When you are a New Yorker like I was for 10 years, a weekend on Long Island sounds like a great idea every time. Ready for a refreshing change of scenery from Long Island? I discovered day trips that led to historic villages, scenic vineyards, and coastal parks. You'll find a peaceful break from the everyday, just a short drive away.
Best Day Trips from Long Island:
1. Atlantic City, NJ - 2.5 hours from NYC
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Atlantic City, NJHighlights:
If you’re craving an easy coastal escape from NYC that blends beach vibes with quirky charm, Atlantic City’s got you covered. It’s way more than casinos—think history, boardwalk strolls, and unique sights you won’t forget.Recommended For:
Beach lovers, history buffs, art enthusiasts, families, and anyone who enjoys a mix of classic and kitschy attractions.What I Love: ♥
Oceanfront boardwalk walks, iconic landmarks like Lucy the Elephant, and a surprisingly rich art and museum scene.- Stroll the world-famous Atlantic City boardwalk, established in the 1870s, with ocean on one side and shops, arcades, and attractions on the other.
- Climb inside Lucy the Elephant, a 6-story historic roadside attraction offering panoramic coastal views from her howdah (yes, really!).
- Visit the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest in New Jersey, and climb 228 stairs for a close-up of its original 1854 lens.
- Explore vibrant art spaces like the African American Heritage Museum and Atlantic City Arts Foundation for rotating exhibits and murals.
Distance from NYC:
Expect the drive to take about 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.How to Get to Atlantic City:
From NYC, take the Garden State Parkway south or hop on a Greyhound or NJ Transit bus from Port Authority. There’s also Amtrak and NJ Transit service to the Atlantic City Rail Terminal.2. Beacon, NY - 1.5 hours from NYC
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Location:
Beacon, NYHighlights:
Looking for a quick escape with serious artsy charm? Beacon’s got the Hudson River views, cool galleries, and small-town vibes that feel a world away from NYC.Recommended For:
Art lovers, weekend wanderers, design enthusiasts, and anyone craving creative energy in a riverfront setting.What I Love: ♥
The massive DIA:Beacon art space, riverfront kayaking, and sipping craft spirits after a gallery stroll.- Explore DIA:Beacon, a contemporary art museum housed in a sprawling former paper factory, showcasing monumental works that don’t fit in NYC’s traditional galleries.
- Wander through local galleries and independent shops, many of which have sprung up thanks to DIA’s creative pull.
- Relax by the Hudson River or rent a kayak from the award-winning riverside shed and paddle the scenic shoreline.
- Unwind with a local pint at Two Way Brewing Company or enjoy small-batch spirits at Denning’s Point Distillery.
Distance from NYC:
About 1.5 hours by car or Metro-North train from Grand Central.How to Get to Beacon:
Take the Metro-North Hudson Line to Beacon Station. The museum and main town attractions are walkable from the station, or a quick ride away.3. Bethlehem, PA - 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from NYC
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Location:
Bethlehem, PAHighlights:
Want a getaway where you can walk through living history without leaving charm behind? Bethlehem’s cobblestone streets, colonial roots, and welcoming vibes are just the ticket.Recommended For:
History buffs, architecture lovers, families, and anyone curious about early American life.What I Love: ♥
Restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings, interactive blacksmith demos, and stories of the Moravians who built it all.- Start at the Visitor Center for maps, info, and tips—most historic sites are within easy walking distance.
- Tour the 1750 Smithy House to watch live blacksmithing in action and learn how tools were made in the colonial era.
- Explore the 1869 Luckenbach Mill, where flour was milled until the 1940s, and see the preserved industrial past.
- Learn about the Moravians—a 14th-century Protestant sect—at the Moravian Museum, and how they founded the town in the 1700s.
Distance from NYC:
Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes by car.How to Get to Bethlehem:
Drive west via I-78 or I-80, or take a bus from Port Authority to Bethlehem Transit Center. The historic downtown is walkable from there.4. Cape May, NJ - 3 hours by car
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Location:
Cape May, NJHighlights:
If you're dreaming of beach time with a side of Victorian charm, Cape May is an ideal long-weekend escape. From seaside strolls to ghost tours, this historic coastal town has more to offer than just sun and sand.Recommended For:
Beachgoers, history lovers, architecture fans, families, and anyone craving a charming coastal getaway.What I Love: ♥
Walkable streets lined with colorful Victorian homes, fresh seafood, and access to both nature and naval aviation history.- Wander through Cape May’s three municipalities—Cape May, West Cape May, and Cape May Point—for beachy charm and historic architecture.
