this as one of the best NYC Christmas tours.

How to book city tours in NYC?

Don’t wait until you’re in NYC to book your tour. To secure the best price and your preferred timeslot, you need to book in advance.

But rather than spending hours scouring different tour companies, make your life easier by using an all-in-one search engine like TourScanner.

With TourScanner, you can compare all of the tours, prices, reviews and discounts to ensure you’re scoring the best possible deal.

• compare city tours in NYC

COVID-19 UPDATE:  We are following current health and safety guidelines and have changed usage guidelines for some of our preserves in New York. 

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Five Nature Day Trips From NYC

A guide to serene forests and breathtaking views

April 24, 2024

Neversink Preserve Vegetation at Neversink Preserve in the Catskills region of New York. © Carl Heiman II

Are you longing for a break from the hustle and bustle of New York City? Good news! Nature escapes are closer than you think! While NYC offers its own green spaces, countless adventures are awaiting just a short trip away. From serene forests to breathtaking views, there's a nature preserve perfect for your day trip. Whether you're a hiker, bird-watcher, or simply a nature enthusiast, these top 5 nature preserves are sure to delight and rejuvenate your spirit. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the great outdoors just a stone's throw from the city!

The Eugene and Agnes Meyer Nature Preserve

Be on the lookout for rare plants and how glaciers influenced topography throughout the preserve.  

Two distinct parcels with exceptional rock formations and vernal pools make up this preserve. In the rugged east parcel, deciduous forest, hemlock stands and mountain laurel thickets crown rocky outcrops, and steep cliffs rim Byram Lake Reservoir. In the western parcel, native grasses and wildflowers blanket meadows that provide excellent habitat for mammals, birds and insects. A number of reptile and amphibian species thrive in the streams and red maple swamps throughout both parcels.

GETTING HERE

From the entrance kiosk, a pair of color-coded trails, complete with distance markers and directional arrows, leads you along the edge of the gorge to numerous landmarks.  

There are separate entrances for these two parcels:

• The Western Parcel trailhead is located on Sarles Street in Mount Kisco; this offers a mowed grass trail that winds through the open meadows, with a spur trail that dips into the forest; this option is less intensive.
• The Eastern Parcel trailhead is located on Oregon Road in Armonk; this offers a more forested trail system with more ups and downs. The Orange Trail is stunning, with many wildflowers in bloom and a path along the creek. Folks could then loop back using the Red or Blue trail. (Note: the directional signage on the Eastern side is not yet complete, so please keep a map with you to double-check at intersections and keep track of where you are)

Parking : Eastern and western parcel lots for 3 cars each

Public Transport: Amtrak to Croton-Harmon station, then a 30-minute cab to preserve or Metro North to Mount Kisco station, then a 15-minute cab to preserve

Cell Service: Spotty  

Mianus River Gorge Preserve

Highlights  .

Look for bobcats, long tailed weasels, wood turtles, eastern gray treefrogs, northern dusky salamanders, white-tailed deer and eastern turkeys.

Protected in 1955, this site is the birthplace of The Nature Conservancy as it was our first land conservation project. Here, the wild Mianus River rushes through a steep gorge on its way to Long Island Sound. On its cool, moist banks, a magnificent cathedral of 350-year-old hemlocks stand more than 100 feet tall, and beyond the river, lush fern gullies surround the lovely Havemeyer Falls. At the Hobby Hill Quarry in the middle of the preserve, 18th-century mining left a gorgeous rock mosaic of mica, feldspar and quartz.

The Nature Conservancy holds title to 555 acres here, while the remaining 183 acres is owned by the Mianus River Gorge Preserve who now manages the entire preserve.

From the entrance kiosk, look for a pair of color-coded trails with distance markers and directional arrows that will lead you along the edge of the gorge to numerous landmarks. There are bathrooms available for use. 

Parking: Abundant parking is avialable at trailhead

Public Transport : Amtrak to Croton-Harmon station, then a 30-minute cab to preserve or Metro North to Mount Kisco station, then a 15-minute cab to preserve. 

Cell Service:  Spotty

Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary

Observe a variety of hawks, falcons and other raptors during the autumn hawk migration. Other animals here include red fox, coyote, great-horned owls, barred owls and screech owls. The summer brings songbirds such as wood thrush, warblers and scarlet tanagers.

There are six forest communities on the preserve: oak-dominant mixed hardwood, oak-hickory, mixed mesophytic, hemlock-mixed hardwood, hemlock dominant and wetland swamp forest, as well as areas of white pine and Norway spruce plantations.

This land’s rugged outcrops and boulder-strewn hills provide a solid foundation for deciduous forests, flowing streams and swamps teeming with flora and fauna. The Nature Conservancy is helping protect and conserve this natural landscape by studying deer's impact on the forests and managing invasive species to encourage forest regeneration.

Explore all that Arthur W. Butler Memorial Sanctuary has to offer in our trail map . There are five main trails and three connector trails totaling 6.5 miles.  

The Red Loop, counterclockwise, is a moderately strenuous hike of just under 3 miles with some varying ups and downs. But feel free to cobble together your own adventure by using the map. We advise taking a photo of the map at the trailhead.

Portapotty will be available for us for the season starting May 20.

Parking:  Parking for 10 vehicles. Overflow parking allowed along Lake Bridge

Public Transport:  Amtrak to Croton-Harmon station, then a 30-minute cab to preserve or Metro North to Mount Kisco station, then a 15-minute cab to preserve

Cell Service : Spotty

Uplands Farm Sanctuary

True to its name, Uplands Farm Sanctuary in Cold Spring Harbor retains the appearance of an old dairy farm, complete with a silo and open meadows that were once cattle pastures. The preserve offers visitors the chance to enjoy a variety of natural habitats and native species. Nearly 2.5 miles of marked trail meanders from bird and butterfly meadows, through deciduous forests, and into a white pine-shaded ravine.

The vast wildflower meadows provide important habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals, including milkweed, goldenrod, and dozens of butterfly species. Bird species associated with this type of habitat are Eastern bluebird, tree swallow, and blue-winged warbler. 

NEW! ADA (wheelchair-accessible) trail now open! 

