The 24 Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC – The COMPLETE Guide
+ Amazing Summer Day Trips
Summer in New York can get really hot and humid. Want to escape the heat of the city? There are many destinations near New York City that you can reach perfectly with a day trip from New York in the summer. What do the perfect weekend getaways look like for me this summer? Being by the water, enjoying nature and taking advantage of the good weather to explore major cities like Boston and Philadelphia.
My tip: here you can find all day trips from New York and the best fall getaways from NYC.
24 Amazing Summer Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from New York
But which summer weekend getaway is the best? Here I show the best day trips from and weekend getaways near New York. You can expect beautiful beaches, incredible nature and great city trips.
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01
Ocean City: One of the Best Summer Weekend Getaways from NYC with Kids
Day Trip in Outside of New York 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.
Things to do in Ocean City on your day trip from New York in Summer
- Grab a snack and enjoy ocean views 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
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.
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02
Coney Island Boardwalk
Other Attraction in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
A day trip to Coney Island is definitely worthwhile and while you are there, make sure to stay until sunset. At the beach it is just beautiful and very idyllic.
My tip: These are the best beaches of New York City.
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03
Day Trip to Boston from New York in Summer
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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.
Things to do in Boston on your day trip from New York in Summer
- stroll along Charles River Esplanade
- explore the famed Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- visit the famous Fenway Park (this is the best tour)
- enjoy an iced-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.
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04
Just Amazing: This 2-Days Trip to Niagara Falls in the Summer-Time
Day Trip in Outside of New York CityOur Highlight
If you are in New York in summer 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. Chances are high that you will have fantastic weather. That’s exactly why I think a trip to Niagara Falls is so nice. And if you take a weekend trip, you’ll have plenty of time to see the falls from both the US and Canadian sides.
My tip: These are the 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York.
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05
Among The Best Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC: the White Mountain National Forest
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
If you’re looking for a day trip in the summer 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. You can expect to experience breathtaking scenery, wildlife, clear mountain streams, and lakes, as well as take part in outdoor recreational activities all year.
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.
- Rent a rustic cabin at one of the many sites throughout the forest.
Places To See
- Conway scenic railway
- Polar Caves Park
- Cranmore Mountain Resort
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.
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06
Insider Weekend Getaway from NYC in Summer: Baltimore!
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.
Things to do in Summer in Baltimore on your day trip from New York
- Do a craft-beer brewery tour or whiskey tasting tour (Baltimore is famous for both!)
- Explore the Inner Harbor and the Patapsco River with this amazing cruise
- Enjoy city views 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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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07
American Dream with Entertainment Complex: A Shopping Trip from NYC
Outlet in Outside of New York City
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.
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08
Day Trip (2 days) to Washington D.C., Philadelphia & Amish Country
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
This tour is one of my favorite summer family day trips from NYC. It 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 summer 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
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09
Martha's Vineyard: My Favorite Family Summer Weekend Getaway from NYC
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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.
Things to do at Martha’s Vineyard on your day trip from New York in Summer
- 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.
Places To See
- Gingerbread Houses
- The Island’s five lighthouses
- Alley’s General Store
Helpful links
If you looking for an accommodation check our this website, here you can check the schedule of the ferry and if you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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10
The Finger Lakes: An Amazing Summer Day Trip from NYC for Families
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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 summer day trip from New York
- Go on a wine tasting tour (the Seneca Lake Wine Tasting & Tour is the best!!!).
- Take in a game at NBT Bank Stadium.
- Enjoy dinner and sunset on a boat cruise.
Places To See on your Summer Day Trip from New York
- Watkins Glen State Park (the trail is amazing!)
- Robert Treman State Park
- Rosamond Gifford Zoo
- Corning Museum of Glass
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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11
Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip
Outlet in Outside of New York City
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.
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12
Rockaway Beach
Day Trip in Queens
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)
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13
Central Park: A Perfect Summer Weekend Getaway in New York
Park in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
Central Park spans from Midtown Manhattan all the way up to Harlem. There are about 340 hectares of land and is a popular meeting place for New Yorkers. With about 35 million visitors per year, the man-made park is an attraction not only for tourists. New Yorkers love Central Park and its tranquility. Many events are held here such as the NYC Marathon. There are also tons of green spaces, walking lanes, and bike lanes. Central Park is home to Sheep’s Meadow, Bow Bridge, Bethesda Terrace, Central Park Zoo, and many other things as well.
And it’s perfect when you are looking for a summer day trip for families! Central Park is also a wonderful place that I mention in my ultimate guide to Staycation Hotels in New York.
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14
Day Trip To Washington D.C.: One of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC in Summer
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City and a wonderful destination when you are looking for Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC. You can do it by your own or check out this guided bus tour. The bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill.
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
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.
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15
Spend a Day on Governors Island
Other Attraction in Outside of New York City
When the weather is beautiful in New York City and you want to escape for a moment from the noise, the hustle and bustle, then a trip to Governors Island is something to consider. The Governors Island Ferry will take you across the East River for just $4 with the Governors Island Ferry.
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16
The Palisades, New Jersey
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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)
By the way, there is a really great boat tour of New York in the fall where you can see the gorgeous colorful fall forests 👇
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17
For Nature-Lovers: Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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 summer, go paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, and more.
- Tour the Boscobel House and Gardens.
Places To See on your Day Trip from New York
- Hudson Highlands State Park
- Bannerman Castle
- Little Stony Point
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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18
New York Aquarium: A Perfect Summer Day Trips from NYC for Families
Other Attraction in Coney Island & Brighton Beach
The sea creatures in the aquarium offer a nice alternative if the weather is not suitable for a visit to the beach. Here you can learn everything about the underwater world of the oceans.
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19
Phoenicia: A Great Summer Day Trip from NYC for Families in the Catskill Mountains
Day Trip in Outside of 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.
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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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20
A Summer Day Trip from NYC: Poughkeepsie
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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.
Things to do in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York in the summer-time
- Experience the walkway over the Hudson River.
- Stroll along Hudson River – it is amazing and one of the best spots is by far the Victor C. Waryas Park!
- Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before heading to the Bardavon Opera House to enjoy a show.
Places to see in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York
- Historic Huguenot Street
- Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
- Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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21
New Haven: A Hidden Summer Weekend Getaways near NYC
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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.
Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)
Things to do in New Haven on your day trip from New York
- Enjoy the beach and the sunset at Lighthouse Point Park or at Amarante’s Sea Cliff (62 Cove St, New Haven)
- Tour the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
- Enjoy a show at Shubert Theater.
Places To See
- Yale University
- East Rock Park
- Five Mile Point Light
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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22
Hamilton Township, NJ: A Summer Weekend Getaway for Everyone
Day Trip in Outside of New York CityHamilton 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. 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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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23
Philadelphia Day Trip from New York
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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.
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
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.
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24
Albany
Day Trip in Outside of New York City
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 summer 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
Helpful links
If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site.
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!
More Travel Inspiration
The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York
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