Top 5 road trips from NYC: The sweetest road trip from NYC is found in Pennsylvania’s Chocolatetown, which is a dream weekend getaway for anyone with a sweet tooth. But if you’re looking for something more historical, check out Saratoga Springs, where Native Americans have been enjoying natural mineral water since the 1600s.
It’s a great destination for all seasons, although summers can be pretty hot. Autumn and spring are also beautiful times to visit, thanks to the fall foliage and gorgeous flowers.
1. The Outer Banks
The beaches of the East Coast offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to spend a day playing frisbee on the soft white sand or dive into a book under a canopy of palm trees, The area is also dotted with cities that have enough history to please historians, foodies, and beach lovers alike. Then there’s the seafood—from Maine lobsters to Florida stone crabs—to make every trip a feast for the senses.
A road trip from NYC to the Outer Banks will take you through upstate New York. Saratoga Springs is a popular resort town that’s home to intriguing and potentially health-boosting mineral springs. From there, you can continue north to Lake Placid, a stunning Adirondacks destination. That offers a variety of recreational activities, from alpine skiing to bobsled riding.
Another great upstate road trip from NYC is the one that takes you to Ithaca, one of New York’s most beautiful college towns. The city is home to a range of cultural institutions, including the Museum of the Earth and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, plus it’s at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, a popular Finger Lakes destination.
Probably the most iconic of all the road trips from NYC is the one that leads you to the incredible Niagara Falls. Where a series of cascades thunder down a gorge in a spectacular show of power and water. But the falls aren’t the only attraction in this spectacular destination, which is also home to many wineries that are worth visiting for their tasting rooms and sweeping views. Plus, there’s a variety of restaurants to satisfy any craving you might have.
2. Lake Placid
A trip to the Adirondacks is one of the best road trips from NYC because it’s the perfect getaway for all kinds of people. You can relax on a gorgeous beach, get your thrills at a top-rated waterpark, or even hit the slopes in Vermont’s ski country.
If you’re looking for something a little more upscale on your road trip from NYC, Newport is an amazing option. This historic city is known for its gorgeous Victorian mansions and offers tonnes of unique experiences. Like wine tasting paired with vinyl listening sessions and tea leaf readings with professional psychics.
Another one of the best road trips from NYC is Shenandoah National Park. Which is the ideal place to immerse yourself in nature? The scenic views are breathtaking, and you can choose whether to kick back and relax or hike a few of the hundreds of miles of trails. You can also chase glistening waterfalls or gaze into a field of wildflowers.
If you want to enjoy the best of what Shenandoah has to offer, make sure to check out these top attractions:
Cheesecake Machismo: This quirky bakery on Hamilton Street is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth during your road trip from NYC! Pick up a slice or a whole cheesecake for the road and try the cherry amaretto, Bavarian creme, or green tea with chocolate options.
Adelphi Hotel: This luxurious hotel is the perfect place to stay during your road trip from NYC! This beautiful property will make you feel like royalty, and it’s just a short walk to the waterfront. You can also dine at Sinatra’s, which is a family-owned restaurant that serves up delicious Italian Old Country flavours with a modern twist.
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3. The Catskills
If the grit of NYC is starting to wear on you, a short road trip to the charming AF seaside town of Narragansett may be just the ticket. The quaint AF getaway is home to a handful of beaches and a gorgeous lighthouse. An endless supply of locally caught seafood that’s grilled or fried up just the way you like it.
After a day of sunbathing, head to the local wineries for a few glasses of vino. The wine scene here is booming thanks to a new breed of young winemakers, so be sure to try out a few spots while you’re there. And if you’re not a fan of wine, don’t worry; the area has also become a major craft beer mecca. You’ll find breweries everywhere!
This leafy and lovely region is a true natural gem, with a wealth of stunning hiking trails to explore. And don’t forget to stop by the quaint little village of Nyack, which is characterised by cute old houses, cool boutiques, and art galleries. And if you’re a total foodie, don’t miss out on trying the legendary gelato from Shy Guy Gelato.
The best time to visit the Catskills is in the spring or fall but be prepared for the crowds. And be sure to check out the nearby Water Gap, which is a series of picturesque byways and scenic roads that’s truly worth the drive.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once the playground of America’s aristocracy. Is speckled with their whooping great mansions and luscious gardens. It’s the perfect spot for anyone who loves history, nature, and a few rounds of golf or tennis on the side.
4. Niagara Falls
The 410-mile journey from New York City to Niagara Falls takes six full days to complete. It is one of the most rewarding road trips from NYC for travellers. It is best taken during the week and outside of major holidays to avoid traffic issues. If you do decide to drive on the weekend, make sure to keep someone at home in the loop about your itinerary and leave plenty of time for stops.
Newport, a charming village with the Vanderbilt Hotel as its centrepiece, ought to be the first stop on the route. This luxury property, located less than a four-hour drive from Manhattan, is housed in an authentic mansion. that was a property of the Vanderbilt family and offers distinctive experiences like wine tastings combined with vinyl listening sessions. Tea leaf readings with a professional psychic. Next up, head to Harriman State Park in the heart of the Adirondack Mountains for more outdoor activities like hiking trails and fishing. Then it is on to quaint mountain towns, including Lake Placid and the ice skating rink at Mt. Airy Casino Resort.
Buffalo is the final stop before you get to the Falls. This upstate city is a cultural hub, offering a variety of attractions, such as the dazzling Art Deco Buffalo City Hall. It’s the observation deck, or Washington Irving’s Sunnyside House and Lyndhurst Mansion. You can also visit the Buffalo Museum of Science and Technology or take in a big-name concert at the New Jersey Performing Arts Centre.
A trip to the enchanting city of Montreal is another must-do on this road trip from New York City. This beautiful city is just a short, four-hour car ride from the border. It boasts numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Old Port, Clock Tower, and Notre Dame Basilica. The architecture here is distinctly European, with the influence of both French and British colonisation.
5. New York City to Florida
The East Coast is full of fascinating cities and natural wonders that can keep the whole family entertained. From the bustling cultural hubs of Philadelphia and Baltimore to pristine beaches. Entertainment options in Florida, this road trip from New York City is sure to please.
One of the shortest and most accessible trips from NYC, Philadelphia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with plenty of things to do for all ages. From touring the famous gangster-era Eastern State Penitentiary to seeing the city’s stunning art scene, this booming metropolis has something for everyone.
For a more laidback stop on this road trip, Saratoga Springs offers a unique combination of culture. History with its famous horse racing, beautiful parks, and 19th-century, wood-carved carousel. Visitors will also find an impressive array of culinary and cocktail offerings, as well as charming boutique hotels.
On your way down to Florida, don’t miss a stop at the historic town of Fernandina Beach and Amelia Islan. You can explore a beautiful stretch of coastline or tour the vineyards. That makes this area one of America’s most famous wine-growing regions. Of course, no trip to Florida is complete without visiting a few of the state’s world-famous theme parks and attractions. Including Disney Springs, Universal CityWalk, and the awe-inspiring Kennedy Space Centre.
This itinerary is designed for a quick road trip from NYC to Miami. You can easily extend your stops or even add in a few days of sightseeing in each city if you want. If you’re planning to take this route. It’s a good idea to invest in travel insurance with Safety Wing. Which offers coverage for things like towing, fuel delivery, and roadside reimbursement. More at a very affordable monthly rate.