If you’re interested in longer hikes, the West Loop Trail at Uplands Farm connects to the 20-mile Nassau-Suffolk Trail, part of the Long Island Greenbelt where one can hike from Cold Spring Harbor south to Massapequa. Bathrooms are available for use. 

Parking:  Parking for 10 vehicles

Public Transport:  LIRR Greenlawn Train Station then cab to preserve.

Cell Service:  Good

Butler-Huntington Woods

Butler-Huntington Woods supports many species of birds, snakes and small mammals, including  Eastern towhees, wood peewees, scarlet tanagers and wood thrushes in spring and summer. In winter and fall, keep your eye out for white-throated sparrows and juncos on the ground and chickadees and titmice up in the trees.

The wooded hills and ravines here are part of the Harbor Hill moraine, the hilly ridge that marks the place where the ice sheets paused during the last Ice Age, depositing pulverized materials. The swales between the high ridges cut a natural trail system several miles long through the woodlands. The watershed formed by the glacier-scoured hills and swales once fed water to Mill Creek, which powered a gristmill and flowed on to the Nissequogue River.

Butler-Huntington's entrance is located on Fifty Acre Road, just south of Branglebrink Road, with a dirt parking area. The loop trail is 1.6 miles.

Parking:  Parking for 5 vehicles with 1-2 spaces for roadside parking

Public Transport:  LIRR to St. James Train Station, then cab to preserve

Cell Service: Spotty

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10 Best Boat Tours In NYC To Book Right Now

Checking out New York City via the water is the best way to see skyline views, and here's the best tours to book!

With spring officially here and summer looming soon, it’s almost time to get out on NYC waters and explore the city! New York’s two main rivers, the Hudson River and East River are chalk full of incredible boat tours that are simply amazing. The cruises allow you to check out the skyline from every angle, and some even have live entertainment, special meals, and one-of-a-kind events.

If you’re looking for your next adventure to explore NYC the best way—via boat—here’s the best NYC boat tours to book right now.

1. Circle Line’s “Best of NYC” Cruise

This Circle Line boat tour separates itself in a class of it’s own…and there’s a reason it’s number 1 on our list! The 2 hour and 30 minute cruise goes completely around   the island of Manhattan , offering unobstructed views of over 130 of the city’s most iconic landmarks including the  Manhattan skyline ,  Little Island ,  Hudson Yards ,  One World Trade Center ,  Brooklyn Bridge ,  Yankee Stadium , and more! Their boats are state-of-the-art and climate controlled, and they have some of the most knowledgable tour guides in the whole city!

🛥️ Book your tickets to this boat tour here!

2. City Cruises’ Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise

How about a cruise of NYC and a delicious brunch ?! This 2.5 hour cruise (brought to you by City Cruises) includes a chef-prepared 3-course plated brunch on the water with bottomless mimosas , panoramic views of the Empire State Building and Statue of Liberty , a live DJ , and so much more! It’s truly an experience that will impress a date, your family, or even your work crew!

3. Liberty Cruise’s Statue of Liberty Tour

The Statue of Liberty is undoubtedly one of our favorite attractions in NYC, and this boat tour will bring you up close and personal with Lady Liberty! With both standard and premium tour options, the 75 minute adventure departs from Pier 36 multiple times per day. If you’re looking for a boat tour with the best view of the Statue of Liberty , go for this option.

4. Manhattan by Sail’s Clipper City Ride

Fancy riding on a boat cruise around NYC in… a sailboat ?! The Clipper City is the largest tall ship in New York City at 158 feet long and has the capacity to bring 134 passengers on a ride! The nostalgic-feeling ride departs from Pier 17 downtown, and takes passengers all around the New York Harbor. They also have special cruises too like sunset jazz cruises, golden hour cocktail sails, wine tasting cruises, and more .

5. Circle Line’s The Beast Speedboat Ride

This Circle Line cruise is for the adrenaline junkies…and it’s a 30 minute speedboat ride through NYC waters like never before. Starting at Pier 83 on the Upper West Side, “The Beast” rips through NYC waters with all kinds of twists, turns, and splashes along the way . The jet-powered thrill ride can get up to 45 mph, and will take you on a whipping and winding tour all the way out to the Statue of Liberty! “The Beast” opens for the 2024 season on May 4th !

6. Circle Line’s Landmarks Cruise

Check off all the landmarks from your bucketlist with this no frills boat tour that starts and ends at Pier 83 in midtown Manhattan. The 90 minute cruise will bring you down the west side, with peeks of Hudson Yards  and  Little Island before wrapping around downtown and heading up the East River. Amenities include an incredible outdoor viewing deck, an onboard café, free Wifi, and more!

7. New York Media Boat’s Private Boat Tour

Live out your luxury dreams with a private boat tour of NYC with New York Media Boat! Their private boat charters come at a steep price, but there’s nothing quite like taking in the 360° NYC views with a hand-selected crew. Rides are typically 60 minutes long and group sizes can range upwards to 12 passengers. Prices for private boat tours range from $550-$1100/ hour based on group size.

8. New York Water Taxi Cruises

New York Water Taxi provides a “hop on, hop off”-type of service that makes it easy for you to sightsee all different parts of NYC as efficiently as possible! Their daily ferry service connects Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Jersey City all together, making it the perfect way to explore the city…and also catch some waterfront views too!

9. Staten Island Ferry

We’re going to let you on our secret little FREE boat tour of NYC …the Staten Island Ferry! The fare-less journey is operated by the New York City Department of Transportation, and runs a 5.2 mile route through the New York Harbor between Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes . Whether you’re looking to explore a different borough for a day, or want to ride for free on the water, it’s our favorite hidden gem!

10. NYC Ferry

Similarly to the Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry acts almost as subway system via the water! There are 6 routes, as well as one seasonal route, connecting 25 ferry piers across all five boroughs . The fare is $4 per ride and it’s the perfect way to have a do-your-own-boat-tour, especially during the summer! They have an open air deck, a bar on deck, and ports all over the city!

