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The 18 best weekend getaways from new york city.

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

18 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

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

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

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

Best Weekend Getaways From New York City

About two hours or less:

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

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

About three hours or less:

Fire Island, New York

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

About four hours or less:

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

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

About five hours or less:

Saranac Lake, New York

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

A quick flight:

Niagara Falls, New York and Ontario

Two hours or less.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[See more of Philadelphia: Best Things to Do ]

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

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

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

Three hours or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Read:  The Top New York Ski Resorts .]

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

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

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

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

Four hours or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Five hours or less

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Read:  The Top Boston Harbor Cruises .]

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

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

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

A quick flight

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

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

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

You might also be interested in:

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

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

World's Best Places To Visit

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

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15 Easy Weekend Getaways From NYC

By Alex Erdekian

Weekend getaways from NYC can do wonders for the mind and soul. When in the city, most people can’t help but hustle—but a break from subway rides and cramped apartments is something we all need once in a while. (As for visitors, there's no doubt appeal in doing as New Yorkers do and pairing your city break with a local-loved side trip.) 

Disappearing into the woods, soaking up salty sea air, or getting lost in wine country all have their charms.—and thankfully, all of the above is on offer within a few hours of Manhattan. From the Hamptons to the Adirondacks—and even a quick two-hour hop over to Bermuda—beaches, islands, and mountains are all easily accessible. Some of them may leave you wondering why New York's supporting destinations don't get more buzz in the first place. 

Below, the 15 best weekend getaways from NYC. Here's to checking them all of your bucket list. (For the best restaurants, hotels, and more in the city itself, check out our New York City travel guide .)

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The good-time island: Fire Island, New York

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, plus a 30-minute ferry ride

An all-time favorite summer escape, and one that is especially important to NYC’s queer community, is Fire Island. With its many towns and beaches, each boasting their own local flavor, the Long Island barrier island makes it easy to choose the spot to match your vibe. A few popular spots: Cherry Grove is a fun-loving party destination, Kismet is known for its nightlife, and Fire Island Pines is an affluent community with a dining and shopping scene and some of the island’s most expensive addresses. A worthwhile hotel option is the Madison , the boutique bed and breakfast where the cast of Fire Island stayed while shooting the recent film. (A few other spots it featured? The bar Cherry’s which offers harborside drag shows, vintage shop DENIZEN , and the Belvedere Fire Island , a palatial resort for gay men.

The city break: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

About a two-hour drive; about an hour and fifteen minutes via Amtrak

It may be obvious, but it’s too easily forgotten by New Yorkers: the easy urban getaway to nearby Philadelphia. The city is budding with things to do, whether you’re in search of great new restaurants, fantastic art exhibits, or just a change of pace. A few of our favorite to-dos in Philly include visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art, followed by the perfect cheesesteak at John’s Roast Pork . Betsy Blumenthal, Features and Franchises Editor at Traveler —and resident Philly expert—recommends the city’s Four Seasons for its spectacular aerial views of landmarks like Independence Hall. (For even more destination tips, check out our comprehensive Philadelphia city guide. )

The posh beach hang: The Hamptons

About a two-hour drive

For many, the Hamptons conjure visions of Upper East Siders summering in their mansions, and flitting between high society parties. A weekend is the perfect stretch of time to slip into that whirlwind before letting the city ground you once again. Classic to-dos like visiting the Pollock-Krasner house in East Hampton (open May to October), designer shopping in the villages, and waterfront dining are always a good idea, as are summery outdoor activities. Pedal around the Atlantic Avenue Beach area with a bike rental from Amagansett Beach & Bicycle Company , savor a hefty lobster roll at the Dock House in Sag Harbor, or find inner peace in bird-filled Hither Hills State Park . A classic East Hampton stay, the Maidstone Hotel is the perfect place to post up (if you don't have an invite to one of the aforementioned mansions, that is).

The quintessential beach town: Asbury Park, New Jersey

Just over an hour’s drive

We’ve long held the opinion that the classic Jersey Shore town, Asbury Park, doesn’t get enough attention . Super accessible from the city, it’s just an hour and fifteen minutes by car on the Garden State Parkway, and only thirty minutes longer if you're traveler from Penn Station on a Bay Head-bound North Jersey Coast Line train. From Asbury Park’s bustling boardwalk to its famous mile-long beach, this town offers the perfect blend of relaxation and action. Experience the exciting local food scene by making stops at Reyla (for Mediterranean small plates) or beachside coffee shop Asbury Park Roastery. Consider staying at the Asbury Ocean Club, Surfside Resort and Residences for an elevated beachside experience or the eclectic ​​Asbury Hotel , which has the perfect rooftop.

Jessica Puckett

Anna Borges

Karthika Gupta

The eclectic island: Martha’s Vineyard

A five-hour ferry ride

Sometimes an island is the best escape. Martha’s Vineyard, with its lighthouses , arcades and carousels, sandy shores, and vast landscapes fits the bill. To get there, take a five-hour Seastreak Ferry from Midtown Manhattan, fly from JFK airport, or drive to Falmouth, Massachusetts (about 4.5 hours), and pay for overnight parking before grabbing the 30-minute ferry from there. The colorful, fairytale-ish town of Oak Bluffs is one of our favorite East Coast beach towns ; there, an ideal spot to post up is Summercamp Hotel (rooms from $235 per night). Deeper into the island, stop at Aquinnah, which feels martian-like with its clay-red lighthouse and cliffs.

The wine tour: The Finger Lakes

About a four-and-a-half-hour drive

New York’s biggest wine region offers plenty of options for sampling its famous riesling—but wine tasting is hardly all the area has to offer. The adventurous can pencil dive into a gorge or wade under a waterfall. Or stay above water: Canandaigua Sailboard offers paddleboard yoga , kayaking, and windsurfing. Between four and five hours from New York City , the Finger Lakes are just far enough to be a true escape. From Ithaca to quaint Skaneateles, there are a number of places that make for an ideal home base. Boutique hotel Argos Inn in Ithaca (rooms from $180 per night) is one of them. We love the romantic renovated mansion for the original art prints in each room, some by Salvador Dalí. 

The island escape: Bermuda

About a two-hour flight

Out of all of the destinations on this list, Bermuda offers the most drastic change in scenery. It’s pretty unbelievable that this Atlantic island—with its powdery, pale pink beaches, drifting mangroves, and gleaming white churches—is a quick getaway from NYC; the flight from JFK takes just two hours. Jet over and consider sunning on the iconic Horseshoe Bay Beach, snorkeling around a shipwreck, or sipping a rum swizzle with fellow travelers. We have ideas about where to stay, too. You have options: a cheerful yellow one-bedroom bungalow with a rooftop patio in Southampton, as well as a mini villa with waterfront views in Pembroke. Alternatively, surround yourself in high style at the Rosewood Bermuda , the premiere luxury stay on the island. (Need more Bermuda travel inspiration? Explore our destination guide .)

The nautical overnight: Mystic, Connecticut

About a two-and-a-half hour drive, three hours by train via Amtrak

Mystic’s maritime history gives this town a classic New England feel. Even today, it remains recognizable by the boats that sail the Mystic River and Long Island Sound. History buffs can immerse themselves in the lore with a visit to the Mystic Seaport Museum , where there are reproductions of the Mayflower II. For another take on all things aquatic, visit the Mystic Aquarium , where African penguins waddle and Beluga whales swim. Enjoy the charm of eateries like Nana’s Bakery and Pizza , which mills its own flour, as well as the Oyster Club for fresh and locally-caught fish. Stay a night or two at the Whaler’s Inn , which has historical pull (it’s been around since 1818), yet was renovated in 2021. Its modern comforts include four-poster beds, gas fireplaces, water views, and an excellent farm-to-table restaurant, the Shipwright’s Daughter .

The classic coastal destination: Newport, Rhode Island

About a three-hour drive

There’s so much to see in Newport , one of New England’s most storied summer towns. Do up your weekend T-Swift-style with winding coastline drives, half-pound lobster rolls, and wanderings through Gilded Age summer “cottages” as they were called in the 1920s. During the day, take in sweeping Atlantic Ocean and mansion views on the famed Cliff Walk or boogie board at First Beach. Then, when it starts to get dark, visit the Roof Deck at the Vanderbilt hotel for a sunset drink. For a luxury stay, consider spending a couple nights at the aforementioned Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection . If you’re looking for a homey group spot, check out this two-bedroom cottage a few steps from the beach. However you do it, it'll be easy to see why Newport is one of the best weekend getaways from NYC. 

The quick camping trip: Cold Spring

About an hour-and-a-half train ride or drive

For an easy camping trip that doesn’t require a car, your spot is Fahnestock State Park . The campsite is near the Cold Spring stop on the Metro-North’s Hudson line—a short Uber ride covers the gap from the train station to the park itself. Squeeze everything you need for a night or two into a backpack , and relish in the empowerment and self-sufficiency of being 100 percent mobile. The hiking trails that run through the park connect to the vast Appalachian Trail, which touches 14 eastern seaboard states from Georgia to Maine . Besides hiking, the park has a beach on Canopus Lake, and fishing on four ponds and two additional lakes. On your way home, stop at Hudson Hil’s for a decadent brunch in the town of Cold Spring (we’re eyeing the Creole omelette) then walk to the train. If you’re looking to expand your journey throughout the region, there are many towns to love and explore in the Hudson River Valley area, including Beacon , Hudson , Kingston, and Rhinebeck.

The off-season gem: Lake Placid

About a five-hour drive

Better known as a winter destination , Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Olympics, has a wealth of outdoor recreation in the summer months, too. At glassy, serene Mirror Lake, visitors can paddle out on canoes and kayaks . On the Brewster Peninsula Nature Trails, hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers will pass the shimmering lake, cedar trees, and a population of otters. The Olympic sites include the magical Cloudsplitter Gondola ride, a rifle range, a glass elevator, a speed skating oval, a zip line park, the Herb Brooks Arena, and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. If you're craving some time indoors, don't fret: The area’s old-fashioned movie theater at Tupper Lake Municipal Park, Adirondack State Theater, is currently screening Nope . Bed down at Lake Placid Lodge (rooms from $499 per night), a former summer camp .

The mountain escape: The Berkshires

About a three-and-a-half hour drive

The Berkshires , in western Massachusetts and northwest Connecticut, is one of those places that offers entirely different types of trips with every passing season. In the summer, the region is known for the anticipated Tanglewood season, in which the Boston Symphonic Orchestra and Boston Pops take residence and perform. In the fall, visitors can drive through some of the world’s most vibrant foliage along Route 2 and 7. Come winter, cold-weather sports are on offer—whether you’re looking to downhill ski or snowshoe. With the thaw of spring, hikes with waterfall views are easy to find at Bash Bish Falls State Park. Year-round, the food and drink scene won’t disappoint either: For an artisan cocktail after the sun goes down, visit Berkshire Mountain Distillers ; to enjoy a plate of shrimp gumbo, visit Nudel ; and to savor the notorious local cheeses, visit the North Adams’ Farmers Market. As far as hotels go, we have a few ideas. Restorative Canyon Ranch, Lenox is a four-time Readers’ Choice Awards winner, while Miraval Berkshires is one of New England’s largest and most renowned spas.

The great outdoors: Lake George

About a three-and-a-half-hour drive

Set in the Adirondacks in upstate New York, Lake George offers lots of open space and a slower pace of life. Take in the natural beauty with a scenic drive on NY-9 or NY-418, admire falcons at Bolton Landing, or shack up in a tent at the Lake George Island campsite . Other summer outdoor activities include fishing, cycling down the Warren County Bikeway, and golfing at the breathtaking Top of the World course. Boathouse Bed and Breakfast is the only B&B located directly on the lake , and has the most serene water views.

The peaceful spot: North Fork, Long Island

For a low key Long Island alternative to the Hamptons, the bucolic North Fork and adjacent Shelter Island are what you're after. Head first to Greenport, North Fork’s largest town which is known for its marinas, fishing boats, neighboring vineyards, and blooming fields of lavender in July. Sound View Greenport is our pick for where to stay in town. Their fisherman-and-farmer-forward restaurant the Halyard is open, too—don't sleep on the summer truffle and fresh cavatelli. Then, take the ferry from nearby North Haven to Shelter Island, where you'll find hiking trails, osprey, and salt marshes at the Mashomack Nature Preserve, and even more land to explore on the protected beaches or in the acres of forest. If you are strategic about avoid common travel times (Friday evening out of the city, Sunday evening to return), you can be in North Fork in just two hours, making it a surprisingly quick weekend getaway from NYC. 

The artist’s haven: Woodstock

The best place to start in Woodstock may be the slopes of Overlook Mountain. The limestone peak, full of red oaks, firs, and (keep your eyes peeled) timber rattlesnakes, features some interesting ruins, like the eerie remains of Overlook Mountain House, which brought tourists to the Catskills in the 19th century and sits just south of the Overlook fire tower. If privacy is what you’re looking for, you might consider this bright and airy studio loft decorated in a farmhouse style. While you’re there, scoop up quality produce at Sunflower Market , or if you don’t want to turn on an oven in the summer heat, snag a table outdoors at Phoenicia Diner . The cult favorite is a treat for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Highly recommended: the Phoenicia Smash sandwich (beef griddled into caramelized onion, mustard, mayo, New York cheddar, and pickles on a Brioche bun).

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16 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from New York City

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated Jun 23, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Big Apple is one of the best places to visit in the United States . Overflowing with iconic sights and things to do, New York attracts millions of vacationers. Sometimes, though, the concrete jungle can get to be a bit much – all that noise and hustle and bustle can become draining – causing people to search for a relaxing weekend getaway from New York City.

Luckily, the city that never sleeps is surrounded by picturesque areas offering a more laid-back, natural feel – we're talking soft, sandy beaches; mountain vistas; majestic state parks, and sparkling lakes – that make it easy to decompress.

Whether you choose to take a bus, train, or drive your own car, most of these gorgeous spots are within easy reach of New York City.

Decide which place to visit first with our list of the top weekend getaways from New York City.

1. The Hamptons, New York

2. hudson, new york, 3. philadelphia, pennsylvania, 4. harriman state park, new york, 5. the catskills, new york, 6. beacon, new york, 7. mohonk mountain house-new paltz, new york, 8. cape may, new jersey, 9. mystic, connecticut, 10. hunter, new york, 11. sleepy hollow, new york, 12. princeton, new jersey, 13. ocean city, new jersey, 14. washington, connecticut, 15. the finger lakes, new york, 16. newport, rhode island, map of weekend getaways from new york city.

The southern tip of Long Island has a lengthy history as a favorite vacation spot for those wanting to escape the Big Apple and get some quality beach time. This is also a hot spot for celebs looking to improve their tans and chase their kids on the soft sand. This glitzy area offers countless activities in quaint villages, which make up what is known as The Hamptons.

Each hamlet has its own unique personality (and price tag), including Bridgehampton , Montauk , Sag Harbor , Amagansett , and Sagaponack . From quiet retreats and artsy enclaves to mini versions of a social scene of Manhattan on the Beach , the Hamptons offer something for everyone.

During the busy summer season be prepared for what can be crippling traffic that can turn the short distance into a three-hour drive (or more), especially if you choose to commute from the city on a Friday. However, few will argue that it's not worth the effort.

Those with deep pockets can hire a helicopter service to transport them straight to the Hamptons in anywhere from 25 to 65 minutes. Other options include taking a bus or driving yourself. No matter how you choose to get there, a sandy paradise awaits, immediately transporting visitors from the manic pace of New York City.

While in the region, be sure to stop by a local seafood shack like the Dock House in Sag Harbor, where you can catch sweeping views of the marina while eating some fresh, local catch, a specialty in the Hamptons. Miles of beaches invite visitors for long walks, swimming, sand-castle building, and boogie boarding.

There is an array of fabulous resorts and beach hotels to consider but be sure to book early as they fill up months (sometimes even a year) in advance. Or, do as the wealthy do and rent a vacation home. Many cost over $200,000 for the summer season, which usually runs from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Located on the east side of the Hudson River, Hudson, NY is about a 2.5-hour drive from the city. Visitors might be surprised to hear that Hudson was a former whaling port with ties to Nantucket in the 1800s. The town is filled with 19th-century charm and gorgeous historic buildings.

Hudson is also known for its up-and-coming culinary scene, complete with notable New York chefs. You'll want to arrive hungry! Take some time to stroll the streets, which are peppered with antique stores, one-of-a-kind shops, and art galleries like Art House Hudson or the Carrie Haddad Gallery . Make sure to get in some hiking at one of the scenic trails nearby.

Just a short distance from the Amtrak station, The Wick, Hudson, A Tribute Portfolio Hotel is housed in a repurposed candle factory. Guests can rely on modern amenities while absorbing the unique character of this trendy boutique property.

The Hudson Valley is filled with glamorous resorts that make the most of their scenic locale. Take time to research them all to find one that's perfect for you. Even if it's not in Hudson, you'll find plenty to do.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Hudson, NY

Despite being one of the largest cities in this country, Philadelphia can feel like a small town, especially if you wander through some of its older neighborhoods, like Old City or Northern Liberties. If you are a history buff, Philadelphia is a wonderful weekend getaway from New York City. Stop by the Reading Terminal Market , the oldest public market, and grab a bite to eat. Their Pennsylvania Dutch pretzels are legendary as is the ice cream at Bassetts.

After you've refueled, visit Elfreth's Alley to see the oldest street in America or stop by and ogle a copy of the Constitution, as well as more of our nation's history at the National Constitution Center . Art lovers should make sure to visit the Magic Garden , a wonderful environment of mosaic creativity. The Philadelphia Zoo is also a must-see, especially for those traveling with kids.

No trip to Philly is complete without enjoying one of their world-famous cheesesteaks. Although there are hundreds to choose from, most tourists go for Geno's or Pat's located across the street from one another in South Philadelphia.

The easiest way to beat the traffic on your way to Philadelphia from New York is by Amtrak. They offer a high-speed Acela train, as well as the standard Northeast Corridor Line, and depending on which you take, you can make it from point to point in about an hour and a half.

Looking for a sense of place during your Philadelphia stay? The eco-friendly Kimpton Hotel Palomar Philadelphia has incorporated local décor and artwork into its centrally located property. This Art Deco gem is part of the Kimpton brand and has a wonderful on-site restaurant featuring the best of local ingredients on the menu. If the spirit moves you, take advantage of their loaner bikes to spin around this neighborhood, with a stop in one of the many green spaces for which the city is well known.

Not sure how to get from New York City to Philadelphia ? There are plenty of options, including a train, plane, bus, or car. Philadelphia is 95 miles from NYC.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Philadelphia

A trip to Harriman State Park is a must for those looking to escape the city's rat race in favor of immersing themselves in the glory of mother nature. Worthy of more than a day trip from New York City , the park has 200 miles of hiking trails, beaches, camping areas, lakes, and a seemingly endless array of wildlife, offering the perfect respite from busy city life.

Head over to Lake Sebago , one of the largest lakes in the park, where you can enjoy swimming, boating, or camping. You can even hike the 18-mile portion of the famous Appalachian Trail that runs through Harriman.

Getting here from the city is easy; it's only a 35-mile drive. The historic Bear Mountain Inn lies a 14-minute drive from Harriman. Built in 1915, it is set on a plateau above Hessian Lake, offering guests lovely views and plenty of charm. The 15 rooms and suites are rustic and comfortable and there is a restaurant on-site, as well as a gift shop and grab-and-go café.

A visit to the Catskills is a New Yorker's rite of passage. Located in the Appalachian Mountain range in southeastern New York, the Catskills are the perfect setting for a relaxing girlfriends' getaway, a romantic couples' weekend, or even a family trip. This is one of the best weekend getaway locales in upstate New York .

The best way to get here is to hop in the car for a 150-mile drive, which, depending on the traffic and time of year, can take anywhere from two and a half to four hours. The trip is richly rewarding, especially in fall, when the autumn leaves light up the mountains with their rich colors.

If you are looking for scenic views, head to Overlook Mountain in Woodstock or the Minnewaska State Park Preserve in Kerhonkson. Here, you can hike or just relax and convene with nature. For those searching for a little more adventure, you can do the fastest and highest zipline tour at Hunter Mountain , or paddle out to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse .

