Day trip ideas in Upstate NY: 40 fun places to visit

fun day trip

Photo: Sylvan Beach Amusement Park at dusk. Scott Schild | [email protected]

By Alaina Potrikus | Contributing writer

» Check out our updated list, now with 59 day trips

A day trip in Upstate New York  can lead to all kinds of adventures. Take a selfie with statues of women's rights legends Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. Chase waterfalls from Niagara to the gorges of Ithaca to Ausable Chasm in the Adirondacks. Get wet at water parks in Canandaigua or Old Forge, and catch sunsets on Million Dollar Beach in Lake George or atop Mount Defiance at Fort Ticonderoga. Check out these ideas when planning your next day trip in Upstate New York.

fun day trip

Photo: Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Animal Adventure Park

Spend the day with  Upstate New York's most famous giraffe, April, and her new offspring. The  private zoo in Harpursville opens for the season on May 13, with daily hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is cash-only (with an ATM on site), and visitors can purchase food for various animal encounters (carrots for the camels and giraffes are $3, grapes for the monkeys and lemurs are $2). The park's other inhabitants include zebras, black bears, buffalo, pot-bellied pigs and hedgehogs, a mountain lion and Tibetan yak. The park is about a 15-minute drive from Binghamton; grab lunch at the  Main Street Grill and Bakery in nearby Afton, designed to mimic the pace and menus of eateries in New York City.

View this post on Instagram Recognize this kitchen?! Maybe if I posted it in B&W... It's the kitchen from I ❤️ Lucy! #tourlife #ilovelucy #jamestown A post shared by Rachel Brown (@rachelbrownmusic) on Sep 18, 2016 at 2:10pm PDT

Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum

Hit the road for Jamestown, hometown of famed comedienne Lucille Ball. The Lucille Ball Desi Arnaz Museum is home to reproductions of the sets from the television show, "I Love Lucy," Ball's Emmy awards, props, costumes and rare memorabilia from the legendary 1950s comedy television show.  Look for the multi-story mural of the iconic Vitameatavegamin advertisement, as well as a depiction of the conveyor belt scene in the chocolate factory. In the nearby village of Celeron, visitors can take a selfie with a bronze statue of Ball made headlines in recent years. The original  "Scary Lucy" statue was replaced last summer with a more flattering sculpture, which shows Ball in a polka-dot dress. Also nearby: Southern Tier Brewing Company , which offers tours and tastings throughout the week (check their website for hours, which change seasonally).

fun day trip

Photo: Main Street in Beacon. Dominick Fiorille for NYup.com

For art, antiques and culinary delights, spend a day in Beacon, located on the Hudson River in Dutchess County. The  DIA art museum is located in the former Nabisco box factory and houses an impressive collection of large-scale contemporary exhibits. More galleries are scattered throughout downtown Beacon, along with antique and jewelry stores and farm-to-table restaurants and brewpubs. Grab lunch at the Dr. Who-themed restaurant,  The Pandorica , or bring home baked good from the Beacon Bread Company . For unique souveniers, visit Dream in Plastic, a quirky toy shop, or  Hudson Beach Glass, which features glass-blowing demonstrations and a sculpture gallery.

fun day trip

Photo: Scott Schild | [email protected]

Strong National Museum of Play

For a family-friendly day trip, head to the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester. Little kids will love the reproduction of  Sesame Street, where Big Bird overlooks the famous stoop at 123 Sesame Street. Kids of all ages — and adults too — will enjoy the Wegmans Super Kids Mart , with child-sized grocery carts, shelves filled with lifelike products and a working checkout station where pint-sized cashiers can scan their own bar-coded items. Parents will enjoy a stop at the Toy Halls of Fame , which includes classic toys from the past, from Etch-a-Sketch and G.I. Joe to Atari and Easy Bake Oven. Don't forget to stop by the  Dancing Wings Butterfly Garden, the only year-round indoor butterfly garden in Upstate New York, and take a ride on the restored 1918 carousel  and the Strong Express, an indoor locomotive. Have lunch at the Strong's cafeteria , with a la carte options including Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and Subway, or have a sit-down meal at Bill Gray's Restaurant or at the vintage Skyliner Diner located in the museum's atrium.

fun day trip

Letchworth State Park

Heralded as the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park boasts nearly 600-foot cliff walls and three major waterfalls along the Genesee River. More than 66 miles of hiking trails wind through the park, as well as amenities for whitewater rafting and kayaking ,  seasonal hot balloon rides, horseback riding and biking. Be sure to check out Inspiration Falls, the state's tallest plunging waterfall with a total drop of over 350 feet. In the evening, visit the Charcoal Corral and Silver Lake Twin Drive-In Theater in nearby Perry, with an 18-hole mini-golf course, giant inflatables, weekly car cruise-ins, live music and outdoor double features on the weekend.

fun day trip

Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge

The 9,800-acre site outside of Seneca Falls  is home to six active bald eagles nests, with observations of nearly 60 eagles in recent years. Take a one-mile hike along the Seneca Trail from the Visitor Center, or stay in your car for the 3.5-mile Wildlife Drive through the preserve. Binoculars are available for loan to help visitors see waterfowl, herons and other marsh birds, Canada geese, bald eagle, osprey, harriers and other birds of prey, and shorebirds. Other wildlife sightings include muskrat, white-tailed deer, mink, fox and coyote. Cap your visit with a trip to Montezuma Winery  in Seneca Falls, known for dry to sweet wines including riesling, blueberry, rhubarb and the most popular, Cranberry Bog. The winery is also home to Hidden Marsh Distillery , which produces brandy, whiskey and liqueurs from locally-sourced ingredients. Be sure to check out the flagship Bee Vodka, handmade in small batches from New York honey.

fun day trip

Photo: Gary Walts | [email protected]

Sackets Harbor

Take a step back in history at the  Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site , where two crucial battles of the War of 1812 took place overlooking Lake Ontario. The site hosts numerous activities throughout the year, with living history reenactments, cannon and artillery demonstrations and other educational opportunities. Families will enjoy a side excursion to Old McDonald's Farm , where visitors can hand-feed beef cows and dairy goats, ride a pony and take a tour of the farm via tractor. For meals, head into the village for brick oven pizza at  Goodfellos or dinner or brunch in the courtyard of Tin Pan Galley . Try the 1812 Amber Ale or Thousand Islands Pale Ale at Sackets Harbor Brewing Company , and end your visit with a scoop from Saturdays, Sundaes & More , the village ice cream shop.

fun day trip

Lake Placid

The two-time home of the Olympic Games isn't just a winter destination. The  Lake Placid Olympic Center is open year-round; the complex houses the rink where the U.S. Hockey Team's Miracle on Ice took place in 1980. For an active visit, check out High Peaks Cyclery , which offers mountain bike, kayak, canoe and hiking gear rentals to explore the Adirondack Mountains year-round.  SUP Lake Placid rents stand-up paddle boards and kayaks on Mirror Lake, and hosts outdoor yoga classes. For an easy day hike, head to nearby Cascade Mountain , one of the easiest High Peaks to climb with a spectacular panoramic vista at the summit (4,098 feet). Take a break with a drink at Big Slide Brewery ,  Lake Placid Pub and Brewery or the Great Adirondack Brewing Company .

fun day trip

Photo: Stephen D. Cannerelli | [email protected]

Sterling Renaissance Festival

Spend a day in an authentic English Renaissance village, where a cast of royals, townspeople, thieves, beggars, artisans and craftspeople transport visitors to the realm of Warwick, England, in 1585. Daily activities at the 35-acre park include parades, jousts and duels, archery demonstrations, period music and dancing, and performances on 12 stages, including a "Wench auction." The  menu is fit for a royal feast, with turkey legs, steak-on-a-stake, mile high cakes and adult beverages including ale, wine and mead. Rent a period costume near the main entrance or purchase apparel, jewelry, headpieces, armor and weaponry at the Royal Marketplace.  Themed weekend celebrations include an Ale Fest, Highland Fling, Pirate Invasion and Fantasy, Fairies and the Future. Admission is $24.95 for adults, $12.95 for children; tickets can be purchased in advance online .

fun day trip

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

The Finger Lakes  community of Corning offers a ton of activities for visitors of all ages. No trip to Corning is complete without a visit to the Corning Museum of Glass ; sign up ahead of time to make your own glass project with the help of experts, or stop into one of the group glassmaking demonstrations held throughout the day. Spend the rest of your day exploring the "Crystal City," starting at the Rockwell Museum , a Smithsonian-affiliated museum featuring American artists. For lunch or dinner, head over to the Gaffer District , which has been  recognized by Bon Appetit as a notable destination for food along the Appalachian Trail. The area has grown to include over 45 restaurants and over 50 places to shop for unique items; end your day with a treat at the  Old World Cafe and Ice Cream shop, featuring a Victorian ice cream counter and old-fashioned homemade candies.

fun day trip

Photo: Joed Viera for NYup.com

Salamanca and the Enchanted Mountains

Known as the Enchanted Mountain  region for its picturesque scenery,  Allegany State Park offers sandy beaches, 18 different hiking trails and 5.6 miles of bike trails for outdoor adventures. Head to the Red House area of the park, where a Tudor-style administration building overlooks the lake and offers a restaurant with a full menu and patio seating . Step into the past at the Salamanca Rail Museum , a fully restored passenger depot that dates to the early 1900s. Try horseback riding at Crosspatch stables , which offers guided trail rides and Chuckwagon dinners. Before heading home, try your luck at  Seneca Allegany Resort & Casino, with slot machines, table games, restaurants and other activities.

fun day trip

Photo: Robert Mescavage | Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain

Hunter Mountain welcomes visitors year-round for outdoor activities and draws big crowds for music festivals, like the Taste of Country Music Festival  and Mountain Jam Fest . Take a scenic skyride to the 3,200-foot summit of Hunter Mountain, where you can see the high peaks of the northern Catskills, the Berkshire Mountains of Massachusetts and the Green Mountains of Vermont. For a more adventurous ride, check out New York Zipline Adventure Tours , the longest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America featuring over five miles of ziplines, some reaching heights of nearly 600 feet above the ground. The Hunter Mountain resort also offers fly fishing , 4-by-4 off road adventures , hiking ,  golf and disc golf . Try a local brew at  Hunter Mountain Brewery, which offers a full lunch and dinner menu, outdoor dining and live music.

fun day trip

Photo: NYup.com archive

The home of the world-famous Boilermaker Road Race , the city of Utica has been growing its offerings for visitors in recent years. The Munson-Williams-Proctor Arts Institute  is home to a permanent collection of 300 years of American painting, 19th-century decorative arts, European Modernism and Japanese prints. Tour the  Saranac brewing facility on Varick Street and try pints or flights in the 1888 Tavern tasting room. Kids will love the  Utica Zoo or the Utica Children's Museum , both small facilities that serve up big fun for all ages. For a culinary tour, be sure to try Utica's signature  chicken riggies (at the Chesterfield Restaurant ), Utica greens (a la Georgio's Village Cafe ) and  tomato pie (try Roma Sausage & Deli ) and halfmoon cookies for dessert (check out Holland Farms Bakery ).

View this post on Instagram It may not feel like spring yet, but the flowers are always blooming at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. #ILoveNY 📷: @markdanielharley A post shared by I LOVE NEW YORK (@iloveny) on Apr 2, 2017 at 9:47pm PDT

Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens

Built in 1900, the nearly  12-acre conservatory and surrounding formal gardens offers visitors a chance to experience the flora of the Florida Everglades, the Panama cloud forest, the American desert and the Asian rainforest. The centerpiece is the glass conservatory, modeled after the famous Crystal Palace in England. Be sure to visit the Palm Dome, a 67-foot-tall room filled with palms and tropical fruit trees. A new exhibit highlights aquatic gardens and the Asian rainforest, with a peaceful pond (and a family of koi fish), waterfall, moon gate and collection of orchids and bonsai. Kids will love the Wegmans Family Garden, where they can plant seeds, build sand castles, water the garden and take part in other activities. The outdoor gardens include a Peace Garden and Healing Garden.

fun day trip

Michael Greenlar | [email protected]

Start your day in the historic downtown business district, where flag-lined sidewalks connect visitors to the shops, restaurants and events that keep the community bustling with activity. Pack a picnic and head to Lakeland Park, located across from the Brae Loch Inn  at the intersection of Forman and Albany streets. The picturesque park includes a dock and diving board and sandy beach. Lifeguards are on duty from June to August; a public bathhouse offers restrooms and showers. Take a drive to nearby Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall that dates back more than 10,000 years. A trail winds through the 194-acre park, which offers picnic areas and fishing. Or head to Stone Quarry Hill Art Park , a 104-acre property filled with outdoor sculptures nestled along four miles of trails. Kids will love Critz Farms , a year-round agritourism destination that offers U-pick fruit crops, a giant playground and barnyard petting area (Be sure to check out the gift shop for local treasures and  Harvest Moon Cidery and Winery for adult beverages). For dinner and drinks, wine lovers can head north of the village to  Owera Vineyards, with a tasting room overlooking Cazenovia Lake and brick oven serving up tasty flatbreads. For a local brew, head south of the village to Empire Farmstead Brewery , a new stop on the local brewery trail that features an outdoor dining space to enjoy flights and pints.

fun day trip

Windmill tours

Since the early 2000s, wind turbines have been popping up across Upstate New York. The  giant towers have drawn onlookers since the beginning, and several of the wind farms have installed visitors centers to allow interested tourists to get a closer look at the clean energy giants. At the FREE Center in Fenner , informational kiosks that outline the renewable energy efforts in Madison County are set up off of Bellinger Road. Visitors can picnic beside one of the towers, which weighs more than 187 tons and stands 212 feet from the ground to the center hub, and 329 feet from the ground to the tip of a blade at its full height.  Check out the full-size turbine blade on the ground to get a sense of the size and weight of the structures.  Maple Ridge Wind Farm , New York State's largest wind farm, is located in Lowville in Lewis County, with 195 turbines that produce enough electricity to power approximately 136,000 homes, about 2 percent of New York State's residential electricity need. Pull over at the  visitor's center kiosk on Eagle Factory Road off Route 177 for a panoramic view of the 21,000 acre site on the Tug Hill Plateau, about 75 miles northeast of Syracuse.

View this post on Instagram I love salad yes I do, I love salad how about you?🤗😂🥗🥒 #eatyourveggies #eatyourgreens A post shared by Victoria Tschopp (@victoriatschoppp) on Apr 27, 2017 at 9:50am PDT

Culinary Institute of America

For a taste of the Hudson Valley , head to Hyde Park, where a group of restaurants  run in conjunction with the Culinary Institute of America are serving up unique cuisine. There's  Ristorante Caterina deMedici for Italian lovers, the  Bocuse Restaurant for a French fine dining experience, and American Bounty Restaurant and Tavern , focusing on regional and seasonal products. Bring home a sweet treat from the Apple Pie Bakery Cafe, with baked goods and desserts like red velvet, carrot cake and pineapple upside down cake macarons, Nutella doughnut holes, lemon elderflower eclairs and classic apple pie. The restaurants are part of the educational experience for students at CIA, who spend time in both the front and back of the house to learn and master the full scope of restaurant operations under the guidance of expert chef-instructors.

fun day trip

Photo: Teri Weaver | syracuse.com

Skaneateles

The  Finger Lakes community draws visitors each year for the crystal clear waters of Skaneateles Lake and the quaint culture of the picturesque downtown. Take a cruise of the 16-mile-long lake with Mid-Lakes Navigation , which offers lunch cruises featuring Dinosaur BBQ, romantic dinner cruises and more family-friendly sightseeing cruises aboard a the Judge Ben Wiles, a replica steamship. Explore the downtown shops, restaurants and galleries at your leisure, and be sure to walk out on the pier for a beautiful view of the water and the surrounding landscape. Landmark restaurants include the Sherwood Inn , Doug's Fish Fry ,  The Krebs and Blue Water Grill . Enjoy an afternoon tasting at Anyela's Vineyard , which overlooks the village, or head to  Mirbeau Inn and Spa for a day of relaxation at the estate built to mimic the French landscapes of Claude Monet.

fun day trip

Photo: Kate Collins | [email protected]

Women's Rights National Historic Park

Step back in time in Seneca Falls  to learn about the efforts of women's rights leaders and other reformers in the 19th century. Start your day at visitor center to pick up maps and daily schedules — be sure to check out the life-size bronze statues of the women and men who organized the first Women's Rights Convention, including Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Frederick Douglass. Head to the adjacent Wesleyan Chapel , where the convention was held in 1848, and follow the tour to the home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton , which the famous suffragette called the "Center of the Rebellion." Be sure to stop by the National Women's Hall of Fame , which honors more than 250 women from Lucretia Mott and Elizabeth Cady Stanton to Rep. Nancy Pelosi, the first female speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. (Note: a new home for the hall and the Center for Great Women is under construction at the 1844 Seneca Knitting Mill ; for now, it remains at a historic bank building on Falls Street in the heart of downtown.)

fun day trip

Photo: Jeff Goulding for NYup.com

Mohonk Mountain House

Located in the heart of the Hudson Valley , the Victorian castle resort built in 1869  has served as a getaway for the Rockefellers, Andrew Carnegie and five U.S. presidents: Chester A. Arthur, Rutherford B. Hayes, William Howard Taft, Theodore Roosevelt and Bill Clinton.  Day guest packages  allow visitors to enjoy the amenities of the resort without spending the night.  Spa packages  include access to the eucalyptus steam room, sauna and outdoor heated mineral pool; reservations at any of the  award-winning restaurants comes with access to the resort and grounds for the day.  Day passes for hiking include access to 85 miles of trails, ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Take the three-mile hike to the Sky Top Tower, a 100-foot-tall stone building at the peak of the preserve with panoramic views of the Catskills, or enjoy the woodlands on horseback or by horse-drawn carriage . Tennis packages are available, along with tours of the historic house , greenhouse and Victorian gardens and afternoon tea and cookies. The other recreational activities at the resort include disc golf, rock climbing, boating, golf, mounting biking, archery and tomahawk throwing.

fun day trip

Photo: The Associated Press

Watkins Glen

For a fast-paced adventure, head to Watkins Glen International , where racing weekends feature sports car, endurance and stock car events. Visitors can experience the iconic racetrack themselves  by driving their own vehicle around the 3.4-mile Grand Prix circuit behind a pace car . After two laps, cars will have their photos taken the start/finish line. The Finger Lakes Wine Festival  also draws crowds to the site. Other Watkins Glen excursions: Farm Sanctuary , a 175-acre refuge for more than 500 rescue animals; Watkins Glen State Park , known for its gorge trail and 19 waterfalls; and the Seneca Lake Wine Trail , with more than three dozen wineries and vineyards, plus a growing number of  breweries and distilleries .

fun day trip

Tupper Lake

Advertised as the "High Line of the Forest," the  Wild Walk  gives visitors a chance to walk among the trees on a trail of bridges at the  81-acre Adirondack campus . The park includes a four-story twig tree house, a spider's web-like net for climbing, and a nest that visitors can climb into to see the view from 42 feet in the air. While in Tupper Lake, stop by  Little Wolf Beach , one of the largest public beaches in the Adirondacks, with lifeguards watching over a floating dock with trampoline and rope swing. Or take in a movie at  Adirondack State Theater , which opened its doors in 1914.

fun day trip

Photo: Mike Lynch for NYup.com

Santa's Workshop

Guaranteed to delight young audiences year-round,  Santa's Workshop  near  Whiteface Mountain  has been an Adirondack tradition since 1949. The storybook village includes Santa's House, the reindeer barn, a bakery, candy shop, blacksmith and toy shop. Rides include a sleigh coaster, bobsled ride, Candy Cane Express train, ferris wheel and Christmas carousel. Summer hours at the park are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, from June 27 to Sept. 3. Autumn and winter hours vary.

fun day trip

Ausable Chasm

Billed as the  Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks , the sandstone gorge south of Plattsburgh offers spectacular views of primeval rock formations including Elephant's Head, Column Rock Hyde's Cave and Jacob's Well. The adventure center offers a variety of activities, from low-intensity hiking to more adventurous rock climbing, rappelling and cliff walks. Visitors can tube or raft down the Ausable River (bring water shoes), experiencing the towering cliffs, rapids and whirlpool basin. Fifteen miles of mountain biking trails for beginner and advanced riders wind through the Adirondack terrain.

fun day trip

Michael Franklin | UpstateAerialPhotography.com

Thousand Islands

Explore the  Thousand Islands  with a  boat tour , where seasoned guides share the stories of the more than 1,800 islands that cover 50 miles of the St. Lawrence River between New York and Canada. Set aside time to explore Heart Island, home of the six-story, 120-room  Boldt Castle  with an indoor pool, stunning grounds and panoramic views of the St. Lawrence. Weekend festivities take over downtown  Alexandria Bay  throughout the summer, with live entertainment for the whole family.

fun day trip

Photo courtesy of Fort Ticonderoga

Fort Ticonderoga

Located at the southern end of Lake Champlain, the  Fort Ticonderoga  facility recreates life in the mid-1700s with musket firing demonstrations each day at 11 a.m. and cannon firing demonstrations at 2 p.m. In addition to military history, have a picnic atop  Mount Defiance , where panoramic vistas include Lake Champlain and the High Peaks; reach the picnic pavilion by car or hike up the mountain trails once traversed by troops.  Rent a canoe  to explore the fort by water, or take a  boat tour  of the Ticonderoga Peninsula aboard the 49-passenger tour boat Carillon.

fun day trip

Photo courtesy of Enchanted Forest Water Safari

The fun never stops at  Enchanted Forest , the state's largest water theme park with more than 50 rides and attractions. The water park includes relaxing tube rides to high speed slides, including the newest double-tube ride "The Silverback," a 100 foot drop into a large 40-foot-diameter bowl. Need a  break from the water park?   Take a six-mile paddling tour of the Moose River and return via the  Adirondack Scenic Railroad . For an aerial view of the High Peaks,  ride the scenic chairlift to the top of McCauley Mountain.

fun day trip

Photo: raddiec via flickr

Lake George

Nicknamed "Queen of the American Lakes,"  the resort town north of Albany  has been a favorite since the late 19th century, when John D. Rockefeller was a regular visitor. Spend the afternoon at  Million Dollar Beach at Lake George Beach State Park , named one of the best beaches for families for its cleanliness, public facilities and panoramic views of the lake and Adirondacks. Hop aboard the  Minnie-ha-ha , one of the last steam paddlewheel boats in America, for an hour-long cruise of the lake at sunset (or catch fireworks on Thursdays during the summer).

fun day trip

Saratoga Springs

Place a bet on the thoroughbreds at  Saratoga Race Course , the third oldest race course in America.  Races run six days a week,  and visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drink for a picnic.  Walk through the downtown business district to  Congress Park , where you can take a ride on the  historic wooden carousel . Drive down the Avenue of the Pines to enter  Saratoga Spa State Park , where you can walk past the marble colonnades and reflecting pool of the spa complex. Grab tickets for a nighttime concert at the  Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Woodstock Farm Sanctuary

The shelter  cares for farm animals that were victims of cruelty and neglect, rescued from stockyards, auctions and slaughterhouses. Each of the sanctuary's animals has a name and a story, including Clyde, a chicken found on the streets of New York City; Harper and Atticus, a pair of goats whose mother was rescued from a downstate farm; and Elvis, rescued while awaiting sale to at a veal auction.  Expect to interact with the animals - some of the pigs enjoy belly rubs, and sheep are likely to nuzzle you as you walk through the pasture. Tours are given on weekends, and a cafe offers vegan food options.

fun day trip

Howe Caverns

The  underground limestone cavern  is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast and the second most visited natural attraction in New York State (after  Niagara Falls ). A 90-minute walking tour and boat ride takes visitors 156 feet below the ground to stalactites, stalagmites and an underground lake millions of years in the making. Above ground, the  High Adventure Park  includes a zip line, ropes course, rock wall and the H20-GO Ball, a 12-foot inflatable ball that takes riders down a 1,000-foot hill.

fun day trip

Photo: Kathe Harrington for NYup.com

Chittenango

Get up close and personal with a variety of exotic and domestic animals that were hand-raised at  The Wild Animal Park . The stars of the park are a pair of giraffes — Jase and Jasmine — which visitors can hand feed from a new deck.  While you're in Chittenango , take a walk down the Yellow Brick sidewalk to the  All Things Oz museum , a tribute to the village's native son L. Frank Baum, author of "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz." Adults can stop at the  Yellow Brick Road Casino , which opened in May 2015. Or head up to  Chittenango Falls State Park , home to a 167-foot waterfall.

fun day trip

Sylvan Beach

The vacation community on the eastern shore of Oneida Lake is perfectly sized for a day trip. Spend the afternoon at  Sylvan Beach Amusement Park , a throwback to the town's early resort days with a vintage Kiddieland with 10 rides for smaller guests, classic arcade games like Skeeball, the Galaxi steel roller coaster and bumper boats.There are plenty of opportunities for swimming, boating and fishing. Be sure to grab an ice cream cone and stroll through the downtown district after catching the sunset on the beach.

fun day trip

Photo: Dennis Nett | [email protected]

Cooperstown

You can start at the  National Baseball Hall of Fame , but there is a lot more to do in this lakeside community.  Plan a side trip to the  Farmer's Museum  and ride the Empire State Carousel. Or walk the grounds of  Hyde Hall,  a 50-room mansion overlooking  Otsego Lake , and take a walk on the beach at  Glimmerglass State Park.  Enjoy a tasting at one of the six stops on the  Cooperstown Beverage Trail ;  Brewery Ommegang  offers a cafe menu of Belgian favorites (try the frites — handcut fries that are twice fried and served with dipping sauces).

fun day trip

Niagara Falls

Cross this one off your  bucket list : A trip to see one of the natural wonders of the world. Board the  Maid of the Mist boat tour  to get within soaking distance of Horseshoe Falls; for an even wetter experience, take the  Cave of the Winds  tour, where a poncho is required for the Hurricane Deck that brings visitors beneath Bridal Veil Falls.  End your day with fireworks,  which go off at 10 p.m. every Sunday, Wednesday and Friday from May 1 to Oct. 31.

