3 Great Day Trips from New York City

Day trips are a great way to escape the everyday hustle and bustle, and unwind without having to plan a big vacation. Because of NYC‘s central location, you can visit landmarks, attractions, and outdoor recreation areas that will excite any type of traveler, with just a short drive. At Empire Rent A Car, we love a great day trip – so check out our collection of some of the best nearby spots.

1. Glass House, New Canaan, CT

The Glass House is a world-renowned architectural gem and Natural Trust Historic Site in New Canaan, Connecticut, which is just over an hour outside NYC. The Glass House features a permanent collection of 20th-century paintings and sculptures along with a range of temporary and evolving exhibitions. Guided tours are available and advance booking is recommended.

2. Mohonk Preserve

New Paltz, New York is home to the Mohonk Preserve, an 8,000-acre nature preserve on the slopes of the Shawangunk Mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, and skiing trails, and the area is also very popular for mountain climbers. The preserve also has a range of programs in environmental education, land protection, and scientific research. Located only an hour and a half from the city, it's a wonderful day trip destination.

3. Sayen House and Gardens

Sayen House and Gardens is a beautifully maintained municipal park and botanical garden that creates a tranquil sanctuary for nature lovers, garden enthusiasts, and history buffs alike. It is located just over an hour outside of New York in the historic Hamilton Square in the heart of New Jersey. The garden is open year-round from dawn to dusk, without charge, though park activity is at its peak in the spring.

Once you've selected the best spot for a your next day trip, book a rental car from Empire Rent A Car. We've been making car rental easy since 1970! Contact us today at (718) 353-6848 to make a reservation. We look forward to serving you.