Excursions from New York

We are dealing with a city that needs no introduction. The monuments, attractions, and neighborhoods of New York are so iconic that they deserve multiple visits.

You’re probably wondering how to get to the Statue of Liberty or which places to visit in New York, but it’s worth setting aside a day to discover nearby cities and attractions. You won’t regret it!

Here are the top 5 excursions from New York.

The 5 Best Excursions from New York

Washington from New York

 

Washington is one of the most popular excursions from New York and a must-visit if you have the time. Many travelers choose to go to Washington from New York by bus and return at the end of the day, a journey that can take just over 3 hours but is well worth it.

Recharge at one of Georgetown’s indie coffee shops and begin exploring the historic streets of this city. Start at the National Mall, where you can see famous sites like the White House, the Capitol, and the Lincoln Memorial.

Walk down Constitution Avenue to see some of the Nation’s most important monuments and pass by buildings like the State Department, the National Museum of Natural History, and the Albert Einstein Memorial.

There are definitely hundreds of places to see and visit in this capital! The easiest way to cover the main highlights in a single day is the excursion to Washington from New York, which includes transportation, stops in New Jersey, and time to photograph the city lights at dusk.

You can also take a combined tour of Washington, DC, and Philadelphia to experience two key cities in U.S. history in one trip.

Feel the Power of Nature at Niagara Falls

 

Around 400 miles from New York, you’ll find a unique natural landscape: Niagara Falls. As North America’s oldest tourist attraction, you can reach it by car, plane, or bus from the Big Apple.

“Niagara,” meaning “thunder of water” in native languages, is the name given to these three large waterfalls on the U.S.-Canada northeastern border: American Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, each named for its shape.

To take a break from the city, consider this 1-day Niagara excursion, which allows you to travel overnight, saving on accommodation and taking the iconic “Maid of the Mist” boat through this natural wonder.

Boston, the American Hub of Knowledge

 

Just 220 miles from New York, Boston is the oldest city in the U.S. Home to prestigious campuses like MIT and Harvard University, Boston is known as America’s culture and knowledge capital.

Architecture lovers will enjoy Copley Square, known for its prominent buildings, row houses, boutiques, and restaurants. Don’t miss the Boston Public Library, the first large municipal public library in the U.S.

Highlights include Fenway Park, home of the Red Sox, and Beacon Hill, a wealthy neighborhood where the Kennedys once lived. Try traditional fish and chips while watching street performers at Quincy Market.

To get to Boston from New York, you can rent a car or take an organized excursion with transportation, like this visit to Boston from New York. It includes transport, a guide, and stops at iconic sites like the bar from the TV show “Cheers”—places that are harder to explore on your own.

Philadelphia: The Perfect Destination Near New York

 

Cheesesteaks, Rocky’s famous steps, and significant American history? Yes, that’s Philadelphia. The city boasts expansive urban green spaces, the Christ Church Cemetery, where Benjamin Franklin rests, and a Gothic Masonic temple.

While there, Lancaster, around 70 miles away, is worth a visit. Here, you’ll find one of the largest Amish communities in the U.S., a place where these communities live traditional, technology-free lives.

Philadelphia is a short train ride away, taking just over an hour. You can also take a 1-day tour to Philadelphia and the Amish Community, avoiding travel hassles and listening to stories from an expert Spanish-speaking guide who will take you to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to Rocky’s famous steps.

A Unique Experience in NY: Gospel Mass in Harlem

 

We would never judge a traveler who prefers to make their entire stay in New York a 100% local experience. There are countless places to visit, from Times Square to New York’s iconic observation decks, but if you’re looking for something different and authentic, we suggest visiting Harlem. This neighborhood is world-renowned for its African American heritage and vibrant cultural scene.

At its heart is the Apollo Theater, which has hosted singers like Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Lauryn Hill. It offers guided tours if you’re interested in learning about one of the country’s most famous music venues. You can also explore Sugar Hill, where the City College of New York, the first free public university in the United States, is located.

If you want to experience the energy of a gospel service in Harlem, we recommend attending a service at the Greater File Chapel Baptist Church on a tour with a guide.