The Catskills are also filled with great places to eat, which is a good thing seeing as you'll spend much of your time here working up an appetite by adventuring. Depending on your mood, you can get everything from classic diner food at places like the Ambrosia Diner .

As for a place to rest your weary head, there is a wide variety of properties available to fit all needs, from bed-and-breakfasts to high-end resorts. A property that combines the best of both worlds is the Melour Resort in Tannersville. At this friendly and luxurious resort, you'll find a wide variety of modern amenities mixed with the charm of a small-town retreat.

An indoor pool and Jacuzzi are a hit with kids and adults of all ages, and the sauna is a perfect way to decompress after a long day spent hiking, biking, or skiing. There's also a 24-hour tea room and fitness center on-site.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in the Catskills, NY

Located on the banks of the Hudson River and close to New York City, Beacon makes a great getaway for those who don't want to suffer through sitting in long lines of traffic or hours in the car. If you take the Metro North train line, you can get here in about an hour and a half.

In Beacon, you will find your fill of Victorian-era architecture and small-town charm. Be sure to stop into one of the many cafés to grab a bite to eat and a coffee before heading down the main street and visiting the unique antique stores, collectible shops, and art galleries.

If you just want to relax and enjoy the river views, take a stroll to the waterfront, where you can enjoy biking and walking paths and plenty of greenery to get that concrete out of your brain. You can also drive to the top of Mount Beacon by taking the incline road. This hour ride will give you breathtaking views, especially in the fall.

Overlooking Fishkill Creek and Beacon Falls, the Roundhouse is a historic property reimagined into a modern hotel. Several buildings offer 41 guest rooms and an award-winning restaurant filled with tasty offerings.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Beacon, NY

The Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York is a destination in itself and a major tourist attraction in the Hudson Valley . Architecturally, it looks like a Victorian castle sitting on the banks of the majestic Mohonk Lake . The sprawling house grounds and amenities make for a stay so all-encompassing you won't ever have to leave the property.

Boat rides on the lake, hiking, and "forest bathing" are all part of the experience. Doesn't everyone appreciate a walk in the woods to renew their mind? This now trendy experience originated many years ago in Japan.

The premise of shinrin-yoku (as it's known in Japan) is to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and feelings of the forest as you wander through, focusing on these senses, which will, in turn, heighten your physical and emotional health.

The fall is an especially beautiful time for a visit, and all visitors will find it hard to resist the many offerings from the award-winning spa menu. Several restaurants on the property offer extensive menus of delicious dishes featuring seasonal ingredients. Concerts, festivals, and cultural offerings keep the calendar busy all year long.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in New Paltz, NY

Cape May is one of the most enchanting destinations along the Jersey Shore beaches. Dotted with Victorian houses and quaint bed and breakfasts, along with a pristine coastline, Cape May is not only a great spot for a couples' getaway, but for families as well. It's also one of the best weekend getaways in New Jersey .

The beach is the main draw, as the area is known as the nation's oldest seaside resort. That said, if you want to beat the heat or enjoy a rainy day indoors, pick one of Cape May's many things to do – like the Cape May County Park and Zoo , Fireman's Museum , or the iconic Cape May Lighthouse . We won't blame you if you'd like to relax in one of the area's many spas.

Cape May has no shortage of resorts and inns to make your getaway a special experience.

Mystic is one of Connecticut's most charming maritime towns. Steeped in history and abundant in New England charm, this sweet spot is a lovely place to visit, especially during the summer and fall. It's chock-full of fun activities for the whole family.

The Mystic Seaport Museum tops the list of things to do in Mystic , with its re-created 19th-century seafaring village, children's museum, and the Charles W. Morgan wooden whaling ship. Next, you'll have to see the Mystic Aquarium , one of the best attractions in Connecticut.

Don't leave town without grabbing a few sweet samples from the food shops located in the adorable shopping village across from the aquarium. Called the Olde Mistick Village , this picturesque spot will take you back in time, and it offers a slew of unique wares in addition to tasty fare.

Author's tip: Save room for tea at Alice's in the Village . A whimsical spot created in homage to Lewis Caroll's famed novel, children will love its fun vibe, not to mention the creative flavors of bubble and matcha tee on offer.

A 2.5-hour drive east will get you from New York City to Mystic, passing the opulent town of Greenwich along the way. Break up the journey with a stop here to enjoy the pristine streets, upscale shops, and fabulous restaurants.

The Whaler's Inn on downtown's Main Street is a relaxing place to spend your weekend getaway from New York City. At this boutique hotel that's served the area for over 60 years, you'll find great service along with free breakfast and family-friendly suites within its five newly renovated buildings.

This sleepy town in New York State actually consists of two villages: Tannersville and Hunter. Its Catskill location makes it a great spot for a weekend getaway from New York City for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts.

About a two-hour drive (without traffic), Hunter offers skiing, ziplining, hiking, and other outdoor activities, making it a great place to visit in New York State year-round. That said, fall and winter are favored times to visit, as they offer tons of fun activities and events.

Visitors can head out to enjoy the spectacular fall foliage with a side of live music at Oktoberfest in autumn or go skiing at Hunter Mountain , a popular ski resort that has been drawing families, who return year after year, in winter. This is one of the best places to go skiing near New York City .

Sleepy Hollow received fame from its folklore tale of the headless horseman, but it stays a popular weekend getaway from New York City because of its appeal to those interested in the supernatural and macabre. Washington Irving might have made it famous, but Tim Burton put it on the map for a whole new generation. Located in the town of Mount Pleasant, the village boasts plenty of hiking, art, and views of the past.

If you are lucky enough to get away in the fall, you can take part in spooky Oktoberfest or head out on the Haunted Hayride . At all other times of the year, you can just enjoy all the rest of the ghostly things this unique village has to offer, like the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery . In addition, Kykuit , the Rockefeller family's hilltop estate has beautiful gardens, outdoor sculpture, and a gallery.

Getting to Sleepy Hollow is easy – you can either make the 90-minute drive from the city or jump on the light rail and arrive in about the same time with no risk of traffic.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Sleepy Hollow, NY

Best known as home to one of America's best Ivy League schools, Princeton boasts much more than its impressive academia. That said, Princeton University's grand buildings are hard to miss and even more difficult to dislike. The historic architecture is enough to make your jaw drop, while the inside of places like the Princeton University Art Museum and Nassau Hall are so lovely, you'll want to stay longer.

Palmer Square serves as the heart of this pretty New Jersey town. You can shop, eat, and sit for a while soaking up the vibe at one of the central picnic tables. Save room for dessert, as the square is lined with chocolate and ice cream shops

There's plenty of entertainment on offer to keep you occupied all weekend long. From performances at the McCarter Theater Center to plays at the Princeton Garden Theatre , you won't be at a loss for things to see. History lovers will enjoy a trip to Princeton Battlefield State Park and the Morven Museum and Garden .

If you're looking for a special place to stay, the Nassau Inn is a charming retreat located in Palmer Square. This sweet inn may look small and historic from the outside, but it's been updated to a level of modernity all current guests will enjoy.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Princeton, NJ

Ocean City offers one of the best New Jersey beaches for families. At this dry town, you don't have to worry about obnoxious revelers loudly strolling the 2.5-mile boardwalk or jostling for space on the miles of soft, sandy beach. Also, lifeguards are on duty between Memorial Day and Sunfest Weekend (usually the third weekend after Labor Day) to ensure your kids are safe.

When you aren't digging your toes in the sand, make good use of the area's best attractions. The boardwalk is the heart of Ocean City. It boasts two mini golf courses, the super fun Gillian's Wonderland Pier amusement park (complete with a Ferris wheel), and enough sweet shops to keep your dentist in business.

A two-hour drive from New York City, this top beach town is one of the best places to enjoy a weekend getaway filled with sun, sand, and surf. If you're hoping to make the most of your quick getaway, plan to visit during the warm, summer months–winter gets pretty bleak around here.

Scarborough Inn is by far the best place to stay in Ocean City. You'll be hard-pressed to find something with more charm and friendlier staff. Smooth jazz guides you through the historic doors of the oldest hotel in Ocean City , but when you enter the newly renovated, modern chic rooms, and eat the delicious homemade breakfast, you'll never want to leave.

If they're fully booked, try The Bayberry Inn Bed & Breakfast . At this smaller, charismatic hotel, guests are set close to the beach and can enjoy a romantic stay in comfortable rooms featuring wicker furniture and floral prints.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Ocean City, New Jersey

Washington is a haven for outdoorsy travelers. One of the best small towns in Connecticut , this rural gem is everything New York City is not: quiet, clean, and filled with natural wonders like thundering waterfalls and deep forests. It's located two and a half hours northeast of New York.

You'll be spoiled for ways to enjoy the fresh air. Hike across the Henry David Thoreau suspension bridge , which is tucked into the majestic Hidden Valley Preserve in Washington Depot. Or explore the 998-acre Steep Rock Preserve . Climb the 776 feet to Steep Rock Summit for the best views.

The Washington Art Association and Gallery is also worthy of a look, as is the Gunn Historical Museum .

The Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection is one of the best resorts in Connecticut for multiple reasons. First, it is gorgeous, elegant, and well-serviced. Next, it boasts incredibly luxurious amenities like a gourmet restaurant, two pools, and a spa.

Whether you're hoping to soak up the most majestic fall colors, swim in New York's best lakes , or marvel at the tallest waterfall in the Eastern US, The Finger Lakes region is packed with exciting things to do and stunning places to visit.

First up is a trip to the spectacular Watkins Glen State Park , where you can spend the day hiking.

Next, it's time for a hot air balloon ride above Letchworth State Park . The views are as breathtaking as the strong winds. If that's not your thing, you can always just go for a walk and appreciate the waterfalls.

Finally, go camping at Taughannock Falls State Park . It's here that you'll come face to thundering cascade with one of New York's top waterfalls , Taughannock Falls.

Still looking for more ways to spend your weekend away? With a wildlife refuge, adventure park, and ski hills, the Finger Lakes won't disappoint. The drive from New York City will take roughly five hours , which is definitely doable in a day. You'll definitely want to spend at least two nights away, which is easy to do in the region's lovely resorts.

Author's tip: No matter what time of year you're visiting, be sure to stop at Greek Peak Mountain Resort . Even if you don't stay at the affiliated resort overnight, the outdoor Adventure Center is a fab way to spend a fun-filled day with the whole family. The Mountain Coaster is a blast, and the high ropes course is a must-try.

Despite its diminutive size, Rhode Island boasts impressive towns. One of the most popular is Newport. Located a four-and-a-half-hour drive from New York City , this delightful spot is a haven for summer vacationers hoping to nibble on fresh fish, visit glamorous mansions, and shop in eclectic boutiques.

The Cliff Walk is the most famous thing to do in Newport . An easy path leads visitors along the Rhode Island Sound, with some of the town's most famed homes on full display. The Breakers , Rosecliff , and Beechwood are only a few of the mansions you'll see during this walk, and many are available to tour (for a fee).

When finished touring, take a break at Easton Beach , one of the state's best beaches . It's primed for families, boasting a playground, carousel, skateboard park, and plenty of facilities.

As for staying the night, you'll be spoiled for choice. The resorts on offer in this Rhode Island charmer are as luxe and lovely as you'd expect.

Author's tip: Eat dinner early. The restaurants in Newport are top-notch. If you can't make a reservation, head out early (we're talking 5:30pm) to ensure you find a spot. There are plenty of eateries overlooking Newport Harbor, which will add a romantic ambiance to any meal.

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Best Unique & Fun Ideas for Day Trips from NYC

Written by Becca

Updated on April 15th, 2024

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

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

Posted in New York

Day Trips from NYC

Poughkeepsie

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

Philadelphia

• Mianus River Park

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

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

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

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

NYC day trips to Upstate NY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cold Spring

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

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

Storm King Art Center

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

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

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

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

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

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

Clarence Fahnestock State Park

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

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

Bear Mountain State Park

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

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

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

Harriman State Park

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

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

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

Dater Mountain Nature Park

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

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

Day trip ideas for New Jersey

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jersey City

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

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

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

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

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

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

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

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

Watchung Reservation

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

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

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

South Mountain Reservation

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

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

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

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

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

Asbury Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wawayanda State Park

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

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

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

Day trip ideas for Long Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Jones Beach

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

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

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

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

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

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

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

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

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

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

Day trip ideas to Philly or PA

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

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

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

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

Day trip ideas to Connecticut

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mianus River Park

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

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

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

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

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• Last Updated On
• October 3, 2023

30 Best Weekend Getaways From NYC — Quick Trips!

Gather your friends, family, or partner as you go on one of the best weekend getaways from NYC.

Around New York City, many spectacular things await you, like well-renowned restaurants, diverse museums, high-energy bars, fun-filled entertainment centers, and plenty more.

You can spend your vacation exploring neighboring cities, going on an outdoor adventure, relaxing at a luxurious hotel, and doing a plethora of other enjoyable activities.

I understand how time-consuming it can get to plan the perfect weekend trip with your travel buddies.

So, to make things easier for you, I gathered all your outstanding choices below to guarantee a spectacular time that you will remember for years to come!

1. Bear Mountain State Park

Route 9W North Bear Mountain, NY 10911 (845) 786-2701

Bear Mountain State Park, established in 1913, is a highly acclaimed 5200-acre outdoor attraction welcoming more than two million visitors annually.

You can find it in the counties of Orange and Rockland, roughly an hour’s drive from New York City.

It features a beautiful natural landscape with towering trees, rich greenery, glimmering lakes, majestic mountain peaks, and more that changes with the seasons.

Enjoy thrilling activities like cross-country skiing, hiking to the mountain peak to appreciate mesmerizing views, fishing, biking, sledding, snowshoeing, camping, boating, and many others.

Onsite amenities include a seasonal outdoor rink for ice skating, a merry-go-round, a swimming pool, an informative nature center, playgrounds for children, and so much more.

2. Asbury Park

Asbury Park is an oceanfront city in Monmouth County on the Jersey Shore of New Jersey.

It is the ideal destination if you’re looking for last minute weekend getaways from NYC because it is a mere 1-hour and 10-minute drive away.

Here, you have a fun time lazing on a sandy shoreline, sightseeing, having a leisurely time at a cafe, dining at a local eatery, and more.

Visit places like the Asbury Park Boardwalk, boasting eclectic boutiques, live music, colorful murals, vendors selling tasty snacks, a vibrant nightlife, and several dining choices .

Have a blast indoors at the Silverball Retro Arcade, featuring numerous pinball machines dating from the 1930s to the present.

Prepare to be amazed as you watch a jaw-dropping live show at the Paramount Theater, an intimate and premier live music venue with a stunning architectural design.

You can also beat the heat at Asbury Splash Park, sample exquisite alcoholic drinks at Asbury Park Distilling, and view mesmerizing artwork at the Parlor Gallery.

Beacon, nicknamed the Tree City, is a city nestled on the banks of the Hudson River in the Dutches County of New York.

It is the ideal destination to go on one of the best romantic getaways from NYC, about one hour and thirty minutes away.

Bond with your partner touring art museums, like Dia Beacon, featuring contemporary and modern pieces, and Hudson Beach Glass, displaying hand-crafted functional glass and jewelry.

Go on a date as you walk hand-in-hand along Main Street, where you can discover laid-back breweries, restaurants serving foreign cuisine, boutique shops, and countless others.

Get the chance to view a local jewel by signing up for a guided tour of Bannerman Castle, which also offers a dinner backed by gorgeous views, movie nights, and alluring theatrical events.

Spend quality time with your significant other enjoying activities like shopping at a local flea market, relaxing at a park, watching a live show at a theater, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Comfort Suites Fishkill near Interstate 84

4. New Hope

New Hope, PA 18938

New Hope, nestled on the Delaware River, is a charming borough in Bucks County in eastern Pennsylvania.

This town is a terrific option when looking for places to visit on your inexpensive weekend getaways near NYC because it offers many attractions without breaking the bank.

Take in the beauty and serenity of nature at the 164-acre Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, home to more than 700 plant species native to the state in a mesmerizing natural setting.

Watch an enthralling live show at the Bucks County Playhouse, a historical performance venue that welcomed the likes of Angela Lansbury, Dick Van Dyke, and Grace Kelly.

Have a leisurely time strolling through Solebury Orchards, a farm where you can pick seasonal produce, like apples, flowers, cherries, peaches, blueberries, and so much more.

Travel back in time by touring the Parry Mansion Museum, a historical home constructed in 1784 featuring furniture from various periods.

Recommended Hotel: Ghost Light Inn

5. New Paltz

New Paltz, NY 12561 (845) 255-0604

New Paltz, founded in 1678, is a riverfront town in the southeastern region of Ulster County of New York.

Have a blast on your NYC area weekend getaways by driving about one hour and thirty minutes to this quaint town.

Enjoy activities like exploring Historic Huguenot Street, a historical district featuring seven stone houses and other structures dating back to 1705.

Go on an outdoor excursion by heading to the Mohonk Preserve as you enjoy taking pictures of the gorgeous landscape, skiing, horseback riding, snowshoeing, hiking, and so on.

Catch up with your friends at the Robibero Winery, founded in 2010, where you can enjoy wine tasting backed by picture-perfect scenery and a relaxed ambiance.

Immerse yourself in eye-catching artwork by touring the DM Weil Gallery and shopping for souvenirs at its gift shop.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn by Hilton New Paltz, NY

Related: Hotels in NYC

Hudson, NY 12534

Hudson, nicknamed the Friendly City, is the seat of Columbia County and rests on the banks of a river of the same name.

Prepare to go on your long weekend trips from NYC as you drive over two hours to this laid-back metropolis.

Here, you can enjoy a myriad of activities, such as antique shopping, tour specialty museums, discover notable landmarks, and so much more.

Get the chance to tour a stunning historical landmark by exploring the Olana State Historic Site, a 19th-century house museum featuring an Exotic Revival architectural design.

The FASNY Museum of Firefighting is another must-visit for museum buffs, exhibiting more than 300 years of firefighting history through art, artifacts, 60 engines, apparatus, and so on.

Spend time by the waterfront by visiting the Henry Hudson Riverfront Park, featuring grassy lawns, captivating river views, paved pathways ideal for biking, and many others.

You can also visit the Hudson Area Library to catch up on some reading and head to the Carrie Haddad Gallery to view artwork of varying forms and media.

Recommended Hotel: Nest Hudson

7. Phoenicia

Phoenicia, NY 12464

Phoenicia is a Shandaken hamlet in the Ulster County of New York, less than two hours and thirty minutes from New York City.

Enjoy year-round recreation as you go on one of the most memorable cheap vacations from NYC at Phoenicia.

Have a fun time outdoors at Woodland Valley State Park as you go camping, picnicking, hiking, fishing, taking pictures of the stunning landscape, and numerous others.

Spend time indoors by touring the Empire State Railway Museum, where you can view historic railroad equipment dating back to the 1960s.

Shop for unique finds by visiting the Mystery Spot Antiques, like vintage clothing, vinyl, old books, decor, and so much more.

Enjoy other activities like hiking through picturesque trails, watching a live show at a community theater, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Phoenicia Lodge

8. Shelter Island

Shelter Island, NY 11964-11965 (631) 749-0291

Shelter Island is a beautiful town in Suffolk County known for its gorgeous beaches.

Go on a cool overnight trip that you will remember for many years by driving less than three hours from New York City to Shelter Island.

Get a break from your daily routine as you explore the wonders of the Mashomack Preserve.

It encompasses over 2350 acres, featuring freshwater marshes, 11 miles of coastlines, mature oak woodlands, interlacing tidal creeks, and more.

Enjoy a fun cultural experience by visiting the Sylvester Manor Educational Farm, offering live concerts, cultural dances, interactive workshops, and more about the place, food, and culture.

Have a beachfront getaway by spending the day at Wades Beach, where you can relax on the shoreline, swim in the cool water, and have a lovely picnic.

Head to the Shelter Island Craft Brewery after a day of touring to sample refreshing beer crafted with locally sourced ingredients while bonding with your group.

Recommended Hotel: The Menhaden Hotel

9. The Berkshires

The Berkshires, MA

The Berkshires, a range of the Appalachian Mountains, is a highland region in northwest Connecticut and western Massachusetts, less than a three-hour drive from NYC.

