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!
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.
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
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Outside of New York City
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.
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Outside of New York City
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
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 NYC to Philadelphia
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Outside of New York City
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
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.
Want to see both?
You could also combine visiting these two amazing cities with this Private Washington & Philadelphia Tour in 1 Day.
Weekend getaway to Philadelphia & Amish Country
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
Our Highlight
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
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park
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Outside of New York City
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)
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to the Hamptons
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Long Island City
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
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Queens
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 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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Weekend Getaway from NYC to the Finger Lakes
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Baltimore
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley
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Outside of New York City
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.
Places To See on your Day Trip from New York
Hudson Highlands State Park
Bannerman Castle
Little Stony Point
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Shopping Day Trip to the American Dream Mall
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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
Places To See
Mohonk Mountain House
Labyrinth Trail
Skytop Tower
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to New Haven
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Outside of New York City
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.
Places To See
Yale University
East Rock Park
Five Mile Point Light
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Hamilton Township
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to The Palisades
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Outside of New York City
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.
Places To See
Alpine Lookout
Women’s Federation Monument
Untermyer Gardens
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Phoenicia
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Outside of 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.
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Shopping Day Trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Sleepy Hollow
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Day Trip from NYC to Ithaca
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Outside of New York City
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
Weekend Getaway from NYC to Martha’s Vineyard
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Outside of New York City
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.
Places To See
Gingerbread Houses
The Island’s five lighthouses
Alley’s General Store
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.
Shopping Day Trip to the Garden State Plaza Mall
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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.
Places To See
Conway scenic railway
Polar Caves Park
Cranmore Mountain Resort
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 NYC to Atlantic City
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Outside of New York 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
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 NYC to Ocean City
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Outside of New York 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.
Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car)
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
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.
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.
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York 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
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Outside of New York 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.
Baltimore
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Outside of New York City
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 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.
Albany
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Outside of New York City
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
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Outside of New York City
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)
Phoenicia
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Outside of 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.
Distance: 130 Miles (2 – 2,5 hours by car)
Poughkeepsie
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Outside of New York City
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.
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…
Der Beitrag The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC erschien zuerst auf Loving New York.
