Best Road Trips From New York

If you live in New York or just visiting the big Apple, it is an amazing place to get out and about and explore the northeast corner of the United States. Surprisingly close to many of America's most famous cities and neighbor States, it's the ideal base for a road trip.

Top Road Trip Destinations From New York

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Our rankings are based only on editorial opinion, not any commercial consideration.
The rolling hills of the Catskills around Pepacton Reservoir at sunset in upstate New York

🚗 230 miles ⏱️ 5 hours

Escape from New York to the tranquil Catskills, where you can enjoy nature, outdoor activities, and the beauty of the mountainous region. If you want to lose yourself in natural vistas (without actually getting lost; that's what we are here for after all!), visit via Callicoon.

This route weaves through the beautiful Delaware Water Gap, the artistic town of Narrowsburg, and the charming community of Callicoon, providing a glimpse of the Delaware River and a taste of the local culture..

Capitol building in the background with close-up of colorful tulips on a sunny day

🚗 225 miles ⏱️ 4 hours

Travel from New York to Washington DC to explore the nation's capital, steeped in history and politics, with countless museums and monuments including iconic Lincoln Memorial and the White House.

Make a pitstop in the incredible city of Philadelphia, a great option for a first overnight stop. Once you leave you can expect scenic stop offs at Maryland and exciting city of Baltimore, with its gorgeous harbor and renowned seafood.

Bass Harbor Lighthouse at sunset Acadia National Park, Maine USA

🚗 480 miles ⏱️ 8 hours

Embark on a scenic drive from New York to Acadia National Park, and you can enjoy picturesque views, charming towns, and the rugged beauty of one of the nation's most beloved national parks.

Make this journey coastal bound and you can enjoy the Maine shoreline, offering rugged beaches and port towns en route. We suggest stopping at popular Portland and nearby Cape Elizabeth, in this beautiful part of Maine.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA downtown city skyline at night.
4.

New York to Philadelphia

🚗 95 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 50 minutes

Take a short trip from New York to Philadelphia to discover the rich heritage, with renowned landmarks including Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Worked up an appetite? Then don't leave without trying the legendary Philly cheese steak.

As you make your way stop off at popular New Brunswick, characterised by Victorian architecture, museums, and the bustling Saint John City Market.

Neon signs for music venues in Nashville, lit up brightly along the street at night

🚗 10,235 miles ⏱️ 18 hours

Drive from New York to Nashville via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and you can marvel at jaw-dropping landscapes as you venture to the heart of country music.

Although there are quicker routes to take, this stunning route takes you through delights including Alligator Back Overlook, Pisgah National Forest, Craven Gap Trail and to Asheville where you can always spend the night.

Keuka Lake, The Finger Lakes, New York, USA surrounded by green trees during the summertime.

🚗 280 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 20 minutes

Explore the serene Finger Lakes region from New York, famous for its wine country, stunning lakes, and beautiful landscapes. If you feel like relaxing in the vineyards then this is a great journey, where you can enjoy the world's tastiest wines along the way.

As well as enjoying a tipple or two, there are natural gems like Watkins Glen State Park as well as the pretty shores of Seneca and Cayuga Lakes to enjoy en route.

Chicago River

🚗 950 miles ⏱️ 15 hours, 30 minutes

Journey from New York to Chicago and it's a road trip packed with a real urban vibe and plenty of cultural landmarks throughout two of America's largest cities.

If you are looking for even more impressive attractions, then if you have a little extra time, you might like to include Detroit on your route. It doesn't add many miles but packs a punch, and you can see more of Lake Erie and Lake Michigan.

Fall colors on a pond in the Poconos Mountains in Pennsylvania
8.

New York to The Poconos Mountains

🚗 122 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 15 minutes

Escape New York for a retreat to The Poconos Mountains, a road trip to somewhere slightly more scenic and outdoorsy and just the antidote to the bustling city crowds.

Before you do reach sanctuary though, check out Detroit, the home of Motown, as you pass by. There are plenty of great place to visit in the day like Cultural Center Historic District, and then come night it's bursting with entertainment.