It has a bustling tourism industry featuring tourist hotspots based on outdoor recreation, arts, and music.

Discover its many attractions, like Tanglewood, showcasing live classical music performances and annual festivals frequented by famous acts such as James Taylor and the Boston Pops.

View jaw-dropping masterpieces by American painter and illustrator Norman Perceval Rockwell by visiting the Norman Rockwell Museum, boasting the largest collection of his work worldwide.

Do you want to go on the ultimate weekend vacation with your travel buddies?

Then, check into the Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort , where you can enjoy seasonal activities like skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort

Related: Weekend Trips in New York

10. Cape May

Cape May, NJ 08204 (609) 884-9525

Cape May, incorporated in 1848, is a New Jersey resting on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, about a 2-hour and 30-minute to 3-hour and 30-minute drive from NYC.

It is perfect when searching for places to go for a weekend trip near you to enjoy a wide array of activities.

Go on an oceanfront vacation by spending time at Cape May Beach, boasting a sandy shoreline, seasonal lifeguards, and several dining choices within walking distance.

Consider visiting the Jersey Shore Alpacas when traveling with your little ones and get the chance to interact with friendly alpacas.

You can also go on a fantastic shopping spree at the Washington Street Mall, sip fine wine at the Willow Creek Winery, and tour historic sites like the 19th-century Cape May Lighthouse.

Recommended Hotel: Buttonwood Boutique Hotel

11. Philadelphia

Philadelphia , also known as Philly, is a Pennsylvanian metropolis and one of the largest cities in the United States.

It has much to offer you to guarantee a fun-filled time, like differently-themed sightseeing tours, spectacular dining establishments, and much more.

Prepare to be amazed by visiting the Philadelphia Museum of Art and viewing over 240,000 artworks of diverse forms, periods, and countries.

Get the chance to view one of the most famous prisons in the world by touring the Eastern State Penitentiary, dating back to 1829.

Do you want to visit a historical landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Then, explore Independence Hall, the birthplace of the US Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution.

You can also appreciate enthralling city views at One Liberty Observation Deck and watch exciting sports games at Citizens Bank Park.

Recommended Hotel: The Rittenhouse Hotel

Related: Fun Day Trips From Philadelphia

12. The Hamptons

The Hamptons Long Island, NY (631) 405-3902

The Hamptons, nestled on the East End of Long Island, is a section of seaside communities, including the towns of East Hampton and Southampton.

It is a superb option if you’re searching for places near NYC for vacation because it is less than two hours away.

Have a fun time touring historical sites, like the Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum, the fourth oldest lighthouse in the country, erected in 1796 and first lit in 1797.

Relax on a white sandy shoreline, bask under the sun, or swim in the cool water by enjoying a leisurely day at Coopers Beach.

Recommended Hotel: Southampton Inn

Related: Best Restaurants in Long Island

13. Montauk

Montauk, NY

Montauk is a village and census-designated place in the oceanfront town of East Hampton in the Suffolk County of New York.

If you want to go on a beach getaway, NYC has many fantastic options less than three hours away, like the many terrific coastlines at this hamlet.

Head to places like the Hither Hills State Park, boasting a pristine beach, a playground to keep your kids well-entertained, tables for a fun time picnicking, scenic nature trails, and lots more.

Have a more adventurous time in the ocean by visiting the Ditch Plains, a popular destination for surfing and bodyboarding.

Spend time at a more family-friendly coastline, like the white-sand Kirk Park Beach, boasting seasonal lifeguards, well-maintained shower facilities, a parking lot, and accessible toilets.

You can also tour historic sites like the Montauk Point Lighthouse, dine at waterfront eateries at Gosman’s Dock, and numerous others.

Recommended Hotel: Montauk Manor

14. Cooperstown

Cooperstown, NY 13326

Cooperstown, nestled on the banks of Otsego Lake, is the seat of Otsego County of New York.

Here, you can have an unforgettable time with your friends, loved ones, or significant other by touring various fascinating attractions.

Kick-start your tour by visiting the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, exhibiting baseball-related displays, like artifacts, over 250,000 photographs, moving images, and more.

Another must-see is the Farmers’ Museum, recreating rural life in the 1800s through workshops and over 24 historic buildings, like a farmstead, pharmacy, blacksmith, printing office, and so on.

Immerse yourself in stunning artwork by heading to the Fenimore Art Museum, a Neo-Georgian mansion from the 1930s displaying American Indian artifacts, landscape paintings, and folk art.

Visit the Glimmerglass State Park after touring diverse museums to enjoy camping, camping, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, hiking along scenic nature trails, biking, ice skating, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: The Railroad Inn

15. Newport

Newport, RI

Newport, nicknamed the City by the Sea, is a seaside metropolis on Aquidneck Island in the Newport County of Rhode Island.

Get a break from the Concrete Jungle of New York City by driving roughly four hours to Newport.

Have fun as you sign up for trolley tours, book a boat excursion, and try different guided excursions by local agencies.

Visit tourist hotspots like The Breakers, constructed in the 1890s, a Gilded Age mansion with a Neo-Italian Renaissance architectural design.

You can also go on a fantastic hike through the 3.5-mile Cliff Walk or have a memorable road trip along Ocean Drive.

Recommended Hotel: Marshall Slocum Inn

16. Bethlehem

Bethlehem, nicknamed Christmas City, is a riverfront city in Northampton and Lehigh in Pennsylvania.

Are you looking for nearby cities to explore on your NYC weekend getaways?

Then this charming metropolis is the ideal choice because it is less than two hours away.

Enjoy an immersive tour experience at SteelStacks, showcasing entertaining live shows, immersive festivals, film screenings, and much more.

Have a unique time sightseeing by visiting the National Museum of Industrial History, showcasing fascinating exhibits about the rich industrial past of the United States.

A must-visit during the holidays is the Christkindlmarkt, a magnificent Christmas market featuring hand-made products by talented local artisans and imported items from Germany.

Recommended Hotel: Wind Creek Bethlehem Casino & Resort

17. Long Beach Island

Long Beach Island, NJ (609) 361-3395

Long Beach Island, on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, is an 18-mile-long barrier island also known as the LBI Region, The Island, and LBI.

Before ending your NYC vacations, drop by this summer colony, less than a two-hour drive away.

You can have an adventurous time at Island Beach State Park as you go surfing, swimming, windsurfing, hiking, boating, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, bird watching, and so much more.

Have a blast with your family at the Fantasy Island Amusement Park, boasting thrilling rides, kid-friendly attractions, a vibrant arcade, and various dining choices selling tasty refreshments.

Beat the heat by allotting a few hours of your time at the Thundering Surf Water Park, featuring slides of varying lengths, splash areas for your little ones, a mini golf course, and pristine pools.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Manahawkin/Long Beach Island, an IHG Hotel

Boston , settled in 1625, is a bayfront metropolis and the state capital of Massachusetts.

It is roughly a four-hour drive from New York City and boasts an endless selection of fun-filled opportunities.

You can watch a thrilling sports game at Fenway Park, view magnificent artworks at the Museum of Fine Arts, and stroll through the beautifully landscaped Boston Public Garden.

Visit other attractions like the Boston Public Library, a stunning municipal library founded in 1852, and the Museum of Science, boasting interactive science exhibits and an indoor zoo.

Enjoy a unique and memorable time with your friends at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, a floating history museum with multimedia displays, an elegant tearoom, and live reenactments.

Have a blast doing other activities like exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, going on a shopping spree, spending time outdoors at a state park, and so much more.

Recommended Hotel: The Newbury Boston

19. Providence

Providence, resting on the banks of a river of the same name, is the most populous city and capital of Rhode Island, about a 3-hour and 30-minute drive from NYC.

Start your tour at the Roger Williams Park Zoo, home to at least 150 animals, including bald eagles, elephants, giraffes, anacondas, cheetahs, zebras, red wolves, rattlesnakes, and more.

The Rhode Island School of Design Museum of Art is a must-see for art enthusiasts because it displays an impressive collection of over 100,000 jaw-dropping pieces.

End the day by watching a captivating live show at the Providence Performing Arts Center, showcasing concerts, theatrical plays, Broadway acts, and more.

You can also enjoy leisurely activities like sitting by a fountain at the Historic Federal Hill and catching up on a good book at the stunning Providence Athenaeum.

Recommended Hotel: Graduate Providence

Mystic is a waterfront census-designated place in the New London County of Connecticut, about a two-hour and 40-minute drive from NYC.

It has numerous attractions to offer you, like the Mystic Seaport Museum, the largest maritime museum in the country, founded in 1932.

Discover the richness of marine life at Mystic Aquarium, housing beluga whales, Steller sea lions, African penguins, clownfish, harbor seals, sting rays, and so much more.

Explore the Mystic River Historic District to enjoy shopping, dining at various eateries, taking pictures backed by century-old buildings, and the like.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Mystic

21. Hudson Valley

Hudson Valley, NY

Hudson Valley, also known as Hudson River Valley, is a region in New York encompassing at least eleven counties.

Are you planning your getaways in NYC and looking for must-visit places?

Then, consider driving roughly two hours to Hudson Valley.

Take in alluring riverfront views by walking, jogging, or biking along the 1.28-mile-long Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park.

The New York State Museum is a terrific choice for museum buffs because it is one of the oldest state museums in the US and has several exhibits on NY history, nature, science, and art.

Snap jaw-dropping photos by visiting the New York State Capitol, boasting ornate chandeliers, stunning skylights, marble columns, a lavish interior, and more.

Recommended Hotel: Mirbeau Inn & Spa, Rhinebeck

22. The Poconos

The Poconos, PA (570) 844-2001

The Poconos, officially known as the Pocono Mountains, is a mountainous region in northeastern Pennsylvania, roughly two hours from NYC.

Treat yourself to a much-deserved vacation as you discover its many fabulous tourist hotspots.

You can tour historic sites like the Asa Packer Mansion, a house museum dating back to 1861 and featuring an Italianate Villa-inspired architectural design.

Your Poconos adventure is not complete without visiting the Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, a premier waterpark with 35 waterslides, an Olympic-sized pool, and a surf simulator.

Enjoy an immersive experience in the great outdoors by heading to the Seven Tubs Nature Area, where you can enjoy a fantastic hiking experience.

Have a fabulous shopping spree at the Crossing Premium Outlets, featuring shops like Ann Taylor, The Gap, Calvin Klein, Forever 21, Hot Topic, Coach, Nike, Adidas, and many others.

Recommended Hotel: Camelback Resort

23. Washington

Washington, incorporated in 1779, is a rural city in the Litchfield County of Connecticut, about two hours from NYC.

It is the ideal place to visit if you want a more laid-back tour experience away from large crowds or noisy streets.

Get the chance to learn about the lives of Native Americans by touring the Institute For American Indian Studies, a research center and museum that debuted in 1975.

Are you visiting in May or October?

Then, I recommend stopping by the Hollister House Garden, boasting well-landscaped gardens and a historic house constructed in the 1770s.

Go on an adventure indoors at Wigwam Escape, an award-winning escape room that offers an immersive experience of solving puzzles while learning about Native American history.

Recommended Hotel: The Litchfield Inn

24. North Fork

North Fork, NY

North Fork, nicknamed NOFO, is a 30-mile-long peninsula in Long Island in the northeast region of Suffolk County in New York.

Are you looking for places to include on your short trips from NYC to enjoy a beachfront weekend trip?

Then, consider driving roughly one hour and thirty minutes to North Fork.

It has many outstanding beaches for you to choose from, like the Orient Beach State Park on the eastern end, the Town Beach, famous for its glorious sunsets, and numerous others.

It is also the perfect destination for wine tasting because it boasts several wineries and vineyards, like the family-run Macari Vineyards and the award-winning Kontokosta Winery.

Recommended Hotel: Aqua by American Beech

25. Fire Island

Fire Island, NY

Fire Island, nestled in the southern shore of Long Island, is a barrier island in New York facing the Atlantic Ocean.

You can find it in Suffolk County, less than two hours from NYC.

Create memories to last a lifetime by spending time at Robert Moses State Park, where you can enjoy swimming, fishing, surfing, playing volleyball, picnicking, hiking, and so on.

Visit an iconic landmark by heading to the Fire Island Lighthouse, a 180-foot historical lighthouse that debuted in 1858.

Get the chance to view a rare ecological community by exploring the Sunken Forest, a maritime holly forest.

Head to its many beaches to enjoy other activities like parasailing, boating, sailing, sunbathing, kayaking, and much more.

Recommended Hotel: Clegg’s Hotel

26. Fahnestock State Park

1498 NY-301 Carmel Hamlet, NY 10512 (845) 225-7207

Fahnestock State Park, encompassing more than 14,000 acres, is a state park in the Dutchess and Putnam counties.

You can find it in the Carmel Hamlet of New York, about a 1-hour and 20-minute drive from NYC.

It has so much to offer you, like a swimming beach, trails for various purposes, designated campsites, and tons more.

It boasts a gorgeous landscape that changes with the seasons, featuring towering trees, two sparkling lakes, lush forests, and so on.

Some of the many activities you can try here are snowshoeing, skiing, camping, cross-country skiing, hiking, boating, fishing, birdwatching, hunting, and countless others.

Recommended Hotel: Hampton Inn Fishkill

27. Lake George

Lake George, NY 12845

Lake George, named after a lake of the same name, is a town in the Adirondack region and Warren County.

It is about a 3-hour and 30-minute drive from New York City.

Spend quality time with your friends, partner, or loved ones as you explore its fantastic tourist hotspots.

Have a memorable sightseeing tour by exploring the Fort William Henry Museum, a British fort from the 1700s, letting you experience what it was like during the French & Indian War.

You can also sip fine wine at the Adirondack Winery, go on family-friendly rides at the Magic Forest amusement park, and shop at the Outlets at Lake George.

Enjoy nature-related activities like hiking through scenic trails, trekking to majestic waterfalls, spending time at a park, and so on.

Recommended Hotel: Holiday Inn Resort Lake George, an IHG Hotel

28. Woodstock

Woodstock, NY 12498

Woodstock is a charming town in the Ulster County of New York, just over two hours from NYC.

Here, you can go on a much-needed quiet getaway alone or with your companions as you explore a handful of fascinating attractions.

Visit places like Woodstock Artists Association and Museum, showcasing various stunning pieces by local and regional artists in its five galleries.

Another terrific spot to explore is Tinker Street, lined with superb dining establishments, art galleries, boutique shops, and centuries-old buildings.

Recommended Hotel: Woodstock Way Hotel

29. The Catskills

The Catskills, NY

The Catskills, resting in the southeastern region of New York, is a physiographic province of the Appalachian Mountains, about a two-hour and 40-minute drive.

It is a well-known destination for vacationers seeking a weekend escape in a comfortable hotel with breathtaking nature views.

Check into places like the Hunter Mountain Resort, a highly acclaimed resort for skiing and snow tubing.

Go on a spectacular outdoor adventure at the New York Zipline Adventure Tours, featuring rope bridges, zip lines, a climbing tower, and tons more.

You can also enjoy other activities in the area, like going on a mesmerizing chair lift ride at the Windham Mountain Skyride and splashing in the calm waters of the Zoom Flume Water Park.

Recommended Hotel: Hunter Lodge, a Bluebird by Lark

30. Lancaster

Lancaster, PA (717) 291-4711

Lancaster, founded in 1729, is a history-rich metropolis in Pennsylvania and one of the oldest cities in the United States.

Go on one of the best weekend getaways from NYC for history buffs by driving less than three hours to Lancaster.

Tour attractions like the Amish Farm and House, a heritage museum that lets you learn about the daily life of the Amish community.

Another must-visit is President James Buchanan’s Wheatland, a Federal-style house museum formerly owned by the 15th president of the United States.

You can try other activities like watching a live show at the American Music Theatre or going on various rides at the Dutch Wonderland amusement park, aside from touring century-old sites.

Recommended Hotel: Eden Resort and Suites, BW Premier Collection

Related: Best Weekend Getaways From Washington DC

Map of The Best Weekend Getaways From NYC

30 Best Weekend Trips From NYC 2024

• Bear Mountain State Park
• Asbury Park
• Shelter Island
• The Berkshires
• Philadelphia
• The Hamptons
• Cooperstown
• Long Beach Island
• Hudson Valley
• The Poconos
• Fire Island
• Fahnestock State Park
• Lake George
• The Catskills

9 Easy Weekend Getaways From New York City—No Flights Required

Getting out of the city has never been easier—if only for a couple of days..

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While in the Catskills, swing by Minnewaska State Park for beautiful vistas and hiking trails.

Photo by Michelle Heimerman

Looking for a weekend getaway from the greater New York City area? Lucky for you, there are countless appealing destinations reachable via a quick train ride or road trip from the Big Apple, all with plenty of activities, hotels, and restaurants to fill a weekend. These East Coast escapes provide the respite needed—quiet nature walks, visits to local art galleries, a day trip here and there, fresh seafood dinners served in waterfront settings—and are all only a tank of gas away from Manhattan and Brooklyn. Read on for nine of our top picks for the best weekend getaways from New York City.

The laid-back beach town of Montauk is an ideal place for a relaxing getaway.

Photo by Lyndsey Matthews

1. Montauk, New York

• Distance : 2.5 by car or 3.5 hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : A laid-back beach getaway

A relaxed alternative to upscale beach towns in the Hamptons just to the west, Montauk is best known for its surf breaks, like the ones at Ditch Plains and the Terrace. So pack your swimsuit, sign up for a surfing lesson, and plan on eating as much seafood as you can.

What to do in Montauk

For breakfast, head to Montauk Bake Shoppe for its famous jelly croissant (coffee snobs can get their needs met at Left Hand Coffee ). Don’t miss the sunset views dinner at Duryea’s , a classic seafood shack right on the water overlooking Fort Pond Bay. Close out the night by drinking a beer or two with locals at Shagwong Tavern , a dive bar in the center of the village that’s been open since 1936.

Between meals, take a surf lesson or rent gear at Engstrom Surf , located at Marram Hotel. Beginners are in safe hands with the Engstrom siblings—Leif, Ariel, and Lexi are all world-renowned surfers—who will have you paddling out and attempting to catch waves in no time. If you prefer being on the water instead of in it, you can book a private charter for groups of anywhere from 2 to 100 passengers with Catamaran Mon Tiki for a sunset cruise departing from Star Island in Lake Montauk.

Where to stay in Montauk

Check in to Marram , a quiet beachfront hotel located right on the Terrace surf break. Open-air communal spaces—like courtyard firepits with complimentary s’mores and a guests-only pool deck overlooking the Atlantic—are ideal for those who want to spend the most time outside this summer.

Just off the traffic circle at the center of town—and still 100 feet from the ocean— Daunt’s Albatross has been operated by multiple generations of the Daunt family since 1977. The 24 guest rooms come with kitchenettes perfect for week-long stays as well as Parachute linens and towels, custom-made knotty alder furniture, indigo-hued textiles as art, and sleek flagstone floors. As part of a year-long redesign, the Daunt family acquired the restaurant across the street, the Bird , which now serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner seven days a week.

Read more: The perfect weekend in Montauk

Breakneck Ridge, located along the Hudson River between Beacon and Cold Spring, is a popular (but strenuous) Hudson Valley hike.

Photo by Jeff P./ Flickr

2. Hudson Valley, New York

• Distance : two hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : Scenic hikes and small towns filled with creative energy

For New Yorkers, the rolling hills and dense pine forests of the Hudson Valley offer a welcome escape from the chaos of the city—but the appeal of this beautiful valley lies well beyond its tree-lined hiking trails and inviting swimming holes. The small, postindustrial towns that line the Hudson River are buzzing with creative energy that make it an excellent choice for a weekend trip.

What to do in the Hudson Valley

The towns of Nyack, Saugerties, Kingston, and Hudson are all known for their antique scenes and selection of award-winning eateries and cafés. In Kingston, the homey Brunette wine bar and Savona’s Trattoria on Broadway warrant a detour, and in Hudson, don’t miss Feast and Floret , the reincarnated Fish and Game (which closed in 2020) that’s now an Italian restaurant serving dishes like rigatoncini alla norma and pork ribs with cipollini and Concord grape reduction. Also make time for an all-American feast at Phoenicia Diner , a 1960s establishment that’s been restored (and the menu spruced up) for modern enjoyment.

