Long Trips From Nyc: Best Destinations

New York is a massive city that's impossible to see in a single visit. There are countless attractions, restaurants, museums, plays, and quirky things to do. If you're looking to travel for 10 days from NYC, there are plenty of options. You could visit Philadelphia, which is just a 2-hour train ride away, and explore its amazing restaurants, bars, and museums. Or, you could head to Washington, D.C., which is around 3 hours away by train, and explore the nation's capital, including historical monuments and world-class museums.

If you're looking for a more relaxed trip, you could visit Bear Mountain, which is just a 1-hour drive from NYC. There, you can enjoy hiking and biking trails, swimming, and a zoo. For a beach vacation, Fire Island is a great option, with lifeguard-supervised swimming and a vibrant LGBTQ community.

For a mix of town and country, you could visit New Paltz, which is around 3 hours away by car or train. There, you can explore the historic Huguenot Street, with its 300-year-old stone houses, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Mohonk Preserve.

If you're looking for a longer trip, you could even fly to Edinburgh, Scotland, which has recently become more accessible from NYC thanks to new summertime flights from JetBlue.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Day 1:

Start your day with a visit to the Liberty Bell Center to see the iconic Liberty Bell and snap a photo in front of it. Then, head to the Philadelphia Museum of Art and run up the famous "Rocky Steps" just like Rocky Balboa. Don't forget to pose with the Rocky statue at the bottom of the stairs!

Day 2:

Explore the historic Independence Hall, where the nation was founded and the Declaration of Independence was signed. After that, visit the Reading Terminal Market, one of America's oldest farmers' markets, and enjoy a delicious roast pork sandwich or try other local specialties.

Day 3:

Take a day trip to Amish Country to experience the unique culture and rural farmlands outside of Philadelphia. You can book a tour or explore on your own. In the evening, return to Philadelphia and indulge in the city's renowned dining scene. Try Royal Sushi & Izakaya, Andra Hem, or Doro Bet for a special culinary experience.

Day 4:

Visit the famous LOVE sculpture in John F. Kennedy Plaza, also known as LOVE Park. Then, explore the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, home to several cultural institutions, including the Barnes Foundation, The Franklin Institute, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Day 5:

Spend the day at Longwood Gardens, a world-renowned horticultural display garden with over 1,000 acres of stunning outdoor and indoor gardens, dancing fountains, and meandering meadows and woodlands. In the evening, return to Philadelphia and catch a show at the Bucks County Playhouse or enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife.

Day 6:

Take a day trip to Valley Forge National Historical Park, which commemorates the Continental Army's difficult winter encampment during the Revolutionary War. You can explore the historic buildings, monuments, and scenic trails at your own pace.

Day 7:

Discover the Brandywine Museum of Art, housed in a renovated 1864 gristmill surrounded by wildflower gardens. Cross the road to visit the N.C. Wyeth House & Studio, a National Historic Landmark that was once the family home and workspace of artist Andrew Wyeth.

Day 8:

Explore Philadelphia's hip waterfront, including attractions like Cherry Street Pier, Race Street Pier, and Spruce Street Harbor Park. Enjoy the beautiful views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge and the vibrant atmosphere along the Delaware River.

Day 9:

Take a break from the city and visit Ridley Creek State Park, a 2,600-acre oasis with wooded trails, rolling hills, and a tranquil creek. You can also explore the 18th-century milling village of Sycamore Mills and the Colonial Pennsylvania Plantation within the park.

Day 10:

On your last day, indulge in some shopping at King of Prussia, a massive mall with over 450 stores and a wide range of shopping and dining options. Alternatively, you can explore other shopping destinations like Peddler's Village or Suburban Square. End your trip with a delicious Philly cheesesteak to satisfy your cravings before heading back to New York.