Water streaming off a rocky ledge leading into a valley valley fill with vibrant fall foliage color
9.

New York to Woodstock

🚗 108 miles ⏱️ 2 hours

Journey from New York to Woodstock, a town synonymous with the spirit of the '60s and famous for its lively art and music scene.

About halfway along this road trip you'll find Newburgh, which has a collection of 19th-century architecture and combination of Greek Revival, Federal, and Victorian styles. Prepare to be impressed before you set off again.

A misty day on the river at Seneca Falls, New York, with old buildings to one side
10.

New York to Seneca Falls

🚗 266 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 45 minutes

Travel from New York to Seneca Falls, known as the birthplace of the American women's rights movement and characterised by wide streets, old houses and antiquated storefronts. It also sits on the edge of Seneca Lake, the largest of the Finger Lakes.

Conveniently located for a visit to the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge, a haven for migratory birds, which even the most unenthusiastic of spotters will get sucked into.

Miami Beach, South Beach, Florida, USA.

🚗 1,300 miles ⏱️ 19 hours

Embark on a long drive from New York to Miami, and you are in for a monumental experience! You'll pass through eight states and national parks, and experience some of the most historic parts of the USA along the way.

There are countless places to stop off at as you make this epic journey, with city sites in Philadelphia, Baltimore or Washington D.C., and sunny shores in Orlando and Tampa, to name just some.

Montreal, Canada with the city skyline in the background and a yacht in the foreground in the Lachine Canal taken on a sunny day.

🚗 418 miles ⏱️ 7 hours, 55 minutes

Explore the cultural and scenic highlights from New York to Montreal, enjoying the beautiful landscapes and rich French-Canadian culture of Montreal.

During this stunning journey we suggest stopping off at Slide Mountain Wilderness, and short detour to Hunter, before reaching the Catskills, a haven of natural beauty and many outdoor activities.

Saratoga Springs, NY, USA with a view of a picnic area by a brook at the Saratoga Spa State Park.

🚗 270 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 50 minutes

Take a scenic drive from New York to Saratoga Springs, a historic town known for its horse racing track, mineral springs, and charming downtown.

We recommend stopping off as you reach the heart of the Catskill Mountains at Sundown Wild Forest. Here there are lush forests, rugged terrains, and ideal for hiking and camping.

Fishing Pier at Sunrise at Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA. Virginia Beach, a coastal city in southeastern Virginia, lies where the Chesapeake Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

🚗 420 miles ⏱️ 9 hours

Drive with the wind in your hair from New York to Virginia Beach, enjoying the scenic coastal views and beachfront attractions along the Eastern Seaboard.

The perfect place for some grown-up fun is a stop at Atlantic City, where stunning beaches also greet you. Not enough? Then continue south and you'll also pass Ocean City for even more amusement.

Orlando, Florida, USA with a view of the famous Universal Globe at Universal Studios Florida theme park on a sunny day with palm trees in the background.

🚗 1,100 miles ⏱️ 16 hours

You can be sure of a memorable journey from New York to Orlando, to reach the heart of Florida's entertainment and theme park capital.

During this journey, you will pass the several amazing historic cities that are well worth visiting, including Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington D.C., and Charleston.

A wild horse grazing at sunset in front of a marsh on Chincoteague Island
16.

New York to Chincoteague Island

🚗 274 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 50 minutes

Travel from New York to Chincoteague Island for a peaceful getaway, famous for its wild ponies and beautiful natural reserves ideal for bird watching and relaxing by the sea.

Just before arriving at Chincoteague Island make a final stop at Redden State Forest, a stunning nature spot with trails for hiking and horseback riding.

The main gateway entrance to Hersheypark, a family theme park situated in Hershey, Pennsylvania.
17.

New York to Hershey

🚗 162 miles ⏱️ 3 hours

Head from New York to Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Sweetest Place on Earth, a dream weekend getaway for those with a sweet tooth! Make sure to visit the Chocolate World factory-shop to make your own chocolate bar as a souvenir.