Absolutely do not sleep on the breweries, some of which host live music now and then. West Kill Brewing on a historic 127-acre dairy farm in the Catskills makes the kind of IPAs you want to bring home by the 30-pack. Woodstock Brewing , right down the street from Phoenicia Diner, has a creative tap list (Baby Dragon pale ale for the win) and treats you like family.

Those interested in spending the full weekend outdoors should pass through Phoenicia, the starting point for popular day hikes to Hunter Mountain and Kaaterskill Falls. Art-focused travelers should spend a day strolling through shops along Beacon’s Main Street before touring Dia Beacon , a 300,000-square-foot art museum housed in a former Nabisco box printing factory. Farther north, Woodstock makes for a fun afternoon of window shopping and dessert eating (go just for Peace, Love and Cupcakes and Bread Alone ).

Where to stay in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley and Catskill Mountains have so many cozy bed-and-breakfasts and contemporary boutique hotels that the hardest part of planning a trip to the region can be deciding where to sleep. A few of the most ogle-worthy accommodations in the bucolic upstate New York area include the Urban Cowboy Lodge in Big Indian, the DeBruce in Livingston Manor, Scribner’s Catskill Lodge in Hunter, Eastwind Hotel & Bar in Windham, the Graham & Co. in Phoenicia, Wm Farmer and Sons in Hudson, and the brand-new (as of 2022) Wildflower Farms in Gardiner, which was on AFAR’s list of the best new hotels in 2022.

• The ideal weekend in Hudson, New York
• Hotel review: Wildflower Farms Offers a High-End Escape for Nature-Starved New Yorkers

Family-run wineries, orchards, farms, and seafood shacks characterize Long Island’s North Fork.

Photo by Sarah Buder

3. North Fork, Long Island, New York

• Distance : two hours by car; three hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : Wine, food, and ocean vistas

Local wineries. Bucolic pastures. Farm-to-table food scenes. Oysters and lobster rolls up and down the coast. The North Fork feels worlds away from the concrete jungle of New York City , though it’s only 90 miles out to the northeastern peninsula.

What to do in the North Fork

A weekend on the North Fork isn’t complete without some winetasting. Long Island’s terroir has drawn comparisons to French wines—specifically France’s Bordeaux region—and Napa Valley in California because these wine countries share roughly the same latitude. Spend an afternoon exploring vineyards along the Long Island Wine Trail; Kontokosta Winery is the North Fork’s only waterfront winery, located in Greenport, and Castello di Borghese Vineyard and Winery is the region’s oldest vineyard.

To experience the area’s beautiful beaches, charter a boat with Peconic Water Sports and spend the day on the bay, or hop the ferry from downtown Greenport and relax on Shelter Island, a nature-filled refuge between the North and South Forks. Rent a bike on-property at Sound View and head toward Greenport’s main avenue to shop vintage clothes, vinyl records, and antique home decor at superbly curated boutique shops such as the Times Vintage and Lido . For lunch, head to Little Creek Oyster Farm & Market to enjoy shuck-your-own oysters, and don’t miss lunch or dinner at Salumeria Sarto , a tiny, 16-seat Italian restaurant on the waterfront that’s a Salumeria by day and Osteria by night.

Where to stay in the North Fork

Make for North Fork’s largest town, Greenport, which offers a laid-back alternative to flashier Long Island escapes like the Hamptons. Use Sound View Greenport as your base for the weekend—the revamped 1950s motel is now a 55-room waterfront hotel with a private beach, mixing New England modernist with coastal minimalism (think crisp, clean lines everywhere). Its sister property, Harborfront Inn at Greenport , is another family-friendly option.

Read more: The perfect weekend on Long Island’s North Fork

Be sure to visit Seventh Lake while in the Adirondacks—especially during the summertime.

4. Adirondacks, New York

• Distance : 4.5 hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : Exploring a state park filled with old-growth forests

With the everyday hustle and bustle of life in the metropolis, it’s easy to forget that a 6-million-acre state park —larger than Yellowstone , the Everglades, Glacier, and Grand Canyon National Parks combined—can be reached within the boundaries of New York State, just under five hours from Manhattan. The Adirondacks contain state-protected preserves filled with old-growth forests, waterfalls, glistening streams, and sparkling lakes, but because the area isn’t a national park, there’s no entrance fee.

What to do in the Adirondacks

Visitors can canoe or kayak on Lake George, a 32-mile-long body of water nicknamed “The Queen of American Lakes” in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains. The state park also has more than 2,000 miles of hiking trails that cater to every skill level, from low-key nature strolls to strenuous summit climbs up the Adirondack High Peaks.

Where to stay in the Adirondacks

For a true Adirondack experience, spend the weekend at a historic “Adirondack Great Camp .” During the early 20th century, industrial behemoths of the Gilded Age vacationed in the Adirondack Mountains, where they built mansion-like log cabins decorated with granite fireplaces and furniture crafted from branches. Today, you can stay in a number of these lodges, including The Point , a great camp built by William Avery Rockefeller on 75 acres of Saranac Lake shorefront nearly a century ago, and White Pine Camp , the one-time Summer White House of President Calvin Coolidge.

For an art and culture-filled getaway, head to the Berkshires, with a stay at the hotel Tourists (left) and a visit to museum MASS MoCA (right).

Photos by Lyndsey Matthews

5. Berkshires, Massachusetts

• Distance : 3.5 hours by car via the Taconic State Parkway
• Best for : An art-filled escape

Adventure and art enthusiasts will find their ideal getaway in the Berkshires, a mountainous area in western Massachusetts that, in recent years, has become a Northeastern epicenter of culture thanks to a rush of entrepreneurs transforming the region’s formerly derelict buildings into contemporary galleries and lodging.

What to do in the Berkshires

Stay the weekend in North Adams, a small city near the Vermont state line that’s home to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art (MASS MoCA) , a 19th-century factory mill complex turned modern center for world-class art. Roam more than 2,000 square feet of the museum’s sprawling exhibition space, then head outdoors to nearby Mount Greylock and traverse hiking trails that lead to the highest point in Massachusetts.

Where to stay in the Berkshires

Check into Tourists , a sleek, ecofriendly lodge opened in 2018 by John Stirratt (the bassist with the Chicago alt-rock group Wilco) in North Adams’s previously rundown Redwood Motel.

• The perfect weekend in the Berkshires
• Hotel review: How Wilco’s Bassist and His Friends Turned a Berkshires Motel Into Tourists, a Dream Summer Getaway

Nantucket isn’t the quickest weekend getaway from New York, but it’s worth the journey.

Photo by Shutterstock

6. Nantucket, Massachusetts

• Distance : six hours by car and ferry
• Best for : Eating-fresh seafood

Nantucket is an ideal destination for anyone who wants to eat (and eat, and eat), buy books , ride a bike to the beach, learn about the whaling industry , fly a kite, all while marveling at the iconic 1700s clapboard homes.

What to do in Nantucket

Head to The Nautilus , which has a location in Nantucket and one in Boston, for its stand-out cocktails and fusion menu (Korean and Hawaiian small plates all the way to Szechuan-style dandan noodles and a mind-blowing Peking duck). Its sister restaurant the Gaslight is popular among locals for its low-key setting, killer yakitori, and live music. Pick up sandwiches from Born and Bread for a beach picnic, or dig into a dish of oysters from Cru while sitting on the waterfront.

Whether or not you’re a history buff, the Whaling Museum is a must-do to learn the basics of Nantucket’s past—the Wampanoag people, notable abolitionists and suffragettes, 19th-century industry and transportation—as well as its legacy in the whaling industry. Private and self-guided walking tours of the island’s historic neighborhoods and architecture are also a highlight. Nantucket is also the perfect place to rent a bike—try Young’s Bicycle Shop on Broad Street or Nantucket Bike Shop —and follow any of these recommended bike paths .

Where to stay in Nantucket

Near Main Street, historic three-story brick mansion Jared Coffin House has gorgeous rooms that celebrate history-making women, like abolitionists Anna Gardner and Lucretia Coffin Mott. Greydon House has one of our favorite outdoor terraces though boutique hotel, Life House is a close contender with its outdoor firepit and relaxed, convivial vibe. Luxurious White Elephant has multiple residences and suites for families, while the Nantucket Hotel and Resort has a terrific pool and kids club.

Getting to Nantucket

From New York City, it’s a deceptively long trip by car: a five-hour drive to Hyannis on Cape Cod, where you pick up the high-speed ferry that gets you to Nantucket in an hour. From late April through early December, Tradewind Aviation runs scheduled flights between Nantucket Memorial Airport and Teterboro, New Jersey; and White Plains, New York. (Private charters are available between Nantucket and Farmingdale and Boston, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.) It takes about an hour and costs $875.

Greenwich boasts four beaches on the Long Island Sound: Greenwich Point, Byram Beach, Island Beach (Little Captain’s Island), and Great Captain’s Island.

Photo by James Kirkikis/Shutterstock

7. Greenwich, Connecticut

• Distance : one hour by train from Grand Central
• Best for : A relaxing coastal getaway

Only an hour by train from Manhattan, Greenwich, Connecticut, is commonly noted as the “Gateway to New England.” For weekend visitors, the affluent community offers many of the cosmopolitan comforts found in New York City (high-end shopping, spas, and upscale restaurants), but unlike the city, Greenwich’s hot spots are set among the green landscapes and relaxing vibe of coastal Connecticut.

What to do in Greenwich

Don’t leave Greenwich without trying fresh seafood at L’Escale , a palatial waterfront restaurant inside the upscale hotel, Delamar Greenwich Harbor . If shopping stays high on your travel agenda, head to the luxury boutiques along the central Greenwich Avenue (nicknamed “the Ave”) and browse the latest trends at stores such as Hermès and Saks. For more laid-back R&R, visit nearby recreational areas like Byram Shore Park and Great Captain’s Island , or head to Greenwich Point Park to enjoy a long sunset stroll alongside the sweeping Long Island Sound.

Where to stay in Greenwich

Book a room in the waterside Delamar Greenwich Harbor hotel; some guest rooms have balconies overlooking the harbor. Or check-in to a luxurious suite at the J House Greenwich . Both hotels are excellent options for a wellness moment, with full-service spas on site.

The quaint seaside town of Mystic is about so much more than pizza.

8. Mystic, Connecticut

• Distance : three hours by car; four hours by Amtrak from Penn Station
• Best for : Pizza, beer, and learning about the town’s nautical history

Even if you’re not obsessed with the 1988 Julia Roberts rom-com focused on Mystic Pizza and set in Mystic itself, come for the same riverside charm that delighted screenwriter Amy Jones. Historic downtown Mystic looks every part a New England village, picture pretty with clapboard homes and storefronts, colonial-era steeples, and old sea captains’ residences. It’s the kind of family-friendly getaway where you’ll slow down, sip cider from a 19th-century mill, check out the iconic aquarium, and eat. And eat. And eat.

What to do in Mystic

Don’t feel guilty about multiple stops at Sift Bake Shop , co-owned by pastry chef Adam Young, a Food Network “Best Baker in America”—or that you’re chasing the sticky bun with an apple cider doughnut and hot cider a short drive away at B. F. Clyde’s Cider Mill . The last steam-powered cider mill in the United States (c. 1881), B.F. Clyde’s feels like a time warp. Make a reservation at Oyster Club or Shipwright’s Daughter for a fancier dinner out without the kids. And, of course, eat a slice or two at memorabilia-heavy Mystic Pizza .

Spend a morning exploring the locally owned shops in downtown Mystic ( Trove Men’s Provisions feels like an old-school haberdashery and Hang the Moon focuses on women-made, ecofriendly, and ethical gifts). Don’t sleep on the town’s most iconic activities: The Olde Mistick Village is fun for the family, especially the year-round Sofia’s Mystical Christmas shop and Deviant Donuts. Nearby Mystic Aquarium is a standout with beluga whales, sharks, African penguins, seals, sea lions, and more—though we imagine we had you at beluga whales.

Where to stay in Mystic The Whaler’s Inn has more than 150 years of heritage—one building was the residence of a shipbuilding family in the 1800s, another was an upscale hotel that opened in 1861. Following an elegant renovation in 2018, the present-day Whaler’s Inn feels like a de facto gathering spot for visitors—centrally located in downtown Mystic, with a wraparound porch and big picture windows overlooking the river. It also has family-friendly rooms, including a suite with bunk beds for the kids.

Public street art in Philadelphia is so widespread that the city has been nicknamed “the mural capital of the United States.”

Photo by Jon Bilous/Shutterstock

9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

• Distance : 1.5 hours by train from Penn Station
• Best for : Culture, history, and food in a smaller city

It may not seem like much of a “getaway” to travel from one urban destination to another, but the City of Brotherly Love offers plenty of perks for culture-seeking New Yorkers looking to spend a few days in a slightly smaller city.

What to do in Philadelphia

Philly is an exciting food city, offering dishes well beyond the beloved cheesesteak (although plenty of iconic establishments serve the namesake dish). Sample fine foods in the Reading Terminal Market , where stalls sling everything from cured meats to fresh cheeses and mouth-watering desserts. Or book a table at top-rated Philly restaurants such as Laurel in East Passyunk or Zahav in Society Hill.

For history lovers, there’s no end to the landmarks and significant buildings on offer in Philly, such as the iconic Liberty Bell with its infamous crack or Independence Hall , where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed in the late 1700s. Museum enthusiasts should definitely plan to visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art , but the jewel in Philly’s cultural crown is undoubtedly its vibrant street art scene. Don’t leave the city without taking a Mural Arts Philadelphia tour to view buildings that have been transformed by imaginative murals.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Located on the top 12 floors of the Comcast Center, the Four Seasons Hotel Philadelphia has a 60th-floor Sky Lobby with sweeping city views, plus 219 serene guest rooms. For something trendier, try the Notary Hotel , which offers luxury lodgings in the former City Hall Annex, or Fitler Club , a private-club-meets-hotel with an unmatched spa.

This article originally appeared online in 2016; it was most recently updated in August 2023, to include current information. Additional reporting by Lyndsey Matthews and Erika Owen.

• Weekend Getaways

12 Unique and Exciting Weekend Getaways Within 5 Hours of NYC

Choose your own adventure: stargazing, forest bathing, foraging, and more..

Updated on 1/24/2023 at 5:37 PM

While New York City’s hottest clubs and weekly crop of restaurant openings do their part in getting us through the season, it’s definitely also a great time of year to consider a city escape.

And if booking air travel and heading to the airport is just too much to bear right now, we’ve got the next best thing instead: a weekend getaway within five hours that’s accessible by public transport or a road trip with your squad.

Whether you want to simply relax and eat at a culinary farm retreat in Connecticut or go off the grid on a sensory snowshoe hike through the Adirondacks, there’s an excursion on this mid-winter survival list for you. Here are 12 unique and exciting weekend getaways within five hours of NYC for every type of traveler.

Best Stargazing Getaway

Cherry Spring State Park, PA Designated a Gold Level Dark Sky Park by the International Dark Sky Association, Cherry Springs State Park’s Astronomy Observation Field is one of the best places on the planet to take in 365-degree views of the night sky.

As the area is buffered by Susquehannock State Forest, far from any urban light pollution, glowing clusters of constellations in the Milky Way, planets, and astronomical phenomena are visible with the naked eye and are all the more dazzling in winter, a prime stargazing season due to low humidity and fewer daylight hours.

You don’t need to be a serious Milky Way Chaser , but a few photo tricks can help maximize capturing the celestial world. A little prep work to learn how to take night shots with your phone goes a long way, and we recommend packing: a tripod, 7x50 power binoculars, and a comfortable chair. Also, check the Astronomer’s forecast to ensure clear skies ahead, download the Star Walk 2 app to see constellations in 3D, and find out about local Astronomy Club happenings in the area with NASA’s Night Sky Network .

While Cherry Spring State Park’s campground and nearby KOA campground is only open April to October, you can rent a campervan and stay in the parking lot, stargaze on the observation field all night, or book the Gail Dupont Guesthouse located twenty minutes up the road. By car : 4 hours, 30 minutes

Best Foraging and Farm-to-Table Getaway

Norfolk, CT To fulfill your farm-life fantasies, head to Husky Meadows Farm , a dreamy 300-acre working organic farm, CSA, and all-inclusive inn in Litchfield County. The breathtaking bucolic grounds, extensive walking trails, and luxurious suites alone are worth the trip, but the main draw is Seed & Spoon, an immersive culinary retreat.

Launched in 2021 by culinary director Tracy Hayhurst, the program offers visitors a peek into the complex systems and relationships involved in organic farming and the farm-to-table ethos. When here, guests can harvest produce, take pasta and pastry making classes, and forage for edibles including wild alliums like ramps and garlic chives, and mushrooms such as black trumpet and chanterelle. By car : 2 hours, 20 minutes

Best Getaway for Ice Bath and Sauna Lovers

Hawley, PA At The Lodge at Woodloch , a 150-acre adults-only hotel in the Poconos, there’s no cheesy decor or heart-shaped tubs. Instead, revel in private verandas with views of Lake Teedyuskung and an unforgettable experience at America’s first-ever Snow Room, which provides a gentler style of cold immersion therapy. Here’s the plan: start at the Himalayan Salt Sauna before transitioning to the Snow Room for its 23 degree temps and real compact dry snow flurries. The process maximizes the health benefits of the hot to cold contrast therapy by helping to strengthen the immune system when it encourages blood vessels to dilate and constrict.

Use of the spa facilities, including an indoor heated pool, hydro massage waterfall, and outdoor heated whirlpool, are part of the all-inclusive overnight package. The hotel also offers a wide range of daily classes, such as an intro to fat tirebiking, ukulele lessons, an edible and medicinal plant walk with a certified herbalist, mocktail (and cocktail) classes, and a sunrise photography walk. By public transit :  Shortline bus 3 hours from Port Authority to Hawley, where the Lodge will shuttle you to the hotel for a $50 fee. By car : 2 hours

Best Electric Vehicle-Friendly Getaway

The Berkshires, MA As more states better accommodate the growing electric vehicle boom, EV road trips from New York City have found their elusive groove. At the top of our destination list to plug in (and unplug) is the Berkshires in Western Massachusetts, known for world class museums, year-round hiking, and food-centric towns. Some of the most popular places in the region counted among the 50 plus charging stations include the Norman Rockwell Museum ; Kripalu Center for Yoga (and nearby Inn at Stockbridge ); Catamount Ski Resort just south of Great Barrington; and The Guest House at Field Farm and The Clark Art Institute in Williamstown featuring cross-country skiing, sledding, or snowshoeing across its 140-acre campus, open 24 hours.

In North Adams, home to America’s first scenic byway, The Mohawk Trail , first opened in 1914, a high concentration of public EV stations means never worrying about running low on battery. After charging up at MASS MoCA and riding your own personal pink rollercoaster on EJ Hill's  Brake Run Helix exhibit, peruse used vinyl at Belltower Records , order a Tempeh “BLT” at The Break Room at the innovative  Greylock Works complex inside a former cotton-spinning mill, and spend the rest of the day and night at river-perched TOURISTS , a modern spin on the classic American motor lodge. In addition to being EV-friendly, the hotel harbors a 30-acre patchwork of beautiful walking trails, musical sculptures, and open meadows designed by the same landscape architects who did museums like The Clark and Parrish Art Museum.

Whether you stay in one town or branch out, the Berkshires is an antidote to the fast life and is the kind of getaway that allows you to fully relax and recharge, quite literally. By car : 2 hours, 45 minutes

Best Under-the-Radar Historic Getaway

Hampton Bays, NY On the East End of Long Island, travel back to pre-Revolutionary times at the newly opened Canoe Place , the site of America’s oldest inn, circa 1697. The beautifully restored resort started as a trading station in the 1600s and later became an inn that hosted Revolutionary War soldiers, presidents, and celebrities like Lucille Ball, Cary Grant, Albert Einstein, and John D. Rockefeller.

