Day Trips and Tours from New York City

When you’ve had your fill of the big city sights, it’s time to take a few day trips from New York City and explore a little further afield. The Big Apple makes a great base for exploring some of the hottest destinations in this neck of the woods, so make the most of it!

Popular day tours to New York City swing by places like Washington DC, Niagara Falls, and The Hamptons, taking the hassle out of organizing a visit yourself.

Washington DC

If you’ve ever wanted to visit the White House or pose for selfies at Capitol Hill, then Washington DC day tours from New York are yours for the taking. The journey south lasts four hours, with a breakfast stop en route. Once in the city, you’ll enjoy a jam-packed tour, visiting sites like the Lincoln Memorial, the Mall, and Arlington National Cemetery.

You’ll also be able to pay your respects at the gravesite of John F. Kennedy, before a drive-by of the Washington Monument. Some tours also include a visit to the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History or the Air and Space Museum.

Niagara Falls

One of the most coveted day trips from New York is to the jaw-dropping Niagara Falls, over on the US-Canada border. You can visit lookout points, explore the Cave of the winds, and take a boat ride on the famous Maid of the Mist for a closer look.

It’s a long day out, but totally worth it when you stand in front of the mighty cascades and feel the spray on your face. Multi-day trips from New York to Niagara Falls are also available, giving you a bit of extra time for travel and sightseeing.

Philadelphia

At just a two-hour drive south from New York, Philadelphia is a little closer than some of the other day trip destinations. This means you’ll have more time on the ground to explore the sights!

Follow in the footsteps of the founding fathers Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson in the historic district and see the symbolic Liberty Bell. You can also visit filming locations of "Rocky" such as Independence Hall and the Rocky Steps made famous by Sylvester Stallone while shooting the eponymous movie.

On a Philadelphia day excursion from New York, you’ll have your fill of historic landmarks and be back in New York in time for dinner.

Amish Country

For something unique head to Amish Country on a day trip from New York and enjoy a different pace of life. After a three-hour drive east to Lancaster County, it’s time for a ride in a traditional Amish buggy for a glimpse into the simple lifestyles of the people who call this region home.

You can browse the local markets where delicious jams and artisan leather goods are headline wares or stroll around the tranquil streets just soaking up the vibe. Farm tours and museum visits complete the experience, making this one of the most wholesome New York day trips on offer.

The Hamptons

You’ll find The Hamptons at the eastern end of Long Island, which makes this swanky seaside destination the perfect day trip from New York. Famed for its long sandy beaches and charming coastal towns, The Hamptons are the haunt of the rich and famous.

The adventure begins with a scenic two-hour drive from New York, with stops in pretty villages for sightseeing along the way. Wine tasting at vineyards and of course a walk on the beach are also on the cards before it’s time to return to New York in the evening.