I often look for quick escapes that don’t take long to reach but still feel like a true break from the city. Living near New York means there are plenty of options nearby, from quiet towns to nature spots. These places offer a chance to relax and reset without a long trip.
If you want to recharge over a weekend without traveling far, knowing the best weekend trips near New York is key. I’ve picked six great spots that make it easy to enjoy a change of scenery and some new experiences close to home.
1) Best Tours New York
I recently took a tour with Best Tours New York, and it was a well-organized and interesting experience. The guides share stories that make the city’s history come alive. The tours are designed to be fun and easy to follow, even if you don’t know much about the city.
They offer a wide range of tours, from food trips to walking tours about movies and TV shows. I liked that they focus on hidden spots that you might miss on your own. The group size felt just right, making it easy to hear and ask questions.
This company has been around since 2009 and the team has experience in film, TV, and travel. You can tell they put effort into making the tours both safe and enjoyable. It’s a good choice whether you’re from New York or just visiting.
Their tours support local businesses, which is a nice bonus. I appreciated that they keep the prices affordable without cutting corners on quality. It felt like a smart way to explore the city with a knowledgeable guide.
Rating: 4.6 (34 reviews)
Location: 201 Allen St Unit #10117, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (347) 497-6927
Website: Visit Website
2) New Yorker Tours
I tried New Yorker Tours during my last trip to NYC, and it was a smooth experience from the start. Renzo and Ingrid, the owners, offer a personal feel that you don’t get with typical tour agencies. They’re licensed guides who really know the city inside and out.
The rides are comfortable and on time. Renzo was patient, even waiting for my delayed flight without any hassle. The vehicles were clean and spacious, making travel around the city easy and relaxing.
Their tours cover not just Manhattan but also cool spots like Brooklyn’s DUMBO and Governors Island. They gave me helpful tips about the city and showed me different views from places like the Empire State Building and One World Observatory.
The best part was how they stayed in touch before, during, and after my trip. The service felt reliable and friendly, with clear communication the entire time. I’d book with them again for sure.
Rating: 5 (165 reviews)
Location: 64-28 Palmetto St, Ridgewood, NY 11385
Contact: (347) 229-8881
Website: Visit Website
3) AthomeTrip
I visited AthomeTrip recently, and I found it to be a solid choice for planning weekend trips around New York. The staff was helpful and offered a good variety of travel options. They also sell event tickets, which adds some convenience if you want to combine travel with entertainment.
The location is easy to find on 7th Avenue, in a high-rise building. They open early during the week and on Saturdays, closing at 6 PM, with the last visitors accepted by 5:40 PM. On Sundays, they open an hour later, which works well if you want a slower start to your day.
Besides just booking trips, the agency also provides some tourist information and photography services. It felt like a well-rounded place for travelers who want a simple and smooth experience without overload.
Their website is straightforward and makes it easy to check out options before visiting in person. For anyone near Midtown Manhattan, stopping by could help you plan your next short getaway efficiently.
Rating: 4.9 (1174 reviews)
Location: 7floor 566 7th Ave Suite 701, New York, NY 10018
Contact: (212) 828-0100
Website: Visit Website
4) Nice Guy Tours
I took a walking food tour with Nice Guy Tours in New York City, and it was a great way to explore some of the city’s best neighborhoods. The tour lasts about three hours and includes multiple stops where you get to taste a variety of local dishes. It’s not just about food; you also learn interesting details about the history and culture of each place.
The Greenwich Village tour stood out to me because it mixes food tastings with visits to famous spots around Washington Square Park. I tried everything from pizza to cupcakes, which gave me a real taste of the neighborhood’s diversity. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, sharing stories that made the experience enjoyable and informative.
I also joined a tour on the Lower East Side, where the focus was on iconic eats like pastrami at Katz’s Deli. The walk through this ever-changing area brought the city’s history to life while I enjoyed food that felt authentic and homemade. Small groups made it easy to ask questions and connect with others on the tour.
What I liked most was how the tour balanced tasty food with interesting facts and a relaxed pace. It felt like walking around with a local friend who wanted to show me their favorite places. It’s a good choice if you want a combination of culture, history, and food in one trip.
Rating: 5 (276 reviews)
Location: 70 Greenwich Ave #443, New York, NY 10011
Contact: (646) 883-0310
Website: Visit Website
5) Sourced Adventures
I joined a day trip with Sourced Adventures that left a strong impression. The trip started on time and the host made sure everyone felt welcome. The bus ride was smooth, and I liked not having to worry about driving or finding parking.
The destinations were well chosen for outdoor fun. I went snow tubing and later visited a brewery. The balance of activities was just right, not too short or long. The guides were friendly and kept things moving at a good pace.
Food options on the trip were decent, though not wide-ranging. I noticed some attention to detail could be improved, especially for people with food allergies. Still, the overall service was organized and professional, making the experience simple and stress-free.
This company also works with businesses, which shows it’s not just for casual adventurers. If you want to escape the city for a day without hassle, their trips offer a good mix of convenience and outdoor fun.
Rating: 4.8 (320 reviews)
Location: 85 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (646) 847-2367
Website: Visit Website
6) Custom & Private New York Tours Inc
I recently used Custom & Private New York Tours Inc for a weekend in the city. Their team was easy to reach and very flexible with my schedule. I liked that I didn’t have to pay upfront. They only asked for payment after the tour finished, which made me feel more comfortable.
The guides were knowledgeable and spoke several languages, including Spanish and French. I enjoyed learning about parts of New York that many tourists miss. The tour was private, so I could ask questions without feeling rushed or crowded.
One thing I appreciated was their clear communication. The night before the tour, they sent a reminder to make sure everything was set. The offices are located on Central Park West, which was easy for me to find. Overall, it was a smooth and informative experience, without any hassle.
Rating: 4.7 (93 reviews)
Location: 382 Central Prk W, New York, NY 10025
Contact: (212) 222-1441
Website: Visit Website
Frequently Asked Questions
I’ve gathered useful details about weekend trips near New York that cover different interests. From spots perfect for couples to family-friendly places, and options that work without a car, these answers focus on practical advice.
What are some top destinations for a luxury weekend getaway near NYC for couples?
For a luxury couple’s trip, I recommend places like Beacon, New York, which has boutique hotels and fine dining. Fairfield County in Connecticut offers upscale stays and romantic settings. These spots balance quiet charm with high-end amenities.
What are the best family-friendly weekend getaways from New York City?
Lancaster, Pennsylvania, is great for families, with kid-focused attractions and outdoor space. The Hudson Valley area also has parks and educational spots for all ages. Both places offer a relaxed pace and family-friendly lodging.
Can you suggest affordable weekend trip options from NYC accessible by train?
Asbury Park, New Jersey, is an affordable beach town reachable by train. Bear Mountain also works well for hiking trips without needing a car. These places keep costs low while offering easy transit access.
Where can I go for a romantic weekend escape within a short plane ride from NYC?
For a quick flight, Burlington, Vermont, is scenic and peaceful with lakeside views. Manchester, Vermont, also fits this, combining natural beauty with cozy inns. Both offer intimate settings close to nature.
What are scenic upstate New York destinations for a weekend trip?
The Hudson Valley stands out for its rivers, hiking trails, and arts scene. Beacon, New York, features galleries and outdoor activities. These spots provide a mix of nature and culture just a couple of hours from the city.
How can I enjoy a weekend away from NYC without relying on a car?
Choosing destinations accessible by train, like Hudson Valley or Asbury Park, lets me skip driving. Renting bikes or walking in these towns helps explore without cars. Public transit and local tours make trips easy and stress-free.
