Summer Day Trip Ideas from NYC

Summer is in full swing, and if you’re looking for some exciting day trip ideas from NYC, we’ve got you covered. From freshwater swims to thrilling amusement park rides, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top day trip options to consider:

1. Freshwater Swim: Dive into a freshwater lake at a nearby swimming hole for a refreshing summer experience.

2. Conquer SplashDown Beach: Float down the lazy river at SplashDown Beach, a popular water park in the Hudson Valley.

3. Head for The Shore: Visit Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant, New Jersey, for a full Jersey Shore experience with beach and boardwalk amusements.

4. Visit a Nature Center: Explore the Greenburgh Nature Center in Westchester for a day of outdoor fun and wildlife encounters.

5. Climb a Lighthouse: Discover stunning lighthouses on Long Island’s East End and North Fork.

6. Float Splish Splash’s Lazy River: Keep cool at the Splish Splash water park on Long Island’s East End for a fun-filled day trip.

7. Visit an Animal Farm: Get up close and personal with animals at Brookhollow’s Barnyard in North Jersey or other petting zoos near NYC.

8. See Large-Scale Art: Spend the day at the Storm King Art Center or other outdoor art destinations for a cultural experience.

9. Play Paleontologist: Explore Field Station: Dinosaurs in Overpeck County Park for a prehistoric adventure.

10. Go North to the Nutmeg State: Discover family-friendly summer fun in Connecticut’s state parks and charming waterfront towns.

11. Spend a Day in Tarrytown: Enjoy family-friendly activities in Tarrytown, from touring Lyndhurst Castle to indulging in ice cream at Main Street Sweets.

12. Explore Another Hudson Valley Spot: Hop on the Metro-North to visit cute towns like Beacon, New York, and explore Dia Beacon.

13. Hit the Slopes at Mountain Creek: Enjoy summer activities at Mountain Creek, including a water park, bike park, zip line, and mountain coaster.

14. Enjoy Old-School Amusements at Playland Park: Visit Westchester’s Playland Park for a nostalgic day of fun and entertainment.

15. Explore the East End: Visit the Long Island Aquarium and explore Riverhead’s vineyards, beaches, and mini-train rides.

16. Experience Niagara Falls: Marvel at the stunning waterfalls and explore the Buffalo area for a memorable day trip.

17. Build STEM Skills at the Liberty Science Center: Visit the Liberty Science Center for hands-on fun and educational exhibits for all ages.

18. Build Some Fun With Legos: Head to Legoland New York for a larger-than-life theme park experience.

19. Adventure to Asbury Park: Enjoy the beach, boardwalk murals, great eats, music, and more at Asbury Park in New Jersey.

20. Forget Fruit, Pick Flowers: Visit Lavender By The Bay in Long Island or other flower farms for a colorful and fragrant experience.

21. Go for a Thrill Ride: Experience amusement park thrills at top theme parks in the area.

22. Go Country: Visit the Dutchess County Fair or the Empire State Fair for rides, games, food, and animals.

23. Go for a Hike: Explore family-friendly hiking trails in the Hudson Valley, Long Island, and Northern Jersey.

24. Step Back in Time: Attend the New York Renaissance Faire for jousting, crafts, and performances in Sterling Forest.

25. Explore a Historic Estate: Visit the Olana State Historic Site for stunning views and panoramas.

26. Test Your Fear of Heights: Conquer climbing challenges at Palisades Climb Adventure or Spins Hudson for aerial courses and zip lines.

27. Enjoy a Daycation: Explore different boroughs of NYC, including Staten Island, Governor’s Island, Little Island, and Sunset Park.

28. Hit the Farm: Pick your own fruits at New Jersey farms with agri-entertainment activities.

29. Hunt the Jersey Devil: Visit the Pine Barrens of New Jersey for hiking, local folklore, and wildlife encounters.

30. Ferry Yourself Away: Take a ferry to Fire Island for car-free fun and clean beaches.

31. Explore Long Beach: Visit Long Beach, Long Island, for a real beach experience accessible via public transportation.

32. Search for Fairies: Walk the fairy trail in South Mountain Reservation or explore Turtle Back Zoo and other attractions.

33. Head for the Hills: Visit the Pocono Mountains for a day trip filled with family-friendly activities.

34. Ride a Bike: Tackle the Empire State Trail for a scenic biking adventure.

With so many exciting day trip options near NYC, you’re sure to have a memorable summer filled with fun and adventure.