Overlooking the Shinnecock Canal, Canoe Place has 20 guest suites, five cottages, an outdoor pool, and the Good Ground Tavern restaurant, serving locally caught seafood like Pan-Seared Local Bass or Lobster Roll Crostini. Between the exterior giving roaring 20s public bathhouse vibes and the vintage-meets-modern touches—think Gustavian cabinets, fiddleback chairs, sleek rolling pin beds, and Vauxhall Gardens-inspired carpets—a night here feels like an escape within an escape.

A vivid lobby painting, Chief Pretty Eagle, by Choctaw-Cherokee artist Jeffrey Gibson , pays homage to the original Southampton inhabitants, the Shinnecock tribe. The nearby Shinnecock Indian Nation’s Cultural Center & Museum and the Roger Memorial Library 's historical collection are great places to learn about the South Fork’s little known past and the legacy of its people . Five minutes east, the historically designated Southampton African American Museum preserves the Black history of Southampton and shines light on many unknown famous Black inventors. In the 1940s, amidst the Great Migration, a carpenter and barber named Emmanuel Seymore purchased the land as a barber shop and beauty parlor, where it became a gathering place for the local African American community. By public transit : LIRR from Penn Station to Hampton Bays in 2 hours. By car : 1 hour, 30 minutes

Best Hygge Getaway

Big Indian, NY Similar to its sister properties in Windham and Lake Placid , the newly opened Eastwind Oliverea delivers as a homey dreamscape imparting long-lasting impressions (and connections)—be it with fellow hygge lovers, nature, or yourself. Here, the 40-acre sanctuary is a short walk from the McKenley Hollow Trail in 33,500-acre Big Indian Wilderness and offers 30 rooms, each with terraces and no televisions.

Accommodations range from hillside A-Frame cabins to Lushna Suites along the soothing Esopus Creek. After a day on the slopes at nearby Belleayre Mountain , unwind on the property’s sauna before grabbing a hot toddy at the scene-stealing bar with vibrant wallpaper covered in ferns and owls peeking out from behind mirrors. It’s here where you may also find the hotel’s co-owner, Bjorn Boyer, doing an impromptu whiskey tasting while sharing stories about the various vintage pieces that make the main lodge such a unique, inviting space. Settle in for dinner at Dandelion (open Wednesday to Saturday) for season-conscious dishes like Finnish Steelhead Trout Chowder and house-made Cavatelli with wild mushrooms, then gather around the outdoor fire pit with s’mores before going back inside for board games by the indoor fire. By car : 2 hours, 20 minutes.

Best Giant Outdoor Playground Getaway

Ghent, NY Pronounced “Art, oh my!” Art Omi ’s 120-acre Sculpture & Architecture Park is a beautiful love letter to art, with more than 60 works strewn throughout the rolling grounds—including on the river, in the woods, and atop a grassy ridge. At one of the coolest playgrounds you’ll ever encounter, you can shoot hoops at Alexandre Arrechea’s towering Orange Functional piece (basketballs are provided), play soccer on the little field beside Beverly Pepper’s Paraclete pyramid structure, or reflect on this wild and precious life through the robotically cut sun gauge in Steven Holl’s Obolin.

The park is open til dusk and is free to roam, although donations are suggested. For picnic fixings, pick up a gourmet sandwich at Talbott & Harding in Hudson or a Babka Bun and coffee at Bartlett House in Ghent. By public transit : Amtrak to Hudson Station, then call a cab for the rest of the 10 miles to Art Omi. By car : 2 hours, 30 minutes

Best Getaway for Bird Lovers

Amenia, NY To gaze into the haunting hazel eyes of a Steppe Eagle or have a spectacled owl wink at you while it rests on your gloved fist is to experience an electrifying sense of oneness with the natural world.

At the 400-acre Troutbeck Hotel in upstate New York, guests can book a falconry excursion amidst the hotel’s pristine woods with TC Bird Management , an organization that rehabilitates rescued birds of prey. You’ll learn fascinating facts about raptors and falconry, an ancient practice believed to have originated in Mongolia 3,000 years ago, and get a better grasp of how vital predatory species are to a healthy ecosystem. After the winged wonderland, warm up by the fire while flipping through Sibley bird guidebooks in the hotel library. Troutbeck also offers programming with the Sharon Audubon Society , less than a 10-minute drive from the hotel. Don’t leave without a few bird postcards by Rex Brasher from the gift shop. By public transit : Metro-North to Wassaic Station for 2 hours, then call a cab for the 10-minute ride to the hotel. By car : 2 hours

Best Year-Round Family-Friendly Getaway

Hamburg, NJ For many parents, it’s rare to return home from a family trip without needing a real vacation. But nestled in the rolling green mountains of the Sussex Skylands, 47 miles from Manhattan, grownups can have just as much relaxation and fun as the kids at Crystal Springs Resort & Spa .

The 4,000-acre destination heralds a new activity for every day of the year, but one weekend will do the trick. Although your family may find itself happily lingering in one place—the 10,000 square foot indoor tropical biosphere pool complex, complete with an underground aquarium, 140-foot water slide, and grotto-like Jacuzzi is especially enticing—there are too many tempting pursuits to ignore. Choose from rock climbing, axe throwing, a magician show, arcade lounge, and educational wildlife presentations at the amphitheater, featuring animals like sugar gliders and red-necked wallabies. Additional outdoor diversions include snow tubing and skiing at Mountain Creek , cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at nearby High Point State Park, and the hotel’s on-site Glice skating rink. By car : 1 hour

Best Forest Bathing Getaway

Lake Placid, NY The Adirondacks in eastern upstate New York offers some of the state’s most majestic scenery, making it an ideal place for absorbing the restorative benefits of Shinrin-yoku , the Japanese-pioneered art of “forest bathing.”

Local outfitter Adirondack River Walking offers Forest Bathing (from $15/pp) and Sensory Snowshoeing experiences (from $20/pp, snowshoes included) that take visitors on a two-hour (kid-friendly) tour around Dewey Mountain or Heaven Hill Trails in Saranac Lake. Tap into the healing power of the wilderness as you explore the environment’s myriad textures and rich scents while gulping down the fresh forest air, all of which can help improve mental health, spark creativity, and reduce cognitive fatigue.

Especially on a bright winter day, expect to feel a deep sense of calm and lightness as the ecotherapy works its magic. Moving among the tall trees, the balsam fir, sugar maples, yellow birch, and eastern hemlock, you’ll hear the wind, the soft crunch of snow underfoot, and the echoing drills of woodpeckers and chickadee-dee-dees—no electronics allowed to distract you. Best of all, you’ll learn the tools to be able to do your own self-guided sensory activities on your next walk in the woods.

Stay in tune with nature by booking a stay at one of Lake Placid’s new nature-centric hotels, like Lake House , Eastwind Lake Placid , Bluebird Lake Placid , and the Grand Adirondack Lodge . By car : 4 hours, 45 minutes

Best Getaway for Oyster Lovers

Rhode Island If you’ve ever been to the Ocean State, then you know that in addition to great surf and Gilded Age glamour, Rhode Island is famous for its briny bites of joy. Whether you prefer them raw or cooked, tasting the sea this way always brings about a pleasurable cesura. And because the colder the water, the sweeter the oyster, there’s no time like the present to enjoy the humble mussel than with an oyster-infused road trip.

Home to over three dozen varieties of oysters, the state is so fond of their beloved bivalve—and proud to celebrate its growing sustainable aquaculture industry—there’s even a  Rhode Island Oyster Trail for discovering the best restaurants, oyster bars, and farms. For an all-you-can-slurp affair, plan a visit around the Newport’s Seafood Wine Festival in February, the  Oyster and Chowder Festival in May,or the Ocean State Oyster Festival in Providence in October. For a pond-to-plate adventure, take an oyster farm tour with Matunuck Oyster Bar , where you can learn about the harvesting process before tucking into a plate of fresh ones with a glass of bubbly. Enjoy buck-a-shuck at Greenwich Bay Oyster Bar , a half price raw bar at Bristol Oyster Bar , and $1 Mansion Oyster Hour at The Vanderbilt's live shucking station. At the Coast Guard House in Narragansett, you’ll feel like you’re floating on the ocean at the newly launched oyster dinner , or head out to Block Island Oyster Bar and Grill for the ferry-worthy Oysters Thermidor. In Providence, throw back Walrus & Carpenter oysters at Bayberry Garden , and sip cocktails made with Ostreida , the country’s first oyster-infused vodka, at Industrious Spirit Company’s tasting room. We hate to haul out the old cliché, but in the Ocean State, the world really is your oyster. By public transit : Amtrak to Providence in 3.5 hours. By car : 3 hours to Providence. Add another 15 minutes to get to Newport.

Best Getaway for Architecture and Design Aficionados

New Canaan, CT At first, New Canaan seems no different than any other affluent suburb in Connecticut, with its stately colonial homes, sprawling lawns, and charming Main Street. But take a closer look and you’ll discover that this Fairfield County community is home to more than 100 mid-century modern structures pioneered by the world-famous group, the Harvard 5 , which includes members Marcel Breuer, who lived in New Canaan , and Philip Johnson, who designed The Glass House .

At the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society , the new Modern New Canaan initiative showcases the iconic architects and their local masterpieces, as well as the prized local homes within the movement like The Celanese House by Edward Durrell Stone, The Chivvis House by Eliot Noyes , and The Boissonnas House by Philip Johnson. With their open, nature-centric plans that perfectly capture the light in every room, the Bauhaus-inspired structures effortlessly fit the landscape and gleam from within. Tap into the source of enlightenment with a trip to the area’s celebrated outdoor spaces, like the New Canaan Land Trust , Waveny Park Conservancy , and New Canaan Nature Center .

Finally, no trip to New Canaan is complete without a visit to one of our favorite architecture and design getaways , Grace Farms , an 80-acre sustainably-built sanctuary. Centered around the River structure, check out this curvaceous marvel of glass, concrete, steel, and wood that echoes the design sensibilities of modernist architecture. By public transit : Metro-North to New Canaan station for 1 hour, 20 minutes. Take an Uber to reach some of the destinations farther afield, such as Grace Farms and The Glass House. By car : 1 hour

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The 21 Best Spring Weekend Getaways from NYC

Spring in New York is something special; the trees and shrubs in the parks have their first leaves, there are flowers to be seen everywhere, and the weather is finally starting to warm up. There are many wonderful destinations near New York City that are worth visiting in the spring.  On my list of the best spring weekend getaways from NYC, I will show you my personal favorites. The selection ranges from city trips to relaxing days in the mountains of New York State. With so many options, there is definitely something for you!

You'll also love this:

• The 27 Best Day Trips from NYC
• COMPLETE GUIDE: Spring in New York
• The 9 Best Road Trips from New York

For all of the spring weekend getaways originating from NYC, I’ll show you the top attractions you won’t want to miss. Have fun!

Want to see more travel inspiration: here you can find all day trips from New York  and the best summer getaways from NYC .

21 Amazing Day Trips and Weekend Getaways From NYC in Spring

Brooklyn botanic garden: a perfect spring family day trip in nyc.

The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is the natural wonder of New York City and is especially popular during the cherry blossom season. Many people come to the botanic garden in Brooklyn just to see this natural spectacle. This place always has a special aura to it, as there is something wonderful blossoming here in any season. It’s located right inside Prospect Park in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

Day Trip to Boston from New York in Spring

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.

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

• 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 .

Just Amazing: This 2-Days Trip to Niagara Falls

If you are in New York in spring 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 .

Insider Weekend Getaway from NYC in Spring: 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 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Things to do in Spring 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

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

Among The Best Spring Weekend Getaways near NYC: the White Mountain National Forest

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

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.  
• Rent a rustic cabin at one of the many sites throughout the forest.  
• Conway scenic railway
• Polar Caves Park
• Cranmore Mountain Resort

American Dream with Entertainment Complex: A Shopping Trip from NYC

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 (2 days) to Washington D.C., Philadelphia & Amish Country

This tour is one of my favorite spring family day trips from NYC. It 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 spring 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

Martha's Vineyard: My Favorite Family Spring Weekend Getaway from NYC

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.

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

• 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

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

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 spring 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

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, 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.

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 To Washington D.C.: One of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC in Spring

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City and a wonderful destination when you are looking for Spring Weekend Getaways near NYC. You can do it by your own or check out this guided bus tour. The bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill.

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

Central Park: a perfect Weekend Getaway in New York in Spring

Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility. Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.

And it’s perfect when you are looking for a weekend getaway in spring! Central Park is also a wonderful place that I mention in my ultimate guide to Staycation Hotels in New York .

Phoenicia: A Great Spring Day Trip from NYC for Families in the Catskill Mountains

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 spring and 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

A Spring Day Trip from NYC: 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.

Things to do in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York in the spring-time

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

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

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

New Haven: A Hidden Spring Weekend Getaways near NYC

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.

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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.

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

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

Ocean City: One of the Best Spring Weekend Getaways from NYC with Kids

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.

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

• Grab a snack and enjoy ocean views 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

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.

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

• 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

Sleepy Hollow: Weekend Getaway to one of the Most Haunted Towns in America

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!

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

Hamilton Township, NJ: A Weekend Getaway for Everyone

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. 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

More Travel Inspiration

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

The 24 Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC – The COMPLETE Guide

The Best Fall Weekend Getaways From NYC + Day Trips

The 19 Best Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

The 46 Best Things to Do in Spring in NYC 2024

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

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15 Best Day Trips From NYC To Take This Winter

While we love NYC, it's okay to want to have a little escape! These beautiful day-cations spots are only a quick ride from NYC!

Winter is here , and that means it’s time to get away! While we adore our beloved New York City, there are so many great day trip spots right near the Big Apple that are lovely to visit. Located within just a few hours of the city, these spots make the perfect day-cation! From ski resorts to winter beach getaways, there are tons of amazing things you can experience, making it the perfect little escape!

Here are our 15 favorite New York day trips that are only a few hours away!

1. Camelback Mountain, PA

Located in Pennsylvania, Camelback Mountain is an awesome place to go when it snows. It’s a great location for new skiers as they have a lot of easy trails to follow, so great for your first time or if bringing kids. It’s only an hour and a half outside of the city, so if you head out early enough, you can be back just around dinner time.

Distance from NYC: 1.5 hours

2. Beacon, NY

Beacon is a quaint little town up in the Hudson Valley area of New York. It’s awesome to visit all year round, but is one of the few places that still has quite a bit to do during the winter. They are known for their whiskey distilleries and their glass blowing art, and you can even take a glass blowing glass while you’re there! Their main street has lovely little shops, perfect for a little shopping spree.

3. Montauk Point, Long Island East End

Way out on the very tip of Long Island lies Montauk Point. In the winter, you’ve got some great snowshoeing and hiking. There’s also a famous lighthouse that you can climb. The view you are rewarded with is outstanding and well worth the effort; and if you need to warm up, there are a couple of indoor spas to unwind in.

Distance from NYC: 2.5 hours

4. Hunter, NY

Hunter Mountain is a very popular ski resort in upstate New York, and you don’t need a car to get there. There’s a round-trip ski-bus that leaves from the city that with take you up to the mountain, so it’s an easy trip to make. If skiing isn’t your thing, don’t fret. They have zip lining, snowboarding, and plenty of indoor activities at their main lodge.

Distance from NYC: 2 hours 30 minutes

5. Saratoga Springs, NY

A bit further north, Saratoga Springs has lovely bed and breakfasts and other old historical lodging to enjoy during the cold months. The Roosevelt Baths & Spa are a great spot to warm up in hot baths and get a great massage. You might not want to come back to the city.

Distance from NYC: 3 hrs 15 minutes

6. Cold Spring, NY

This cute little town 50 miles north of NYC is filled with history, restaurants, and antique shops. During warmer days there are gorgeous hikes to explore, but during the winter it’s a charming small town with beautiful decorations and a cozy Main Street.

Distance to NYC: 1 hr 30 minutes

7. New Paltz, NY

We highly suggest visiting this legendary resort just an hour and a half north of NYC! The gorgeous Mohonk Mountain House offers various activities, including public hikes, yoga sessions, stargazing outings, and a whole lot more. There’s also lots of history and culture in this town too, which is evident in attractions like the Historic Huguenot Street and DM Weil Gallery . The best part? No overnight stay is required (at Mohonk Mountain House) so it’s perfect for a day’s getaway.

Distance from NYC: 1 hr 45 minutes

8. Windham, NY

For our winter sports fans, Windham, NY in the Catskills is a perfect get away. The iconic Windham Mountain Resort is gorgeous and the area is just as stunning during the winter. The mountain boasts over 54 trails, and the village and resort includes an indoor golf course, yoga studios, spa packages, and numerous restaurants. There’s something for everyone! This mountainous getaway is perfect for a quick day or a whole weekend.

Distance from NYC: 3 hours

9. Asbury Park, NJ

While Asbury Park in New Jersey is typically one of our favorite summer destinations, there’s very much things to do during winter too! Of course the colder variatios of the boardwalk, beaches, and bars exist, but you can also challenge your friends to some competition at the Silverball Retro Arcade , catch a show at The Stone Pony, and shop at the Asbury Park Bazaar!

Distance from NYC: 1 hr 30 minutes

10. The Poconos, PA

Luckily, the Poconos Mountains region is massive, meaning there’s tons of options of where to spend a day. Some of our favorites include the Great Wolf Lodge or Kalahari Resort , which both include indoor waterparks. Of course, you can’t scoff off the nature areas of the region too. There’s snowcapped mountains that are perfect for skiing, snowboarding, snow sliding, and snowshoeing. Or if you want to just take in the breathtaking mountains, frozen waterfalls, and winding rivers, you can do that too.

11. Governors Island , NYC

Governors Island, the 172-acre lush green island in between Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, provides the perfect winter getaway in the middle of the city. All you have to do is take a ferry from either the Battery Maritime Building in Manhattan or the Red Hook/Atlantic Basin Ferry Terminal in Brooklyn and you’ll be whisked away in no time (just make a reservation in advance).

In terms of wintry things to do, there’s the cozy QC NY Spa, winter dog days, a hammock grove, bike rentals, and ice sculpture show on February 3, and more! Learn more about the island here .

Distance from NYC: 10 minutes

12. The Berkshires, MA

The Berkshires in Western Massachussets are a great winter day trip, which can completed in 3 hour journeys each way. There’s so much to do here as well. Starting with wintry activities, you can ski at Jiminy Peak, Butternut, Catamount, and Bousquet mountains, snowshoe across white-blanketed fields, and hike to your heart’s content . But, there’s other great cultural activities too… like the Massachusetts Museum Of Contemporary Art , Norman Rockwell Museum , Barrington Stage Company , and more!

13. East Hampton, NY

While Many New Yorkers flock to The Hamptons in the summer, it’s just as gorgeous in the winter. East Hampton in particular is one of the most gorgeous beaches and villages on the top of Long Island. After you check out Main Beach and Georgica Beach , treat yourself to some wintry activities like spa treatments at Baker House Spa, strolling through the Parrish Art Museum , and more! Find more things to do here .

14. Warwick, NY

Warwick is right in the heart of NY’s stunning Hudson Valley. With beautiful parks, farm-to-table brunch, unique boutique and antique shops (say that five times fast!), it’s the perfect little weekend day trip from NYC. It’s an hour and a half car ride, or tack on an extra hour to take the bus there from Port Authority.

15. Woodstock, NY

Although a name that draws imaginations of music festivals and tie-dye, Woodstock is full of things for just about everyone! We suggest a winter hike up Overlook Mountain , one of the most notable in the region, and then finishing the day walking through the town full of local shops and cute food vendors. You might even be lucky enough to catch a weekend flea market! The town is perfect for the hippies at heart and still oozes some of those 1960s flavors to this day.

Distance from NYC: 2 hours 15 minutes

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The 31 Coziest Winter Weekend Getaways from NYC

Byo-hot toddy.

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Sure, there’s something fabulous about hopping on a plane to the nearest tropical destination as soon as temperatures drop. But there's also magic in embracing our surroundings—and we've got plenty of local gems that offer winter wonderland escapes replete with the coziest of hygge vibes . These 31 charming winter weekend getaways from NYC are just that, and they are all within a few hours’ drive of the city.

