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While visiting NYC, think about checking out one or two of the best nearby towns, as New York`s strategic location is just a few hours from wonderful destinations like Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Boston.
Whether only having time for a day trip from NYC, or having a couple days, I recommend making use of it. Visiting one of the cities near Manhattan will provide a breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of NYC, and it’s a great way to maximize your time, especially if you won`t return to the region anytime soon.
Additionally, as several majorcities lie near NYC, it`s fairly easy to visit one or two. You can rent a vehicle in NYC or, depending on the town you want to experience, sign up for an organized expedition. In this guide, I’ll help you select a city to discover, though I`ll mention now that they each provide something unique.
Table of Contents
1. Philadelphia, PA, a historic city near New York
Just a two-hour drive from NYC, Philadelphia’s primary attractions await exploration. As one of the most historically significant cities near New York, you’ll find no shortage of activities here.
Of course, participating in popular tourist activities is essential, particularly for initial visits. Be certain to tour Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, and Penn`s Landing, where events, vendors, and programs are often scheduled.
The city of Philadelphia features wonderful museums such as the renowned Franklin Institute and the fascinating Mutter Museum. Another top attraction is the celebrated Philadelphia Museum of Art, but even if you don`t go inside, you should climb the well-known steps at the site and get your photo taken with the iconic Rockystatue.
There are all kinds of dining selections available here, ranging from the Reading Terminal Market to the iconic Philly cheesesteaks at Pat’s and Geno’s. High-end eateries can also be found throughout Rittenhouse Square, alongside upscale shops and casual stores.
We offer a complete guide about how to plan an excursion from NYC to Philadelphia in a day, but if time is scarce, I propose this day tour. It incorporates trips to Philly and Lancaster, a Pennsylvanian city neighboring New York renowned for its Amish community.
- Suggested lodging: The Windsor Suites Philadelphia has a location right on the Ben Franklin Parkway and contains an outdoor terrace and rooftop swimming pool. Additional great hotel options in Philadelphia can be found in our guide on places to lodge in Philadelphia.
2. Washington, D.C., one of the best cities near NYC
Washington, D.C. is another foremost urban area in close proximity to New York City that deserves a visit, and we have a thorough guide on taking a day excursion from NYC to Washington, D.C..
It’s worth the rather extended automobile travel time of 4.5 hours to behold the historic attractions in Washington, D.C., which range from presidential monuments and governing structures to internationally recognized museums and institutions. To begin, the Smithsonian organizations appeal to all interests, even though some of the most popular are the National Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of theAmerican Indian, and the National Museum of American History.
You’ll also take great delight in seeing the striking memorials and monuments here, such as the Lincoln Memorial. Situated by the Tidal Basin, the Jefferson Memorial appears beautifully during springtime when the cherry blossoms bloom. Year-round, you can gain a lovely perspective of the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool, and there are several war memorials where you can pay your respects.
Be certain to stop by the U.S. Capitol building and the White House, which provides free (reserved) tours. I also propose adding Arlington National Cemetery, the Library of Congress, and the U.S. Botanic Garden to your list.
If your time is limited or you feel overwhelmed by everything in D.C., this day excursion from NYC will cover the highlights and handle transportation for you.
- Planned accommodation: The Melrose Georgetown Hotel is a lovely hotel less than a mile from the National Mall. You can find other great hotels in Washington, D.C. mentioned in our guide.
3. Boston, MA, a beautiful city near New York
To end your first day on a positive note, head out to the Hayden Valley about an hour before sundown to see some wildlife. This is one of the best regions in the park to see bison, elk, and even grizzly bears occasionally. You’ll want to bring your binoculars.
You can see a handful of historic locations along Boston`s Freedom Trail starting downtown at Boston Common. This former grazing field is one of the country`s oldest parks, so it offers a great starting point. On the trail, you’ll visit structures like the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, the Massachusetts State House, and more.
The Freedom Trail also passes through North End, Boston’s oldest neighborhood and home to the city’s Little Italy community. Another region you should explore is Beacon Hill, which possesses charming cobblestone roads and gas street lamps.
Boston has many excellent museums to choose from for those who enjoy exploring art and history. Some of the most popular include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, the Museum of Science, the Boston Children’s Museum, and the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum.
Of course, remaining indoors is not required all day. The notable Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy Greenway, renowned Boston Public Garden, and historic Fenway Park offer amazing outside options. Also, don`t miss exploring the Faneuil Hall Marketplace for meals, goods, and additional history.
- Suggested accommodation: The Hotel Club Quarters Faneuil Hall has a prime downtown location as well as modern rooms, a restaurant, and a gym.
