Off the Island: Daytrips From New York City

View of the New York City skyline from across the water on a sunny day.

Who is this for?  Travelers looking to make the most of their vacation on and off Manhattan Island.


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  • Other Islands
  • Mainland New York
  • New Jersey
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Stay at Incentra Village House

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You’ll never run out of things to do in New York City, but that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t get off the island to explore. Manhattan isn’t just filled with amazing history and attractions; it’s surrounded by them, too. Many of which are just a short drive or train ride away! Next Time you’re in the Big Apple, schedule some time for some of these daytrips from New York City.

A coin-operated viewer on a brick pier overlooking the water with a NYC skyline in the distance.

Other Islands


Manhattan is the most famous island associated with New York, but it’s certainly not the only one worth visiting. Each island has a unique history and character that make it worth a short subway ride. Here are some of the best attractions on the nearby islands of New York.

Brooklyn


For an iconic time, head to Brooklyn. This island is home to several quintessentially New York landmarks, including the Brooklyn Bridge and Coney Island. Some attractions include:



  • Brooklyn Bridge: Walk across this iconic bridge to get the full Brooklyn experience.
  • Brooklyn Bridge Park: After your walk, rest at this waterfront park for its food stands, the pier, and unbeatable photos of Lower Manhattan.
  • Coney Island: A classic amusement destination featuring the boardwalk, Nathan’s Famous, Luna Park rides, and sandy beaches.
  • Brooklyn Heights Promenade: The harbor and the sweeping views of the city skyline make this one of the most romantic spots in Brooklyn. Perfect for a walking date.
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Spend the day reveling in the beauty of nature at this century-old garden. 


Brooklyn Bridge over water, cityscape in the background, blue sky.
View of Long Island City skyline with water in the foreground and a

Long Island


In the mood for some Gilded Age glamour? You can find it on Long Island. Revel in the grand architecture and stunning grounds of a bygone age. Some highlights of Long Island include:



  • Old Westbury Gardens: Tour an early 20th-century estate, including a mansion, formal gardens, rolling lawns, and peaceful walking trails.
  • Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum: Walk through a sprawling Spanish-Revival mansion and museum. The Habitat and Hall of Fishes exhibits are particularly worth seeing. 
  • Hempstead House: AKA “Gould-Guggenheim Estate” or “Sands Point Preserve,” is located in “East Egg”, made famous by The Great Gatsby. The estate features a dramatic limestone mansion displaying the opulence that defined the era.
  • Sagamore Hill National Historic Site: Once home to Theodore Roosevelt, the “summer White House” now honors his legacy with a beautiful mansion and 83 acres of nature to explore.
  • Montauk Point Lighthouse: Admire rocky shores and scenic ocean views at the oldest lighthouse in New York State.


Staten Island


Whether you love history or tranquility, Staten Island offers the perfect afternoon. Some places worth visiting on Staten Island are:



  • New York Chinese Scholar Garden: Stroll through a serene garden of ponds, pavilions, and Ming-style architecture.   
  • Fort Wadsworth: Tour this historic military fort with incredible views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and New York Harbor.
  • Historic Richmond Town:  Learn about early colonial settlements in this preserved colonial village where costumed interpreters bring history to life.
  • Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach: Take an afternoon walk on this waterfront walkway. You can enjoy the sea breeze and scenic ocean overview.


Staten Island Ferry terminal entrance with large sign under a blue sky.
Welcome sign to New York,

Mainland New York


Island hopping is one way to see New York, but you shouldn’t overlook the mainland. New York is a beautiful state with bustling cities and sleepy villages tucked into New England’s countryside. Here are a few of our favorite spots on the Mainland.

Hudson Valley


Experience a new level of country living at the summer homes of America’s wealthiest families. With gorgeous grounds and splendid architecture, the Hudson Valley is a feast for the eyes.


  • Storm King Art Center: Immerse yourself in the beauty of art and nature at this 500-acre outdoor sculpture garden.
  • Vanderbilt Mansion Gardens: See the height of early 20th-century landscaping in these gardens designed by the most notable landscape architects and horticulturists of the era.
  • Lyndhurst Mansion: Live out your royal fantasies in this Gothic Revival estate with lush grounds and a dominating presence overlooking the Hudson River.
  • Locust Grove Historic Site: Want a taste of Italian architecture? This Italianate mansion, once belonging to Samual Morse, delivers along with 200 acres of landscaped grounds and walking trails.
  • Bannerman Castle: You don’t have to go to Europe to see castles, thanks to this building on Pollepel Island. The remote location only adds to its charms, as the castle is only reachable by seasonal boat tours and hiking trails.


