Best Day Trips From NYC

The 11 Best Day Trips from NYC for Disabled Travelers (and Everyone Else)

Grand Central Station, NYC where every great journey begins

One of my favorite things about living in or just visiting New York City is how easy it is to escape it. Don’t get me wrong, I love the buzz of the city, but sometimes you need a little fresh air, open space, or, let’s be honest, a decent view that doesn’t include a guy yelling at a pigeon. Lucky for us, NYC is surrounded by charming towns, scenic hikes, beachy vibes, and history-soaked spots that are perfect for a quick one day trip. Whether New York City is home or just a home base, and you're craving nature, culture, or just a change of pace, here are the best day trips from NYC that are totally worth hopping a train (or ferry, or Zipcar) for.

Cold Spring, NY

1. Cold Spring, NY

Best for: Charming streets, boutique browsing, Hudson River views
Visiting Cold Spring from NYC feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie, but with better coffee and fewer plot twists. Just a 90-minute train ride up the Hudson on the Metro-North, this little town is the perfect solo day trip when you need to swap sirens for birdsong. The main street is lined with antique shops, indie bookstores, and cafés that don’t rush you, even when you’re lingering with a second scone and a journal full of half-baked thoughts. Hike Breakneck Ridge if you're feeling bold (and packed snacks), or just stroll the riverfront and let the stillness do its thing. Cold Spring is where I go to exhale, reset, and romanticize my life with a view.

The Cold Spring Metro-North station is ADA-compliant, providing a smooth journey from New York City. While the village's historic Main Street features picturesque shops and eateries, it's important to note that not all storefronts are wheelchair-accessible; a survey indicated that approximately 42% of 66 storefronts may present challenges for those with mobility needs.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Hudson Highlands Fjord Trail is designed to be inclusive, adhering to Accessibility Guidelines for Federal Outdoor Developed Areas (AGODA). Additionally, the West Point Foundry Preserve offers ADA-accessible trails, allowing visitors to explore the rich industrial history amidst serene natural surroundings. Cultural sites like the Putnam History Museum are also ADA-accessible, ensuring that history buffs can delve into the region's past without hindrance.

Beacon Falls

2. Beacon, NY

Best for: Art lovers and indie vibes
Beacon is where creativity lives. The massive modern art museum DIA: Beacon is the crown jewel here, and the town’s main street is dotted with galleries, vintage shops, and cozy cafés that welcome solo travelers with a smile and solid Wi-Fi.

Beacon, NY, is what happens when a sleepy river town takes an art school sabbatical and never looks back. Just 90 minutes from NYC by Metro-North, it’s got that perfect balance of grit and charm—converted factories turned into galleries, indie coffee shops with oat milk everything, and a main street that practically begs you to wander. It’s creative, low-key, and just weird enough to feel like a retreat for the traveler who wants inspiration with a side of espresso.

The Beacon Metro-North station is fully ADA-compliant, featuring ramps and elevators to ensure smooth arrivals and departures. Once in town, the free Beacon Loop Bus offers wheelchair-accessible transportation, connecting key spots like Main Street, Mount Beacon, and the renowned Dia Beacon art museum. Dia Beacon itself is a model of accessibility, boasting smooth concrete floors, elevators to all levels, and accessible restrooms, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Dining options such as Café Amarcord and Meyer's Olde Dutch Food & Such are wheelchair-friendly, ensuring a comfortable culinary experience. For those requiring additional transit assistance, Dutchess County Public Transit offers ADA-compliant services, including the Dial-A-Ride program. In Beacon, accessibility and adventure go hand in hand, making it an ideal destination.

3. Storm King Art Center

Best for: Sculpture meets nature therapy
This open-air museum of massive modern sculptures is set across 500 rolling acres in the Hudson Valley. It’s peaceful, surreal, and completely absorbing. Pack snacks and spend a day wandering through giant works of art.

Just an hour north of NYC, this 500-acre outdoor museum in New Windsor, NY, is a dream for solo travelers craving space, silence, and sculpture that makes you feel small in the best way. You’ll wander through meadows and hills dotted with monumental works by legends like Alexander Calder, Maya Lin, and Richard Serra, all perfectly placed to catch the light and stir your soul. It’s not just a museum—it’s a meditative experience. Pack a picnic, wear comfy shoes, and let the landscape guide you. Storm King is open seasonally, so check their website for dates and tickets. Trust me, it’s worth every step.​

For visitors with mobility needs, Storm King provides a wheelchair-accessible tram that loops through the grounds, allowing easy hop-on and hop-off access at various stops . Manual wheelchairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Museum Store . Additionally, a wheelchair-accessible cart service can be reserved to reach specific artworks located in areas with challenging terrain . While the landscape includes paved and gravel paths, some areas may have steep inclines, so it's advisable to consult the visitor map for the most accessible routes . Accessible restrooms are situated near the entrance, with additional accessible portable restrooms throughout the site .

