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How to Have the Perfect Day at NYC's Rockaway Beach

Rockaway is now the coolest spot to hang out in New York — that frankly doesn’t feel like New York at all.

New York City may not be known for its beaches, but when the sweltering summer heat sets in, you'll want to be by the ocean. And one of the best places to spend a summer day is at Rockaway Beach, on a narrow peninsula at the southeastern end of Queens. Something about the Rockaways just hits the sweet spot: It's easily accessible by subway; the beach is totally free, spacious, and clean; and its uniquely laid-back crowd is neither the Hamptons nor the Jersey Shore — just a perfectly chill mix of beach bums, families, hipsters, and surfers.

As a self-proclaimed Rockaway early adopter (I've been riding the A train out to this beach haven for the past decade — yes, even when I lived two hours away in the far reaches of the Upper West Side), I've seen it survive the devastation of Hurricane Sandy in 2012, then bounce back and grow into the vibrant community it is today. After preaching the Rockaway gospel to anyone who will listen for years, the word has steadily gotten out about this unlikely urban beach town. With more restaurants and shops popping up each year to add to the appeal, and the arrival of the hip Rockaway Hotel solidifying its growing popularity, this once humble surf spot has become a summer destination in its own right.

Visit on your next free weekend, whether you're a longtime New Yorker, or just in town for the week. You'll be won over by the good vibes, the tight-knit community, and how incredible it feels to walk off the subway and immediately feel the difference in the ocean air. If you aren't already, you'll be a Rockaway convert soon enough. Below, the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Rockaway Beach.

Go to the Beach!

First thing's first: get your beach lounge on. This long stretch of clean, soft sand has something for everyone.

Go to 67th Street if you're looking for good surf, a chill vibe (there are no concessions on the beach, though there are several a block inland), or a little more space between you and your neighbors on the sand. Because of the waves here, beach patrol often restricts swimming at this end of the beach, but you can typically go in for a quick dip unbothered. Even if you have zero interest in getting in the water, this is a perfect place to marvel at other people catching waves.

Head to the beach around 90th to 98th Streets for more of a scene, but expect crowds on summer weekends. Here you'll find eateries right on the boardwalk, as well as Rockaway mainstay Rippers, an open-air bar that often has live tunes.

The beach at 105th to 116th Streets is quieter, often uncrowded, and good for families: there's a paid parking lot by 116th Street if you're arriving to the beach with a lot of gear.

Take Surf Lessons

Surfing is what put Rockaway on the map and makes up such a large part of its singular New York surf town culture. It's also the perfect place for beginners to learn as the forgiving waves never get too big or too rough (of course, avoid going out during storms). Various companies offer surf (and SUP and skateboard) lessons at Rockaway, but Locals Surf School , founded by life-long Rockaway residents Mike Reinhardt and Mike Kololyan, is probably one of the oldest and most beloved. Operating out of black tents on the beach at 67th Street, they offer group lessons ($90 for two hours, gear included) as well as private lessons ($120). Instruction is offered year-round if you're willing to brave the cold, and the school's troop of teachers will enthusiastically — and patiently — guide you to riding some waves, even if it's your first time.

Check Out the Shops

Locals founders Mike and Mike also opened a coffee shop called Locals Collective that makes great espresso drinks, breakfast sandwiches, and açaí bowls to fuel up for a surf sesh, or just to veg on the sand — we're not here to judge. Pick up a logo t-shirt or sweatshirt so you can rep Rockaway back in the city (real ones will know).

Breakwater Surf Co. and Station RBNY are two surf shops that rent boards and wetsuits if you're a bit more seasoned and want to catch some waves on your own. If you're looking to up your surfer gal or guy style, both shops sell swimsuits and apparel from your typical surf and skateboard brands.

Pop into Zingara Vintage for an array of vintage treasures from books to board games, parasols to purses, and a highly curated selection of vintage clothing from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Owner Erin Silvers also magically transforms old terry-cloth robes into stylish bikinis and miniskirts and sells them at popups at local businesses in Rockaway and around New York.

For something more modern, browse the pretty displays of brightly patterned beach coverups, caftans, totes, and jewelry at the The Swellife boutique. In addition to designing and making all of the The Swellife jewelry, owner Katie Long also personally sources every item in the store, which includes unique handmade items from around the world such as Oaxacan woven baskets, Nigerian textile bags, and Moroccan leather sandals.

Cruise the Boardwalk

Get your steps in on the boardwalk, totally reconstructed post Hurricane Sandy and a pleasant place for a long stroll — all 5.5 miles of it — coupled with great people watching. Make a pit stop at the skate park at 91st Street to watch local skaters trying tricks in the bowls and halfpipes.

Rockaway Beach Bakery

For a coffee and quick bite before hitting the sand, Rockaway Beach Bakery is a local favorite. Pastry chef Tracy Obolsky's fresh-baked danishes, loafs, scones, muffins, cookies (the list goes on...) are some of the best I've had anywhere in the city, but here they happen to be perfect for throwing in your tote to munch on while you work on that tan. For breakfast, how does one choose between the flaky ham & swiss everything croissant, the stacked smoked salmon croissant-wich, and the biscuit BEC with a gooey fried egg? Just come back to try them all.

Boardwalk Bagel & Delicatessen

Though bagel bloat might not sound like the best way to start off a beach day, I'd be remiss not to include this great deli — and hey, you're in New York. Bagels on a weekend morning are religion, bathing suit or not. Like any New Yorker, I take my bagel recommendations seriously and Boardwalk makes one fine hand-rolled, boiled, then baked breakfast delight: a perfectly crisp shell with a chewy, doughy interior.

Boardwalk Eateries

If you find yourself peckish even after a generously-portioned breakfast sandwich, the eateries along the boardwalk will keep you from getting hangry before heading home or before your group makes the pilgrimage to Tacoway (see below). At 106th Street you'll find an outpost of Caracas Arepas Bar that does the famous East Village eatery justice with its Venezuelan stuffed corn cake sandwiches. At the 97th Street concessions stands, Edible Island serves fresh poke bowls, a perfect light beach lunch, and Red Hook Lobster Pound satiates the lobster roll craving that inevitably comes with being by the ocean. Rippers , near 90th Street, grills up surprisingly decent burgers, hot dogs, and fries, and the frozen sangria hits the spot after hours in the sun.

Tacoway Beach

There is no better place for post-beach nourishment than at Tacoway Beach , and there is no better order than the lightly battered whitefish tacos with pickled veggies and guac. (Vegetarian and chorizo options are available as well.) Tacoway can get crowded on weekends, but it's a small price to pay for the best fish tacos in New York City.

This iconic Rockaway taco shack started frying up tacos out of a humble sidewalk location a decade ago, arguably starting the burgeoning food scene in the Rockaways. It's now found a much bigger home in the yard adjacent to Rockaway Beach Surf Club , with long communal tables and a space for bands to play. Inside the Surf Club you can purchase drinks to wash down the tacos and elote, and can often find local artists' work on display. They also host a yearly Women's Surf Film Festival as part of their mission to celebrate Rockaway's uniquely surf-meets-urban culture.

Rockaway Brewing Company

As a surf community, it was only a matter of time before craft beer found its home in Rockaway. Started by locals who began homebrewing in their backyards so that, according to the website, "they'd have something to sip on after a day of surfing," Rockaway Brewing provides exactly that — an expansive taproom and front yard with picnic tables and high tops to throw back a few cold ones after a day at the beach. They also host food residencies and pop-ups (tacos, pizza, burgers, and brats), and live music on weekends.

Super Burrito

It's hard to say if there's a better beach meal than burritos. They're self-contained, easy to eat, don't require silverware, and just feel right when eaten by the ocean. The ones at Super Burrito are jam packed with super tasty, quality ingredients, and could likely feed a small family. Don't sleep on the excellent shrimp burrito if they have it on the menu that day. If you don't trust your ability to house a burrito without getting beans and sour cream all over your towel, or need the proper Valentina hot sauce ratio on every bite (crucial burrito-eating strategy), visit their newly-opened indoor spot on the 69th Street strip, completely decked out in fun retro 80s decor.

One cuisine you wouldn't necessarily associate with the beach is Uzbek food, yet here we are. This Rockaway institution makes for a great stop for dinner before heading home and a perfect place to try this rather esoteric Central Asian cuisine. Start off with the baked patties ( bichaki ) and dumplings ( manti ) filled with delicately seasoned meats and vegetables, or refreshing salads with dill, feta, and yogurt. The classic beet borscht and a traditional Uzbek rice dish called plov are also must-tries.

Whit's End

Although it looks like a punk-rock record store from the outside, and a hunting lodge meets dive bar on the inside, if you find yourself in Rockaway for dinner and want to experience a real local's joint, head to Whit's End . The irreverent chef/owner Whitney Aycock makes the area's best wood-fired pizzas, with interesting flavor combos to boot (pork belly, peaches, and hot honey is a recent invention). But the rotating fresh seafood dishes (Aycock butchers his own daily catches), ranging from the signature smoked bluefish dip to scallop tartare to crispy-skinned sea bass, are highlights as well and shouldn't be missed. Several nights a week they also host a variety of live entertainment: bands, magic and burlesque shows, and DJ sets.

Where to Stay

The rockaway hotel.

Rockaway has been sorely lacking in accommodations — until now. With the opening of the chic Rockaway Hotel in the summer of 2020, this is far and away the best place to spend the night. With a buzzy pool surrounded by loungers and cabanas, a leafy rooftop bar where DJs spin sunset sessions, daily fitness classes on the roof deck, and gorgeous airy design throughout (pampas grass, blonde wood, and rattan abound), a getaway here truly feels like you've escaped busy New York City life and arrived at a destination beach resort. The staff's impeccable and attentive service adds to the blissed out feeling of being on a vacation — even though you're just a subway ride away from home.

When the beach gets a bit too windy (as it so often does in the afternoons at Rockaway), or you're ready for cocktail hour, the pool deck is the perfect place to lounge away the afternoon. Afterwards, grab a seat at the beautiful wood-paneled bar at the hotel's restaurant Margie's, and enjoy a seafood tower of fresh oysters, snow crab claws, and lobster tail. Before you leave, be sure to check out Tunie's in the lobby, a beautifully curated shop with swimwear, summer gear, and knick knacks from local Rockaway brands.

With the Rockaways' growing popularity comes a growing inventory of apartments available to rent on Airbnb . The Arverne community, on the eastern end of the beach, has newly-constructed condos with fenced in yards perfect for post-beach grilling and chilling, and some even boast roof decks. Here you'll have easy access to the surfing beach and a huge Stop & Shop supermarket (a true luxury for New York city dwellers) to stock up on provisions.

How to Get There

Hop on the A train to Far Rockaway and ride it directly to Beach 67th Street — and you're there! Or get off at Beach Channel station and stay on the platform to wait for the S shuttle train that will bring you to Beach 90th, 98th, 105th, or 116th Streets. The A trains that go all the way to Far Rockaway only run about every 20-plus minutes, so be on the lookout that you're boarding the right train.

A ferry to Rockaway runs from Pier 11/Wall Street in the Financial District, stops at the Brooklyn Army Terminal in Sunset Park, then goes to Beach 108th Street in Rockaway, giving you a mini tour of the New York City coastline and some lovely ocean breezes on your way down to the beach. It takes about an hour, but capacity is limited, so on busy weekend days you may have to wait for more than one ferry to board.

If you drive, or manage to convince your friend of a friend with a car to take a trip out to Rockaway (highly recommended), try to get there early in the day on summer weekends. Street parking, which is free, can be tough to come by as it's used by area residents.

If riding a coach bus with cold drinks of the alcoholic variety sounds appealing, recruit some friends and take the OvR Rockaway Beach Bus , with pickups in Soho and Williamsburg.

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The 11 Best Beaches Around NYC

By Laura Dannen Redman and Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Urban beaches don't have to be concrete slabs overlooking a river (no shade to the East River, but East Coasters can do better). Within two hours—okay, maybe three, #traffic—of Manhattan, you can find classic boardwalks, tiny seaside towns, and sandy beaches that'll make you forget about the Caribbean , even if just for a moment. As you gear up for your post-vax summer consider a beach escape to Queens, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Long Island, or—gasp—New Jersey. All these beaches work for day trips from the city, though we’d never say no to a weekend getaway. Here are the best beaches around NYC.

This article has been updated with new information.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

Asbury Park—so hot right now. Pack a playlist full of Springsteen and take NJ Transit (with a changeover at Long Branch) 111 minutes to Asbury, home of a revitalized boardwalk, classic rock at the Stone Pony, a growing foodie scene, and the brand-new Asbury Hotel with its very buzzy rooftop bar (locals love it). If you arrive later in the day, bring your pup to Wonder Bar’s Yappy Hour , where dogs can go off-leash while you enjoy a cocktail.

Sandy Hook, Gateway National Recreation Area

Those who scoff at New Jersey (we know you’re out there) are missing out. Sandy Hook, a Gateway National Park at the northern tip of the Jersey Shore, has something for everyone: wide, sandy beaches manned by an army of lifeguards; fishing and nature walks; history (the oldest operating lighthouse in the U.S. is more than 250 years old); and the ever-popular nude beach Gunnison. It’s a 45-minute ride on the Seastreak ferry from downtown Manhattan to the beach, with views of the city skyline the whole way.

Rockaway Beach, New York

Rockaway is back following the damage of Hurricane Sandy, and many of the most interesting developments are happening off the sand. Take the $7-each-way NYC Beach Bus from Union Square or Brooklyn, rent a surfboard, then stop for tacos at the Rockaway Beach Surf Club , check out art at hipster gallery Topless, and have a late-night drink at the upscale crash pad Playland Motel.

Orchard Beach

This mile-long, half–moon slice of Pelham Bay Park is the Bronx’s only public beach, and it’s a popular spot. Long known as the “Riviera of New York,” it comes with snack bars and picnic areas, two playgrounds, and 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball.

Hannah Towey

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Steph Koyfman

Coney Island

It’s hard to find a picture of Coney Island in the heat of summer that doesn’t look like a still from Jaws —packed beaches, crowded surf. It can be terrifying. But visiting the Brooklyn boardwalk, eating a Nathan’s hot dog, riding (or watching people ride) the Thunderbolt rollercoaster in Luna Park, and carving out a spot on the beach is still an everyone-should-try-it New York experience.

Long Beach, New York

Rebuilt in 2013 post-Hurricane Sandy, the Long Beach boardwalk is just one reason to take the easy 50-minute train ride from Manhattan out. The surfable waves are another. Keep in mind that a day pass onto the beach will cost you $12, but you can check lirr.org for occasional One-Day Getaway deals that include a rail ticket, beach pass, and coupon to participating local vendors all for $22. Either way, the laid-back out-of-city feel makes the price worth it.

Main Beach, East Hampton

Oh, the Hamptons . We could put together an entire slideshow devoted to Long Island's South Fork. Bumper-to-bumper traffic delivers you to a beach for all tastes: Mecox Beach in Bridgehampton and Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett for families, Gibson Beach in Sagaponackfor the finely attired. Main Beach in East Hampton (pictured) has topped a national best beach list —and what's not to like?

Ocean Grove, New Jersey

For those seeking some nostalgia with their beachgoing (think, the opposite of Jones Beach concerts or Rockaway’s Insta-worthy hype), Ocean Grove is your spot. This relatively quiet stretch of the Jersey Shore is less than a 90-minute drive from midtown, and couldn’t feel further! A relaxing stretch of beach is supplemented by a boardwalk and two nearby lakes, plus a walkable town with plenty of ice cream to keep you sated for the drive home.

Kismet Beach, New York

Part of the Fire Island National Seashore, Kismet Beach is a quick ferry trip from Bay Shore (which is itself a 45 minute train ride from Jamaica, Queens), or a short walk after driving to Robert Moses State Park. Vehicles aren’t allowed on most of Fire Island, making it the perfect getaway for those sick of city traffic. Kismet is often less densely populated than Robert Moses, with low crashing waves and plenty of fresh air.

Greenwich Point Park, Connecticut

An hour and a half drive or quick Metro North trip from Grand Central, this 147.3-acre park and beach is the best way to enjoy the high taxes of Greenwich, Connecticut without paying them yourself. Non residents are charged a $9 day fee to enjoy manicured sandy areas, pavilions, grills, picnic tables, a saltwater fishing area, a dog area and more.

South Beach, Staten Island, New York

You don’t have to book a trip to Miami to find yourself on a spring break worthy getaway. Bonus: It’s within walking distance of some excellent pizza joints. Staten Island, sometimes the forgotten borough, is an island, afterall, surrounded by waterfront, much of which is manicured for optimal tanning and dips in the Atlantic. Just hop on the Staten Island Ferry and soon enough your toes will touch the sand as you work up your appetite for a quality New York slice with a game of beach volleyball.

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15 Best Beaches in New York City + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 15 Best Beaches in New York City + MAP

While the Big Apple is known as an urban jungle, it’s possible to escape the concrete and skyscrapers at one of the beaches in NYC . You can find sandy pockets of relaxation across NYC’s five boroughs and even more beaches near New York City if you’re willing to drive a bit. Specially, you will find the best spots to relax in the two boroughs that are part of Long Island : Brooklyn and Queens.

Moreover, the best beaches in New York have all the convenient amenities you’d expect, including picnic areas and lifeguards. Many of these oases also have playgrounds and areas for fishing, swimming, and water sports.

So, whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to sunbathe and appreciate nature, or you prefer an inexpensive, family-friendly beach vacation, you can find it here. In this guide, you’ll find the 15 best beaches in Queens, Brooklyn, and the surrounding NYC neighborhoods. I’ll also share some top accommodations to help you plan your perfect beach vacation from NYC .

1. Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, one of the best beaches in NYC

Brighton Beach is one of the top beaches in Brooklyn, New York . If you’re looking for a clean, uncrowded beach, with a unique charm, check this one out.

