A Complete Guide to Day Trips from New York – One Day Itineraries

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Let us help you find exactly what you need!
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Let us help you find exactly what you need!

Are you looking for a fun and exciting day trip in NYC? Look no further! 

With its iconic attractions, rich culture and world-renowned sights, NYC offers plenty of options for a memorable trip. 

In this article, we have given you a list of possible day trips from New York.

Read on to learn more about the different New York day trips, prices, and activities you can enjoy during a trip to this fantastic city!

Niagara Falls, USA Side

Niagara Falls, USA Side
Image: Wikipedia.org

On the USA side, Niagara Falls offers a breathtaking spectacle of natural beauty. 

The Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls collectively create a mesmerizing cascade. 

You can explore attractions like Niagara Falls State Park, the Cave of the Winds, and the iconic Maid of the Mist boat tour, bringing them up close to the thundering waters. 

Niagara Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers. Here is the list of tickets available to choose from for the Niagara Falls:

From New York City: Niagara Falls One-Day Trip

Niagara Falls One-Day Trip

Ride the iconic ‘Maid of the Mist boat and get up close and personal with the breathtaking cascades of Niagara Falls. 

Take in the fantastic views of Horseshoe Falls, American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls while visiting Goat Island, Luna Island and all the observatories surrounding the falls. 

Enjoy a mesmerizing 5-hour tour of the gigantic Niagara Falls and treat your eyes to an amazing light show at night. 

Don’t miss out on the exciting Niagara Falls One-Day Tour!

Duration: 22 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Maid of the Mist Boat Tour, Niagara Falls (guided tour, boat cruise)
  • Horseshoe Falls, Niagara Falls
  • Niagara Falls, USA Side (guided tour)
  • American Falls
  • Goat Island
  • Bridal Veil Falls, Niagara Falls

This tour includes:

  • Round-trip transportation
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off (private option)
  • Visit the Niagara Falls
  • Maid Of The Mist boat ride (depends on the choice booked)
  • Live guide
  • Entrance and national park fees

Meeting point: Front of The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel.

Tour Prices:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger) $714

From New York City: Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Trip

Niagara Falls Full-Day Bus Trip

Explore the natural wonder of Niagara Falls on a full-day bus tour. 

Take a scenic drive to the falls, where you can feel the mist in the air and admire the power of the three waterfalls. 

Learn about the history of this majestic site from your knowledgeable guide. Enjoy the convenience of Wi-Fi on board as you make your way to the falls. 

Afterward, take a break and lunch at the Table Rock Welcome Center. 

Finally, ride the Hornblower Niagara Cruise boat to get a close-up view of the falls.

Duration: 19 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Times Square
  • Maid of the Mist Boat Tour, Niagara Falls (guided tour, boat cruise)
  • Niagara Falls, USA Side (guided tour)

This tour includes:

  • Tour of Niagara Falls
  • Bilingual guide
  • Roundtrip transfer from New York City on a comfortable bus
  • Wi-Fi on board the bus
  • Tickets to the Maid of the Mist boat cruise (usually May – October, based on ice conditions, if the option is selected)
  • Entry to the observation tower at Terrapin Point (if option is selected)

Meeting point: front of the Lids store in Two Times Square, 714 Seventh Av. Lids is located between 47th and 48th Street. Get Directions.

New York Day Trip Price

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (12 to 99 years) $253
Child ticket (3 to 11 years)$229

From NYC: 1-Day Niagara Falls Tour with Seasonal Boat Ride

Niagara Falls Tour with Seasonal Boat Ride

Experience a thrilling 1-day Niagara Falls tour from NYC! 

Get up close to the falls on the Maid of the Mist boat ride (depending on availability) and take advantage of the various vantage points of the falls from Goat Island. 

This tour is excellent for those looking to experience Niagara Falls’ beauty without worrying about Canadian visas or border crossings. 

Enjoy the majestic views of the falls and take a guided tour of the Cave of the Winds. 

Make sure to bring your camera to capture the moment!