En route to Hershey the towns of Bethlehem, to wander the historic steel mills, and then Allentown, packed with museums, parks, and the famous Dorney Park, are both worth a visit.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA Downtown Skyline Aerial

🚗 1,410 miles ⏱️ 25 hours

Journey from New York to New Orleans via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, and you'll be leaving the urban buzz of the Big Apple, to join the musical extravaganza of the Big Easy.

There are so many great potential stops of this journey. Some of our favorites include Shenandoah National Park and Nantahala National Forest, Atlanta and Alabama.

Sunset at the Southampton beach on Long Island, New York
19.

New York to Southampton Beach

🚗 99 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 10 minutes

Escape the city and head to Southampton Beach from New York for a relaxing beach day, where you can enjoy the sun, sand, and Hamptons vibe. It's repeatedly been voted one of the best in the country.

Before you arrive for some R&R in Southampton Beach, consider some of the other sites in Long Island you'll pass. We particularly like the Long Island Aquarium, Riverhead, and unusual The Big Duck statue close by.

People kayaking on a sunny day with a view of Toronto near the Toronto Islands

🚗 500 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 30 minutes

Drive from New York to Toronto and you can expect a winding route brimming with beautiful landscapes, as you head to one of Canada's largest and most vibrant cities.

If you are more interested in visiting the cities of upstate New York then make this trip via Syracuse, where you'll also pass famous sites including Erie Canal Museum and the historic city of Rochester.

Boston skyline in sunny summer day, view from harbor on downtown, Massachusetts, USA

🚗 360 miles ⏱️ 6 hours, 35 minutes

Explore the scenic coastal route from New York to Boston, enjoying stunning views and the rich history of the American Northeast.

As you pass alongside the coast one of the first stops past New Haven is Nehantic State Forest. Cape Cod is also a great place to hang out, and if you have the time then catch a ferry over to Martha's Vineyard for a browse and a paddle.

Aerial image captured in Buffalo New York, boats docked in a marina with the city's skyline in the background

🚗 390 miles ⏱️ 7 hours

Travel from New York through the scenic Finger Lakes region to Buffalo, a gateway to Niagara Falls and a city known for its vibrant culture and delicious cuisine.

Along this route you'll get to admire the stunning scenery, and drive through charming towns such as Callicoon, found in pretty Sullivan County, and through upstate New York to Ithaca, home to waterfalls, parks, and a lively arts scene.

Aerial view of Hampton Beach, with sandy coastline dotted with sunbathers

🚗 100 miles ⏱️ 2 hours

Enjoy a quick getaway from New York to the Hamptons, where you can relax on beautiful beaches, shop in the luxury boutiques, and indulge in gourmet dining.

Just before you arrive at the Hamptons make a stop at Southampton, where you can visit the interesting Shinnecock Nation Cultural Center and Museum to learn more about the history, traditions, and art of the native Shinnecock people.

Quebec City, Canada taken as a panoramic view of Quebec City skyline with Saint Lawrence river at sunset.

🚗 640 miles ⏱️ 12 hours

Embark on a journey from New York to Quebec City and you can enjoy the unique charm and historical beauty of one of North America's oldest cities.

Take on a coastal route and as well as some super city stops including Salem, Massachusetts, you'll also want to spend time at the stunning port city of Portland. Spend some time here visiting Cape Elizabeth and the stunning Casco Bay.

Stores along East Market Street in Rhinebeck, New York
25.

New York to Rhinebeck

🚗 115 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 10 minutes

Visit Rhinebeck from New York, a quaint and picturesque town in the Hudson Valley and one of the most historically dense towns in this region.

This is a pretty short journey, however if you fancy some culture along the way then pay a visit to Storm King Art Center, New Windsor, an impressive 500-acre outdoor museum with large-scale art.

Sleepy Hollow lighthouse, in New York State's Hudson Valley, viewed at sunset
26.

New York to Hudson Valley

🚗 103 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 55 minutes

Explore the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley. Just outside of New York, Hudson Valley is as leafy and lovely as it is handily close - and a road trip is the simplest way to tour it.

Make your first stop along the way the village of Nyack, a laid-back town full of quaint old houses, cool boutiques and art galleries. A great place to park up and grab a coffee.