In the 1970s, Russian immigrants flocked to this part of Brooklyn, and their Eastern European influence is still apparent today in the bakeries, restaurants, and shops. It’s worth strolling along the boardwalk to people-watch, nibble on Russian snacks, or dip into a surf shop for last-minute items. You’ll also find a few parks and playgrounds here, including Brighton Beach Playground right along the boardwalk.

Overall, it’s nice to spend a couple of hours here basking in the sun and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean. If you want to up the thrill factor, you can always go next door to Coney Island, one of the most exciting things to do in Brooklyn .

• Where to stay : Best Western Plus Brooklyn Bay Hotel

2. Coney Island Beach, Brooklyn, another amazing New York City beach

If you travel southwest from Brighton Beach, you’ll find Coney Island , another well-known beach in Brooklyn, New York .

Coney Island Beach has a rich history as a seaside resort town, and while it had its heyday in the 20 th century, visiting it is still one of the best things to do in New York City . Along with its large public beach, there are also several parks, a skating rink, and an aquarium.

That said, Coney Island has one of the most famous boardwalks in NYC , thanks to its amusement piers. Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park are relics of the past, so be sure to check them out, especially if you have kids, since they are the most popular amusement parks in NYC.

Here, you can ride the Wonder Wheel, which opened in 1920 and features traditional stationary cars and rocking ones that slide on the Ferris wheel’s tracks. The B&B Carousell is over 100 years old and has a traditional roll-operated organ, while the Coney Island Cyclone was one of the first wooden coasters in the country.

During your visit, you must try a hot dog from Nathan’s Famous , which opened in 1916 and sold hot dogs for five cents. It’ll cost you more today, but it’s a Coney Island tradition!

• Where to stay : Best Western Brooklyn – Coney Island Inn

3. Orchard Beach, the most beautiful beach in the Bronx, NYC

Orchard Beach may be the only beach in the Bronx , but it’s a beautiful place to cool down, relax, and have some summertime fun. This public, artificial beach is part of Pelham Bay Park , one of the best parks in NYC , so you can rest assured that there is plenty to do here.

Sometimes referred to as “The Bronx Riviera,” Orchard Beach sits on the coast of Long Island Sound, offering lovely views, convenient amenities, and family-friendly facilities. In fact, this is one of the best family beaches near NYC since it’s clean, nearby, and has lifeguards on duty during the summer.

Speaking of which, the peak season brings all kinds of visitors, both tourists, and locals, so the beach can get crowded. That said, there are other things to do besides sunbathing on the sand. Orchard Beach has a waterfront promenade with a central plaza, shops, and cafes, as well as playgrounds, picnic areas, and various ball courts. Also, during the summer, the bandstand hosts free concerts on the weekends, so it’s one of the best things to do in The Bronx .

4. Rockaway Beach, a lovely beach in Queens, New York

Rockaway Beach in Queens attracts a more active crowd, so if you’re up for some fun in the sun, head to this NYC beach . Located on the Rockaway Peninsula, this beach offers all kinds of outdoor activities in NYC , although it’s best known as one of the few surfing beaches in NYC.

Along with surfing, you can swim, hang out at the skatepark, or stroll the boardwalk. There are also several parks and playgrounds here, as well as facilities for basketball, handball, and roller hockey. Also, if you’re coming here with kids, you’ll appreciate the accessible bathrooms and spray showers where they can wash the sand off.

This beach in Queens is open year-round, but it’s most popular during the summer season. While you’re here, check out Rockaway Beach Surf Shop , the oldest surf shop in the U.S. Along with all the gear you need to hit the waves, you can also book surfing lessons here.

• Where to stay : The Rockaway Hotel

5. Jacob Riis Park Beach, Queens, another beautiful beach in NYC

Jacob Riis Park Beach is another beach in Queens , NY that you should check out. This swimming beach is part of Jacob Riis Park , which was built over 100 years ago on the southwestern edge of the Rockaway Peninsula.

A distinguishing characteristic of this beach is its bathhouse, which historically served as the entrance to Jacob Riis Park. It was built in 1932 in the Moorish style, and Art Deco elements were added later. While restoration efforts began in the 1990s, the project was never completed. Along with the bathhouse, Jacob Riis Park Beach has a central mall, a boardwalk, a putting green, playgrounds, and sports facilities.

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do here, and if you visit during the summer, there will be lifeguards on duty. Restrooms and outdoor showers are easily accessible throughout the crescent-shaped beach, and the easternmost portion of the beach is popular among the LGBTQ+ community, as well as nudists.

6. Long Beach, Long Island, a great family beach near NYC

If you’re looking for one of the best beaches near NYC , look no further than Long Beach . Known for its pristine environment and array of amenities, Long Beach is popular among locals and out-of-towners.

This resort community takes up the central portion of Long Beach Barrier Island and consists of three miles of white sand beach. Its boardwalk was rebuilt after Hurricane Sandy and stretches over two miles, so take a stroll and enjoy the people-watching, shops, and food stalls.

Long Beach also has designated surfing beaches with lifeguards on duty, and you can even sign up for surfing lessons. If that’s not your thing, there are volleyball courts, restaurants, bars, and specialty shops for you to peruse.

Without a doubt, this is one of the best family beaches near NYC since you can enjoy bike rentals, outdoor showers, festivals, and a free concerts series during the summertime.

• Where to stay : Allegria Hotel

7. Manhattan Beach, Brooklyn, another nice beach close to New York City

At the southern tip of Brooklyn, to the east of Brighton Beach, you’ll find Manhattan Beach , a small and serene NYC beach . This little pocket of sunshine is another popular summertime destination for New Yorkers, and it has everything you need for a relaxing day away from the stresses of the city.

Here, you can bike or walk along the waterfront promenade, play tennis, volleyball, or handball, or take your kids to one of the playgrounds. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season, and there are ample spray showers and restrooms, so it’s a great place for families with children. Moreover, Manhattan Beach is one of the best dog-friendly beaches near NYC , as there are areas of the beach designated for pups.

So, whether you want to spend the entire day here, or check it out after visiting the other nearby beaches in Brooklyn, New York , be sure to add Manhattan Beach to your list.

8. Robert Moses State Park, one of the best beaches on New York’s Fire Island

Another Long Island favorite is Robert Moses State Park , one of the best ocean beaches in New York . It’s at the western end of Fire Island and brings in millions of visitors each year, thanks to its five miles of shoreline.

Robert Moses State Park is Long Island’s oldest state park and offers several green spaces where you can enjoy a picnic, practice watersports, or go fishing. The park also provides access to the Fire Island National Seashore , where you can see the Fire Island Lighthouse and Museum or visit the clothing-optional Lighthouse Beach.

As one of the best quiet beaches near NYC , this place generally attracts a calmer crowd and locals looking for a pleasant day trip from NYC. Pets aren’t allowed, but the beach has all the amenities you’d want for a comfortable beach day, including food stalls, beachfront stores, comfort stations, and private outdoor showers. There are also volleyball courts, a seasonal putting green, and lifeguards on duty during the summer months.

• Where to stay : Robbins Rest Retreat Vacation Home

9. Fort Tilden Beach, Queens, another incredible beach in NYC

Fort Tilden Beach is another calm beach in Queens , NY that most tourists won’t know about.

It’s next to Jacob Riis Park Beach, but it’s harder to get to, so it’s a more secluded alternative. The parking lots at Fort Tilden require a permit, so most people walk or bike the half-mile from Jacob Riis Park. If you’re up for a hidden adventure, Fort Tilden Beach will welcome you with open stretches of sand, minimal crowds, and the lulling sound of the surf.

Be aware that there are no lifeguards here, and you won’t find the usual amenities like umbrella rentals and beach shops. That said, the views are beautiful, with the sun glinting off New York Harbor and the Manhattan skyline in the distance. Once you venture off the beach, you’ll find old Fort Tilden , a former U.S. Army fort with bunkers, a historic battery, and abandoned military buildings scattered among the dunes.

10. Jones Beach State Park, a pristine beach in New York

Jones Beach State Park is another lovely place for a beach vacation in NYC . Located on Long Island’s southern shoreline, this is one of the most popular beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, attracting millions of visitors annually.

From its accessible amenities to its 6.5 miles of sparkling shoreline, Jones Beach stands out for its clean sand and family-oriented atmosphere. Here, you can go swimming in the sea or one of the public pools, as well as take a walk, jog, or bike ride along the boardwalk. The activities at Jones Beach include basketball, corn hole, mini-golf, pickleball, ping pong, and shuffleboard, so there’s something for everyone.

If you venture off the beach, you can visit the WildPlay Adventure Park, one of the playgrounds, or the Jones Beach Energy & Nature Center . It’s also worth seeing the 200-foot water tower in the center of town; its design was inspired by the Campanile of St. Mark’s Cathedral in Venice, Italy.

Overall, Jones Beach is one of the best family beaches near NYC , although pets are strictly prohibited.

• Where to stay : Jones Beach Hotel

11. Main Beach, East Hampton, a peaceful beach near New York City

For one of the best weekend getaways in NYC , head to Main Beach in East Hampton. This well-maintained beach is among the most popular summer destinations for New Yorkers and one of the best beaches in New York State .

This is also a great place to go as a family since there are lifeguards on duty, bathrooms, and outdoor showers by the beach. Adults will love the clean sand and clear water, while kids will delight in the treats at the snack bar and ocean waves that are perfect for boogie-boarding.

Along with its expansive shoreline, Main Beach has a central pavilion where you can buy beach items and grab a bite to eat, as well as picnic areas and volleyball courts. Nearby is Main Street, where you’ll find art galleries, cafes, shops, and a theater, so it’s an ideal place to spend your evening after a day in the sun.

• Where to stay : The Huntting Inn

12. Asbury Park, New Jersey, one of the best NJ beaches near New York City

While it’s known as the home of Bruce Springsteen, Asbury Park also happens to be one of the best NJ beaches close to NYC . Its shoreline stretches for about one mile, offering white sand and blue ocean waves. There are also convenient amenities like public restrooms, spray showers, beach umbrellas, and chair rentals.

Most people spend the day swimming and surfing off the coast before heading into town for some evening fun. The mix of surf, sand, and entertainment makes Asbury Park Beach one of the top beach destinations near NYC and one of the best things to do in New Jersey .

While you’re here, take a walk along the Asbury Park Boardwalk , which features cafes, a mini-golf course, playgrounds, and a waterpark. You can also see the former Asbury Park Casino & Carousel House, modeled in the Beaux-Arts style, and the Silver Ball Museum Arcade , where you can play classic pinball games.

If you’re staying here overnight, you’ll have time to explore the town, which is full of cute shops, restaurants, clubs, art galleries, and a movie theater. Depending on when you go, you might attend a music festival or other special event.

• Where to stay : The Asbury Hotel

13. Sandy Hook, New Jersey, another NJ beach near NYC that you should visit

Sandy Hook is another wonderful New Jersey beach that you should visit. Not only does it have seven miles of sprawling shoreline, but it’s also home to historic monuments, outdoor activities, and the peace and quiet you crave.

Moreover, this secluded beach near NYC is ideal for nature lovers since you can enjoy the surrounding recreational areas, which include holly forests, salt marshes, and hiking trails. A five-mile multi-use pathway is open to walkers, joggers, and cyclists, too.

Sandy Hook is a peninsular land mass that protrudes into New York Harbor, so it has both oceanside and bayside beaches. The ocean beaches boast views of Manhattan and the perfect waves for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Meanwhile, the bayside beaches have calmer waters, so they’re better suited to families with young children. Also, dogs are only permitted on the bayside beaches.

Besides swimming and surfing, you can go fishing, kayaking, scuba diving, or even visit the nudist Gunnison Beach to the north. If history interests you, be sure to check out the Sandy Hook Lighthouse , which is over 250 years old, and Fort Hancock, a deactivated U.S. Army base.

• Where to stay : Oyster Point Hotel

14. Barrett Beach Park, one of the best beaches near NYC

Barrett Beach Park is the place to go if you’re looking for seclusion and tranquility. Located on Fire Island, this beach near NYC is a little hidden gem. It’s only accessible by private boat or on foot, which keeps the crowds away and the noise pollution very low.

This area was once the resort town of Talisman, but it fell into disuse and finally underwent renovations in the early 2000s. Today, it’s one of the best quiet beaches near NYC , although it doesn’t offer much in the way of modern comforts or amenities.

That said, lifeguards are on duty during the summer season, and there are picnic areas and playgrounds along the shoreline. Barrett Beach Park is mostly known as a boater’s beach, and there are docking piers available for private charters. Even so, you can also enjoy the boardwalk trail or the park ranger-led programs and nature walks.

15. Cooper’s Beach, Southampton, a clean New York City beach you can’t miss

Last but not least, Cooper’s Beach in Southampton is a popular beach near NYC that’s lauded for its pristine shoreline dotted with historic mansions. This is a small beach that’s only open from May through September, but it’s known for exuding that luxurious air that you’d expect from the Hamptons .

As the main beach of Southampton Village, Cooper’s Beach is next to the town’s historic market and offers public restrooms, spray showers, beach umbrellas, and chair rentals. Lining the Atlantic Ocean, this clean NYC beach invites families and city dwellers to get their feet wet and enjoy the surf. Swimming, surfing, and bodyboarding are permitted, and lifeguards are on duty during the summer.

After enjoying the sea, head into town for something to eat and take a walk through the scenic streets lined with elaborate mansions and historic inns.

• Where to stay : Southampton Inn

I hope this guide helped you figure out where to go for your next beach vacation in NYC . Be sure to download this map with all the best beaches in NYC and the accommodations that I mentioned.

If you have any questions or you’d like to recommend a beach town near New York City , leave me a comment below and I’ll get back to you. Have a safe trip!

Ascen Aynat

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NYC Day Trips: The Perfect Rockaway Beach Day Itinerary

Recent New York transplants tend to frequently and loudly bemoan the lack of access to nature in the city, but longtime residents are well aware that there’s plenty of green space if you know where to look. From Forest Park to Meadow Lake, Queens has a lot to offer in the way of connecting with Mother Nature. Woods and wildlife are just the tip of the iceberg, though – when the summer heat sets in, there’s no better place to be than Rockaway Beach. More easygoing than the Hamptons, more authentic than the Jersey Shore, and closer to the city than both, Rockaway Beach offers the perfect escape for city dwellers.

Located on a narrow peninsula at the southeastern end of Queens, Rockaway Beach is free, spacious, and clean, and the local crowd is friendly and laidback. An easy train, shuttle bus, or ferry ride will make you feel like you’ve left the city behind entirely. The surfer town is rife with quaint shops, good eats, and casually vibrant nightlife, making Rockaway the ideal spot for a New York City day trip. Here’s an idea of what your day at Rockaway Beach might look like.  

Getting to Rockaway

Getting there will take a bit of planning, but there are several ways you can easily find your way to Rockaway Beach. 

Of course, if you’re one of the rare few New Yorkers with access to your own set of wheels, driving will be the quickest method of travel. 

The car-less majority of folks will want to take the A train, which stops at Beach 67th Street and continues throughout the town of Rockaway. 

You can also use the New York City ferry system for an extra-memorable trip. The Rockaway/Fort Tilden Express Ferry Service will pick you up from Pier 11 in Wall Street, Manhattan, or Sunset Park in Brooklyn and deposit you right at the beach. On summer weekends and holidays, $10 will get you a spot on the Rockaway Rocket Ferry, a quicker ride that begins at the Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Shuttle Bus

Another way to get to Rockaway Beach is by booking a roundtrip ticket ($39.95) through the OvR Rockaway Beach Bus. The shuttle runs every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day and includes perks like free adult beverages and exclusive deals at partner businesses in Rockaway.

Grab breakfast and beach supplies

Once you’ve arrived in the town of Rockaway, you’ll likely be hungry from your journey. Stop by the Rockaway Beach Bakery for mid-morning sticky buns, croissants, and quiche, or head towards Greenhouse Café for a caffeine hit and healthy breakfast to fuel up before your beach day.

If you’re low on sunscreen or beach towels, stop by Breezy Point Surf Shop or Rockaway Beach Surf Shop to stock up on essentials. Those who forgot to pack a beach read can swing by Avoid the Day Bookstore & Café to browse a wide selection of new and used books.

Hit the beach

Now that your belly and tote bag are full, it’s time to head to the beach. You’ll want to choose your spot wisely based on what your ideal beach day looks like.

If you’re looking for the best spot for surfing or a stretch of sand where you can sprawl out while maintaining plenty of space between you and your neighboring beach-goers, go to 67th Street. The waves are bigger on this end of the beach, meaning beach patrol frequently restricts swimming, but you can typically sneak in a quick dip. 

The beach around 90th to 98th Streets offers a bit more of a scene. This is a good place to stake your umbrella if your main goal is people-watching and easy access to boardwalk eateries and bars, but know to expect crowds in this area on summer weekends.

Further down, the beach at 105th to 116th Street is quieter, typically uncrowded, and ideal for families. The paid parking lot by 116th Street is where you’ll want to head if you’re showing up with a lot of gear.

Many New Yorkers come to Rockaway Beach for a relaxing retreat, but those looking for a more active experience come to catch some waves. Surfing is what put Rockaway on the map, and is a huge part of its culture. Since the waves are normally more laid-back than they are at many surfer’s havens, it’s a great place for beginners to learn. Look no further than Locals Surf School, operated by lifelong Rockaway residents Mike Reinhardt and Mike Kololyan out of black tents on the beach at 67th Street. They offer group lessons that include gear at $90 for two hours, as well as private lessons for $120. Locals Surf School is open year-round if you’re willing to brave the cold, and the instructors will patiently and enthusiastically guide you through the waves, even if it’s your first time. If you’re an experienced surfer looking to go it alone, head for Breakwater Surf Co. or Station RBNY to rent boards and wetsuits.