4. Baltimore, MD, a city near New York with lots to do
Baltimore is one of New York’s nearby metropolitan areas, specifically 3.5 hours to the southwest. One of the biggest attractions of this port city is its Inner Harbor, where you’ll find the National Aquarium and eateries where you can try Maryland crab cakes. Water taxis and excursions are also popular, so consider something like this luncheon cruise through the Inner Harbor and along the Patapsco River.
There are additional attractions along the waterfront, like the Reginald F. Lewis Museum of MarylandAfrican American History & Culture, the Maryland Science Center,Federal Hill Park, and the AmericanVisionary Art Museum.
Downtown Baltimore`s Arts District is a wonderful place to spend time and explore since it contains the Walters Art Museum, the George Peabody Library, and other establishments.
Along the Patapsco River resides the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine. Here visitors can view a site significant to the War of 1812, which inspired the lyrics of theStar-Spangled Banner.
Another scenic location is Graffiti Alley, north of downtown. If you continue traveling north, you can visit the trendy neighborhood of Hampden and the beautiful Sherwood Gardens.
5. Atlantic City, NJ, one of the best coastal cities near New York
Atlantic City is a coastal municipality near NY with history, entertainment, dining, and more. Plus, it’s just a 2.5-hour drive from the Big Apple, so you can easily make this a couple’s day trip or weekend escape.
For over a century and a half, AC’s renowned walking path by the ocean has been its most visited appeal, sparking the blueprint for the popular Monopoly board. Since 1870, the 5.5-mile promenade has attracted vacationers and seaside strollers. While you’ll encounter standard promenade features like shops and snack vendors, Atlantic City stands apart for the 124-year-old enduring Pier, its wheeled chairs for relaxing, and the gateway showcasing handprints from renowned visitors like Cher, Johnny Carson, and Frank Sinatra.
The boardwalk is also lined with flashy casinos, and you don’t have to be a gambler to have fun at one of them. These casino resorts are replete with gourmet restaurants, luxury shops, and intimate theaters where you can watch a concert or show.
Towards the northern end of the boardwalk, you can admire the views from the 171-foot-tall Absecon Lighthouse. It’s also worth the 20-minute drive to Margate, another New Jersey city near NYC. There, you can visit Lucy the Elephant, a 65-foot novelty statue.
Several hotels away from the Strip offer complimentary shuttles, though they generally only travel to their sister hotels and casinos. Still, these LasVegas transportation services can be useful if you’re lodging at the resort and exploring nearby attractions .
- Suggested lodging: The beachfront Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has a pool, sun terrace, gymnasium, eatery, and lounge.
6. Providence, RI, one of the best cities near New York for families
In under four hours, you can experience the New England charm of Providence, Rhode Island. This major city near New York City is worth the drive thanks to its historic landmarks, entertainment options, and cultural institutions. It’s no wonder it makes for one of the best road trips from NYC.
Providence is home to several universities, including Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), so it has that vibrant college town feeling. At the same time, it’s one of the oldest cities in New England, so there is a lot of history to uncover.
For example, you can immerse yourself in the culture and legacy of Providence at the RISD Museum, the ProvidencePerforming Arts Center, and the Providence Athenaeum, one of the oldest libraries in the U.S.
For a great overview of the city’s history, walk along Benefit Street, which is lined with Federal period homes, the Governor Stephen Hopkins House, and the John Brown House.
Back in the downtown (or “Downcity”) area, visitors will find striking Architecture from the Art Deco and Beaux-Arts periods as well as Victorian facades adorning structures. Crossing over the Woonasquatucket River allows exploration of Waterplace Park and the renowned WaterFire sculpture.
You can experience the diverse neighborhoods of Providence and uncover hidden gems through joining this compact group excursion. You’ll tour the Rhode Island State House, take in the views from Prospect Terrace Park, go to Providence’s Little Italy, Federal Hill, and more.
- Recommended accommodation: Hampton Inn & Suites Providence Downtown offers shuttle service, free breakfast, and comfortable rooms.
7. Albany, NY, another interesting city near New York
Albany is another cool city outside New York City worth exploring. It’s located three hours north of NYC and serves as the state capitol, so it contains numerous impressive governmental structures.
Besides the New York State Capitol, I recommend visiting the Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller Empire State Plaza, which comprises several offices, government buildings, and The Egg Performing Arts Center.
Speaking of the arts, Albany is home to the Albany Institute of History & Art as well as the New YorkState Museum, which has 12 million artifacts like gems, minerals, fossils, and ancient artwork. It’s also worth visiting the museum and planetarium at the Albany Heritage Area VisitorsCenter.
