Looking for the best day trips from NYC? Aim for those with less than two hours of driving to make the most of your day.
If you have a car, that’s great! If not, a direct bus or train ride from one of the NYC stations will come in handy. You don’t need to look any further because we’ll be covering them all below.
In each of these cities, we round up three incredible activities and places to visit so you don’t have to plan it yourself.
From history to hiking, from shopping to food, it’s time to let the game begin!
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1. New Haven
With only 90 minutes by car and two hours by bus from Port Authority Bus Terminal, New Haven emerges as a quirky European-touched town for history buffs and culture vultures.
A short ride northwest along the Long Island Sound soon grants you architecturally stunning landscapes, plenty of heritage Gothic buildings, and stellar parks to unwind in the shades.
This bustling gem of Connecticut is most known as the home of the world-renowned Ivy League Yale University.
This first planned city in the US is enriched with a strong academic feel that draws crowds of students. For that reason, big foodies from NYC find it hard to leave behind such an amalgamation of culinary tastes.
Venturing out to New Haven on a day trip?
Here are the best three things to make the most of your discovery.
Yale University Art Gallery
Spreading across multiple heritage blocks, the Yale University Art Gallery acts as a treasure trove for art lovers, keeping everything from statues and pottery to currency and mosaics intact since it first opened its door in 1832.
The entrance is free and wait time is barely a thing here. They have a locker outside to keep your bags before you’re awestruck by the ample space that’s flooded with sunlight.
To round up over 13,000 pieces here, plan wisely and visit the gallery first thing in the morning.
It may take you nearly half a day to complete, but the helpful staff and portable stools make the visit a lot more relaxing.
Address: 1111 Chapel Street (at York Street), New Haven, CT
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East Rock Park
What’s so special about this 427-acre-old rock ridge?
In less than 10 minutes drive northeast of Yale University, East Rock Park is perfectly preserved in this part of the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, boasting an impeccable view perched above the 200 million-year-old ridge.
The park serves as a beacon for ardent hikers that like to challenge themselves on a 45-minute difficult hike to the rocky bluff on the steep trail.
But if your core is not very forgiving on such a tiring climb, a car ride straight to the top is totally accessible.
Address: 41 Cold Spring St, New Haven, CT 06511
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
In New Haven, pizza is not just a dish, it’s an ideology. It’s so famous that the people are so proud of their New Haven–style pizza – a thin-crust, coal-fired Neapolitan pizza that takes the States by storm.
While you’re there, it’s about time to visit the very first restaurant where New Haven-style pizza was born, Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana based out of Wooster Square Historic District.
Their pizzas are huge, for real, and the staff works so hard to fit in. Plus the crowds move fast so your dining experience here will never disappoint.
Go for their original New Haven-style pizza if you don’t like sloppy slices that are overly greasy. If you’re lucky when their White Clam Pizza is still available on order, go for that!
Fresh clam paired beautifully with bacon makes the flavor profile truly outstanding.
Address: 157 Wooster Street, New Haven, CT 06511
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2. Stamford
Just over an hour by train on the Metro-North commuter rail from Grand Central Station, the rectangular strip of Stamford offers a gorgeous blend of natural beauty and sprawling life.
This Connecticut metropolis is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring local arts, a high-end dining scene, and an army of coastal activities to celebrate the sunny days.
Check out these three best places to visit in Stamford to make the most of your day trip from NYC.
Harbor Point
The Harbor Point Boardwalk creates a complete point-to-point loop tucking the entire South End at its heart.
When the sun beams down, the majestic skyline reflects its dramatic glows on the water, delivering an enchanting scene to feed the eyes.
There are plenty of spots to rest your cores along the boardwalk watching seagulls and dolphins making a scene at a distance.
Bedford Street
A day trip from NYC to Stamford is not complete without a getaway to Bedford Street to shop and dine.
This extensive strip north of Stamford is rich in shopping possibilities where local boutiques, retailers, and delectable cafes come in a roll call.
Heavyweights like Fish Restaurant + Bar, Mecha Noodle Bar, and Chez Vous Bistro have turned this heritage street into some of the town’s most renowned convergent points for decadent cuisine.