Time for a break! Let’s grab some lunch and window shop

You’ve spent a few hours on the beach by now, so take some time to stretch your legs and take in more of what Rockaway has to offer. The town has seriously upped its retail game in recent years: you can browse vintage goods, bedazzle your own tank top, and stock up on surfer-approved apparel.

Zingara Vintage offers a hodgepodge of antique treasures, from parasols to home goods, as well as a well-curated selection of vintage clothing. Owner Erin Silvers frequents pop-ups throughout Rockaway and New York, selling both items from the store and her own handmade bathing suits, up-cycled from old terrycloth robes. Browse through the racks of dresses and shelves of retro art and old-school board games, or just relax and enjoy the AC in the comfy lounge and vinyl room, where the Beach Boys will likely be playing on a loop. 

For something more modern but equally eclectic, take in The Swellife’s colorful displays of caftans and accessories. Store owner Katie Long designs and creates all of the jewelry, and personally sources all other merchandise from around the world, from Oaxacan woven baskets to Moroccan leather sandals.

Lola Star’s glitter bar, where you can bedazzle your own slogan tee or deck yourself out in metallic temporary tattoos, is always an enjoyable visit. The rest of their kitschy inventory ranges from postcards to leopard-print roller skates. They also offer events like sunset yoga, Sunday morning hula hoop classes, and pin-up girl makeup tutorials.

Looking for a sit-down lunch? Take in the panoramic views and live music on the Bungalow Bar’s waterfront deck. They offer classic beach-side fare like crab cakes, baked clam dip, seafood pasta, and fish sandwiches. If you’d prefer to grab something quick on your way back to your spot on the sand, swing by local favorite Super Burrito to pick up the perfect ocean-side finger food: a massive shrimp burrito.  

Take a sunset stroll along the boardwalk

As afternoon begins to turn to evening, fold up your beach towel and throw on your cover-up before heading back to the boardwalk. After beach-goers begin to filter out and before the nighttime crowd shows up in full force, the boardwalk takes on a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a relaxing walk after a day of catching rays. It was completely reconstructed after Hurricane Sandy, and the restored walkway offers some seriously top-notch people-watching, not to mention the quintessential boardwalk eateries and ice cream parlors.

Head towards 97th Street to enjoy a selection of concessions from mainstay vendors like Caracas Arepas Bar and La Cevicheria. Or, grab a cone from Steve’s Ice Cream to enjoy as you watch the sunset over the ocean.  

Have a big night out, Rockaway-style

Those able to spend an evening in Rockaway will get to see this sleepy beach town come alive at night. If you haven’t already filled up on beachside concessions, head to Uma’s for stellar central Asian cuisine or Whit’s End for wood-fired pies, fresh seafood, quality cuts of meat, and a rock n’ roll vibe. 

If you’re more in the mood for a nightcap and a good time, Rockaway has a host of bars where you can enjoy a beverage while watching the tides and chatting up the locals. Get a frozen pina colada at the newly-reopened Connolly’s Bar, indulge in local brews at Rockaway Brewing Company, or unwind from a day spent in the hot sun in the backyard of Sayra’s Wine Bar & Bier Garden.

Spending your evening in Rockaway might necessitate finding some overnight accommodations, and there’s no place better than The Rockaway Hotel. It’s more than just a place to crash: this boutique getaway has a full-service spa, heated outdoor pool, and a rooftop bar with a killer view.

Amanda Hampton

Amanda Hampton is the resident Queens authority at NewYork.Com. She has lived in Ridgewood since graduating from Emerson College in Boston, and loves helping people love the area as much as she does. Previously, she was the Editor in Chief of Your Magazine, an Emerson campus publication. She is currently working as a freelance writer and assistant talent manager. Some of her favorite things are live music, Victorian furniture, and soup, and as such, she loves finding new music and arts venues, antique shops, and ramen spots.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

18 Best Beaches Near New York City for Family Fun

Kimberly Miles

Home to some of the best beaches in the U.S., New York City is a wonderful place to spend a day or weekend splashing around with the family. From soft white sands and priceless oceanfront views to lively entertainment and celebrity sightings, here’s where you can find 18 of the best beaches near NYC.

There’s lots of fun to be had when traveling in or through the Big Apple with the family. New York City is home to some of the coolest skyscrapers, lively family entertainment, and also home to my eight year old son’s personal favorite: delicious New York style pizza!

But what many don’t know is that New York City is also home to some of the best beaches in the nation. So if you’re looking for something to do in NYC with the kids that includes sun and sand, you’ll want to add one (or more) of these 18 incredible beaches to your list:

Coney Island Beach

With three miles of sandy beaches, a boardwalk and amusement parks, Coney Island Beach and Boardwalk is an excellent year-round place to visit with the family.

Just 30 minutes from NYC, Coney Island is a great getaway whether you’re looking to relax and catch some sun, or get active and have some fun. In addition to fun in the sun and sand, Coney Island has plenty of activities to enjoy with the family. There’s beach volleyball, basketball courts, handball courts, playgrounds and fairground rides. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer season.

In the off-season, Coney Island is an excellent place to spend the day with the family and take a stroll down the historic Riegelmann Boardwalk . Luna Park is a popular amusement park with roller coasters, go-karts, an arcade and other fun entertainment for the entire family. There’s also the New York Aquarium , Abe Stark Ice Skating Rink and Mets baseball stadium to keep busy. And don’t forget to check out the historic 262-foot-high Parachute Jump, an iconic landmark in the area.

Coney Island is also home to the original Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog stand, so if you’re hungry, don’t pass up a visit to this beloved treasure!

Long Beach is a 50-minute train ride away from Manhattan on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR). Located on Long Island, its sandy beaches and iconic boardwalk make it a wonderful place to spend a beach day while in NYC.

Long Island’s soft white sands make an ideal place for sunbathing and sinking your toes in the sand, or splashing around in the waves. If you don’t want to drag your own chairs or umbrellas, you can rent your own from one of the beach vendors. It’s also a great place to pick up a game of beach volleyball, or even learn how to surf.

When you work up an appetite, head to “The Shoregasboard”, where you’ll have your choice of food trucks serving up dishes such as pizza, tacos, burgers and lobster rolls. There’s something there for everyone, including kids with a picky appetite like my son. You’ll also find several delicious eateries along the 2.2 mile Long Beach boardwalk, which is a great place to take a family stroll or bike ride.

During the summers, a paid day pass is required to access the beach. However, residents receive a small discount on the pass.

Rockaway Beach

If you want a beach less crowded than the popular Coney Island, Rockaway Beach needs to be on your list. The largest urban beach in the country, Rockaway Beach is popular among surfers, swimmers and families looking to do a little of both. And, surprisingly, you’ll find some pretty good restaurants here too.

With six miles of shoreline, the waves at Rockaway Beach are a little rough. In fact, it is the only shoreline within city limits appropriate for surfing. For those looking to learn how to surf, there are a couple of surf schools nearby.

For the kids and adults like my son and I who aren’t so much into surfing, there are plenty of other outdoor activities and concessions to enjoy. The kids will keep busy for hours at one of the eight playgrounds. There’s also fishing, beach volleyball, basketball and a boardwalk that houses the area’s most popular taco food stand. There are also other delicious concession stands that sell hot dogs, burgers, lobster rolls and arepas.

SheBuysTravel Tip: One of our favorite things to do when taking a beach vacation is to hire a photographer for family photos. This is a special gift and souvenir that we cherish. We use Flytographer to book a local photographer located in the area that we’re traveling to. Use this link and you will get $25 off your photo session.

Orchard Beach, Pelham Bay Park

Formerly known as “The Riviera of New York City,” Orchard Beach is the only public beach in the Bronx. With a 13 section, 1.1-mile beach that sits on the Long Island Sound and a priceless view of City Island, it has certainly earned its place as one of the best beaches near NYC.

In addition to the breathtaking Orchard Beach shoreline, the Pelham Bay Park side has a hexagonal-block promenade, a pavilion, two golf courses, two playgrounds, two picnic areas and miles of hiking trails. There are also 26 courts for basketball, volleyball and handball.

Changing areas and showers available to clean up after a day playing and splashing around. The Orchard Beach Bathhouse, built during the great depression, is a designated historic landmark. When you get hungry, there are snack bars and food carts available.

Brighton Beach

Located in Brooklyn, Brighton Beach is also known as “Little Odessa” due to its Russian and Eastern European community and influences. Its beach and boardwalk are much more laid back than Coney Island, and you’re bound to find more local New Yorkers than tourists hanging out here.

Brighton Beach is also a great getaway if you’re looking for a relaxing beach day of swimming and people-watching. The boardwalk is a nice place to take a stroll and indulge in traditional ethnic Russian and European restaurants and food markets.

Jones Beach State Park

Located on Long Island, Jones Beach State Park is one of the best beaches near NYC for children and adults who love to swim and sunbathe. There’s so much to do at this park for all ages, it’ll be impossible for anyone to get bored!

With 6.5 miles of white sand beach on the Atlantic Ocean, this beach is great for surf bathing and stillwater bathing. In addition to its beautiful beach, Jones Beach State Park offers a wonderful environment for surf fishing. There are also two swimming pools.

But water activities aren’t the only thing to enjoy at Jones Beach Park. There’s also a splash pad and two-mile boardwalk to take a stroll or bike ride. There’s also the WildPlay Adventure Park where you can play outdoor sports such as mini-golf, shuffleboard, basketball, corn hole, paddle tennis, table tennis and pickleball. I know my son would be absolutely fascinated with the Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center where he can learn about the area’s marine environment.

At the end of the day when the family has worked up an appetite, there are many concession stands and restaurants to choose from.

Manhattan Beach Park

A great alternative to Coney Island, Manhattan Beach Park is a lively vacation and weekend getaway destination that was once reserved for just the wealthy. Now, it is a welcoming beach park with plenty to do and keep busy for all ages.

Located on the most southern tip of Brooklyn, Manhattan Beach Park is a popular summer vacation destination for families in New York City. On any given day, you’ll see families enjoying the sun, sand and water while having a picnic or BBQ. With two playgrounds, two large baseball diamonds and courts for tennis, basketball, volleyball and handball, there is no shortage of outdoor activities to keep entertained.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, this 2.5-mile Staten Island boardwalk and beach is one of NYC’s four most spacious beachfront areas. It has two main beaches: South Beach and Midland Beach. Both are among the best beaches near NYC.

The boardwalk itself features concession stands, restaurants, restrooms and showers to make your beach day a comfortable one. It is also adjacent to baseball fields, fountains, a fishing pier, roller hockey rink as well as shuffleboard and handball courts.

On South Beach you’ll have the Verazzano Bridge as your backdrop while you sunbathe and sink your toes in the sand. You can rent a bike and take a ride through a scenic biking trail, or take a stroll along the boardwalk where you’ll find the popular Fountain of Dolphins. There’s also activities such as tennis, kayaking or fishing off of the Ocean Breeze fishing pier. For the seniors in the family, there’s a park made just for them with chess tables, benches and bocce courts.

Midland Beach is connected via the boardwalk and is the least crowded of the two beaches and excellent for younger children. There you’ll find a sea turtle fountain as well as a playground. There are also tennis and shuffle ball courts.

Robert Moses State Park

With five miles of white, sandy shoreline, Robert Moses State Park is an oceanfront beach facility that packs plenty for families to do during a New York City getaway. This park is located at the most western point of Fire Island and is also conveniently located at the south end of the Robert Moses Causeway. Because of its location, it is the only part of the island accessible by car or bus.

Robert Moses State Park packs enough to keep the entire family busy during a day trip to the beach. With four lifeguard-staffed fields, water activities such as swimming, boogie boarding, surfing and surf-fishing are welcomed and popular among beach-goers. Anglers in the family will love the long piers for fishing or crabbing. Those with personal water vehicles will appreciate the day-use boat basin with a pump-out station.

In addition to the fun you can have splashing around on the beach, there are a number of dry activities including an 18-hole pitch & putt golf course, volleyball courts, a large playground and a scenic nature boardwalk. The boardwalk on the east side of the park connects to the Fire Island National Seashore and Fire Island Lighthouse. Nearby are the towns of Kismet and Saltaire that can be reached by foot.

If you don’t want to spend money eating out, you can bring along your own food and have a scenic picnic or BBQ using one of the park grills, tables and gazebo. You’ll also find concessions, shops, rest stations and four bathhouses with private outdoor showers.

Barrett Beach Park

Also located on Fire Island is Barrett Beach Park, once considered the “jewel” of Long Island. After 40 years of being run down and destroyed from tourism, it was completely restored by the National Seashore in 2003. It is now once again one of the best beaches in NYC, especially for boaters and families looking for a secluded piece of paradise.

Barrett Beach Park is centrally located on the island and is only accessible by foot, private boat or via a charter ferry service from Patchogue or Sayville. In addition to its beautiful waterfront views, families who visit the park can enjoy a boardwalk trail, picnic and playground area. There are also restrooms available for visitor use on the beach.

There are also family programs led by park rangers that cover topics such as shelling, nature walks and safe boating.

Asbury Park

A short 90-minute road trip from NYC, Asbury Park is a popular beach near NYC for swimmers, surfers, sunbathers and fishers. Since it is served by both public and private transportation, it is extremely accessible for visitors from both NYC and Philadelphia.

This beautiful mile-long beach has a boardwalk that is also home to mini-golf, playgrounds, live music, theaters, art galleries and water parks. When you’re ready to grab a bite or do some shopping, there are a variety of different restaurants and retail shops to choose from. If your child is as into arcades as my son, they will absolutely love the Silver Ball Museum Arcade. There you can find all the classic games such as pinball and Skee-Ball, as well as newer games.

During the summer, your family can sit back and enjoy fireworks on the beach while sticking your toes in the sand. Asbury park is also home to many events throughout the year, including the annual Oyster Festival !

Jacob Riis Park Beach, Far Rockaway

Located on the southwestern Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, this beach is nicknamed “The People’s Beach.” It received its nickname due to its easy access to public transportation– it can be reached by train, bus or ferry.

Three miles from Rockaway Beach, Jacob Riis Park Beach is one of the most popular NYC beaches. In addition to its mile-long stretch of swimmable beach, there’s also a golf course, ball courts, concession stands and a restored art deco bathhouse. One of the top beach attractions is The Bazaar, where you can find live music and events, games and some of the best food in NYC!

Fort Tilden Beach

For families looking to get away from the crowds at Jacobs Riis Park Beach, Fort Tilden is right up your alley. Although it’s a little tougher to access due to the permits required to park, active families who don’t mind the half-mile walk or bike ride from Jacob Riis Park Beach will find it well worth the tranquility.

A former military site, Fort Tilden Beach has an observatory deck on a historic battery with incredible views of the New York Harbor, Jamaica Bay and the Manhattan skyline. In addition to its coastal defense resources such as Battery Harris and the Nike Missile Launch Site, there are several other ways to pass the day including hiking trails, athletic fields, an arts center and theater. There is also a maritime forest, freshwater ponds.

The only downside is that there are no amenities or lifeguards at Fort Tilden Beach. In fact, swimming is prohibited.

Ocean Grove Beach

Located at the center of the Jersey Shore, Ocean Grove Beach is just an hour’s drive from Manhattan and Philadelphia. It isn’t just one of the best beaches near NYC, but is also a popular year-round beach destination for families on the east coast as well as international travelers.

With a mile of pristine beaches, tree-lined streets, parks and a busy boardwalk, Ocean Grove Beach gives family members of all ages something to look forward to. During the summer, there are a number of fun activities that take place on the beach including family movie nights, sandcastle contests and a biathlon. Anglers in the family can spend part of the day fishing if they choose. And if your family includes a furry friend, you can bring them during the off-season for a walk or jog along the beach.

When you want to take a break from the water, take a stroll through the downtown area. The downtown has a number of restaurants, gift shops and ice cream parlors to cool off after a hot day. Summers are packed with activities and events such as flea markets, walking tours, performances and arts and crafts shows. There are also tennis and shuffleboard courts.

Sandy Hook Beach, Gateway National Recreation Area

Located on a thin seven-mile peninsula in Monmouth County, New Jersey, Sandy Hook Beach is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Manhattan . With miles of sandy shoreline and a variety of activities for all ages, It is one of the best beaches near NYC for a family day trip to the beach.

Its expansive ocean is great for swimming, surfing, scuba diving, fishing and windsurfing. Lifeguards are available from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Families can also pass the day biking, hiking, or jogging along the 5-mile long, 12-foot-wide multi-use pathway. Nature lovers can pass the time bird watching or exploring the salt marshes.

If you’re hungry, you won’t even have to leave the beach. There are many mobile food vendors serving up a variety of food. Or, bring your own food for a beach picnic. When the adults are ready for some time out on their own, there is plenty of nightlife and restaurants to explore.

Sandy Hook Beach is also known for its historic landmarks, such as the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. The lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in America and is designated a National Historic Landmark.

Coopers Beach, Southampton

Frequently ranked as one of the top ten beaches in the U.S., this white sandy beach located in the Hamptons offers 500-feet of sparkling shoreline with an incredible backdrop of historic mansions and sand dunes.

There is a hefty $50 per day parking fee, but on the beach you’ll have access to full facilities including concessions, bathhouses with freshwater showers, and chair and umbrella rentals. If you have younger children, you’ll love the soft sand for sandcastles and gentle waves for swimming. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer for added comfort and security.

When you want a taste of the glitz and glamour, head to the South Fork area to shop (or window shop) at luxurious boutiques and eat at high-end restaurants. You may even run into a celebrity!

Main Beach, East Hampton

Also frequently ranked as one of the top ten beaches in the US along with Coopers Beach, Main Beach on the east side of the Hamptons is conveniently located. As one of the best beaches in NYC, it has all you need to have a relaxing and fun beach day with the family.