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10 Best Eco-Tours You Can Take In New York City

• Choose eco-friendly transportation: Use the highly efficient and cheap mass transit system of subways and buses in NYC to reduce carbon footprint and contribute to sustainable tourism.
• Explore NYC's top attractions sustainably: Opt for these eco-friendly NYC tours that have a minimal impact on the environment and showcase the city's history, parks, and cultural landmarks. Walk, cycle, or take an eco sailboat tour to experience the Big Apple while being environmentally conscious.
• Embrace sustainable food options: Join a walking food tour that showcases quintessential New York street food while walking through the city's streets instead of using vehicles. By supporting local eateries and choosing sustainable transportation, tourists can contribute to a greener New York City.

Eco-tourism and eco-travel in New York City? Yes, the world's busiest cosmopolitan does a lot to make it an environmentally friendly destination. The best example of this is its highly useful and used mass transit system of subway and bus services. Citizens and visitors are highly encouraged to use this super efficient and cheap mode of transportation within the city.

Sustainable tourism is conscientious travel, and this means being careful with the environment and respecting the community. Visitors can contribute towards this effort by choosing mass transit over taxis, staying at eco-friendly New York City hotels or homestays that make an effort to be “green,” shopping at a locally owned store, and eating at a diner or coffee shop instead of at a branded fast-food chain. Plus, New York City recycles its bottles and cans (including bottled water), and travelers can look for containers for recyclables before discarding litter.

Outside of the everyday small things that people can do to be eco-friendly during an NYC vacation, they can also be kind to the environment while sightseeing and having fun in the Big Apple. Tourists have an incredible amount of interesting things to do in NYC, and the city offers them lots of eco-friendly options while doing so - in the form of eco-friendly NYC tours. Here is a list of some of the best eco-tours in New York City that let travelers explore its top sights and sounds while ensuring a low-impact, low carbon footprint at the same time.

The following eco-friendly tours in New York City were selected based on their minimal impact on the environment, low carbon footprint, and appreciation and value of nature. From walking and cycling tours to excursions to botanical gardens and farms that highlight nature's importance, these environmentally friendly NYC tours are worth it for eco-conscious travelers.

Historic NYC Downtown Walking Tour

Downtown New York City! No other historical neighborhood can lay claim to so much impact or influence in the world over a relatively brief period in global events, and so a tour like this one is an essential item on the bucket list of things to do in NYC for anyone.

The tour retraces the evolution of Lower Manhattan, the historic role of New York Harbor, and the covert activities of the Revolutionary War. While on the tour, visitors will explore key historical locations like Wall Street, Stone Street Historic District, Trinity Church, Federal Hall, Hamilton's grave site, etc., and discover how Lower Manhattan has transformed since 9/11.

Downtown Manhattan is one of the most densely populated places in New York City, and a walking tour is a refreshing and most eco-friendly way of seeing this iconic city.

• Price: $50 per person
• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Meeting Point: Upon reservation, travelers will receive a confirmation with maps and the best mode of transportation to get to the meeting point
• Reservation: Click here for reservations

Related: Just 25 Beautiful Photos Of New York City's Skyline

Central Park Walking Tour

Central Park is certainly one of the most popular places in New York City. They say even a few days walking through Central Park (which is free to visit) will not be enough to cover its many hidden corners and stories. The only way to see the park to justify the park's true potential is by walking, and this expert-led Central Park Walking Tour offers views and entrance to areas unavailable to even cyclists.

It is a relaxing stroll of a little over two hours covering the history, structures, plants, animals, and movies filmed in the park, told in a way both entertaining for adults and children. Visitors are expected to have a moderate fitness level of being able to walk for 2 hours at a comfortable pace. Being a rather large park, it's best to follow a guide who knows it very well to have a richer experience.

• Price: $45 per person
• Duration: 2 hours
• Meeting Point: CENTRALPARKHORSES, 7TH AVE &, Central Park S, New York, NY 10019

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers.

New York Botanical Garden Visit

Located in the Bronx, the 250-acre New York Botanical Garden is nature's paradise in every season of the year. With 50 breathtaking gardens, indoor rain forests and deserts, 50 acres of native forest, a river, waterfalls, and rolling green hills, the Garden is a blessing for the environment and a must-see destination for NYC visitors.

The garden is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays. Most of the Garden consists of outdoor spaces and are open in all weather conditions. Visitors are advised to dress for the weather and exploration. Refreshments are available at the Pine Tree Café within the property.

• Price: $35 per adult, $31 per student/senior (65+), $15 per child (2-12), Free (children under 2, members)
• Duration: All day pass
• Location: 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, NY 10458

Related: The New York Botanical Gardens Are Home To NYC's Old Growth Forests, But That's Not The Only Reason To Visit

New York City Skyline Night Sailboat Tour

Seeing New York City's lights at night is a spectacle that just cannot be missed. City Lights Sail on America 2.0 is a breathtaking eco-friendly cruise through the waters of New York Harbor, sailing past One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty, all lit up brilliantly to offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience that begs to be repeated, and more than just once.

This incredible eco-friendly ride is one of the best places to view the New York City skyline . It's better enjoyed with a romantic companion or a close group of friends who want to have a quiet, relaxed evening and watch the most admired skyline in the world. Each seat allows a complimentary beer, wine, champagne, or soda, and additional beverages are available for purchase by credit card.

• Price: $76 per person
• Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

Extreme high winds, fog, torrential rain, extremely low temperatures, etc., may contribute to a cancelation decision.

New York Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

New York City isn't just a bustling financial capital. With its rich history of culture and cuisine, it is also a food capital of the world, with delicacies from around the globe in fine dining restaurants as well as finger-licking street food.

This tour allows visitors an opportunity to contribute towards a greener New York by walking the vehicle-riddled streets of Manhattan instead of using a cab or bus, all the while sampling several quintessential New York street food favorites like classic bagels, New York-style pizza and gourmet doughnuts. The local tour guide takes visitors to some of New York’s best under-the-radar eateries.

• Price: $85 per person
• Duration: 2.5 - 3.5 hours
• Meeting Point: IFC Center, 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014

This tour requires a minimum number of 12 travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, guests will be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.

Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour

Nothing could define an eco-friendly activity more than people using their energy while exploring nature. This is a small-group guided bike tour along the Hudson River in New York City on one of the most popular places to ride, offering beautiful water views, fresh unpolluted air, and a dedicated bike path that is closed to car traffic.