Kingston, New York

Day 1

Start your day with a visit to the Senate House State Historic Site. Take a guided tour to learn about the life of an 18th-century family and explore their beautiful Dutch home, complete with period tools, furniture, and art. The Senate House offers a glimpse into the important role Kingston played in the foundation of the New York State government.

Day 2

Explore Uptown Kingston, including the historic Stockade District. Visit Rough Draft, a unique bar and bookstore located in this picturesque area. Enjoy a cup of Counter Culture coffee and a pastry, or come later in the day for local beers like the Domicile sour IPA.

Day 3

Wander through the charming chaos of Zaborski Emporium, an antique warehouse filled with treasures. Whether you're looking for vintage décor, unique gifts, or simply a fun browsing experience, Zaborski Emporium is sure to delight.

Day 4

Indulge in a delicious lunch at Ship to Shore, a restaurant dedicated to locally sourced food. Try their famous steak frites or keep it simple with steamed clams, paired with roasted garlic, white wine, and mixed greens. Enjoy your meal with a beautiful view of the marina along Rondout Creek.

Day 5

Take a walking tour of Kingston's vibrant street art scene. Thanks to the annual O+ Fest, where artists trade their talents for healthcare services, Kingston boasts an array of permanent public murals and street art installations.

Day 6

Spend the afternoon at the Ulster Performing Arts Center, housed in a restored 1926 theater. The center regularly hosts a variety of events, from performing arts to cultural programs.

Day 7

Discover the Trolley Museum of New York and take a 1.5-mile ride along the Rondout Creek waterfront to Kingston Point Park. It's a unique way to learn about the history of trolleys and enjoy the scenic views.

Day 8

Explore the First Reformed Protestant Dutch Church of Kingston, organized in 1659. This gorgeous church has a rich history and is a testament to the city's religious heritage.

Day 9

Stroll through Midtown Kingston, bisected by Broadway, the city's main drag. Discover a mix of trendy stores, unique hangouts, and delicious restaurants like Ship to Shore and Lola.

Day 10

Before you leave, don't miss Rondout, the southern section of the city near the creek and river. Rondout has its own distinct character and charm, offering a peaceful conclusion to your 10-day exploration of Kingston, New York.

Washington, D.C

Day 1: International Spy Museum and Mount Vernon

Start your day at the International Spy Museum, where you can explore the world of espionage and view over 6,000 spy exhibits. After spending 1-2 hours at the museum, head to Mount Vernon, former residence of George Washington. This two-and-a-half-story British Georgian building offers a glimpse into the life of America's first President.

Day 2: Christian Heurich House Museum and Dumbarton Oaks

On day 2, visit the Christian Heurich House Museum, former residence of the famous American winemaker, Christian Heurich. The building is Romanesque in style and the guided tour will take you through the history of the Heurich family and the city of Washington. Next, make your way to Dumbarton Oaks, a manor built by an Argentine ambassador in 1920. This elegant estate is renowned for its Roman and Byzantine art collection and well-manicured gardens.

Day 3: The White House and Smithsonian National Zoological Park

On your third day, visit the iconic White House, home and office of the US President. After admiring the neoclassical architecture, stroll over to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park, one of the oldest zoos in the country. Here, you can see a diverse range of animals and learn about their conservation efforts.

Day 4: Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial

Spend your fourth day at the Washington Monument, a 555-foot-high obelisk located in the centre of the National Mall. Take in the impressive views from the top and explore the exhibits inside. In the afternoon, head to the Lincoln Memorial, a pure white ancient Greek temple-style building constructed in memory of Abraham Lincoln. This memorial is also renowned as the site of Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech.

Day 5: National Air and Space Museum and United States Capitol

On day 5, visit the National Air and Space Museum, where you can learn about the history of spaceflight and aviation. The museum houses a vast collection of landmark aircraft and space probes. In the afternoon, explore the United States Capitol, home to the US Congress and a symbol of American democracy.