On Main Beach, you can find a pavilion, storage lockers, shops, restaurants, snack bars and refreshments. There are also bathrooms and lifeguards. If water sports are your thing, you can rent kayaks, surfboards and paddleboards. There are also lessons available for those who want to learn. On Main Street, you can find local attractions such as museums and an old-fashioned windmill.

If driving, there is a parking fee of $25. However, if you’re staying in the area and want to avoid the hefty parking fee, you can simply bike with the family to the beach.

Ditch Plains Beach

Located in Montauk, Ditch Plains Beach is a large beach most popular for surfing and swimming. Because it’s one of the best beaches near NYC it can get crowded quickly. However, if you visit in the off season, you’ll have the same beauty and more space.

Ditch Plains Beach is at the far eastern tip of Long Island and takes about 3.5 hours to arrive from NYC. Therefore, it may be better for an overnight trip versus a day trip. While it is one of the most popular destinations on the east coast for surfers, it is also great for sunbathers.

In addition to the incredible views of the cliffs from the shoreline, this beach offers seasonal lifeguards and concessions. Because of its long break, it’s an ideal beach for both newbie surfers and veterans.

Since it’s a part of the East Hampton town beaches, you’ll need a parking sticker if you plan to drive, but there is no cost if you arrive by bike or by foot.

Have you been to any of these incredible beaches near NYC? If so, which one is your favorite? Share in the comments!

6 beaches near New York: Where to go for sun, sand, and surf

Being on the Eastern seaboard, it makes sense that there are plenty of beaches within driving distance of New York. For city-weary New Yorkers, Atlantic Ocean beach destinations in New England , Long Island, and the Jersey Shore are welcome sources of respite from the hustle and bustle. Most impressively, however, is the collection of public beaches located across the waterfronts of the five boroughs. 

When you don’t have a full weekend to dedicate to driving up the coast, taking a train or bike to a New York beach is one of the best ways to spend a summer afternoon. Luckily, many of these beaches are accessible using public transit, have plenty of amenities, including beach bag and luggage storage , and have tons of fun activities for your day in the sun. 

From the Bronx to Staten Island, there are so many excellent beach options to choose from. Here are the best beaches in and around New York: 

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Brighton Beach and Manhattan Beach

Manhattan Beach and Brighton Beach are both located in the southernmost part of Brooklyn near Coney Island . While these aren’t as famous as the iconic Coney Island, these are just superb New York City beaches (and neighborhoods) to visit. 

Manhattan Beach is a quiet, residential area with a small beach that's popular among neighborhood residents and Brooklynites. Brighton Beach is a bustling, lively neighborhood with a longer beach than Manhattan Beach. It’s popular with both locals and tourists, as there are plenty of amenities. Brighton Beach feels more like a party, whereas Manhattan Beach is ideal for low-key relaxation on the water. 

Distance from New York City

Brighton Beach is located near the Brighton Beach subway station, which is served by the B and Q trains. Manhattan Beach is located a bit further east of Brighton Beach, but it's still easily accessible by public transportation. You can take the B1 or B49 bus to Manhattan Beach or take the Q train to the Sheepshead Bay station and then transfer to the B49 bus. If you're driving, there is also a large parking lot near the beach.

Activity recommendations 

Brighton Beach is also known for its lively boardwalk, which features shops, restaurants, and attractions. Additionally, Brighton Beach is home to a large Russian-speaking community, and you'll find many restaurants and shops that specialize in Russian cuisine. This neighborhood is absolutely worth exploring once you’re done soaking up the sun. 

Like any beach, the main attraction at Manhattan Beach is the water. Whether you want to swim, lounge on the sand, or play beach volleyball, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the water and sun.

Manhattan Beach is known for its excellent fishing conditions, and many locals and visitors come here to cast a line. The beach has several piers and jetties where you can fish, and there are also nearby bait and tackle shops if you need supplies.

Brighton Beach is most popular during the summer months when the weather is warm, and the beach is bustling with activity. However, be prepared for large crowds and higher prices during peak season. New York Public Beaches are generally open from Memorial Day weekend through the first half of September.

Coney Island Beach

Coney Island is perhaps the most famous of New York City beaches, and for good reason. The beach is about three miles long and offers a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular destination for everyone during the summer months. The beach also offers a boardwalk with plenty of restaurants, shops, and attractions. Coney Island is (literally) world-famous for its amusement park, which is adjacent to the beach, and features rides, games, and other fun activities.

Coney Island is located along the southern shore of Brooklyn. You can get to Coney Island from Manhattan (and the rest of the five boroughs) by subway, which takes about 45 minutes to an hour. You can always drive, but traffic and parking make the trip more complicated. 

Coney Island is most famous for its amusement park and boardwalk, which offer a wide range of entertainment options, including rides, games, and attractions like the Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel. Coney Island is also known for its beach for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Coney Island is also famous for its hot dogs, especially the iconic Nathan's Famous, which hosts an (infamous) annual hot dog eating contest on the Fourth of July. 

The peak season for Coney Island’s public beach is typically from Memorial Day weekend in late May through Labor Day weekend in early September, when the weather is warm, and the amusement park and beach are fully open. 

Orchard Beach - The Bronx 

Known for its unique crescent shape and boardwalk, Orchard Beach is the most popular public beach in the Bronx. The beach conditions are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and volleyball. The beach is over a mile long and is lined with a boardwalk that offers beautiful views of the Long Island Sound. There’s a great selection of food stands and vendors serving up Caribbean and Latin American flavors.

Orchard Beach is popular for live music and dancing, with frequent performances by DJs and live bands playing near (or even on) the beach. Orchard Beach has a rich history, dating back to the 1930s when it was built as a public works project during the Great Depression. History buffs still travel to the area to see historic landmarks and buildings along the beach, especially the iconic and well-preserved bathhouse.

The easiest way to get here from Manhattan is the 6 train to Pelham Bay Park Station. This is the last stop on the 6 train and takes about an hour from Midtown. From Pelham Bay Park Station, you can transfer to the BX12 or BX5 buses that go directly to Orchard Beach. You can take a taxi or Uber directly from Manhattan to Orchard Beach. The ride will take 30-45 minutes or even longer. This is the considerably more expensive option, and it might not save you as much time as you’d expect

Orchard Beach is a popular destination for beach volleyball, with several courts available for use. The beach also hosts several volleyball tournaments throughout the summer. Things can get VERY competitive on weekends, so you’ll have to show up early.

Orchard Beach is home to restaurants, food trucks, and stands that offer everything from classic beach fare like hot dogs to iconic Caribbean cuisine from the Puerto Rican and Dominican communities. The most popular is Vistamar. 

The beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, but you can take a walk along the beach if you’re exploring the neighborhood during spring or fall. 

Midland Beach and South Beach - Staten Island 

Midland Beach and neighboring South Beach are the two most popular public beaches located on Staten Island. They’re both solid options for swimming, sunbathing, and playing beach sports. Midland Beach has a boardwalk that's perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride. The boardwalk offers beautiful views of the water and the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge , which connects Staten Island to Brooklyn. The Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier is also a popular spot for casting a line and enjoying the epic views of the city. 

Subway and bus are the best options to get here if you don't have tons of cash to spend on a rental car or taxi. From Manhattan, take the 4 or 5 train to the Bowling Green station in Manhattan, then transfer to the S53 bus towards Bay Ridge. Get off at the Midland Avenue/Sand Lane stop, which is right by South Beach. 

The most fun method of transport is the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan to the St. George Ferry Terminal. From there, you can take the bus to the Seaview Avenue/Sand Lane stop, which is a short walk from the beach.

Uber and Lyft are also options and can take you directly to Midland Beach, but there will be traffic on the bridge, and these can be expensive on weekends. 

The Turtle Circle is easily the most adorable attraction near Midland Beach. It features a sea turtle fountain and several bronze turtle sculptures, and it’s a great spot for families. Midland Beach is also located very close to a few of the best attractions on Staten Island, including the Staten Island Zoo and the Staten Island Museum.

New York Public Beaches are generally open from Memorial Day weekend through the first few weeks of September. This is when the weather on Staten Island is truly excellent. 

Fire Island - Long Island 

Located on the southern portion of Long Island, Fire Island is known for having some of the best beaches in New York. The island is home to over 32 miles of pristine beaches along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, including both ocean and bay beaches. The beaches are clean, wide, and sandy, with crystal-clear waters and excellent surf conditions. It’s a popular weekend trip from New York for younger travelers, especially in the LGBTQ+ community, as it's famous for its vibrant nightlife and cultural scene. Recently, the island has enjoyed new notoriety for its portrayal in the comedy Fire Island. 

Distance from New York City 

The only way to reach Fire Island is by ferry or private boat, as there are no cars allowed on the island. The total trip should take less than two hours from Manhattan. 

One of the most popular beaches on Fire Island is the wide and sandy Ocean Beach, which is a great option for families and surfers. Other Fire Island beaches, like Kismet and Saltaire, are quieter and more secluded, making them great for a peaceful day at the beach. These beaches are surrounded by paths for hiking and walking as well. 

Fire Island is famous for its lively gay and lesbian communities, particularly in the towns of Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines. These towns have been popular summer destinations for the LGBTQ+ community for decades and offer a lively nightlife scene with restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.  

Fire Island’s beaches are generally open between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day. Keep in mind these weekends are incredibly busy, so a midsummer trip is ideal. 

Rockaway Beach and Boardwalk 

Rockaway Beach is a popular destination situated along the Rockaway Peninsula in New York City. It’s known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant and historic boardwalk. Its real claim to fame is being the best place to surf in New York, where the waves of the Long Island Sound create excellent surfing conditions. 

One of the best NYC beaches, Rockaway Beach is located in Queens and can take between 45 minutes to over an hour to travel by car or public transportation. The quickest way to get to Rockaway Beach from Manhattan is by taking the A train , which runs directly from Manhattan to the Rockaways and takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

Rockaway Beach is the most popular destination for surfers in New York City, with several surf schools and shops offering lessons and equipment rentals. While you may not associate the Big Apple with catching some waves, this is easily one of the coolest things you can do in the summer. On land, the boardwalk at Rockaway Beach is one of the longest in the world, stretching for miles along the coast. It's a popular spot for walking, running, and biking, and offers beautiful views of the ocean.

Rockaway Beach has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s when it was a popular summer destination for New York City residents. Today, you can still see several historic landmarks and buildings along the boardwalk and the surrounding neighborhoods. 

If you're interested in surfing, the best time to visit Rockaway Beach is in the fall, from September to November, when the water is still warm, and the waves are typically larger. For the full beach experience, Rockaway Beach is open from Memorial Day weekend through mid-September when lifeguards are fully staffed. 

For residents, you can easily hit all of the best beaches in New York in a single summer. For travelers, picking the closest public beach and spending an afternoon enjoying the sun, surf, and sand is a great way to live like a local, especially if you're visiting New York on a budget . Either way, Bounce has you covered for all your luggage storage needs in New York, so the only things you’ll have to worry about are remembering to put on sunscreen and whether or not to turn a beach afternoon into a prolonged weekend trip from the city .

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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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13 Amazing Family Beach Trips Within Three Hours Of NYC

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Cool down on a summer day by embarking on one of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC! Whether you’re looking for fun boardwalk activities to attract kids of all ages or want to recline in the sun all day, we guarantee there’s a beach nearby awaiting your arrival. Visit destinations along the Jersey Shore like Long Beach Island , Spring Lake , and Ocean City to take a nice swim, for example; or drive to Long Island for an alternative experience! Other destinations, like Fire Island and Bayville, present endless opportunities for family fun. Using contributor tips and advice, we’ve rounded up some of the best choices for our list of the 12 Best Family Beach Trips Within Three Hours Of NYC! With so many spectacular beaches within driving distance, it’s easier than ever to start planning your next memorable family vacation!

RELATED ARTCILE: Best Water Parks in the Northeast for Families (By Age)

Fire Island, NY

Fire Island provides a one-of-a-kind escape from New York City! Accessible via ferry from Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue, a no-car rule gives it a laid-back feel perfect for families. (Drive-in from Robert Moses State Park to see the famous Fire Island Lighthouse !) Certain communities like Saltaire, Ocean Beach, and Ocean Bay Park offer more kid-friendly locations for your home base. In fact, Ocean Beach boasts free access and playgrounds. Then, Ocean Bay Park offers bike rentals. Or, stroll the boardwalk to encounter other cozy communities within Fire Island , like Kismet Beach , featuring a nearby local market. In Bellport , kids savor ice cream from Carla Maria’s while parents shop at nearby boutiques like TOLA. Outdoor enthusiasts will also love visiting Watch Hill, a campground providing ranger-led programs to better acquaint you with the area. From there, walk to Davis to end your night at a delicious restaurant! 

Where to stay in Fire Island with kids: If Fire Island has allured you to its shores, you’ll want to find an amazing place to stay with your kids! Families can go for a day-trip from NYC, or rent a home from VRBO for a week or the whole summer! If you’re looking for a hotel, The Palms Hotel Fire Island offers standard rooms, suites, and cottages.

Long Beach Island, NJ

Long Beach Island is one of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC! This Jersey Shore hotspot boasts beautiful ocean views, high-end restaurants, and lots of family-friendly fun. Bike to Surf City or Brant Beach , sunbathe in Bayview Park (which also has a playground), open to non-residents and residents alike with a beach badge. Here, older kids surf or paddleboard while little ones wade in idyllic waters. Want a challenge? Climb the Barnegat Lighthouse ! Beach Haven, another popular section, is also famed for its Fantasy Island Amusement Park , which has rides, boardwalk games, and an arcade! At night, check out its summer concert series, play mini-golf, catch a show at Surflight Theater , or head to nearby Bay Village to stroll, shop, and dine. Then indulge in some local fudge from Country Kettle for dessert! 

Ready to head to Long Island Beach ? While ideal for a day-trip from NYC, it also makes a great location for a summer rental (stay for a week or the whole summer!). Visitors often rent seaside homes from sites like VRBO to enjoy access to the many kid-friendly activities in Long Island Beach .

Shelter Island, NY

Shelter Island is a secluded seaside destination ideal for families! Located off Long Island’s East End, this low-key island sits between the North and South Fork, accessible via ferry. Expect miles of gorgeous shorelines, abundant wildlife, and incredible natural beauty! Visit the public Wades Beach to lounge on smooth sand under umbrellas, or Crescent Beach if you’re searching for a less crowded weekend alternative. Toddlers can even blow off steam at the School Street playground ! Shelter Island also offers boating at Gardiners Bay, fishing at Second Bridge , or biking to see the scenery! Or, hike along the Mashomack Preserve, a nature center featuring interactive exhibits like a bird-feeding area. At Sylvester Manor, a historic farm, children can attend a summer program to learn about local indigenous communities. Then, The Islander is great for a family dinner! For dessert, gelato at Whale’s Tale and fudge at Bliss are a must.

Where to stay in Shelter Island with kids: Indulge in a long weekend or month-long in Shelter Island . Families looking for a hotel experience can consider Ram’s Head Inn , which offers a central location and activities like bocce ball, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Looking for something a bit cozier? Consider booking an oceanfront rental on VRBO .

Northport, NY

Visit Northport to experience old-school New York charm! This historic maritime village offers off-the-beaten-path beaches, a walkable Main Street, and a scenic marina overlooking Northport Bay . Kids will love the quaint ambiance at establishments like Tim’s Shipwreck Diner, a great place to grab a classic breakfast. After breakfast, head to the beach! Steers Beach is Northport’s home-base for sunbathing, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and more! They even have picnic tables for lunch. Afterward, stroll along Northport Village Park to watch boats whiz by the iconic town gazebo. Then, treat kids to a few hours at Cow Harbor Park , an enclosed playground for little kids to safely play! Of course, along Northport’s victorian Main Street, you’ll find plenty of places to stop for dinner or dessert. Plus, every Tuesday during the summer, Northport showcases a Main Street “family night” on the boulevard, headlining with live music, shopping, and more! 

If you’re looking to lengthen your stay in this charming village, considering finding a home to rent on VRBO . More days in Northport mean more opportunities to hit the beach and make a lifetime of memories together!

Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City is nicknamed America’s best family resort! Located two hours from NYC, you’ll find plenty of beach, boardwalk, and nighttime entertainment to keep you occupied here! Plus, its eight-mile-shoreline contains some of the cleanest sand in New Jersey, making it a great first beach trip with little ones. Regardless of which access point you choose, waters will be shallow enough for children to enjoy, as long as you remember to secure a beach tag! Ride your bike past souvenir shops on the boardwalk, grab a slice from Manco & Manco’s , and some ice cream for dessert. Or, stop into an arcade to beat the heat for a bit. OC Waterpark is another alternative! Thrill-seeking toddlers will love Playland’s Castaway Cove , an amusement park with kiddie rides ideal for preschool and under. Enjoy a family spin on the giant Ocean City Ferris Wheel when you visit the famous Gillian’s Wonderland Pier !

Families looking to stay in Ocean City typically prefer renting a house through VRBO . A long weekend means your family can continue to explore and delight in one of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC !

Bayville, NY 

Make Bayville your next Long Island family beach day-trip! This waterfront town is ideal for a casual adventure, particularly for active families who love spending their entire time outdoors! As a plus, Bayville’s two public beaches, Bayville Beach and Charles E. Ransom Beach, are both great for children. In fact, Charles E. Ransom Beach even features a few restaurants and rental shops along its pier. Take a tranquil hike to visit Centre Island Beach, where you can also canoe, kayak, and go rafting. Sound Side Beach Park , another enclosed nature area, contains a fishing pier, a playground, and a splash park! Of course, families visiting Bayville can’t miss its main attraction: Bayville Adventure Park! Play mini-golf, enjoy rides, or climb obstacle courses at this kid-friendly wonderland! Stop at Cantina Bay for dinner if you like Mexican, or Mill Creek Tavern for American. 