The 27 Quaintest Airbnbs in the Northeast

1. The Lodge at Woodloch in Hawley, PA

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 15 minutes
• Why We Recommend It : super cozy, plentiful outdoor activities, luxurious amenities
• Rate: call to inquire

This Lodge takes the cake when it comes to comfy, wrap-me-up-in-a-blanket winter feels: It boasts 11 cozy fireplaces or firepits throughout, an indoor HydroMassage Waterwall and a year-round, Horizon Edge Whirlpool with both forest and lake views. Aside from the well-celebrated spa, you may enjoy eagle watching (yup, it’s a thing), ice fishing and snowshoeing. The property also recently opened a salt sauna, cold water bucket shower and snow room, designed to be used together in order to melt away stress and boost wellness.

2. Ocean House in Westerly, RI

• Distance from NYC: 3 hours
• Why We Recommend It: spectacular ocean views, five-star restaurant and spa

The ocean may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of a winter getaway, but in the treasured Rhode Island hideaway of Watch Hill (also frequented by the likes of Taylor Swift, who owns a home here), something just makes it feel right. Plus, what’s more eerily romantic than seeing the ocean waves crash against the sand during chilly temps from the safety of your warm cocoon? Featuring a piano, a grand stone-faced fireplace, architectural columns and antique furniture in the lobby, rooms upstairs are coastal cozy with plush beds and tasteful décor. Bonus: Many rooms feature soaking tubs.

3. Urban Cowboy Lodge in Big Indian, NY

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours and 30 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: fire pits, decadent soaking tubs, great for hiking
• Rate: from $200/night

A wilderness retreat reminiscent of a dude ranch (with a decidedly contemporary and trendy twist), this special property boasts 28 guest rooms, plus an adorable freestanding chalet and cabin. Taxidermy details, weathered woods, mixed prints, pot belly stoves, roaring fireplaces and picture windows exposing views of the surrounding Catskill mountains make this one a charmer. Tip: Book one of the two Alpine bathing suites with a black and rose gold gilded soaking tub to really elevate the experience.

4. The Inns of Aurora Resort & Spa in Aurora, NY

• Distance from NYC: 4 hours
• Why We Recommend It: impeccably designed rooms in gorgeously restored turn of the century buildings, state-of-the-art spa with a focus on hydrotherapy
• Rate: from $268/night

This Fingers Lakes treasure is actually a collection of five properties, all built in the late 19 th and early 20 th century and restored to perfection (but often with quirky, modern sensibilities) within the past 2 0 years. Stay at the central Aurora Inn for a classic, elegant vibe or at the newly restored Wallcourt Hall (formerly a girls’ dormitory) for a more casual, modern getaway. There’s a farm-to-table restaurant on-site, not to mention the state-of-the-art spa—book a treatment and get full-day access to the saunas, hydrotherapy pools, indoor and outdoor plunge pools and complimentary café. And don’t leave the area without stopping at one of the region’s top wineries, known for Rieslings and Cabernet Francs.

5. Foxfire Mountain House in Mount Tremper, NY

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 10 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: pond-side rooms, outdoor fire pits, dining packages inclusive of daily breakfast, beer/wine happy hour and three-course dinner
• Rate: from $450/night

If you’re looking for a place to get deep into a new book , we think we’ve found it. Grab a blanket , cozy up next to the stone fireplace and be amazed at how quickly the stress of city living dissolves. It’s worth knowing that a select number of Foxfire’s rooms have shared bathrooms, but there are also six queen rooms with their own ensuite bathrooms. Either way, with plenty of places to spread out (including our fave: the outdoor glass house atrium overlooking a fire pit), you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself.

6. Scribner’s Catskill Lodge in Hunter, NY

• Why We Recommend It: extensive food options, great outdoor exploring, newly renovated
• Rate: from $225/night

This is what we call peak hygge. This upstate favorite is convenient to Hunter Mountain, but we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted to skip the slopes and go straight for the après-ski menu of hot pretzels, crab dip and a burnt maple old fashioned at the on-site restaurant, Prospect. The well-curated common areas, filled with books, tchotchkes and a contemporary fireplace are always a hit with guests, as is the outdoor fire pit. There is even a beautiful garden that guests can walk through regardless of season called Scribner’s Garden, where some of the restaurant’s produce is grown.

7. The Bear Lodge in Indian Lake, NY

• Why We Recommend It: stunning forest views, private home, sledding on-site
• Rate: from $216/night

Full of peace, tranquility and plenty of solitude, Indian Lake is quieter in the winter months, when the popular wilderness camping area thins out. At Bear Lodge, you can enjoy the vibe of camping and keep warm and cozy in a log cabin, complete with cathedral chandeliers, plenty of wood details, antler chandeliers, taxidermy, a wood stove and three (!) outdoor fire pits. The home has vintage cabin decor and plenty of nostalgia to warm up your soul, too. A furry pup (or up to four, actually) can accompany you on your trip since the property is pet-friendly . The home is located on 11 acres backed by state land, meaning it has phenomenal sledding hills, and guests can ski at the nearby Gore Mountain, too.

8. The Amelia in Hudson, NY

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 40 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: elegant accommodations and excellent location close to some of Columbia County’s best restaurants and arts centers
• Rate: from $311/night

A brick fireplace, dark wood moldings, crisp white and cream walls, reading nooks with packed bookshelves and plenty of comfy chairs to slink into are just a few of the details that make this property in Hudson, NY a charmer. Woman-owned , the expertly converted Queen Anne-style property has an emphasis on feng shui , which we of course appreciate, and luxe details, like Frette bath towels and Lockwood New York bath products. With just eight airy, well-appointed rooms, you can keep to yourself or make friends with the neighbors.

9. The Williams Inn in Williamstown, MA

• Distance from NYC: 3 hours, 15 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: excellent for outdoor activities, fine dining restaurant on-site, pet-friendly
• Rate: from $201/night

The bucolic town of Williamstown is surrounded by forested paradise, and the obvious setting for a boutique property modeled after a classic American farmhouse. Come for the warm, welcoming lobby and Adirondack chairs stationed outside a big red barn (aka the namesake restaurant, The Barn). Stay for the contemporary art, which includes photography, paintings, pottery and sculptures sprinkled throughout. Alongside fireplaces and fire pits and other places to keep warm, The Williams Inn has quick access to nature and lots of cycling, canoeing, kayaking and rock climbing if you’re so inclined.

10. Kennebunkport Inn in Kennebunkport, ME

• Distance from NYC: 5 hours, 15 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: holiday festivities, free sport rentals, easy walk to rest of town
• Rate: from $229/night

No matter the season, Kennebunkport is one of those towns in coastal Maine that will transport you to a different world, especially when a roaring fire is in view. Located in the downtown area, guests will find a resort that goes the extra mile for the holiday season—in fact, you might even turn up to find festive decorations in your guest room. In the earlier winter months, the hotel turns into a Christmas Village, complete with a curling rink, festive decor, intimate igloos and private gondolas on the outdoor patio, where you can scoop up warm Maine lobster dip, Rockefeller oysters or chocolate and peppermint hot chocolate.

11. Troutbeck in Amenia, NY

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours
• Why We Recommend It: wellness amenities, heated outdoor pool, 250 riverside acres to explore
• Rate: from $485/night

When we dream about having our very own reading nook, this is what we picture. And it happens to be inside a renovated 18th-century country estate where Mark Twain, Ernest Hemingway and Ralph Waldo Emerson once stayed. The Barns at Troutbeck is Troutbeck’s sparkling new wellness facility offering guests a suite of treatments, like trauma resolution, meditation, facial acupuncture, dry saunas, yoga and more. Natural beauty and a woodland paradise surround the historic property, all of which can be enjoyed from the outstanding on-site restaurant and cocktail bar.

12. Cedar Lakes Estate in Port Jervis, NY

• Distance from NYC: 1 hour and 30 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: lodging options for trips and groups of all sizes, stunning wedding venue, private lakes
• Rate: from $275/night

This former summer camp has been transformed by a sister duo into a luxurious retreat with a variety of accommodations. Our favorite? The snuggly cabins featuring fireplaces, outdoor patios and heated floors. There’s also a picture-perfect secluded lakefront cottage, plus a large farmhouse for bigger families and groups of friends, and camp-style houses with bunk beds if that’s more your vibe. This winter, the property’s garden will transform into an ice skating rink, which will double as a place for magical private dinners, with tables set on a carpet right on the ice, surrounded by twinkling white lights.

13. Hotel Kinsley in Kingston, NY

• Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 45 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: affordable, great local farms and breweries, an infrared sauna
• Rate: from $227/night

There are four distinct buildings that make up this luxurious hotel. The main building of this sleek escape in the historic uptown of Kingston was notably once the federal bank of New York. Its stately vibe remains, but chic details, like the wood-paneled bar, plush velvet sofas and lush greenery, set it over the top. The vibrant hotel restaurant is led by a James Beard-award winning restaurateur and guests can now co-work through a partnership with Barnfox , which means you can take advantage of lower mid-week rates and get some work done too.

14. Green Mountain Tavern, Tannersville, NY

• Why We Recommend It: minutes from Hunter Mountain ski area, beautiful hikes, chef's kitchen, fireplace, pool takbe, heated floors, outdoor kitchen with stove, hot tub
• Rate: from $459/night (sleeps 8)

In just under three hours, you can be luxuriating in your country escape—well at least it's your for the weekend. And this custom home is winter -proofed. And by that we mean it has a hot tub, heated floors and fire pit—everything we need. Explore the Great Outdoors with nearby hikes or skiing the mountains, or stay inside sipping a hot toddy and playing pool.

15. Hasbrouck House in Stone Ridge, NY

• Why We Recommend It: gorgeous forest views, hammocks and fire pits galore, central Catskills location for outdoor activities
• Rate: from $243/night

We’d drive the two hours for the hot air balloon wallpaper alone. (Then we’d stay for the hyperlocal, farm-to-table dining at the on-site restaurant, Butterfield—actual chef’s kiss!) As a bonus of staying here, you can take complimentary yoga classes at Whole Sky Yoga Studio, located within walking distance from the property, or set up a private open air session with their guest services team.

16. Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May, NJ

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 45 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: family-friendly, live animals, super fresh produce, daily menu specials
• Rate: from $599/night

Staying on this working farm in Cape May offers visitors a tranquil experience and a chance to get up close and personal with both animals and produce. For the snuggliest of stays, look into renting out the Whaler’s Cottage, which dates back to the 1700s. It features a storybook white picket fence, wood burning fire pit, personal BBQ and a cozy outdoor screened-in porch outside; inside, there’s an original winding staircase, exposed beams, an adorable gas-burning stove and a large kitchen with a Smeg refrigerator to keep all your provisions fresh from the on-site farm market. (Speaking of which, you’ll want to stock up on their out-of-this-world BBQ Ketchup.)

17. The Maker in Hudson, NY

• Distance from NYC: 2 hours, 20 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: rooftop terrace, rain showers, deluxe amenities

A newer addition to Hudson, the booming Hudson Valley town packed with one-of-a-kind design shops, farm-to-table restaurants and charming gift boutiques, The Maker hotel is quickly making its mark. Boho touches are complemented by dark wood paneling, tufted leather couches and high-backed chairs, dimly lit chandeliers, ornamental fireplaces, cozy blankets and stained glass. Snuggle up in one of the 11 uniquely defined guest rooms, or in the intimate property’s beautiful restaurant, which is housed under an atrium and surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and greenery.

18. Red Lion Inn in Stockbridge, MA

• Why We Recommend It: easy access to outdoor activities, holiday festivities, heated year-round outdoor pool & hot tub
• Rate: from $325/night

Soak up that New England charm in this historic inn complete with rocking chairs, pastoral decor and Jane and Jack, the resident purring felines. Not that you’ll want to leave your cozy abode, but if you so choose to venture outside, the Berkshires is teeming with adorable shops, farm-to-table restaurants and seasonal activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and fairy tale-esque horseback riding.

19. Tiny House in Wallkill, NY

• Why We Recommend It : tiny home life, 75 private acres, TV with streaming, fire pit, lawn games, pet-friendly
• Rate: from $209/night

Looking for some privacy? Head out to this tiny home set on 75 acres of exquisite private land where hiking trails begin as soon as you step outside the door. And no, that's not Sasquatch: there's an 18-years-old Norwegian Fjord horse on the property.

20. Eastwind Hotel & Bar in Windham, NY

• Why We Recommend It: skiing nearby, sweeping views of the Windham Mountain in the Catskills, lots of board games and puzzles
• Rate: from $197/night

This gorgeous Catskills property is a “choose your own adventure” of sorts: Opt for a well-appointed hotel room or go rustic-luxe with a Scandinavian-style A-frame cabin. A few years ago, the property launched three posh, loft-style Lushna Suites, which are available year-round and are Instagram gold . All accommodations get you access to an outdoor wood-barrel sauna and the oh-so-hygge bar with a fireplace view. Be sure to wake up in time for the breakfast baskets full of baked goods, jams, fresh juices, and more before a day on the nearby ski slopes.

21. Albergo Allegria Hotel & Breakfast Restaurant in Windham, NY

• Why We Recommend It: charming, decadent breakfast, bicycle rentals available
• Rate: from $142/night

This family-owned Catskills getaway is popular with visitors thanks to the friendly staff, impressive breakfast selection (the homemade butter and fresh bread are divine) and spacious rooms. Visitors to this Victorian-style accommodation also appreciate how clean and COVID-safe both the hotel itself and the individual rooms feel. The Albergo Allegria helpfully provide a detailed map of the area, complete with information about the many beautiful hikes nearby plus local restaurants.

22. Castle Hotel and Spa in Tarrytown, NY

• Distance from NYC: 45 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: close to NYC, excellent cultural scene, a 24-hour health and fitness center, whirlpool, landscaped jogging paths
• Rate: from $139/night

Live like royalty at this sumptuous Tarrytown hotel—that’s actually a historic castle—perched high above the Hudson Valley. If the towers and turrets aren’t quite grand enough for you, then maybe the stained-glass windows and crystal chandeliers will do the job. While the popular Sankara Spa & Equus restaurant are still unfortunately closed, there are private dining options from Thursday through Saturday and massages for guests who inquire.

23. Shandaken Inn in Shandaken, NY

• Why We Recommend It: winter activities like snow-shoeing and cross-country skiing, newly renovated, complimentary made-to-order breakfast
• Rate: from $274/night

Rustic decor? Check. Sweeping mountain views? Double check. In-room fireplace? If you need us, we’ll be here until spring. With 15 guest rooms—each with their own personality—and 12 acres of surrounding Catskills country, it’s easy to see why the property is always in high demand. After a century in business, the inn specializes in honoring and celebrating all the Catskills have to offer.

24. The Sagamore in Bolton Landing, NY

• Distance from NYC: 3 hours, 45 minutes
• Why We Recommend It: award-winning waterfront dining, 18-hole golf course, idyllic lakeside views
• Rate: from $290/night (plus additional resort fee)

Escape the island of Manhattan for a significantly more tranquil oasis. Nestled on Green Island, this elegant property boasts views of Lake George, luxurious amenities and its very own glacier ice bar (yep, an outdoor bar literally made of ice). Cozy never looked so cool.

25. The DeBruce in Livingston Manor, NY

• Why We Recommend It: exquisite dining arrangements, access to 600+ private acres and a five-mile trail system, trendy-rustic atmosphere
• Rate: from $309/night

This Catskills retreat is all about the food. Each booking includes a tasting style menu featuring seasonally sourced local produce served in the property’s gorgeous dining room where you can take in the breathtaking mountain views. Guests can take advantage of the provided breakfast and dinner, and there is plenty of room for indoor and outdoor dining, so you won’t have to miss out on the promise of a good meal.

26. Cottage in Red Hook, NY

• Why We Recommend It : great art museums, historic building, quaint upstate atmosphere, fireplace
• Rate: from $302/night (sleeps 5)

This would be the town of Red Hook upstate, not the Brooklyn neighborhood. Surround yourself with pastoral, dramatic landscapes as you cozy up in this light-filled Hudson Valley cabin—and if you finish that page-turner, there's ping pong and pinball in the gameroom. In case you needed some more convincing, it’s just a 14-minute drive to the village of Red Hook (please check out Taste Budd’s Chocolate Cafe. Yum!)

27. The Boha Hotel, Lake Placid, NY

• Distance from NYC: 5 hours
• Why We Recommend It: affordable, remodeled, bohemian/rustic, 2-minute walk to main street
• Rate: $128/night

Peace and calm await you in the Adirondack mountains at this thoughtfully designed apartment-turned-hotel. Ideal for a romantic getaway, the hotel offers a communal bonfire pit, gazebo and lounge. Plus, it's in walking distance to Lake Placid's downtown, where dining and shoping await.

28. Mirbeau Inn & Spa Rhinebeck in Rhinebeck, NY

• Why We Recommend It: year-round spa facilities, farm-fresh meals, great photo-ops for a girls’ weekend (vintage cars, marble fireplaces, etc.)
• Rate: from $380/night

Based on the Mirbeau philosophy of balancing life with wellness and indulgence, this inn and spa definitely makes our short-list for winter weekend getaways. The world-class hotel is reminiscent of an old-time chic Parisian Hotel, yet with all the modern comforts of today. Lounge or nap in the resting area, take in the Himalayan salt sauna and the Eucalyptus-infused steam room, or dip into the heated spa whirlpool with a private bar in the aqua terrace. If you want to get active, enjoy a complimentary exercise class, like yoga, Tai Chi, pilates, strength training and more.

29. Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY

• Why We Recommend It: great hiking and on-site cross-country skiing trails, stunning lake views, spacious, romantic rooms
• Rate: from $653/night

Nestled in the Hudson Valley, this Victorian castle provides a one-of-a-kind mountain getaway in New Paltz . The resort boasts a wide array of winter activities, the most popular being cross-country skiing on-site with more than 30 miles of groomed trails. Guests can explore the grounds along Lake Mohonk or head up to Sky Top Tower with sweeping views of the Catskills, then warm up inside by the fire with daily afternoon tea and cookies. The Spa at Mohonk Mountain House also offers a variety of guided yoga, meditation and fitness experiences, as well as a comprehensive curriculum of mindfulness programming designed to promote overall health and wellness. Sign us up!

30. Wylder Windham in Windham, NY

• Why We Recommend It : a “guaranteed to ski” Windham Mountain package offer for guests, complimentary guest shuttles to and from the mountain, country club and downtown, live entertainment, heated outdoor pool
• Rate: from $395/night

Recently fully opened in October 2022, Wylder Windham was built for travelers who love storied locations, open air, adventures and a chance to disconnect from the rest of the world. This Great Northern Catskills spot is only five minutes from premiere skiing destination, Windham Mountain, and has 20 on-site acres of pristine land alongside the Batavia Kill River. Rent an e-bike, enjoy a pickleball game on the expansive lawn, play golf next door or have some home-cooked comfort food at Babblers, the on-site restaurant and bakery. The mountains are calling!

31. Hotel Lilien in Tannersville, NY

• Why We Recommend It : minutes away from stellar skiing and hiking, on-site snowshoeing and sledding in the winter, cozy and crowd-free

Hotel Lilien is a prime destination for guests seeking an intimate (there are only 18 rooms) getaway that's equal parts low-key and chic. This northern Catskills locale is a mere four minutes from skiing and ziplining at Hunter Mountain, and eight minutes from Kaaterskill Falls and Mountain Top Arboretum, in case hiking is your thing. Treat yourself to complimentary breakfast (hello, warm croissants), cocktails in the lounge, billiards and board games by the fire if you're staying in, or suit up for an afternoon of sledding and snowshoeing.

10 Cozy Airbnbs in New York to Book Right Now

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27 Best Day Trips From NYC

If you live in New York City or just visiting the Big Apple, there is a lot you can see within a day's travel from the city. Sure - NYC has a huge amount to do and see as it is, but if you fancy getting out and about, there are amazing day trips you can take in every direction.

From city breaks to National Parks to scenic drives in the fall, there's a day trip for everybody in the list below. If you want to venture out of the state, you can choose between Long Island, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut or even go as far as Washington D.C. depending on how adventurous you feel.

Here's our list of the 27 best day trips from NYC.

