We can all appreciate how much of a draw New York City is for visitors, as well as why its residents so enthusiastically embrace living in this diverse metropolis. But sometimes, we’re in search of a different experience. Whether you’re a New Yorker looking for a weekend getaway destination, or a traveler hoping to expand the scope of your East Coast explorations, these excursions can be just the thing. Check out our top five best day trips from New York. For those destinations with estimated train times, we recommend opting for Amtrak over driving. If you have the flexibility, you can avoid paying loads for parking.
Philadelphia
An ever-popular city with loads of historical attractions like the Betsy Ross House and the Liberty Bell, there’s so much to draw families to Philly. They boast a number of amazing museums, too, like the Franklin Institute Science Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (home of the famed Rocky steps), and the Museum of the American Revolution. Philadelphia is also a major culinary destination. With new restaurants popping up in neighborhoods all over, you only have to explore areas like Rittenhouse Square and Washington Square West to find dozens of delicious places to eat. If you’re looking for something really unique, consider dining at the Moshulu – a restaurant aboard a ship! Getting there: Philadelphia is a two-hour drive or a one and a half-hour train ride from New York. 
Washington DC
It’s on the longish end for a day trip, but it’s well worth it. Check out unique museums like the Newseum and the International Spy Museum, as well as the free Smithsonian offerings. Fortunately for day-trippers, the area near and north of the National Mall is also excellent for shopping and dining. For recommendations, here are our best places to eat in DC. DC is also a great place to take in a sporting event because most of their major stadiums are accessible via the Metro: check out Nationals Park, the Capital One Arena (home to the Washington Capitals), or Audi Field (where the red hot D.C. United soccer team plays). Getting there: Washington DC is a four and a half-hour drive or a three and a half-hour train ride from New York. 
Boston
NYC’s neighbor to the north and cultural rival on multiple fronts, Boston is a perfect day trip city. You can really dig into one part of the city and make a full day out of a museum or three and a couple of great meals. We especially recommend the North End for Italian cuisine and Cambridge for New American favorites. Families will love the New England Aquarium, kids will adore the Museum of Science, and everyone will be inspired by the MFA. Boston is also another great sports town, with Fenway Park and the Boston Garden both representing multiple championship teams. Finally, don’t forget to just take a stroll and enjoy the iconic Boston Common and Boston Public Garden. Getting there: Boston is a four-hour train ride from New York. 
Long Beach Island
This isn’t the closest Jersey Shore destination to New York City, but it’s probably the best one. If you’re willing to take that extra hour or so (depending on traffic) to get down to LBI, you’ll be amply rewarded. The beaches are less crowded than the ones immediately adjacent to NYC—especially the farther south on the island you go—and you can enjoy a better balance of shopping, dining, and sunbathing. Take the kids to Fantasy Island Amusement Park, Thundering Surf Water Park, and/or Settler’s Mill Adventure Golf. There’s shopping to be found in and around Bay Village, and Panzone’s Pizza & Pasta is a Jersey legend. You can also visit the Holgate Nature Conservatory to soak up the natural beauty of this island. Getting there: Long Beach Island is a two and a half-hour drive from New York.
Catskill Mountains
The inspiration for several prominent American artists of the nineteenth century, the Catskill Mountains are a massive protected forest preserve in southeastern New York State that will truly take your breath away with its natural beauty. Come here to kayak the Esopus Creek, bike the Catskill Scenic Trail, or hike Devil’s Path. There are also multiple mountains for skiing in the region. The Catskills are a cultural destination as well, having been home to many arts events and music festivals, including the legendary Woodstock. Now the Bethel Woods Center for the Arts offers an amphitheater, performing arts center, and museum on the former site of the 1969 festival. Getting there: The Catskill Mountains is a three-hour drive from New York.
Save on the Best Day Trips from New York
You can save on a few of these day-trip ideas with Go City. Save up to 55% on top tourist attractions and activities in many cities, including Boston, Philadelphia, DC, and, of course, New York City. It’s a smart way to budget for your ultimate day trip from New York.
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