Long Beach, NY

Long Beach makes another short and sweet escape! Located on Long Island via LIRR or car, it’s one of the cleanest beaches nearby, perfect for a day trip or a weekend visit. Due to its lifeguards and calm waves, Ocean Beach Park is often a popular choice amongst families. You’ll also find plenty of other access points along Nevada Avenue and Pacific Boulevard. The nearby 2-mile-boardwalk also has a stretch of food trucks and picnic tables if you want to have lunch! Or, little kids can head to a local playground, like the spacious one on Clark Street . Older kids visiting Long Beach will particularly love its access to surfing, featuring plenty of rental shops and schools along its pier. Hungry families are also in luck. Head to Laurel Diner for an amazing burger, then end your day at Frozen Cow with some ice cream!

Where to stay in Long Beach with kids: Extended your time in Long Beach with kids by staying at Allegra Hotel , Long Island’s only oceanfront hotel. Standard rooms and suites are available depending on your family’s needs. If you prefer something with a little more room to spread out, considering renting a house from on VRBO .

Newport, RI

Take a family vacation in Newport to experience this dazzling seaside playground! Known for its Gilded Age mansions, marina with expensive sailboats, and walkable wharves, this Rhode Island destination is particularly popular during the summer. Families with young children will love swimming at the peaceful Easton’s Beach , whose concession stand sells some of the best lobster rolls in town. Don’t forget to ride the vintage carousel too! Then, saunter down its Cliff Walk to get a feel for Newport’s natural beauty, a 3.5-mile trail overlooking opulent properties along the Atlantic Ocean. If your kids are more interested in seeing one of these historic mansions up-close, however, tour one of many publically open options, like The Breakers or The Elms. Or, cruise the streets in a Newport Trolley for an educational tour of the area. Afterward, kids will delight in a visit to Newport Creamery or Newport Fudge!

Where to stay in Newport with kids: Families interested in staying a while will find an abundance of options in Newport . Consider Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina , offering standard rooms and suites. Go low-key with Newport Marriott , providing ocean-view rooms, some of which include balconies. Then, Ocean House includes a beachfront location. Finally, The Vanderbilt, Auberge Resorts Collection is just minutes from the waterfront. With so many options, you’ll be able to stay and play on one of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC !

The Hamptons, NY

With miles of white sand, there’s no doubt The Hamptons will impress any age! Stop in tranquil Long Beach if you have littles in tow, or Sagg Main Beach in Sagaponack Harbor if you have older kids who don’t mind a tide. Don’t miss the Sagg Main Monday drum circle ! Then, grab a slice from World Pie Pizza as well, and visit the famous Buddhaberry for frozen yogurt. Or, visit Hampton Bays , Meschutt Beach has calm waves and a snack bar to satisfy the kids! In East Hampton , visit Main Beach, or Atlantic, if you’re near Amagansett. Families staying in Westhampton will love the low-key Ponquogue Beach , which also hosts live music performances. Shock Ice Cream is a must-visit here! Cooper’s Beach in Southampton is also popular among families, followed by dinner at 75 Main . Remember most beaches require daily parking passes and tags!

Where to stay in Hamptons with kids: Most families reserve summer homes from sites like VRBO . If you’re hoping for a hotel stay, The Hampton Maid offers standard rooms and suites in the heart of The Hamptons. Then, Sea Crest Resort in Amagansett includes quick access to the ocean and seasonal cabana service.

*Thank you to Hamptons Moms contributor for helping us compile this section. 

Read about our recommendations for the Best US Lakes For Families To Visit During Summer!

Cape May, NJ

Cape May is one of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC! Summers in this New Jersey town are filled with long days in the sun and tons of kid-friendly fun! Visit Cape May Public Beach, offering funky architecture alongside chances to swim, build sandcastles, or dine alfresco at nearby restaurants like Mad Batter . Though not ideal for swimming, Sunset Beach has magnificent views in the evening! Nearby, you’ll also find Cape May State Park, a protected area housing native wildlife, a beach, and the famous Cape May Lighthouse. At the Washington Street Mall, the main shopping strip, stroll boutiques, enjoy live performances, or take in twinkling lights via a horse and carriage ride! Hotels like Congress Hall also usually host events for families, like game nights or movie nights. If you have more time to explore, visit the Beach Plum Farm or the Cape May Zoo!

Where to stay in Cap May with kids: Many families staying overnight in Cape May with kids select home rentals through VRBO or local realtors. However, if you’re looking for a hotel stay, consider Sea Crest Inn , which offers standard hotel rooms and two-room suites. Then, The Montreal Beach Resort is a family-run hotel providing standard rooms, suites, and kitchen suites. Finally, Carroll Villa Hotel is just half a block from the beach and has standard rooms and suites.

Wildwood, NJ

Wildwood’s vintage ambiance will appeal to your entire family! This Jersey Shore town’s 40-block-boardwalk contains miles of stunning beaches, family-friendly attractions, and daily events! (Programming like sandcastle building contests or outdoor movies are available throughout beach access points!) Most families rent property in Wildwood Crest, whose shoreline is clean, calm, and ideal for young kids. Wildwood is also famous for its boardwalk, which encases the massive Morey’s Piers Amusement Park , with slides, rides, and more. Cool down on a hot day at Raging Waters Water Park and Ocean Oasis Water Park & Beach Club! Wildwood’s boardwalk also flaunts arcades, an aquarium, mini-golf, bike rentals, go-karting, and Ripley’s Adventure Maze ! When sunset approaches, a view from north Wildwood’s Hereford Inlet Lighthouse will impress any kid. At night, grab a slice at Sam’s Pizza , seafood from Jumbo Seafood Grille , Beach Creek, The Wharf, or Jersey Girl , and dessert from Sea Shell Ice Cream ! 

Where to stay in Wildwood with kids: If you’re hoping to stay in Wildwood , consider options like The Adventurer Oceanfront Inn , Seapointe Village Resort , Port Royal Hotel , Pan American Hotel , and Fleur de Lis Beach Resort . Or, rent a spacious home from VRBO . No matter what your family’s needs are, you’re sure to find the ideal accommodations in Wildwood!

Spring Lake, NJ 

Head to Spring Lake for a quieter Jersey Shore! Families love this tranquil town, sporting a bikeable boardwalk and gorgeous central lake area for fishing, boating, or spotting architecture. Nearby, Divine Park also has an expansive tennis court open to families! Since no food is allowed on the beach, many families pack a picnic or visit nearby Asbury Park Beach, known for its restaurants, shopping district, and live music. Sunbathe or swim in Spring Lake via access points throughout the beach area, provided you purchase a tag. Families also love Third Avenue features, a cute commercial hub lined with boutiques, restaurants, and rental shops. Stop for a slice at Spring Lake Pizzeria or skip straight to Hoffman’s Ice Cream for some delectable dessert! 

Where to stay in Spring Lake with kids : Families staying awhile can find cozy, oceanfront accommodations on VRBO . Or, consider The Breakers on the Ocean , which is within walking distance of restaurants, local activities, and the Wildwood Boardwalk. Then, Chateau Inn and Suites offers a variety of rooms and suites, including kitchenette options.

Montauk, NY

Montauk is another of the best family beach trips within three hours of NYC! Located at The Hamptons’ very end, it is a walkable town, particularly for older kids. Teens who love surfing will enjoy Ditch Plains Beach , home to numerous surf schools, and plenty of waves to practice. Kirk Park Beach is also suitable for those with younger children. Every Wednesday during summer, The Surf Lodge also hosts a family night with live music, activities, and more! Montauk offers plenty of additional family-friendly attractions, too, like visiting the Montauk Point Lighthouse or exploring the historical Camp Hero State Park. Aside from hiking, Montauk is also a great spot for fishing, chartering a boat, or renting a bike to ride through town. Or, horseback ride at Rita’s Stable! Either way, stop at Crow’s Nest for dinner, which has a huge beach area for kids to roam!

Where to stay in Montauk with kids: Families looking to stay in Montauk will find no shortage of kid-friendly options! Consider hotels like Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa , located directly on the beach. Or, Hero Beach Club , which offers several spaces to curl up with a good book, like the beautiful beach, on pool-side loungers, or in the garden. Hotels like Driftwood On The Ocean , Beachcomber Resort at Montauk, and Beach Plum Resort are also worth considering

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No matter where you visit, we’re sure you’ll love your next summertime adventure near NYC! A special thank you to the Families Who Love to Travel Facebook community who helped to compile this list of 13 Best Family Beach Trips Within Three Hours Of NYC! Families Who Love To Travel is a group of amazing families who love adventure and exploring through travel. Join the Facebook community and the Instagram community to connect with other families who love the unique experiences travel has to offer. 

*Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many of the accommodations, restaurants, or activities on this list may also be closed or have reduced services. Please ensure availability before making your decision.

*This post   may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community. 

Best Cute Towns To Visit With Kids Near NYC

Best Kid-Friendly Summer Lakes Within 4 Hours of NYC

6 Stunning Family-Friendly Beaches And Swimming Holes In The Catskills

Best Beach Resorts in the Northeast for Families

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Beach Getaways Near NYC: The Best Beach Vacations Near the Big Apple

When you’re standing in the bustling heart of New York City , it’s hard to imagine that there’s surf and sand anywhere nearby. However, the Big Apple is perfectly positioned as a jumping off point to some of the most beautiful, popular, and action-filled beaches on the East Coast.

The swank and stylish Hamptons are just 100 miles east of Manhattan and there are sandy spots in nearby New Jersey , Connecticut , and Massachusetts  too – each with their own beach style and flavor.

We’ve rounded up a few favorite regional spots below.

Private beach getaway in a Montauk getaway

Situated on a pristine stretch of oceanfront in Montauk, the furthest point east in the Hamptons,  Gurney’s Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa  provides not only ocean views from every single room, but also the only private beach access in the area. Meaning you can enjoy an epic day on the waves swimming – or with surfboard, paddle board, and boogie board rentals – without crowds. In the evening, the private stretch of sand is a prime location for beach bonfires and toasted s’mores.

Off the beach, you’ll find an array of crisp rooms and suites decked out in a soothing nautical palette, as well as beach bungalows for a more secluded retreat. There’s also swank Scarpetta Beach, a chic Manhattan transplant serving upscale Italian dishes such as lobster  tagliolini nero  and raw fish  crudo  in a seaside setting. If you’re traveling with little ones, they can play at Gurney’s Kids Club while you enjoy a cocktail at the swank Regent Cocktail Club.

Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa

Swedish style in an east hampton getaway.

Although the Hamptons have a reputation for star-studded glitz and glamour, there’s a lighter side to these beach communities nestled in rural Long Island. In fact,  c/o The Maidstone  hotel in East Hampton is full of the kind of quirky style that most travelers would normally associate with hipster Brooklyn neighborhoods.

The 16 rooms and three cottages look like a series of white-clapboard houses from the outside, and the interiors are designed to be super comfortable, sporting ultra-luxe handcrafted Hästens Swedish beds and deep soaking tubs. However, it’s the décor that’s extra noteworthy here: each room is dedicated to a Scandinavian luminary. For example, a pink and grey striped guest room is a tribute to Astrid Lindgren, the author of Pippi Longstocking; another room with, as the hotel puts it, “lugubrious” dark walls and gilded mirrors pays homage to Edward Munch; a fabulous “Out of Africa” theme imbues the author Karen Blixen’s suite. Note that although safari animals aren’t present, dogs are always welcome at the property.

The restaurant at The Maidstone is one of the most popular in East Hampton for straight from the water seafood. Speaking of the water, each room here comes with a much-coveted beach parking permit (the only way to get close to the ocean with your car in The Hamptons as many beaches have no public parking). Another plus: everything you’d need for a relaxing beach day including beach bags, chairs, towels, and umbrellas.

co The Maidstone

Marina views in a sag harbor getaway.

Located in the historic port of Sag Harbor,  Baron’s Cove  infuses a boat-loving vibe throughout the boutique inn. Cozy up in the clubby lobby bar and lounge with a wood burning fireplace, catch a breeze on the wide front porch, or watch the sailboats from the sunny side veranda. You can also watch the water from the restaurant here, which serves up fresh seafood along with sweeping views of the harbor.

The resort is within walking distance from the local jitney stop (a popular way to get to the Hamptons from NYC) and is a short stroll from the town’s charming Main Street, so no car is necessary for your beach getaway. Choose a breakfast-in-bed package to start the day with pancakes in luxurious, water-hued rooms that sport harbor views, village vistas, or private garden terraces – the latter of which makes it easy to bring Fido with you on your beach vacation.

There’s also a heated saltwater pool with harbor lookouts, a tennis court, spa services, complimentary bikes to explore the area, and a free beach shuttle right to the sand, along with towels, chairs, and umbrellas.

Baron'S Cove

Spa by the sea in a westbrook, ct getaway.

Facing the Long Island Sound,  Water’s Edge Resort & Spa  is roughly 100 miles from Manhattan, the same distance as The Hamptons. Head to this resort in Connecticut when you’re looking for pampering luxury at the beach.

The spa here is one of the largest in the area, and you can splash out with shore-inspired treatments, such as sea salt and lavender body polish or a seaweed wrap. Another plus to the posh resort is a private beach exclusively for hotel guests, not to mention both indoor and outdoor pools with views of the ocean.

Choose an ocean-view room to watch the waves roll in without having to get out of bed; villas by the sea get you even closer to the surf and offer two-bedrooms and two-bathrooms, plus gas fireplaces and kitchens with high-end Viking appliances. Not that you have to cook when you’re here. There are four different dining options, including Datillo’s for upscale Italian and the casual al fresco Sunset Bar & Grill.

Water's Edge Resort & Spa

Wining and dining in a long branch, nj getaway.

If you’re not familiar with New Jersey , you’ll find two big surprises when you arrive in Long Branch. First, this is not the “Jersey Shore” you’ve seen on television. Long Branch is a sophisticated beach town with an array of fantastic dining options (don’t miss Avenue for French bistro classics and McLoone’s for fresh seafood) raised above the sand in Pier Village, a boardwalk with sophisticated shops, cocktail lounges and no rides or rowdy crowds. The second surprise: Long Branch is actually closer to Manhattan than The Hamptons, just 50 miles from midtown.

That means you can be enjoying one of the two dozen sleek and spacious rooms at the  Bungalow Hotel  just an hour after you leave NYC. This boutique getaway feels a bit like it was transported from SoHo, with all white rooms decorated with bright pops of color and original art. Bungalounge is a guest lounge that doubles as a rotating art gallery and is where you can kick back with a cocktail while you play a game of billiards or foosball. An outdoor area with a gas fireplace and oversized seating is the perfect spot to watch the stars. When the sun comes up, you’re just a block from the sand and sea.

Bungalow Hotel

Wildlife sanctuary setting in cape cod, ma.

It’s about a 4-hour drive to this vacation rental cottage in Cape Cod where you’ll enjoy a complete change of scenery as well as privacy and seclusion at  The Islander, Steps From Water, Firepit, AC  vacation rental. The three bedroom home features an airy open floor plan with high vaulted ceilings, a full kitchen and living room, plus a large front porch with a fire pit and views of the water on either side.

Not only is the home just a few yards away from a private beach, but it’s nestled in the Wild Life Sanctuary of Monomoscoy Island, so you’ll be close to nature, but not other vacationers. The island is just 1.5 miles long, making it easy to explore on a walk or a bike ride. For a change of scenery, Mashpee Commons and Popponessett Market Place are just a few miles away for ice cream, lobster rolls, and souvenirs.

The Islander Private Beach, Steps From Water

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The best summer getaways from NYC

When you need to escape the city, these summer getaways from NYC have everything you need for relaxation or adventure

Right now, we're all thinking about summer getaways from NYC. It's been a long spring and finally, the weather is perfect for taking road trips and day trips out of this busy city.

While there are plenty of things to do to stay cool—from checking out the hottest new rooftop restaurants and bars  to kayaking our local waterways and hitting up the best nearby beaches —there comes a point when you just need to get away. Fortunately, there are plenty of summer getaways from NYC that offer a refreshing change of scenery and a whole slew of new activities.

All within six hours of the city, these getaway destinations are chock full of relaxing and surprising things to do. Visiting a farm, walking through treetops, dining in a quaint seaside hamlet and getting a full spa treatment are all within reach. Some of them are even perfect destinations for taking an affordable romantic getaway .

Want to know where you can go for a summer weekend from NYC? Try Kingston, Saranac Lake, Newport, Catskill and more.

Explore these towns and you might discover a new hobby or the next best regional food trend. Whatever you choose, you’ll return to the city recharged and ready to get back into the daily grind. If you can’t get away for more than a day, check out these day trips from New York for a quick trip. Just get out there and try something new for the best summer ever.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to weekend getaways from NYC

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Top summer getaways from NYC

1.  Kingston, NY

2hrs from NYC

New York State’s former capital has only gotten better with age. Establishing chef-inspired restaurants, music-driven bars and arty boutiques, a steady stream of creative entrepreneurs has made Kingston au courant once more, restoring the prime location as a perfect home base for exploring the Hudson Valley.

Proving that Kingston has the chops to be an elegant escape, four historic buildings have joined together to form the Hotel Kinsley , the town’s first destination accommodations. The smart, cozy rooms are graced with a distinct Scandinavian flair, and check-in takes place in a former bank vault—cha-ching!

A handful of trendy stores and unique hangouts like  Rough Draft , a bookstore and taproom, have opened recently as well as a number of restaurants slinging delicious food like  Ship to Shore  and  Lola .  The Ulster Performing Arts Center , inside a restored 1926 theater, regularly has events and the city is also home to a number of festivals, including the Kingston Jazz Festival and the Artists Soapbox Derby.   The Trolley Museum of New York   even offers 1.5-mile ride on weekends and holidays along the Rondout Creek waterfront to Kingston Point Park.