A ski run through snow-covered trees in Killington, Vermont.
27.

New York to Killington, Vermont

🚗 255 miles ⏱️ 4 hours, 45 minutes

Drive from New York to Killington, Vermont, to enjoy its world-class ski resorts and stunning mountain scenery. With over 150 runs; the 28 easy slopes are more than enough for any beginner, while an impressive 65 advanced-expert trails!

Before you even arrive venture to exciting cities like Hartford and Springfield on the way, and ahead of getting your imminent ski-fix.

Asheville, North Carolina, downtown skyline at dusk with mountains and fog in the background

🚗 790 miles ⏱️ 15 hours

Travel from New York to Asheville and you are in for a treat. Discover Asheville's vibrant arts scene and historic architecture nestled in the Appalachian Mountains.

Heading along this scenic route allows stops at White Oak Flats Overlook and the Great Valley Overlook to truly experience the beauty that the Blue Ridge Parkway has to offer. Blowing Rock is also a great overnight stop with beautiful scenery.

Camden Hills State Park, Maine in autumn with a view of the harbour from the summit of Mount Battie in the foreground against a blue sky and the sea in the distance.

🚗 470 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 30 minutes

Experience the rugged beauty and serene landscapes of Maine by driving from New York, exploring its picturesque coastlines and remote wilderness areas.

We suggest stopping over for a few hours or overnight at New Haven en route. This coastal city also has famous Yale University to visit, as well as museums and Art Gallery.

Rochester, New York, USA with the city skyline of Rochester, New York along Genesee River at sunset.

🚗 410 miles ⏱️ 8 hours, 10 minutes

Travel from New York to Rochester and a lively city will greet you, best known for its rich history in photography and optics.

Before reaching the city take some time out visiting Catskill, known for the Catskill Mountains a must-visit for those looking for outdoor fun. Be sure to visit the Catskill Mountain State Park while you're there.

The Steel Pier at Atlantic City, New Jersey.
31.

New York to Atlantic City

🚗 127 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 15 minutes

Take a quick trip from New York to Atlantic City to enjoy its famous boardwalk, casinos, and beaches. It's a perfect getaway for entertainment and relaxation by the sea. And is sometimes referred to as the Vegas of the east coast.

Head on a short detour to Lake Absegami, near Little Egg Harbor Township if you have an afternoon free for some swimming and boating action.

Colourful flowers and green foliage with a path cutting through the middle in the orangery at Longwood Gardens
32.

New York to Brandywine Valley

🚗 126 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 15 minutes

Journey from New York to Brandywine Valley, known for its scenery, grand estates, and treasures like the Winterthur Museum and Longwood Gardens. The valley was once the playground of America's aristocracy and you can see the remnants of those gilded lives.

Travelling with the family? Then why not stop off at Thrillz High Flying Adventure Park, King of Prussia, for a morning of fun along the way!

A pretty street with shops in Cooperstown, New York
33.

New York to Cooperstown

🚗 199 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 50 minutes

Explore Cooperstown from New York, a haven for baseball fans home to the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, against a backdrop of charming rural New York landscapes. Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard is a must for any fans of food and drink.

You'll pass right by Catskill on the way through, so make sure to enjoy the Catskill Mountains and visit Thomas Cole National Historic Site.

A large stone building at Princeton University with trees in front of it and the sun shining through
34.

New York to Princeton

🚗 50 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 30 minutes

Travel from New York to Princeton, an Ivy League town rich with historic sites and cultural offerings, and prestigious Princeton University. It's less 'bars and buzz' than you might expect, and a lot more green and grand.

Just over 50 miles from New York it isn't far to travel, but why not check out New Brunswick to make the most of the journey? We suggest a visit to Hopewell Rocks on the Bay of Fundy, where you can walk on the ocean floor during low tide.

Cold Spring, NY in the early morning, at water front park with band stand, and view of Storm King Mountain.
35.

New York to Cold Spring

🚗 62 miles ⏱️ 1 hour, 20 minutes

Take a short drive from New York to Cold Spring, a quaint village along the Hudson River, ideal for antiquing, hiking in nearby state parks, and enjoying riverside dining.

