Top 12 Day Trips From Long Island, New York - Updated 2024

day trips from long island
Stephen
Stephen 
Updated
| 5 min read

Located on the East Coast and extending away from New York City is a magnificent, beautiful island full of endless possibilities and covering a landmass of approximately 3,629 sq. km (1,401.17 sq. mi) - Long Island. Boasting a number of pristine beaches, wineries, beautiful parks, antique shops, restaurants, and other vibrant social joints, it’s easy to see why this is a paradise for tourists. It also features posh hotels with a pool for tourists to stay. Unique accommodations, such as RV and camper rentals, are available as well. From the romantic Coney Island and Prospect Park to the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, there are so many tourist attractions in and around Long Island for you to discover. To see more of this place and its surrounding areas, read on to know more about top day trips from Long Island, New York.

1. New York City, NY (from USD 736.0)

Perched at the estuary of the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean is New York City, a magnificent, vibrant place to visit just about 51.2 miles (82.40 km) from the beautiful Long Island. From iconic landmarks and architectural wonders to beautiful parks and shopping boutiques, this city has a lot to offer its visitors. First, take a short trip to Central Park and enjoy a fun outing with your family. Take advantage of the romantic mood at Times Square as you window shop and admire the beautiful lights illuminating the streets. End your trip at Empire State Building and take in breathtaking views of the city from the observatory.

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'Best of NYC' Lower Manhattan Private SUV Tour

Duration: 3 hours

102 reviews

2. Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City NJ
Source: Photo by user Raymond Adriano used under CC BY 2.0

Famed for its vast beaches, a wide range of casinos, and the iconic boardwalk, Atlantic City is a lovely place tucked somewhere on New Jersey’s Atlantic coastline, some 177.8 miles (286.14 km) from Long Island. With a vibrant atmosphere, lively nightclubs, and a variety of high-end hotels and restaurants, it serves as one of the most attractive tourist destinations on the East Coast. Enjoy a good time gambling at Hard Rock Hotel Casino Atlantic City. Take your family to Steel Pier for fun, and maybe later enjoy a wonderful dinner at Borgata. Enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean from the Atlantic City Boardwalk.

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3. Baltimore, MD

National Aquarium across Inner Harbour in Baltimore
Source: Photo by user John Menard used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The 239.4-mile (385.28-km) journey from Long Island to Baltimore may seem like a long one, but it is a trip worth taking if you wish to uncover the mesmerizing beauty of the state of Maryland. Explore different marine features and learn about marine life at National Aquarium. Get a glimpse of the magical Inner Harbor as you enjoy sweeping views of the city from the Maryland Science Center. Learn about the 1812 War when you take a tour of Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Finish your adventure at Oriole Park at Camden Yards by watching a game of baseball.

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4. Philadelphia, PA

City Hall-Philadelphia,PA
Source: Photo by user Jason Murphy used under CC BY 2.0

Are you looking to enjoy some outdoor fun with your family during your vacation in Long Island? Travel approximately 150 miles (241.56 km) to Philadelphia in Pennsylvania and explore the charming beauty of the south. Philly, as it is popularly known, is a city that boasts a rich history pertaining to America’s independence. Start your tour by visiting the Liberty Bell - a sign of the people’s freedom. Make sure to explore Independence National Historical Park to learn more about this subject. For art lovers, you must stop by Philadelphia Museum of Art during your visit.

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5. Cape May, NJ (from USD 36.68)

day trips from long island | cape may, nj

Embark on a delightful day trip to Cape May, a charming seaside town on the southern tip of New Jersey. Explore the picturesque Cape May Historic District, known for its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture and quaint streets with shops and restaurants.

Stroll along the pristine beaches, soaking up the sun and breathing in the fresh ocean air. Visit the historic Cape May Lighthouse, offering panoramic views of the coastline. Enjoy a scenic nature walk through Cape May Point State Park, where you can spot migratory birds and admire the diverse ecosystem. Indulge in delicious seafood at one of the local eateries, and remember to sample the famous Cape May fudge.

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Cape May: 2-Hour Dolphin Watching Cruise

Duration: 2.0 hour

81 reviews

6. Hudson Valley, NY (from USD 145.0)

A quick trip from Long Island to Hudson Valley is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City. Start your day with a scenic drive to the Mohonk Mountain House and enjoy hiking trails leading to stunning Hudson Valley views. Continue your adventure to the Walkway Over the Hudson, a pedestrian bridge that provides breathtaking views of the Hudson River.

Stroll through the charming town of Rhinebeck and explore its unique shops and local cuisine. Visit the historic Vanderbilt Mansion and Gardens or tour the Culinary Institute of America. End your day with a relaxing visit to the Millbrook Vineyards and Winery, where you can enjoy a wine tasting while overlooking the beautiful Hudson Valley scenery.