- Visit the Welcome Center for maps and ideas, then hit the beach, hike the local nature trails, or join a whale-watching cruise.
- Dine at everything from casual seafood joints to upscale restaurants—many tucked into beautifully preserved Victorian buildings.
- Explore the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, where restored military aircraft and hands-on exhibits fill a historic hangar.
- Don’t miss art galleries, boutique shopping, or one of the town’s beloved ghost tours through candlelit streets.
Distance from NYC:
About 3 hours by car, depending on traffic.How to Get to Cape May:
Drive south via Garden State Parkway, or take a bus to Wildwood and a local taxi or shuttle to Cape May. Ferry service is also available from Lewes, Delaware.5. Coney Island - 1 hour by subway from Midtown
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Location:
Coney Island, Brooklyn, NYHighlights:
Need a quick escape without actually leaving the city? Coney Island is your go-to for nostalgic fun, ocean air, and just enough weirdness to keep things exciting.Recommended For:
Fun-loving couples, thrill seekers, nostalgia fans, and anyone who wants beach vibes with a big side of character.What I Love: ♥
Classic rides, boardwalk eats, freak shows, fireworks, and that iconic summertime buzz.- Ride the Cyclone, Wonder Wheel, and over 50 other rides and attractions operated independently across this legendary seaside amusement zone.
- Watch fireworks light up the sky every Friday night in summer—many rides stay open late so you can keep the fun going.
- Eat at the original Nathan’s Hot Dogs and sip a brew at Coney Island Brewing Company.
- Experience one of the last traditional circus sideshows in America, or browse quirky exhibits at the Coney Island Museum.
- Join the annual Mermaid Parade in June—running strong since 1983—full of glitter, sea creatures, and wild homemade costumes.
Distance from Manhattan:
About 1 hour by subway from Midtown.How to Get to Coney Island:
Hop on the D, F, N, or Q subway lines to Stillwell Avenue—just steps from the boardwalk and beach. Driving is also an option, but parking can fill quickly on summer weekends.6. Cornwall, NY - 1 hour and 30 minutes by car
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Location:
Cornwall, NYHighlights:
If you’re craving a fresh-air reset that’s quick from the city, Cornwall is your spot. With river views, mountain trails, and a cozy downtown, this Hudson Valley gem delivers serious chill vibes.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, weekend hikers, families, and anyone who wants to swap screen time for sunshine.What I Love: ♥
Kayaking the Hudson, hiking Black Rock Forest, and unwinding at a Saturday farmers market with local cheese and fresh pastries.- Stroll downtown Cornwall for quirky shops, art galleries, and laid-back cafés with small-town charm.
- Hike into Black Rock Forest for scenic mountain trails and peaceful woodland escapes.
- Learn at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum, offering family-friendly nature programs and outdoor wildlife tours.
- Shop the Saturday farmers market for seasonal produce, baked goods, and artisan treats from local farms.
- Explore the Hudson River by kayak with a guided tour that showcases the area’s natural beauty.
Distance from NYC:
Around 1 hour and 30 minutes by car.How to Get to Cornwall:
Take I-87 north to Route 32 or hop on Metro-North to Salisbury Mills–Cornwall Station, then take a short taxi or ride-share into town.7. Eisenhower Park - 1 hour by car or LIRR from NYC
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Location:
East Meadow, NYHighlights:
Want all the space of Central Park—but with way fewer crowds? Head to Eisenhower Park for a full day of outdoor fun, sports, and fresh air just outside the city.Recommended For:
Families, fitness lovers, casual athletes, and anyone looking for a spacious green escape on Long Island.What I Love: ♥
Olympic-caliber swimming, year-round skating, endless sports courts, and a fitness trail that actually makes working out fun.- Swim at the Nassau County Aquatic Center, where national swim competitions take place in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Play a round of golf, hit the tennis courts, or bring the kids for mini golf, baseball, soccer, football, and basketball fun.
- Skate year-round at the Northwell Health Ice Center, with two indoor rinks and an outdoor one in the winter.
- Walk or jog the two-mile paved fitness trail, with outdoor workout stations to keep things interesting.
- Let the kids burn off energy at one of three large playgrounds filled with climbing structures and play equipment.