Duration: 22 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Niagara Falls
  • Maid Of The Mist
  • The Horseshoe Falls
  • Goat Island
  • Bridal Veil Falls

This tour includes:

  • Boat ride on the “Maid Of The Mist” (not included from November 6 to May 25)
  • Pickup and drop-off from The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel
  • Air-conditioned bus with wifi, USB ports and movies

Meeting point: The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel located at & avenue between 51st and 52nd Streets

Tour Price

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (13 to 99 years) $219
Child ticket (4 to 12 years)$179
Infant ticket (3 years and younger)$60

Day trips in Brooklyn, New York 

Day trips in Brooklyn, New York

Brooklyn, New York, is a dynamic borough with a rich cultural tapestry. Known for its diverse neighborhoods, historic brownstones, and vibrant arts scene!

From the iconic Coney Island to the hipster enclaves of Williamsburg, Brooklyn offers something for everyone. 

Its thriving culinary scene, waterfront parks, and a sense of community make it a must-see destination. 

With a blend of old-world charm and contemporary lifestyles, Brooklyn remains integral to New York City’s cultural identity. 

Below are the different ticket options you can use to visit Brooklyn:

Brooklyn: Half-Day Cycling Tour

Experience Brooklyn’s vast diversity and culture on this half-day cycling tour. 

Led by local avid cyclists, explore 25+ neighborhoods in one epic ride. 

You’ll have the opportunity to sample some of the locals’ favorite spots, including breakfast, whiskey and chocolate tastings, and lunch along the Brooklyn Waterfront. 

Enjoy the sights and sounds of Brooklyn from a unique perspective – get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Duration: 6 hours

This tour includes:

  • Bike and helmet rental
  • Tour guide services
  • Tastings

Meeting point: Lockaway Self-Storage

Tour Prices:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (99 years & younger) $128

NYC: Contrasts & Color Bus Tour of Bronx, Brooklyn, & Queens

Contrasts & Color Bus Tour of Bronx, Brooklyn, & Queens
Image: Viator.com

Experience the contrasts and colors of New York City with an NYC expert on a bus tour of the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens. 

Enjoy a unique view of the city from the comfort of a bus, with stops at the Apollo Theater’s Walk of Fame and the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan’s skyline. 

You’ll also see some of the city’s most stunning graffiti murals and colorful street art. 

This is a great way to explore the city and discover its hidden gems.

Duration: 6 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Manhattan
  • Bronx
  • Brooklyn
  • Queens

This tour includes:

  • Live tour guide: English
  • Transport by bus/coach

Meeting point: Corner of 8th Avenue and 51st Street

Tour Price:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (12 to 99 years) $79
Child ticket (3 to 11 years)$75

Washington DC 

Washington DC Image: Britannica.com
Image: Britannica.com

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city steeped in history and political significance. 

It is known for iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Washington Monument.

The city’s diverse neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and historical significance make it a unique and captivating destination for visitors and residents alike.

Here are the lists of ticket options to choose from to make your stay even more memorable

New York City: Full-Day Washington DC City Highlights Tour

Discover the best of the nation’s capital on this full-day Washington DC City Highlights Tour. 

Admire the iconic sights of Capitol Hill, including the Capitol, the White House, and the Senate. 

Continue to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, then pause for a moment of reflection at the Vietnam and Korean War Memorials. 

Commemorate the fallen at the Arlington National Cemetery, then drive past the Washington Monument.

Duration: 14 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • New York City
  • Washington, DC
  • White House, Washington (photo stop)
  • United States Capitol, Washington DC (photo stop)
  • Lincoln Memorial, Washington
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial

This tour includes:

  • Entry tickets to all attractions chosen 
  • Live tour guide 
  • To and Fro- Transport

Meeting point: Port Authority Bus Terminal building

Tour Price:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (2+ years) $169

From New York City: Washington and Philadelphia 1-Day Tour

Washington and Philadelphia 1-Day Tour

Learn about the history of two of America’s most famous cities with a guided 1-day tour from New York City. 

Visit Washington D.C. and Philadelphia and explore key landmarks such as the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, and the famous steps from the classic movie, “Rocky.” 

Hear about the history of Philadelphia, the first-ever U.S. capital, admire famous artworks and explore some of the region’s parks. 

This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of both cities, as well as to take some fantastic photos.