Cove Island Park
The 83-acre park juts out from The Cove, separating Holly Pond from the north and Cove Harbor from the south.
Today, the park serves as a romantic getaway for Stamford residents with its serene setting to engage in an afternoon walk.
There is a clean sandy beach called Cove Beach North where people boat, walk their dogs, and BBQ.
Address: 1125 Cove Rd, Stamford, CT 06902.
3. White Plains
The history-rich sleepy urban of White Plains is barely more than 45 minutes by car from NYC, while trains from Grand Central Terminal to North White Plains are just over an hour.
White Plains has more to offer than a mere shopping mecca, even though heavyweights like the Westchester, Galleria, and Crossroads keep drawing crowds to seek NY-based specialty stores.
The Revolutionary War has a close bond with the history of White Plains. Roaming through the White Plains Armory where the first reading of the Declaration of Independence was read out loud on July 11, 1776, and visiting the Jacob Purdy Farm House keep history enthusiasts thrilled. But that’s not all.
Here are our three favorite things to do in White Plains to celebrate the great outdoors it has to offer.
White Plains Farmers’ Market
Taking over the small strip of Court Street between Martine Ave and Main Street, White Plains Farmers’ Market is an every Wednesday thing where fresh fruits, herbs, artisan bread, and specialties come with good deals.
There are about 19 vendors doling out honey, pies, burgers, and organics under the white umbrellas.
The market is closed in the afternoon so make sure you plan accordingly.
Address: 59 Court St, White Plains, NY 10601
Cranberry Lake Preserve
What does this watershed land have in store for you?
Is it a beautiful hike through the forest passing by lakes before landing at the shore of Kensico Reservoir?
Or is it an educational walk seeking birds, turtles, and dragonflies?
The rugged terrain here shelters some of the most amazing biodiversity in all of White Plains, yet less popular to crowds, making forest bathing in peace here an absolute excitement.
Address: 1609 Old Orchard St, West Harrison, NY 10604
Bowlero White Plains
If you’ve had enough from all the hiking, get back to the bowling alley and arcade center of Bowlero on Tarrytown Road to call it a day.
With 56 lanes lit up in neon lights along with awesome eats like juicy wings and monster burgers, Bowlero has been keeping the young of White Plains entertained for ages.
For those that wanna look back on their 80s and 90s past, the arcade lounge housing everything from Mario Kart to Pac-Man will have you in awe.
Address: 47 Tarrytown Rd., White Plains, NY 10607
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4. Delaware River
After an hour and 15 minutes ride west of NYC, the Delaware River serves as the biggest hook for classic summertime fun such as boating, kayaking, and tubing.
This is a major US waterway spilling through five different states, feeding fresh water to millions of people, and hosting an abundance of wildlife.
Right here in Philadelphia, waterfront fun comes in a roll call.
Families with kids strut down the shore to check out bustling seasonal parks like Spruce Street Harbor Park and Independence Blue Cross RiverRink.
Meanwhile, a stone’s throw from Historic District takes you to Penn’s Landing where art performances hypnotize sentimental souls for ages.
But that’s not all.
Here are three other great activities to jot down your bucket list.
Go Kayaking And Tubing Down Delaware
This historic river is huge, allowing you to launch your boats at several points such as Barryville, Sparrowbush, Matamoras, or Matamoras.
You have two options – either get to one of those spots and rent a canoe or tube, or sign up for a day trip directly from NYC, which is just over an hour one way.
Some organized trips include a visit to a winery or a picnic lunch.
Depending on your fitness level, bracing the waves can last somewhere between two to four hours.
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Campers and forest bathers assemble! If you ever make your way down the Delaware River, there’s no reason to miss out on this incredible forested preserve!
This lush greenery sits on the border between New Jersey and Pennsylvania, enriched by insightful museums, extensive trails, and prime eats.
Once a famous summer retreat for passengers from New York City and Philadelphia, the Delaware Water Gap area today thrives with a multitude of reputable inns that used to host notable guests.
