No car? No problem! These getaways from NYC without a car are easy to reach by train, bus, or ferry—and packed with charm, nature, and city escapes perfect for a stress-free weekend.
Highlights:
Unique Weekend Getaways from NYC Without a Car:
1. Governors Island
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
New York Harbor, NYCHighlights:
If you're looking for a breezy urban escape with a side of history and adventure, Governors Island is your go-to. Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn, this 172-acre oasis in New York Harbor blends military legacy with modern recreation and art.Recommended For:
History buffs, families, adventure seekers, and anyone craving green space, waterfront views, and cultural events in NYC.What I Love: ♥
The peaceful parkland, interactive historic sites, skyline views, ziplining fun, and seasonal festivals—all just minutes from the city bustle.- Explore Governors Island National Monument, a 22-acre historic area managed by the National Park Service that tells the story of the island’s military past.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn about the island's evolution from U.S. Army and Coast Guard post to public paradise.
- Enjoy recreational adventures including ziplining, rock climbing, and spacious lawns perfect for picnicking or lounging.
- Attend seasonal cultural events like the Governors Island Art Fair, held every weekend in September, and other rotating exhibitions and festivals.
- Escape the city's hustle while still enjoying skyline views, walking and biking paths, hammocks, and outdoor dining options.
2. Wave Hill
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Location:
The Bronx, NYHighlights:
If you’re searching for peace, beauty, and a touch of history, Wave Hill is a must-visit retreat in the Riverdale section of the Bronx. With stunning views of the Hudson River and Palisades, this 28-acre estate offers public gardens, walking trails, and a deep connection to nature, art, and culture.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, history buffs, artists, families, and anyone seeking a quiet, scenic day trip from the city.What I Love: ♥
The diverse gardens, woodland trails, historic architecture, and year-round concerts—all just a short ride from Manhattan.- Explore the Perennial flower garden, aquatic and monocot garden, alpine dry garden, and the sprawling 10-acre Abrons Woodland.
- Step inside the Marco Polo Stufano Conservatory to discover a lush tropical room and a rare cactus collection.
- Learn about its rich past—originally built in 1843, Wave Hill once hosted guests like Theodore Roosevelt and Mark Twain.
- Visit on a Sunday to enjoy ticketed concerts showcasing a variety of musical performances in an intimate, scenic setting.
- Stroll through the estate’s landscaped terraces and natural woodlands with views that change beautifully across the seasons.
3. Asbury Park
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Location:
Asbury Park, NJHighlights:
Whether you’re a music lover, beachgoer, or just craving a nostalgic boardwalk vibe, Asbury Park delivers. This iconic seaside city blends Jersey Shore fun with legendary rock history, creating a one-of-a-kind coastal destination that’s alive with culture and creativity.Recommended For:
Music fans, families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy beachside fun with a heavy dose of personality and local pride.What I Love: ♥
The live shows at The Stone Pony, retro pinball action at the Silverball Museum, and the mix of quirky shops, seafood festivals, and ocean views along the boardwalk.- Visit the famed Stone Pony, a legendary rock venue that helped launch the careers of icons like Bruce Springsteen and Jon Bon Jovi.
- Catch major concerts at the 1920s-era Paramount Theatre, a beautifully restored oceanfront landmark.
- Stroll the lively boardwalk lined with arcades, vintage shops, bars, and food stalls—all with that signature Asbury vibe.
- Play your way through history at the Silverball Museum, home to a massive collection of pinball and video games from the 1930s to today.
- Celebrate local culture at annual events like the Asbury Park Oysterfest and the wild, world-famous New Jersey Zombie Walk.
4. Beacon
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Location:
Beacon, NYHighlights:
If you’re craving a quick artsy escape from the city, you’ll love Beacon. Just a breezy train ride from Manhattan, this former industrial town has blossomed into one of the Hudson Valley’s most vibrant creative hubs.Recommended For:
Urban explorers, art lovers, weekend trippers, and anyone looking to blend small-town charm with world-class contemporary art.What I Love: ♥
The one-mile stretch of indie boutiques and galleries, monthly Second Saturday art walks, and jaw-dropping views from Mount Beacon.- Stroll down Main Street, a mile-long corridor brimming with eclectic shops, inviting cafes, contemporary galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants.