1. Philadelphia, PA

2 hours from NYC by car or bus, 1 hour 20 minutes by Amtrak

Phadelphia is one of the best city breaks you can experience in the United States and being so close to New York, you can easily make it a day trip if you don't want to spend the night.

Getting here is easy - you can drive if you want to, but it's super easy to get here by train or bus. I've done both when I used to live in New York and I love the bus option. There are a few different companies that you can use but you can never go wrong with Greyhound so I'd recommend them. You won't need your car to see the city, so relax and let somebody else do the driving!

Philly has some of the nation's most important historic sites. The Independence Hall and Liberty Bell Center are a must and there are a few different historical museums you can visit.

Note that you may need to book tours in advance if you want to get into some of these places - make sure you do as we found this out the hard way although you can usually get into the Independence Hall to see a copy of the original constitution even if you don't make any plans beforehand.

Stop by the Reading Terminal Market. This is one of the largest and most famous indoor markets in the country and has all kinds of local food and drink you should try. One great idea is to come here after lunch and get your desert from one of the stalls.

2. Beacon, NY

1 hour 30 minutes from NYC by train or car

Beacon is a small artsy town up the Hudson River from New York. You can drive up and that's a great option if you're going to other places on the way (check out the drive at #6 below), but if Beacon is your only destination, save yourself the hassle of getting out and back into New York and take the train instead.

As you roam Beacon's Main Street, you'll notice that there are a lot of galleries here. A top tip is to come on the second Saturday of the month when all the galleries and artists' venues open their doors for special exhibitions and events.

These can get busy, but it's worth it and you might come across some great food tasting or a festive celebration.

For those who like the outdoors, there are a lot of parks and green spaces surrounding the city. You can hike up Mount Beacon which overlooks the town and offers great views up and down the Hudson.

The hike up should take under an hour (just over a mile) to get to the viewing spot where the old casino ruins are. It's a steep vertical climb so make sure you're prepared.

If you want to get to the fire tower right at the top, that's another mile each way and while you can see further to the horizon, the views are not as good as from the first lookout because the mountain obscures the view.

3. Bethlehem, PA

1 hour 40 minutes from NYC by car

Bethlehem is a calm and quiet city that got its name on Christmas Eve in 1741 during the visit of Count Zinzendorf of Saxony.

There's a lot of history throughout Bethlehem and if you want to stay overnight, Hotel Bethlehem was built on the spot where the original huts stood in 1741 which makes it the perfect place to stay.

Take your time to roam the streets - there are great restaurants and cafes with tables outside where you can relax over lunch and quirky local shops.

Have a look inside the Moravian Book Shop - it is the oldest continuously operating book shop in the world and has opened its doors since 1745 and is the second oldest in the world after one based in Lisbon, Portugal.

December is a great time to go on a day trip to Bethlehem - the Christmas decorations are up and the town has an amazing wintery vibe about it. The buildings and town layout feels distinctly European and the main square converts into the Christkindlmarkt - a large Christmas market with stalls selling hand-made decorations, various types of art and even German Strudel!

4. Breakneck Ridge, NY

1 hour 30 minutes' drive from NYC

Just a few miles south of Beacon and north of Cold Spring (#7 below) you'll find the Breakneck Ridge Trail. If you're coming up from New York for the day, you should definitely check both of these out - you can get a great late lunch to reward yourself in Beacon.

To get to Breakneck Ridge, a car is your easiest route. You can get the train as well - either to Beacon or a special service that stops around half a mile from the start of the trail at the weekend, but you might find it more relaxing to not have to time your visit to the timings of the one specific train.

There are two options for the hike. The shorter one is the Breakneck Ridge Bypass loop which is around 2.8 miles all in. The longer route takes you all the way around the Breakneck Loop but it's about twice as long and will take you a few hours to get around.

There are a few steep rocky sections so make sure you're wearing suitable footwear and try to come when the weather is good as it makes the hike a lot more pleasant.

5. Princeton, NJ

1 hour 10 minutes by car or 2 hours 15 minutes by train from NYC

You can get to Princeton on a train, but you have to take a slow service out of Penn Station and you can drive to Princeton relatively easily so pick the best route based on where you're starting from in New York.

Princeton is an old city that has a lot of history for visitors to dive head first into.

First, there's the famous Princeton University which regularly tops world university rankings and is known for producing some of the brightest minds over the years from Amazon founder Jeff Bezos to President Woodrow Wilson to Alan Turing and John Nash.

You can wander the grounds of the university and see the old buildings to see what the campus looks in real life. There's even a lake the university made by expanding a small canal named after the main sponsor - Lake Carnegie - where you can relax on the lawn with a picnic.

The city itself has wonderful old streets with independent shops and a classic European look which makes a day out in Princeton great after staring at New York's skyscrapers towering on top of each other.

Being the scene of one of the most famous battles in American history where George Washington defeated the British Army for the first time, there are important historic sites you should visit.

Princeton Battlefield State Park covers the area where the battle took place and the Princeton Battle Monument can be found on Nassau Street in Princeton's Historic District.

6. Drive up the Hudson River to the Catskills

2 hours 30 minutes from NYC

One of the prettiest drives you can take out of New York is right up the Hudson River to the Catskill Mountains. These are the closest mountains to New York and are very popular with city dwellers who want to escape the busy streets of Manhattan for a weekend of hiking or skiing.

A number of places along the route are on this list because they are worth a day's road trip alone. Cold Spring, Beacon and Breakneck Ridge are all up along the Hudson but you can't possibly see these and get to the Catskills in a day.

We could probably have an entire list of day trips from New York City to different places in the Catskills, but we restrained ourselves to just three on this list - this scenic drive, a drive up to Hunter (see #12 below) and the Minewaska State Park (#13 below).

This trip covers the southern part of the Catskills - the rolling mountains have Wild Forests throughout that have dozens of miles of hiking trails each - check out Willowemoc, Sundown or Balsam Lake Mountain.

The small town of Roscoe a little further in has declared itself Trout Town USA and if you want to find out how good their trout is, the season opens at the beginning of April.

7. Cold Spring, NY

1 hour 10 minutes from NYC by Metro North

If you have the full day, you can easily combine a visit to Cold Spring with a hike up Breakneck Ridge (#4 above) - the two are pretty close to each other and you can either walk, get a cab or go one stop on the train (trains only go twice in the morning on weekends) between the two.

Cold Spring is a popular day trip from New York because getting here is so easy and fast and the small town is perfect for strolling.

Main Street in Cold Spring is full of small local stores. There's antique shops if that's your thing and various other outdoor and other general shops - you can spend some time trawling through these or do a spot of window shopping.

A short cab ride or a few minutes' drive away from Cold Spring is Manitoga. This is a small estate that belonged to the renowned designer Russel Wright. The $25 tour of the house takes 90 minutes and there are a few relaxed walks around the 75-acre woodland that surrounds it you can enjoy afterwards.

Note that the tours only run during the summer months starting from May in case you're coming to Cold Spring over the winter.

If you want even more hiking options, the Little Stony Point loop starts on the edge of Cold Spring and is a relatively easy route. You will come across some ruins and disused buildings along the way which are also fun to explore.

8. Drive up Route 97 to Hawk's Nest and Callicoon, NY

2 hours 45 minutes from NYC

This might just be the best drive you can take from New York. The route up to Callicoon along the Delaware River's twists and turns is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the moment.

You will want to drive to Port Jervis and then follow Route 97 all the way to Callicoon. One stretch of this road is called Hawk's Nest because hawks literally build their nests in the rocks overlooking the river. The length of this stretch of Route 97 is known as the Upper Delaware Scenic Byway.

The road hugs the cliff as it bends right and left and the iconic route is popular with adventure drivers - look out for the overly keen wannabe rally drivers coming round the corner.

The route has featured in various adverts including a famous 1980s national Porsche ad. There are a couple of spots you can stop to take photos as well.

The town of Callicoon is relaxed and has a few antique shops and a large local brewery. Not much happens here which is why it's a great place to stay if you want to spend the night - the local hotels are distinctly average but you can get some great places on AirBnB.

9. Fire Island, off the coast of Long Island

2 hours 10 minutes from NYC by car or around 2 hours to catch the LIRR and ferry

Fire Island is a 32-mile thin barrier island that separates the southern cost of Long Island from the Atlantic Ocean. It has built a reputation as a place for New Yorkers to have second homes and has a strong LGBT community with big summer events in toe.

You can get here by taking the LIRR and then a ferry and this is what many would recommend. Although the island generally has a ban on cars, you can still drive onto it over the Fire Island Inlet Bridge and park at the Robert Moses State Park for $10.

The best way to get around the island is by bike so bring your own or you can figure out a hire once you get here. Some of the locals prefer the electric golf carts so watch out for them zooming around.

The island is home to a number of parks, preserves and a National Seashore so there's plenty of places you can go for a walk and enjoy watching the waves roll in.

Stop by the biggest town on the island - Ocean Beach. It's still pretty small but there's a few good restaurants where you can get lunch and it's interesting to roam around a town with no cars.

10. Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton, NJ

1 hour 30 minutes by NJ Transit and taxi or 1 hour 10 minutes by car from NYC

Grounds for Sculpture is a huge forty-two acre park full of unusual art and sculpture to keep you entertained.

From a giant statue of Marilyn Monroe's skirt blowing up by the wind to a man sleeping on a bench, these statues are weirdly entertaining. The grounds are a mix of fields, paths, ponds and woods with the sculptures randomly spread throughout.

Most of the fun here is seeking out the secret paths that are obscured from view or hidden behind secret doors. The more you find, the more interesting statues you'll see.

This might be the best day trip for a family with kids - you can lose yourself in the park for 3 or 4 hours, discovering new nooks and crannies at every turn.

Grab lunch at the Rats restaurant which is decent but may be a little expensive. Alternatively, you'll find cafes dotted around as well where you can grab a bite to eat.

11. Cape May, NJ

2 hours 45 minutes by car from NYC

Cape May is at the southernmost point of New Jersey, separating Delaware Bay from the Atlantic. Getting here is relatively easy, but driving is the only real option with buses taking a long time and it'll take you the best part of 3 hours to get here from New York.

Life in Cape May moves nice and slow - you can take a stroll along the beach, sit in one of the oceanfront restaurants for a few hours over lunch and pop into one of the many quirky local stores selling things like fudge, oil paintings and jewelry.

The houses and mansions around Cape May include a lot of impressive brightly-colored Victorian buildings which give the town its unique seaside vibe. You can go inside some of these - the Emlen Physick Estate is one example - to see what an 18-room mansion built in the 1900s looks like.

The entire town has been designated a National Historic Landmark because of the unique look and the buildings throughout. It may be a bit of a trek, but if you set off early, it's a great day trip from New York.

12. Northern Catskills and Hunter, NY

2 hours 45 minutes from NYC by car

The Northern Catskills are almost 3 hours away so exploring these in a day may feel like a little stretch and if you're not tight for time, you may want to look at booking a hotel for a night o two to make the most of your trip.

Once you do get up here, there is a lot to do and see in a relatively small area. While Hunter is your ultimate destination, the towns of Woodstock, Tannersville, Phoenicia and even the town of Catskill right on the Hudson are all within a short drive of each other.

The Kaaterskill Falls are one of the most impressive sights in the Catskills and these are easily accessible via a short walk in the Kaaterskill Wild Forest, just outside Tannersville.

If you're coming in the winter, Hunter is one of the most popular ski mountains but as it's the closest to New York, it is also one of the busiest. The other good ski areas, Belleayre, Plattekill Mountain and Windham are all 20 to 40 minutes away from Hunter.

13. Kerhonkson & Minnewaska State Park, NY

2 hours from NYC by car

If you want to get away from it all, spend a few hours walking in serene nature with trees gently swaying and the water gurgling in the distance, the Minnewaska State Park in the Shawangunk Mountains is where you should go from New York.

Only around 2 hours in the car gets you to a beautiful park with several lakes and streams flowing and loads of hiking trails that offer more of a relaxing Sunday morning walk than an arduous climb.

There are waterfalls you can trek to and trails that last from 30 minutes to several hours depending on how far you want to go.

Remember to pay for your parking and try to get here early to make the most of the park before the families arrive in the afternoon. If the weather is hot, you can go for a swim in the creek - there's a designated beach for swimming.

Kerhonkson is a small hamlet and there's not much to do in the town itself, but if you want to extend your day trip and stay the night, there are some amazing properties on AirBnB in the area that will make you feel like you've won the lottery.

The roads all around the Shawangunk area are spectacular too so if you have time, check the Scenic Byway roads around the region.

14. Montauk, Long Island

3 hours by car or 3 hours 15 minutes by train

Montauk is a small town right at the end of Long Island and famous for its relaxed feel, seafood and 6 different State Parks you can relax and unwind in.

Depending on where you are in New York, getting here may be easier by train or car. Trains run from Penn Station with a change at Jamaica or you take a 3-hour drive through the Hamptons instead.

A day trip is possible, but you might feel it a bit of a stretch so if you want to relax for longer, book yourself a hotel for a night... or just take the whole week!

Montauk recently featured as the backdrop to Showtime's The Affair TV series and you can see why so many New Yorkers fall in love with the place. It's the perfect antidote to the sirens, taxi horns and the general hustle of the city where time blends into the waves and leaves you alone.

Make sure you go to the Montauk Point Lighthouse - it's a National Historic Site and you can climb the 137 steps to the top to get great views of the surrounding water from one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.

15. The Glass House in New Canaan, CT

1 hour 20 minutes by train or car from NYC

Although the Glass House sounds far away, being in a small town in Connecticut, it is surprisingly easy to get to from New York making it easily reachable on a day trip.

You can choose to drive, but there is a fast train that stops in New Canaan and the Glass House visitor center is across the road from the station. You can save the hassle of getting out and back into New York and do something other than holding the steering wheel.

Built in the late 40s, this unique house was originally the architect's (Philip Johnson's) home. While other modernist buildings before it also used square proportions and open spaces, this was a revolutionary design where the entire house is completely transparent to the outside world.

It also takes minimalism to a whole new level with no clutter and no unnecessary items around.

Tours take 1 to 2 hours depending on whether you want to see the art galleries, sculpture and have a walk outside. Make sure you book ahead - the Glass House is only open in the summer months and the tour slots can book up early.

16. Bear Mountain State Park, NY

1 hour 15 minutes from NYC by car

Another place you can get to quickly from NYC and visit on a day trip that is located up the Hudson - I think you can see the pattern for what the best direction is if you want to get out of the city!

Bear Mountain State Park sits right on the Hudson on the west side of the Purple Heart Memorial Bridge.

This is the one park that's great to visit any time of year. While all the usual activities like hiking and mountain biking are great in the summer, the park opens its ice rink and converts trails into cross country skiing runs over the winter months.

There's a lot more than just the park here too. There is a small and free zoo that homes injured wild animals. We highly recommend you make a donation if you visit - it's for a fantastic cause.

On the edge of the park and right along the Hudson are the historic sites of Fort Clinton and Fort Montgomery where you can brush up on your knowledge of American history with the scenic Hudson River backdrop.

17. Atlantic City, NJ

2 hours 10 minutes by car, or 2 hours 30 minutes by bus from NYC

Atlantic City is known for its casinos, huge beaches and the classic Boardwalk and at only just over 2 hours away from New York City, it's a great destination for a day trip or even a weekend.

Getting here is relatively straightforward although the travel can stretch to over 3 hours if you hit bad traffic. There are regular buses that run between the two by a few different companies with Greyhound travelling very frequently. If you're not headed anywhere else, it can be a great option and you can enjoy a drink before heading home too.

The prime reason to go to Atlantic City is if you want to do a bit of gambling or play cards. The last few years have not been kind to Atlantic City and a number of the top casinos have gone out of business and closed their doors but there's still 10 large casinos operating around town.

Take a stroll down the Boardwalk to break up the day and make sure you check out the beaches if you're coming in the summer. Unusually for New Jersey, they are free and can be a great way to spend time on a hot summer day.

18. Sleepy Hollow, NY

40 minutes by train to Tarrytown from Grand Central

Sleepy Hollow is a small town just north of New York City that was made famous by the haunting story written by Washington Irving in 1820.

Today it's a great place to come spend the day, walk around the area and visit the house where Irving lived.

Don't bother with getting into the car - getting to Sleepy Hollow is far quicker and easier by train. Get on one of the express services and get out at Tarrytown, just south of Sleepy Hollow. You'll save 20 minutes on the train and George Irving's Sunnyside is south of Tarrytown making it easier for you to get to.

Don't miss the Sleepy Hollow Lighthouse. This pretty small building was in use until construction of the Tappan Zee Bridge made it obsolete in 1961. Today it's part of the small Kingsland Point State Park and is a great photo spot, especially at sunset.

19. Smithtown, Long Island

1 hour 20 minutes by car from NYC

Smithtown is the town you should come to if you want a day all to yourself, strolling through parks, taking things a little slow and unwinding.

Getting to Smithtown is relatively easy - once you've made it through the heavy traffic through Queens, the Long Island Expressway and the Northern State Parkway are an easy drive that should take you under an hour and a half from Manhattan.

Set off from New York before the main rush hour and you can drive to Smithtown in time for breakfast at Maureen's Kitchen. The pancakes are amazing and are definitely worth waking up early for.

There are a few good options for walking - the Blydenburgh Park Historic District and the adjoining parks around the pond have good walking paths as does the Caleb Smith State Park a few hundred yards further north. It's one of only two formal State nature preserves on Long Island and you can find unusual plants and various animals that call the park their home.

There are two wineries nearby as well - Whisper just outside Smithtown and Harmony a little further out. If you've got a designated driver, this can be a great lunchtime stop!

20. Stony Brook, Long Island

1 hour 30 minutes by car from NYC

Stony Brook is another great town on Long Island and is only 10 minutes further than Smithtown, just after you pass Harmony Vineyards.

What makes Stony Brook different is the feel of the village that sits around a natural protected harbor. The Village Center is full of small local stores, coffee and tea shops.

This is a great place to come and spend a few hours not really doing anything and watching the boats come in and out of the harbor.

The The Stony Brook Grist Mill is a working mill that you can visit at weekends - entry is $2 for adults and $1 for kids! Right next to the mill is the Avalon Park & Preserve that has woods, a wildflower meadow and walking trails.

If you want to stay longer, there's some good music and places to eat - the large Stony Brook University nearby keeps the town young and means there's always something going on.

21. Old Westbury Gardens, Long Island

50 minutes from NYC by car

There are a few large mansions on Long Island and Old Westbury is a great one to visit at under an hour's drive from most parts of New York.

Spring is the best season to visit Old Westbury - the gardens are in full bloom with bright flowers everywhere and the weather is at its best meaning you get to experience the place in its best light.

The gardens are the main attraction here and there are 10 different gardens to visit. You can easily spend several hours seeing the manicured lawns, flower beds, fountains and walk around East Lake. At only $12 to get in, it's great value and there are the usual discounts for children and seniors.

You can tour the mansion as well although tours can be restricted and hard to book due to ongoing restoration work - make sure you check ahead of your trip!

Inside, you'll find opulent decor, painted ceilings a-la Vatican's Sistine Chapel and other over the top demonstrations of wealth and luxury. It's an interesting visit so add it to your itinerary.

22. Baltimore, MD

2 hours 20 minutes on the train from NYC or 3 hours 20 minutes by car

When choosing to go on a city break from New York, most will opt for Washington D.C. or Philadephia. The two cities ooze history and have so much to see, you can spend a week in each and not run out of sights.

You can get to Baltimore on a fast train which is much faster and easier than driving. Once you get here, there are two things you need to explore: food and neighborhoods.

Baltimore is a foodie city - there are great local crab and fish dishes if you like your seafood, craft breweries around town and a few local wines you can try too.

Most visitors head for the Inner Harbor which offers spectacular views of the city and is great to walk around, but don't forget to visit some of the other Baltimore neighborhoods too. Canton is home to small local shops and bars and Mount Vernon is the place to come for the museums and grand architecture.

23. Cornwall, NY and Storm King Mountain

The town of Cornwall dates back to the 17th century but there isn't much left from that far back for you to see, although there are a few buildings and hotels that are over 200 years old.

The main reason to come to Cornwall is the nature that surrounds it. The rolling hills have been preserved despite being so close to New York and right along the Hudson River.