Independence Mall, Philadelphia, PA

4. Philadelphia, PA

Best for: A dose of history and good eats
Hop on Amtrak or a Bolt Bus and you’re in Philly in under two hours. Visit the Liberty Bell, stuff your face with some fine dining, or just dine fine on some cheesesteaks or vegan hoagies, and stroll the streets of Old City. It’s like time-travel, but with better snacks.

Start your day at Reading Terminal Market, where the aroma of fresh pretzels and roast pork sandwiches fills the air. Wander through Old City to see the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, then stroll down Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in the U.S. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Philadelphia Museum of Art—not just for the masterpieces inside, but also for the iconic "Rocky Steps" out front. For a touch of whimsy, visit the Magic Gardens on South Street, a mosaic wonderland that feels like stepping into a kaleidoscope. As evening falls, explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Fishtown and Northern Liberties, where indie boutiques and cozy cafes await. Philadelphia's rich history, diverse culture, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for those exploring on their own.​

The Liberty Bell

The city's major attractions, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that everyone can experience the birthplace of American democracy. For convenient transportation, the Philly PHLASH Downtown Loop offers ADA-compliant buses that connect key sites like the Franklin Institute, Philadelphia Zoo, and Reading Terminal Market. Additionally, the Big Bus Tours provide wheelchair-accessible hop-on-hop-off services, covering 27 stops near popular attractions. Dining and lodging options across the city are increasingly accommodating, with many establishments offering step-free entrances and accessible restrooms. While some historic buildings may present challenges, the city's commitment to inclusivity ensures that with a bit of planning, solo travelers using wheelchairs can navigate Philadelphia comfortably and confidently.​

Bear Mountain State Park

5. Bear Mountain State Park

Best for: Scenic hikes and lake views
Need a nature reset? Bear Mountain offers hiking, lake kayaking, and even a merry-go-round (yes, really). The views over the Hudson River are worth every step, and if you time it right, you’ll catch the fall foliage at full drama-queen level.

Just about an hour north of NYC, this 5,000-acre escape offers everything from serene lakeside strolls to challenging hikes with panoramic Hudson Valley views. The Perkins Memorial Tower at the summit provides a breathtaking 360-degree vista that makes every step worthwhile. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the park features a charming carousel, a Trailside Museum and Zoo, and ample picnic spots perfect for solo reflection or journaling. Whether you're in the mood for adventure or tranquility, Bear Mountain delivers a rejuvenating retreat that feels worlds away from the urban hustle.​

The park features the All Persons Trail, a 0.75-mile ADA-compliant path composed of crushed gravel, offering a gentle route with rewarding views of the Hudson River and surrounding landscapes . Additionally, the 1.4-mile paved loop around Hessian Lake provides a serene and accessible experience, ideal for those using wheelchairs or strollers . Facilities such as the Trailside Museums and Zoo are equipped with ramps and accessible restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for all . Bear Mountain State Park's commitment to inclusivity makes it an excellent choice for a rejuvenating and accessible day trip.​

Montauk lighthouse, Montauk, NY

6. Montauk, NY

Best for: Beachy vibes and solo reflection
At the very tip of Long Island, Montauk feels like the edge of the world, in the best way. It's a bit of a haul (2.5–3 hours by LIRR or car), but the beaches, lighthouse, and coastal hikes are absolutely worth it. Bring a book, a beach towel, and your most introspective playlist. It’s perfect for those summer day trips from NYC.

Montauk, New York, affectionately known as "The End," is a solo traveler's haven where the Atlantic's vastness meets the charm of a coastal village. Begin your journey at the historic Montauk Point Lighthouse, New York State's oldest lighthouse, offering panoramic ocean views that are both humbling and inspiring. For nature enthusiasts, the trails at Shadmoor State Park provide serene walks along dramatic cliffs, while Camp Hero State Park offers a blend of rugged coastline and intriguing military history. After a day of exploration, unwind at the Montauk Brewing Company, where local craft beers capture the spirit of the town. Whether you're catching a sunrise over the ocean or savoring fresh seafood at a dockside eatery, Montauk's blend of natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal retreat for those seeking solitude and rejuvenation.​

The Montauk Point Lighthouse Museum provides wheelchair access to its interior exhibits, allowing visitors to delve into maritime history, though the climb to the top remains inaccessible due to stairs. For those seeking outdoor experiences, Montauk Point State Park features nature trails and stunning ocean views; however, some paths may present challenges for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain. Accommodations like Montauk Manor offer ADA-compliant rooms equipped with accessible bathrooms, roll-in showers, and entry ramps, ensuring a comfortable stay. While Montauk's natural landscapes are a significant draw, it's advisable for travelers using wheelchairs to plan ahead, as certain areas may have limited accessibility.