2.  High Falls, NY

They may all be born with sweet-baby-angel faces, but seeing pizza rats and trapped pigeons on the subway is a lot to handle. Hightail it to High Falls’ Woodstock Farm Sanctuary , where cuddly creatures roam the nonprofit’s 150 acres. Whether you’re volunteering (go you!) or just basking in the pastoral experience, you’ll meet some of the rescued farm animals, including Dolly the llama, Puddles the duck, Maybelle the cow, Tammy the lamb, Luna the goat and Luna’s brother Louie (he’s shy, but he’ll snuggle if you’re patient).

Stay: Speaking of getting snuggly, the sanctuary just debuted  The Gray Barn , a modern five-bedroom guesthouse that overlooks a goat pasture. Wave to Luna and Louie while you’re munching away at your complimentary vegan breakfast.

Drink: For an altogether different farm foray, stop by Tuthilltown Spirits Distillery , New York State’s first post-Prohibition whiskey distillery.

3.  Saranac Lake, NY

5hrs 48min from NYC

You’re already familiar with the High Line, but have you been to the majestic elevated park of the Adirondacks? We’ve been , and it’s called Wild Walk —an 81-acre museum complex, which literally lets you see the forest of upstate New York through the trees. Designed by Charles P. Reay, the innovative walkway takes you up and over the forest canopy for a truly breathtaking view, and a revelatory look at the dense and expansive landscape. Wander through exhibits like a giant spider web that is 24 feet above ground as well as the highest point, the Raptor’s Nest, where you have a clear view of the gorgeous vista and landmarks like the Whiteface Mountain and Seward Range. When you tire of walking on the wild side, retire for the evening at the gorgeous Hotel Saranac , a historical building that has transformed into a modern haven. The hotel is positioned to offer the best of the natural world with nearby hiking trails and lake activites as well as bumpin’ nightlife for urban dwellers. The area’s downtown scene is equipped with art galleries, street musicians and performance spaces like Pendragon Theater or Blueseed Studios for your entertainment. The dining options are also ace, but we recommend stumbling into the French-themed Left Bank Cafe for its tender poulet basquaise, generous charcuterie plate and impressive wine list.

4.  Catskill, NY

2hrs 30mins from NYC

The ruggedly beautiful Catskill Mountains have a multicentury history of creative inspiration and adventure. Washington Irving set “Rip Van Winkle” among their peaks, and Thomas Cole’s paintings of the area wound up radically changing how artists depict landscapes. For a peek of what these folks found so inspiring, take the Hudson River School of Art Trail, which starts at Thomas Cole National Historic Site , and bask in views like the 260-foot-drop of Kaaterskill Falls.

This respite isn’t strictly about historical appreciation, though. In the past few years, that old Catskill creativity has extended to mountain-modern hotel options like Scribner’s Catskill Lodge . A hotshot design firm from Brooklyn (where else?) revamped the ’60s motor lodge last year into a 38-room boutique hotel that we describe as mountain-man sleek, with curvy gray couches near sharp Adirondack chairs, all set off by colorful boho textiles.

The views are of course lovely, but if you’re jonesing for more adrenaline, these days Catskill makes a better base camp than ever for mountain adventures. Zoom at 600 feet in the air with New York Zipline Adventures .

5.  Newport, RI

3hrs 20min from NYC

If you want to treat yourself to a swanky summer getaway, Newport, Rhode Island is bursting with finesse resorts, fancy waterfront restaurants and swanky mansions you can visit and pretend you’re a Vanderbilt.  Once you’re pampered and immersed in the exterior beauty of Rhode Island, head indoors to enjoy the lavish properties known as Newport Mansions . Guided tours are available for Chateau-sur-Mer, Chepstow, Hunter House, Isaac Bell House and Kingscote. Afterward, feast like a debauchee and go in on some lobster claws at The Mooring —an indoor and outdoor top-of-the-catch seafood restaurant.

6.  Shelter Island, NY

3hrs 15mins from NYC

It’s right there, between Long Island’s North and South Forks, and yet Shelter Island is easy to miss: Yes, the 12.5-square-mile isle is small—in fact, the Mashomack Preserve occupies a third of its area—and it’s only accessible by ferry. But don’t expect an empty expanse: While it’s totes low-key, it’s also replete with historic 19th-century neighborhoods, troves of beaches and plenty of local characters to help you soak in the surroundings. You can even explore an intact 18th-century home at the Shelter Island Historical Society.

Right on the water, The Pridwin Hotel is a nostalgic getaway that’ll remind you of summer away at camp but much chicer. After a two-year renovation, it’s refitted to fashionable guests who want a comfortable stay with impeccable service. Plus, it’s within a short walk of a private beach and has access to bike and boat rentals.

Breakfast, lunch, picnic, whatever: It’s all up for grabs at Marie Eiffel Market , a dockside establishment where natives and visitors gather for great bites, such as lobster rolls and pillowy pain au chocolat.

7.  Burlington, VT

• Transport & Travel

5hrs, 45min from NYC

The lakeside city of Burlington is that classic New England destination you might expect. From the shining waters of Lake Champlain to City Hall Park, the city is quite beautiful. Mixed among the walkable streets with quaint homes are cafes and bars you’ll want to linger at, a mix of indy and luxury shops, and a flourishing craft beer scene. When you go, expect to have a laid-back, choose-your-own-adventure getaway with an abundance of opportunities for fun and exploration.

Stay at the chic yet cozy Hotel Vermont  ($208-$599 per night) and dine at  The Farmhouse Tap & Grill  for dinner and  August First  for breakfast or brunch. Make sure to get your shopping in along the Church Street Marketplace, which has over 100 shops and restaurants. Just right outside of the shopping district, you’ll want to get to one of the city’s many breweries including Zero Gravity and the small business collective, Soda Plant , which is a good stopping point between biking and beer drinking. And don’t miss  Radio Bean , a laidback music venue perfect for those who want a relaxed night out and a chance to discover new bands and artists.

8.  Asbury Park, NJ

1hr 15mins from NYC

Asbury Park got famous as the place Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band broke onto the scene. But as of this summer, its legendary rock club, the Stone Pony , will get some healthy competition. Asbury Lanes , the retro-fab bowling alley and snack-and-cocktail bar that closed in 2015, just reopened as a 600-person-capacity concert venue. The Lanes’ lineup is already a powerhouse, with Tennis, Kurt Vile and Lupe Fiasco hitting the stage this summer (and, on June 18, none other than the Boss himself). Plus, the actual bowling lanes remain, with a fancy new pin-setting  system.

Set in a once-deserted Salvation Army building, the trendy Asbury Hotel  now has it all: a rooftop bar, outdoor movies, food trucks, live music, summery black-and-white photos from the city’s past and even eight-person bunks, in case you’re traveling with a crew.

Just a few blocks from the boardwalk, Kim Marie’s Eat n Drink Away  is a wood-covered, homey hang that boasts a bangin’ hangover burger, with shore fries (thick-cut, with skins), bacon, oozing cheese and a fried egg.

9.  Ghent, NY

2hrs 30min from NYC

There are a ton of affordable  Airbnb rentals perfect for staying the weekend, including cute little cottages, tiny homes and cabins with waterviews. After walking through nature trails such as High Falls Conservation Area (an easy trek featuring a 150-foot waterfall) or climbing Mount Everett (good for advanced hikers), drive up to local vino proprietor Hudson-Chatham Winery . Their tasting room is open from noon to 5pm Wednesday through Sunday. Before you head back to glamp, drive to Taconic Sculpture Park to peep at three acres-worth of mythical-themed sculptures.

10.  Lake Placid, NY

5 hrs, 10mins from NYC

Set in the Tri-Lakes region, Lake Placid was founded in the early 19th century as an iron ore mining town. By 1932, it hosted the Winter Olympics and did it again in 1980. It has a beautiful downtown with a proud history seen in its massive Olympic Center; bustling businesses from souvenir shops to bakeries and breweries; and opportunities to have your own lake adventures.

The new boutique  Eastwind Lake Placid  is a lovely stay because it has three types of rooms, from tiny cabins to large in-house suites, and a lobby that doubles as a bar, living room and stage for local artists who perform live weekly.

While there, rent a boat, kayak or hike, or check out its Olympic history at the Olympic Center ‘s museum and visit the famous Herb Brooks Arena where the “Miracle On Ice” game was played.

For a nice dinner out, head to nearby Whiteface Lodge. The rustic, timber building is a marvel, including the dining room at Kanu decorated with hand-hewn log beams and granite stone fireplaces. The creamy lardon onion soup and the warm brie were divine appetizers and the drinks from its cocktail bar, Peak 47 , were delicious and inventive. Ask for the bartender’s secret menu. It’s a rotating, curated list of creative cocktails.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

12 Fantastic Day Trips From New York City

Joe Trentacosti / Shutterstock

• Destinations
• New York City
• The Catskills
• United States

New York City is full of energy, and there are tons of things to do in Manhattan as well as the other four boroughs . Trying to see and do everything can wear you out. What happens when you want a change of pace? Here’s a list of where native New Yorkers go. We selected 12 fantastic day trips from New York City. Most are about an hour away, but a few take longer. Many are accessible by public transportation. Cars, buses, and trains will whisk you away to the beaches of Long Island, antique shops and historical sites in the Hudson Valley, and the shores of New Jersey.

1. Visit Fire Island

Fire Island is home to some of the most beautiful and tranquil beaches in New York. The island is 31 miles long and has 17 different communities. Cherry Grove and the Pines are known for the LGBTQ+ community with drag shows, bars, and parties. Ocean Grove has a younger set while Saltaire is family-oriented. The beach communities are accessed via ferries and there are no cars allowed.

There are only three areas accessible by car on Fire Island: the William Floyd Estate, the Wilderness Visitor Center, and the Fire Island Lighthouse. For a bit of history, Floyd was a signer of the Declaration of Independence and was born in the manor. The rest of Fire Island and most of the beach communities are accessible via ferries.

How To Get There: Long Island Railroad (LIRR) and a ferry will get you there in about 2.5 hours.

Mircea Costina / Shutterstock

2. People Watch In The Hamptons

When New Yorkers refer to The Hamptons, we are actually referring to a group of towns and villages on the eastern end of Long Island, including Southampton, East Hampton, Sag Harbor, Watermill, and Bridgehampton. It is a summer playground for the elite with sand dunes, high-end restaurants, boutiques, museums, theaters, and antique shops. If you want to avoid the crowds, before Memorial Day and right after Labor Day are great times for visiting. In the summer, it can take three hours by car in traffic.

How To Get There: Take the Hampton Jitney (bus), LIRR, or a car to the Hamptons.

3. Swim In The Atlantic At Jones Beach State Park

For a closer beach and more New York City feel, try Jones Beach State Park. My family spent many summer days at Jones Beach when I was a child growing up in Brooklyn. The beach is more than six miles long. Walk along the Boardwalk, play shuffleboard, try your hand at miniature golf, or go swim in the pools. In the evenings, there are concerts, fireworks, and other activities.

How To Get There: Take the LIRR and a bus or drive yourself.

Photo Spirit / Shutterstock

4. Stroll Along The Hudson In Carmel

Carmel is a lovely town about an hour north of New York City. Take a hike in Fahnestock State Park or Mt. Ninham State Forest. See the Buddha statue at the Chuang Yen Monastery. Or take a walk across the Hudson River on the pedestrian bridge. You can’t go wrong in Carmel strolling the street or eating in one of the cafes or restaurants. If you are looking for a relaxing weekend trip, Carmel can be a good base to take in the Hudson Valley.

How To Get There: Take Metro-North or drive to Carmel.

5. Walk Among the Sculpture At Storm King Art Center

Windsor, new york.

Storm King is an outdoor sculpture museum (and one of our must-stops for a New York to Boston road trip ). You’ll find 100+ sculptures on 500 acres of rolling hills and meadows. Among the pieces are works by Alexander Calder, Isamu Noguchi, Richard Serra, Maya Lin, and Roy Lichtenstein. There is a wheelchair-accessible tram and some of the paths are paved. There are also bikes for rent to tour the grounds. Insect repellent and good walking shoes are useful at Storm King.

How To Get There: Take Metro-North to the Beacon Station and then a shuttle bus or taxi. There are also busses from NYC to Storm King.

littlenySTOCK / Shutterstock

6. Kayak The Hudson To Bannerman Castle

Beacon, new york.

Bannerman Castle sits on Pollepel Island (most people call it Bannerman Island) in the middle of the Hudson River. It was built by Francis Bannerman to hold his gunpowder and military equipment. The ruins are beautiful and evocative. Take a tour by boat or kayak to see the ruins and learn the history. In addition, there are movie nights and theatrical events on the island.

How To Get There: Take the Metro-North to the Cold Spring stop.

7. Shop Till You Drop At Woodbury Commons

Central valley, new york.

Looking to shop in NYC and not break the bank? Woodbury Commons is the place to go. All of the top stores, from Nike to Coach to Bose, Dolce and Gabbana to Jimmy Choo, have outlets at Woodbury Commons. With more than 200 stores, you name it, and it’s there. You can easily spend the entire day and not finish your list.

How To Get There: Busses leave regularly from Port Authority to Woodbury Commons. By car, it takes less than an hour to get there.

Meagan Marchant / Shutterstock

8. Experience The Borscht Belt In The Catskills

Watched Dirty Dancing ? A Catskills resort was the setting for the 1987 Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey movie where families came to get away from New York’s summer heat. Today the Catskills boasts a number of yoga retreats, rustic farmers’ restaurants, theaters featuring live music, as well as music and film festivals. You can even tour some of the older hotels to catch the vibe of the Borscht Belt as it was known from the ’20s to the ’60s.

New Paltz in Eastern Catskills is a cute town known for its breweries, wineries, distilleries, and cider houses. More into nature than alcohol? Check out the various scenic hikes, spectacular views, and rock climbing.

If you’re interested in Woodstock memorabilia, visit Bethel Woods Center for the Arts in Southern Catskills where the 1969 Woodstock Music Festival took place. The center today still hosts concerts and buses from Port Authority runs on concert days.

How To Get There: Take Metro-North to Poughkeepsie and a taxi across the Hudson, or a Trailways bus from Port Authority.

9. Visit the Ghosts At Sleepy Hollow

Known as the setting for Washington Irving’s The Legend of Sleepy Hollow , the town is a great place to visit around Halloween . Irving is buried in the cemetery. On a trip, you will not find the Headless Horseman bridge over the Pocantico River as depicted in his tale. You will find the beautiful Rockefeller State Park and a wide expanse of carriage networks that crosses woods and streams. Worth checking out is the ornately beautiful Rockefeller mansion Kykuit, which has wonderful gardens atop a hill.

How To Get There: Take Metro-North to Tarrytown for a short train ride or a short drive from the city.

Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock

10. Hike In Bear Mountain State Park

If you are looking for a place to hike, swim, boat, fish, or just be in nature, Bear Mountain State Park is the place to go. In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing and ice skating. It’s also a great place to view the changing leaves in the fall.

Combine a trip to Bear Mountain with shopping at Woodbury Commons and Storm King Art Center, and you have a nice weekend getaway.

How To Get There: Take Metro-North to Peekskill and then transfer to a taxi. The Mountain is best reached by car, which is about 50 miles north of the city.

11. Experience History And The Arts In Princeton

Founded in 1746, Princeton University is the fourth oldest university in the US. Many leading intellectuals have walked the grounds, including Albert Einstein. The Princeton University Art Museum is one of the best art museums in the state. The McCarter Theater presents cutting-edge theatrical works. Main Street features Tudor architecture housing small quaint shops, cafes, and businesses.

How To Get There: You can reach Princeton Junction on the NJ Transit or Amtrak.

Sky Cinema / Shutterstock

12. Enjoy The Music Of Asbury Park

The coastal town of Asbury Park has for many years been the final destination for those heading to the Jersey Shore. Buy a day pass and enjoy the mile-long beach popular with families and hipsters. With many restaurants and shops situated on its famed historic boardwalk along the oceanfront, Asbury Park is popular with New Yorkers looking to get away to the beach. There is often live music and street art. You can even play a round of mini-golf on the boardwalk. Check out the Asbury lanes for bowling and other evening entertainment.

How To Get There: Take NJ Transit to Asbury Park. If you decide to make a weekend out to the beach, The Asbury Hotel is well located right in the center of things and features a fabulous rooftop bar.

So here you have it: 12 fantastic day trips from New York City. Whether you are looking for shopping or hiking or the beach, you can find it within an hour of New York City. Most of these destinations are reachable via public transportation. Enjoy exploring the world beyond the city.

Sue Davies and Regina Ang live in both the New York area and Singapore. Sue -- a native New Yorker -- and Regina -- a native Singaporean -- share their experiences at Travel for Life Now . Between them they've traveled to all seven continents (including Sue's dream trip to Antarctica) and more than 50 countries. They love Street Art, LGBTQ+ travel, Asia (especially Singapore), local food, and the search for local travel experiences around the world.

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

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

You'll also love this:

• FREE TOOL: Which Day Trip from New York is the Best?
• The 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York
• The 9 Road Trips from New York

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

Table of Contents

27 Amazing Day Trips from New York

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

Day Trip from NYC to Boston

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

Distance: 220 Miles (4 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Boston

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

Helpful links

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

Day Trip from New York to Washington D.C.

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

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Washington D.C.

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

Day Trip from NYC to Philadelphia

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

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

Distance: 100 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

Places To See in Philadelphia

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

Want to see both?