Duration: 15 to 17 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Lincoln Memorial
  • National Mall
  • Independence Hall
  • Washington
  • Iwo Jima Memorial
  • White House
  • Home and office of the U.S. President
  • The Capitol Building
  • Home of the U.S. Congress
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Old City neighborhood
  • The Independence National Historical Park

This tour includes:

  • Entry tickets to all attractions visited 
  • Licensed professional guide
  • Round-trip transfer from New York City

Meeting point: The Lids at Two Times Square

Tour Price:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (12 to 99 years) $167
Child ticket (3 to 11 years)$161

From NYC: Guided Day Trip to Washington DC by Van or Bus

Guided Day Trip to Washington DC by Van or Bus

Explore the nation’s capital in a guided day trip to Washington, DC, from NYC by Van or Bus. 

Learn more about the history and culture of the United States while visiting the most important memorials and monuments. 

Take beautiful photos of the White House and Washington Monument to remember your trip. 

Get to know the political and administrative heart of the United States and understand the impact of decisions made in the capital. 

Have an unforgettable experience with a guided tour of the capital of the United States.

Duration: 15 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Smithsonian Air
  • Space Museum
  • White House
  • Washington Monument
  • New Jersey 
  • Delaware
  • Maryland
  • Virginia
  • Arlington
  • Kennedy’s grave
  • Iwo Jima memorial
  • Washington DC
  • The Albert Einstein Memorial
  • National Mall
  • Korean War Memorial
  • The Lincoln Memorial
  • The Vietnam War Memorial
  • Organization of American States
  • The American Red Cross
  • The Treasury Department 
  • FBI buildings
  • The National Archives

This tour includes:

  • Live tour guide
  • Entry tickets  & places visited
  • Transport by bus/coach, van

Meeting point: The Manhattan Times Square Hotel. Get Directions.

Tour Price:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger) $109

Washington DC Day Trip by Bus from New York City

Washington DC Day Trip by Bus from New York City

Take a day trip by bus from New York City to Washington, DC and explore the capital of the United States. 

See historical memorials such as the Lincoln and Vietnam Veterans Memorials. 

Enjoy some free time at Union Station and snap pictures of the iconic buildings. 

Don’t forget to stop outside the White House and take a photo of one of the most iconic buildings in the world. 

Enjoy a day of sightseeing and learning about the history of Washington, DC.

Duration: 14 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Smithsonian Air
  • Space Museum
  • White House
  • Washington Monument
  • New Jersey 
  • Delaware
  • Maryland
  • Virginia
  • Arlington
  • Kennedy’s grave
  • The National Archives
  • Iwo Jima memorial
  • Washington DC
  • The Albert Einstein Memorial
  • National Mall
  • Korean War Memorial
  • The Lincoln Memorial
  • The Vietnam War Memorial
  • Organization of American States
  • The American Red Cross
  • The Treasury Department 
  • FBI buildings

This tour includes:

  • Round-trip transportation
  • English or Spanish-speaking escort tour guide
  • All admissions

Meeting point: McDonald’s on the corner of Broadway and 51st St

Tour Price

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger) $145

Philadelphia

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, often called the “City of Brotherly Love,” is a historic and vibrant metropolis in the northeastern United States. 

It played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and is known for its rich cultural heritage. 

With a diverse culinary scene, world-class museums, and a strong sense of community, Philadelphia remains a dynamic hub of American culture and history.

Here are a few tour options to Philadelphia from New York City:

From New York City: Philadelphia and Amish Country Day Trip

Explore the famous historical sites of Philadelphia and learn more about Amish culture and customs on this exciting day trip from New York City. 

Visit the Liberty Bell, Constitution Hall and Independence Square and run up the iconic “Rocky Steps.” 

Then, take a scenic drive through the Pennsylvania countryside, experience an authentic Amish buggy ride, and visit an Amish market. 

This full-day trip is sure to be a memorable experience.

Duration: 14 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Elfert Alley
  • Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
  • Lancaster County
  • Constitution Hall
  • Independence Square
  • Traditional market

This tour includes:

  • Entry tickets & places visited: Liberty Bell Visit
  • Live tour guide
  • Transport by bus/coach, van

Meeting point: Side entrance to the Port Authority bus terminal. Get Directions.