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Ellicottville

Start your visit at Holiday Valley's  Aerial Park , a series of platforms, bridges and zip lines that create 13 different courses (the largest in New York State). Check out the climbing forest — a three-dimensional version of a climbing wall that is one of only three in the United States. Take a ride on the Mountain Coaster, a roller coaster ride down the terrain that includes curves, jumps and spirals. After an adventurous day, enjoy the  small-town charm of Ellicottville  and take home a sweet treat from  Watson's Chocolates , known for its sponge candy.

fun day trip

The 15.5-acre  Seneca Park Zoo  is the perfect size for children and adults alike. African lions prowl a savannah-like enclosure in the "A Step Into Africa" exhibit, which also is home to elephants and olive baboons. While in Rochester, try the city's signature dish at Nick Tahou Hots, home of the  "Garbage Plate,"  — where customers choose two selections of eggs, grilled cheese, fried ham, fried haddock, a cheeseburger, hamburger, red hot, white hot, Italian Sausage or chicken tender and two sides. And if you're on a budget, there are several  free things to do in Rochester .

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Provided photo

Roseland Park

The 56-acre  Roseland Water Park  offers attractions for the entire family, from a splash pad for little kids, a lazy river for adults, a family raft ride that mimics whitewater rafting, a wave pool and high-intensity slides like the Cliff, which drops riders 65 feet at speeds of 30 mph. For a bigger rush, head over to the new  Roseland Wake Park,  the first full-sized cable wakeboarding park in the Northeast that pulls riders through a 2,100-foot continuous loop course on the lake that includes ramps and rails for tricks and stunts.

fun day trip

Photo: Lauren Long | [email protected]

Finger Lakes

Visit the  Women's Rights National Historical Park  and the  National Women's Hall of Fame  and take a selfie with statues of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Frederick Douglass and Lucretia Mott. Take a stroll through  Seneca Falls , the quaint community that is widely believed to be the inspiration for Frank Capra's holiday classic, " It's A Wonderful Life ." Plan to visit several of the wineries on the  Seneca Lake Wine Trail,  including Belhurst Castle in Geneva, where you can dine at outdoor tables overlooking the lake. Not up for a wine tour? Make time to shop at  Waterloo Premium Outlets  or spend several serene hours birdwatching at  Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge.

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With more than  150 waterfalls within 10 miles  of Ithaca, you don't have to go far for a spectacular view. Check out  Taughannock Falls State Park,  home to a 215-foot waterfall (three stories higher than Niagara Falls) and walk the gorge and rim trails.  Robert H. Treman State Park  offers public swimming at the stream-fed pool beneath Enfield Falls; nine miles of trails follow the gorge past 12 waterfalls, including the 115-foot Lucifer Falls. After a day of hiking, enjoy the atmosphere at the newly renovated  Ithaca Commons,  a four-block pedestrian area with more than 100 shops, restaurants, street vendors and street entertainers.

fun day trip

Read more: Summer bucket list for Upstate NY

Have the best summer ever:  45 fun things you must do before fall .

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Best Unique & Fun Ideas for Day Trips from NYC

Written by Becca

Updated on March 8th, 2024

A woman standing next to a train track in New York City with a suitcase.

Looking for the best easy day trips from NYC by car, bus or by train? These fun day trip ideas are the most fun and unique places to visit outside New York City.

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Posted in New York

Day Trips from NYC

Poughkeepsie

  • Cold Spring
  • Storm King Art Center
  • Minnewaska State Park Preserve
  • Clarence Fahnestock State Park
  • Bear Mountain State Park
  • Harriman State Park
  • Dater Mountain Nature Park
  • Jersey City
  • Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
  • Watchung Reservation
  • South Mountain Reservation
  • Asbury Park
  • Wawayanda State Park
  • Jones Beach
  • Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve
  • Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Philadelphia

  • Mianus River Park

Everyone knows that once you live in NYC, you love it, but you’re also looking for your next escape to leave the city for some breathing room. And if you’re traveling in NYC, maybe you heard that there are SO many places to visit for a day trip, not too far away!

My definition of a day trip is “under 2 hours of travel,” so this list features places that aren’t too far from NYC or anywhere in the area.

This list features some of my favorite easy and doable day trips, including small towns, beaches, hiking areas, cultural points of interest and historic sites. These day trip ideas are in Upstate NY, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut and Pennsylvania.

I hope you enjoy this list, which features day trips I’ve taken through the years and some hidden gems for getaways from the city.

A person sitting on a dock in New York City at sunset.

NYC day trips to Upstate NY

When New Yorkers or visitors think of “day trip ideas from NYC,” most think of “Upstate New York. It’s an obvious choice for any of the northbound train lines, bus routes or highways.

Upstate New York is a vast region that stretches all the way to Canada. As for my “day trip” ideas, we’ll be sticking to any locations at less than a two-hour drive from Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens.

If you find a flight to Upstate NY for your trip and you plan on sticking around the region, consider the upstate Stewart Airport, which we detail in our guide to how to pick the best NYC airport to fly into .

It doesn’t matter which time of year you’re visiting NYC because Upstate NY offers special experiences throughout every season.

A close-up of yellow flowers in the grass in NYC.

Beacon! Beacon surged in popularity in the 2000s and has become a destination of its own for day trippers, weekenders and road trippers. Best of all, Beacon is a town in the Hudson Valley that is conveniently located on Metro North, and it’s also a 1.5-hour easy drive from NYC.

What’s there to do in Beacon, NY, for a day trip? We outline this in our Beacon weekend travel guide . You can see art at dia:Beacon, a fun and vibrant food and bar scene, views of the sunset on the Hudson River and nearby hikes at the Beacon Fire Tower trail.

A woman standing in front of a large white canvas in NYC.

Poughkeepsie is a Hudson Valley town that would be a stretch for a day trip, but once you get there, there are lots of attractions that can fill up a day if you leave NYC early and come back late. You’ll also feel like you really got away! It’s about 1 hour and 40 min by driving, to NYC.

The main attraction in Poughkeepsie is the Walkway Over the Hudson, an elevated pedestrian-only bridge that is actually a New York State Park. This long bridge has panoramic views of the Hudson River, and when you finish your walk, stop by any of Poughkeepsie’s Mexican restaurants for a bite.

A hilltop building in NYC overlooking a body of water.

New Paltz is a ‘crunchy’ and sort of hippie-dippie town in the Hudson Valley on the west side of the Hudson River, known for the NY State University of New Paltz (SUNY New Paltz) and a small-town vibe.

The town is very walkable, with food offerings like breweries, a smattering of cafes and Vietnamese food. There are also some historic locations from 18th century Huguenot settlers. To drive from NYC, it’s about 90 minutes flat.

Cold Spring

Cold Spring is a charming pastel Hudson Valley town with a walkable downtown, Hudson River views at a riverside park and a slew of antique shops for some proper antiquing. If you walk down the side streets, you’ll see charming restored historic homes.

Cold Spring is indeed quite small, and so you can explore the entire town and nearby hikes, if you have a car. If you wish to come by train, simply take MetroNorth from Grand Central Station or from Harlem, to the Cold Spring station. The drive is less than 1 hour and 20 min from NYC.

An American flag flies on a street in New York, NYC.

Storm King Art Center

Storm King has for many years been a big bucket list item for New Yorkers, and for good reasons! Storm King is located not too far outside the city, with the closest actual town being New Windsor, NY. Check out the Storm King webste to plan your trip.

Storm King is a 500-acre open-air sculpture and art park, where visitors can roam around, take photos, enjoy the greenery or foliage (in fall) and enjoy on-site bike rentals and the cafe. It’s a great spot for a photo op with friends and family. Storm King will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes driving from NYC.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve

Clocking in at just under two hours via driving from Brooklyn and Manhattan, the Minnewaska State Park Preserve is a lovely natural destination in the very lower tip of the Catskill Mountains . It’s a favorite day trip destination for New Yorkers due to being easily driveable and back, in a single day.

Minnewaska State Park Preserve has 25 miles of hiking trails alone, and is best known for waterfalls, cliff views and wildlife and birding. You’ll surely get your fill of nature here, and you can go back to the urban jungle to sleep at night. Keep in mind that it’s a 1 hour 50 minute drive from NYC.

When visiting nature preserves remember to be a sustainable traveler by following our favorite eco-friendly travel tips like bringing your own reusable snack containers and leaving no trace of your waste.

Clarence Fahnestock State Park

We found ourselves in Clarence Fahnestock State Park during a trip up to Fishkill, Garrison and Cold Spring one summer, and it was a pleasant state park stop on a trip when we otherwise saw lots of river views and small towns. The drive should be about 1 hour and 15 min from NYC!

If you mention this long-winded park name to anyone, they probably will never have heard of it, and that’s the nice part about it. Clarence Fahnestock State Park is by no means a bucket list item, but you will find yourself in acres and acres of green forest, where there’s also lakes with small beaches, campgrounds, picnic areas and fishing areas.

A man walking through the woods near NYC with a backpack.

Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is one of the most famous hiking destination day trips from NYC, and it’s a spectacular place to visit for a day from spring to autumn (in fact, my parents just went to Bear Mountain as a day trip from Northern NJ).

Bear Mountain is located on the west side of the Hudson, not too far up in Rockland County, NY, which is across the river from Westchester County. Driving to Bear Mountain from Brooklyn or Manhattan would take you a dab over an hour with no traffic!

If you do visit in winter, you can do activities like cross-country skiing, sledding and ice skating, all within the Bear Mountain State Park areas. For the drive, budget about 1 hour and 20 min from NYC (with no traffic).

Harriman State Park

Harriman State Park, if driven with no traffic, could potentially take you even less than one hour if coming from within NYC. It’s a state park located in Rockland County, and it is known for beautiful wildlife, with 22 miles of hiking trails, along with horseback trails and biking trails.

A map of NYC is displayed on a wooden door.

Here’s a secret: it’s the second-largest state park in all of New York State, and that’s your factoid of the day. The only larger state park is the Adirondack Park up north, near Canada.

Our best tip for day trippers to Harriman State Park is to bring your own food and lots of water, as there aren’t many accessible stores, even as you exit, for at least a few miles. Also, bring sunscreen and hats, as the starts of some hikes are full of sun without shade.

Dater Mountain Nature Park

We bet you’ve never heard of Dater Mountain Nature Park, unless you’re from Rockland County or northern NJ. Dater Mountain Nature Park is located near Ramapo, and Sloatsburg, NY, and believe it or not, this natural area is home to 31 lakes and beaches, with hiking for all skill levels.

At just a dab over an hour’s drive from NYC, it is a great idea for a day trip if you wish to get into nature and get your hiking boots worn in.

Day trip ideas for New Jersey

Don’t roll your eyes at the mention of New Jersey, because there’s more to the Garden State than I-95 and Newark Airport. If you’d like to be pleasantly surprised by all the day trips from NYC to New Jersey, read this list and then you’ll believe we told ya so.

At a little over an hour’s drive from NYC, Princeton, NJ, is a destination in central New Jersey where you can visit the famed Princeton University, the campus of which is a striking place to walk around, take photos and admire architecture.

Princeton itself is a charming town with a walkable downtown, including bars, restaurants, shopping and historic sites. Princeton also has a train station on New Jersey Transit (NJT) train lines, and Amtrak.

Maplewood is a cool northern NJ town easily accessible both on NJ Transit trains and via car from NYC. It has a small city vibe with an array of restaurants, places to eat and small shops, and easily-accessible natural surroundings you can visit with a car, such as South Mountain Reservation (for hiking) and the South Mountain Fairy Trail.

Maplewood is known for being a town where families from NYC move to raise children. Here, you’ll find a ton of familiy-friendly restaurants, as everyone dines out with their babies, toddlers and kids. The downtown area and the pretty Memorial Park are right next to the train station.

I recommend Maplewood as an easy day trip to see an NJ suburb if you are looking for how to plan a trip to NYC with a baby , especially.

Montclair is a trendy and happenin’ northern NJ town also easily accessible most directly via its several stations on the NJ Transit train lines, which will connect you directly from NY Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan with this small New Jersey City.

Montclair has a state university (Montclair State) and has long been known for cool cafes, several bars, a nice food scene, shopping and the Montclair Art Museum.

You can see more about Jersey City, especially if you’re a runner looking for scenic views, in our NYC best running routes guide .

Fort Lee, NJ, is a more urban-style NJ small city right over the George Washington Bridge from Washington Heights in Manhattan. This being said, you could walk there from Manhattan, if you wanted to. Otherwise, it’s easy to take a bus to Fort Lee, or you can take a quick drive.

In terms of what to do in Fort Lee, NJ on a day trip, the first idea is “eat Asian food.” Fort Lee has one of the larger East Asian populations in all of NJ, making it a destination for Korean food. In fact, there’s so much Korean food in Fort Lee it’s actually overwhelming. We’ll let you choose your favorite place for Korean BBQ and gamjantang .

Hoboken is NJ’s square-mile city, and it’s famous for being the home of Frank Sinatra. This being said, Hoboken is a stone’s throw from Manhattan, and you can get there super quickly on the PATH train. No car is needed!

Once you get to Hoboken for your day trip, it’s nice to walk around the cute downtown and see the restaurants and bars.

Once you’ve eaten and had something to drink, head to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, the can’t-miss piers and waterfront park where you’ll see clear shots of Manhattan and the NYC skyline. If you’re lucky, you may catch some live music, too.

A scenic view of the NYC skyline from the water.

Jersey City

Jersey City is actually quite big, and that is what makes it a good day trip from NYC. In Jersey City alone, there are three PATH stations, with the one we’d suggest getting off at being Grove Street.

Jersey City has its own food scene (try all the Latino food!), bar scene and shopping, along with some very pretty streets with historic brick row houses. Among attractions are Liberty State Park, the Empty Sky Memorial and the Waterfront 9/11 Memorial.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Ellis Island is closer to Jersey City, NJ, than it is to New York?

A view of the NYC skyline at night.

Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Maybe you have heard of the Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and maybe you haven’t, but did you know it was the first federal wildlife area in the US? Wild!

It is now part of the United States National Wildlife Refuge System, and it is located about an hour and a quarter from NYC (probably less, if coming from Manhattan near the tunnels). The Great Swamp is located near Berkeley Heights, NJ, which makes it only 26 miles from Times Square, and perfect for a day trip or half-day trip from NYC.

Did you know that you can walk on boardwalks on the 7,768 acres of this New Jersey oasis? It’ll keep your boots dry if it’s muddy.

Our day trip to the Great Swamp during peak foliage season was quiet and peaceful. For some reason, the main Observation Center was closed for parking, so we found parking at the north end of Long Hill Road and basically had the trails to ourselves on an autumn weekend afternoon. Here’s the website , where you can learn more.

A woman using binoculars in the woods near New York City.

Watchung Reservation

Our favorite hiking trail at Watchung Reservation is the Surprise Lake trail , which takes you around a relaxing lake. The trail itself is rather flat, after a downhill from the parking area (which has pleasantly clean bathrooms!).

We recommend going in the fall for peak foliage season, as the colors of the trees were a real treat.

A woman is holding up a leaf in the woods of New York.

Watchung Reservation is located in Mountainside, NJ, 25 miles from the center of Manhattan, so it would be a 35-40 minute drive with no traffic. We wouldn’t really recommend taking the train and then Ubering because it would be difficulty to get picked up on your return trip, but if you knew someone nearby, the nearest train would be Westfield station or Summit station.

Moss on the ground in NYC.

South Mountain Reservation

South Mountain , as we lovingly refer to it, is one of our favorite “right in our backyard” hiking areas. You even don’t need a car to access the southern “Fairy Trail” and “Locust Grove” start points, as they’re a stone’s throw of walking distance from the Millburn Train station on NJ Transit.

New York City (NYC) South Mountain Recreation Trail Map.

Truly, this may be the best hiking option for NYC day trippers who don’t have a car, as the Locust Grove parking lot, which has four trailheads, is a three-minute stroll from when you get off your train.

Local expert tip: If you choose to spend some time walking around Millburn, eat at the locally-famous Millburn Deli (328 Millburn Ave, Millburn, NJ 07041).

The Fairy Trail is a kid-friendly mostly-flat local favorite that features small handmade birdhouse-sizes “fairy houses” with tiny figurines. Children love this hike, as it’s peaceful and easy, and also pretty short.

A wooden gnome house amidst the woods in New York.

South Mountain Reservation is also accessible from other entrances in South Orange, NJ. If you’re looking for a stroller-friendly hike, check out Crest Drive, a mile-long paved pedestrian-only road originating from the Dog Park. It leads to Washington’s Point, which has some lookouts to the surrounding area. Here is more info, like directions and a visual, on All Trails .

Asbury Park

Asbury Park, NJ, has SO much to do for a day trip from NYC, and can be fun at any time of year!

This coastal New Jersey town will take you an hour and 20 minutes or less if coming from Brooklyn, and if you time your trip right from Penn Station in Manhattan, your NJ Transit ride direct to Asbury Park’s NJT train station would be one hour and 51 minutes, thereby putting it at the under-two-hours mark for mass transit transport.

Asbury Park has a heap of things to do for day trippers and families. In the summer, there’s the beach and the beachfront boardwalk on the Atlantic Ocean, and if the weather is inclement or if you’re coming in spring or fall, check out the vintage shops, restaurants, arcades, casinos and live music venues, which often host concerts and festivals.

For history buffs or gamers, make sure to stop at the Silverball Museum Arcade, which has pinball machines from the 1950s.

Getting to Red Bank, NJ, takes only an hour and 19 minutes from Penn Station, so there are really no excuses to not try a day trip there this year from NYC. If driving from Brooklyn or other parts of Manhattan, you’re looking at a trip not to exceed an hour and 10 minutes (without traffic).

What is Red Bank like for a visit and a day trip? Well, it’s not exactly a beach town, so really, what can you do there? The draw of Red Bank is its great performing arts scene, along with it’s “visual art scene,” which is great for art lovers and fans of gallery culture. Check out fine art galleries, theaters, street art and murals, all in Red Bank’s downtown, before you hit a bistro for sushi and a beer garden for a drink.

Wawayanda State Park

Turning gears to shift to the north, try saying Wawayanda State Park three times fast. It may be quicker to just get in your car or rented vehicle to drive only between an hour and 15 min or an hour and 40 minutes, depending if you are driving from Manhattan or Brooklyn, to get to this state forest at the NJ-NY northern border.

What’s the draw of Wawayanda State Park, besides that its name is super amusing to say? Well, among its whopping 34,350 acres of land and abundance of hiking trails through forest, it hosts 20 miles of the Appalachian Trail, and the top of Wawayanda Mountain has some fantastic views for those who summit.

Try boating, kayaking, fishing, sailing and swimming in warm spring and summer months, along with early fall, in Lake Wawayanda and see the website here .

Day trip ideas for Long Island

Long Island may seem like an obvious choice for day trippers from Queens and Brooklyn, along with anyone coming from Manhattan who has access to the LIRR train lines at Penn Station, or a car of their own.

What’s there to love about Long Island? Probably the fact that the water is never far away, and despite the essential beaches in Long Island that are close enough to the city for day trips, there are some hidden gems, too.

Long Beach is a long-favorited beach day trip for New York City dwellers.

To get to Long Beach from Manhattan, you’re much better off taking the LIRR train from Penn Station, as it will run you about an hour and 35 minutes in total, while taking LIRR from points in Brooklyn such as the Atlantic Ave. terminal or Nostrand Ave. terminal will only take an hour and 22 minutes at best.

Driving would be shorter, between one hour and one hour and 15 minutes, sans traffic.

Long Beach has quite literally, a rather long beach, along with a beach town that’ll slow down your pace of walking and get you a drink in hand at any of the bars, restaurants and pubs in the “State Streets” neighborhood (the streets that have states as names).

This part of town looks like the set of a movie about a beach town, with close-together houses that are home to locals and able to be rented out for a weekend. Head out to Long Beach Boardwalk for stopping at RIPTIDES 11561 and Marvel Frozen Dairy for ice cream.

A beach in NYC with grass and clouds under a blue sky.

Jones Beach

Jones Beach is where my parents took me as a kid, for day trips when we lived in Queens.

Jones Beach is a NY State Park, located on an island in the outer barrier islands of Long Island. That’s a lot of islands.

To get to Jones Beach for a day trip, drive from central Brooklyn for only one hour and 6 minutes, or consider that it will be about an hour and 15 minutes by car, from Midtown Manhattan. There is no public transport that would get you to Jones Beach effectively, so I won’t recommend any.