The use of a bicycle and a helmet is included in the Hudson River Greenway Bike Tour, so visitors have one less thing to be concerned about. Just land up there with comfortable clothing and shoes (suggested shorts or track pants with sneakers and a T-shirt) and get ready to spend some time refreshing yourself from the city's bustle. The tour prefers small groups of no more than 15 to allow a more personal experience for the group.

• Price: $53 per person
• Duration: 30 - 45 minutes
• Meeting Point: Pier 84 at Hudson River Park, 555 12th Ave, New York, NY 10036

Infant seats are available on request.

A Day In Brooklyn Bike Tour

Brooklyn is one of New York City's coolest neighborhoods. This bicycle tour through Brooklyn explores tough-to-reach areas that most tourists often miss. The eco-friendly ride also goes through popular landmarks and hidden gems, like areas under the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, including breweries and eateries to stop and refuel.

Photo stops and complimentary tastings along the way make this a popular choice for active New York City visitors, especially those who prefer environment-friendly activities that are fun, informative, and don't leave a carbon footprint.

• Price: $118 per person
• Duration: 5 hours
• Meeting Point: Under the Manhattan Bridge - Brooklyn, NY 11205. (This location is a Lock away SeflStorage. Guests are requested to wait at the front gate for a tour guide to meet them here)

This tour will have a maximum of 12 travelers. The minimum age for travelers is 13 years old.

Prospect Park Walking Tour

Prospect Park is a 585-acre park located in the center of Brooklyn. On this tour, the experienced guide helps the visitors discover hidden treasures, natural wonders, and little-known tales of Prospect Park .

While taking in the beauty of this iconic park’s woodlands, waterways, wildlife, and landmarks, visitors also get to explore layers of history, flora, and the architecture of the surroundings. The tour gives an insight into how the park supports environmental conservation, historic preservation, and recreational and cultural access for locals and visitors from around the world.

• Price: $25 per person (children under 5 are free)
• Meeting Point: Brooklyn Public Library Central Library, 10 Grand Army Plaza

Related: The Ultimate Eco-Travel Checklist: 10 Things To Be Aware Of When Traveling

Farm.One Classic Tasting Tour

Farm.One’s indoor hydroponic farm uses LED lighting, hydroponics, and technology to grow hundreds of culinary plants with no pesticides or chemicals and up to 90% less water than a traditional farm. The tour offers visitors a chance to connect with fellow plant lovers while experiencing new flavors and culinary plants in a sensory experience not easily found anywhere else in New York.

This 1 hour guided tour takes visitors to the grow room, display racks, and packing room. It allows guests to taste rare herbs, microgreens, and edible flowers. Each visitor gets a complimentary 0% ABV beverage crafted with Farm.One greens.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Location: 625 Bergen Street in Brooklyn, New York

Exploration Day At Randall’s Island Urban Farm

Despite its concrete density, New York City has hundreds of farms and gardens that produce fruit, vegetables, and herbs that are distributed and consumed within the city. Randall’s Island Urban Farm, set on 1 acre of land, grows hundreds of plants and teaches visitors about sustainable farming practices like pollination and composting.

The farm also has rice paddies, berry bushes, and greenhouses, all of which are open to the public on Exploration Days during weekends in the summer months. Throughout the year, the farm hosts over 200 free public events on the grounds of Randall's Island Park Alliance, including tours, waterfront activities, annual Earth Day and Harvest Festivals, and more.

• Price: Free
• Duration: Subject to individual interest
• Timing and Reservation: There are specific days when visitors can explore the farm. Please check for relevant information .

Everything to know for Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft

Rounds 2 and 3 of the 2024 nfl draft will be held friday night in detroit, by max molski • published april 26, 2024 • updated on april 26, 2024 at 1:38 pm.

One round down, six more to go.

The 2024 NFL Draft got off to a record-setting start on Thursday with six quarterbacks going in the first 12 picks and 23 offensive players taken in the first round all together. The action is just beginning, though, and the clock will resume Friday night.

The second night of the three-day event will feature Rounds 2 and 3 with 68 picks in all. When does the action start, which team will make the next selection and which top players are still on the board?

Here is everything to know for Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft:

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What time is 2024 NFL Draft Day 2?

The second night of the 2024 NFL Draft will begin in Detroit at 7 p.m. ET on Friday.

What rounds are on Day 2 of the 2024 NFL draft?

After Round 1 on Day 1, Friday’s Day 2 will include Rounds 2 and 3.

The action will conclude on Saturday with Rounds 4-7.

2024 NFL Draft Round 1 winners and losers: Falcons, QBs draw headlines

2024 NFL Draft ties record for most wide receivers drafted in first round

How to watch day 2 of the 2024 nfl draft.

Day 2 of the 2024 NFL Draft will air on ESPN, ABC and NFL Network. Viewers can stream the draft live on ESPN+ and the ESPN app.

Which team has the first pick of the second round?

The Buffalo Bills are up next after making a couple of trades on Thursday.

Buffalo moved back from No. 28 to No. 32 in a swap with the Kansas City Chiefs. It moved back once again, dropping one spot from the final pick in Round 1 (No. 32) to the first pick in Round 2 (No. 33) in a trade with the Carolina Panthers.

After the Bills, the New England Patriots (No. 34), Arizona Cardinals (No. 35) and Washington Commanders (No. 36) are next in the draft order.

Best players available

There are a number of impact defensive players, enticing wide receivers and intriguing tackles that could go early in Round 2.

Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean , Alabama cornerback Kool-Aid McKinstry and Texas A&M linebacker Edgerrin Cooper are among the best defensive players remaining. On the other side, Texas’ Adonai Mitchell, Georgia’s Ladd McConkey and Florida State’s Keon Coleman are some of the best options for teams seeking pass catchers.