Distance from NYC:
About 1 hour by car or LIRR, depending on your starting point.How to Get to Eisenhower Park:
Drive via Meadowbrook Parkway to Merrick or Stewart Avenue, or take the LIRR to Westbury or East Meadow and hop a short taxi or rideshare to the park.8. Fire Island, Long Island - 2 hours, depending on your ferry terminal
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Location:
Fire Island, NYHighlights:
Need a peaceful, car-free escape with beach trails and historic charm? Fire Island is a true gem—New York’s only federal wilderness preserve, just a short ferry ride away.Recommended For:
Nature lovers, history buffs, quiet beachgoers, and anyone craving coastal wilderness with no cars in sight.What I Love: ♥
Ranger-led tours, historic lighthouses, and miles of boardwalk and beach where the pace slows way down.- Explore the Fire Island National Seashore, a 26-mile preserve protecting dunes, maritime forests, and over two centuries of heritage.
- Visit the William Floyd Estate, home of a Declaration of Independence signer, and wander its preserved 18th-century grounds.
- Join ranger-led walks or summer canoe tours to learn about the fragile ecosystem and the role Fire Island plays in protecting Long Island’s coast.
- Climb the 1858 Fire Island Lighthouse—182 steps to sweeping Atlantic views and photo ops for days.
- Stop by the Sailor’s Haven and Watch Hill visitor centers for seasonal programs and a deeper dive into the island’s natural and cultural history.
Distance from NYC:
About 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your ferry terminal.How to Get to Fire Island:
Drive or take the LIRR to Patchogue, Sayville, or Bay Shore, then board a ferry to your chosen section of the island. Most areas are car-free, so pack light and plan to walk or bike.Family Day Trips from Long Island:
9. Freeport - About 1 hour by car or LIRR
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Location:
Freeport, Long Island, NYHighlights:
Want an easygoing waterfront escape with seafood, sunsets, and a hint of old-school charm? Freeport’s Nautical Mile is perfect for a breezy day trip that feels like vacation without the travel stress.Recommended For:
Seafood lovers, boat enthusiasts, couples looking for a low-key escape, and families who enjoy scenic walks and waterfront dining.What I Love: ♥
The marina-front promenade, charming lamp-lit boardwalk, and options to cruise, kayak, or simply eat your way down the mile.- Stroll the Nautical Mile, a mile-long waterfront stretch along the Woodcleft Canal, lined with shops, seafood joints, and boat docks.
- Eat fresh clams at a casual shack or treat yourself at an upscale oyster bar—both steps from the water.
- Relax at Sea Breeze Park, a four-acre green space with benches and beautiful water views, ideal for unwinding or snapping sunset photos.
- Browse the local fish market or grab ice cream and wander the promenade under antique-style lamp posts.
- Get on the water with a kayak rental or hop aboard a luxury yacht for a laid-back Long Island sunset cruise.
Distance from NYC:
About 1 hour by car or LIRR.How to Get to Freeport:
Take the LIRR from Penn Station to Freeport Station, then walk or take a quick taxi to the Nautical Mile. Driving? Use Sunrise Highway or the Meadowbrook Parkway for a direct route.10. Governor’s Island - Just 8 minutes by ferry from NYC from the Battery Maritime Building
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Location:
Governor’s Island, NYHighlights:
Looking for a quick city escape that feels totally different but takes less than 10 minutes to reach? Governor’s Island is like NYC’s secret backyard—with history, green space, and summer vibes galore.Recommended For:
Families, weekend wanderers, cyclists, picnic lovers, and anyone who wants fresh air with skyline views.What I Love: ♥
Ferry rides with harbor breezes, artsy events all summer, and picnics with a front-row seat to Lady Liberty.- Catch the ferry to Governor’s Island and start your adventure at one of two visitor centers with maps, info, and helpful tips.
- Join a free walking tour offered daily, with extra weekend times to explore the island’s military past and cultural landmarks.
- Play all day with bike rentals, jogging paths, kayak launches, mini golf, and Slide Hill—yes, there are giant slides for kids and adults alike.
- Enjoy seasonal events like open-air movies, art exhibits, and live music performances across the park’s lawns and historic buildings.
- Eat from rotating food trucks or pack a picnic—reserve a grill or grab one of the many shady picnic tables scattered throughout the island.
Distance from Manhattan:
Just 8 minutes by ferry from the Battery Maritime Building.How to Get to Governor’s Island:
Take the ferry from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn Bridge Park’s Pier 6. Ferries run regularly, and bikes are welcome on board.Plan Your Trip