Once at Jones Beach, take photos of the beach and boardwalk, get your suntan on and go for a swim, and definitely check into the music concert schedule because there are some big bands and famous names that do concerts at Jones Beach Theater.

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve

This NY State Park in Lloyd Harbor, NY, is a bit of a different day trip and one you may not expect. Located only an hour and a half from Times Square and midtown Manhattan, this Long Island English-style estate has nature trails and opportunities to learn about the history of this park on a scenic peninsula.

You can learn about the park preserve here at the website , and more about the Henry Lloyd Manor House, here .

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Sagamore Hill was the home of Theodore Roosevelt on Long Island, and now it is protected by the National Park Service, thereby making it a US National Park! You can verify that on the website, here . It is located near Oyster Bay, NY, and could be a trip of only 45 minutes (at minimum) with no traffic, coming from various central points in New York City.

The park is 83 acres and includes natural areas and historic buildings. The historic site encompasses the life and story of this famous US president, and his family, until his death in 1919. Plan your visit with this helpful information at NPS.gov .

Day trip ideas to Philly or PA

You might not consider that the state of Pennsylvania is day-trippable from NYC, but it’s true: if you take the Amtrak to Philly (and cut traffic out of your disturbances), you could be in Philadelphia’s downtown in 1.5 hours if you leave from NY Penn Station at 33rd Street in Manhattan.

Philadelphia: where do we start? Philly is ironically so close yet so far, making it a funny little idea of a day trip from NYC. When you go to Philly, make sure to visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell and Rittenhouse Square, and then do some favors for yourself by avoiding the tourists and going local, to check out neighborhoods like Fishtown, Northern Liberties and South Street.

A row of houses with shutters on the front door.

For a visit to New Hope, you will need a car, but that should not stop you from going. New Hope is a charming Delaware River village with funky shopping, a restaurant and dining scene of its own, a theater and cultural landmarks, all in a 1.5-hour drive from NYC (even from Brooklyn), if you do not hit traffic.

Among the best things to do in New Hope, PA, for a day trip from NYC are checking out the orchards, the Delaware Canal, Parry Mansion and the New Hope Railroad.

Day trip ideas to Connecticut

Don’t forget about Connecticut as a state you can travel to on a day trip from NYC this year. Parts of Southern Connecticut are closer to NYC proper than many parts of Upstate NY and New Jersey, without question. Where can you go for a day trip from NYC, in Connecticut?

Do you have slightly more time on your hands than a single day? Consider a trip up to Litchfield County in northwestern Connecticut, for staying a night and experiencing the region!

Norwalk is a nice small city located off the Metro North train line, which you can hop on from Grand Central Station in Manhattan. Why go to Norwalk for a day? You can go to sights like the Sheffield Island Lighthouse, Lockwood-Matthews Mansion House, and Calf Pasture Beach, ending your day with any of the restaurants and bars like Match, Herb’s Place, Pontos Taverna and Pasquale’s Osteria.

Driving to Norwalk, CT, from a central point like Times Square will only take a few minutes over an hour without traffic, and on the train, travel just one hour and 16 minutes with a Metro North train trip.

Stamford is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after small cities in the US, so let’s see why. With a day trip to Stamford, you can see “small city” life in this NY Metro Area suburb that is actually a city of its own in Connecticut. With sights to see like the Stamford Museum and Nature Center, Cove Island Park, and the Bartlett Arboretum, you can do so much with a day trip to Stamford.

When you’re ready to wind down and see the food and drink scene in Stamford, check out Half Full Brewery, Lock City Brewing Company, Taj and Olio.

Getting to Stamford will take an hour and 30 minutes on the New Haven line of Metro North, or, less than an hour by car (if coming from most points in Manhattan).

Greenwich, CT, is one of the most beautiful towns in America, in my opinion, and it is great for a day trip to a quaint upscale town with a location on the Long Island Sound and a pristine downtown area.

It’s easy to spend a day trip in the immediate area of Greenwich’s town, doing some shopping and restaurant-visiting, and its nearby attractions, such as the Greenwich Point Park, Greenwich Audubon Center, and Great Captain’s Island & Little Captain’s Island.

To get to Greenwich, take the New Haven Metro North Line for only an hour and 10 minutes or so, and you can also drive from Manhattan or Brooklyn, which would be between 55 and 70 minutes without traffic.

Mianus River Park

Mianus River Park is a natural park area in Fairfield County, CT, and to drive there, it’ll take around an hour from Manhattan and less than 1h20m from Brooklyn, depending where. It’s located only 40 miles from Midtown Manhattan, so it’s the perfect distance for a single-day getaway.

Mianus River Park is described as a deciduous forest of hardwood trees and varied flora and fauna, and is a nice stop on a day trip to one of the small southern Connecticut towns above, or a trip of its own, as you can see the 4.9-mile trail to hike on the popular hiking website AllTrails . It is open from sunrise to sunset, and did you know that the wetlands breed salamanders and frogs? Also, watch out for snakes! (not a joke)

Did you make it through this list? Now you’re armed with places to go for day trips and side trips, which are some crucial parts of what to know before traveling to NYC .

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best unique and fun day trips to take from NYC this year, whether by car, train, bus, bike or rental car. Never stop day tripping!

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The exterior of the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, one of the best Virginia day trips. It is a large brick building with a large ornate crest on a cream wall at the very front of it. There is a tower in the middle and several chimneys. It is surrounded by a green garden with shrubs.

15 Interesting Virginia Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns And More!)

July 30, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you looking for interesting Virginia day trips? Then you’ve come to the right place! This list is full of some of the best day trips in Virginia. Virginia is a gorgeous Southern state that is full of fun and unique things to do. It is especially awesome if you are a history buff. So much of Virginia’s history is tied into the history of the forming of the United States of America and some of the country’s earliest presidents.

Even if American history isn’t really your thing, we guarantee there is something fun in Virginia for you to enjoy. Some of these day trips in Virginia are centered around its natural beauty, while others highlight the unique history of the state. We’ve also included some fun day trips in Virginia for families as well as fun day trips in Virginia for couples.

We’ve also made sure to include interesting and fun Virginia day trips for the history buffs, outdoor lovers, and thrill-seekers. Virginia truly does have something for everyone! So, let’s take a look at 15 interesting Virginia day trips!

A black sign on the side of the road surrounded by trees. The sign has a red heart on it and says 'Welcome to Virginia. Virginia is for lovers'. The letters are white.

Assateague Island National Seashore

For those looking for Virginia day trips that are fun for the whole family, consider taking a trip to Assateague Island National Seashore . Assateague Island is a portion of National Park that is in both Maryland and Virginia. If you want to make this an extended trip and go camping at Assateague, you’ll need to go to the Maryland portion of the park. Assateague Island is best known for its abundance of wild horses roaming the park.

However, if you are just going for a fun day on the National Seashore, you’ll find plenty to do in the Virginia portion of the National Park. If you are thinking of visiting during the summer months you can expect to see wild foals along with wild horses. You can also go swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. When you visit the seashore during the colder months, you’ll still be able to see wild horses, and you may even still be able to enjoy some watersports. There are also hiking and biking trails and you can of course walk along the seashore. It’s easily one of the best day trips in Virginia for families

A wild horse that is tan with a dark brown mane and tail. The horse is standing on a sandy beach with some grassy patches in it. The sky is clear blue with no clouds. It is one of the best Virginia day trips.

Monticello is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg. It is also one of the best Virginia day trips for history buffs. For those that don’t know, Monticello was the primary home and plantation of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was a founding father and also served as the third President of the United States. It is important to remember when visiting Monticello that it was a plantation and Jefferson did have enslaved peoples working on the property. Please be respectful of that history if you go to tour the home.

When you visit Monticello, you’ll find that they do not try to hide the plantation’s dark past. Instead, you will learn about slavery at the time and how Jefferson profited immensely from this dark practice. As you tour Monticello, you will be reminded that it was built on the backs of enslaved peoples.

This is set against the backdrop of learning about Jefferson and his family life while living in the home. It is often an eye-opening way to look at the history of one of the Founding Fathers. You’ll see how that history has shaped the United States of America as a whole. We guarantee you will leave Monticello having learned something new and impactful.

A brick plantation style building that has white trim and a white roof. In front of the house there are yellow, red, and orange tulips planted. The sky is blue. It is Thomas Jefferson's famous Monticello.

Luray Caverns

If you are looking for one of the best day trips from Richmond, head to Luray Caverns . The Luray Caverns have been a popular tourist attraction in Virginia since the cave system was found in 1878. Now, it is one of the most popular attractions in Virginia for those who want to walk down into the depths of Virginia’s underground cave systems. Because it is so popular, you’ll want to make sure you plan to get tickets ahead of time, or have a flexible schedule so you can get tickets for whatever time slots are still available the day of your visit.

The tickets range in price and depend on your age. The caverns also offer various discounts. Luray Caverns are the largest caverns in the Eastern United States and you’ll find some truly spectacular underground rock formations.

The walkways along the tour are all paved and lighted. You’ll walk through a cavern room with a ceiling that is ten stories high, optical illusion rooms, and layers of folded rock. It is called the Geologist Hall of Fame, and once you step foot in the caverns you’ll easily see why.

The inside of a massive cavern in Virginia. There are tall rock formations that make up the cavern in different shades of brown and yellow, and occasionally green. There is a brick walkway winding through the caverns.

Colonial Williamsburg

One of the coolest historical places in Virginia is Colonial Williamsburg . It is also one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. When you need a break from the sandy shores, you can’t go wrong with a quick trip to Colonial Williamsburg. At Colonial Williamsburg, you’ll find the World’s Largest Living History Museum. As you walk all through the Colonial town you’ll find reenactors posing as people who would have originally lived there.

It is a full-scale working village with a blacksmith, potter, baker, brickmaker, farms, and other shops that would have been included in a typical Colonial town. At each one, you’ll find a skilled reenactor who will tell you about the process for creating their goods and wares during the Colonial period. There are also shops where you can purchase the products that are made right there in town. You’ll also find restaurants with delicious period-accurate food, guided walking tours, and even guided ghost tours. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Virginia in one day and a really fun day trip from Virginia Beach.

The exterior of the Governor's Palace in Colonial Williamsburg, one of the best Virginia day trips. It is a large brick building with a large ornate crest on a cream wall at the very front of it. There is a tower in the middle and several chimneys. It is surrounded by a green garden with shrubs.

The Poe Museum

Edgar Allan Poe lived in a few Southern cities and one of those is Richmond Virginia. In Richmond, you can learn more about Poe’s life in Virginia at The Poe Museum . It is where Poe started his literary career and he spent a lot of his life in Richmond writing. Although he moved to Baltimore at the end of his life before his mysterious death, Richmond is where he called home the longest.

The Richmond Poe Museum is one of many Poe Museums in the United States. What makes it different, and one of the most interesting Virginia day trips, is its collection. The Poe Museum in Richmond has the largest collection of Poe artifacts in the world. Inside you can see Poe’s childhood bed, several articles of his clothing, and personal letters. You can also see the famous image of Poe known as the Cornwell Daguerreotype. You can even see a lock of Poe’s hair! It is one of the best day trips from Richmond and is a really cool way to learn about one of America’s most famous authors.

The courtyard in the Poe Museum in Richmond. There is a walkway with a fountain, a bench, and a pot of purple and white flowers. There is grass, shrubs, and a brick enclave that has a bust of Edgar Alan Poe.

Shenandoah National Park And The Skyline Drive

The Shenandoah National Park is one of the best day trips from Northern Virginia. You’ll also be close to Charlottesville, so it’s a great option for day trips from Charlottesville as well. It is one of Virginia’s most beautiful landscapes full of waterfalls, iconic mountains, and gorgeous fields of wildflowers and grasses. If you don’t have a lot of time on your day trip in Virginia, take Skyline Drive. The Skyline Drive takes you through Virginia’s section of the Appalachian Mountains through Shenandoah National Park and eventually meets the Blue Ridge Parkway.

As you travel on Skyline Drive you’ll be able to stop into cute Virginia small towns, admire the view at scenic overlooks, and even go hiking. It’s one of the best National Parks in Virginia. It easily welcomes millions of visitors all year to enjoy its stunning views and landscapes. One of the best times to go is during the Peak Season. This is when the Fall foliage in Shenandoah is at its peak. It’s a beautiful time to visit, but because of that, it can get very busy. So keep that in mind when you plan your Shenandoah National Park drive .

The view looking down into a valley at Shenandoah National Park. The mountains are covered in trees and you can see some boulders right on the edge of the mountain. The sun is setting so the sky is yellow, orange, and blue.

Busch Gardens

Busch Gardens is one of the best day trips from Richmond for families and thrill-seekers. For those that don’t know, Busch Gardens is a fun amusement park that is very popular. Busch Gardens is also a great option for day trips from Williamsburg. It is technically in Williamsburg, but it’s a bit outside of the city center.

There are a few Busch Gardens parks in the US, and the one in Virginia has a European theme. So as you walk from ride to ride you’ll feel like you’re walking through quaint European villages. A lot of the food vendors and souvenir shops are also full of European influences.

It is also one of the best day trips in Virginia for families. There are plenty of rides and cool things to do in the park that the kids will love. There is also a waterpark, a petting zoo, and throughout the park, during the day you’ll find animal exhibits. For the adults, there is plenty to do as well. Every year the amusement park hosts an epic Oktoberfest celebration.

It is also one of the few amusement parks in the US where you can buy alcohol throughout the day, all year. That’s because the park is owned by Anheuser-Busch, the beer bottling company. No matter your age, you’ll find that Busch Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Virginia in one day.

People walking down a brick path surrounded by buildings that look like they belong in an old European Village. There are flags hanging from the buildings and trees behind them. One of the best Virginia day trips.

The Blue Ridge Parkway

If you are close to Charlottesville and looking for something fun to do, consider taking a drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway . The Blue Ridge Parkway is a stretch of road that starts in Virginia and continues down into North Carolina. It follows the Appalachian Mountains, and in particular, the Blue Ridge Mountains within the Appalachian Mountain range. It’s one of the best day trips from Charlottesville if you want to see some spectacular views.

Depending on where you hop onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, it’s also a great place to add to your list of day trips from Roanoke. All along the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find scenic overlooks , easy to difficult hiking trails , cascading waterfalls, and so much more. Depending on how much time you have, you can even venture into North Carolina and drive the parkway for a bit before heading back towards Richmond. As you drive the parkway you can stop in some cute small towns if you’re not up for a more adventurous day trip in Virginia.

A view of the mountains and valleys in the Blue Ridge Parkway. The mountain tops have a blue tint to them in the distance and the sun is setting so the sky is purple, yellow, and orange.

Mill Mountain Star And Park

One of the most famous attractions in Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star. The Mill Mountain Star can be found in Mill Mountain Park and is easily one of the best things to do in Roanoke when you visit. It also makes for one of the best day trips from Roanoke since it’s not necessarily right in the city center.

The Mill Mountain Star is a 90-foot star-shaped structure that lights up. It’s sort of like the Hollywood sign of Roanoke. It has been lighting up the mountainside since the 1950s, so it’s become a pretty iconic piece of Roanoke history. At the Star, you’ll get to see some beautiful views of the city of Roanoke.

Because the Mill Mountain Star is located in a public park, you’ll find other things to do there as well. At the park, you can go hiking, and you’ll need to do a little hiking if you want to get up close to the Star. But there is also a zoo, playground, Discovery Center, and a native wildflower garden. It is one of the best day trips in Virginia for families, but it’s also fun for all ages.

Looking up at a large metal star that lights up on the side of a mountain. You can see trees around the star and a blue sky with clouds in it. One of the best Virginia day trips.

George Washington National Forest

The George Washington National Forest is one of the best National Parks in Virginia . It is also one of the best options for day trips from Richmond if you’re looking to escape the city. It’s a popular camping weekend getaway in Virginia , but it can easily be a fun day trip in Virginia as well. Because it is close to Richmond, it’s one of the more popular National Parks in Virginia, so keep that in mind when you are planning your day trip. Depending on the season, you may encounter more crowds.

The park includes miles of hiking and biking trails and there are also lakes and rivers. In the Summer months, you can enjoy watersports in the lakes in rivers, like swimming, kayaking, and boating. There are also certain trails where you can go horseback riding. One of the coolest things to do in the National Forest is going hang gliding. It’s the perfect activity for the thrill-seekers looking for just a little extra jolt of fun at the George Washington National Forest. Of course, the forest is gorgeous in the Fall and you can still enjoy a ton of activities in the forest in Winter and Spring.

An aerial view of the George Washington National Forest in the Fall. The trees are covered in green, yellow, orange, and red leaves for miles. You can see a road winding through the trees every so often.

Barboursville Ruins And Winery

Barboursville was once one of the finest are largest private residences in Virginia. But on Christmas Day in 1884, a devastating fire ripped through the home and almost completely destroyed it. Since that day in 1884, Barboursville has been preserved as ruins and is one of the best day trips from Charlottesville. What makes it so special is that is the only known structure in Orange County, where it is located, to be designed by Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson was the third President of the United States and a prominent member of Virginia society, both before and after his presidency.

The ruins are registered as National Historic Places and are actually one of the day trips in Virginia for couples. That is because the ruins are now home to one of the best wineries in Virginia. The Barboursville Winery was established on the ground in 1976 and has since become a well-recognized winery by wine connoisseurs. You’ll find the tasting room and visitors center just steps from the Barboursville Ruins.

On the grounds, you’ll also find a restaurant that is perfect for one of the prettiest romantic day trips in Virginia. You and your partner can enjoy a day exploring the historic grounds, taste award-winning wines, and enjoy a delicious meal. In the Summer, you can also catch ‘Shakespeare in the Ruins’. A local Shakespeare performing company uses the ruins of Barboursville as a stage. The play changes yearly, so you can come back for a different experience every year. The Barboursville ruins are definitely one of the best day trips in Virginia for Couples and easily one of the most romantic day trips in Virginia.

The ruins of a mansion that burnt down in 1884 in Virginia. The home was originally designed by Thomas Jefferson. You can see the brick exterior, four pillars made of brick and plaster, and trees and shrubs around it.

Historic Jamestown and Yorktown

On your list of day trips from Williamsburg , you absolutely need to add a trip to Historic Jamestown and Yorktown. You can drive about 30 minutes outside of Williamsburg and end up in Historic Jamestown or Yorktown, which is part of the ‘Historic Triangle’ in Virginia. Because they are all so close together, we suggest making this a historic tour day trip from Williamsburg. Start in Historic Jamestown, which was originally founded in 1607 by European immigrants.

Jamestown was the first permanent settlement in America for those making the journey from various countries in Europe. You’ll find a living history museum, similar to Colonial Williamsburg, but on a smaller scale. There is also a reconstructed Native American village alongside a Colonial fort, so you can see how Native Americans and European immigrants would have lived in the early 1600s in the area.

In Yorktown, there is another similar site. However, Yorktown wasn’t founded until 1691, over 80 years later. You’ll notice some similarities, but also plenty of differences as generations learned what did and didn’t work in the area. The town is probably best known as the site of the Battle of Yorktown in 1781. It’s where the American Revolution is said to have finally ended, with the surrender of English General Cornwallis. While you are in Yorktown, you can tour the battlefield as well as the American Revolution Museum. A journey to the two historic cities is one of the best day trips from Williamsburg.

A structure made out of logs that looks like it's the frame of a building. It has sand underneath it and you can see a fence made of the same types of logs. You can also see an old canon that is next to a path on the beach.

Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

The Harpers Ferry National Historic Park is actually in three states; West Virginia, Maryland, and Virginia. Depending on what you’re interested in, the different states offer different experiences. The Maryland section is mainly hiking trails and scenic views along the Potomac River.

West Virginia and Virginia share the section of the park that has some really cool historic buildings. Harpers Ferry is truly one of the best small towns in West Virginia that you should explore.

Because of its location, it’s a great option for day trips from Northern Virginia.

Just like so many other places to visit in Virginia in one day, the National Historic Park is bursting with history. You’ll find a historic town with 19th-century buildings and see what it was like to live in a port town. There are living history events, local artisans, and more. You’ll also find hiking and biking trails as well as enjoy watersports like swimming, kayaking, and boating.

Keep in mind that when you are planning your trip, you may find that the trailheads or destinations you have in mind may be across the border in either Maryland or West Virginia. Either way, it’s still one of the most fun day trips in Virginia.

Make sure to check out our list of things to do in Harpers Ferry!

An aerial view of Harpers Ferry. You can see a bridge going across a river that leads to a small town on the side of a hill. The hillside is covered in trees with no leaves, or yellow and orange leaves. You can see the river in the distance running between the hills.

Mariners’ Museum And Park

If you’re looking for interesting day trips in Virginia for families, consider a day at the Mariners’ Museum and Park. It is close to Virginia Beach, so it’s one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach. The Mariners’ Museum is in Newport News which is just about an hour inland, so you won’t have to travel too far to learn about Virginia’s interesting maritime history.

Throughout the museum, you’ll find exhibits that are interesting to both the youngest and oldest members of the family. On certain days of the week, kids can enjoy storytime with a maritime theme. There are also hands-on exhibits, crafts, and more that they can do while they are learning about Virginia’s maritime history.

There are also plenty of more in-depth exhibits for the older members of the family. One of the coolest areas of the museum is the gallery of Ship Models that show popular ship designs through the centuries. The Mariners Park is free to the public and is considered to be a beautiful woodland oasis. Inside the park, you can stroll along the popular Nolan Trail, admire nature, or stop for a picnic lunch at the Lions bridge. Mariners’ Museum and Park are absolutely one of the best day trips in Virginia for families!

The exterior of the Mariners' Museum in Virginia. It is a white building with lots of windows, and there is a tall statue with a model ship on top of it. You can also see shrubs, tall grasses, and an antique canon.

Cape Henry Lighthouse

Thanks to popular novels, lighthouses have become an almost romantic iconic image along the sandy shores of any beach town. If you’re looking for some romantic day trips in Virginia, you and your partner can spend the day exploring the historic lighthouse at Cape Henry. The Cape Henry Lighthouse is within 15 minutes of Virginia Beach, which also makes it one of the best day trips from Virginia Beach for you and your partner to take.

At the Cape Henry Lighthouse, you can take a tour of the lighthouse, climb up to the top, and explore the grounds around the lighthouse as well. The lighthouse is one of the oldest in the country and was commissioned by George Washington with Alexander Hamilton overseeing its building. It was built close to where European immigrants first landed before establishing the Jamestown colony. If you are looking for day trips in Virginia for couples who like a little bit of history and the beach. It’s also one of the most interesting Virginia day trips.

Looking through some trees and shrubs at a beach that has a tall black and white lighthouse on it. Near the lighthouse you can see several white buildings with red rooves. Past the buildings there are tall dunes covered in grass and then you can see the ocean.

With so much history and culture in the state, it is easy to make a list of fun places to visit in Virginia in one day. We hope you enjoyed this list of unique historic sites, hidden gems, and small towns that are spread throughout the beautiful state. You can’t go wrong taking a day to explore these amazing spots on your next Virginia day trip.

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29 top cheap weekend getaways in the u.s..

Weekend getaways are often cheaper by default – especially in these destinations.

Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

A couple poses for a nature selfie in Asheville, North Carolina.

Jason Tarr | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best places for an affordable weekend escape.

Sometimes you just need to escape from your everyday routine – but you may not have weeks (or funds) on end to spend away from home. For those seeking a quick, affordable trip, we've compiled a variety of cheap weekend getaways across the U.S., organized by region so you can find something within driving distance to keep costs low (or further afield if you're up for the journey).

Top Regional Destinations:

Burlington, vermont.

Church Street Marketplace in Burlington, lined with historic buildings, at night.

Getty Images

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Burlington, Vermont – especially since the best ways to experience it are low-cost or free. Rent bikes and go for a ride on the Burlington Bike Path, which later becomes the Island Line Trail – a stunning pathway over Lake Champlain. You can also stroll Church Street Marketplace, where the Burlington Farmers Market is hosted on Saturdays; sample sweets at Lake Champlain Chocolates; and enjoy a craft beer tasting or two.

Niagara Falls, New York

Niagara Falls including American Falls in foreground and Horseshoe Falls in background, with autumn leaf colors

There's no cost to visit this iconic landmark , and if you want to get up close, you'll find several affordable tours of Niagara Falls – namely boat rides that'll get you up close to the roaring waters. A visit to Niagara Falls, New York, also omits the cost (and hassle) of getting or renewing a passport . Free and low-cost things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking state parks and sampling vinos along the Niagara Wine Trail.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Cheap weekend getaways

You can enjoy an affordable weekend in Atlantic City – provided you steer clear of (or don't spend too much time at) the casinos. Instead, explore the beach and boardwalk, whose roots date back to 1870. Other budget-friendly things to do in Atlantic City including visiting Absecon Lighthouse (the tallest in New Jersey) and Lucy the Elephant. If you come here for a romantic getaway , treat yourself and your partner to dinner on the waterfront.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

"Factory Falls, Delaware Water Gap Recreational Area, Poconos, Pennsylvania"

Spend as much or as little as you like in the Pocono Mountains. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the region's terrain affords a variety of free and low-cost activities amid beautiful scenery, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park offer some of the best camping for those who'd like to keep lodging costs low, though you can also find affordable vacation rentals in the area.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

A family explores Gettysburg National Military Park.

Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park (which also comprises the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center) is free to visit, and there's no cost to explore the Civil War battlefields with a national park ranger. Gettysburg ghost tours – a must for anyone who's interested in the area's haunted history – are relatively affordable, too, as are local hotels , which include options under $200 and $100 per night.

Farm Sanctuary: Watkins Glen, New York

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes region of New York is part animal sanctuary, part country retreat – and an ideal location for a weekend escape from New York City . Travelers eager for a break can book a tiny home or cabin and spend time with more than 500 rescued farm animals in Watkins Glen. Nightly rentals start at $250 per night (plus a $25 membership fee) for up to two people in May through December, and include a special tour each morning of your stay. Sample the region's signature rieslings and chardonnays at some of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes during your visit, or hike to waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park .

Address: 3150 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park, South Dakota

Cheap weekend getaways

This area of the U.S. is home to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the fascinating caverns of Wind Cave, making it easy to see several iconic attractions in one jaunt. To save on entry fees, consider the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Priced at $80, it provides access to all national parks and federally protected lands in the U.S., so you'll likely be able to use it for another trip down the road, too.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari ranks among the most affordable amusement parks in the U.S., in part because of its free parking and modest lodging costs. The amusement park also offers complimentary family-friendly perks with admission, including sunscreen and soft drinks.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

Wisconsin Dells is home to myriad water park resorts – many of which combine water park admission and overnight lodging in one rate. Other attractions in Wisconsin Dells include a Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, a bustling downtown and plenty of gorgeous scenery marked by unique rock formations. You can frequently find hotel and attraction discounts on the Wisconsin Dells tourism bureau's website ; keep in mind for any family trips that the best prices are typically available when kids are in school.

Branson, Missouri

The sun sets over Branson, Missouri.

Courtesy of Explore Branson

Table Rock Lake State Park, where you can swim, canoe, kayak, fish, hike and bike, as well as Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fountain show at night, are among the free attractions in Branson, Missouri . You can also ride a free trolley around town from March to December. The most expensive activity in Branson might be a visit to Silver Dollar City, though you can often find deals on tickets, like discounted evening rates in the fall. For affordable lodging in Branson , try the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel , which often lists rates around $100 per night.

Indianapolis, Indiana

A father and daughter look at art on the Monon Trail in Indianapolis, Indiana, while a woman bikes in the foreground.

Courtesy of Visit Indy

There are a variety of free things to do in Indianapolis , including the Monon Trail, which connects downtown Indy to the Carmel area, with shops and restaurants along the way; the 250-acre White River State Park, perfect for a picnic lunch; and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which connects the city's public spaces. On the first Thursday of every month, the Newfields Art Museum offers free admission (and whether or not you go to the museum, the grounds alone are worth a visit). In the summer, Concerts on the Canal brings free entertainment to the area – just bring your own blanket or lawn chair.

No matter your budget, a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum is worth the splurge if traveling with kids – it is the largest children's museum in the world.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio

Cheap weekend getaways

Courtesy of Cedar Point

Not only is Cedar Point one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. – and the self-proclaimed Roller Coaster Capital of the World – but a visit here is also relatively cheap when you factor in the affordability of hotels in Sandusky . The Comfort Inn Sandusky , for example, offers free breakfast with rates starting at less than $100 per night. Keep in mind that, as a seasonal attraction, Cedar Point is typically closed from November to early May.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Read: The Top Water Parks in Ohio

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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Washington, D.C.

A panda snacks at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Washington.org

With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in D.C. are expensive, you can still find affordable accommodations on rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Cheap weekend getaways

Gulf Shores boasts more than 30 miles of white sand beaches , making it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast . You don't have to visit during the summer to experience the area's best weather, though: Spring and fall bring temperatures that are still comfortable for sunbathing, swimming and strolling on the sand.

Budget-friendly things to do in Gulf Shores include bike riding at Gulf State Park; casting a line at Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier; exploring The Wharf, an entertainment and shopping venue; and visiting the Orange Beach History Museum and the Gulf Shores Museum, both of which are free. At local hotels like the Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores , nightly rates for apartment-style accommodations and free breakfast currently hover around $100 a night.

Massanutten Resort: Massanutten, Virginia

An ideal weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. , Massanutten Resort offers four-season fun, from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to golf, mountain biking and water park action during warmer months. A la carte fees for many activities allow you to spend as much or as little as you'd like, and while there's a nightly resort fee, it covers access to the indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, sports courts (including pickleball), hiking trails and more. Plus, the resort fee doesn't seem so bad when you consider that townhomes and guest rooms are available for less than $150 a night.

Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840

Asheville, North Carolina

People come together to play music, dance, and enjoy at the Asheville Drum Circle at Pritchard Park in downtown Asheville, North Carolina.

Krista Rossow | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its mix of history (Biltmore Estate), nature (the Blue Ridge Mountains) and food (from craft breweries to a flourishing dining scene). Travelers can tackle a number of hikes in Asheville for some scenic – and low-cost – fun. You can also stroll along the 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail to learn about the city's unique past, go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and explore downtown, where you're bound to come across some of the tiny city's famous street performers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an easy and relatively affordable day trip from Asheville, too.

Bahia Honda Key, Florida

Cheap weekend getaways

You don't have to visit Key West – or break the bank – to experience the best of the Florida Keys; in fact, the best beaches in the Florida Keys are not even in Key West. At Bahia Honda State Park, for example, you can swim, rent kayaks and snorkeling gear, or even hop on a boat to snorkel in the Looe Key marine sanctuary reef. Entry fees at Bahia Honda State Park are $8 per vehicle with two to eight passengers. Plus, you can camp here for just $36 per night (not including tax and the utility and reservation fees). Renting a cabin costs about $120 per night plus fees from May through October, and slightly more in the cooler months.

Read: The Best Places for Camping in Florida

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Cheap weekend getaways

One of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S., Myrtle Beach is known for its roster of low-cost or free activities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Explore the mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (home to the iconic Skywheel) as well as Broadway at the Beach (an entertainment complex), both of which offer live entertainment including music performances and fireworks shows. Vereen Memorial Gardens, just north of the city, is also free to visit. When it comes to Myrtle Beach accommodations , there are affordable options aplenty; the Crown Reef Resort, for example, offers an on-site, year-round water park and rates as low as $92 per night for a family of four.

Polk County, Florida

Bok Tower Gardens in Polk County, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Central Florida

A vacation in Orlando has its time and place, but if you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, head to Polk County instead. Here, you can explore stunning (and free) parks and nature preserves such as Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, as well as Bonnet Springs Park. The park connects several attractions, including a kids treehouse, a rooftop bar, a butterfly house, The Florida Children's Museum, botanical gardens and more. Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park are close by if you decide to splurge on a theme park visit.

New Orleans

Cheap weekend getaways

There are more things to do in New Orleans than you could ever accomplish in a weekend, but you can still enjoy a short and cheap trip to The Big Easy. Ogle the historic houses in the Garden District, stroll along iconic Magazine Street, wander through the French Quarter (where you're bound to see street performers), or stop in a local eatery for a famous po'boy sandwich or beignet. For affordable accommodations in New Orleans , look outside of the French Quarter.

South Padre Island, Texas

A father and daughter fish in South Padre Island, Texas.

Courtesy of South Padre Island CVB

Not only does South Padre Island offer 34 miles of coastline and the cleanest beach water in Texas, but it's also ultra-affordable. Low-cost attractions include Sea Turtle, Inc., which is currently building the world's largest sea turtle hospital, and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of places to enjoy fishing, one of the island's most popular activities. A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site – the last Texas lighthouse open to the public – costs just $5 per adult ($3 for kids). Sandcastle Days, the island's beloved festival that is hosted every October, is also free.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

Cheap weekend getaways

One of the most beautiful national parks in California , Joshua Tree National Park is also fairly affordable thanks to campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks, where you can enjoy the seclusion of the deserted wilderness. There are more than 100 primitive campsites available here, with reservations required in the busy season from September to May; a maximum of six people can occupy a campsite for just $20 per night (on top of fees to enter the park).

San Luis Obispo, California

A woman walks on a nature trail overlooking San Luis Obispo, California.

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL

Combining small-town charm with beautiful weather, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles (about 190 miles from the city). With the plethora of outdoor activities here, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly fun like hiking the area's trails, surfing in the ocean, zip lining or horseback riding. For local flavor, visit the Thursday evening farmers market or dine alfresco at one of many downtown patios. The town's free Concerts in the Plaza series features performances by the area's top artists. Beaches await those seeking relaxation in SLO, while wine lovers can explore the region's Edna Valley wineries.

Cheap weekend getaways

A glitzy getaway in Las Vegas can be yours – and it may be less expensive than you initially imagined. Hotels in Vegas can cost as little as $50 per night on weekdays (plus resort fees), and local attractions like Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Las Vegas Sign and Seven Magic Mountains (just outside the city) are all free to visit. This might just mean you'll have some room in your budget for a casino visit, tickets to one of the city's spectacular shows , and/or a tour of the Grand Canyon .

Sedona, Arizona

A couple mountain bikes on red rocks in Sedona, Arizona.

Courtesy of Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

It won't cost you a penny to visit most attractions in Sedona , including Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Fay Canyon. And while Sedona's spa and wellness resorts are undoubtedly pricey, you can find lodging for less in off-peak months (summer and winter), as well as a variety of vacation rentals year-round.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Arizona

Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

Cheap weekend getaways

The Gros Ventre Wilderness, which is part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, is another natural wonder worth visiting. Plan a weekend here to discover rolling rivers, abundant wildlife, and amazing geological features such as rock formations and natural slides. As for accommodations, travelers can rent the cozy Hoback Guard Station cabin for $80 per night for a party of up to six guests from May to October.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Cheap weekend getaways

Olympic National Park is well worth a weekend visit, whether you want to hike, stargaze or explore its more than 70 miles of untouched Pacific Coast shoreline – which include dog-friendly beaches , if your furry friend wants to come along. While here, visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto Beach. You can even camp within the park for as little as $40 per night for up to 10 people sharing a campsite. Note that you'll have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Hot air balloons rise in the air at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta.

Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque is quirky and fun, with an Old Town that features cobblestone streets and adobe-style buildings and is free to explore. Plan a visit during spring or fall for the best weather, then take advantage of local, low-cost festivals: May brings the New Mexico Wine Festival ($25 or less per ticket) to town, or come autumn, you can stop by the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (around $15 per person) to witness one of the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. Other things to do in Albuquerque include visiting the Petroglyph National Monument, which is free of charge. Opt for a vacation rental rather than a hotel to save some coin.

San Antonio, Texas

Cheap weekend getaways

San Antonio is an affordable Texas destination brimming with cultural flair, historical significance and free activities. There's no cost to visit iconic attractions like the Alamo or the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and you won't pay anything to stroll the famous River Walk (though dining at least once here is a must). Another popular activity, narrated river cruises are also cheap, with tickets for less than $15 per person via local operator GO RIO Cruises.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Cheap Family Vacations
  • The Best Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
  • The Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
  • The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
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Cheap Tropical Vacations

Aerial of Entalula Island Beach Lagoon with typical Filipino Balangay boats.

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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The Greatest Day Trips To Take In Every Southern State

fun day trip

Blessed with mountain ranges, breezy beaches, cool cities, charming small towns , sprawling natural parks, and historical landmarks, the South comes with an impressive bucket list of places to entertain any family, couple, or group of girlfriends from now until forever. In fact, every Southern state has at least one scenic highway to meander on any boring weekend, as well as a unique handful of top attractions and sights worth making a fun-filled day trip. Pack up the pimiento cheese and crank up the classics on the car radio—because we've rounded up the best day trip ideas in every Southern state, ranging from national parks to cultural landmarks to scenic vantage points. Whether you're jumping over state lines or sticking closer to home, these Southern day trips are bound to add a touch of adventure to any humdrum Saturday.

Alabama: The National Memorial for Peace and Justice

Take a day drive down to Montgomery, Alabama's capital city enriched with Southern history, where you'll find groundbreaking new site, The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, and its accompanying Legacy Museum that both serve to educate, remember, and inspire those who walk the grounds. (When first opened, the national memorial attracted 100,000 visitors in its first 10 weeks, if that says how amazing it is.) Back downtown, you can see the bus stop where Rosa Parks waited for a ride that sparked the Civil Rights Movement, as well as the church Martin Luther King Jr. pastored. museumandmemorial.eji.org

Read more: The New National Monument You Must See in Montgomery, Alabama

Arkansas: Hot Springs National Park

This super unique national park deserves a spot on the bucket list, not only for the hot spring waters known to have medicinal properties ( according to old Native American legend ), but also for the pretty hiking trails and views that can be found on the neighboring Ouachita Mountain range. In downtown Hot Springs—the aptly named Arkansas town—you'll find quaint, historically-preserved blocks lined with boutiques, eateries, and bathhouses to fill the rest of your time. Have a soak and consider yourself cleansed and ready for the ride home. nps.gov/hosp

Read more: Why Hot Springs, Arkansas, Belongs on Your Bucket List

Florida: Everglades National Park

Located in South Florida, this national park consists of over 1.5 million acres of wetland just waiting to be explored. Take a short walk on the Anhinga Trail to spot cool wildlife like turtles, herons, and alligators; climb up Shark Valley's 65-foot observation tower for a perfect viewpoint of the famous Everglades ; or paddle amongst the mangroves on Nine-Mile Pond. You might even come across one of Florida's beloved manatees. Many Southerners forget about this national park, but it's actually the largest subtropical wilderness in the country. So basically everywhere you turn, there is something really unique to discover. nps.gov/ever

Read more: The Florida Everglades Are America's Largest Subtropical Wilderness

Georgia: Atlanta Botanical Garden

Peruse the most beautifully kept grounds in all the state of Georgia at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Located near Piedmont Park in Midtown Atlanta, this 30-acre destination is not only home to impressively groomed formal, rose, and Japanese gardens, but also the Kendeda Canopy Walk, which is a 600-foot-long skywalk that allows visitors to tour one of the city's last remaining urban forests from around 40 feet in the air through the treetops of the Storza Woods. Hint: It's even more stunning when draped in thousands of twinkling lights during Christmastime. atlantabg.org

Kentucky: Buffalo Trace Distillery

This landmark Kentucky distillery has been around since its founding in 1792, which means it's got some serious bourbon history under its belt. So if you've ever wondered about the tradition and hype behind Kentucky bourbon, this is the place to visit. When able, register for one of the intimate complimentary tours—from their signature tour to bourbon fanatic-focused bourbon barrel tour—meant to show off the impressive Buffalo Trace grounds and teach visitors about how real Kentucky bourbon is made. No matter where you're coming from, you're bound to see some rolling hills and horse farms along the ride. buffalotracedistillery.com

Louisiana: Steel Magnolia House

This iconic home featured in everyone's favorite movie about strong Southern women, Steel Magnolias , isn't just sitting idle and forgotten. It's now been converted to a charming bed and breakfast still reminiscent of the 80s dramedy. Inside, there are six suites named after the characters from the film, like the Shelby Room, which is outfitted in Shelby's (Julia Roberts) "signature" pink complete with a private bath featuring the same tub from one of the opening scenes. Visitors can also count on plenty of antiques and Steel Magnolias memorabilia—from costume sketches to behind-the-scenes photos—to make the trip to Natchitoches extra special. (Make sure to get a famous meat pie before you leave town.) steelmagnoliahouse.net

Read more: Why You Should Plan a Trip to the Steel Magnolia House B&B This Season

Maryland: The United States Naval Academy

Making your way to the breezy coastal town of Annapolis, Maryland, is a fun day trip in its own right. You can meander along centuries-old cobblestone roads, visit historic sites drenched in American history, and grab yourself a crab cake while you're at it. But hands down, the most stunning spot to hit when you're this far up the Eastern seaboard? The Naval Academy. The campus itself is so steeped in history that it's a bonafide National Historic Landmark in its own right. You're able to access the grounds to join a guided tour—or explore on your own—all the larger-than-life classical buildings that await around every corner, like Bancroft Hall (the largest dormitory in the world; and the prettiest, in our opinion) and the Naval Academy Chapel (which is still home to the crypt of the long-lost John Paul Jones). usna.edu

Read more: Experience The Coastal Charm of Annapolis, Maryland, This Summer

Mississippi: Elvis Presley Birthplace

Part of the Mississippi Blues Trail—which already solves all of your road trip planning—this historic museum site is located in Tupelo, Mississippi, birthplace of the king of rock 'n' roll himself. The pitstop includes the shotgun home where Elvis Presley was born in 1935, a museum, a chapel, the church he and his parents worshipped in when he was young, and bronze statues on the grounds that have a likeness to Elvis when he was both a child and at the height of his fame. Even if you're not a huge fan, it's surreal to see a slice of the humble history behind one of the music industry's biggest stars. elvispresleybirthplace.com

North Carolina: Biltmore Estate

This day trip attraction is too big to overlook, which is exactly why it tops North Carolina's list. Originally a mansion belonging to the Vanderbilt family, the Asheville estate was built at the height of the Gilded Age in the 1800s and is now a living museum, inn, winery, and tour destination. (The 8,000-acre backyard is quite the day tour for those driving through town.) Visitors don't need to be staying at The Inn on Biltmore Estate to take in all the beauty and fun things it has to offer. Plus, plenty of hiking trails in the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and cute spots to shop and eat back in downtown Asheville make any quick trip well worth it. biltmore.com

South Carolina: Myrtle Beach Boardwalk and Promenade

If you've never been to the birthplace of the Shag, now's the time to get yourself educated—and learn how to do the dance to real beach music. This classic Southern beach town is home to a 1.2-mile-long boardwalk full of ocean views, beach shops, good eats, and more. Once everything is back in the normal swing of things, head to The Bowery, a Myrtle Beach icon since its opening in 1944, for great live music. Nearby, Huntington Beach State Park makes a natural beach detour to round out the day. Grab a shell or two to take home as a souvenir. myrtlebeachdowntown.com

Read more: The Best Things To Do in Myrtle Beach

Tennessee: Gatlinburg SkyLift Park

The South's first four-season scenic skylift, this Gatlinburg attraction is only one of the reasons that folks are flocking to the classic mountain town in the Smokies. Visitors can be taken from the heart of town 500 feet up to the top of Crockett Mountain, where the new SkyDeck waits with the best views of the Smoky Mountain vistas, as well as the iconic SkyBridge that lets visitors walk the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America. Trust us, it's a photo worth framing. In the summer, this day trip destination offers blue skies and fun hikes; in the fall, you get sweeping fall color; and come Christmastime, the entire SkyBridge gets lit up with thousands of twinkling holiday lights. So basically, there's no bad time to visit. gatlinburgskylift.com

Read more: Experience the Magic of Gatlinburg, Tennessee, the South's Best Mountain Town 2020

Virginia: Colonial Williamsburg

Consider your boredom solved with this day trip to the largest outdoor living history museum in the country. From fun family activities like walking amongst hundreds of restored (or recreated) 18th-century buildings—like the Raleigh Tavern, the Capitol, the Governor's Palace, and the Courthouse—Colonial Williamsburg is an adventure just ready to be taken. All you have to do is get in the car. If you're lucky, you might even catch some costumed Colonial reenactors doing their thing around the grounds. One thing's for sure: You won't get bored. colonialwilliamsburg.org

Read more: Discover the Charm of Williamsburg, Virginia, the South's Best Small Town 2020

West Virginia: New River Gorge Bridge

Perhaps the most well-known sight in all of this nature-filled Southern state, the New River Gorge Bridge is just one photo-worthy opportunity found in the 70,000-plus-acre park. The bridge was originally constructed over 40 years ago to reduce a winding 40-minute drive down the mountain roads to less than a minute, and West Virginians and visitors alike are always grateful for the shortcut. We suggest taking advantage of the vast outdoor activities on your day trip, like hiking, canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. It's time for a wild West Virginia adventure. nps.gov/neri

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Rooted in Ohio

Clifton Mill, Clifton OH

31 Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio | Fun Ohio Day Trips

If you live in Ohio, you know all about Columbus, the state’s largest and capital city. Along with being home to Ohio State University and the Buckeye football team, it’s situated halfway between Cincinnati and Cleveland. This means that day trips from Columbus Ohio are already off to a good start.

Whether you want to go north, south, east, or west, you’re not too far from your next adventure if you start in Columbus. You can take a day trip to do some shopping, explore a new nature walking trail, or check out a new city. Here’s a list of perfect day trips, road trips, and weekend getaways.