Day 2 NFL draft order

33. Buffalo Bills (from CAR)

34. New England Patriots

35. Arizona Cardinals

36. Washington Commanders

37. Los Angeles Chargers

38. Tennessee Titans

39. Carolina Panthers (from NYG)

40. Washington Commanders (from CHI)

41. Green Bay Packers (from NYJ)

42. Houston Texans (from MIN)

43. Atlanta Falcons

44. Las Vegas Raiders

45. New Orleans Saints (from DEN)

46. Indianapolis Colts

47. New York Giants (from SEA)

48. Jacksonville Jaguars

49. Cincinnati Bengals

50. Philadelphia Eagles (from NO)

51. Pittsburgh Steelers

52. Los Angeles Rams

53. Philadelphia Eagles

54. Cleveland Browns

55. Miami Dolphins

56. Dallas Cowboys

57. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

58. Green Bay Packers

59. Houston Texans

60. Buffalo Bills

61. Detroit Lions

62. Baltimore Ravens

63. San Francisco 49ers

64. Kansas City Chiefs

65. Carolina Panthers

66. Arizona Cardinals

67. Washington Commanders

68. New England Patriots

69. Los Angeles Chargers

70. New York Giants

71. Arizona Cardinals (from TEN)

72. New York Jets

73. Dallas Cowboys (from MIN via DET)

74. Atlanta Falcons

75. Chicago Bears

76. Denver Broncos

77. Las Vegas Raiders

78. Washington Commanders (from SEA)

79. Atlanta Falcons (from JAX)

80. Cincinnati Bengals

81. Seattle Seahawks (from NO via DEN)

82. Indianapolis Colts

83. Los Angeles Rams

84. Pittsburgh Steelers

85. Cleveland Browns

86. Houston Texans (from PHI)

87. Dallas Cowboys

88. Green Bay Packers

89. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

90. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU)

91. Green Bay Packers (from BUF)

92. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (from DET)

93. Baltimore Ravens

94. San Francisco 49ers

95. Buffalo Bills (from KC)

96. Jacksonville Jaguars (compensatory pick)

97. Cincinnati Bengals (compensatory pick)

98. Pittsburgh Steelers (from PHI; compensatory pick)

99. Los Angeles Rams (special compensatory pick)

100. Washington Commanders (from SF; special compensatory pick)

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18 most romantic getaways in new york state.

Some of the most romantic destinations in the U.S. can be found in New York State.

Romantic Getaways in New York

Courtesy of The Otesaga Resort Hotel

From relaxing at a lake to exploring the city, New York offers plenty of options for a romantic vacation.

It's nearly impossible not to find love in a state that's served as the backdrop for so many romantic films, from "Dirty Dancing" in the Catskills to the countless classics – think "Annie Hall," "When Harry Met Sally," "You've Got Mail" – set in New York City . In popular sitcom "The Office," Pam and Jim tie the knot beneath Niagara Falls , otherwise known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World."

Even off-screen, romance abounds in New York state's top destinations , from the Finger Lakes to the Adirondacks . Though the options for a couples vacation in the Empire State may actually be endless, these are some of the best places to spend a romantic weekend (or longer) in New York – including several ideal weekend getaways from New York City .

Most Romantic Getaways in New York State

• Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa
• Mirbeau Inn & Spa
• Belhurst Castle and Winery
• The Lake House on Canandaigua

Cooperstown

• Glenmere Mansion
• Mohonk Mountain House

The Catskills

Niagara falls.

• Hutton Brickyards

New York City

• Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club
• Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Westchester County

• Whiteface Lodge
• The Sagamore Resort

Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa: Aurora

Courtesy of Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa

The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa comprises five historic inns and a cottage, each with their own distinctive vibe. The Aurora Inn (the site's original hotel), built in 1833, blends vintage furnishings with modern amenities, while the Rowland House, built in 1903, is a more eclectic option. All guest rooms are equipped with plush bathrobes; some even feature fireplaces and views of Cayuga Lake, perfect for cuddling up to admire the spectacular sunsets.

Lovebirds can enjoy complimentary coffee and homemade granola bars each morning, a glass of local wine in the evenings, and seasonal s'mores by the lakefront fire pit. You'll also find candlelit dining at the 1833 Kitchen & Bar and culinary classes just down the street from the Aurora Inn. Explore the beauty of the Finger Lakes with complimentary gear such as kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards; bicycles; telescopes for stargazing; bird-watching binoculars; and more.

The highlight of any stay at the Inns of Aurora is its spa, a 15,000-square-foot healing and wellness center less than a mile from the main hotel property. Opened in 2021, the state-of-the-art facility features 10 treatment rooms where you can enjoy a variety of signature and customized treatments, as well as a full-service salon. All spa services come with a seasonal menu of fare at the on-site cafe, six jetted spa pools with optional hydrotherapy circuits, steam rooms, a sauna and fire pits.

Address: 391 Main St., Aurora, NY 13026

Read: The Best Wellness Retreats in the U.S.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa: Skaneateles

Courtesy of Mirbeau Inn & Spa

The sweet town of Skaneateles – brimming with boutique shops, art galleries and lakefront restaurants – merits a trip to the Finger Lakes. But for the ultimate in romance, book a stay at Mirbeau Inn & Spa . This French-inspired spa resort features an elegant spa, overnight accommodations and on-site dining.

Guests have the option to stay in a traditional guest room or private cottage, all of which come with fireplaces and large bathrooms with soaking tubs. Book the Mirbeau Signature Couples Massage or Art of Living couples experience and enjoy use of a heated foot pool, steam rooms and the outdoor Aqua Terrace – which features a heated spa pool with massage jets and a waterfall, a cozy fireplace, and a private bar where you can order beverages and light fare. Afterward, enjoy lunch or dinner at The Bistro & Wine Bar, where breakfast and Sunday brunch are also served. Previous guests rave about this resort, calling it serene and magical.

Mirbeau Inn & Spa also has locations in Rhinebeck, New York (Hudson River Valley), and Plymouth, Massachusetts ( Cape Cod ).

Address: 851 W. Genesee Street Road, Skaneateles, NY 13152

Belhurst Castle and Winery: Geneva

Courtesy of Belhurst Castle and Winery

In the Finger Lakes, not only can you taste some of the world's best rieslings, but you can also spend the night in a castle – with a winery. Located on the shores of Seneca Lake, Belhurst Castle and Winery provides the perfect setting for a romantic getaway in New York.