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Hudson Valley Craft Brewery Bike Tour

Duration: 8 hours

20 reviews

7. Fire Island, NY

Fire Island Light Station 1
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Don Fick used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Sitting about 26.7 miles (42.97 km) to the south of Long Island’s shores, Fire Island is a magical barrier island covering an area of about 22.64 sq. km (8.74 sq. mi), and it is a small paradise in this part of the Atlantic Ocean. Boasting a number of beautiful, sandy beaches and high-profile resorts, you will definitely fall in love with this place. Enjoy a family day out at Robert Moses State Park. Spend some time at Fire Island National Seashore admiring the picturesque surroundings. Climb the lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking views of the sea.

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8. Clinton, NJ

Clinton, NJ
Source: Pixabay

Sitting on the southern branch of the Raritan River in Hunterdon County, Clinton is a vibrant, charming town situated 109.6 miles (176.38 km) from the beautiful Long Island. Boasting so many outdoor attractions, you will be able to enjoy unforgettable experiences during your trip here. Travel back in time to the 19th century and learn about different industrial processes at the Red Mill Museum Village. Explore fascinating contemporary arts plus other unique designs at Hunterdon Art Museum. For camping and hiking enthusiasts, take a trip down to Round Valley Reservoir or Spruce Run Recreation Area and have fun.

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9. New London, CT

New London skyline from Fort Griswold, December 2017
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pi.1415926535 used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Enjoy wonderful views of the picturesque scenery at New London, a charming coastal city that lies some 76 miles (122.31 km) north of Long Island. Populated with several museums and wonderful parks, the city attracts curious travelers to come and explore its beauty. One of its main attractions is Ocean Beach Park, which has exciting features like an Olympic-size pool, a small golf course, playgrounds, and a nice café. You can view impressive works of art at Lyman Allyn Art Museum, enjoy breathtaking views from New London Ledge Light House, and take a tour of Fort Trumbull State Park and Museum.

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10. New Haven, CT

New Haven, CT
Source: Pixabay

Travel about 107 miles (172.36 km) up north from Long Island to explore New Haven and the endless possibilities that the state of Connecticut has to offer. Apart from being a lovely coastal city, you will also find a ton of charming attractions and hidden gems that make this place a tourist hotspot. Take your family to East Rock Park for a picnic or a hike. Discover art from the 16th to the 19th centuries at Yale Center for British Art. Admire beautiful Italian paintings, African sculptures, and modern art at Yale University Art Gallery.

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11. Smyrna, DE

Main Street NB approaching Commerce Street Smyrna DE
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Dough4872 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Lying in both counties of Kent and New Castle in the state of Delaware, Smyrna is a small, attractive town situated 210.8 miles (339.25 km) south of Long Island. Full of beautiful attractions, this is a place where adventure is the order of the day. For anyone interested in outdoor activities, Blackbird State Forest is the best place to start your tour, and Lake Como is where you can participate in water activities and sports. Learn about local history and culture as you travel back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries at Smyrna Museum.

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12. Odessa, DE

Old Academy Odessa DE
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Smallbones used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Formerly known as Cantwell’s Bridge, Odessa is a pristine little town nestled in New Castle County, Delaware, approximately 198 miles (318.65 km) from Long Island. In the 18th century, it was mostly used as a shipping port. Today, the town serves as a major tourist attraction in the county. Explore the beautiful architecture all around, especially at the tranquil Historic Odessa Foundation. Take your family to Augustine Wildlife Area to hike or fish, and visit Corbit Sharp House and admire the Georgian architecture.

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Uncover the beauty of Long Island and its surroundings

A vacation in Long Island promises a lot of fun considering all the beautiful attractions in the surrounding areas mentioned above. After all the sightseeing in Long Island, discover more adventures and attractions by taking one of the top day trips from the island.

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Frequently asked questions about day trips from Long Island, New York


  • Which day trip spots near Long Island are ideal for couples?

    Happy-in-love travelers can take advantage of the romantic mood in Times Square or enjoy stunning views atop the Empire State Building in New York City. They can also take love strolls along the Atlantic City Boardwalk together or share a bottle of wine at The Millbrook Vineyards and Winery while looking out at the beautiful Hudson Valley scenery.

  • Which are the destinations near Long Island that feature beaches?

    Atlantic City, Cape May, and Fire Island are ideal destinations near Long Island for beachgoers. New London, Connecticut, another day trip spot from the island, features the popular Ocean Beach Park. This vast beach boardwalk boasts playgrounds, a large pool, and a miniature golf course.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
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Stephen is an avid content writer with a passion for adventure. He enjoys traveling and has visited several countries around the world. So far, South Africa stands out as his most exciting...Read more

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