New York City has a never-ending supply of things to do and places to see. Did you know there are just as many adventures waiting within driving distance of New York City? You can travel into the country by rail, bus or car, take in a fair, visit historical sites or visit a farm, and still make it home before bedtime. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.
If you are traveling my rail, the Metro-North rail line runs regularly from Penn Station on the Adirondack rail line shared with Amtrak. The train track runs along the Eastern bank of the Hudson River, and it offers spectacular views of the Catskill Mountains and the Hudson River. In the fall, many people ride the Amtrak line into Saratoga simply to take in the beautiful foliage. If you are visiting the lower Hudson Valley, Metro-North will take you as far as Poughkeepsie at a fraction of the cost of an Amtrak fare. The lower Hudson River Valley is full of activities, and you are only an hour away from Manhattan.
Van Cortlandt Manor is located in Croton-on-Hudson, and is a short cab ride away from the Croton-on-Hudson train station. It offers an exciting history of Hudson River Valley history on a working farm. All the workers toil in their period-specific dress, using tools unique to the 1800s. The home is now a museum, and guided tours are available as you stroll through the main house, the barns, and other structures on-site.
There are many historic homes unique to the Hudson River Valley. Most are on the east side of the river, making it a cinch to access them via rail. The Vanderbilt Mansion and the Roosevelt Estate are two of the most popular homes, but there are nearly a dozen magnificent historical homes available for tours. You can take a sightseeing tour of all the homes in one day, or spend a full day at each estate, absorbing the history of the robber barons and former political heroes.
If war heroes are more your speed, consider a trip to The United States Military Academy at West Point. Also nestled on the Eastern bank of the Hudson River, its grounds are open to the public. There is a war museum, meeting rooms, chapels, and beautiful vistas overlooking the Hudson River. There are historic plaques indicating significant events and people with strong ties to West Point. The United States Military Academy regularly offers sports clinics and tours, which have become a favorite of locals.
West Point is less accessible by rail than by bus or car. If traveling by bus, you will often be limited to a single departure and return time. There are many destinations available if you are relying on bus transportation. Greyhound and Adirondack Trailways run several busses between Upstate New York and New York City every day. Charter companies also offer single day travel to specific destinations and events.
Apple picking and pumpkin farms are popular fall pastimes in the fertile farm regions of New York. Given that New York is the country’s number 2 producer of apples, there are many “U pick U pay” farms within two hours of New York City. Ladders are placed beneath the trees, and you purchase your bags before heading into the orchard. You can spend an entire day selecting the freshest apples to pick and bring back home with you. While many pumpkin farms don’t enable you to go out into the field and pick your own, there are hay rides, haunted houses, corn mazes, and several gift items, lending to a fair atmosphere. Many bus lines offer direct service on a seasonal basis to apple orchards and pumpkin farms.
One of the most popular shopping destinations in the entire country is Woodbury Commons – and it is only an hour away from Manhattan. Several bus companies offer service to Woodbury Commons, since many tourists arrive from Asia and Europe specifically to shop at the outlet stores. Located just off Exit 17 of the New York State Thruway, it is just a short trek upstate to realize fantastic bargains unheard of on Fifth Avenue.
In the winter, there is plenty of skiing available within a few hours of New York City. Hunter Mountain and Ski Windham are in Hunter, New York, just past Exit 20 on the New York State Thruway. Exit 20 is the Saugerties Exit, home of the 1994 Woodstock Festival – and Jimmy Fallon of Saturday Night Live fame. Saugerties is a haven for antique hunters and has a refurbished lighthouse available for tours.
The arts community of Woodstock, New York is also accessible from the Saugerties Exit. Metaphysical stores, candle shops, tie-dye and art galleries make a leisurely stroll through Woodstock enjoyable. “The Green” is the central part of Woodstock, and you are just as likely to rub shoulders with locals and transients as silver screen stars. Woodstock residents include many celebrities because of its proximity to New York City and its world-famous recording studios.
In the summer, Hunter Mountain is transformed from a ski resort to a festival center. Renaissance, crafts, and German fairs are among a few of the themes featured. If you are interested in a three to four hour trip, you can head up to Lake George for the world-famous Elvis Festival. In the same general vicinity is the Saratoga Raceway. During August, find your biggest hat and head to the track for some affordable horse racing fun.
If you enjoy outdoor spaces, Bear Mountain and Rockland State Park are two parks most accessible by car from New York City. Rockland State Park boasts two Olympic-sized swimming pools, a breathtaking lake, and tons of open space.
In New Jersey, you can motor on over to Atlantic City, Six Flags Great Adventure, and even the New Jersey Seashore. In West Orange, Lewellyn Park was the first public park in the United States. There are several estates within the Park, including the former home of Thomas Edison. Many are open twice per year to the general public.
If you head further west, Philadelphia is about 3 hours away. You can take NJ Transit trains to South Jersey, and then hop on a SEPTA train. The Art Museum, Rittenhouse Square, and Fairmount Park are all popular destinations in Philadelphia. History buffs are especially drawn to Philadelphia where you can visit the homes of many people instrumental in securing America’s independence.
You can find an endless supply of things to do in close proximity to New York City. Depending on your mode of transit and the time of year, you can walk in the shoes of great American Generals at West Point or shop up a storm at Woodbury Commons. There are many adventures waiting for you!