Theodore Roosevelt, Fred Astaire, and Bette Davis were a few to be named.
This vast wetland will easily eat up a whole day of your trip. However, there are some great organized trips that help you make a wiser plan.
If you’re not on a shoestring, consider opting for an air tour that surveys the majesty of Delaware Water Gap National for half an hour.
Address: 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
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Alba Vineyard & Winery
Last but not least, the award-winning winery, undoubtedly an unmatched service in the East Coast, beckons sommeliers and wine connoisseurs from NYC to taste a selection of fine wines.
Here, they curate over three round-ups including Classic, Red, and Reserve. Each wine flight includes four 2.5 ounces samples.
Their tasting room is open daily, with unobstructed views of the estate vineyards and the rolling hills of Warren County.
The outdoor arbor is open from mid-April to October while outdoor seating is available on a first come – first serve basis for a group of up to four people.
Meanwhile, larger groups of up to seven guests can arrange a reservation.
Address: 269 County Rd 627, Milford, NJ 08848
5. Trenton, NJ
Though a relatively young country, America is blessed with such a fascinating history.
There are plenty of incredible historical cities sprinkled all over the US where diverse pasts have helped streamlined their cultures today.
Located in Mercer County on the Delaware River, Trenton is one of those cities that are so proud of their past. Trenton drives forward with a sprawling culture and modern attractions.
A short car ride from NYC needs no more than 90 minutes, while a train ride between the Pennsylvania Station and Trenton Transit Center is only an hour and 35 minutes.
1719 William Trent House Museum
Just a few blocks away from the shore of the Delaware River, the 1719 William Trent House Museum opens an insightful trip to the past inside a two-story brick house set amidst a romantic environment.
Going strong since 1719, the museum is now recognized as the oldest building that still exists in Trenton, which was once built as the dwelling house of William Trent who established the capital city of New Jersey.
Address: 15 Market St, Trenton, NJ 08611
Admission Rate:
| Type | Price |
| Adults | $5.00 |
| Children and Seniors | $4.00 |
| Members | FREE |
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Old Barracks Museum
There’s no doubt that the Old Barracks is on the bucket lists of many out-of-towners hitting Trenton for the first time.
With its story traced back to 1758, the museum once served as a military garrison during three major combats of the country before transforming into a lively gallery filled with hands-on experiences.
Today, the Old Barracks is stocked up with replicas, installations, and a rich history that reflects what once happened during the American Revolution as well as the Franco-Indian War.
Address: 101 Barrack St, Trenton, NJ 08608
Admission Rate:
| Type | Price |
| Adults | $10 |
| Students & Seniors | $8 |
| Active Military and Children under 5 yrs | Free |
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Hike the Delaware and Raritan Canal State Park Trail
Learning history doesn’t always have to do with museums.
Hiking to a historic canal set behind the woods is another great way to be part of Trenton’s amazing past.
Delaware & Raritan Canal State Park is home to at least eight forested trails with various elevation gains and difficulty levels.
You may encounter those as flat as ten feet as the Towpath Loop via Maple Road or up to 633 feet like the Canal Trail.
Not only is it nourished with an incredible biodiversity and valuable wildlife collection, but the State Park also celebrates a colorful selection of outdoor pursuits in a real peaceful setting.
6. Cold Spring
The shortest way to reach Cold Spring from NYC by public transport is to take a train from the Grand Central Terminal on the Metro-North Railroad’s Hudson Line to Cold Spring Station.
That would be an hour and 20 minutes one way. However, those on their own wheels only need an hour and ten minutes to drive.
This tranquil town lies by the edge of the Hudson River Valley, nourished with history and blended with a modern energy.
At the very beginning of the day trip, you will be hooked by the enchanting beauty driving along the Palisades Parkway.
Shady trees shelter the sidewalks, creating a selection of beautiful state parks to unplug from the chaos back home.
Hit The Trails
The Appalachian Trail is inarguably the most sought-after hike in Cold Spring. It is broken down into smaller sections with various difficulty levels and Anthony’s Nose is one of them.