- Explore the Dia:Beacon, a massive 30-acre museum set in a converted Nabisco factory, featuring cutting-edge installations and midcentury works.
- Experience the buzz of Beacon Arts Second Saturday, a monthly celebration packed with gallery openings, live music, and pop-up street vendors.
- Hike Mount Beacon for panoramic Hudson Valley views, or take a river adventure to Bannerman Island, part of the Hudson Highlands State Park Preserve.
- Relax by the scenic Hudson River, just minutes from the town center—perfect for picnics, kayaking, or sunset watching.
Relaxing Weekend Getaways from NYC Without a Car:
5. City Island
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Location:
City Island, Bronx, NYHighlights:
Need a breather from the city buzz? Head to City Island—this Bronx gem feels like a New England fishing village, just minutes from Manhattan. Think salty air, seafood shacks, and strolls through history.Recommended For:
History buffs, seafood lovers, antique hunters, and New Yorkers craving a breezy, nostalgic day trip.What I Love: ♥
The island’s old-school charm, century-old diners, quirky shops, and the City Island Nautical Museum’s weekend walking tours.- Discover a peaceful maritime neighborhood on the edge of Long Island Sound, nestled between Eastchester and Pelham Bays.
- Explore historic sites like the 1860s-era Schofield Street House on self-guided or museum-led walking excursions.
- Visit the City Island Nautical Museum to dive into local maritime history and enjoy weekend guided tours.
- Shop unique finds at Early Ruth antiques and quirky collectibles at 239 Play, a local favorite.
- Dine at the century-old City Island Diner, slurp up seafood at Johnny’s Reef (cash only!), or sip and sway at Starving Artist Cafe with live jazz performances.
6. Cold Spring
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Location:
Cold Spring, NYHighlights:
Planning a low-key escape from NYC? Cold Spring is your go-to spot. Just an hour away by train, this Hudson Highlands gem offers a dreamy mix of scenic hikes, antique shopping, and cozy dining.Recommended For:
Weekend warriors, antique lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone craving a mix of outdoor adventure and small-town charm.What I Love: ♥
The historic Main Street vibe, unique local shops like Cold Spring Apothecary, and epic hiking nearby at Breakneck Ridge.- Wander Cold Spring’s 19th-century downtown district, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and filled with architectural charm.
- Shop locally at standout spots like Old Souls (for outdoor gear), Poor George (for vintage treasures), and Cold Spring Apothecary (for all-natural products).
- Hike Breakneck Ridge, one of the Hudson Valley’s most rewarding trails, with jaw-dropping views from the summit.
- Explore Cold Spring’s heritage at historic sites like the West Point Foundry Preserve.
- Relax with a delicious post-adventure meal at one of the village’s many excellent eateries—perfect for fueling up or winding down.
7. Coney Island
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Location:
Coney Island, Brooklyn, NYHighlights:
If you’re in the mood for vintage thrills and beachy fun, Coney Island delivers. With historic rides, ocean breezes, and quirky charm, it’s the perfect mix of old-school Americana and modern-day excitement.Recommended For:
Families, thrill-seekers, nostalgia lovers, beachgoers, and anyone chasing that classic New York summer experience.What I Love: ♥
The iconic Cyclone roller coaster, seaside views from Deno’s Wonder Wheel, and the electric energy of the Mermaid Parade in summer.- Play at Luna Park, a modern revival of the early 1900s amusement legacy that includes rides, games, and fun for all ages.
- Ride the Coney Island Cyclone (est. 1927), Thunderbolt (a 2014 reboot), and the swinging Deno’s Wonder Wheel for a taste of boardwalk history.
