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. From the romantic Coney Island and Prospect Park to the Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn Botanic Garden, there are so many wonderful attractions 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 775.0)
Perched at the estuary of the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean is New York City, a magnificent, vibrant destination located 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.
'Best of NYC' Lower Manhattan Private SUV Tour
Duration: 3 hours
2. Fire Island, NY
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.
3. Philadelphia, PA
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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4. Atlantic City, NJ
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.
5. Clinton, NJ
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.
6. New London, CT
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.
7. New Haven, CT
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.
8. Smyrna, DE
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.
9. Baltimore, MD
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.
10. Odessa, DE
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.
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. From pristine parks and picturesque sceneries to a host of iconic landmarks, there is a lot in store for you.
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