Aerial view of a lush green park with buildings, a circular driveway, and a city skyline in the distance.

The Bronx


The Bronx is a part of New York City, but like all boroughs of New York, it has its own vibe. The Bronx is home to some larger-than-life New York attractions that the islands could never contain. Here are a few worth mentioning.


  • Bronx Zoo: This world-renowned zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country, complete with outdoor exhibits, interactive experiences, and gorgeous habitats.
  • New York Botanical Garden: A tribute to all things green, this garden is a living museum that houses interesting plants (like the infamous Corpse Flower) from around the globe.
  • Yankee Stadium: Catch a game, take a tour, or simply soak in sports history at one of the most iconic sports stadiums in the world.
  • Pelham Bay Park:  If you like Central Park, you’ll love Pelham Bay Park. It’s bigger than Central Park and has amazing amenities like beaches, trails, golf courses, and historic spots to explore.
  • Edgar Allan Poe Cottage: Visit the final home of one of America’s most famous writers. Learn about his work and about his time in New York.


Sleepy Hollow


Yes, the Sleepy Hollow from Washington Irving’s ghost story “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” is real, and it’s in New York. If you love history, folklore, and beautiful New England villages, you’ll love Sleepy Hollow. Here are some “must-sees” around town. 


  • Old Dutch Church and  Burial Ground: Start your folklore tour with a little history at the 340-year-old church and 3-acre cemetery.
  • Headless Horseman Bridge: Snap some pictures at this picturesque bridge, a spot made famous by Irving’s tale. 
  • Kykuit: This majestic property was home to four generations of the Rockefeller family.  Today, you can tour the impressive homes and stroll miles of scenic carriage roads. 
  • Philipsburg Manor: Learn more about the Colonial-era farming at this restored farm, mill, and trading center.


Stone chapel with green door in a cemetery during autumn. Yellow and orange foliage frame the structure.
Aerial view of the New Jersey State House building with a gold dome, surrounded by urban cityscape and river.

New Jersey


New Jersey gets a bad wrap, but the Garden State does have charms of its own. While our hearts will always belong to New York, we still encourage you to visit our neighbors across the river. Here are some cities worth the trip!

New Jersey City


Just across the Hudson, easy to reach by train or ferry, New Jersey City is perfect for a quick trip within sight of New York. Some of its top attractions include:



  • Liberty State Park: Open green spaces with sweeping views of the Statue of Liberty.
  • Empty Sky Memorial: Pay your respects at this touching tribute to New Jersey residents lost on 9/11.
  • Liberty Science Center: Play with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and engage in fun learning experiences for all ages.


Brick path leading to a city skyline, lined with lampposts and trees, under a cloudy blue sky.
Cityscape with river, buildings, and a skyline under a cloudy blue sky.

Hoboken, New Jersey


For a quieter, more laid-back vibe, check out Hoboken. This walkable waterfront city has a relaxing, jazzy vibe similar to its most famous resident, Frank Sinatra.


  • Frank Sinatra Statue: Pay tribute to Hoboken’s most famous native son at his memorial statue.
  • Hoboken Historical Museum: Learn about the city’s industrial and cultural past at this intimate local museum.
  • Pier Park: Relax by the water, enjoy green spaces, and take in Manhattan views from a distance. 


Atlantic City


Think of Las Vegas, but replace the desert heat with ocean spray, and you get Atlantic City. This lively coastal city is the perfect spot for anyone looking to blow off steam. Here are some ways you can indulge.



  • Atlantic City Boardwalk: Walk down this historic oceanside promenade lined with shops, eateries, and arcades.
  • Casinos: Try your luck or catch a live show at one of the A.C.’s nine Casinos.
  • Steel Pier: Get your thrill at this beachfront amusement pier with classic rides and ocean breezes.
  • Absecon Lighthouse: Take some photos from the top of New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse.


Aerial view of a beach with a Ferris wheel, boardwalk, and city buildings under a blue sky.
A brick building with a sign that says ' incentra village house ' on it.

Stay at Incentra Village House

For an authentic New York Experience, book your stay at Incentra Village Guest House. Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, our hotel is the perfect central location for all your New York adventures. 


Spend your days exploring Manhattan and the nearby areas, then come back to relax in your private suite. At Incentra, you can enjoy: air conditioning, in-room fireplaces, antique furniture, private bathrooms, Wifi, and more! 


Get the full New York Experience when you book today!

About the Author


Bozhidar Bachvarov (aka “Boz”) is the manager of Incentra Village Guest House in historic West Village. As a city local and a frequent traveler, Boz knows how to give guests an authentic New York experience.