While the property consists of three hotels, the Chambers in the Castle is the most romantic option for couples. Here, 11 Victorian-era guest rooms – each architecturally and stylistically distinct – feature antique furnishings, some with four-poster beds. There are also three cottages available to rent. Guests of the Chambers enjoy cozy fireplaces and complimentary wine from a self-serve wine spigot.

In addition to wine, Belhurst makes its own craft beer and hard cider, which patrons can enjoy at the winery tasting room or two on-site restaurants. The hotel also offers a spa and salon. The hotel reviews of Belhurst Castle are mixed, but most recent guests agree the staff is wonderful and the property is beautiful.

Address: 4069 W. Lake Road, Geneva, NY 14456

Read: The Top Finger Lakes Wineries to Visit

The Lake House on Canandaigua: Canandaigua

Courtesy of The Lake House on Canandaigua

The Lake House is the first hotel of its kind to open on Canandaigua Lake, the fourth largest of the Finger Lakes. The eco-conscious hotel uses its natural environment to provide holistic luxury to guests – from creekside barrel saunas at the on-site Willowbrook Spa to meals made with local ingredients at the Rose Tavern and Sand Bar. Of course, guests can enjoy Canandaigua Lake via kayak, stand-up paddleboard, private boat charter or even a morning coffee cruise. Light and airy guest rooms and suites feature handcarved furniture, rain showers, and plush robes and slippers; some first-floor rooms are pet-friendly.

When booking your stay, consider the "Romance at The Lake" package, which includes overnight accommodations, a spa credit and a Rose Tavern credit for a candlelit dinner, as well as wine and chocolate upon arrival.

If you can peel yourself from the property, take time to enjoy the award-winning wines and delicious food on the Canandaigua Lake Wine Trail.

Address: 770 S. Main St., Canandaigua, NY 14424

Courtesy of The Otesaga

Cooperstown is undeniably family-friendly – it's home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum and Cooperstown Dreams Park, after all. But this central New York village is also ideal for a romantic weekend getaway, whether you and your beau are baseball fans or not.

Nicknamed "America's Most Perfect Village," Cooperstown boasts plenty of boutiques, breweries and art galleries, such as the Fenimore Art Museum, located on a property once owned by James Fenimore Cooper, author of "The Last of the Mohicans." In the winter, you and your partner can also try cross-country skiing or showshoeing at Glimmerglass State Park.

The village's grand dame, The Otesaga Resort Hotel, features romantic accommodations in which couples can wake up to the sun rising over Otsego Lake. Seasonally, hotel guests can enjoy water sports on the lake and cocktails at the outdoor Fire Bar overlooking the water. The luxury resort also features the Hawkeye Spa and fine dining at 1909 on Friday evenings. Other romantic dining options in Cooperstown include Brewery Ommegang (once famous for its limited-edition "Game of Thrones"-inspired beers); Nicoletta's Italian Café; and Origins Cafe, a farm-to-table restaurant inside of a greenhouse.

Glenmere Mansion: Chester

Courtesy of Glenmere Mansion

You'd never guess that this 150-acre estate is located in the U.S., let alone that it's only around 70 miles from New York City. Constructed in 1911, the mansion – then the summer home of industrialist Robert Goet – sits in the countryside of the Hudson Valley, intended to resemble the villas of Tuscany at the time. Now a Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel , Glenmere Mansion features more than a dozen guest rooms, each one thoughtfully redesigned and unique. Most rooms have fireplaces, and many offer terraces.

Romantic retreats can (and should) include indulging at the Glenmere spa, which features a tandem suite with side-by-side soaking tubs and treatment tables. Guests of the spa enjoy pre- or post-treatment tapas and access to a variety of amenities, including an herbal steam room, dry heat sauna and a Swiss shower.

Visitors at Glenmere also have access to four fine dining venues and local activities such as historic sightseeing and wine tasting at the award-winning Brotherhood Winery, widely considered the oldest winery in the U.S. Note that Glenmere Mansion is an adults-only resort . Many previous guests praise Glenmere, noting that the food is exceptionally good.

Address: 634 Pine Hill Road, Chester, NY 10918

Mohonk Mountain House: New Paltz

Courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Perhaps the grandest of all the mansions and castles in New York (and the U.S.) is Mohonk Mountain House. Founded in 1869, the resort can be found tucked into the Hudson Valley, less than 100 miles from New York City.

Another major draw? It's one of few all-inclusive resorts in the U.S. Rates include three farm-to-table meals daily plus afternoon tea and cookies; a roster of activities, spanning water sports on Lake Mohonk to 85 scenic miles of hiking trails; wellness offerings such as a spa and fitness classes; nightly entertainment including live music and seasonal campfires; and, for families, additional kid-specific activities. Couples can choose Victorian-style guest room or suite accommodations with wood-burning fireplaces in the Mountain House, or opt to stay in the more private Grove Lodge.

While this National Historic Landmark resort is pricey, previous guests agree the cost is well worth the experience.

Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

Courtesy of Urban Cowboy Lodge

While the Catskills may always be synonymous with "Dirty Dancing," the region looks a bit different than it did when Frances "Baby" Houseman and Johnny Castle fell in love here. A boom in boutique lodging options is once again attracting travelers to an area that saw a period of decline from the 1970s until recent years.

Modern-day Babys and Johnnys can now go glamping at AutoCamp Catskills; spend the night at Wylder Windham, a full-service boutique hotel next to Windham Mountain Resort; relax in rustic-luxe rooms with soaking tubs at Urban Cowboy Lodge; tuck into cozy cabins at Eastwind Windham, which also features standalone saunas in the woods; or even spend the night at a revamped retro motel such as the Starlite Motel, with its outdoor pool. Throughout the region couples will also find breweries and cideries, U-pick farms, and (of course) the outdoor adventures that first put the Catskills on the map: skiing, hiking, biking and more.

Read: The Top Catskills Resorts

Courtesy of Niagara Falls USA

Known as the "Honeymoon Capital of the World," Niagara Falls is the original romantic getaway in New York. Couples in search of romance have been visiting the region since the 1800s, particularly after the Erie Canal opened. Connecting the Great Lakes with the Atlantic Ocean via the Hudson River, the canal – along with railroad expansions – made Niagara Falls a more accessible vacation destination for honeymooners.