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

Check Availability

Weekend getaway to Philadelphia & Amish Country

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

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

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

Day Trips from NYC to Niagara Falls

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Albany

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park

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

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

Distance: 50 Miles (1 hour by car)

Day Trip from NYC to the Hamptons

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Rockaway Beach

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

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

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

Things To Do at Rockaway Beach

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

Places To See at Rockaway Beach

• Jacob Riis Park
• Rockaway Community Park
• Bayswater Park

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the Finger Lakes

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

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

Distance: 260 Miles (5 hours by car)

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

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

Places To See on your Day Trip from New York

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

Day Trip from NYC to Baltimore

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

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See

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

Day Trip from NYC to Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping Day Trip to the American Dream Mall

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Mohonk Preserve

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

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

Distance: 90 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to New Haven

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

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

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Hamilton Township

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Hamilton Township

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Shaky Bridge
• Tulpehaking Nature Center

Day Trip from NYC to The Palisades

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Phoenicia

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Phoenicia

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

Shopping Day Trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Poughkeepsie

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

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

Distance: 85 Miles (2 hours by car)

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Sleepy Hollow

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

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

Distance: 35 Miles (1 hour by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Sleepy Hollow

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

Day Trip from NYC to Ithaca

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

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

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Ithaca

• Cornell University Campus
• Taughannock Falls
• West End District

Weekend Getaway from NYC to Martha's Vineyard

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

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

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

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

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

Shopping Day Trip to the Garden State Plaza Mall

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

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the White Mountain National Forrest

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

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

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

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

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

Day Trip from NYC to Atlantic City

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

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

Distance: 125 Miles (2 hours by car) 

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

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

Places To See in Atlantic City

• Lucy the Margate Elephant
• War memorials
• Absecon Lighthouse

Day Trip from NYC to Ocean City

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

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

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

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

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

Places To See in Ocean City

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

Our Favorite City Breaks

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

Day Trip to Washington D.C.

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

Day Trip to Boston

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

Philadelphia Day Trip from New York

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

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

Atlantic City

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Poughkeepsie

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

For Nature Lovers

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

01 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: White Mountains

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

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

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

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

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

04 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Niagara Falls

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

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

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

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

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

07 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Cold Spring

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

08 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Mohonk Preserve

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

Shopping Trips

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

01 Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip

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

02 American Dream

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

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

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

04 Jersey Gardens Outlet Center

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

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

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

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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Best Unique & Fun Ideas for Day Trips from NYC

Written by Becca

Updated on April 26th, 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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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

Getty Images

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.

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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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Watch CBS News

2 New York City beaches make Travel + Leisure's "25 Best in the USA." See the complete list.

By Dave Carlin

Updated on: April 29, 2024 / 6:47 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK -- Travel + Leisure magazine's annual list of the 25 best beaches in the U.S. includes a pair of popular ones right here in New York City.

The two beaches are sharing the prestigious space with other sun, sand and surf spots in places like Hawaii, California and Florida.

George Schlereth of Forest Hills said his love for Rockaway Beach predates the hit 1978 song by the Ramones with lyrics that went, "Rock, rock, Rockaway Beach."

"It's a great place to spend the afternoon. It's the best place you could go," Schlereth said.

So what else makes Rockaway Beach such a fan favorite?  

Travel + Leisure praised Rockaway Beach's "Five-mile boardwalk, and surf-worthy waves."

"It's definitely very diverse. People come from all over come here," said Kristen Supple of Far Rockaway.

"Rockaway Beach, because I love like the waves and boogie boarding and they have great ice cream and food," said 10-year-old Jordan Cannetti.

"I used to come here as a kid with my parents and family and it's just night and day. The boardwalk, it's just amazing. Now, the restaurant," his father said. "The parks along the boardwalk are just amazing. Ninja Park is great The pickle ball, the basketball."

"They spent so much money fixing up the Rockaways. They brought in more people, more families down there. The place is packed now," Schlereth added.

And let's not forget the amazing Coney Island   

Coney Island bubbled up to the Top 25 as well, with the editors of Travel + Leisure writing, "Coney Island is a perfect seaside wonderland of nostalgia and kitschy fun."

Kenya Dethan, who is 7, called it her favorite beach.

"I like the nice water. I like going on the roller coasters," Dethan said.

The thing about Coney Island is there is so much to do -- sand and surf, the boardwalk with the amusements, and the food and drinks -- all of it rain or shine.

"Number one in the world, Coney Island," resident David Dingle said. "Best of both worlds. You're at the beach and the stores all together, all in one place. Once you're here, you don't want to go back home."

Also making the best beaches list is the New Jersey favorite for fun, Asbury Park. It's the hometown of music legend Bruce Springsteen and features clubs like The Stone Pony , which keep the town highly rated and rockin'.

• Asbury Park
• Coney Island
• Rockaway Beach

Dave Carlin serves as a reporter for CBS2 News and covers breaking news stories and major events in the Tri-State Area.

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12 Delightful Day Trips from NYC by Train

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » New York City » 12 Delightful Day Trips from NYC by Train

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Are you visiting New York City but might want to add some day trips to your NYC itinerary? Check out these amazing day trips from NYC that are totally worth the effort!

This list of day trips from nyc by train was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

Heading to New York City on a return visit or staying for a while and want to explore places beyond the city? 

Taking day trips from NYC by train is the best idea!

New York has a couple of great train stations which make leaving the city super easy. Renting a car to venture on day trips out of NYC is the quickest way to a stress headache but travel nowhere far in the city’s traffic.

Plus, there are lots of fun day trips from NYC you can take. No matter whether you want to hit the beach, enjoy a New England fall, see another East Coast city, or walk around a college town, there are tons of New York day trips to choose from.

Here are lots of NYC day trip ideas you can take by train and easily visit within three hours of the city! 

Don’t have time to read a bunch of New York City blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting NYC with kids.

Popular NYC Tours/Activities

• Summit One Vanderbilt (this is the coolest observation tower in NYC)
• NYC Tour (this one drives around to the highlights and goes to the Statue of Liberty)
• Museum of Ice Cream (perfect for kids who love treats and parents who love taking photos)
• American Museum of Natural History (there are tons of interesting exhibits for kids)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable NYC photography option)

Kid-Friendly NYC Hotels

• Mint House at 70 Pine (has full kitchens and laundry)
• SIXTY SoHo (super close to the Museum of Ice Cream and the Color Factory)
• EVEN Hotel New York Times Square South (great location near Times Square)

12 of the Best Day Trips from NYC by Train You Should Take

Day trip to hamptons from nyc.

While spending a summer in a luxurious Hamptons villa might be an experience your bank balance can’t stretch to, a day trip to Hamptons from NYC is totally doable.

You’ll leave the city fog and feel refreshed relaxing on the beaches and walking through the tree-lined streets of upmarket Hampton neighborhoods. There are lots of independent coffee shops and casual beachside bars for cheaper eats.

If you have a little more cash to splash, you can rent a boat for an hour or the day too.

How To Get From NYC to the Hamptons by Train

There are multiple places in the Hamptons with train stations including Montauk, East Hampton, Southampton, Westhampton, and Hampton Bays. But one of the closest and best for day trips from NYC is Westhampton.

From New York’s Penn Station , you can take any Long Island Rail Road service to Jamaica Station in Queens which depart every eight minutes. Some examples are the Babylon Branch and Hempstead Branch Services. 

Then, take another Long Island Rail Road Service heading to Montauk but hop off the train after a one hour and 40-minute journey at Westhampton Station . These trains leave around every two hours but there is one direct train from Penn Station to Westhampton Station every day.

Altogether, the journey should take no longer than two hours and 20 minutes and tend to cost no more than $30.50 for a single journey, often much less.

NYC to Hudson Valley Day Trip (for Fall)

Want to enjoy fall day trips from NYC by train to witness the natural gold, crimson, and burnt orange country parks for yourself?

You absolutely can! Just head up the Hudson Valley.

The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Croton-on-Hudson is an annual fall event where thousands of carved pumpkins are lit up. It’s a great day trip option with kids. 

How To Get From NYC to the Hudson Valley by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Hudson Line/Metro-North Railroad train to Croton-Harmon Station . It’s a 20-minute walk or short car ride to The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze.

This journey takes around 70-80 minutes and departs very frequently. Train tickets for single journeys start from around $13.

Day Trip to Long Branch, NJ from NYC (for the Beach)

Most people with some spare time in their NYC itinerary for a beach day head to Coney Island.

But it can get a little crowded on the weekends!

One of the best beach day trips from NYC by train is to Long Branch in New Jersey. This boardwalk beach with soft, yellow sand is almost two miles long (living up to its name!) with lots of restaurants and amenities within easy reach.

How To Get From NYC to Long Branch by Train

From Penn Station , take a direct NJCL service to Long Branch Station . These services depart approximately every 50 minutes, take just over 90 minutes and cost around $10 – $16.

Get Our FREE NYC Travel Planner

Nyc to philadelphia day trip.

Injecting some educational (yet fun!) time into your NYC trip might be a little tricky, but not if you take a day trip to Philadelphia.

It’s one of the best places to visit outside of New York with your school-age kids. And they have a TON of cool Boston tours for families .

See the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and the Eastern State Penitentiary Museum. Oh, and try a cheesesteak for lunch washed down with an ice cream soda, of course!

How To Get From NYC to Philadelphia by Train

Whereas a historical day trip to Boston from NYC by train would be an eight-hour round trip, Amtrak day trips from NYC to Philadelphia are less than three.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , take a direct Amtrak service to William H. Gray III 30th Street station in Philadelphia. This journey takes no more than 90 minutes, departs roughly every 30 minutes, and costs as little as $10.

Day Trip to Washington DC from NYC

One of the other great options for day trips from NYC by train if you want to visit another big city is Washington DC .

Book your timed tickets for the Washington Monument in advance. Find a bike or scooter rental so you can whiz around the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and all the other cool sights on the National Mall in one day.

Take advantage of the free Smithsonian museums too! You can pack so much into a one-day DC trip if you’re savvy.

How To Get From NYC to Washington DC by Train

Although a one-day trip from NYC to DC isn’t much time, it’s a great way to get a taster of another East Coast city and you couldn’t choose anywhere better than the capital.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , take a direct Acela Amtrak service to Washington Union Station . These trains depart every hour and take less than three hours. Ticket prices are usually $20 or less for cabin seats.

NYC to Greenwich, CT Day Trip

If you’re looking for Connecticut day trips from NYC, you’d be hard-pressed to find one better than Greenwich.

This delightful coastal town is super close to New York by train and has a beautiful harbor with lots of nice parks like Greenwich Point Park.

It also has great restaurants and makes for a relaxing day out for couples or families with babies or younger kids.

How To Get From NYC to Greenwich by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Metro-North Railroad service to Greenwich station. This is one of the best and quickest day trips near NYC as the journey takes less than one hour.

The service departs every 30 minutes and tickets cost between $10 – $22.

Day Trip to Princeton, NJ from NYC

Some of the best day trips from NYC by train are to historic college towns. 

Many of the great things to do in the city of Princeton are on campus. Visit the Gothic University Chapel and the Princeton University Art Museum.

The Princeton Battlefield is a Revolutionary War site too, so there are tons to do here for history buffs.

How To Get From NYC to Princeton by Train

From Penn Station , hop on a direct NJ Transit train to Princeton Junction . These services depart every 30 minutes and only take anywhere from 45 to 80 minutes, so they are short trips from NYC. Ticket prices are, on average, $31 for this journey.

NYC to Poughkeepsie, NY Day Trip

Also one of the best fall New York City day trips, Poughkeepsie is a beautiful city to visit to escape the skyscrapers of the big city.

Take the Walkway Over the Hudson over the Hudson River from Poughkeepsie or kayak along it. There are tons of great restaurants overlooking the river where you’ll either see a lush green landscape in summer or a multicolored marvel in fall.

How To Get From NYC to Poughkeepsie by Train

While a day trip to Niagara Falls from NYC by train is almost impossible, Poughkeepsie is one of the next best day trips from NYC if you want to visit upstate New York.

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , get a direct Amtrak train to Poughkeepsie station. These services depart every hour and the journey takes around 90 minutes.

Or, from Grand Central Terminal , get a Hudson Line train to Poughkeepsie station which also departs frequently but takes two hours. Tickets cost around $30 – $40.

Day Trip to New Haven, CT Day Trip

Another of the best NYC day trips by train is to New Haven, Connecticut which is the home of Yale University.

Visit the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History with kids or the New Haven Museum to learn more about the city’s local history.

Like any shore city, it has a beautiful harbor and lots of city parks like the West River Memorial Park.

How To Get From NYC to New Haven by Train

From Grand Central Terminal , get a direct Metro-North Railroad service to New Haven . This service departs every 30 minutes and takes roughly two hours. Tickets can cost as little as €17.

NYC to Baltimore, MD Day Trip

With seafood restaurants selling fresh local crab and historic harbor neighborhoods, Baltimore in Maryland is one of the best day trips from New York.

Fort McHenry is the birthplace of the US national anthem and the National Aquarium is in Baltimore too.

How To Get From NYC to Baltimore by Train

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , get a direct Acela Amtrak train to Baltimore Penn Station . This service departs every 30 minutes and lasts anywhere from two hours and 20 minutes to two hours and 45 minutes.

Tickets for this journey can cost as little as $15.

Day Trip to Wilmington, DE from NYC

One of the best NYC day trips is visiting Wilmington, Delaware. It’s perfect if you want to tick off a new state and check out somewhere a little underrated.

Wilmington was home to the powerful DuPont family. You can visit their former Georgian house and the Hagley Museum which has exhibits dedicated to their legacy. 

Neighborhoods around Brandywine Creek are beautiful, including the creek’s namesake park and zoo.

How To Get From NYC to Wilmington by Train

From Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station , hop on a direct Acela Amtrak train to Wilmington station. This service leaves every 30 minutes and only takes around 90 minutes. Tickets cost as little as $10 for this journey.

NYC to Harriman State Park Day Trip

If you’re looking for good day trips from NYC for outdoor activities, the Harriman State Park is super close to the city in upstate New York.

There are tons of hiking trails like the Reeves Brook Trail and lakes like Lake Sebago where you can sail or kayak. 

Harriman State Park even has vineyards, waterfalls, and you can visit part of the Appalachian Trail too!

How To Get From NYC to Harriman State Park by Train

From Penn Station , take an NJ Transit service to Secaucus Junction which takes around ten minutes. Then, hop on a connecting train to Sloatsburg station at the southern entrance to the state park which lasts around one hour.

Only a handful of these services leave every day, so check timetables in advance to avoid disappointment. Tickets usually cost no more than $13.

Day Trips from NYC by Train Wrap Up

While NYC skiing day trips and short trips to faraway cities like Boston might be impossible by train, there are a dozen more day trips from NYC by train that are.

All of these one-day trips from New York City are fun, nearby, and easy to reach by rail.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or not, you’re sure to find day trips from New York are the best way to shake up your big city vacation so that it’s an even bigger adventure.

Looking for more NYC travel resources? Check out my 4-day NYC itinerary , best NYC hotels for families , how to save money in New York City , New York City travel tips , NYC tours for families , and kid-friendly 7-day NYC itinerary !

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Our exclusive eBook, Top 10 Unforgettable Family Adventure Destinations , is your ticket to a world of wonder and excitement. Get your free copy today!

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What to Know Before Booking a National Park Trip This Summer

Additional routes in popular parks now require reservations, the annual pass gets a big change, Juneteenth is now a new free entrance day and more changes for 2024.

By Lauren Matison

In 2023, the seashores, lakeshores, battlefields, historic sites, monuments and more that make up the National Park Service had 325.5 million visits , an increase of 4 percent from the year before.

The National Park Service director, Charles F. Sams III, praised the surge of interest in “learning our shared American story throughout the hidden gems of the National Parks System.”

Expecting an even greater turnout in 2024, the Park Service and Recreation.gov , the booking platform for federal land reservations, have implemented new measures to streamline the park experience, manage overcrowding and safeguard the environment.

More parks are requiring reservations

To better avoid congested trails, packed parking lots and overflowing trash cans, additional parks are joining Rocky Mountain , Arches and Glacier National Parks this year in requiring day-use permits, timed entries and other reservations for travelers who wish to visit, particularly during peak hours, holidays and the parks’ high seasons. Yosemite National Park is reinstating a timed-entry system it instituted in 2020, but paused in 2022.

Many park enthusiasts expressed mixed feelings about the reservation policies, with some lamenting a lack of first-come, first-served campsites while others find comfort in knowing they have a confirmed booking. As nearly 75 percent of visitors each year descend on national parks from May to October (and often on weekends), park officials stand by the system.

“In some parks, the level of demand is exceeding the capacity for which infrastructure was designed or is outpacing the National Park Service’s ability to sustainably support visitation,” said Kathy Kupper, a public affairs specialist for the service. “This trend is resulting in the need to explore new strategies to protect natural and cultural resources and provide opportunities for safe and meaningful visitor experiences.”

It can be confusing.

New to implementing timed-entry reservations for vehicles is Mount Rainier National Park , in Washington, for its popular Paradise and Sunrise Corridors during certain times in the summer season. Reservations cost $2, are valid for one day and must be purchased along with the park ticket, but do not apply for visitors with wilderness permits or camping or lodge reservations. Similar vehicle reservations are now required for certain periods for viewing the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park in Maui, Hawaii , and driving the Cadillac Summit Road in Maine’s Acadia National Park .

Visitors wishing to hike Old Rag Mountain in Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park must obtain a day-use ticket between March 1 and Nov. 30, and in Zion National Park, in Utah, hikers wishing to visit Angels Landing , the dramatic 1,488-foot-tall rock formation, also need to purchase a permit. Fees range from $1 to $6, in addition to the parks’ entrance fees.

As each destination is managed differently, check the park’s webpage for the type of reservation required. Although most bookings can be made through Recreation.gov, some sites, such as Muir Woods National Monument, use a different system.

New features on Recreation.gov

In 2023, Recreation.gov reported that more than 4 million camping reservations and 2 million timed-entry reservations were booked online, and 1.5 million permits were issued. Some 2.9 million new users signed up for the site. With its expanding user base, the booking platform has added 58 reservable national park locations — including 17 campgrounds — such as Central Avenue Walk-in Sites at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Bluff Hike In Camping in South Carolina’s Congaree National Park.

