New York City United States Day Trips

Best Day Trips from New York City

Are you looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple for a day? Look no further! Here are some of the best day trip options from New York City:

1. The Hamptons, Long Island

  • Distance: Approximately 100 miles (2 hours by car or train)
  • Activities: Beaches, wineries, hiking, celebrity spotting
  • Must-see attractions: Southampton Village, Coopers Beach, Wolffer Estate Vineyard

Head to the Hamptons for a day of relaxation and luxury. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, visit local wineries, and hike through the scenic trails.

2. Bear Mountain State Park

  • Distance: Approximately 45 miles (1 hour by car)
  • Activities: Hiking, zoo, amusement park, lake cruises
  • Must-see attractions: Bear Mountain, Trailside Zoo, Seven Lakes Drive

Escape to nature at Bear Mountain State Park. Hike to the top of Bear Mountain for breathtaking views, visit the zoo, or take a leisurely cruise around the lake.

3. Cold Spring

  • Distance: Approximately 60 miles (1.5 hours by car or train)
  • Activities: Antiquing, hiking, waterfalls, craft beer
  • Must-see attractions: Main Street, Hudson Highlands State Park, Magazzino Italian Art Museum

This charming town on the Hudson River offers a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. Explore the antique shops, hike to nearby waterfalls, and sample local craft beers.

4. Princeton, New Jersey

  • Distance: Approximately 55 miles (1.5 hours by car or train)
  • Activities: Ivy League university, historic sites, shopping
  • Must-see attractions: Princeton University, Nassau Hall, Palmer Square

Visit the prestigious Princeton University and explore its beautiful campus. Take a stroll through the charming downtown area, visit historic sites like Nassau Hall, and shop at Palmer Square.

5. Sleepy Hollow

  • Distance: Approximately 30 miles (45 minutes by car or train)
  • Activities: Historic sites, hiking, Halloween festivities
  • Must-see attractions: The Old Dutch Church, Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, Philipsburg Manor

Head to Sleepy Hollow for a day of history and mystery. Visit the famous Old Dutch Church and Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, and explore the charming town’s many parks and trails.

6. Fire Island

  • Distance: Approximately 60 miles (2 hours by ferry from Bay Shore)
  • Activities: Beaches, hiking, bird-watching
  • Must-see attractions: Fire Island Lighthouse, Otis Pike Preserve, Cherry Grove

Accessible only by ferry, Fire Island is a tranquil beach destination perfect for nature lovers. Hike through the Otis Pike Preserve, visit the historic lighthouse, and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

7. The Catskills

  • Distance: Approximately 120 miles (2.5 hours by car)
  • Activities: Hiking, skiing, waterfalls, farm-to-table dining
  • Must-see attractions: Belleayre Mountain, Minnewaska State Park, The Graham & Co.

Head to the Catskill Mountains for a day of outdoor adventure. Hike through Minnewaska State Park, ski at Belleayre Mountain, or simply enjoy the scenic drives and farm-to-table cuisine.

These day trip options offer a range of activities and attractions to suit every interest. So why wait? Get out of the city and explore the best of New York’s surrounding areas!