Graveyard in Sleepy Hollow, NY

7. Sleepy Hollow, NY

Best for: Spooky history with a dash of charm
Yes, that Sleepy Hollow. This one day trip from NYC is just 45 minutes by train. It’s got colonial cemeteries, the Headless Horseman bridge, and surprisingly lovely riverfront views. Visit in the fall for peak Halloween vibes, or any time of year for a quirky, historical escape.

Sleepy Hollow is where history and legend intertwine, offering travelers a captivating blend of the eerie and the enchanting. Just a short train ride from NYC, this Hudson Valley village invites you to stroll through the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, where Washington Irving rests among centuries-old tombstones and towering trees. Explore the Old Dutch Church, dating back to 1685, and imagine the tales that inspired "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow." Philipsburg Manor offers a glimpse into 18th-century life, complete with a working gristmill and costumed interpreters. For a touch of nature, Kingsland Point Park provides serene Hudson River views and a peaceful retreat. Whether you're drawn by folklore or the fall foliage, Sleepy Hollow offers a solo adventure rich in story and scenery.​

At Philipsburg Manor, visitors will find accessible parking and restrooms at the Visitor Center. While the grist mill, barn, and first floor of the Manor House are accessible via ramps, it's important to note that some areas have uneven gravel paths, and the second floor of the Manor House is not wheelchair accessible . Washington Irving’s Sunnyside provides accessible parking and restrooms, with the grounds and first floor of the cottage being wheelchair accessible. However, reaching the site involves navigating a steep, graded ramp and a pebble path . For outdoor enthusiasts, the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery offers paved roads suitable for wheelchairs, though some historic sections may present challenges due to uneven terrain. Additionally, the nearby Old Croton Aqueduct Trail features flat, hard-packed surfaces, making it a pleasant option for a scenic, accessible stroll.

Princeton University, Princeton, NJ

8. Princeton, NJ

Best for: Ivy League ambiance and garden strolls
Take NJ Transit to Princeton and pretend you’re in a movie about brilliant introverts. The campus is gorgeous, the town is walkable, and the coffee shops are full of students writing manifestos (or probably just doing math). Perfect for a relaxed, intellectual solo day.

Princeton, New Jersey, is that rare gem of a town where intellect meets indie charm—and the sidewalks are lined with enough cozy cafés and ivy-covered walls to make your inner bookworm swoon. Just a quick NJ Transit ride from NYC, it’s the perfect solo day trip for when you’re craving a little peace, a little prestige, and maybe a pumpkin scone or two. Strolling through the Princeton University campus feels like walking through a cinematic dream—gothic spires, secret gardens, and the kind of hush that makes you want to journal your way through a quiet afternoon. The town itself is delightfully walkable, full of quirky boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants that don’t blink when you ask for a table for one. It’s academic, it’s artsy, and it’s exactly the kind of low-key magic travelers live for. For an extra treat, be sure to stop at The Bent Spoon, one of the best ice cream shops in New Jersey.

Grounds For Sculpture

I also highly recommend stopping by the nearby Grounds For Sculpture museum. It’s one of my favorite day trips from NYC. This quirky outdoor sculpture museum is great for taking cool Instagram shots and appreciating the beauty of art and nature.

Princeton's sidewalks and public spaces are increasingly accommodating, with many shops and restaurants featuring step-free entrances. Princeton University has made significant strides in enhancing campus accessibility. The university provides detailed digital guides for over 200 buildings, offering information on accessible entrances, restrooms, and elevators, which can be accessed via the Princeton Campus Map app. Additionally, the TigerAccess service offers complimentary curb-to-curb shuttle rides for individuals with mobility needs, ensuring easy navigation across the campus. Cultural venues like the McCarter Theatre Center are committed to inclusivity, offering wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and large-print programs.

Downtown New Haven, CT

9. New Haven, CT

Best for: Pizza and Yale-level inspiration
Two hours north by train from NYC, New Haven, New England delivers history, architecture, and what some (me) might call the best pizza on the East Coast. Tour the Yale campus, visit the art museum, and try both Frank Pepe’s and Sally’s to settle the great pizza debate for yourself.

Begin your day at the Yale University Art Gallery, where admission is free and the collections span from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. Stroll through the historic Yale campus, admiring the Gothic architecture and vibrant student life. For lunch, indulge in a slice of New Haven's famed apizza at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, a local institution renowned for its coal-fired pies. In the afternoon, explore the lush landscapes of East Rock Park, offering panoramic views of the city and Long Island Sound. As evening approaches, consider joining a haunted walking tour to uncover the city's spooky legends and hidden histories. New Haven's blend of cultural richness and accessible charm makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a fulfilling solo adventure.

