Travel Discovery

Upstate Day Trips from NYC: Escaping the City's Hustle and Bustle

Destination: New York City (Upstate)

    1. Hudson Valley Scenic Drive
    2. Overview: Begin your day early with a scenic drive along the historic Hudson River, where the foliage paints a vibrant canvas in autumn. Stop at Cold Spring, a quaint village nestled between mountains, known for its antique shops and stunning views of the river. Take a stroll on the Walkway Over the Hudson, the world's longest elevated pedestrian bridge, offering panoramic vistas.
    3. Duration: Full Day

    4. Must-Try Delicacy: Enjoy a hearty brunch at one of the local cafes, featuring farm-to-table ingredients.

    5. Bear Mountain State Park

    6. Overview: Head to Bear Mountain State Park, less than 50 miles from NYC, for a nature-filled adventure. Hike the trails that lead to stunning vistas, visit the Trailside Museums and Zoo, or simply relax by Hessian Lake. The park offers activities year-round, including boating, swimming, and ice-skating.
    7. Opening Time: 8:00 AM
    8. Closing Time: Sunset
    9. Visit Duration: 4-5 Hours

    10. Recommended Meal: Sample the famous hot apple cider at a nearby farm stand.

    11. Woodstock & Catskill Mountains

    12. Overview: Immerse yourself in the artistic legacy and natural beauty of Woodstock, famously associated with the legendary music festival. Explore the town's galleries, boutiques, and cafes before heading into the Catskill Mountains for a hike. The Kaaterskill Falls, a two-drop waterfall, is a highlight not to be missed.
    13. Duration: Full Day

    14. Culinary Highlight: Savor a locally sourced dinner in Woodstock, renowned for its eclectic dining scene.

    15. Storm King Art Center

    16. Overview: Art enthusiasts will love Storm King Art Center, an outdoor museum showcasing modern sculptures spread across 500 acres of rolling hills, woods, and fields. Bike or walk the paths while marveling at monumental works by renowned artists against the backdrop of the Hudson Highlands.
    17. Opening Time: 10:00 AM
    18. Closing Time: 5:30 PM (varies by season)
    19. Visit Duration: 3-4 Hours

    20. Food Suggestion: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the art installations.

    21. Beacon and Dia:Beacon

    22. Overview: End your upstate explorations with a cultural twist in Beacon, home to Dia:Beacon, a contemporary art museum housed in a former Nabisco factory. The massive space displays large-scale installations that interact with the industrial architecture, providing a unique artistic experience. Afterward, wander Main Street for its charming galleries, shops, and artisanal food spots.
    23. Opening Time: Dia:Beacon 11:00 AM
    24. Closing Time: Dia:Beacon 6:00 PM
    25. Visit Duration: 2-3 Hours
    26. Local Delight: Try the artisanal ice cream before heading back to the city.