Today, couples who want to experience the beauty of this natural wonder can hike or bike scenic trails at Niagara Falls State Park. You and your sweetheart can also watch a nightly illumination of the falls from a cozy blanket in the park, which is an especially colorful spectacle during Pride Month. Of course, there are plenty of guided tours in Niagara Falls , including the iconic Maid of the Mist (where Pam and Jim said their vows).

The New York side of Niagara Falls is home to a large wine region, with the Niagara Wine Trail offering more than a dozen wineries. For romantic accommodations, look to The Giacomo in the heart of downtown. Built in 1929 as the United Office Building, The Giacomo is now a luxury boutique hotel with architecture that blends art deco and Mayan Revival styles. In-room amenities include a nightly cookie delivery and panoramic views; select rooms have whirlpool baths and fireplaces. Duos can grab cocktails at the Giacomo Lounge before taking advantage of the "Sweetheart Package," complete with a bottle of Champagne, souvenir glasses, chocolate truffles and a rose petal display.

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Hutton Brickyards: Kingston

Jane Beiles | Courtesy of Hutton Brickyards

The Hudson Valley's last architecturally intact brick manufactory, Hutton Brickyards, sits on more than 70 lush acres overlooking the Hudson River. Here, lovebirds can hide out in waterfront cabins and luxurious suites designed to optimize privacy, then enjoy on-site activities such as spa treatments, yoga, sip-and-paint sessions, archery, kayaking and nature walks. The property's alfresco waterfront restaurant, The River Pavilion, serves elevated wood-fired cuisine alongside the fireplaces. Other upscale eateries as well as boutiques can be found in downtown Kingston.

Within view of the Rhinecliff Amtrak station, Hutton Brickyards is an easy trip for New Yorkers seeking some respite from the busy city. Previous guests can't say enough good things about this seemingly hidden gem, noting that the cabins are especially cozy.

Address: 200 North St., Kingston, NY 12401

Courtesy of The High Line Hotel

Reenact your favorite rom-com moment in New York City, where there are endless places to fall in love – from world-class museums and award-winning restaurants to studio tours, skyline views and some of the country's best Pride events . In the architecturally awe-inspiring Hudson Yards neighborhood, which officially opened in 2019, lovers will find shopping, dining, special events and an on-site hotel.

Speaking of hotels, while the city may never sleep, you probably will, and there's no shortage of romantic lodging options in New York City. At The James New York – NoMad , which sits just steps from the Museum of Sex, curious couples can participate in intimacy workshops that teach you and your partner how to connect breath, emotions and sensations. Another potential accommodation choice is The High Line Hotel , a Parisian-style property whose Remote View garden serves extrasensory cocktails inspired by Ingo Swann, known as a pioneering psychic. At the TWA Hotel, meanwhile, guests enjoy the glamour of 1960s travel (think "Mad Men") as you sip martinis by a rooftop pool that overlooks the runways of John F. Kennedy International Airport.

Read: The Top Statue of Liberty Cruises

Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club: Sloatsburg

Jean Francois-Jaussaud | Courtesy of Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club

A fitness-focused resort, the Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is ideal for active couples in search of a romantic weekend getaway in New York. The sprawling resort – a popular destination for weddings and other events – is surrounded by 70,000 scenic acres that afford myriad activities, including guided hiking, biking and kayaking tours. The resort also features an expansive fitness center, a variety of fitness and wellness programs, and a 75-foot outdoor swimming pool. Romantic activities include browsing the hotel's organic market and art gallery with its bookstore, cozying up by the outdoor fire pits, enjoying in-room spa treatments and dining at farm-to-table restaurants.

The four historic guesthouses are each equipped with three to five luxurious bedrooms and porches – perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee in the morning. The Farm House and Twin Peaks allow you to book only one bedroom and enjoy exclusive use of the home during your stay, making them ideal for a couples weekend.

The Valley Rock Inn & Mountain Club is about an hour's ride from New York City via the ShortLine Hudson bus from Manhattan; the resort is conveniently located next to the bus stop and train station in Sloatsburg.

Address: 27 Mill St., Sloatsburg, NY 10974

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa: Montauk

Courtesy of Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

An icon in the Hamptons, Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa is situated on Montauk's picturesque stretch of oceanfront real estate. Hotel patrons enjoy access to a private beach and ocean views from luxury rooms, suites and beachfront cottages. In-room amenities include wet bars, Nespresso machines, and cozy robes and slippers. Couples can also take in the ocean vistas hand in hand from the Firepit outdoor lounge or relax at The Beach Club. Following a $20 million renovation, the resort's Seawater Spa features new indoor-outdoor spa suites with private soaking tubs, perfect for couples.

While many local hotels close for the winter, Gurney's Montauk is open year-round, so lovebirds can visit whenever the mood strikes. Reviewers say the resort is top-notch, with some noting it's just as good – and less crowded – in the offseason.

Address: 290 Old Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954

Read: The Top Things to Do in Long Island

Courtesy of Discover Long Island

While the Hamptons remains an elite vacation spot on Long Island, the North Fork has been giving that resort destination a run for its money – especially in recent years. Thanks to an ideal terroir for growing grapes, Long Island has an established wine scene, with most of the vineyards and wineries located on the North Fork. You'll find many of the region's wineries along Route 25 (the main thoroughfare); guided wine tours with a personal driver are a popular way to taste the region's signature wines, which include merlot, cabernet franc and chardonnay. In June, many of the wineries celebrate Pride Month.

The area is also dotted with U-pick farms and farmers markets, some of which sell another local delicacy: oysters. For an essential North Fork experience, pair your oysters with wine at places such as Terra Vite North Fork Winery & Vineyard and Peconic Bay Vineyards – the latter offers oyster happy hours seasonally.

Couples can relax by the seaside in Orient Beach State Park, where beachgoers enjoy kayaking, windsurfing, fishing and other opportunities for outdoor recreation. Round out your romantic getaway in Long Island with a game of golf and some upscale dining, then check into one of the North Fork's boutique hotels or bed-and-breakfasts .

