Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of New York City? Below is a list of our favorite day trips from NYC. Whether you’re a local looking to explore more of the surrounding areas or a visitor eager to uncover hidden gems just a stone’s throw away, this blog post is your ultimate guide to discovering unique destinations and experiences just outside of Manhattan.
From charming historic towns to beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures, these day trips promise to be a highlight of any season. So, pack your bags, fuel up the car, or hop on a train as we unveil the most captivating and accessible getaways from the Big Apple.
Hudson Valley
There are a lot of great towns in the Hudson Valley to choose from for a day trip, including Nyack, Tarrytown, Cold Spring, Sleepy Hollow, and Beacon. Some activity highlights in the area include kayaking the Hudson River in Cold Spring, wine tasting at Reserva Wine Bar in Beacon, or going for a hike at Ardent Point in Garrison.
North Fork, Long Island
The North Fork of Long Island is accessible from NYC via car, LIRR, or Hampton Jitney (which has a ton of pick-up/drop-off locations on the Upper East Side). While visiting the North Fork of Long Island, be sure to spend some time strolling around the village of Greenport which has a variety of cute shops and restaurants.
The North Fork is famous for its vineyards: a few of our favorites are Sparkling Pointe, Croteaux, and Kontokosta Winery. After a day of vineyard hopping, be sure to swing by Briermere Farm to try one of their famous pies. For dinner, some great restaurants to choose from include Farm Country Kitchen, Noah’s, Lucharitos, and American Beech.
Hamptons or Montauk, Long Island
Located on the south shore of eastern Long Island, the Hamptons offer a plethora of towns to explore, including the relaxed Westhampton, Quogue, and Hampton Bays area with its stunning beaches and waterfront dining options such as Rumba, Cowfish, and Oaklands.
Moving on to the core of the Hamptons, you’ll find Southampton, Bridgehampton, and East Hampton, where the price tag is high and celebrity sightings are common. Don’t miss out on grabbing a bagel from Goldbergs and cookies from Levain bakery, and if you’re in the mood for a splurge, treat yourself to an outdoor dinner at the 1770 House Restaurant.
If you venture beyond the Hamptons, you’ll find the charming town of Montauk, the easternmost point of Long Island and New York State. With a more laid-back surf and fisherman vibe, it’s the perfect place to visit the lighthouse for incredible views and enjoy a Watermelon Ale from the Montauk Brewery.
Getting to Montauk and the Hamptons is easy with options such as the LIRR, Hampton Jitney, or driving.
Jersey Shore
When you think of the “Jersey Shore”, fake tans, fist pumping, and wild parties might come to mind. However, the reality of New Jersey’s shoreline is vastly different from the MTV show. With over 100 miles of stunning sandy beaches, charming towns, and lively boardwalks, the Jersey Shore is a true gem. To access most beaches, you’ll need a beach pass, which is easily obtained through the “Viply” app. Keep in mind that popular spots like Asbury Park and Avon by the Sea sell out of daily passes quickly, so it’s best to purchase passes the evening before your visit.
Fire Island
Fire Island is a 32 mile stretch of beaches located just south of Long Island. There are several different neighborhoods and beach areas to choose from including Ocean Beach, Saltaire, Cherry Grove, The Pines, and Kismet. Fire Island is accessible via ferry- check out the full ferry schedule here.
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park
Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park is an early 20th century 409-acre estate on Long Island featuring historic landscapes, art and collections. Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park is a beautiful place where you can go and observe the beauty of nature and art as well as take a tour of the different halls and collections. While there, be sure to check out the beautiful gardens and greenhouses: The Main Greenhouse and The Camellia Greenhouse. Prior to your visit, be sure to check their website for tour dates and to purchase tickets.
Old Westbury Gardens
Old Westbury Gardens is a Long Island estate which features a historic mansion and lovely gardens you can stroll. Old Westbury Gardens offers fun events such as Yoga in the Garden, Afternoon Tea in the Garden and Private Garden Tours. While visiting, be sure to check out the Cafe in the Woods. For tours, you can take a 45 minute guided tour of the Westbury House and the Gardens, or you can choose a self-guided tour.
Storm King Art Center
Storm King Art Center, located in New Windsor, NY, is a 500-acre open air museum featuring one of the largest collections of outdoor contemporary sculptures in the United States. With its hills and rolling meadows, your walk around this museum will be filled with beautiful art, nature and views. You can select a 45-60 minute walking tour of the artwork on the Museum Hill, or a narrated 30-minute tram tour of the highlights from the collection.
*Please note: reserving advance, timed-entry tickets is recommended to guarantee entry at your preferred time. For the Tram Tours, seating is limited to 45 people and is first come, first serve.
Mystic, Connecticut
Mystic, Connecticut is a charming town filled with history. While visiting Mystic, be sure to check out the Mystic Seaport, Mystic Aquarium, Historic Downtown Mystic and Olde Mistick Village. In addition, Mystic features high-end boutiques which make for the perfect shopping day. While in Mystic, be sure to dine or drink at Port of Call, Friar Tuck’s Tavern, and the famous Mystic Pizza.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is a very short train ride from NYC and makes for a great day trip. As we know, Philly is known for their delicious Philly Cheesesteaks (be sure to try Geno’s and Pat’s and let us know your favorite!), but they’re also known for various historic attractions. Be sure to visit the Liberty Bell, take a Tour of Independence Hall, and check out the Franklin Institute (science museum) and Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Westport, Connecticut
Another great day trip from NYC is Westport, which is located an hour and 15 minutes from NYC by train. While in Westport, be sure to visit Compo Beach, The Westport Library (which offers scenic waterfront views), and take a stroll through Sherwood Island State Park.
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