Best Day Trips from New York City

Today, we present the Top 10 Best Day Trips from New York City Weekend Getaways’ which includes the likes of Philadelphia, Rockaway Beach, Atlantic City, and more.

New York City offers endless things to do for travelers, but it’s also a good home base for exploring other spots along the eastern seaboard. Whether you’re looking for a quiet small town or a day at the beach, you’ll find a variety of options within a few hours of the city.

We considered activities, transportation options, and distance to come up with the best day trips from NYC. can’t wait to tell you about it in this travel guide. We’re going to be taking a look at the top 10 Best Day Trips from New York City. Just wait till you see them – something you would never have thought of.

Top 10 Best Day Trips from New York City

Here, are the list of Top 10 Best Day Trips from New York City  Adventure and Unique Destinations just hours from New York City.

Number 10: Governor’s Island

Governor’s Island Located a stone’s throw from Manhattan, about 800 yards in fact, and from Brooklyn just 400 yards, this 172-acre island is accessible by a ferry from either the Battery Maritime Building in Manhattan or Pier Six in Brooklyn for a $2 round-trip fare. Not bad. The island is a great place to spend the day biking, walking, ziplining, or attending a festival, but not all at the same time, of course. Keep in mind it’s only open from May through October.

Number 9: Rockaway Beach

For a quick jaunt to the beach, head to this stretch of sand in Queens. This family-friendly beach is home to the city’s only surfing areas, as well as a boardwalk, several playgrounds, and plenty of affordable eats. Sounds great. You can reach Rockaway Beach by the A-train or take the scenic ferry for only $2.75 one way.

Number 8: Atlantic City

The famous Atlantic City Boardwalk is only about 120 miles south of NYC, meaning it’s possible to spend the day at the beach without having to spend the night. That way, you can be at work at your desk on time in the morning. If you do want to make a weekend out of it, though, you’ll have plenty of hotels to choose from, as well as casinos, restaurants, and spas. Sounds right up my street.

Number 7: Fire Island

Sitting about 60 miles east of the heart of New York City, this barrier island is an ideal summertime retreat for those who don’t want to splurge on a Hamptons vacation. You can easily spend the day lounging along the Fire Island National Seashore or Robert Moses State Park. Once the sun sets, head to Ocean Beach to enjoy the island’s famous nightlife.

Number 6: Hartford

The capital of Connecticut sits less than 120 miles north of NYC and is accessible by train, bus, or car. The city is home to a range of historical attractions that literary fans will love, including the Mark Twain House and Museum, which dates back to 1874. If literary history doesn’t really float your boat, you can also take your pick of golf courses in the area. Now you’re talking.

Number 5: Mystic

This seaport village at the mouth of the Mystic River has been around since the 17th century. Today, it’s home to two of Connecticut’s most visited attractions – the Mystic Seaport and the Mystic Aquarium. After a day of sightseeing (and not looking into a crystal ball at Mystic Aquarium – oh, never mind), head to Mystic Pizza, the restaurant that inspired the 1988 movie starring Julia Roberts, before driving the 130 miles back to NYC.

Number 4: Cape May

A drive of about 160 miles down the Garden State Parkway will land you in this delightful Jersey Shore town. You can spend the day lounging on the clean beaches or meandering through the National Historic Landmark District – the only entire U.S. city to be designated as such – to see the grand, colorful Victorian homes.

Number 3: Providence

Now for the top three, and in at three, Providence – about 180 miles northeast of NYC. Providence is a slightly farther trip, but it can be reached by car, bus, or train. This city offers a walkable downtown and a mix of historical and cultural attractions. You could spend a full day exploring the RISD Museum but save time to admire the colonial homes along Benefit Street before dining on Italian cuisine in Federal Hill.

Now at Number 2: The Catskills

The Catskills Situated about 140 miles north of New York City, this mountain region is perfect for exploring the great outdoors year-round. In the warmer months, travelers can camp, hike, and fish around the various towns and lakes, while autumn is perfect for taking scenic drives to admire the fall foliage and covered bridges. Come winter, this vacation spot is a convenient option for skiing and snowboarding.

Finally, at Number 1: Philadelphia

About 100 miles south of NYC, the nation’s first capital city is rife with activities for all types of travelers. Culture hounds can wander the Philadelphia Museum of Art, history buffs can sightsee at Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Centre, and everyone will enjoy the food at Reading Terminal Market. Philly can easily be reached by bus, train, or car. we are sure that’s a song that was on Philadelphia Records. And there you have the Top Best Day Trips from New York City

FAQ: Best Day Trips from New York City

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