The two main places to go are the Storm King State Park and the Black Rock Forest that blends into it.

The Appalachian Trail cuts through the park and there are hiking trails ranging from calm walks to steep climbs for every occasion. If you want a challenge, try hiking up Butter Hill.

The hike leads up via Storm King Mountain and is definitely on the tough side, but you will be well rewarded with amazing views from the top all over the Hudson Highlands.

24. The Palisades, NJ

30 minutes by car from NYC

The Palisades, just the other side of the Hudson, in New Jersey, are the only place on our list that you could get to without a car or public transport if you are brave enough to cycle through the traffic.

The Palisades Interstate Park stretches right from the George Washington Bridge to the town of Palisades, just after the border with New York State along the river. The cliffs, which you really do want to visit, are about two thirds of the way up.

There are plenty of places to park, a number of great hiking routes and spectacular views of Manhattan, the Hudson and the George Washington Bridge.

The tree covered cliffs are perfect for a picnic, a few hours of strolling up and down between the overlooks or even a spot of birdwatching.

The calm and peace of the Palisades could not be a starker contrast to the concrete jungle of Yonkers on the opposite side of the Hudson, but the width of the river means you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

25. Warwick Valley Wine and Distillery, NY

1 hour 40 minutes by car from NYC

Most people don't know much at all about wine grown in New York state. Some people know that there's wineries on Long Island and some wine aficionados might know of a vineyard or two up around Finger Lakes in upstate New York.

But a winery on the border with New Jersey just outside Port Jervis?

The Warwick Valley winery has built up a big reputation and is incredibly popular at weekends. If you can help it, come here during the week or get here earlier on Saturday.

The local wines are interesting and the food is great so treat yourself to a great local lunch.

If some of you are not into wine, the cider tasting here might be even better than the wine so go for that instead. There's not many places near the winery to stay and you won't find Uber driving around, so plan ahead for where you're going after and who's driving!

26. Washington D.C.

4 hours from NYC by car or 3 hour on the train

Washington D.C. is an amazing place to visit at any time of the year and for however much time you've got on your hands. It would definitely sit much higher up our list if it wasn't for the fact that coming here on a day trip from New York is a bit of a stretch.

It certainly can be done and there are tours that pick you up bright and early from the Big Apple before embarking on a cultural whirlwind and bring you back to Manhattan late at night, but we wouldn't recommend this option.

The train is the best way to get from New York to the nation's capital. The journey takes just under 3 hours on Amtrak and takes you from Penn Station right into D.C.'s Union Station. A 1 hour 15 minute flight sounds good until you add in the time to get to and from the airport and the usual milling around in the departure lounge.

A 6 a.m. train will get you there before 9 giving you plenty of time to roam around.

There are few cities in the world that can offer close to the number of amazing monuments, museums and culture you can explore in Washington D.C.

You won't be able to cover all in a day, but the Lincoln Memorial, a stroll along the Tidal Basin and the National Archives Museum (get there early to skip the queues!) and the Washington Monument have got to be on your list.

27. Wineries on Long Island

2 hours by car from NYC

If you're not from New York, you may well not know about the Long Island wineries and how fast these popular vineyards are growing. People typically associate American wines with the Californian valleys, Oregon, Washington State and even Virginia, but New York State is the fourth largest in wine production and there are some real gems on Long Island.

The majority of the vineyards on Long Island are in the North Fork area - the tip of Long Island stretching north of the Hamptons.

There are around 55 different vineyards in the area and many have organised tours and wine tastings which may mean your day trip out of New York might become a long weekend if you want to do the wines justice.

Some well known producers have wineries here including Bedell Cellars and the Wölffer Estate but there's a few quirky independent producers who make really great reds so it's worth giving them a try!

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The 9 Best Train Rides to Take From New York City

Getting there is half the fun.

Being in New York City never gets old, but just in case, on those rare occasions you’re looking to escape, it’s easy to find a nearby getaway destination. And all you need to do to get there is book a train ticket.

Train travel in the U.S. isn’t exactly as easy as, say European or Japanese train travel, but thankfully those living in New York City live in the epicenter of railway transportation in America. It’s a snap to get to and from destinations near and far on Amtrak, the MTA, and the Long Island Railroad. If you need a little inspiration on where you should go, here are nine places to travel via train that are worthy of taking the slow route. 

NYC to Chicago: 22 hours 

Amtrak’s Lake Shore Limited offers daily departures to whisk New Yorkers away to the Windy City. The route takes passengers through some gorgeous upstate New York areas, then on to Lake Michigan before entering Chicago. According to Amtrak, the best seat in the house is the Viewliner accommodations, including the Viewliner Bedroom Suite , which comes with a foldout bed, ideal for the overnight journey. Once at your destination, it’s time to explore the best attractions in Chicago , like The Art Institute of Chicago, set out on a local architectural walking tour, and see The Bean, and stay at the luxe Pendry Chicago .

NYC to Westerly, Rhode Island: 3 hours 

For a quicker getaway, board Amtrak’s Northeast Regional to Westerly, Rhode Island, a quiet little beach town ideal for a refreshing weekend. Though quick, the train passes through some idyllic landscapes in Connecticut, over bridges, past glittering water views, and pastoral fields. Once in Westerly, disembark the train and make your way to The Ocean House , arguably one of the most luxurious hotels in America. There, kick off your shoes in one of its 49 guest rooms that offer ocean views, enjoy its spa experiences, and walk right to the beach. If you do happen to leave the hotel, you’ll also be rewarded with an adorable small-town experience. Make your way downtown to shop in spots like the ​​Savoy Bookshop and Cafe , dine on local bites at The Cooked Goose , or just tuck your toes into the sand for a day at Misquamicut Beach. 

NYC to Boston: 3 hours 43 minutes on Acela, 5 hours on Regional

Keep going north on the Northeast Regional for a few more stops, and you’ll hit Boston . This journey continues the stellar views through bucolic landscapes and a sprinkling of city views as you pass through Providence. This journey also offers a slow and fast version. For a quicker getaway (where the views zoom so fast you may miss them), choose the Acela option, which has fewer stops and faster speeds. But if you’ve got time, take the slower Regional train. Once in Boston , soak in a little history by walking The Freedom Trail and visiting the Paul Revere House, and grab a bit of culture at the Institute of Contemporary Art and The Museum of Fine Arts. And if you happen to be there during baseball season, absolutely do not miss a Red Sox game at Fenway. Boston is brimming with stellar hotels to choose from, but a perennial favorite is The Langham, Boston , a hotel built inside the old Federal Reserve Bank that’s centrally located in the city, making it a great home base for your stay. 

NYC to Philadelphia: 1 hour 20 minutes

If the allure of an ooey, gooey, downright delicious cheesesteak is calling your name, then it's time to hop a quick train south to Philadelphia. Though the views during this ride won't be the best, it's worth it for where the train stops: William H. Gray III 30th Street Station . First opened in 1933, the station maintains much of its original charm, including towering ceilings (95 feet high to be exact) and art deco touches. It's also home to "The Porch," an outdoor area connecting the station to Market Street. The station is so spectacular it made its way to the National Register of Historic Places. It's also a stone's throw away from major attractions in the city, including The Academy of Natural Sciences and Independence Hall. As for that cheesesteak, it's up for debate on who serves it best, so we'll let Visit Philly settle this one by sharing its list of best cheesesteaks here . As for where to rest after you dine, check into Wm. Mulherin's Sons Hotel , a chic and centrally located boutique hotel with timeless design, including exposed brick and beams.

NYC to Delaware: 2 hours

Go just an absolute smidge past Philadelphia, and you’ll hit Wilmington, a small city that’s a history buff’s dream. Getting there takes the same route as the train to Philly, but by going a touch farther, you start to hit more verdant landscapes before entering the city of 70,000 people. In Wilmington, depart at ​​Joseph R. Biden Jr. Railroad Station, a railway stop named after President Biden thanks to his famed trips back and forth to Washington, D.C . on this very railway. Once you’re out, make your way to places like the Delaware Art Museum , Fort Christina , and Nemours Estate , a stunning 200-acre garden and 77-room mansion that will make you feel like you’re back in the Gilded Age. After seeing the local attractions, check into the Hotel Du Pont , a 12-story Italian Renaissance building that opened in 1913 smack dab in the middle of downtown. 

NYC to Washington, D.C.: 3 hours on Acela, 3 hours 40 minutes on Regional

Take your trip a few stops further and make your way to the nation’s capital, a journey that takes you through more cityscapes (including Philadelphia and Baltimore), with a smattering of green spaces in between. However, like Boston, this train too comes with a faster option on the Acela, cutting 40 minutes of travel time if you’re really in a rush. In D.C., historical and cultural sites abound, including The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the National Mall, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and of course, tours of the White House. In D.C., keep the historical times going by booking a stay at The Watergate Hotel, which, yes, is the very one associated with the political scandal by the same name. 

NYC to New York's Adirondacks: 3 hours 30 minutes

Need a big breath of fresh air? Hop aboard Amtrak’s Adirondacks line that travels from New York City all the way to Montreal. Don’t worry. You don’t need to go that far to find wide-open spaces. Just hop off in ​​Saratoga Springs. The journey is perhaps one of the most breathtaking on this list, winding travelers through pastures and New York towns like Rhinecliff and Hudson before coming to rest in the quaint rail station in Saratoga. In town, make your way to the Saratoga Spa State Park , a place so stunning it was named a National Historic Landmark. While there, see if there’s a show playing at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center , and explore a bit of its delightful downtown. Then, check into the Adelphi Hotel , a 32-room boutique hotel that underwent a major renovation in 2017, breathing new life into this historic spot. 

NYC to Montauk, New York: 3 hours

Amtrak isn’t the only train game in town. New Yorkers can also board the Long Island Railroad to Montauk for a seaside break. The views outside this train quickly transform from high rises to small towns as you make your way through Long Island, taking a nearly straight shot down the coast until you hit the very tip of the island. Yes, Montauk has long been favored as a summer escape thanks to its idyllic beaches, but don’t skip over it for a fall or even winter escape for a crowd-free scene. In Montauk, go see the Montauk Point Lighthouse, walk along Ditch Plains Beach, and set out on a horseback ride with Deep Hollow Ranch , the first established cattle ranch in the U.S. Then, rest at Gurney’s Star Island , a hotel boasting a private beach, complimentary beach cruisers, and several delicious dining venues. 

NYC to Sleepy Hollow, New York: 53 minutes 

For an under an hour journey, hop aboard the Metro-North Railroad to the storied town of Sleepy Hollow. Embark at Grand Central and take the commuter rail, which snakes north through the city before popping out in greener pastures once you hit stops like Greystone. Sleepy Hollow is technically a village with just 10,000 permanent residents, only adding to its charms. If you're there during spooky season, guests should pay a visit to the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and see The Headless Horseman Bridge that traverses the Pocantico River. For something a little less spooky, visit Kykuit , the former estate of the Rockefellers. Book a few nights in the Castle Hotel and Spa , a one-time private residence turned into a dreamy 31-room accommodation. 

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21 outdoor adventures near NYC

Need a break from the city? Head out for a day of kayaking, hiking or another of these year-round outdoor adventures.

When the crammed sidewalks and packed subway cars get to be too much, get out of town for an outdoor adventure not too far from the city. To really get back to nature, you have to venture at least an hour or two outside NYC. The adrenaline rush from whitewater rafting, rock climbing or snow tubing, combined with the magnificent natural scenery, is enough to make any New Yorker forget about the Big Apple for a few hours. And if you're still not ready to go back to the concrete jungle, book a nearby hotel room to turn any of the day trips below into a relaxing weekend getaway . Queue up the road trip songs !

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Spring outdoor adventures

Scrambling up Breakneck Ridge

With an ascent of 1,442 feet, this 9.6-mile loop trail will definitely leave you huffing and puffing. Though advanced hikers can certainly tackle it on their own, beginners might want jion a group hike with Xcelerated Adventures or another guide company. Come prepared with sturdy hiking boots and durable clothing—you’ll be scrambling over quite a few rocks along the route.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Rick McCharles

Sailing on the Hudson River

Make the most of sunny days by getting out on the water. Hudson River Community Sailing offers three-hour introductory classes most weekends during the spring and summer to get you started. You’ll learn the difference between port and starboard, what “come about” means and, most importantly, how to steer. Ahoy sailor!

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ rabendeviaregia

Checking out the view from Anthony’s Nose

This rocky ridge with an unusual name offers unparalleled views of the Hudson River and Bear Mountain Bridge. Of course, the scenery comes at a price: You’ll have to huff and puff your way up 2.8 miles of trail and a 700-foot elevation gain for the photo opp. Though you could certainly go solo, inexperienced hikers might want to join a Vertically Inclined group hike for some expert guidance.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ squirrel83

Hiking the Surprise Lake Loop

After climbing up an extremely rocky ridge and meandering along a fairly flat trail for a few miles, you see it: the unexpected (but aptly named) Surprise Lake appearing over a vista. On a clear day, you can even see the teeny-tiny New York City skyline in the distance. The terrain can be tough, but it’s worth it for the incredible views.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ WhatsAllThisThen

Summer outdoor adventures

Whitewater rafting on the Delaware River

Adventurers looking to really get their adrenaline pumping will want to book a whitewater rafting trip on the Upper Delaware River. Known for its intense rapids, this section of the river is beloved by thrillseekers. Never fear—that’s why you’re going with an experienced Reber River Trips guide. Prepare to get soaked!

Biking to a campsite in a New Jersey vineyard

Sure, the first day of this weekend bike excursion ends at a winery, but it’s no joke: You’ll ride 56 miles the first day and 45 the second! Luckily, the paths you’ll follow are relatively flat, so you won’t burn out too quickly. You’ll start at Sandy Hook Beach, and wind your way along the coast before turning west to ride through the countryside of Monmouth County. Once you arrive at Cream Ridge Winery, you’ll enjoy a wine tasting and hot meal before setting up camp for the night in the stunning vineyard.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Jeffrey Beall

Competing in the Tough Mudder Long Island

Though it’s held at the quaint Old Bethpage Village Restoration on Long Island, this July’s Tough Mudder competition is anything but cute. Competitors will have to power through a 10–12 mile course with more than 20 obstacles, including 10-foot tall walls,  channels of icy water  and a deranged version of the monkey bars. Don’t think you can handle it? There’s also a Tough Mudder Half that puts you through just 5 miles and 13 obstacles. No biggie, right?

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ thecollectivity

Kayaking down the Delaware River

Travel an hour and a half outside of the city to find some peace and quiet on the serene Delaware River. Pick up a paddle and kayak for a few hours on this excursion led by Sourced Adventures. After a picnic lunch, you’ll end the afternoon with a wine tasting at Westfall Winery in New Jersey. That’s one way to soothe your sore muscles.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Jim Pennucci

Rappelling down a waterfall in the Catskills

What’s better than hiking to a 100-foot waterfall? Rappelling down it, of course! Kids, don’t try this at home: You should definitely get some professional supervision from the certified instructors at Northeast Mountain Guiding before you attempt to rappell on your own. Don't get too caught up in the heart-pounding experience to enjoy the scenery, though—it would be a shame to miss the gorgeous surroundings of Catskill Park. 

Stand-up paddleboarding in Manhasset Bay

Staying upright on a stand-up paddleboard requires core strength and, of course, balance. Still, it’s much easier for beginners to pick up than you might expect. Start off with just an hourlong rental from Kostal Paddle in Manhasset Bay and see how you fare. Or, if you think you’ll need a more hands-on learning experience, book a lesson to get the lowdown from a local guide.

Tubing on the Navesink River

Looking for a more relaxing day out? Join Northeast Mountain Guiding for a float down the Navesink River on a tube. Bobbing along the serene waters is the perfect way to wash away your cares and worries. And since it’s just an hour outside of the city, it’s the perfect activity if you’re short on time.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ ScubaBear68

Fall outdoor adventures

Biking to a craft brewery in the Hudson Valley

After the city stopped passenger service on the the Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad in 1958, the train tracks became a rail trail perfect for cyclists. Bike the northernmost 35 miles of the trail on this day outing with Gotham Bicycle Tours. You’ll start out in Brewster, then bike south under a shady canopy of trees until you reach Captain Lawrence Brewing Company in Elmsford. Sample 10 of their craft beers and raise a glass to the journey before heading back into the city!

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Forsaken Fotos

Foraging in Saxon Woods

This 700-acre park in Westchester County was named after William Saxton, an early settler who had a saw mill on the western branch of the Mamaroneck River. Though the park contains an 18-hole golf course, swimming pool and other amenities, a large portion of it remains undeveloped. Meet up with self-described “Wildman” Steve Brill to explore the forested area and forage for wild mushrooms, edible roots and herbs along the way.

Ziplining through the trees at Mountain Creek Resort

In the warmer months, Mountain Creek Resort turns its slopes into a zipline course. Put on a harness, clip onto the line and zoom over a mountaintop lake on this heart-pounding tour. You’ll take in jaw-dropping views of the Tri-State Area as you fly along a series of four ziplines. The day with an off-road ride down the mountain in a Mercedes Unimog truck for even more adrenaline-pumping action.

Rock climbing at the Delaware Water Gap

Don’t learn to climb on some lame indoor course—get out into the wilderness to experience the real deal. New Jersey’s biggest and best multi-pitch climbing area—Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area—is the perfect place for you to put your climbing and belaying skills to the test. Northeast Mountain Guiding only employs experts certified by the Professional Climbing Guide Institute, so you know you’re learning from the best of the best.

Winter outdoor adventures

Snowshoeing in the Adirondacks

Okay, so snowshoeing isn't the most death-defying sport you can partake in the snow, but it's pretty intense on the old leg and arm muscles. Or at least it can be. That's the beauty of snowshoeing: you can put in as much or as little effort as you like. After all, it's basically walking. If you're new to the sport, head up with a guide, who will show you how to pick your shoes and teach you the best ways to stride through the chilly white stuff.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ Howard Kang

Hiking in the Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Some parks look dead in the winter, but this 23,000-acre preserve offers dramatic scenery year-round. Minnewaska is known for its lakes and waterfalls that turn into dramatic icescapes when the temperature drops. Hike along 25 miles of footpaths and 35 miles of well-maintained carriage roads. Keep an eye out for guided hikes, such as a three-mile trek with a stop at Awosting Falls, which environmental educator Laura Conner says “looks like a frozen volcano in winter.”

Cross-country skiing at Lapland Lake Nordic Vacation Center

Leave it to the pros to set up a world-class cross-country-skiing destination. This spot was founded by former Olympian Olavi Hirvonen and his wife, Ann. Ski along more than 30 miles of paths through the Adirondack Forest Preserve. You can also try a kicksled—a man-powered vehicle in which one person sits while the other pushes ($20/day).

Snow tubing at Hunter Mountain

These rubbery looking contraptions may look like they belong on water more than snow, but trust in the fun about to be had. You'll experience screams of pure joy (and maybe a pinch of terror) as thse tubes hurtle down the slopes – or shoots – of which there are 24, each at 1,000 feet long. No skills required: simply sit and let gravity take its course.

Ice climbing with Alpine Endeavors

The folks at Alpine Endeavors literally wrote the book on this activity in the area ( An Ice Climber’s Guide to the Catskill Mountains ). So who better to lead you up the slippery facade of the Shawangunks? Guides will pick you up from the Poughkeepsie Metro-North station, set you up with lunch, and drive you to and from the best ice-climbing spots in the region. They’ll also provide all of the necessary equipment. Beginner? Instruction is included for parties of three or higher.

Everything at Windham Mountain

Is there any kind of cold-weather pastime that Windham Mountain doesn’t have in its Adventure Park? There’s tubing on a 650-foot-long slope ($20–$25); ice-skating on a 120' x 60' rink ($10, skate rental $5); and three-odd miles of trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing at nearby Windham Country Club. For kids, there’s a mini snowmobile park and a Euro Bungy, a hybrid bungee-jump–trampoline. But our favorite has to be the twin zip lines, which allow you to race someone down the 500-foot-long course while you’re 40 feet in the air ($10–$15).

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The best hiking near NYC

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Taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the city is a must—and what better way than to go hiking near NYC? 

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