- Walk the 2.5-mile stretch of boardwalk lined with arcade games, snack stands, and beachside attractions.
- Relax on the expansive public beach just steps from the rides—perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or a sandy stroll.
- Join the Coney Island Mermaid Parade each summer, a fantastical, costume-filled celebration of creativity and seaside spirit.
8. Cornwall
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Location:
Cornwall, NYHighlights:
If you're looking for an easy escape into art, nature, and small-town charm, Cornwall is a gem. Just an hour from NYC, it offers everything from rolling hills and river views to cider doughnuts and world-class sculpture.Recommended For:
Families, art lovers, nature seekers, and weekend explorers looking to unwind in a scenic Hudson Valley village.What I Love: ♥
The iconic Storm King Art Center, breathtaking views from Storm King Mountain, and the cozy, nostalgic vibe of Jones Farm’s bakery and shops.- Visit the world-renowned Storm King Art Center, a 500-acre outdoor museum showcasing monumental sculptures in a stunning natural setting.
- Hike Storm King State Park for sweeping views of the Hudson River, Bannerman Island, and Newburgh Bay from the summit.
- Play and learn at the Hudson Highlands Nature Museum’s Outdoor Discovery Center, featuring kid-friendly trails and a nature-themed play area.
- Shop & dine along Cornwall’s Main Street, where you’ll find charming boutiques, local restaurants, and a bustling farmer’s market on Wednesday mornings.
- Indulge at the Shops at Jones Farm, a rustic farmstead offering handcrafted gifts, homemade pies, and fresh apple cider doughnuts straight from the bakery.
9. Fire Island
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Location:
Fire Island, NYHighlights:
Looking for a getaway that blends sun, sand, and open-hearted community? Fire Island is the ultimate seaside escape—welcoming, walkable, and full of history, beauty, and good vibes.Recommended For:
LGBTQ+ travelers, beach lovers, nightlife seekers, and anyone looking for a car-free coastal retreat just off Long Island.What I Love: ♥
The inclusive spirit of Cherry Grove, oceanfront dining at The Sandcastle, and the iconic Fire Island Lighthouse at Robert Moses State Park.- Relax on Fire Island’s pristine beaches, known for their natural beauty, vibrant communities, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
- Visit Cherry Grove, one of the first openly LGBTQ+ communities in America, offering a warm, festive atmosphere and historic charm.
- Explore Ocean Beach, a lively village with a scenic marina, popular swimming beach, and plenty of shops and eateries.
- Dine & unwind at The Sandcastle at the Ocean, or grab cocktails at beloved gay-friendly bars like Cherry’s and The Ice Palace.
- Discover Robert Moses State Park on the island’s western tip, featuring picnic spots, a pitch-and-putt course, and the stately 19th-century Fire Island Lighthouse.
10. Greenwood Gardens
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Location:
Millburn, NJHighlights:
Looking for a serene escape into artful nature? Greenwood Gardens is a hidden gem just outside the city—where time slows down, history blooms, and sculpted beauty surrounds you.Recommended For:
Garden lovers, architecture enthusiasts, cultural event seekers, and anyone craving quiet beauty in a historic setting.What I Love: ♥
The Italianate landscaping, whimsical sculptures, historic tea house, and vine-covered gates that transport you to a more graceful era.- Wander through 28 acres of formal gardens, once part of a grand estate and now thoughtfully preserved as a public treasure.
- Admire artful details like the statue of a boy with two geese by Emilio Angela and ornate gates by Samuel Yellin, both framed by lush greenery.
- Discover historic structures including the estate home, summer house, charming tea house from the 1920s, and restored worker cottages.
- Join as a garden member to enjoy exclusive access to educational tours, seasonal concerts, and special events in this tranquil haven.
- Support a nonprofit gem stewarded by the Garden Conservancy and the Blanchard family’s legacy of nature and culture.
Address:
274 Old Short Hills Rd, Short Hills, NJ 07078Phone: 973-258-4026
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