Recreation.gov has also improved an alerts feature, piloted in July 2023, that can notify users through email or mobile push notifications when a sold-out campsite becomes available. After Recreation.gov notifies you of availability, you must book the campsite yourself online — and quickly, as you’ll be shown how many other people (possibly hundreds) have received the same alert.

While its customer support center and mobile app are still only available in English, Recreation.gov recently introduced a Spanish language translation option. The Park Service partners with Latino Conservation Week , which hosts nationwide hikes and events on environmental education and in-park stewardship, and will celebrate its 10th year in September.

A limit to the annual America the Beautiful pass

The 2024 America the Beautiful pass no longer allows two owners. The annual interagency pass, which costs $80 and covers the entrance fees for more than 2,000 federal recreation sites (of which roughly 100 do not charge for admission year-round), is now marked by a single signature line on the back of the card. The pass owner must show I.D. and be present with any accompanying travelers wishing to access the park with the pass. (Annual passes issued in 2023 will still be valid until their expiration date.) The pass covers all passengers in a vehicle — up to four adults, and children under 16 are admitted free — or up to four cyclists riding together. Active military or veterans and people with permanent disabilities are eligible for a free lifetime pass; 4th grade students may receive a free annual pass; and senior citizens may purchase a $20 annual pass or pay $80 for a lifetime pass.

At the parks, more accessible features, E.V. chargers and new lodging

To better protect against global warming, the Park Service is putting more than $65 million from the Inflation Reduction Act and Great American Outdoors Act into climate mitigation and ecosystem restoration.

Using $15.9 million budgeted for zero-emission vehicle deployment, charging capacity and infrastructure, the Park Service is prioritizing a reduction in carbon emissions, said Mr. Sams, by installing new electric-vehicle charging stations and running electric buses.

An interactive online locator tool created in 2023 shows E.V. charging stations throughout 27 national parks and the type of chargers available. In addition to the tool, every national park page displays alerts on road closures, parking lot capacities, construction work and other incidents.

Mr. Sams also said the Park Service is investing $1.3 billion from the Great American Outdoors Act to improve accessibility features, ranging from a new A.D.A.-compliant visitor center at Morristown National Historic Park in New Jersey to new beach wheelchairs at Sleeping Bear Dunes , Channel Islands and Virgin Islands National Parks . Each destination’s website has an accessibility tab to help visitors plan their trip, and Recreation.gov now has a search filter on its homepage to make it easier to locate accessible accommodations.

New lodging options now available across the country include the Flamingo Lodge , which opened inside Everglades National Park last fall with 24 guest rooms built from repurposed shipping containers. In March, along the southeastern border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Cataloochee Ranch reopened with 11 renovated cabins and a new restaurant. This spring, the Clubhouse Hotel & Suites will welcome its first guests in Rapid City, S.D., the closest major town to Badlands National Park , and opening in May in Idaho is the Yellowstone Peaks Hotel , a 30-minute-drive from Yellowstone National Park. This fall, California-bound travelers planning a visit to General Sherman, the largest known tree on Earth, might book at AutoCamp Sequoia , just outside Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park .

Also in California: Those who don’t score a highly coveted (and contentious) spot at the newly reopened High Sierra Camps in Yosemite could book Wildhaven Yosemite in Mariposa, which offers more affordable rates, hiking trails and views of the Sierra Nevadas. Reservations for its first season are available beginning May 1.

Celebrating milestones and a new free entrance day

On the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act, visitors can pay tribute to African American heritage at over 100 parks , including the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C., Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument , and the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail . This year also marks 100 years since Indigenous people were recognized as United States citizens. Although many parks have Indigenous programming , Mr. Sams, who is the first Native American to serve as N.P.S. director , suggested visiting Hopewell Cultural Historical Park in Ohio and Whitman Mission Historic National Historic Site in Washington, where he recently brought his daughter.

“In order to celebrate the diversity that makes our country great, we must share the complete story of America, which includes both the successes and challenges encountered on the way to form a more perfect union,” Mr. Sams said.

Juneteenth National Independence Day is the National Park Service’s newest free entrance day . Visitors can also take advantage of free admission on April 20, the first day of National Park Week; Aug. 4, the four-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act ; Sept. 28 on National Public Lands Day ; and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day .

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article misstated the location of the Flamingo Lodge. It is inside Everglades National Park, not outside the park.

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Bella Hadid Puts On Runway Show, Rocks Sheer Dress & More Looks During NYC Visit

Bella Hadid is turning the sidewalks of New York City into her very own runway during a trip to the city to promote her new Ôrebella fragrance line.

The 27-year-old model and mogul has stepped out in three different looks on Wednesday and Thursday (May 1 and 2). That includes a sheer white dress and more.

Keep reading to find out more…

On Wednesday, Bella opted for a monochromatic black look, which featured cropped pants, open-toes heels and a jacket with a high neck. The model capped off her look with sunglasses and was all smiles while walking down the street.

She changed into a white dress with a sheer bodice the following day. Bella paired the knee-length dress with strappy sandals and a large necklace. She pulled her hair back.

Bella put on a gray blazer and a matching skort, which she paired with platform shoes for another outing that day.

Her new line of “skin-nourishing fragrances” arrived recently. You can learn more about them here .

If you missed it, we recently got some huge relationship news about Bella. She also made a major move .

FYI: Bella ‘s last look is Gucci with Maison H. Jewels .

Scroll through all of the new photos from Bella Hadid’s fashionable trip to New York City in the gallery…

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Planning a beach weekend? Here are 7 beaches you can drive to from Ohio within a day

Sure, Ohio might not be on a short list of beach havens in the United States. But that doesn't mean you can't find somewhere to soak up the sun this summer!

We've compiled a list of beach spots within driving distance of Ohio's major cities, including Cincinnati, Columbus and Cleveland.

Some are closer than others, but either way, it's time to start planning your beach trip and hitting the road to find sandy shores.

7 beaches you can get to from Ohio within a day

Ohio has a fair share of beaches where you can soak up the sun, so we'll start our journey in the Buckeye State before looking beyond state borders.

Notes: All driving distances and times are courtesy of Google Maps and are approximations. Some times represented in HH:MM form. Driving distance and time vary based on route selected, driving speed, traffic conditions and other factors.

1. Edgewater Park, Ohio

• Edgewater Park Lower Lot Drive, Cleveland, Ohio

The westernmost park in Cleveland Metroparks' Lakefront Reservation, Edgewater Park stretches across 147 acres and features 9,000 feet of shoreline, beaches, a fishing pier, picnic areas and boat ramps.

• From Cincinnati: 247 miles, or roughly a three hour, 46-minute drive
• From Columbus: 141 miles, or 2:11
• From Cleveland: two miles, or six minutes

2. Huntington Beach, Ohio

• 4101 Fulton Parkway, Cleveland, Ohio

Located in Bay Village on the shores of Lake Erie, Huntington Reservation offers water sports, picnic areas and expansive lakefront views as part of Cleveland Metroparks.

• From Cincinnati: 250 miles, or four hours
• From Columbus: 143 miles, or 2:19
• From Cleveland: 15 miles, or 24 minutes

3. Fairport Harbor, Ohio

• 220 Third St., Fairport Harbor, Ohio

Situated along Lake Erie, Fairport Harbor is a village in Lake County, Ohio, boasting two historic lighthouses and a large public beach.

• From Cincinnati: 280 miles, or 4:10
• From Columbus: 173 miles, or 2:35
• From Cleveland: 31 miles, or 34 minutes

4. Presque Isle State Park, Pennsylvania

• 301 Peninsula Drive, Erie, Pennsylvania

This 3,200-acre sandy peninsula in Erie, Pennsylvania, arches into Lake Erie. As Pennsylvania’s only “seashore,” Presque Isle offers lots of coastline and recreational activities like swimming, boating, fishing, hiking and bicycling.

• From Cincinnati: 340 miles, or 5:10
• From Columbus: 235 miles, or 3:34
• From Cleveland: 98 miles, or 1:36

5. Atlantic City, New Jersey

• 2301 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, New Jersey

Atlantic City is a resort spot along south New Jersey's Atlantic coastline known for its casinos and iconic boardwalk. If you're looking for a classic ocean beach, vacationers can get here in less than a day of driving from any major Ohio city.

• From Cincinnati: 633 miles, or 10 hours
• From Columbus: 530 miles, or 8:24
• From Cleveland: 493 miles, or 7:38

6. Ocean City, Maryland

• 4001 Coastal Hwy, Ocean City, Maryland

Another ocean beach option, Ocean City, Maryland, is a resort town situated between the Atlantic Ocean and Isle of Wight Bay in southeast Maryland. This vacation destination offers theme-park attractions, outdoor recreational activities and lots of nightlife options.

• From Cincinnati: 640 miles, or 10:38
• From Columbus: 538 miles, 8:56
• From Cleveland: 504 miles, or eight hours

7. Outer Banks, North Carolina

• Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Buxton, North Carolina

This crowd-favorite vacation spot is made up of a collection of islands off the coast of North Carolina. Beach-goers can enjoy over 100 miles of wide-open shoreline, the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and lots of charming seaside villages.

• From Cincinnati: 720 miles, or 11:44
• From Columbus: 685 miles or 11:06
• From Cleveland: 673 miles or 10:47

Fox News' Bill Hemmer heads north — way north — for look at U.S. military preparedness

This image provided by FOX News Media shows an anchor Bill Hemmer shooting a scene from “Battle for the Arctic with Bill Hemmer.” Credit: AP

NEW YORK — Fox News anchor Bill Hemmer needed a chain saw to complete one of his latest assignments.

Hemmer traveled north for “Battle for the Arctic,” a documentary on the Fox Nation streaming service about the U.S. Navy's preparedness in the region, where he took a brief ride on a nuclear submarine. The sub surfaced on a giant ice floe northeast of Alaska where the Navy had a camp. It took more than an hour for a chain saw to cut through the ice and enable Hemmer to walk down the hatch for his visit.

“It's not quite impenetrable,” Hemmer said. “But it's close.”

Hemmer noted that eight nations have land within the Arctic Circle, seven of them members of NATO. The exception is Russia, and the U.S. military is watching closely — the purpose of his trip.

His special, currently streaming, doubles as a travelogue into an endless expanse of white.

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“Everything you see is something that you have never seen before in your life because so few people have been here,” he said. “It's a remarkable site.”

Mindful of loyal Fox fans, Hemmer skirts one issue — climate change. “Why Arctic ice is receding, how fast and what it means,” he said. “All of these things are points of debate.”

SBU protests continue  ... Farmingdale housing development ... Knicks advance .. FeedMe: Croissant Cookies

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LA To NYC: How Much This 17-Day Amtrak Train Trip Costs

From Los Angeles to New Orleans up to New York City, Amtrak's Southern Trail is the ultimate U.S. coast-to-coast adventure.

Read update

Los Angeles To New York City: How Much This 17-Day Train Journey Through The South Will Cost

• Explore the U.S. coast-to-coast on a 17-day train journey, soaking in iconic landmarks and unique experiences along the way.
• Experience the deep south's charm, the cultural richness of cities like New Orleans, and iconic cityscapes in Atlanta and Washington DC.
• With a cost starting at $4,949 per person, the Southern Trail package offers a comprehensive Amtrak service, hotels, guided tours, and more.

Train travel in the United States seems to be becoming more popular than ever. With some spectacular coast-to-coast train tours across the United States, travelers are able to discover the country in a whole new way, all in the comfort and luxury of Amtrak's train service.

One of these epic adventures begins on the West Coast in the unmissable sunny city of Los Angeles, California through the culturally rich deep south, up to the East Coast's must-visit, New York City . This life-changing train experience will showcase U.S. like never before, where something new and exciting awaits around every bend — and the journey doesn't stop on the railway.

UPDATE: 2024/05/01 00:52 EST BY ERYNN RUIZ

Ready for a journey through the South on Amtrak? This 17-day trip might take some budgeting, but you'll be prepared for the trip of a lifetime thanks to our updates, which include insights into experiences on the train, updated pricing information, and more info on traveling with Amtrak.

Amtrak's Great American - Southern Trail: Los Angeles To New York

A hollywood tour, a taste of new orleans, exploring the nation's capital & much more.

Traveling from Los Angeles to New York City will surely be an adventure of a lifetime, like no other. Amtrak's Great American - Southern Trail's itinerary has been thoughtfully composed with the aim of giving passengers an engaging and unique way to experience the United States like never before.

This 17-day scenic train journey will give travelers a look into some of the United States' most important and iconic landmarks with hop-on-hop-off tours, but also with plenty of room to venture off independently.

The journey begins in Los Angeles, California, a place with plenty of bucket list-worthy things to see and experience . The journey begins with a tour of Hollywood's most iconic landmarks, such as the Chinese Theater and the Walk of Fame, and even venturing into the hills to explore the homes of the stars.

There's a lot to learn about Hollywood's Walk of Fame before you visit!

From there, passengers will board Amtrak's Sunset Limited for a two-day picturesque train trip through the heart of the Southwest's Arizona and New Mexico to San Antonio, Texas. Travelers will spend two nights in San Antonio discovering the Alamo, taking a River Walk Boat Cruise, and enjoying a surprisingly long list of free things to do .

From San Antonio, the train continues onto the Crescent City, New Orleans . The heart and soul of the deep south. Amtrak's passengers will get two adventure-packed (but laid back and slowed down, southern style) days of exploring one of the best cities in America, if not the world.

Exploring the French Quarter while admiring the beautiful architecture, and finding local favorite restaurants will have you leaving the city wishing you were a local.

7 Amtrak Routes That Make Stops At Beautiful Beaches

Continuing on through the heart of the south, passengers will enjoy a day train to Atlanta, the capital city of Georgia, where they will spend 1 day and 2 nights. Atlanta is another great food destination and a wonderful city to explore and discover the diverse population and cultures.

Passengers will even receive a CityPASS to get around and explore all that Atlanta has to offer.

Washington DC

From Atlanta, the train journey continues overnight and arrives in the nation's capital, Washington DC, the next morning. Passengers will get two full days to discover some of the country's most iconic and important landmarks and museums in the U.S., on one of the many guided tours of the trip.

New York City

One last stretch... DC to New York City! After a remarkable coast-to-coast journey, passengers will land in what some consider to be the greatest city in the world, the perfect ending destination for such an impressionable adventure.

However, the trip doesn't end there. Passengers will have the pleasure of enjoying New York's hop-on-hop-off sightseeing tour to discover the city's most iconic buildings and landmarks, with plenty of time to explore the beautiful streets of New York , independently, the perfect end to the ultimate U.S. trip.

There are many reasons to visit DC in the spring , and booking a trip during this time will give travelers the rare opportunity to experience the city's stunning cherry blossoms .

How Much Does The Coast-to-Coast Southern Trail Train Cost? (& How To Book)

17-days, 6 destinations, and 4 guided tour train trips start at $4,949 usd.

The Southern Trail train package tour is one that may not come cheap but will provide an experience of a lifetime. It's a trip that introduces a unique way to see the United States from the comfort of Amtrak's services.

Passengers can expect to pay upwards of $4,949 per person one way , depending on the time of year. Through navigating Amtrak's website, passengers can scroll through the calendar to compare prices and request a quote for the trip's total cost.

It is worth mentioning the trip can be reversed and started in New York City, allowing for flexibility and convenience for each individual traveler. While the cost may sound daunting to some, what is included makes it all worth it and is actually quite reasonable.

Contact one of Amtrak's travel advisors for direct quotes and answers to any questions!

What Is Included In The Southern Trail Package Tour?

Amtrak service, hotels, and city tours are included in this cross-country package.

It's always important to know exactly what is included when booking such a big trip where travelers are putting their trust in a company to provide exactly what is promised. It's always worth contacting one of Amtrak's travel advisors with any questions and concerns regarding the trip.

The Southern Trail package includes train accommodation as well as hotel accommodation, along the way with guided tours and museum and attraction admissions.

What's included in the Southern Trail train trip

• One-way Amtrak in Coach accommodations from Los Angeles to San Antonio; San Antonio to New Orleans; New Orleans to Atlanta; Atlanta to Washington, DC; and Washington, DC to New York on the Sunset Limited®, Crescent®, and Northeast Regional®
• 14 nights hotel accommodations; 2 nights onboard Amtrak
• 1 meal (1 brunch) *Jazz Brunch at The Court of Two Sisters may be substituted with a dinner at an alternative restaurant on select dates.

Explore 5 National Parks In Two Weeks On This Amtrak Trip

Highlights of the amtrak great american - southern trail, experience a tour of los angeles, new orleans' french quarter, and stand at the top of the rock.

While the package tour has some impressive highlights, it is also up to individual travelers what they want to experience and discover in each place. By doing plenty of research on each destination, travelers can be assured of having a trip of a lifetime while discovering the best of what each city has to offer.

However, the package tour comes with a long list of impressionable highlights throughout the trip.

Trip Highlights

• Sightseeing city tour of Los Angeles
• Multi-day hop-on, hop-off w/ River Walk Boat Cruise + Tower of the Americas admission
• Sightseeing city tour of New Orleans
• Georgia Aquarium
• World of Coca-Cola
• Zoo Atlanta
• Plus your choice of admission to 2 of the following attractions:
• Fernbank Museum of Natural History
• Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame
• National Center for Civil and Human Rights
• Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of Washington, DC
• Monuments by Moonlight Tour
• Multi-day hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour of New York
• Admission to the Top of the Rock

Three Scenic Amtrak Routes That Won't Break The Bank

A U.S. coast-to-coast train journey is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that not everyone will have the privilege of being able to embark upon. If the adventure seeker in you is intrigued — and the wanderlust is being ignited — through this introduction, it could be a sign that it's a trip worth investing in.

The Great American-Southern Trail could be the next epic trip of your travel career!