31 Best Day Trips from Columbus Ohio

  • Newark (45 minutes from Columbus)
  • Ohio Caverns (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Yellow Springs (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Mansfield (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Malabar Farm State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Cedar Bog Nature Preserve (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Hocking Hills State Park (1 hour from Columbus)
  • John Glenn Astronomy Park (1 hour from Columbus)
  • Kings Island Amusement Park (1.25 hours from Columbus)
  • The Wilds (1.5 hours from Columbus)
  • Miamisburg Mound (1.5 hours from Columbus)
  • Loveland Castle & Museum (1.5 hours from Columbus)
  • Salt Fork State Park (1.5 hours from Columbus)
  • Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum (1.75 hours from Columbus)
  • Cincinnati (1.75 hours from Columbus)
  • Cuyahoga Valley National Park (2 hours from Columbus)
  • Pro Football Hall of Fame (2 hours from Columbus)
  • Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (2.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Chagrin Falls (2.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Cleveland (2.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Cedar Point Amusement Park (2.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Lake Erie Shores & Islands (2.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Newport Aquarium (1.75 hours from Columbus)
  • Fort Wayne (2.75 hours from Columbus)
  • Indianapolis (2.75 hours from Columbus)
  • Ann Arbor (3 hours from Columbus)
  • Pittsburgh (3 hours from Columbus)
  • Louisville (3.25 hours from Columbus)
  • Coopers Rock State Forest (3.5 hours from Columbus)
  • Dunbar (3.5 hours from Columbus)

Ohio Day Trips From Columbus

Check out attractions in newark ohio.

45-minute drive from Columbus

27 Best Spring Things to Do in Ohio

Located just 40 miles from Columbus, Newark is a great spot to go if you’re looking to get out of the city for the day. Fans of quirky landmarks can get an up-close-and-personal look at the world’s largest basket, which actually houses a company headquarters.

The Interesting Works Museum, which is dedicated to Newark’s industrial history, is worth visiting too. Here, you can learn about canal-building and glass blowing, as well as the history of the region. Keep an eye out for ancient earthworks, which were constructed by Native American civilizations in the area.

Also, consider going in early June. Not only will you be able to check out the sites, but you’ll be able to soak in the atmosphere of the Newark Strawberry Festival and nosh on strawberry shortcakes and other delicious dishes.

Experience the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty Ohio

1-hour drive from Columbus

If you’re looking to explore during your next day trip, head northwest to the Ohio Caverns in West Liberty. These Ohio caves are recognized as some of the most colorful in the United States because of their amazing collection of stalagmites, stalactites, and other formations.

If you’re going to go exploring, take a jacket and a camera. The caverns maintain a constant temperature of 54 degrees, and a jacket will keep you comfortable. With your camera, you can get amazing photos of the formations up close and be able to show them to family and friends.

Guided tours lasting about an hour are offered, so be prepared for some walking.

A Trip to Yellow Springs Ohio

There are many fun options for day trips from Columbus Ohio to Yellow Springs. In particular, Young’s Jersey Dairy Farm has excellent ice cream and a restaurant.

fun day trip

You can also visit the  Glen Helen Nature Preserve , which has a nice visitors center, and you can learn about the area as you walk through the pathways. There’s a grotto and some interesting wildlife.

In and around Yellow Springs, is Clifton Ohio with a covered bridge and Historic Clifton Mill . There are less than 100 mills still in existence today, and this is one of them.

fun day trip

What to See in Mansfield Ohio

If you’ve seen “Shawshank Redemption” (if you haven’t, come on it’s a classic), you’ll really enjoy Mansfield. Even if you haven’t seen the movie, this city is very interesting.

The Ohio State Reformatory is fascinating and intriguing. You’re allowed to wander around and freak yourself out with all the nooks, crannies, and peeling wallpaper in every room. The audio guides enrich your time and point out things that you would probably never notice.

For example, there’s an ‘x’ of light that’s made between four doorways that’s always there because of the symmetry of the building. Interesting, but most people don’t notice.

fun day trip

Beware that there’s no heat in the building. We went in February and nearly froze to death. However, we still loved it and can’t wait to visit again.

fun day trip

A Visit in Lucas Ohio

About 20 minutes from Mansfield, is another wonderful site worth visiting — Malabar Farm State Park . It features lots of events, like Wildflower hikes and Maple Syrup Festivals . The home was built by a man named Louis Bromfield in the 1940s and has all the original furnishings.

It features paintings from France, a grand piano, etc.

The home is interesting to explore, and the history is fascinating. Many celebrities visited the home, and in fact, Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall got married here. The home was donated to be part of a state park and is very well-done.

The state park, which is also near Mohican State Park , features hiking trails and look-outs. The tallest point in the area, Mt. Jeez, is a great overlook to see the entire farm.

fun day trip

We visited Malabar Farm State Park in the summer and enjoyed some of the hiking trails we’d heard about in February.  We also visited the farm and saw some of the animals, and then ate at the Malabar Farm Restaurant , which uses local ingredients in their dishes.

fun day trip

Cedar Bog Nature Preserve in Urbana Ohio

Less than one hour from Columbus, you’ll find a 450-acre nature preserve. Thousands of years ago, glaciers carved through much of Ohio and left behind what are now protected wetlands.

Visitors will be pleased to learn that boardwalks go through the wetlands, so you won’t have to put on heavy-duty gear to go exploring. You can explore the preserve year-round, but visiting in springtime is something special when the lady slipper orchids bloom.

There’s a small fee for each entrant to help with the upkeep of the park. But it’s worth it considering all the rare plants and animals you’ll get to see. 

Hocking Hills State Park in Logan Ohio

Almost every local knows about Hocking Hills State Park as a destination for day trips from Columbus Ohio . There aren’t many places to hike and see hills around Columbus (obviously), so this area is close enough it’s a hot place to visit.

However, it’s worth mentioning regardless. There are many trails and sites worth mentioning, including Old Man’s Cave .  

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John Glenn Astronomy Park in Logan Ohio

There are lots of great day trips from Columbus Ohio, but a visit to John Glenn Astronomy Park makes for a great night trip. If you go on a clear night, you’ll have a great experience and be able to see the night sky during one of the many weekly programs that are held.

Visitors can plan their own evenings of fun too. It’s open at all times, and admission is free. So, if you’re into stars and astrology, grab your telescope, and make the drive.

fun day trip

Kings Island Amusement Park in Mason Ohio

1-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Located just north of Cincinnati, this amusement park is a favorite spot for people of all ages to visit.

There are plenty of thrill rides to delight roller coaster fans, but there’s also Planet Snoopy and Soak City water park. A brand new coaster, the Orion, was added recently.

This is the perfect place if you’re looking to have some fun after a long week of work.

fun day trip

Explore Greater Dayton Ohio

When you think of Ohio, you likely think of Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland. But if you’re looking for a fun day trip, don’t discount the numerous Dayton Ohio things to do .

If you love planes and aviation, Dayton is a place you absolutely have to visit. Famed pioneers of flight Orville and Wilbur Wright are from Dayton, and the city is where they built their first aircraft.

Also, Dayton is home to the National Museum of the US Air Force , one of the world’s largest aviation museums. You can marvel at more than 350 aerospace vehicles, missiles, and exhibits that tell of the country’s aviation history. You can test out a flight simulator and check out a 3D theater too.

While you’re near Dayton, head to Lebanon Ohio and the Gentle Breeze Hot Air Balloon Company. You can take aerial tours of either Dayton or Cincinnati , as well as see the wonders of the Ohio countryside.

A Trip to Cumberland Ohio

1-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

If you can’t go to Africa, go to The Wilds on day trips from Columbus Ohio! It has open-air safari rides that are $30 a person, and you get to see animals in a “more natural habitat.” (Obviously, they were stolen from their original habitat, but those of us who have a complex with visiting zoos will enjoy this option more.)

The safari takes you around so you can view animals grazing or watering. Animals we saw — zebras, camels, deer, giraffes, and other animals I can’t pronounce.

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A Visit to the Miamisburg Mound in Ohio

If you’re looking for a quick getaway with the family for the day, head to Miamisburg Mound, where you’ll find spectacular man-made mounds. These are conical and easy to climb, so if you’re willing to climb up, it makes for a great family photo op.

Miamisburg Mound has a playground area for kids and a picnic area. So you can make a day of it without having to go too far.

fun day trip

Historic Loveland Castle & Museum in Loveland Ohio

You may think the best and most magnificent castles can only be found overseas in Europe. That’s where you’re wrong.

Just over an hour from Columbus, you’ll find Loveland Castle, which came to be when a WWI veteran was inspired to build a French-style castle of his own. Not only can you go exploring, but the castle offers many other services, such as weddings and Cub Scout sleepovers.

As you explore and marvel at the architecture — a mix of German, French, and English construction — you can learn all about Harry (the man who built the castle), play games and puzzles, and keep an eye out for ghosts that reportedly roam around.

If you like medieval swords and weapons, those are displayed throughout the castle as well.

Salt Fork State Park in Lore City Ohio

If you’re a fan of cryptids and cryptology, day trips from Columbus Ohio to explore Ohio’s famous Bigfoot territory are right up your alley. The park has been featured on Animal Planet and is reportedly full of the famous bipeds.

This is also where the annual Ohio Bigfoot Conference is held. So grab your Bigfoot exploration gear, and prepare to go hunting for sasquatch.

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park and Museum in Hamilton Ohio

1-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

As you’ve already read, Ohio is home to some truly great historical sights. At this Hamilton museum, you can take a scenic drive in your car to see this more than 300-acre sculpture park. If you want something a little more adventurous, rent a golf cart for a closer look.

While you’re here, stop at the Ancient Sculpture Museum, where you can see sculptures from many civilizations, including the Romans, Greeks, and Egyptians.

Explore Greater Cincinnati Ohio

There’s a lot to do in Cincinnati.

The second time we went to Cincinnati, we visited a few other places worth mentioning — such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center , which discussed the harrowing effects of slavery in the United States and current slavery that still exists in the world.

It’s one of those places that you want to be mentally prepared for. It’s thought-provoking and extremely intense to walk through. It features large printed slave ship sketches, a slave pen, etc.

Right outside of the Freedom Center is a waterfront area with a park and suspension bridge to walk on. The suspension bridge goes over the Ohio River and connects Covington Kentucky with Cincinnati.

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We also visited the Cincinnati Art Museum , which is free and has a fantastic clothing exhibit and other amazing artwork! It was a beautiful museum to visit. Other places we visited there were Spring Grove Cemetery, which had some beautiful graves and other structures within the arboretum. 

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Even though there was a wedding going on and we couldn’t explore the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption completely, we were able to see the nave inside and the beautiful building on the outside. I would like to go back when it’s not full of wedding guests to explore the rest of it.

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After sightseeing, we ate dinner at a restaurant called Taft’s Ale House , which boasts a very decadent menu. It was in an old building and had great food, beer, and cocktails.  

Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Brecksville Ohio

2-hour drive from Columbus

Believe it or not, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the only national park in the state of Ohio. You’ll find it north of Columbus and close to Cleveland. If you love nature, you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty found along the Cuyahoga River, including caves, Brandywine Falls , and the Blue Hen waterfall.

If you’re up for hiking trails, there’s a historic canal that you can traverse on foot. That canal connects Ohio to the rest of the country by stretching to Lake Erie in the north.

fun day trip

Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton Ohio

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is a wonderland for fans of the gridiron and day trips from Columbus Ohio. You can take a guided tour or tour the Hall of Fame at your leisure, soaking up the history and checking out the busts of some of the greatest players in the National Football League.

Much like the rock hall, you can see exhibits from some of the greatest players. Additionally, you can see some of the game’s greatest artifacts — including jerseys and balls from memorable games.

Pro Football Hall of Fame, Canton - Things to See Before You Die, Columbus Day Trips

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio

2-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

If you’re a fan of rock and roll, you’ll be as happy as a kid in a candy store with a visit to this Cleveland hallmark. You’ll find multiple floors packed with guitars, costumes, and other memorabilia from all your favorite rock stars — including the Who, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix.

Not only can you see iconic pieces of rock history, but there are plenty of chances for fans to interact. The Garage also allows fans to play instruments along with instructional videos.

A theater lets you see iconic moments in rock-and-roll history, and listening stations let you hear songs that shaped that history.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland - Things to See Before You Die, Columbus Day Trips

What to See in Chagrin Falls Ohio

Chagrin Falls is an adorable little suburb of Cleveland. The main area has an old-timey popcorn shop , Jeni’s Ice Cream, and the actual waterfall to view. The town is fun to walk around and explore.  

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When we went, we had a Groupon for an adorable bed and breakfast called The Club at Hillbrook . The rooms are beautiful, spacious, and elegant. We ate dinner in the main restaurant, which had cute string lights and overlooked the large property.

You can also walk around the property and enjoy some of the interesting trails and nature nearby.

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Enjoy Greater Cleveland Ohio

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Chagrin Falls shouldn’t be the only things you see while you’re in C-town. If the weather is cooperative, you can tour some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.

If you’re itching to shop, the historic West Side Market offers some of the freshest food you’re likely to find anywhere. Also, check out the Cleveland Arcade, which is home to equally impressive stores and restaurants.

If you’re a fan of “A Christmas Story,” the house used in the movie can be found in the Tremont neighborhood and has been renovated to look exactly as it did in the movie. There are even more  Cleveland day trip  ideas to explore too.

Related: 30+ Amazing Things to Do in Canton Ohio | Top Attractions, Dining, Lodging, & More

Cedar Point Amusement Park in Sandusky Ohio

If you like the roller coaster theme, you can travel a little further on day trips from Columbus Ohio to visit the Cedar Point Amusement Park, dubbed by some as the “roller coaster capital of the world.”

If you’re looking for extreme coasters, take a ride on the Magnum, Maverick, Millennium Force, and Raptor — just to name a few. If you’re not into coasters, there’s also a water park and resort-like amenities.

fun day trip

Lake Erie Shores & Islands in Sandusky Ohio

Aside from roller coasters, there’s plenty of fun to be had in Sandusky. If you’re up for exploring, visit Paddle and Climb and rent a kayak or paddleboard. Once you launch your vessel of choice, you can spend the day on the water.

Make no mistake, Lake Erie is beautiful all year round. If you go during the summer months, wear a hat and sunscreen, and drink plenty of fluids.

Related: 13 Best Indoor Things to Do in Sandusky Ohio

Day Trips From Columbus Outside of Ohio

Newport aquarium in newport kentucky.

Just across the river is Newport Kentucky, where I’ve visited the wonderful Newport Aquarium and waterfront area. If you love the sea, you’ll see plenty of animals — including a giant Pacific octopus, sharks, sea turtles, rays, and a giant grouper.

If you’re looking for a fun family day trip from Columbus, especially with young kids, this is the place to go. Your children’s eyes will light up in wonder as they see rare white alligators, penguins, and thousands of the most exotic creatures in the world.

There’s even a rope bridge that crosses over the top of a tank full of sharks. Also, check out one of the newest exhibits, Shipwreck: Realm of the Eels, where you can see a sunken ship and the creatures that live in and around it.

fun day trip

I’ve been to Cincinnati twice to see the aquarium, which is amazing. The aquarium is a great place to visit at any time of the year , but winter is a fun time to visit the turtles and alligators.

fun day trip

The sharks that swim overhead while you’re walking through is a wonderful feature.

fun day trip

Explore Fort Wayne Indiana

2-hour and 45-minute drive from Columbus

You may be thinking to yourself, why would I plan day trips from Columbus Ohio to Fort Wayne? Well, the city has a lot to offer and is home to a lot of history. It has three different rivers, so you have ample opportunity to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard.

The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has consistently been named one of the nation’s best. And, you can visit the “Old Fort,” a reconstruction of Fort Wayne from 1815.

On top of that, Fort Wayne is home to a thriving cultural district, where you can visit the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre and the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, among other attractions.

A Visit to Indianapolis Indiana

During a day trip from Columbus to Indianapolis, you’ll see a beautiful skyline, a thriving sports scene, and lots of history.

If history is your thing, take a gander down Canal Street. You’ll find the Congressional Medal of Honor Memorial and the Indiana State Museum on one end of the street. On the other end is a monument to the U.S.S. Indianapolis.

You can also check out the Indianapolis Zoo and the famed Indianapolis Motor Speedway. If you’re hungry, stop for a brew at Rathsekllar, and marvel at the Indy skyline. You can get some delicious German food there too.

Indianapolis, IN - Columbus Day Trips

Enjoy Ann Arbor Michigan

3-hour drive from Columbus

Columbus locals may roll their eyes at taking a trip to visit “That School Up North,” but beyond the Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry, Ann Arbor is a town worth checking out. It has been named one of the coolest small towns in America with plenty of shopping and more than 300 bars and restaurants.

If you’re feeling adventurous, visit Gallup Park, Ann Arbor’s most popular recreation area. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and paddleboats. You can go on nature walks, or stop to have a family picnic. If you own a boat, there’s even a boat launch, so you can spend the day fishing or tubing.

Experience Pittsburgh Pennsylvania

Believe it or not, the major Pittsburg metropolis isn’t too far from Columbus, and there’s no shortage of things to see and do. If you love sports, head to PNC Park to catch a Pittsburgh Pirates game.

If you love museums, head to the Carnegie Museum of Art, where you can see awe-inspiring exhibitions that change annually. If you’re looking for great food, you can’t go wrong with a stuffed sandwich from Primanti Bros. or a succulent steak at Butcher in the Rye.

Pittsburgh, PA - Columbus Day Trips

What to See in Louisville Kentucky

3-hour and 15-minute drive from Columbus

Even outside of the Buckeye State, there are awesome destinations for day trips from Columbus Ohio. If you like bourbon, Louisville is the place for you.

There are many bourbon distilleries around the city, and you can pick up a passbook and follow the trail. Also, you can do bourbon tastings, although you won’t see how it’s manufactured.

Some restaurants and bars offer tastings, and the Evan Williams Bourbon Experience is a fun option within the city.

In addition, the boardwalk is a nice place to walk around, and there are good views of the river. There are a lot of places to eat and bars with all sorts of live music. 

Image 20

Coopers Rock State Forest in Bruceton Mills West Virginia

3-hour and 30-minute drive from Columbus

I just visited Coopers Rock State Forest on our way back from Maryland.  The views are beautiful, and I didn’t get a chance to explore the entire place.

The main lookout point was very crowded with people, although I think it was the time of year and time of day we went. There was perfect October weather in the afternoon! I suspect if you aim to go here in the morning, it will be less crowded, and when you get to some of the main trails it won’t be so bad.

fun day trip

There’s a main overlook area, with pay-to-view finders, and then there are hiking trails you can take that will bring you off the main overlook to an underlook. There’s also a gift shop and a park. If it’s nice out, I think you can really make a full day of it.

fun day trip

Consider visiting other attractions on day trips from Columbus Ohio to West Virginia .

A Tasty Visit in Dunbar Pennsylvania

In Dunbar Pennsylvania, you can see some Frank Lloyd Wright homes and caverns, sample some berry pie, and view the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania. There are plenty of things to do on a day trip from Columbus to Western Pennsylvania , and it’s all less than four hours from Columbus!

IMG_0292

More Tips for Taking Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

There are a lot of museums in Ohio that have some great history to share. They also do a lot of public programming.

If you’re a history-lover, you should check out the Ohio History Connection’s calendar of events to get ideas for what’s going on not only in Columbus but also in all the historic homes, museums, and outdoor sites managed by the Connection.

You may find a self-guided hike at Wahkeena Nature Preserve, the art of historical cooking at Fort Hill Earthworks , or a White House chef visit at the Hayes Presidential Center . Those would make great day trips from Columbus Ohio as well.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

What cities are an hour away from columbus ohio.

There are quite a few cities that sit just a short distance from Columbus. Within a one-hour drive, you can visit Urbana, Yellow Springs, Lexington, Fairborn, Bellefontaine, and Cedarville — just to name a few.

What cities are 3 hours from Columbus?

One of the best things about Columbus is its central location. Within a three-hour drive, you can explore Dayton, Cleveland, Indianapolis, and Pittsburgh — not to mention lots of exciting, small, and unique towns in Ohio.

Which cities are within a 4 hours drive of Columbus Ohio?

As you’ve read, there are a lot of cities within a four-hour drive of Columbus. Depending on what you want to do, you can easily travel to Fort Wayne or Indianapolis in Indiana; Dayton, Cincinnati, and Cleveland in Ohio; and Ann Arbor in Michigan.

What is there to do in a one-day trip to Ohio?

A better question is “What isn’t there to do?” The only limit to what you can do in Ohio is your imagination. If you’re a state resident looking for day trips from Columbus Ohio, you can go in any direction and find something amazing.

If you love sports, head to Indianapolis or Pittsburgh. If you love art, drive to Pittsburgh or Fort Wayne. If you want great eats, pick a direction and head for the nearest big city.

What is there to do between Columbus and Cleveland?

This is a case of there just being too many options to choose from. If you’re planning road trips from Columbus Ohio up to Cleveland, there are a lot of stops you can make in just over two hours.

You can get in touch with nature at Brandywine Falls at Cuyahoga National Park. Or, soak up some history at Thomas Edison’s birthplace in Milan or the Harding House Presidential Suite in Marion. You can also stop in Akron to visit the Akron Zoo.

Explore Amazing Things to Do on Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

No matter what you want to do or where you want to go, fun is only a short distance away from Columbus, Ohio. Whether you want to take a spontaneous day trip with the family or plan the perfect weekend getaway with friends, you can literally pick a direction and drive.

You can squeeze even more fun out of day trips from Columbus Ohio by making stops as you drive to a bigger city, such as Pittsburgh or Cleveland. So, grab your friends and family, ready the car keys, and hit the open road!

Looking for More Day Trips in Ohio?

Maybe you’re not starting your day trips in Ohio from Columbus… no worries. We’ve put together a few other Ohio day trip starting guides:

  • Explore Ohio & Beyond: 20 Excellent Day Trips from Cleveland
  • 21 Amazing Day Trips from Cincinnati in Ohio, Kentucky, & Indiana
Unique Day Trips From Columbus Ohio

A lover of new experiences and fun road trips, Nina enjoys local and worldwide travel. She seeks authentic adventures ranging from wilderness camping to fine dining. Her passion is to share her experiences with others, so they can get the most out of their travels. Nina manages a local history museum in Columbus, Ohio, where she lives with her husband. Her travel motto comes from a woman she met locally who told her, "Always have a trip planned." She's the author of the book How to Be Your Own Travel Agent available on Amazon

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Lots of great ideas for our next day trip! You can travel 45 minutes North of Columbus to Marion and see the largest monument to a U.S. president outside of Washington DC, the historically accurate and beautifully restored home of President Warren G. Harding and the newly built presidential museum. A unique experience for sure!

You did not mention Put-in-Bay

No mention of Amish country in Holmes County, one hour and a half south east of Columbus. Enjoy the laid back rural Holmes County, we have the largest Amish population in Ohio. Plenty of shops, hotels, restaurants, Holmes county is visited by people from all over the country and the world. No better place to spend the weekend away from all the hustle and bustle.

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Day Trip to Tucson: Best Things To Do in 24 Hours

Heading for a tucson day trip, but not sure what to do.

In this guide, I’ve outlined a fun day trip to Tucson itinerary based on my best experiences during my stopover while road-tripping around the Southwest for 5 months.

After being amazed at Sedona, I dragged my feet going to Tucson since it significantly increased my driving time, but I’m glad I did. Not only did I tick off another national park that is almost right in town, but I loved the Titan Missile Museum. But one day in Tucson is definitely enough time to get a solid feel for the city and visit its key attractions. 

Get ready for an exciting day packed with the best things to do in Tucson. Plus, I’ll give you more suggestions if you have extra time and a short travel guide to help plan your trip at the end.

Sample One Day in Tucson Itinerary

Here’s a comprehensive day trip to Tucson itinerary, all in one scroll. Or if you’re looking for a guided experience, this popular bike tour will give you a good overview of the downtown area.

