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5 Fun Easy Day Trips From NYC for a Quick Getaway

While taking a full-fledged vacation right now may be out of the question, heading out on a quick get-away is a great way to break away from the stresses of everyday life. But picking a great getaway can be difficult when you have so many destinations to choose from! And sometimes, it isn’t even about the destination but the journey along the way! These five fun easy day trips from NYC are great for a quick getaway.

The Best Day Trips From NYC

Route 28

Known as New York’s Adventure Route, the winding road that travels from the Catskills up to the Adirondacks provides one of the best scenic drives in the state of New York. As you drive, you’ll pass through the Ashokan reserve, as well as a handful of picturesque towns, like Woodstock, Cooperstown, and Andes.

Bear Mountain State Park

For a beautiful escape from the city, consider heading out on Palisades Parkway to Bear Mountain State Park. On the drive, you’ll see plenty of green trees, budding wildflowers, and lush shrubbery. And since the park itself is located in the mountains rising out of the Hudson River, your destination is sure to be just as beautiful as the drive.

Once you reach the park, take some time to enjoy the natural surroundings by heading out on a hike or enjoying a meal in the shaded picnic area.

The Village of Sleepy Hollow

If you’re heading out on a drive from New York during the fall, why not take a trip to Sleep Hollow? Venture out of the city on Route 9 to reach the village of Sleepy Hollow, where you can find tons of spooky fun, including street fairs, haunted hayrides, and a look at the headless horseman himself.

But the destination isn’t the only appealing aspect of this quick trip. You can also watch the landscape transform before your eyes, from a cityscape to a quaint cottage, with plenty of beautiful foliage and wildflowers in between.

1,000 Islands

Did you now the St. Lawrence River has more than 1,800 islands within it? You can check out the amazing views of these islands on Route 12.

To get views of several islands along the river, start your trip at Tibbet’s Point Lighthouse in Cape Vincent along Route 6, where Lake Ontario meets the St. Lawrence River. Then, head out along Seaway Trail. Or hop on a boat to tour the islands up close from the water.

Shawangunk Mountains Scenic Byway

Get amazing views of the mountains just outside New York City along the 88-mile Shawangunk Scenic Byway. The highway features classic mountain roads, shocking hairpin turns, and amazing views of the Catskills and Gunks. Along the way, you never know what you’ll find – from farmer’s markets to historic sites dating back to early Dutch settlements.

Enjoy! If you visit any of these locations let me know in the comments~

If you loved these cool day trips from NYC check out The Best Hikes Near NYC: How To Get There Easily By Public Transportation

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