Tour Price:

Age Tour price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger) $169

From New York: Philadelphia And Community Amish Day Trip

Philadelphia And Community Amish Day Trip

Take a guided day trip from New York City and explore the history of the United States. 

Visit the city where the United States Congress met for the first time and the famous steps from the movie Rocky. 

Walk down the oldest street in the country and visit an Amish community in Lancaster. 

Enjoy this unique cultural experience and learn more about the Amish people, their customs and way of life. 

Duration: 13 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • The Amish Community
  • The oldest cities in America
  • Philadelphia city
  • The Liberty Bell
  • The Independence Hall
  • Congress Hall
  • Christ Church Cemetery
  • House of Betsy Ross
  • Elfreth’s Alley
  • Parque del Amor
  • The City Hall
  • The State Penitentiary
  • Philadelphia Museum of Art
  • The Amish Community
  • An Amish Village

This tour includes:

  • Guided City tour
  • Round-trip transportation
  • To and Fro- transport

Meeting point: The Manhattan at Times Square Hotel

Tour Price:

AgeTour price
Adult ticket (99 years and younger) $139

Boston

Boston

Boston, often called the “Cradle of Liberty,” is a historic city in the United States. 

Known for its rich colonial past and iconic landmarks like the Freedom Trail, Faneuil Hall, and Fenway Park, Boston seamlessly blends history with modernity. 

The city offers a vibrant cultural scene, delicious cuisine, and a deep-seated pride in its heritage, making it a unique and captivating destination.

One of the best ways to explore the sights and sounds of Boston is to take a day trip! Here are the different ticket options to choose from

From New York City: Boston and the Freedom Trail Day Trip

Experience a day trip from New York City to the historic city of Boston and explore its freedom Trail. 

Walk the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile route past 16 of the city’s most significant historical sites. 

Visit the USS Constitution, America’s oldest commissioned Navy ship and the location of the famous Tea Party. 

After exploring the city, enjoy lunch at Boston Common, the famous public park. 

Duration: 14  hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Cambridge
  • Harvard Yard
  • Widener library
  • City Hall
  • MIT 
  • Cambridge College
  • Charles River
  • Copley Square
  • Boston Common Park
  • Quincy Market
  • The Navy ship Constitution

This tour includes:

  • Entry ticket to all attractions visited
  • Live tour guide
  • Transport by van

Meeting point: Grayline New York Tours

Tour Price:

Age Tour price
Adult ticket (2 to 99 years and younger) $169

From New York City: Boston in One Day Tour

Boston in One Day Tour

Discover the sights of Boston from New York City in one day. 

Start your journey by visiting the Freedom Trail and historical sites such as the Massachusetts State House, Old State House, Granary Burying Ground, and more.

After that, you can explore the bustling Quincy Market, which is full of shops and eateries. 

End the day by checking out Harvard University’s main campus. 

Duration: 15 hours

Sights during the tour:

  • Massachusetts State House
  • Old State House
  • Granary Burying Ground, 
  • Kings Chapel
  • Faneuil Hall
  • Quincy Market
  • Harvard University

This tour includes:

  • Pickup and drop-off from 2 meeting points
  • Transport by air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional guide

Tour Price:

Age Tour price
Adult ticket (10+ years) $135
Child ticket (3 to 9 years) $125
Infant ticket (up to 2 years) Free

FAQs about Day trips from NYC

1. What to see in NYC in one day?

2. What should you bring to the NYC day trip?

3. What are the best things to do on a day trip to NYC?

4. Where to go for a day trip from NYC?

5. Is it worth going to NYC for a day?

6. How do I plan a one-day trip to New York?

7. Is one day enough for New York?

8. How much should I budget for a day in New York?

9. Can you walk Manhattan in a day?

10. What should you do in NYC for 12 hours?

Featured Image: Tiqets.com

Table of Contents

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Amenities
Accessibility and Mobility
Wheelchair access
Lift and Ramps
Information and Navigation
Information Desk
Audio guides
Guide Map
Safety and Security
First aid
Security and surveillance
Convenience
Restrooms
Baby changing facilities
Lockers and Cloakroom
Water Filter