The trail offers truly beautiful scenery and is undoubtedly one of the top hikes within the Valley of Fire. However, it is recommended to walk this Las Vegas trail early in the day or later in the evening to avoid the intense heat, which can exceed 100°F with no shade.
Back in the city proper, I also suggest some historic estates that were built in the late 18th century. Cherry Hill was constructed in 1787 for the noble Van Rensselaer family, while the Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site dates back to the 1760s. More recently, the USS Slater is a destroyer escort ship that launched in 1944 and today serves as a museum.
- Highly recommended lodging: The Renaissance Albany Hotel is centrally located downtown and offers elegant rooms, private parking, a gym, and a restaurant.
8. New Haven, CT, one of the best cities near New York for couples
New Haven, CT lies just over two hours northeast of NYC, making it ideal for a weekend trip. This city near New York hugs Long Island Sound, affording views of Long Island from a new vantage point.
You`ll be able to get a lovely panorama of the water from East Rock Park, which additionally has a rose backyard and climbing trails. Downtown, New Haven Inexperienced is a pleasant park and Nationwide Historic Landmark with a number of 19th-century churches. I additionally suggest Lighthouse Level Park, a pictureque space with good views, a playground, and a carousel.
If you’re interested in art and culture, New Haven is one of the best cities near New York to visit. It’s home to Yale University, which has its own Art Gallery, Center for British Art, and the Peabody Museum. Located off-campus, there are other institutions like the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, the New Haven Museum, and Shubert Theater. The Shore Line Trolley Museum and the Connecticut Science Center are great places to visit with children.
Lastly, taking a walk along Wooster Street in the city center is worthwhile, as this area is known as New Haven’s Little Italy. Here, one can pop into Italian bakeries and pizza shops to sample New Haven-style pizza, which is cooked in a coal furnace and has a thin crust.
- Recommended lodging: Stay in the core of the city at Omni New Haven Hotel at Yale, where you can walk to Yale and numerous downtown attractions.
9. Hartford, CT, another one of the best cities to visit near New York
Hartford, CT is an additional city to visit near New York, and it’s just 45 minutes north of New Haven. As the capital city of Connecticut, Hartford has many attractions as well as shopping and dining venues.
First, the Connecticut State Capitol highlights beautiful Victorian Gothic architecture and offers guided as well as self-guided visits. You can also see amazing Gothic Revival structures in the Coltsville Historical District, like the Church of the Good Shepherd.
Hartford was established in 1784, so some of the earliest structures in the nation exist here. For example, you can explore the former dwelling of writer Harriet Beecher Stowe and the Ancient Burying Ground, which accommodates tombstones dating back to 1648. Mark Twain resided in the city in the late 1800s, and you can participate in a guided visit of his Victorian mansion.
If you’re traveling with family, check out the Connecticut Science Center and Bushnell Park. The latter is home to a 1914 carousel and the Museum of Connecticut History from that era. Not far is Riverside Park, an outdoor area with walking paths and playgrounds where visitors can enjoy fresh air or take a cruise along the Connecticut River.
Finally, I propose seeing the Elizabeth Park Rose Garden outside downtown, specially if you’re traveling as a pair.
- Suggested lodging: The Goodwin is centrally located in downtown Hartford and features an intimate atmosphere with cozy rooms and an Italian restaurant.
10. Syracuse, NY, the best city near New York to visit with friends
The final town near New York that I suggest exploring is Syracuse, NY. It’s approximately 4.5 hours from NYC, and it’s located in the beautiful Finger Lakes region, specifically near Onondaga Lake.
Be certain to stop by Onondaga Lake Park during your stay, otherwise known as the Central Park of Central New York. This lakeside area hosts over seven miles of walking routes and trails, a dog recreation area, a playground, and a Salt Museum.
Within downtown, check out Clinton Square, a park located at the city center surrounded by beautiful architectural structures. The park can be reached on foot from multiple popular spots like the Erie Canal Museum, the Museum of Science and Technology, and the Landmark Theatre. It’s also near the Niagara MohawkBuilding, an Art Deco structure that once served as the headquarters for the Niagara Hudson Electric Company and is known as a “cathedral of light”.
If inclement weather occurs or you want to purchase souvenirs, you`ll find everything you`re searching for at Destiny USA, the largest mall in New York. The Everson Museum of Art and the Community Folk Art Center are also worth exploring.
- Recommended accommodation: Stay at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown where you can get a good night of rest after fully exploring this urban area outside New York.
That concludes the overview of some of the best cities located near New York. Be sure to reference the map below to see the precise location of each city in relation to NYC.
I`d appreciate hearing about any favorite municipalities near New York or inquiries you may have. Please feel free to leave a comment below and I`ll respond promptly! For now, enjoy your activities.