Historic Bike Tour of Tucson

Best for first-time visitors strapped for time

  • 7+ City Landmarks
  • All Equipment Included
  • Morning or Afternoon Departure

Morning: Saguaro National Park

  • I recommend waking up for the  Saguaro silhouettes for the sunrise in the West section.
  • Go for a morning  hike on the Cactus Forest Trail.
  • Drive the Bajada Loop,  stopping at  Valley View Trail  and  Signal Hill.
  • Check out the all-in-one  Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum
  • Grab a quick bite at one of the local cafes or bakeries in the city. Try a Sonoran hot dog or Navajo tacos.

Afternoon Option 1: Titan Missile Museum

  • Visit the historic Spanish Catholic mission San Xavier del Bac Mission 
  • Take a guided tour of a Cold War relic at the  Titan Missile Museum  (I loved this museum, but it takes up a lot of time)

Afternoon Option 2: Downtown and East Saguaro

  • Explore the downtown area, going to local shops and attractions like the Gaslight Theatre
  • See the  Pima Air & Space Museum , home to over 300 aircrafts and spacecrafts
  • Check out the rows of miniature artifacts at  the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures.
  • Tack on the Rincon Mountain District  and drive or join an e-bike tour of the Cactus Forest Loop and go for another hike.

Recommended Places to Stay in Downtown Tucson

  • Luxury: Armory Park Inn
  • Mid-Range: The Tuxon Hotel
  • Budget: University Inn

Day Trip to Tucson

Tucson is one of the sunniest US cities, with an impressive 350 days of sunshine a year! Once the capital of the Arizona Territory, Tucson is now the second-largest city in Arizona. Known for its Sonoran Desert landscapes, temperatures soar over 100°F (38°C) during the summer months but act as a fantastic winter getaway for native culture and outdoor fun! 

What to Do in Tucson in One Day

West saguaro national park.

Saguaro National Park is a must-visit attraction in Tucson and a great way to start your day trip. The park is split into two main sections: Rincon Mountain District (East) and Tucson Mountain District (West). The West has more densely populated saguaros, while the East has more viewpoints. 

I recommend starting your day with a sunrise hike in the West district to see the iconic saguaro cacti silhouettes against the changing colors of the sky. I think this is the more impressive section.

Read More:  I have a complete guide to Saguaro National Park if you want more information.

Here are the top things to do in the West section of Saguaro National Park:

  • Watch the sunrise at Valley View Overlook Trail:  The trail is short and accessible to most, although there’s a slight uphill climb to the viewpoint.
  • Hike on the Hugh Norris Trail:  This is the longest trail in the park, with views of the Sonoran Desert that lead to the highest point.
  • Photograph the saguaros on the Bajada Loop Drive:  This scenic drive is filled with countless photogenic saguaro cacti.
  • Petroglyphs at the Signal Hill Picnic Area:  Only a short walk from the picnic area, there are over 200 petroglyphs at Signal Hill

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

Right outside the national park heading towards Tucson, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum is a 98-acre outdoor facility that includes a zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum all rolled into one. There’s everything to see, from prairie dogs to hummingbirds and desert plant life.

Stroll through the Cactus Garden and the Earth Sciences Center to a journey through a limestone cave.

The museum is open every day, and the admission fee varies based on age.

I had an amazing time at the Titan Missile Museum! I highly recommend it, even though it’s a bit of a drive, about 25 miles outside Tucson. The guided tour of the missile site lasts about 1 hour, and then you can explore on your own. However, fitting both afternoon itineraries together might be a challenge, but it is possible.

San Xavier del Bac Mission

On your way out of Tucson, stop by San Xavier del Bac Mission, a historic Spanish Catholic mission known as the “White Dove of the Desert.” The mission has been beautifully preserved and is Arizona’s oldest intact European structure. 

It’s free to visit and open daily from 8am-5pm.

Titan Missile Museum

I know I’ve already raved enough about this museum. But I’m not that into history, yet was still fascinated by the facts I learned about the Cold War and the operations of these nuclear warheads. To top it off, there was a girl in my tour group whose father was a nuclear missile operator at a different base back in the day!

Your ticket includes an hour-long guided tour through the underground missile complex. You’ll get to see the actual missile silo, control center, and even the launch duct of the Titan II missile, the largest Intercontinental Ballistic Missile deployed by the US. The guides are incredibly knowledgeable, explaining every detail about the Titan II and its role during the Cold War.

Here are some cool facts about the Titan Missiles:

  • The missiles had a 9,000-mile range and were accurate within a mile of their target.
  • The stations were manned 24/7, with so many checks to even get inside the complex.
  • Once launched, a Titan II missile could reach its target more than halfway around the world in just 30 minutes.
  • Activating the missile was like solving an escape room puzzle, requiring a coordinated effort of two people simultaneously turning the key.

Downtown Tucson

If you prefer a more urban experience, spend your afternoon exploring downtown Tucson. You can start with a visit to the Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block to admire a collection of Latin American art. Then, head over to the Presidio San Agustín del Tucsón, a re-creation of the original Spanish fort that founded Tucson.

For lunch, try some local Mexican food at El Charro Cafe, the oldest Mexican restaurant in the US.

And if you’d rather a guided experience around town, join this small group bike tour!

Pima Air & Space Museum

This museum is located downtown and requires less time than the Titan Missile, making it a great alternative.

If you’re an aviation enthusiast or curious about flight, the Pima Air & Space Museum has over 300 aircraft spread across 80 acres. It’s one of the world’s largest non-government-funded aerospace museums!

Aircraft from all eras surround you, from vintage planes to sleek jets and massive bombers. You can even step into some of them for an up-close look at the cockpits. Some highlights include the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, the world’s fastest jet-propelled aircraft, and a B-29 Superfortress. 

The museum is open every day from 9 AM to 5 PM.

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures

The Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures blends art, history, and imagination by displaying over 300 miniature houses and room boxes.

From the enchanting fairytale-like miniature castles to the detailed miniature replicas of Victorian houses, each exhibit showcases the craftsmanship and dedication of the artists. The museum also features seasonal exhibits, so there’s always something new to see.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, with Mondays off. 

East Saguaro National Park

After lunch, make your way to the East district of Saguaro National Park. Here, you can hike on some easy trails and see more saguaro cacti. The park also offers a scenic drive with multiple viewpoints and picnic areas.

Here are the top things to do in the East section of Saguaro National Park:

  • Cactus Forest Drive:  An 8-mile loop drive through the park’s diverse desert life and landscape. You can also take an e-bike guided tour !
  • Rincon Mountain Visitor Center:  Beautiful architectural building with views
  • Mica View Loop Trail :  An easy 1.9 mile loop trail through saguaros and gorgeous Tucson mountains view
  • Desert Ecology Trail : A 0.3 mile educational trail with information about the desert ecosystem and its inhabitants.
  • Tanque Verde Ridge Trail:  For more experienced hikers, this is a 3.1 mile moderate trail.

Where to Stay in Tucson

For short-term travelers, Downtown Tucson is the urban experience with convenient access to art museums, restaurants, and historic sites you want. Alternatively, the Foothills neighborhood is quieter and close to hiking trails and outdoor activities for those looking for a more nature-oriented stay.

Best Hotels in Downtown Tucson

Places to visit with more time, other things to do in tucson.

  • Mount Lemmon Scenic Byway:  A road trip to the top is an adventure in itself.
  • Sabino Canyon Recreation Area:  Beautiful desert landscapes and hiking trails with a tram ride through the canyon.
  • Tohono Chul Park:  A city garden oasis featuring native plants and artwork.
  • Old Tucson:  A movie studio and theme park where more than 400 Western films have been shot. Fun for all with stunt shows, tours, and historical exhibits.
  • Tucson Botanical Gardens:  Features 17 specialty gardens showcasing the diversity of the Tucson area’s flora.
  • University of Arizona Campus:  Highlights include the Flandrau Science Center & Planetarium, Museum of Art, and the historic Old Main. Great for people interested in architecture or academics.
  • Colossal Cave Mountain Park:  An underground attraction where you can take a cave tour through limestone formations.
  • Kitt Peak National Observatory :  One of the world’s largest collections of optical and radio telescopes, located atop a mountain. You can take tours or attend nightly stargazing events.

Best Day Trips from Tucson

  • Sedona  (3 hours): Known for its stunning red rock formations and vibrant arts scene.
  • Phoenix  (1.5 hours): Arizona’s capital city with a wealth of museums, shopping, and dining options.
  • Bisbee  (1.5 hours): A historic mining town with well-preserved Victorian architecture, guided underground mine tours, antique shops, and art galleries.
  • Tombstone  (1 hour): Known as “The Town Too Tough To Die,” it looks into the Wild West with gunfight reenactments and historic sites.
  • Chiricahua National Monument  (2 hours): Offers incredible hiking through unique rock formations.
  • Kartchner Caverns State Park  (1 hour): Home to one of the world’s longest stalactite formations in a living cave.
  • Montezuma Castle National Monument (3 hours):  Preserved cliff dwellings of the Sinagua people.
  • Petrified Forest National Park (4 hours):  An area of large deposits of petrified wood with other beautiful landscapes and hiking trails.
  • Grand Canyon National Park (4.5 hours):  Quite far away, but one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Is 1 Day Enough for Tucson

You can get a solid taste of Tucson in a single day. One overnight would be the perfect length of time to see everything on this itinerary. I would spend it hiking amongst the Saguaros, visiting one or two of the city’s world-class museums, and eating some authentic Mexican cuisine. But the surrounding area is brimming with exciting destinations for day trips, so if you have more time, you will have things to do and places to see.

Best Times To Go

Tucson can be enjoyed year-round; however, the best time to visit is the winter months, from October to April. Daytime temperatures drift between 60-75°F (15-24°C), perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, Sabino Canyon Recreation Area, or taking a scenic drive up Mount Lemmon. The summer months may be more suitable for indoor activities since the summer heat often exceeds 100°F (38°C).

Tucson’s festivals usually fall in the spring and fall, with some highlights like The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in February, Tucson Festival of Books in March, and El Tour de Tucson in November.

How to Get Here

Tucson is conveniently situated in southern Arizona and has multiple transportation options. Find great rental car deals with  DiscoverCars  and score the best flight prices using  Expedia .

Traveling by air  is the quickest and most convenient way to reach Tucson. Tucson International Airport (TUS) is just 8 miles south of Downtown Tucson. This airport offers direct flights from numerous US cities, including Los Angeles , Denver, Seattle, and Chicago. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), about 1.5 hours away, has more connections for international visitors.

If you’re traveling by road,  Tucson is accessible via Interstate 10 from the west (Phoenix, Los Angeles) or the east (El Paso, San Antonio) or via Interstate 19 from the south (Nogales, Mexico). 

As for rail options,  Amtrak’s Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle lines connect Tucson with several major cities, with the Tucson Amtrak Station in downtown Tucson.

For local transportation within Tucson,  the city has a network of buses, streetcars, and taxis. I personally think you should have a car to get around.

Final Thoughts: 24 Hours in Tucson

Get ready to be surprised by Tucson! It might not be one of the top destinations in Arizona or the liveliest place, but it’s certainly a great winter getaway for exploring saguaros in a vast Arizona desert oasis. They’ve also got some interesting museums and some unique foods to try. 

If Tuscon’s not the only place on your Arizona trip, don’t miss out on our other itineraries covering the most fascinating spots in the state.

Don’t close that tab just yet…Where to Next in Arizona?

Arizona is amongst my top favorite places in the world. I’ve vanlifed around and through this great state back and forth, north and south, multiple times on my road trips. If you’re looking for more itineraries on Arizona, check out these other destinations.

  • Perfect One Day In Petrified Forest National Park Itinerary
  • One Day in Saguaro National Park Itinerary for First-Timers
  • One Day in Grand Canyon South Rim: First-Timers Itinerary

Heading for a Tucson day trip, but not sure what to do? In this guide, I’ve outlined a fun day trip to Tucson itinerary based on my best experiences during my stopover while road-tripping around the Southwest for 5 months. After being amazed at Sedona, I dragged my feet going to Tucson since it significantly increased my driving time, but I’m glad I did. Not only did I tick off another national park that is almost right in town, but I loved the Titan Missile Museum. But one day in Tucson is definitely enough time to get a solid feel […]

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Florida Trippers

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to Florida!

One of the most beautiful day trips from Jacksonville, Washington Oak Gardens State Park

20 Interesting Florida Day Trips (North, South, And Central Ideas!)

July 24, 2021 //  by  Florida Trippers

Are you searching for interesting Florida day trips to plan your next adventure? We have you covered on all the best ideas. Whether you are looking for enchanting gardens, crystal clear waters to dip your toes in, or a boat tour through Florida’s most wild lands, you’ll be sure to find something perfect for your next day off.

Florida holds some of the most diverse wildlife. It is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on its east coast and the rest of the state hugs the Gulf of Mexico. Florida is home to incredible creatures like the endangered Florida panther, manatee, and the leatherback turtle. It also holds mystery in the swamps of the Central Florida Everglades. Many Floridian hidden gems include artsy oasis.

If you’re looking to do something different than theme parks and want to reconnect with nature, we have Florida day trips for that too. We’ve got you covered on a variety of activities and places so that you can plan an interesting way to spend Florida day trips. This article will help find day trips in Florida to visit near North, Central, and South Florida.

St Augustine Beach is one of the best central florida day trips for families as there are so many different activities to do during sunrise

Best North Florida Day Trips

Ginnie springs.

Nestled into the Santa Fe River, Ginnie Springs is the perfect place to take a well deserved Florida day trips to. Ginnie springs holds some of the most beautiful waters in the entire state. This first magnitude spring is a hot spot destination for swimmers, snorkelers, scuba divers, and those who love kayaking.

Ginnie Springs is a great choice among the Florida springs because it has 7 springs that you can choose from. Each spring is unique. Some are deep and wide, while others are shallow and narrow. All of the springs are connected to the underwater cave ecosystem here. Miles of mapped out underwater cave exploration awaits the serious cave diver.

Fill the day trip with a dip into the waters, a volley ball match with friends, a fabulous cookout, and relaxing on the shores. Once you experience Ginnie Springs the first time, you’ll want to come back and camp here. Ginnie Springs is one of the best Florida springs with camping .

Girl using stand up paddle board on top clear water springs at one of the best Florida springs

Amelia Island

One Florida day trips needs to be spent at Amelia Island. Since the year 1000, this island has been well loved by its visitors. Today, the island consistently ranks among the “Top 10 U.S. Islands” as voted by the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards panel. It is bound to be one of the best Florida day trips ever. Amelia Island is one of the prettiest islands in Florida to escape to hands down.

Amelia Island offers 13 miles worth of pristine beaches with great opportunities for beach combing. Due to the upkeep and care of Amelia Island’s preservation, wildlife can easily been seen here. In fact, you may even see evidence of the wildlife in the form of shark teeth washed up on shore!

Amelia Island is the perfect place to take a Florida day trips for much needed relaxation. After the beach, head to one of the Island’s World-Class spas and finish the day with a delicious meal from one of their great restaurants. Or spend the day on a guided horseback riding tour on the shores.

boardwalk and sand dunes on ameila island in florida during sunrise

Washington Oak Gardens State Park

Washington Oak Gardens State Park is beautiful and it is one of the best Florida day trips from Jacksonville . Located on the Palm Coast, these gardens are just an hour drive south of Jacksonville. Well known for their lush gardens, this state park preserves the original habitat of a Florida barrier island.

This park is so great because it is essentially a two for one. The formal gardens are stunning with a showcase of lush native Florida plants, winding reflection ponds, and groomed walking trails. Because the park sits on the coast, you also get the beach. Washington Oaks has a unique shoreline of coquina rock formations. The waves from the Atlantic crash against these rock formations and it feels like the cover of a romance novel.

Spend the day at Washington Oak strolling among pristine gardens. Go beachcoming for seashells on the seashore. Explore tidal pools among the ancient rock formations. Take memorable vacation photos with friends or a partner. Break out the binoculars for great bird watching. Go fishing on the beach. Sit in one of the serene gazebos and read a book. Whatever you do, just have fun.

fun day trip

Crab Island

Plan a few Florida day trips to Crab Island in Destin, Florida. Nestled in the heart of the Emerald Coast, this gem is a fan favorite of locals and well, the world. Crab Island has made a name for itself time and time again with features on Good Morning America, HGTV, and many other travel magazines and publications worldwide.

Crab Island is loved by many as one of the best North Florida day trips for the beautiful emerald waters and the shallow sandbar below. At times, the sandbar will have as little as one foot of water, and the deepest it gets is four feet. With gorgeous sunsets and a high likelihood of seeing dolphins, Crab Island is popular by demand.

The tradition of Crab Island is to reach it by boat, anchor, then spend the day playing in the water. Though the island is not far from shore, it is best enjoyed by boat or by floating tiki bar. Yes, you can drive a floating tiki bar to Crab Island with all your friends.

Visit Crab Island between the late spring through the early fall months. With other fun things to do in Destin and great restaurants to try , you’ll want to keep this day trip on repeat.

Boats gather over shallow blue green waters at beautiful crab island in  destin florida

The City of Pensacola

Mark the day’s itinerary for a visit to Florida’s interesting City of Pensacola. We love the Florida day trips spent in Pensacola for the history, beaches, and the city’s celebratory heavy culture. There is always something to do in Pensacola.

Start the morning with a visit to the Naval Air Museum, then look out from one of the coolest lighthouses in Florida nearby. Grab lunch from one of the downtown restaurants after you explore the history museums, art galleries, and specialty shops that sit on Palafox street. Head to the National Seashore 15 minutes away to visit Fort Pickens. Catch the sunset from one of Pensacola’s best beaches and end the night with star gazing under these skies.

Pensacola’s emerald coast and sugar white sands is a great way to spend all north florida day trips

Vortex Springs

Vortex Springs makes for an interesting North Florida day trips. The Springs are home to the largest diving resorts in the state. It is also home to the founder of the scuba flag. Vortex hosts a massive underwater cave system that attracts scuba divers all over. Though miles of the caves have been mapped out, there are still many many more miles unknown.

Swimmers, snorkelers and scuba divers are in for a treat as they will get the chance to swim up close with the friendly wildlife that inhabits these waters. Rumor has it that the fish here are so tame that they will eat out of your hand! You’ll see fish such as Blue Gill, Koi, and American Eel. This is one of the best natural springs in North Florida .

Best Central Florida Day Trips 

Rock springs run state reserve.

Rock Springs Run State Reserve is a true Floridian Oasis. Lush greenery surrounding rock springs run sets the scene for the perfect place to relax for Florida day trips. The best part about the reserve is the natural lazy river run that you can tube or kayak down for miles!

Over 26,000 gallons of water per minute bubbles from the spring‘s head which is located within Kelly Park part of the reserve. The waters stay a refreshing 68 degrees year round so you can make this trip anytime of the year. If the water is not your thing, you can explore the miles of trails within the reserve by hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding!

All of this is just a short drive from Orlando. With just 40 minutes of driving, you’ll find yourself among gorgeous crystalline water. To further plan your trip to rock springs, check out our complete guide to this Florida Oasis.

fun day trip

Beer Can Island

Beer Can Island is downright magical. When planning Central Florida day trips, set the itinerary to go to Beer Can Island. It will feel like you have been transported to an oasis that nature took over. Huge old tree “bones” that are half sunken into the sands make up this enchanting shoreline.

Fun fact: there are two Beer Can Islands in Florida. The one worth going to the Beer Can Island that is also known as Greer Island. Located near Longboat Key by Sarasota, this Florida day trips is perfect for relaxing, taking photos and climbing on old trees. Some of the old trees are sturdy enough to string a hammock from to enjoy the rolling waves.

Be sure to take care of the land when visiting. As Beer Can Island hosts a very fragile ecosystem that needs help protecting. This means pack your trash out and leave no trace aside from footprints. That way Beer Can Island will live on like the tree bones that mark this shore.

To help plan this Florida day trips, read our detailed list of tips for Beer Can Island which talks about parking, how to get there, and more!

Sunset among the tree bones for stunning portriats instagrammable trips in florida

If you are looking for exquisite beauty and a perfect place to relax, visit Bok Towers. The famous Bok Towers were built by Edward Bok who wanted to create an enchanting meditative garden. Today the meditative garden and reflection pond now doubles as a bird sanctuary.

Be sure to explore the paved and mulched trails to see the native Florida plants. These paths will lead you to the Tower which is actually a Carillion, a type of bell tower that can be played like an instrument. Go at 1:00 PM or 3:00 PM to hear the Carillion’s daily concerts. If you can’t make those times, you will still be able to hear the tower’s music playing throughout the grounds every half hour.

Bok Towers is “a spot of beauty second to none in the country”, which makes it the perfect place to plan a quick and easy Florida day trips to. This place is also a stop on the Great Florida Birding Trail. With over 126 species of birds, you’ll want to bring the binoculars to spot them all!

Reflection pond and native trees at Bok Tower Gardens one of the best Florida Day Trips

Saint Pete Sunken Gardens

The perfect Florida day trips are the ones that you can do easily. Saint Pete Sunken Gardens is that place and much, much more. You’ll be astonished when you pull up to this century-old hidden gem that is stack dab in the middle of the city. Yes, its true! However, these gardens are completely encased by plants so you won’t feel like you are in the city at all!

These picturesque grounds showcase the best of Florida’s native plants and animals. Because the garden is all about crafting an otherworldly type of beauty, a few exotic plants and animals can be found here too. Take a walk over the bridge that hangs over Koi pond, or check out the pink flamingos here. Its no wonder why the sunken gardens are one of Florida’s best photo spots for Instagram .

There are many winding pathways to explore, so you will want to plan to walk them all. Otherwise, you might miss out on something! It truly is the best way to fall in love with the grounds and only takes a little over 1.5 hours walk. There are plenty of sitting spots to rest in along the way.

With so much to offer, Saint Pete’s Sunken Gardens are the perfect Florida day trip from Tampa to take friends and family to. If you want to know more, read our guide on what to expect at Saint Pete’s magical Sunken Gardens !

Girl standing on bridge as koi fish swim below at st pete sunken gardens where lush forests grow

Bioluminescent Kayaking Tour

One of the coolest Florida day trips that can ever be experienced are the bioluminescent kayaking tours offered in the state. With that said, plan for a trip to Florida’s East Coast near Central Florida.

Many people don’t know about the bioluminescent secret that is hidden in Florida. These tiny lights shine bright blue in the water. A lot like fireflies, bioluminescence is light produced by a living organism. This natural phenomena is downright magical to experience and totally bucket list worthy.

The presence of bioluminescence in the water is never a guarantee, but it is worth every effort to see. There are three places we love to take bioluminescent kayaking tours: BK Adventure, Florida Adventurer, and A Day Away Kayak Tours.

For the best chance to see bioluminescence, plan for this trip between May and October. Since these organisms emit such low levels of light, you’ll want to be sure to see them two hours after the sun goes down. The dark will really make the shine come to life!