For those who don’t mind a bit of climbing in exchange for a rewarding view at the end, then the Storm King Mountain hike is an excellent choice that boasts an impeccable wraparound vista over the Hudson River from the summit.
If you’d rather stay close to the city core, you should be able to find plenty of short easy trails just off the side of the road.
These trails walk you through the historical buildings and museums.
Bannerman Castle
Diving deep into the happenings by the shore of the Hudson River may eventually lead you to Bannerman Castle.
A visit to this historical sight can be combined with a kayak tour or a ferry ride setting out from Beacon.
Though mostly wired to the major events of the Revolutionary War, the Bannerman Castle also houses unknown love stories and untold Native American taboos.
Address: 2 Red Flynn Dr, Beacon, NY 12508
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West Point Foundry Preserve
Visitors to the West Point Foundry Preserve admit that it’s a perfect time capsule where the old buildings, ironworks, waterfalls, and amazing fields have perfectly stood the test of time.
All ruins are scattered throughout the foundry, connected to a range of shady trails along the bubbling streams.
Address: 80 Kemble Ave, Cold Spring, NY 10516.
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7. Long Island
Sun, sand, and sea – Long Island is undoubtedly one of the most popular day trips from NYC with just an hour’s ride directly by car.
With the extensive strip of fine beaches wrapping all four directions, Long Island is a heaven on earth for New Yorkers to soak in the waters, eat real good bagels, and survey some of the most expensive mansions in all of the country.
Here are our three favorite activities to do in Long Island for a day.
Shore-Side Fun At Long Island’s Best Beaches
If you’re unsure where to go on Long Island, simply hit the beaches! This classic fun in the sun guarantees amazing camping trips and stellar oceanfront eateries.
Some are more crowded than others while some are specifically great for biking and hosting festivals.
Jones Beach State Park, for us, is the most talked-about of all.
This South Shore gem is fully equipped with well-kept facilities and the waves are never too intense.
Getting on a camping trip? Check out Lido Beach where its 190 campsites draw families in and out of town on any given summer day.
If ditching the crowds is your ultimate goal, drive a bit further to Orient Beach. The turquoise water is sparklingly beautiful with the mild waves kissing the sandy shore day and night.
People come here to play water sports, spot wildlife, and go fishing.
The Adventure Park at Long Island
Embark on an exhilarating adventure as you’re holding on to dear life while soaring through the deep end at one of the 49 ziplines at Long Island Adventure Park.
Families with kids love this place, as well as teens and groups of friends that wanna make the most of this lush greenery and feel some zing in their core.
The park offers a variety of courses ranging through various difficulty levels.
On top of that, the staff ensures your safety is the top priority. So make sure you spend 10 really good minutes on safety procedures before taking on the ropes.
Address: 75 Colonial Springs Rd, Wheatley Heights, NY 11798
Admission Rate:
| Window Rate | Buy Online & Save | |
| General Admission: Ages 14+ | $79 | $69 |
| General Admission: Ages 7 – 13 | $69 | $59 |
| Adventure Playground: Ages 3 – 6 | $15 | $15 |
| Last Call: Ages 7+ | $57 | $57 |
Note:
- Ticket prices are based on the number of trails available for each age group.
- Adventure Playground tickets are valid for 1 hour.
- Reservations are strongly recommended.
- Ticket prices are based on the number of trails available for each age group.
- Prices are subject to change.
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Explore Green Port
Green Port is an every-season thing. Jutting out from the northern fork of Long Island, this coastal town beckons the attention of wine lovers thanks to its thriving scene of respected winemakers.
To celebrate the rich agriculture industry, Green Port also hosts lots of small farms nestled beside extensive flower fields.
Travel further afield from the sun-kissed rolling hills of vineyards and farms is a bustling shoreline full of life.
Stop by Mitchell Park for a leisure walk to watch life go by or ride the heritage carousel.
These blissful day trips away from the Big Apple are most favored by New Yorker couples.
Do you know what else is underlined on their bucket list? A wonderful date idea! Here are 11 of them to inspire if you’re ever in the mood for a memorable date in NYC.