The Big Apple offers plenty of unique experiences year-round, but the best part is meeting new people in the city to share them with.
As summer rolls around, we’re exploring five incredible destinations for day trips from NYC this season with your crew. From tranquil beaches to thrilling rides, there’s something for everyone.
Pack your bags, call your friends, and get ready to plan some unforgettable summer day trips!
1. Fire Island
Fire Island is a great place to escape the hustle of the city and enjoy a traffic and crowd-free oasis. This barrier island lies off the southern coast of Long Island and is known for its beaches, lighthouses, and serene nature trails.
Grab a group of friends and rent a few bikes near one of the trails; the trails near the 1858 Fire Island Lighthouse or the town of Kismet are good places to start.
Another great place to explore on the island on a bike or by foot is the Sunken Forest. Dunes border this ancient primeval maritime forest, and you’ll have plenty of shade and a chance to see a variety of local wildlife.
If your friends prefer something more low-key, sit back on one of the beaches, enjoy a seaside lunch at a bar and grill, and head back home relaxed and rejuvenated.
How to get there
You and your friends can get to Fire Island via ferry, as it is a car-free zone. Drive (approximately 1.5 hours) or take the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to Bay Shore, Sayville, or Patchogue.
From these spots, you will need to pay in cash to take a ferry to Fire Island. This page has more details on where each ferry drops you off.
2. Hudson Valley wine country
For the wine connoisseurs in the group, why not plan an escape to a picturesque winery or vineyard in the Hudson Valley? Sip on award-winning wines, enjoy the beautiful rolling hills that will surround you, and consider taking a vineyard tour to learn more about the winemaking process.
Some popular wineries in the area include:
· Brotherhood Winery in Washingtonville, NY: As America’s oldest continuously operating winery from 1839, Brotherhood offers great tours of its wine cellars paired with wine tastings.
· Millbrook Vineyards & Winery in Millbrook, NY: Known for its sustainable practices and hand-crafted wines, sip on Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and more on the outdoor terrace overlooking the vineyards.
· Whitecliff Vineyard & Winery in Gardiner, NY: This boutique has produced wine for over four decades, specializing in cool-climate varieties while overlooking Shawangunk Ridge.
· Warwick Valley Winery & Distillery in Warwick, NY: This location is in the Warwick Valley as opposed to the Hudson, but it’s worth mentioning for its cider production, winemaking, and distilling all under one roof. Sample spirits, ciders, and wines while enjoying live music and farm-to-table cuisine.
How to get there
The quickest way to get to the Hudson Valley from NYC is by car, although you can also take the Metro-North Railroad, a company bus (Coach USA, ShortLine, or Adirondack Trailways), or a guided tour to the area.
3. Six Flags Great Adventure
Sometimes, you need the thrill of adrenaline to create unique memories with your crew. In cases like these, consider spending the day at Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey.
Six Flags offers a solid assortment of roller coasters, including the tallest rollercoaster in the world and the fastest one in North America! You could also plan to spend a hot summer day at Hurricane Harbor for the water slides and pool activities.
Alternatively, Six Flags also hosts the Safari Off Road Adventure where you can embark on a guided tour through a 250-acre wildlife preserve to see over 1,200 animals from around the world – including lions, elephants, and giraffes.
How to get there
Six Flags is an easy 65 miles from NYC by car. Several bus companies – like Academy Bus, Trans-Bridge Lines, and NJ Transit – also offer service from the city to the park.
4. Storm King State Park
Nature enthusiasts and adventurers can enjoy this true gem. Grab a pal or two and choose a hiking path on the over 1,800 acres this park encompasses. Enjoy woodlands, towering cliffs, hiking, biking, and optimal picnic spots.
Don’t forget to bring your camera and a selfie stick for the group pics – the view of the Hudson River from the park’s summit is incredible!
How to get there
Storm King State Park is best accessed by car, as it’s 55 miles north of Manhattan. You can also take a bus or train to the Beacon Station or New Windsor and taxi from there, but be sure to arrange your transportation in advance as taxis are not readily available in that area without a reservation.
5. The Hamptons
For friends who want a more luxurious getaway, consider spending a day in the Hamptons. You can save yourself the cost of overnight accommodation and instead head there early to enjoy relaxation and sophistication for the day.
The Hamptons offer pristine beaches, high-end boutiques, and great seafood at local eateries and restaurants. Driving around the Hampton neighborhoods will offer awe-inspiring peeks at the local mansions and vibrant social scene.
How to get there
Located on Long Island’s South Fork, the Hamptons is accessible by car on the Long Island Expressway or by train via the LIRR. If you opt to drive, head there early as the commute is about 2-2.5 hours without any extra traffic. The train ride is just as long but lets you take a break from traffic and haphazard New York drivers.
Final thoughts
Day trips from NYC are only as fun as the people you share them with, which is why the Cohabs community plans so many. We believe that New York has plenty to offer, so our co-living spaces are dedicated to creating a sense of both home and exploration in and around the city that never sleeps.
Consider joining our community to create lasting memories this summer and beyond. We would be thrilled to have you form a part of it!