For more information on how to witness this wonder, read our detailed guide !

fun day trip

St. Augustine

For a fun filled day trips in Florida, visit Saint Augustine. There is so much to do here to keep the day interesting. Walk a guided ghost our at night with your friends. Take a dip in the Atlantic waters at the beach, and spend the day beachcombing. Look out to the horizon from the heights of the St. Augustine old fort. Drink at century old pubs and hear the stories about the history that marks Saint Augustine’s streets. Go visit the Fountain of Youth nearby where the waters were once believed to be enchanted with the powers to give immortality and prevent aging.

fun day trip

The Dali Museum 

For an interesting and art filled Florida day trips one can take, set aside a day for the Dali Museum in downtown St. Petersburg. The works of Dali are unlike others. The building alone is worthy enough for a visit, let alone the art within. And trust us, you’ll want to spend the whole day here since this is one of the  coolest museums in Florida .

Take pictures with “The Enigma”, the geodesic glass bubble as a backdrop for a photo session with a bestie. After all, it was labeled as one of the “top buildings you must see in your lifetime” by AOL News. Check out the Dali neoart commemorated in the melted clock park benches that honor his memory in  The Persistence of Memory .

 With over 2,400 works of art, you’ll have a day filled with beauty. If you need a break from glancing at photos, take a seat among the tranquility gardens outside. It’s the perfect way to spend a simple Florida day trips.

cool places to visit for florida fun Self portrait with flowing pink skirt at Dali at  museum building

Best Day Trips In South Florida

Dry tortugas .

The Dry Tortugas is the perfect Florida day trips from Key West. This 100-square mile park is home to 7 islands and is part of the Gulf of Mexico. Known for the mighty Fort Jefferson and the tropical paradise feel, this place is sure to be a crowd pleaser for the entire family.

Dry Tortugas is even more unique than it looks. In fact, the Dry Tortugas is the only tropical reef in the States! It is also the third biggest tropical reef in the world! These beautiful clear blue and green waters will make you want to jump in and discover the reefs for yourself.

Discover how history and nature blend as one in the Dry Tortugas. Hear the true tales of pirates and the treasures found among the waters. Walk through the guided tour of Fort Jefferson, visit the Tortugas Harbor Lighthouse, swim with fish among the reefs, or go snorkeling for sunken pieces of history.

Top down view of Fort Jefferson with gorgeous blue Caribbean like waters with sail boats

Everglades Boat Tour

Mark an Everglades boat tour on the list of fun Florida day trips. The Everglades is home to a diverse ecosystem with wild animals like alligators, manatees, and the endangered leatherback turtle. Air boat ride is by far the best way to explore these coastal and sawgrass marshes.

Which airboat tour is best? It depends on what you want. Read this complete guide to find what best suits your perfect Florida day trips. We love the variety of airboat tours to choose from because they are so specific to meet every need. Some are lead at night which allows you to glide across the water under the starry skies. Some come included with live alligator handling shows! Others are smaller group sizes for a more personal experience.

Be sure to pack sunscreen, bug spray, and lots of water for this fun experience. There is so much to learn about the Everglades that you’ll want to come back for even more South Florida day trips.

Everglades National Park airboat takes guests on tours to see alligators in swamp with tall grass

Blowing Rock Preserve

Visit the Blowing Rocks Preserve for Florida day trips all about relaxation. As one of the most picturesque beaches in Florida, it won’t be hard to find what is so serene about this beach. Discover mangroves, dunes, and the unique limestone rock formations that paint this beautiful coastline. It’s the perfect place to put a beach chair in the sand, or read a book.

Blowing Rocks Preserve is a unique Florida day trips to the beach. That’s because it holds one of Florida’s rarest surviving landscapes: an intact Florida dune habitat. Walk beside the beach dunes. See the goregous native plants like sea grapes, beach sunflower, and gumbo limbo trees.

Pack a camera to take full advantage of this place’s incredible beauty. The crashing waves against the limestone rock formations is best photographed during low tide. Pose in front of a rock formation for stunning portraits!

trees create fun tunnel at blowing rocks in south florida day trips

Wynwood Miami

Of all the most interesting Florida day trips, Wynwood Miami has to be in the top. The Wynwood Walls is a must see for artists and art lovers alike. Take a South Florida day trips to see the raw street art that paints the beauty found in Miami’s unique and colorful culture.

This is the perfect Florida day trips to go on with friends, family, or even dates. Take one of the many tours if you want. They have everything from the Wynwood graffiti golf cart tour, the informative Miami food and art walking tour of Wynwood neighborhood, and even a graffiti bar tour.

To check out more of the recent additions, visit the Wynwood Doors as well. There you will see a beautifully transformed park with boulders, trees, and of course: art. Read more about how to best explore these artsy grounds with these great tips !

Colorful artsy wynwood walls in miami is big fun with lots to see for day trips in florida

Coral Castle

The mystery of Coral Castle is one of the most interesting Florida day trips. Let me be upfront. Coral Castle isn’t actually constructed of coral, nor is it an actual castle. However, the construction of these stones have been compared to the mysteries of Stonehenge and the Great Pyramids of Egypt.

The reason why these stones are just as mysterious is because they were constructed by one man. Scientists say its improbable and some even claim it to be impossible! So how can one man move more than 1,000 tones of limestone into such shapes and sizes? Discover sundials, crescent moons, chairs, and much more.

For more castles in Florida, you can read our blogpost  here . It will be sure to make for a more interesting Florida trip to be able to see castles among the Floridian jungles!

Mysterious Moons, sundials, ancient stone architecture crafted by one man perfect for south florida day trips

Ringling Museum

Another interesting Florida day trips worth doing is visiting Ringling Museum. It’s only an hour away from Tampa in Sarasota. It’s a great place to take portraits outside the museum, then go inside to gaze upon other pieces of art. If you plan to visit, don’t forget to check out our Tips For Visiting The Ringling Museum!

Art lovers will love spending the day gazing at John Foundling’s personal art collection. The collection includes works from artists such as Velázquez, Rubens and Veronese. Even the outside of the building is a piece of art with its architecture. It sets a great backdrop for a photo opportunity. It gives Wes Anderson vibes within a classic renaissance style with its renaissance-inspired pink courtyard.

woman standing in front of the ringling museum in sarasota wearing a blue dress

Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

For interesting Florida day trips, go to the extensive Fairchild Tropical Garden. Spanning over 80 acres, you’ll find endless beautiful panoramic views. You’ll see the life at these bustling gardens like palm tree glades, butterfly gardens, and tropical fruit conservatories. There is so much to explore that tram rides are also available for a non walking tour of the gardens. Go on a day where these gardens are hosting an event for even more fun. You might be able to catch some events such as watercolor classes, live music nights, or even ice cream making.

Palm trees create tropical paradise reflected on the water at beautiful botanic gardens is a great place to visit for any florida trips

Retreat to sunken gardens, experience the magic of bioluminescence, and visit the stunning old fortresses on emerald waters. Use this list to help plan the best Florida day trips for yourself and friends. These spots are bound to make great memories!

For even more ideas on how to best explore Florida, check out our tips for awesome activities , nightlife, and restaurants you must try.

fun day trip

These 10 Unique Day Trips In Pennsylvania Are An Absolute Must-Do

fun day trip

Christi is from Allentown and currently lives and goes to school in Pittsburgh.

More by this Author

Are you wondering what to do this weekend? Maybe your parents are visiting and you want to take them on a fun mini-trip. Perhaps friends from far away are headed your way, or you’re looking for “spontaneous day trips near me” online. No matter the occasion, these 10 unique day trips in Pennsylvania showcase some of the best that our beautiful state has to offer. Take your pick, and enjoy one of the best day trips in PA .

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The 10 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Pennsylvania

The 10 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In Pennsylvania

fun day trip

We have so many day trip destinations in Pennsylvania that we might not know where to start! What are your favorite unique day trips in Pennsylvania? Let us know in the comments! On the lookout for activities that are free? Here are 15 fun and free things to do in Pennsylvania .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Unique day trips in pennsylvania.

What are some natural hidden gems in Pennsylvania?

We have no shortage of natural wonders in Pennsylvania that are perfect for a day trip.

  • Erie Bluffs is a tiny but largely undeveloped park that features stunning views from natural bluffs.
  • The White Cliffs of Conoy, in Marietta, boast sensational views of the Susquehanna River.
  • Hammmersley Wild Area is the most remote spot in Pennsylvania. If you go to the wild area, you can explore one of the picturesque hiking trails.
  • Discover why ice forms in the summer and melts in the winter at Coudersport Ice Mine.
  • Zip down Meadow Run Natural Water Slide at Ohiopyle State Park to cool off in the summer.

What are the best Pennsylvania attractions?

  • Pennsylvania’s brimming with outdoor attractions that are sure to add plenty of fun and adventure to your itinerary.
  • If you love animals, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Lehigh Valley Zoo, where you can get an up-close view of penguins, giraffes, and other adorable animals.
  • Wolf Sanctuary in Lititz is another prime destination for animal lovers. The sanctuary offers guided tours and even hosts evening tours from time to time.
  • Salt Springs State Park in Montrose provides an idyllic backdrop for a day outdoors.
  • Bilger’s Rocks are perfect for a hike among chiseled boulders.

What are some of the best Pennsylvania day trips?

Pennsylvania is the perfect launching point for a ton of day trips, whether you want to head to the big city or discover a natural wonder.

  • One of the best Pennsylvania day trips , no matter the time of the year (but especially in the fall), is Pine Creek Gorge, the Grand Canyon of PA. It boasts stunning natural scenery and numerous hiking trails.
  • Wander through the wildflowers at Tyler Arboretum in Media.
  • Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful lavender at Hope Hill Lavender Farm in Pottsville.
  • A stroll along the Kinzua Bridge Skywalk is picture-perfect, especially during the peak of fall foliage.

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24 Weekend Getaways, Road Trips & Day Trips from Kansas City

Sharing is caring!

If you’re looking for short road trips or fun day trips from Kansas City, there are great spots all over. We know you don’t want to drive too far…

But, there are easy weekend getaways nearby! Just a quick 3 (ish) hour road trip with the family. 

Whether you want to explore the outdoors, find mini vacation spots, or just find things to do in new cities, there are places for everyone to go. We hope your family enjoys these fun day trip ideas for kids! If you’re looking to stay closer to home, check out our Staycation Guide too!

Disclaimer : iFamilyKC is supported by its readers. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. THANK YOU!

fun day trip

We’re big fans of getting out of town for a few days…but where to go? How far can kids realistically ride in a car?  Kids can make it 3 or 4 hours, and then the questions begin and the movies get old. So we gathered the below list of destination ideas and resources for you!

Pro tips: keep the kids happy with their own travel snack boxes for the road. Grab some travel wipes to keep the messes at bay. Plus, any time you’re on a road trip, a dashcam is a great insurance policy.

Best Road Trips from Kansas City!

There are 24 fun road trips from Kansas City, all about a 3-hour drive. These vacation ideas are perfect for a weekend getaway near Kansas City:  

As you head out of town, you might consider having even a small simple security camera to keep an eye on things while you’re gone. Peace of mind, while you’re on your trip, is invaluable!

Day Trips from Kansas City

 If you’re looking for fun day trips from KC, or better yet a weekend adventure, this is for you! Get your family out of town… even if it’s just for a weekend trip! 

> Cave Springs

If you’re looking for a super close trip, Cave Springs is worth considering. Because it is located in Raytown, you can make it there in less than 30 minutes!

There is a small waterfall, hiking trails, and other fun things to explore – learn more now.

Cave Springs Park in Raytown MO

> Visit the Sunflowers

There are 14+ sunflower fields near KC that you can visit with your family. This is a short day trip from the metro, which is perfect if you have small children…

Grinter Farms Sunflowers in Kansas City

> Ha Ha Tonka State Park Day Trip

1491 State Road D, Camdenton, MO 65020

(2 hours, 41 minutes)

Weekend roadtrip to Ha Ha Tonka State Park from Kansas CIty

You can make this its own weekend getaway or stop by while you are in the Lake of the Ozarks area. Plus, the drive on the day trip from Kansas City is beautiful!

Ha Ha Tonka State Park is located in the Lake of the Ozarks area. You can definitely make it one of the best weekend trips from Kansas City to the Ozarks.

Things to do at Haha Tonka:

There are lakes and trails, and you can head over to Branson for fun too! You can rent boats & jet skis at local marinas and swim till your hands turn pruney! If you like hiking or the outdoors in general, this state park is the place for you…  

One of the highlights is a turn-of-the-century castle built high on a bluff and more than 15 miles of walking trails. These trails lead to sinkholes, natural bridges, caves, and of course the lake itself!

Just head down for the day and pack a lunch for a picnic or decide to make a camping trip out of it!

Where to Stay:

If you’re wanting to stay for the night, there are many choices that make a great overnight trip for families:

> Canoe, Float, or Paddle the Niangua River

Lebanon, MO & surrounding areas (many campsites & rentals)

(about 3 hours) (IF YOU WANT MORE FLOAT TRIP IDEAS WE’VE GOT THEM HERE)

Things to Do on the Niangua River:

Your family can canoe, kayak, float in inner tubes, or raft down the Niangua River! This fun road trip near Lake of the Ozarks is great if your family loves the outdoors or is looking for an adventure. 

There are many fun campgrounds, cabins, & hotels in the area, so it will definitely make a fun weekend trip. Explore the many campsites & rentals available like the Floating R or NRO , which has free camping options available. Big Bear River Resort offers adorable cabins, canoes, camping & great fishing spots too!

Food on the Niangua River:

Depending on where you start your float trip, you can stop at The Gravel Bar & Grill at the Sand Springs Resort .

This restaurant is right off the river, so you can walk from your canoe. It has basic American food, offering something for everyone in your family. They also offer lodging at the resort, so if you are looking for a place to stay and rent your canoes, this might be the spot!

This day trip location is a little further away, so you may want to stay overnight – especially if you spend all day paddling on the river! These are just one of many great options:

> Tanganyika Wildlife Park

1000 S. Hawkins Lane, Goddard, KS 67052

(3 hours, 8 minutes)

Weekend Getaways near Kansas City

Tanganyika Wildlife Park is one of the most unique day trips from Kansas City. Not sure if it would be a day trip, since it is 3 hours, but could be a great weekend getaway in Kansas!  

It is a family-owned zoo with one of the largest animal collections in the state. There are over 40 exhibits, including several interactive stations for your kids to learn.

This is definitely a trip stop to add to your list.  

Tanganyika is the only place in the US where you can interact with ring-tail lemurs in their island habitat and feed Indian rhinos and pygmy hippos.

From most of the reviews that I read, it is a great place for younger kids —more animals in a smaller area to save their little legs (and grandparents too!)

There and back will be about 6 hours in total, so consider finding a place to stay for the night:

> Northwest Arkansas

Rogers, Fayetteville, Springdale

(3 hours, 15 minutes) If your family loves the outdoors, this is a great weekend getaway with your kids! 

Things to Do in NW Arkansas:

There are tons of great family things to do in Northwest Arkansas…not to mention the scenery! You can camp along the river, swim in the clear water, & have quality family time on your family’s vacation. Don’t forget to try canoeing while you are on the river!

There is the Botanical Garden of the Ozarks , Charlie & Willie George Park which features a fun spray park for the kids to cool off & TONS of great hiking. There are also unique things to do in NW Arkansas like, exploring the Dickson Street Bookshop or taking in a local museum.

You can visit the Museum of Native American History , Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art , or the Museum of Discovery – a fantastic kids’ activity! Last but certainly not least, you have to check out the Walmart Museum.

There’s so much to see and do in Northwest AR. Visit:

Fayetteville, AR

Springdale, AR

Bentonville, AR

Best Food in NW Arkansas:

You also need to eat. So, be sure to check out Crepes Paulette – where you can watch your food be cooked – or The Farmer’s Table Cafe to try food created all by local Arkansas farmers. You can also take a little drive to try  Kyya Chocolate – unique chocolate that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

In Bentonville, AR try:

Ron’s Hamburgers & Chili :

1702 South Walton Blvd. Bentonville, AR 72712

The Buttered Biscuit

1403 SE MOBERLY LN,

BENTONVILLE AR, 72712

Smokin Joe’s Ribhouse

2504 E Central Ave

Bentonville, 72712

In Springdale, AR try:

Wagon Wheel Country Cafe

4080 N Thompson St.

In Rogers, AR try:

Monte Ne Chicken Inn

13843 E. Highway 94

Rogers, AR 72758

Big Orange Burgers, Salad, Shakes

2203 S Promenade Blvd Ste. 3100

In Fayetteville try:

Hugo’s

25 1/2 N Block Ave

Fayetteville, AR 72701

Penguin Ed’s

2 locations in Fayetteville!

Hammontree Grilled Cheese

326 N West Ave #8

Pro tip: passengers taking a break might enjoy a little travel pillow to snag a quick nap before their turn to drive again!

> Roaring River State Park

12716 Farm Road 2239, Cassville, MO 65625

(3 hours, 17 minutes)

The Roaring River State Park is a great day trip from Kansas City when the weather is warm. You can also make it an overnight trip with camping if it’s a little further for you (Depending on what part of town you’re in) .

Things to Do in Roaring River:

There is so much nature to explore – it could fill your entire weekend! Trout fishing is obviously its biggest draw but there are great things to do and see for the whole family.  

The park is one of the premier trout fisheries in the nation and is stocked each night. There are also 7 trails that lead through the hills, including the Deer Leap trail that overlooks the fish hatchery. There are options to camp as well, including renting a cabin for the weekend.

Roaring Rivers State Park in Missouri Day Trip

> Eureka Springs, AR

(3 hours and 50 minutes)

Eureka Springs prides itself on its fabulous festivals. 

I personally love the St. Patrick’s Day celebration and have participated many times, but there are several more throughout the summer—just check to make sure they would be fun for the kids! It is the perfect place for a day or weekend trip from Kansas City!

Things to Do in Eureka Springs, AR:

The city itself is nestled in the Arkansas hills and has great hiking & outdoor adventures.

Check out Lake Leatherwood for hiking, fishing, canoeing & more outdoor activities.

Downtown Eureka Springs is also a great stop; filled with shopping, restaurants & historic character. There are tons of eccentric shops and art galleries to explore too. You can always find good music in many areas of the city, especially during Blues Weekend.

Best Food in Eureka Springs:

Parkside Pretzel & Snack Bar has everything pretzel – pretzel dogs, pretzel churros…use your imagination! Their reviews are stellar & also feature some healthy options. Eureka Springs Funnel Cake Factory also needs to be on your list. If you’re looking for more dinner food, check out the Rockin’ Pig Saloon for yummy ribs & burgers, or Emilio’s Italian Home Cooking . This delicious Italian spot is located inside an old house, with a more upscale feel.   

Plan on staying the night in either The Crescent or The Basin Park Hotel . Both have their share of ghost stories, but their true draw is how they pull you into the vintage feel of the city. I have stayed at both but I don’t think got an ounce of sleep because the lights were always on and I was constantly checking under the bed!

At nearly 4 hours away from the city, you’ll want to stop for a good night’s rest before you head back to KC. Here are some of the closest options:

> Rent a Cabin Near Kansas City

(1-3 hours depending on the cabin)

There are many nice cabins near Kansas City, as well as in the city limits. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or a weekend getaway in the woods, these cabins are always a great idea!

Find large cabins for multiple families, or small cabin sites perfect for a small family trip.

> Branson

(3 hours or less)

Branson is one of the best road trips from Kansas City, because of the windy roads and beautiful scenery. So, start planning a fun weekend getaway.

Things to do in Branson, MO:

There are so many things to do in and around Branson it is mind-blowing; shopping at outlets , dining, amusement parks, go-karts, bumper cars & boats, duck rides, museums, Table Rock State Park has ALL the fun a lake can provide & everything in between!

You could spend a day or two at Silver Dollar City alone. You can grab a coupon book for the outlets too!

Be sure to check out shows like The SIX , Silver Dollar City , and the MASSIVE go-kart tracks! Your family is sure to find kids activities everyone will love.

With Table Rock Lake nearby so you can cool off too. Visit  Table Rock State Park , which has fantastic camping, fishing, boating & great swimming areas! The park is situated on one of the largest lakes in the country, so you are sure to get a beautiful view.  Find more things to do in Branson now!

Best Food in Branson, MO:

On your drive down, stop at Lambert’s , “home of the throwed rolls” in Ozark, MO. It is home cooking at its finest…while they throw rolls at you to eat! Cakes & Cream is one of our family’s favorites. It is a 50’s diner with more desserts than you could imagine. You can get many old classics there.

For the best shakes & homemade pies in town, stop at Billy Bob’s Dairyland . They feature tasty treats as well as yummy burgers & other diner food. (They also have amazing service…)

Branson offers tons of hotels and resorts , but there are also some gems through Airbnb that offer more privacy for families. There are beautifully redone farmhouses , modern cabins and log cabins available too!

> Amana Colonies Weekend Trip

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is Amana-Colonies-Day-Trip.jpg

622 46th Avenue Amana, IA 52203

(4 hours, 29 minutes) While this is longer than the 3-hour trips from Kansas City, the Amana Colonies have something for everyone. Plus, if you are looking for a weekend trip, going further away from home may be fun!

Things to Do at Amana Colonies:

The colonies host events each weekend, from a dog speed racers competition to woodworking festivals, so there is always something to do.

They celebrate a rich heritage in arts and crafts and take visitors away from the hustle and bustle of busy life…check it out for your next weekend trip out of KC.

In fact, The Wurst Festival , a celebration of all things sausage , was named the Best New Event of 2015 by the Iowa Tourism Commission.

There are many places to stay camping, bed, and breakfasts, and hotels nearby.

Best Food in Amana Colonies:

If you like German-American food, try the Ox Yoke Inn for fresh, handmade food. The restaurant dates back to the 1940s, so there are definitely delicious reasons it is still in business. Or, head to the Ronneburg Restaurant for another take on German cooking. Both restaurants are highly rated.   

There are surprisingly quite a few places to stay in and around the colonies. Check them out below:

> Topeka Day Trip

(45 minutes to an hour)

Even though Topeka is our state capital, most people haven’t explored it even though it is one of the best day trips from Kansas City! With Topeka less than an hour from most places in KC, it is a cheap getaway from Kansas City.

Things to do in Topeka, KS:

There are tons of fun things to do like the Topeka Zoo & Shawnee Lake . Check out our top 6 things to do with kids in Topeka . 

You can even climb to the TOP of the state capitol building , which we definitely recommend during your day trip. Tour reservations are not needed for groups of 10 or smaller. The spiral staircase winds right up the middle of the capitol dome, so don’t look down!

Best Food in Topeka, KS :

Bobo’s Diner is a Topeka classic – handmade onion rings, fries & burgers! They were featured on Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives, so you know it’s delicious.

If Mexican is your fam’s jam, El Centenario makes homemade dishes every day. If the kiddos are all in on awesome grilled cheese sandwiches. and mom & dad like craft beer, The Wheel Barrel is a must. They’re located in the NOTO Arts District and are famous for their gourmet grilled cheese & selection of craft beers. You can’t go wrong with anything on your list. 

If you decide to make a weekend of it, there are some family-friendly spots to stay:

> Roadtrip to Des Moines, IA

(2.5 hours – 3 hours)

While Des Moines isn’t the most attractive city to visit, there are tons of things to do with kids in Des Moines. Plus, the drive is manageable for a weekend trip or getaway. 

