Day Trips from Long Island, NY

1. Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City offers more than casinos, dining and nightlife. The coastal destination is home to a world famous boardwalk that dates back to the 1870’s. Take an ocean-front stroll and enjoy shopping and attractions to one side, and the ocean to the other side. Lucy the Elephant is a 6-story tall historic landmark located along the boardwalk.

Built in the 1800’s, you can take a spiral staircase through her insides to enjoy 360-degree views from the top. Stop by the Abescon lighthouse, New Jersey’s tallest, and the nation’s third tallest. Climb the 228 stairs to the top for a close-up look at the 1854 lens. Galleries and museums include the African American Heritage Museum and the Atlantic City Arts Foundation.

2. Beacon, NY

Beacon is a historic mill town located along the Hudson River in Hudson Valley. After falling into disrepair, the town has recently been revitalized and is now home to the contemporary art facility DIA: Beacon, boutique hotels, hip retailers, and fine restaurants.

The 30,000 square foot DIA is located in an old paper factory and hosts contemporary installations too large for Manhattan’s Guggenheim or MoMa.

An architectural award winning kayak shed is located along the river, where you can rent a boat or simply enjoy the park. Visit the many surrounding galleries and creative shops, many influenced by the draw of DIA. Enjoy a craft brew at Two Way Brewing Company or end the day at Denning’s Point Distillery.

3. Bethlehem, PA

Historic Bethlehem is a National Historic District. Begin your visit at the visitor center for maps and information about the many historic sites in town, most are within walking distance of the visitor center. Take a self-guided tour of Bethlehem or join up with a guide. Sites in town include the 1750 Smithy House, where you can learn about blacksmithing and see a live demonstration. At the 1869 Luckenbach Mill grain was ground into flour well into the 1940’s. A Moravian Museum educates on the history of the Moravians, the 14th century Protestant sect that was largely responsible for founding the town in the 1700’s.

4. Cape May, NJ

Cape May is a peninsula off the New Jersey coast that was named a National Historic District for its large collection of 19th century wood framed Victorian buildings. The walkable destination is divided into three municipalities, West Cape May, Cape May Point and Cape May. A welcome center offers island information, maps and guides. Dining options range from casual seafood shacks to fine cuisine. Explore the outdoors with a trip to the beach, a hike through the nature trails, or guided whale watching trips. Visit art galleries and shops in town, located in historic buildings, or take a ghost tour. The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum includes a hangar filled with historic naval airplanes.

5. Coney Island

New York City’s Coney Island features over 50 independently operated rides and attractions, beach and boardwalk.

During the summer months, a fireworks show takes place every Friday night, many rides remain open until the early hours of the morning. Visit Nathan’s Hotdogs, and the Coney Island Brewing Company.

Coney Island’s Circus Sideshow is among the last in American with a permanent home. The Coney Island Museum features exhibits related to the circus and the history of the famous boardwalk attractions. June’s Mermaid Parade has been running consecutively for over 35 years. The event was founded in 1983 by the non-profit arts organization Coney Island USA.

6. Cornwall, NY

Cornwall, NY is located in the Hudson Valley. Founded in the 1600’s, the picturesque town was named for its resemblance to Cornwall, England. It’s been a destination for outdoor recreationalists since the early 19th century, and is beloved for it’s Hudson River access, the surrounding fields and mountains, fresh air and scenery. Cornwall’s Hudson Highlands Nature Museum offers outdoor programs, wildlife and nature tours. A Saturday farmer’s market features cheeses, baked goods and produces from area farms. Enjoy the river via a kayak tour, or hike into the surrounding Black Rock Forest. Downtown Cornwall is full of eclectic shops, galleries and cafes.

Cornwall, NY 12518

7. Eisenhower Park

Larger than Central Park, Eisenhower Park offers over 930 acres of outdoor space. The park was once privately owned by the Salisbury Country Club, and is has been open to the public since 1944. Swim at the nationally-famous Nassau County Aquatic Center where many of the nation’s top swimmers have competed in events. Enjoy tennis courts, a golf course, miniature golf course, baseball, soccer and football fields, and basketball courts. The Northwell Health Ice Center is home to two indoor and one outdoor skating rinks. An outdoor fitness trail offers two miles of paved jogging or walking paths, dotted with fitness stations. Three playground areas offer climbing and playing equipment for children.

Merrick and Stewart Avenues, East Meadow, NY 11554, Phone: 516-572-0347

8. Fire Island, Long Island

Fire Island is the only federal wilderness preserve in New York State. The National Seashore spans 26 miles of Long Island coastline, conserving maritime forests, dunes and over 250 years of history. Visit the William Floyd Estate to learn about this New York signer of the Declaration of Independence. Join a park ranger for a guided walking tour to learn more about the importance of the barrier beach. Canoe tours take place during the summer months. The 1858 Fire Island Lighthouse is open year-round. Climb the 182 steps to the top for a panoramic view of the park. Seasonal visitor centers at Sailor’s Haven and Watch Hill provide opportunities to learn more about the cultural history of the park.

120 Laurel St, Patchogue, NY 11772, Phone: 631-687-4750

9. Freeport, Long Island

The Village of Freeport, Long Island is a Long Island Neighborhood and home to the Freeport Nautical Mile. The mile-long stretch of scenic waterfront parallels the Woodcleft Canal. A reminder of the island’s maritime past, a wide promenade is lighted with antique lamp posts with shops and restaurants to one side, and a marina to the other. Enjoy fresh seafood at a casual clam shack, or an upscale oyster bar. Visit the fish market, or stroll the boardwalk with an ice cream. Sea Breeze is a four-acre waterfront park offering benches and views of the water. Board a luxury yacht for a local Long Island sunset cruise, or rent a kayak to explore the water on your own.

Freeport, NY 11520

10. Governor’s Island

The 172-acre Governor’s Island is located in New York Harbor, and is easily accessible by ferry. Begin your visit at one of two visitor centers for maps and information, or join a guided tour. Walking tours take place daily, and multiple times on weekends. Summer events on the island include outdoor film festivals, art exhibits, and musical performances. Recreational opportunities include cycling, jogging, kayak rentals, miniature golf and slide hill, which offers slides for all ages. Bring a picnic or reserve your own grilling station for a full day at any one of the island’s picnic tables. Food vendors and food trucks are also scattered throughout.

Governor’s Island, NY 10004