The city’s historic Union Station is fully ADA-compliant, featuring elevators and accessible platforms, ensuring a smooth arrival for all visitors. Once in town, CTtransit buses, including the free Union Station Shuttle, are equipped with wheelchair lifts and kneeling features, facilitating easy navigation throughout the city.​

Cultural attractions like the Yale University Art Gallery and the Yale Center for British Art offer barrier-free access, allowing visitors to explore world-class collections without hindrance. For those interested in outdoor experiences, the Farmington Canal Heritage Trail provides a paved, flat path ideal for wheelchair users, offering a scenic route through the city. Additionally, East Rock Park features accessible roads leading to panoramic views of New Haven and the surrounding areas.​

Sag Harbor

10. The Hamptons (off-season!)

Best for: Beach towns without the summer crowds
If you want to see the Hamptons without the reality TV energy, go in the shoulder seasons. On this one-day trip, you’ll get empty beaches, cute shops, and quiet charm that feels a world away from Manhattan—even if it’s just a couple of hours by train or car.

Visiting the Hamptons in the off-season is like crashing a glamorous party after everyone’s gone home—and realizing that’s when it gets good. Without the summer crowds, traffic, or sky-high rental rates, the East End becomes peaceful, charming, and downright cozy. I love wandering empty beaches with a hot coffee in hand, the Atlantic wind whipping around like it’s got secrets to tell. Farm stands still have fresh pies, art galleries are blissfully quiet, and locals actually have time to chat. It’s all the charm without the chaos, the kind of solo getaway that feels like a deep exhale. If you’ve ever wanted to experience the real soul of the Hamptons, this is the time. Sweater weather suits it beautifully.

East Hampton Town ensures inclusivity with ADA-accessible multi-user trails at locations like Wainscott Green and Buckskill Meadow Preserve, providing smooth paths through picturesque landscapes. Beaches such as Atlantic Avenue and Indian Wells are equipped with beach mats and offer beach wheelchairs during lifeguard hours, facilitating easier access to the shoreline. For cultural enrichment, the Parrish Art Museum in Water Mill is fully wheelchair-accessible, with available wheelchairs and assistance from parking to entrance upon request. Transportation is also accommodating; the Hampton Jitney provides lift-equipped buses with designated wheelchair spaces, ensuring comfortable travel to and from the region.

11. North Fork, NY

One of the best NYC day trips, North Fork, Long Island, is like the cooler, quieter cousin of the Hamptons—the one who grows her own herbs, drinks natural wine, and never yells into her phone. It’s all rolling vineyards, farm stands bursting with tomatoes that taste like summer, and sleepy seaside towns where time moves just a little slower. As a solo traveler, it’s heaven: bikeable backroads, oyster bars with counter seating, and enough wine tasting rooms to make you feel very sophisticated (or at least very relaxed). It’s rustic charm with a coastal breeze, and only a couple of hours from NYC. Yes, please.

Just a couple of hours from NYC, it feels like a different world: all windswept vineyards, farm stands bursting with seasonal produce, and charming towns that invite you to slow down and savor. Start your day with a visit to Croteaux Vineyards, a rosé-only haven that feels like a secret garden. Then, meander through Greenport, where you can browse indie boutiques, enjoy fresh seafood, and maybe even catch a ride on the antique carousel. Don't miss the chance to pick your own berries at local farms or indulge in a slice of pie from Briermere Farms—trust me, it's worth it. Whether you're sipping wine by the Sound or watching the sunset over the bay, North Fork offers a serene escape that's perfect for travelers looking to recharge.

Wineries such as Osprey's Dominion, Bedell Cellars, and Jason’s Vineyards provide accessible parking, ramps, and spacious tasting rooms, ensuring a comfortable wine-tasting experience. In Greenport, the village's walkable layout features curb cuts and accessible sidewalks, with accommodations like The Menhaden Hotel offering wheelchair-friendly amenities, including elevator access and ADA-compliant rooms. For those seeking outdoor adventures, the Greenport Conservation Area boasts the "Access for All" trail—a one-mile, wheelchair-friendly path through serene natural landscapes. With its combination of accessible attractions and scenic beauty, North Fork provides a rejuvenating retreat for travelers of all abilities.​

The highway back to NYC from NJ

Final Thoughts: Day Trips Are Self-Care

Solo day trips from NYC are my favorite way to hit the reset button without committing to a full-on vacation. Whether you’re chasing art, nature, or just a really good pastry, there’s something deeply healing about getting out of the city and into a place where the pace slows down and the scenery shifts.

If you’re planning your first solo trip, or just need inspiration for your next escape, check out my favorite tools:

• Rome2Rio for transit options

• AllTrails for hiking routes

• Atlas Obscura read about weird and wonderful finds

• Solo Female Travelers Network for inspo and connection

And remember—your adventure doesn’t need to be far to be absolutely unforgettable.