Courtesy of Abbey Inn & Spa

Often considered New York City's sixth borough, Westchester County is perfect for a weekend getaway with your partner. Just north of Manhattan, set between the Hudson River and Long Island Sound, Westchester County offers a little bit of everything: quaint river towns (including the legendary Sleepy Hollow), beaches, historic landmarks, seasonal events, and hiking and biking trails galore. You can also traverse the Westchester Farm Trail, which encompasses 13 farms and orchards with markets, U-pick options and more.

Romantic accommodations in Westchester County include the Bedford Post Inn, a Relais & Châteaux property with just eight rooms (many with fireplaces) and two highly rated farm-to-table restaurants. The Abbey Inn and Spa, which overlooks the Hudson River, is another lovely lodging option: Once a convent, the stunning building now houses luxurious guest rooms and suites, a restaurant, and a full-service spa where you and your lover can unwind with a lava stone couples massage.

Whiteface Lodge: Lake Placid

Courtesy of Whiteface Lodge

It doesn't get more romantic than Whiteface Lodge in Lake Placid. The AAA Four Diamond resort boasts a variety of rustic-luxe suites (including one-bedroom options), most with cast-iron fireplaces, jetted tubs, and patios or balconies. Romantic on-site amenities and activities include evening drinks under the stars in a private lean-to; a spa with hot tubs, steam rooms and saunas; ice skating in the winter; and fine dining at Kanu, where guests say the atmosphere alone is worth a dinner reservation.

A two-time host of the Winter Olympics, Lake Placid offers a variety of Olympics-inspired museums and experiences, with unique winter activities including bobsledding at Mount Van Hoevenberg and dog-sledding on frozen Mirror Lake. Of course, there's also skiing, snowboarding and the like at Whiteface Mountain, one of the best ski resorts in New York . While you're visiting, take time for a romantic stroll along Lake Placid's Main Street, which looks like a Norman Rockwell painting. Previous guests adore Whiteface Lodge, noting that it's ideal for both couples and families.

Address: 7 Whiteface Inn Lane, Lake Placid, NY 12946

The Sagamore Resort: Bolton Landing

Courtesy of The Sagamore Resort

There are plenty of vacation rentals on Lake George, but if you're looking for the ultimate escape with your partner, book a stay at The Sagamore Resort (part of the Opal Collection). Located on a 70-acre private island in the Adirondacks, the hotel features award-winning dining, an 18-hole golf course, a full-service spa, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Especially unique is the annual Glacier Ice Bar & Lounge, where 18,000 pounds of crystal-clear ice are transformed to create an Antarctic setting overlooking Lake George.

If you're seeking a private outdoor space and/or fireplace, a spacious option is a two-bedroom condo (or perhaps a four-room condo or house if you're traveling with other couples). Otherwise, you'll be perfectly comfortable in a lodge room or suite, some of which also come with fireplaces or balconies. Previous guests say this historic resort – first opened in 1883 and even considered by some to be a haunted hotel – is absolutely majestic.

Address: 110 Sagamore Road, Bolton Landing, NY 12814

Troutbeck: Amenia

Courtesy of Troutbeck

Tuck into Troutbeck, a historic estate hotel whose most famous guests include Ralph Waldo Emerson and Henry David Thoreau. Located in the Hudson Valley, the hotel features field-to-fork dining led by Michelin-starred chef Gabe McMackin, as well as The Barns, a wellness facility featuring yoga, meditation and Kinesoma classes (dance-based movement). The wellness offerings also include services such as acupuncture and massages. An outdoor swimming pool and grill, hammock and picnic sites, tennis courts, and free bike rentals complement the serene setting.

For an especially romantic lodging option, book the Dunham Suite, named for its lovely view of the nearby creek. The suite features a king-size, four-poster bed; a gas fireplace; a wet bar with a minifridge; heated bathroom flooring; and a standalone soaking tub and separate rain shower. Recent guests say they enjoyed the beauty and history of this hotel from the 1700s.

Address: 515 Leedsville Road, Amenia, NY 12501

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross has traveled to New York countless times, most recently for a stay at the Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa. Of all the places she's visited, she maintains that upstate New York is one of the most romantic destinations in the U.S .

You might also be interested in:

• The Most Romantic Getaways in Ohio
• The Most Romantic Getaways in New Jersey
• The Most Romantic Getaways in Pennsylvania

Tags: Travel , New York Vacations , Mid-Atlantic Vacations , US Vacations , Couples Vacations

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

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Taylor Swift hints at Eras Tour setlist changes after ‘TTPD’ album release

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Fans theorize that Taylor Swift is changing her Eras Tour setlist to include songs from her new album, “The Tortured Poets Department.”

Swift shared a black-and-white video collage of her practicing for the upcoming leg of her tour and added her new single, “Fortnight,” in the background to YouTube Shorts on Thursday.

The Grammy winner, 34, included several snippets of her wearing different athleisure outfits while holding a microphone, singing and dancing on different parts of the stage.

The “Cruel Summer” songstress even featured a snap of her playing her acoustic guitar and sitting at her signature mossy piano.

However, some eagle-eyed fans noticed a few differences in some of the clips from what she’s done in her past shows –– such as her background dancers wearing black top hats and canes.

Swift also appeared to be leaning on a silver pole that seemed to have a white “TTPD” sign hanging on the side of it. Fans additionally pointed out her white guitar and matching microphone.

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“A fortnight til Paris 🤍 Brought to you by YouTube Shorts #ForAFortnightChallenge,” she captioned the video on Thursday.

Swift will resume her tour in Paris in two weeks –– aka a fortnight –– on May 9.

Several fans flooded the comments pointing out the changes and wrote about how convinced they are she’ll be swapping some songs for “TTPD” hits.

“Won’t be surprised if she actually does change the setlist a little bit,” one user wrote.

“she’s going to add TTPD songs to the setlist!!” another person commented.

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“SHE’S PROB GONNA ADD TTPD!!!!!” someone exclaimed.

“TTPD on the setlist😭I will pass out,” another person added.

Swift has not released the setlist for her upcoming shows and she did not share the setlist before she kicked off the tour in Arizona in March 2023.

The “Shake it Off” songstress previously sang 44 songs on every show and swapped out two songs each concert that were acoustic “surprise songs” not included in the same setlist.

After Paris, Swift will hit several European countries, including Sweden, Spain and Portugal, before wrapping up in London in August.

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