Last Minute New York City Day Trip Ideas
There is still time this summer to plan an exciting day trip, excursion or weekend getaway! Here are some fun last minute New York City day trip ideas to get you started. All of these places are easy to find within New York City so what are you waiting for?
Governors Island
Governors Island is just a short ferry ride away from Lower Manhattan. Governors Island was once a fort for the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War. It is a lot of fun just exploring the island and seeing some of the remnants from the revolutionary war era. In addition, you can rent bikes or kayaks and you can try some of the delicious food options on the island.
Central Park
Central Park is an oasis right in the heart of New York City. There are a bunch of breathtaking picnic spots and walking paths throughout the park. There is also a castle, a zoo, Strawberry Fields and a huge lake where you can rent boats to explore. Central Park is an invaluable resource for both New Yorkers and visitors to the city and you should definitely take advantage of it.
Coney Island
Traveling to Coney Island is a breeze since it is accessible by the subway. Coney Island is famous for Luna Park, the Cyclone roller coaster, the beach, Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, the Brooklyn Cyclones and the list can go on and on! It is fun for the whole family.
City Island
It is hard to believe a place like City Island exists in the Bronx. It has been often described as a small New England fishing town. In City Island, you can find amazing seafood restaurants, the City Island Nautical Museum and three yacht clubs. You can take the Bx29, BxM8 bus or the City Island Seaside Trolley to get here.
Chinatown and Little Italy
You can spend a whole day exploring Chinatown and Little Italy. There are plenty of interesting places with interesting stories and there are a ton of great places for dining. You can start your foodie adventure with Ahoy New York’s food tour of Chinatown and Little Italy where you can try some of the best dishes that Chinatown and Little Italy have to offer while learning more about what makes these two neighborhoods unique.
The Rockaways
It is easy to see how the Ramones were inspired to write one of their biggest hits, Rockaway Beach here. It is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches that is still accessible by the subway (or ferry) and it is renowned as one of the best surfing spots in New York City.
Splish Splash
Finally Splish Splash is a water park in Long Island that is accessible by the LIRR (Long Island Railroad). There are 30 rides, water slides and pools to enjoy so it is easy to see why Splish Splash was ranked by the Travel Channel as the third best water park in the United States. But you have to hurry if you want to check it out this year, it closes on September 4.