When people say they’re going to New York, rarely do they mean anywhere other than New York City. There’s a reason why this small pocket of America is considered by many to be the ultimate destination: it has everything.
It’s abuzz with activity twenty-four hours a day. You can see the world’s greatest shows, and be at the forefront of every new artistic movement. But there’s more to New York state than Manhattan. Indeed, you can cross the state lines and have a terrific time. If you’re planning to visit New York City for a week or more, then consider one of the below side trips. You won’t be disappointed.
A Weekend of Fun
Yes, New York City is a lot of fun – but it’s also a functional city, with people working and other trappings that stop it being all out fun. If this what you’re looking for, then why not take a break from Manhattan and cross the border into Atlantic City, the “Las Vegas of the East.” There you’ll be able to have a fun-filled weekend without limitation or having to navigate how you’re going to get from A to B. It’ll all be there for you.
To the Mountain
You might not have thought that there’s a slice of the great American outdoors anywhere near New York City, but there is. Indeed, it’s actually very close. Take a trip to Bear Mountain, and you’ll have everything you could ask for from a trip into nature. Take your hiking boots, or rent a bike, and hit the trails. The air up there is clean, and it offers the perfect alternative to the buzzing, non-stop city life. You can be at peace, and all it takes is a short 1.5-hour drive from the city. Perfect.
By the Lake
And if that’s not enough for you, how about a few days at the lake? Book a stay at the Courtyard Lake George, and you’ll be treated to terrific views of the lake of the same name. The area is best during the summer, but it’s a true year-round destination. You can go rafting, tubing, go for a walk, and, if you’re traveling with the little ones in tow, pay a visit to the Great Escape amusement park. Whatever you do, you’re sure to have a fun and relaxing time.
New Jersey Beach Life
Have you ever seen Jersey Shore? Of course, you have! If you’re looking for a beach trip, then you could do worse than visiting Sea Girt, which is only a two hour trip from Manhattan. You’ll have miles and miles of beach in which to relax, and then you can return to the Big Apple full of energy and ready to see the sights.
Another World
You can step into another world entirely by taking a trip to Lehigh Valley, which is Pennsylvania. Old-fashioned and colorful, it is complemented by rolling hills and plenty of trees. Indeed, the car journey itself is worth the trip alone.