Looking to make a quick excursion out of New York City this fall? If you’re limited on time, these seven day-trips out of the city are the perfect thing. From foliage cruises up the Hudson River Valley to apple orchards that are just right for the picking, there’s so much to be seen and explored just outside of New York City’s borders.
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Masker Orchards (Warwick, NY)
Fall just doesn’t feel complete without at least one day spent picking apples at one of New York’s beloved orchards. Masker Orchards, located a quick 60 mile drive from New York City in the Hudson Valley region, tops our list of nearby farms. This 200 acre orchard opens on September 3rd, with apple picking lasting through early November, so don’t hesitate to plan your trip and take part in the fun. 45 Ball Rd., 845-986-1058, maskers.com
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Duck Walk Vineyards (Southold, NY)
Make the drive east to Long Island and make sure you bring a cleansed palette with you, because Duck Walk Vineyards is the perfect way to spend a cozy fall day. Sip on award winning wines that come from 30 lusting acres of Sauvignon Blanc grape vines. The entire Duck Walk Vineyards encompasses 140 acres of breathtaking views and some of the best wine tasting on the North Fork of Long Island. Additional location in Water Mill, NY. 44535 Main Rd., 631-765-3500, duckwalk.com
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Circle Line’s Bear Mountain Cruise (Bear Mountain, NY)
If you can’t get your hands on a car for your day-long get-away, not to worry. Circle Line hosts a Bear Mountain Cruise that will take you up the Hudson River and out of New York. From September 24th to November 6th, you can hop aboard this “leaf peepin’, wurst eatin’, polka dancin’” cruise and make your way up to Bear Mountain. With three hours dedicated to Bear Mountain alone, and an additional two and a half hours spend cruising, this is an all-day affair! Pier 83 W. 42nd St., 212-563-3200, circleline42.com
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Mohonk Mountain House (New Paltz, NY)
Mohonk Mountain House, located in the Hudson Valley, is the type of resort that people dream about, ourselves included! However, even if you don’t have the time or budget to stay overnight at this lush resort, that doesn’t mean that you can’t spend the day hiking around the lake, enjoying a buffet-style lunch and dinner, riding horses in the stables, and strolling on the impressive dock. Check out their Day Guest packages to get the most out of your time visiting! 1000 Mountain Rest Rd., 888-976-2943, mohonk.com
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Old Westbury Gardens (Old Westbury, NY)
The Old Westbury Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and with good reason. The Charles II-style mansion was built in 1906, and you can find it nicely nested amongst 200 acres of formal gardens, forests, lakes, and ponds. As for inside the house? You’ll find English antiques and artwork that date back to the early twentieth century. If you’re looking for some kid-friendly fun in October, make sure you get tickets to the Rise of the Jack O’Lanterns, where you’ll see over 5,000 hand-carved pumpkins light up the premises! 71 Old Westbury Rd., 516-333-0048, oldwestburygardens.org
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Water Taxi’s Fall Foliage Cruises (Hudson River Valley, NY)
New York Water Taxi’s Fall Foliage Cruises provide one of the best ways to take in scenic East Coast foliage. These cruises travel along the Hudson, taking you deep into the Hudson River Valley where you’ll get to enjoy eyefuls of reds, oranges, and yellows during peak foliage season. Cruises include lunch and wine tastings, a live tour guide, raffle prizes, and complimentary cider, coffee, and tea. Pier 16, South Street Seaport, 19 Fulton St., 212-742-1969, nywatertaxi.com
Best of NYC Fall Day Trips: Asbury Park Boardwalk (Asbury Park, NJ)
From the Asbury Splash Park and the Silverball Museum to the Paramount Theatre and the The Stone Pony, Ashbury Park Boardwalk is full of both fun and surprises. Take advantage of New Jersey Transit to make your way down to this gem nestled along the New Jersey coastline. The culinary scene is just as enticing as the boardwalk itself, with Asbury Oyster Bar, Betty’s Sweet and Salty, and Hoagito’s making for some prime, beachside dining. Ocean Ave. between Asbury and Sunset Ave., 732-897-6500, apboardwalk.com