Just before you head over the George Washington Bridge stop off to marvel at the cute Little Red Lighthouse for some Insta-pics.

Aerial view of Greenport, including the extensive marina and boats
36.

New York to Greenport

🚗 110 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 30 minutes

Escape from New York to Greenport on Long Island, known for its charming maritime atmosphere, vineyards, and oyster bars. You're in for a peaceful escape bursting with local flavor.

If you are a history fan, then about midway pay a visit to Walt Whitman Birthplace State Historic Site at Huntington Station.

A small waterfall surrounded by very green trees at Kent Falls State Park, Connecticut
37.

New York to Kent, Connecticut

🚗 100 miles ⏱️ 2 hours, 10 minutes

Journey from New York to Kent, Connecticut, a charming New England village known for its beauty, fall foliage, and pretty sidewalk.

When you first approach Kent, drive straight through it and up to the Kent Falls State Park. Here, you'll be able to take the easy hike up to see the waterfalls.

Boathouse surrounded by autumn trees, reflecting in Echo Lake, in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire
38.

New York to Franconia, New Hampshire

🚗 326 miles ⏱️ 5 hours, 25 minutes

Drive from New York to Franconia, New Hampshire, to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the White Mountains, including Franconia Notch State Park. There are plenty of hiking trails and cycle routes set amidst thick forest, gorges and waterfalls.

You'll pass through Springfield on the way, so before you arrive at the awe-inspiring Franconia, why not check out some interesting sites like Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame and The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum.

Small boats next to a small wooden jetty in the harbour at St. Michaels, Maryland
39.

New York to St Michaels

🚗 211 miles ⏱️ 3 hours, 40 minutes

Escape New York for St Michaels, Maryland, a picturesque waterfront town on the Chesapeake Bay. The white-picket fences and manicured lawns, and a spacious marina create the archetypal all-American town.

You'll pass Wilmington as you make this journey, and here you can explore the charming historic downtown area and enjoyable Riverwalk.

Longer road trips from New York

Aerial view of the View of the Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, California at sunset

🚗 2,290 miles ⏱️ 45 hours

Embark on an epic cross-country journey from New York to Los Angeles, heading north and passing many iconic cities across America.

Underwater image of diver in the ocean coral reef and beautiful colours and turquoise waters, Key West, Florida, United States.

🚗 2,640 miles ⏱️ 47 hours

Travel to the sunny beaches of Florida, enjoying the East Coast's scenic beauty and attractions on this extensive road trip.

Bright pink and yellow Robolights artwork sculpture installation, surrounded by palm trees, Palm Springs, California

🚗 2,900 miles ⏱️ 43 hours

Journey across the country from New York to California, exploring the varied landscapes and states along this iconic American road trip.

A small art installation set up in the desert in Marfa, Texas, designed to represent a tiny Target store

🚗 1,430 miles ⏱️ 21 hours, 30 minutes

Take a southern adventure from New York to Caddo Lake, Texas, and discover the beauty and mysterious bayous of this unique wetland.

Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, California, USA.

🚗 3,270 miles ⏱️ 52 hours

Explore New York to San Francisco, enjoying the attractions and landscapes of the northern states before reaching the Pacific Coast.

Famous "Welcome To Las Vegas" neon sign with a purple and pink sunset in the background

🚗 2,600 miles ⏱️ 39 hours

Drive from New York to Las Vegas via Colorado, passing jaw-dropping urban landscapes of the East to the rugged deserts of the West.

Mount Rushmore National Monument, South Dakota, USA in the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA on a sunny day.

🚗 1,725 miles ⏱️ 26 hours

Experience a monumental road trip from New York to Mount Rushmore, exploring the historic and iconic landmarks of the Midwest.

Buffalo Bayou Park, Houston, USA taken at the pedestrian bridge crossing over Houston's Buffalo Bayou with a beautiful view of downtown Houston skyline in the background.

🚗 1,830 miles ⏱️ 28 hours

Take a coastal route from New York to Houston, passing the scenic beauty of the Gulf Coast states before reaching lively Houston.