Day 6: Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and National Gallery of Art

On your sixth day, delve into natural history at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This museum boasts an extensive collection of over 120 million exhibits, ranging from dinosaur fossils to early human artefacts. After immersing yourself in natural history, wander over to the National Gallery of Art, where you can admire a diverse array of artwork from the Middle Ages to the present.

The Hamptons, Long Island

The Hamptons, a cluster of wealthy enclaves on Long Island's South Fork, is a celebrity summer playground, with splashy restaurants and nightclubs galore. But lovely beaches, fishing, and kayaking also attract off-the-A-list visitors. Old money oozes throughout Southampton, while new wealth reigns in East Hampton. Montauk is a hit with fishermen and surfers.

The Hamptons are Long Island's most popular summer destinations and have long been the home away from home for Manhattanites and A-list celebrities. This world-famous region is made up of many charming coastal communities that serve as a haven for fashionistas, culture seekers, art enthusiasts, and beach lovers alike.

Stroll the boutique-lined Main Streets of East Hampton or dine at chic restaurants for fresh catch and farm-to-table fare. Relax at Coopers Beach, one of the top 10-rated beaches in the nation.

Get a taste of Long Island's booming craft beverage scene with a brew at the Montauk Brewing Company, or sip handcrafted wine at Wölffer Estate Vineyard and Duck Walk Vineyard.

Head to Montauk, known as "The End," to visit the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, surf the waves at Ditch Plains, or relax in style on an oceanfront cabana at the famed Gurney's Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa.

The Long Island Railroad travels the Hamptons in an hour. The Sag Harbor Whaling Museum and Montauk Lighthouse are popular stops.

The Hamptons are connected to New York City and the rest of Long Island by a series of roadways, rail services, and bus services. Ferries also provide connections to Shelter Island, New York, and Connecticut.

Niagara Falls

If you're looking for a natural wonder to escape to from the hustle and bustle of New York City, then Niagara Falls is the place to go. Located on the border between the United States and Canada, Niagara Falls is made up of three stunning waterfalls. This natural wonder is reachable from New York City in a day trip, although longer trips are also available.

Day Trips to Niagara Falls

Day trips to Niagara Falls from New York City are available from several tour companies. The journey takes around 10 hours, with the bus leaving New York in the evening to arrive at the falls early in the morning, or leaving in the morning to arrive in the afternoon/evening. The bus ride is a great opportunity to see the landscapes of upstate New York, and you can even sleep on the way there!

The Maid of the Mist boat ride is a highlight of any trip to Niagara Falls. This boat takes you close to the base of the falls, and ponchos and flip-flops are provided so you don't get too wet! The Maid of the Mist operates from May to November, so if you want to experience this you should plan your trip within those months.

Other highlights of the falls include Goat Island, Luna Island, and the Cave of the Winds. You can also see the falls from the Canadian side, but you will need your passport and a visa if you are not from the US.

Multi-Day Trips to Niagara Falls

If you have more time, you can take a two- or three-day trip to Niagara Falls, which will allow you to see the falls at different times of the day and hike through the surrounding area. Two-day trips also give you the opportunity to see the falls illuminated at night, and three-day trips allow you to explore the area in depth and visit other natural parks in the region, such as Watkins Glen State Park and the 1000 Islands Park.

Practical Information

When visiting the falls, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and waterproof footwear, as you will likely get wet on the Maid of the Mist boat ride. You will also want to bring a rain jacket and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Food and Drink

The food in the area around Niagara Falls is typical American and Canadian fare, with some reviewers recommending that you bring your own food. However, there are several restaurants in the area serving a range of cuisines, including American, Portuguese, and Canadian.

Other Tips

• The Canadian side of the falls is considered more well-kept and attractive than the American side, so be sure to spend some time there if you can.
• If you have the budget, a helicopter ride over the falls is a great way to see them from a different perspective.
• If you are travelling with children, be aware that the bus journey is long, so you may want to consider a different option if your children are prone to travel sickness or are unlikely to sleep on the bus.

Frequently asked questions