Best Day Trips from NYC

Aren't there times when you just want to get away from it all? Even if you're just visiting New York City, the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life can seem exhausting, and there are plenty of other places in New York to explore. If you've had it with NYC and are looking to take a day trip to another area of the Empire State, check out some of these recommendations.

Monmouth Park Racetrack

If you think you need a break from New York altogether, take a day trip to the Jersey Shore and visit the Monmouth Park Racetrack, which is located in Oceanport, NJ. Races start just before 1pm every day, and admission is only $2 (more if you want reserved seating), and you don't have to bet to have a great time. Look at the horses on the backside, peruse the gift shop, dine in the large covered picnic area, or just watch the races as they unfold.

Bear Mountain State Park

If you want to get back to nature on your day trip from NYC, you should definitely hit Bear Mountain State Park for a day. This beautiful park is located in Bear Mountain, New York, and has enough activities to fill a week of your time, but a few hours will melt your tension and remind you that there is more to New York than the Big Apple. Sun yourself by the enormous spring-fed pool, rent paddle boats for $3.50 per hour, picnic by the water's edge, or choose one of the dozens of trails that wind around Bear Mountain.

Duck Walk Vineyards

If you love a wine tasting party, you'll absolutely adore a day trip to Duck Walk Vineyards. Escape the chaos of NYC for a more relaxed, peaceful atmosphere as you learn about the making of great wine and taste a little for yourself. The vineyards were founded in 1994, and have since grown into more than 130 acres of beautiful acreage, surrounded by a buffer of tall deciduous trees. They are open year-round, and tours are complementary for groups of less than 15 people.