There is so much beauty to be experienced outside the New York City area. If you live in New York City and want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city there are so many options. Whether you rent a car, take the subway, or use the Amtrak. These are the ten best weekend trips just a few hours from NYC:
The Hudson River Valley
Hudson River Valley is a New York State region that streets along the Hudson Rive from Westchester County to Albany. It is known for its vineyards, orchards, and farms.
North Fork Wine Country
North Fork is known as Long Island’s Wine Country, this robust wine community offers an experience like no other. With over 60 vineyards, breweries and distilleries using locally grown ingredients. The country roads are lined with farm stands, quaint downtowns, charming B&Bs and waterfront properties.
The Hamptons/Montauk
A very common summer escape destination for New York’s elite. Montauk is a village at the east end of Long Islands peninsula. It’s known for its beaches, like Ditch Plains, with its strong Atlantic surf.
Nassau County Beaches
Nassau County is located immediately east of New York City and was the site of many aviation firsts. Military aviators for both World Wars were trained on the Hempstead Plains.
The Catskills/Upstate
The adrenaline junkies dream destination. From Skyrides to ziplines they offer attractions to entertain all ages. You can even bikeride through the mountains on a railway.
Pennings Farm
Pennings Farm holds its position as the only true outdoor Beer Garden venue in Orange County, New York. The Beer Garden has picturesque apple orchards, and has a great vibe for socializing outdoors and drinking in the farm fresh air during the warm spring, summer and early fall seasons.
Outside of the State of New York
Due to the close proximity of the states on the East Coast it is quite easy to get from one state to another. It is even common for people to work in New York City but live in New Jersey, Connecticut, and Philadelphia. With that said there are many great and fun ideas that can be done outside the State of New York without having to travel too far. There are many modes of transportation you can take from one state to the other, like a coach bus, the Amtrak Train, a regular city (my usual commute from Jersey to NYC), the Path train, and a ferry.
New Jersey
Common spots to have a great time is in the The Jersey Shore and Atlantic City. When people think of the Jersey Shore they think of the MTV show but this area is much more than what was depicted in the show. Of course, there is so much more in New Jersey than these two popular places, and if you want to learn more check out my New Jersey guide.
Boston
There is so much history in Massachusetts and a lot of that is located in Boston. If you want to plan a short trip to the Boston area check out this two day trip plan.
Connecticut
My husband and I have been meaning to plan a mini trip to New Haven. Probably all the Gilmore Girls influence, but nonetheless it seems like a great plan.
Philadelphia
Another historical city, and if you want to experience the most in two days check out this guide. Don’t forget to try the infamous Philly cheesesteak while you are there.
Let us know what some of your best weekend trips are a few hours from NYC. We would love to know and explore more places out of the City. Also if you are a New York local please leave your suggestions below!
There is nothing like exploring NYC
I feel like I need to plan a year long trip. I have visited NY and seen many beautiful places across the USA, but I can see there is still so much beauty to take in.
What a great post!!! I am dying to explore bNew York and it’s nearby areas!!!
Love these day trip ideas! I think having spent so much time in NYC during my last trip I would have enjoyed heading out into one of these nature spots.