Things to Do in Des Moines, IA :

Explore Adventureland Themepark , which includes an outdoor waterpark, a theme park, and indoor pools. Or, your family can check out the Science Center of Iowa , where learning is brought to life.

Don’t miss Iowa’s wildest adventure at  Blank Park Zoo  or find fun things to do outside like Gray’s Lake Park, the Living History Farms , or the Iowa State Fairgrounds (if you can make the trip during the Iowa State Fair ).

There’s also the State Capitol Building you can tour and the downtown Des Moines farmer’s market – rated the 2nd best farmer’s market in America

There are fun kids’ activities here that make learning fun! There are also areas with tons of room to play, like Pappajohn Sculpture Park or the Des Moines Botanical Gardens . The sculpture park is a great place for kids to play while enjoying the artwork…plus it’s free!

You can also enjoy some yummy ice cream at Black Cat Ice Cream , just across the street from the sculpture park.

> Wichita, Kansas Day Trip

(3 hours, 20 minutes)

Things to do in Wichita, KS:

Wichita is home to the Museum of World Treasures , which has an extensive World War II collection as well as shrunken heads, dinosaurs, ancient Egyptians, and everything in between.

The Exploration Place , a science education center, is also filled with fun kids’ activities and things to do. Your kids will explore a variety of hands-on activities & exhibits…think of it as the Science City of Wichita. Check out the Exploration Place calendar of events to see what’s happening while you are there.  

There is also the Sedgwick County Zoo , the Botanical Gardens of Wichita , and the Cowtown Museum , which has FREE admission on Sundays from noon to 5 pm. Also, be sure to visit the Keeper of the Plains statue !

fun day trip

Wichita also has its’ own amusement park, All-Star Adventures ! There are go-karts, bumper boats, mini golf, slides, kiddie copters, a driving range, and other fun family activities. You can find other fun things to do with kids in Wichita easily too!

If you are looking for other fun things to do near Wichita, KS check out the Wildlife Park below!

Best Food in Wichita, KS:

If you’re looking for yummy places to eat be sure to check out Dempsey’s Biscuit Co or Piatto for delicious pizzas. Also, be sure to check out the world’s largest mural painted by a single artist – Horizontes.   For an old-fashioned loose-meat burger and house-made root beer stop into Nuway ! The kids will love it.

Depending on where you’re planning on exploring, there are great options all over the city:

> Meade, KS

(camping, dalton gang hideout & state park).

502 S Pearlette Street, Meade, Kansas

If you’re into history, this is a small town worth visiting. The Dalton Gang Hideout was the home of Eva Whipple, the sister of the Dalton Gang outlaw group. A hidden tunnel was discovered to hide the gang members.

It’s now considered a Kansas tourist attraction, where you can tour the home and the tunnel (reconstructed version). There is also a historical museum!

In addition to the history, there is a beautiful state park – Meade State Park . There is a 360-acre area filled with wildlife, as well as campsites and a lake.

You can camp or fish at the lake with your family to enjoy the great outdoors!

If you don’t want to tent camp, there are other places in the area to stay overnight:

> Omaha Road Trip

(2 hours, 40 minutes)

Omaha, Nebraska is even shorter than a 3-hour trip from Kansas City. Close enough that you can handle the drive but far enough away that it feels like a getaway…

Things to Do in Omaha, NE:

Take advantage of this fun & inexpensive city with these things to do with kids. There is the famous Henry Doorly Zoo , the Wildlife Safari Park , the Aerospace Museum, The Omaha Children’s Museum, the Rose Theater , & tons of free things to do throughout the year. Admission to the Joslyn Art Museum is always free!

There are also beautiful state parks like The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park , which features a suspended ropes course in the trees. There is also a pool, wave pool, splash park, horse riding, mini golf & disc golf, Venture Climb rock climbing & other unique activities. This park has more to do than almost any we have seen…

Best Food in Omaha:

You can also find tons of great restaurants like Mayne Street Market , Yoshitomo (if your fam likes sushi), Hurry Bird (for some creative, delicious breakfast and lunch burritos), or Johnny’s Cafe for delicious food near the old stockyards!

> St. Louis Road Trip

(3 to 3 and a half hours)

Depending on where you are road-tripping from in Kansas City, St. Louis isn’t that far. There are too many things to do with kids in St. Louis for just one day, so make a weekend road trip out of the day trip!

Things to Do in St. Louis:

You can explore the St. Louis Gateway Arch , World Bird Sanctuary , St. Louis Aquarium (the perfect place for kids), Magic House Children’s Museum , and many other kids’ activities. Take a stroll through the Missouri Botanical Gardens, which features a beautiful Japanese garden.

Or, check out Forest Park , which is larger than New York’s Central Park!

Check out our St. Louis Road Trip guide for more ideas of things to do in St. Louis. You could fill an entire weekend trip with these ideas!

Best Food in St. Louis:

If you check out the arch in the morning, be sure to try Chili Mac’s Diner !

Crown Candy is definitely worth a visit. This is a century-old Soda Fountain restaurant that is a St. Louis classic. You will feel like you stepped back in time to 1913 as soon as you step in their doors.

After you try their candy, ice cream & delicious food…it’s game over. Their hearty BLT is stacked to the brim (overflowing really…) with yummy bacon! There are also some delicious donuts at O’Fashion Donuts . Head to The Hill and enjoy some great Italian food at the many restaurants located there.

> Roadtrip to Joplin

(2 hours, 30 minutes)

Things to Do in Joplin, MO:

There are tons of fun things to do in Joplin during your day trip from KC! You can visit a giant waterfall – Grand Falls , George Washington Carver National Monumen t , or walk around downtown Joplin . The Sunshine Lamp District is even named after Joplin’s booming mining days, so you’ll be trendy while walking through history!

There are cute stores to shop, yummy restaurants to try, & even an indoor adventure playground for the kiddos. You can also visit the winery if it’s more of an adult-only road trip! 

Best Food in Joplin:

If BBQ is your thing, you can’t miss Big R’s BBQ & Pies . The locals love this spot for its great BBQ and you can finish off with one of their great pies, so you don’t want to skip this spot!

The Red Onion Cafe is located in a 100-year-old building & highly rated across the board. They serve American food in a relaxed setting – be sure to try the Smoked Chicken Dip! 

> Columbia, MO

(2 hours, 10 minutes)  

Things to Do in Columbia, MO:  

At MU, you can visit the Museum of Art & Archaeology or the Francis Quadrangle , with giant pillars towering overhead. Or, check out the Columbia Art League in downtown Columbia.  Besides visiting The University of Missouri, there are other fun things to do with kids like nature parks.

If your family likes the outdoors, there are many great parks & hiking trails like Rock Bridge Memorial State Park , Finger Lakes State Park , Stephens Lake Beach & Park , or Capen Park .

Finger Lakes State Park is probably the most unique thing you can do, with trails for ATVs, motorbiking, & four-wheelers. There is also a lake where you can go scuba diving, swimming, fishing & non-motorized boating. You can rent kayaks & canoes at the park, so all you have to bring is your family!  

Also visit the Shelter Gardens , a 5-acre botanical garden that is perfect to take a stroll…  

Best Food in Columbia, MO:  

If you’re looking for healthy options, try the Main Squeeze Natural Foods Cafe , which is rated very highly.  If you’re in the mood for good-old deliciousness, try Just Jeff’s Street Food , they have two locations.

They supposedly have the best chili dogs in all of Columbia. Addison’s is also a yummy place to try. Their nachos are our favorite!  You can’t go wrong by stopping for a pizza at Shakespeare’s Pizza, a Columbia tradition since 1973 with 3 locations.

> Eagles Bluff Conservation Area

Columbia, MO 65203

(2 hours, 6 minutes)

If you’re looking to get away from the city…this is the place for you. There are miles and miles of nature to be explored – the perfect place for a nature weekend getaway. Plus, the shorter drives make this one of our favorite day trips from Kansas City…  

There is the Katy Trail State Park , which provides trails to bike, hike, or even ride horses! You can also explore other regions of the conservation area with fishing, hiking trails, camping, bird watching & other fun outdoor activities. 

> Rock City

1051 Ivy Road Minneapolis, KS 67467

(2 hours, 49 minutes)

About 20 miles away from Salina, there are giant spherical rocks, formed when Kansas was under an ocean. There are over 200 rocks you can explore!   You have a couple of options.

1. Rock City is the larger of the 2 attractions, with close to 200 rock formations, but costs $3.

2. Mushroom Rock State Park , which is smaller, is free to the public. If your children love to run around or climb on things, this is a fun place to explore. Check out the website to see cool pictures of mushroom rocks !     

> Go on a Safari

124 Jungle Drive, Strafford, MO 65757

Looking for more unique day trips from Kansas City? This safari is just minutes away from Springfield, MO. (See our Springfield Guide below). How about a wildlife excursion…it’s a drive-thru animal safari in the middle of Missouri! There are over 450 animals for your family to come to visit. 

While there is not a ton to do, the Safari is definitely a unique experience that makes it worth the day trip drive from Kansas City. Make it a short getaway with an overnight stay for the family all together!

> Atchison, KS

Because Amelia Earhart was born in Atchison, you can learn about her at the Amelia Earhart Museum , at her birthplace. Also, visit the Atchison County Historical Society Museum located in the historic 1880 Santa Fe Depot. Check out the Atchison Rail Museum .

If you want to enjoy the outdoors, hang out at Jackson Park or cross the Missouri River and visit the Lewis & Clark State Park . 

Where to eat:

Grab a sandwich at one of these yummy stops: Mr. G’s , JW Boy’s BBQ , or Willie’s Sports Pub . You can’t go wrong.

> Springfield, MO

(2 hours 40 minutes)

Things to Do:

Shop the original, and one of the largest, Bass Pro Shops ! Explore the incredible caves of the Ozarks or go on a safari at The Wild Animal Safari in nearby Stafford, MO.

Find your favorite style of cashew chicken at one of these places on the official Cashew Chicken Trail.

Step back in time on Route 66 and grab a burger at Red’s Giant Hamburg or eat at a classic diner like Casper’s .

Use these Tips for Traveling with Kids to pass the time faster and make your road trip more enjoyable. There are fun car games & tips to keep your family safe. 

Looking for other fun places to stay near Kansas City?

  • Lake Cabins Near KC
  • Tent Glamping
  • Treehouse Cabin Near Leavenworth
  • Large Rentals for Multi-Families or Groups

If you can’t get out of KC, check out:

  • Cave Springs in Raytown
  • Our favorite playgrounds ( & have a picnic )
  • Have a  Downtown KC Staycation Guide
  • Explore the Best Things to Do in Kansas City with kids .

Pro tip: make your driver comfy for these family road trips. We love these beaded seat covers to keep you cool and comfortable.

What are some of your favorite places to visit near the metro? Let us know in the comments!

If you want to stay up to date, click below to join THE SCOOP! Get it delivered right to your inbox!

From our family to yours, iFamilyKC

fun day trip

Tags: Branson Gladstone Joplin Liberty Omaha Raytown Springdale Springfield

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

Looking down a sidewalk in the German Village of Columbus Ohio. The houses are surrounded by flower pots with flowers in several different colors. There is a clock hanging on a wrought iron shepherds hook. The buildings are brick with terraces that have German flags hanging from them. One of the best Ohio day trips.

15 Best Ohio Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns, & More!)

February 28, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored 2 Comments

Are you looking for the best Ohio day trips?

Then I have got you covered! There are so many fun things to do in Ohio!

This list is full of the best day trips in Ohio, my home state!

I was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio , so I know firsthand where some of the best places to go in Ohio are.

On this list, you’ll find fun and interesting museums, beautiful state parks, and natural wonders, as well as charming small towns .

No matter what you are interested in, there is an option for fun day trips in Ohio to fit your needs.

So, let’s take a look at the 15 best Ohio day trips, full of hidden gems, small towns, and more!

Looking up at four Ohio state flags flying in front of a government building. You can also see a few high rises. The Ohio state flag has a triangle cut out from the middle of it form the the bottom, has red and white stripes, and a blue triangle with white stars and a white O with a red center.

15 Best Ohio Day Trips (Hidden Gems, Small Towns & More!)

Rock and roll hall of fame museum makes for an awesome ohio day trips activity.

If you are looking for an activity that is unique to Ohio, then consider heading to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum.

It is one of the most incredible things to do in Ohio because it is the only home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The museum is located in downtown Cleveland, right by Lake Erie.

Inside the massive 55,000 square foot building, you’ll find several levels of exhibits dedicated to the history of Rock and Roll.

The I.M. Pei-designed building also houses the offices of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and it’s where the artists who are inducted every year are decided on.

You’ll also find souvenir shops and a cafe, which means you can easily spend the entire day exploring this super-unique museum in Ohio.

This is one of the most perfect Ohio day trips for music lovers!

The exterior of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, one of the best Ohio day trips. It is a pyramid shaped glass building with a big red sign that says 'long live rock' in front of it. You can also see a sign that says 'Rock and Roll Hall of Fame' and looks like it has black and red speakers on it.

Explore The Ohio Caverns

The Ohio Caverns are definitely one of the best hidden gems of the Midwest .

Visitors have been flocking to these cool underground tunnels almost since they were first discovered between 1897 and 1925.

Now, the caverns are known as ‘America’s Most Colorful Caverns’ and still attract thousands of visitors every year.

Depending on the time of the year, the caverns are open for tours at different times.

There are several different types of tours you can take too.

But no matter when you go, you’re sure to enjoy this fun place to go in Ohio.

Looking down a narrow path inside a cavern in Ohio. You can see interest rock formations from both the top and bottom of the cavern that creates an optical illusion. The rocks are different shades of tan.

Visit Chateau Laroche

When you think of Ohio, castles probably don’t come to mind.

But they should!

Ohio is home to several castles , and one of those is Chateau Laroche.

Chateau Laroche is often called Loveland Castle by locals, simply because you can find it in the town of Loveland, Ohio.

The Chateau is a full-size replica of a European castle and features a mishmash of different architectural styles from different European countries.

You will see influences from English, French, and German architectural styles as well as four turrets, each of which has a different style.

The castle is now a museum, where you can tour the inside as well as the grounds, and learn about its eccentric builder.

The exterior of an eclectically designed stone castle in Ohio. There are several towers in different shapes, long narrow windows, and doorways with arched entries. Behind the castle you can see some trees. One of the best Ohio day trips.

Explore The German Village In Columbus

One of the best day trips in Ohio is a day spent in the German Village in Columbus.

The German Village is a charming neighborhood in Columbus.

You’ll find beautiful brick homes and buildings, many originally built in the mid-1800s by the area’s original German immigrants.

It is one of the best places in Columbus to explore one-of-a-kind boutiques, restaurants, and admire the antique architecture.

Just west of the German Village you can also find Columbus’ Brewery District.

The Brewery District was also originally built by the area’s German immigrants and was the hub of the city’s brewing culture.

Even today, it is still one of the best places in Ohio to stroll through.

Amish Country Is A Must For Ohio Day Trips

You can’t visit Ohio and not at least take a detour into Amish Country as it is one of the best Ohio day trips.

Ohio’s Amish Country is located in the east-central area of the state and is easily accessible from most major highways.

While there, you’ll find that there are a lot of unique things to do .

I suggest sampling some authentic Amish food, perusing through the shops and stalls full of Amish-made goods, and taking a scenic drive through the beautiful Amish Country landscape.

Amish Country is also one of the best places in Ohio to drive under one of the famous covered bridges .

The local Amish are very welcoming to visitors, but please be respectful of their lifestyle and religious beliefs.

That includes not photographing them, remembering that they take Sunday as a day of complete rest, and look out for horse-and-buggies while you’re driving.

Check out our list of other festivals and events in Ohio.

Two horse-and-buggies going down a hilly road. The road is surrounded by farm fields and trees. In the background you can see a large red barn.

Visit The Pro Football Hall Of Fame In Canton

Football fans will love this fun option for day trips in Ohio.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is located in Canton Ohio.

Inside, you’ll find tons of exhibits all relating to American football.

It’s no surprise that football fans travel from all over the world to spend the day exploring this really unique museum experience.

There are interactive exhibits and fascinating tours that teach you all about the history of football and some of its most iconic players.

You will even find exhibits dedicated to each Pro Football team, so you will be able to admire memorabilia from your favorite team.

Inside the Super Bowl Theater, you’ll also be able to view videos that highlight some of football’s superstars.

The exterior of the Pro Football Hall Of Fame. It is a partially brick building with a large entry made of floor to ceiling windows inside a white stone portion of the building. You can see a sign for the museum and pictures hanging in the building of different football players.

Step Into History At The National Underground Rail Road Freedom Center

You can find the National Underground Rail Road Freedom Center in Cincinnati.

It is specifically located along the banks of the Ohio River because the Ohio River used to be a natural divider between ‘free’ and ‘slave’ states.

The ‘free’ states were those above the Ohio River and the ‘slave’ states were those below the Ohio River.

So it was naturally one of the best crossing points for enslaved peoples looking to escape.

Now you can learn about the history of the Underground Rail Road in Ohio at the center.

The center highlights stories of those who helped enslaved peoples escape to Ohio as well as the stories of those who managed to find freedom in Ohio.

It is an incredibly moving museum.

While we believe that slavery ended in America with the end of the Civil War, that is sadly not the case.

Slavery continues to occur every day in the form of human trafficking, even in America.

Alongside the exhibits about the Underground Rail Road, you’ll also find exhibits that highlight and inform visitors about the modern-day slave trade.

The exterior of the National Underground Railroad Freedom center. It is a stone building with different angles and a dark brick roof and siding. Behind it you can see a small ferris wheel and in front of it is a courtyard with small trees.

Admire The Kelleys Island Glacial Grooves

The Kelleys Island Glacial Grooves are an Ohio natural wonder on Kelleys Island.

It is an island just off the coast of Lake Erie near Sandusky.

Kelleys Island is super tiny and you can only reach it via ferry.

So keep that in mind when you are planning this Ohio day trip adventure.

To get around the island you will need to walk.

There are no cars permitted, but at only four miles by two miles, that probably will not be a problem.

You can see a few things on the tiny island, but the most popular is the glacial grooves.

The grooves were created by a glacier slowly sliding on the landscape and carving the grooves over time.

It is one of the coolest places to go in Ohio.

Looking down the path of the Kelleys Island Glacial Grooves. They are smoothed out rock grooves in a dark grey rock. The grooves all fluctuate in depth and shape. In the distance you can see a metal bridge with trees behind it crossing the grooves. One of the best Ohio day trips.

Put-In-Bay For One Of The Most Romantic Ohio Day Trips

The small town of Put-in-Bay is a great spot for a romantic getaway or even just a romantic day trip.

It is located on an island on the shores of Lake Erie, so you’ll be surrounded by beautiful beach views.

You can walk around the island, check out the shops, get a delicious meal, or just stroll along the sand.

Put-in-Bay is also home to Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

The memorial was put in place to remember the Battle of Lake Erie and the peace that followed for Canada, Britain, and the United States.

The small island also has its own state park, which is near Put-in-Bay, called the South Bass Island State Park.

There are also a few museums, a butterfly house, and a limestone cave, all waiting for you to explore them.

An aerial view of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. You can see a large stone tower memorial, grassy areas with trees, a few buildings, and a boat marina. The island is surrounded by water in Lake Erie.

Hocking Hills State Park Is One Of The Best Ohio Day Trips

One of my favorite places to go in Ohio is Hocking Hills State Park .

Hocking Hills State Park is a natural Ohio attraction that everyone should take the time to visit.

While you explore the park you’ll find gorgeous waterfalls , scenic hiking trails , and unique rock formations dotted throughout the lush forest landscape.

The area around the state park is also full of fun activities. There are shops, restaurants, and historic museums.

If you are looking to escape to the great outdoors for one of your next day trips in Ohio, then you can’t go wrong with a day spent at Hocking Hills State Park.

A waterfall cascading over dark stone into a pool of blue water. The rock formation is surround by trees and in the distance you can see a stone bridge that goes over the waterfall. The trees have green, yellow, and orange leaves. One of the best Ohio day trips.

Explore Ashtabula Beaches And Parks

Ashtabula is an adorable small town, probably best known for its wonderful Lakeshore Park.

The Lakeshore Park is located on the shores of Lake Erie and is about 54 acres of trails, sandy shores, and park area.

What makes the park and the beaches of Ashtabula so popular are actually a few different things.

The beaches are very pretty, and Lakeshore Park is full of amenities.

There are grassy areas where you can picnic or relax and play some horseshoe, a playground for kids, volleyball courts, pavilions, and even a public boat dock.

You could easily spend an entire day in Ashtabula.

That’s what makes it one of the best small towns in Ohio for a day trip.

An aerial view of looking down the Lake Erie coast in Ashtabula. The water is very blue and the shoreline is mostly rocky or grassy. You can see a large area of trees and then some houses that are very close to the shore line, up a slight hill.

Westerville Is One Of The Cutest Small Towns In Ohio

If you are looking to explore one of the cutest small towns in Ohio , head to Westerville.

For those near Columbus, Westerville is just a short 20-minute drive away.

In the small town, you will find a great main street with unique shops and restaurants.

You can stroll through the Sharon Woods Metro Park or the Inniswood Metro Garden if you want to enjoy some beautiful small-town landscapes.

For those that are interested in history, Westerville is a cool place to visit.

A fun fact about the town is that it was called ‘The Dry Capital of the World’ because it continued the prohibition of alcohol long after the US rolled back prohibition laws.

While you are in town, history lovers should also make a stop at the historic Everal Barn and Homestead.

Westerville is a quaint little town that is easily one of the best places to go in Ohio.

Looking across a pond at a brick farmhouse that has a few smaller buildings around it. Near the shore of the pond is a large white church with a steeple. The area is grassy and there are trees with red, yellow, and orange leaves on them.

Explore Geneva-On-The-Lake Wineries

Geneva-on-the-Lake has a lot to offer for those looking to plan fun day trips in Ohio.

The town was one of the first lakeside resort towns in Ohio, is a great romantic getaway , and has tons of shops and restaurants to try out.

But one of the best things about Geneva-on-the-Lake is the area’s wineries.

Within about a 30-mile radius, all around Geneva-on-the-Lake, there are at least 20 different wineries.

You can choose to take your own winery tour or take one that is offered by one of the wine tour companies in the area.

People come from all over the state to spend a day sampling one-of-a-kind wines and stroll through the picturesque vineyards.

A close up image of purple grapes on a vine in a vineyard. The leaves around the grapes are very green and you can just barely see a cloudy sky and a grassy path below the plant.

Stroll Through The Holden Arboretum

You can find the Holden Arboretum in Kirtland Ohio.

It is actually one of the largest botanical gardens and arboretums in the United States.

A trip to the Holden Arboretum can easily fill a day.

There are over 3,000 acres of natural areas and sensitive habitats.

Additionally, there are about 600 acres of planned gardens.

The arboretum has been open since 1931 and is one of the best places to go in Ohio if you want to explore a unique landscape.

A pond that has lily pads, grasses, and large plants in it. There is also a goose with goslings swimming behind it. In the distance, on the shore of the pond, you can see lots of trees and tall grasses. One of the best Ohio day trips.

Enjoy Family Ohio Day Trips To Cedar Point Amusement Park

One of the best family-friendly Ohio day trips is Cedar Point Amusement Park.

Cedar Point is located in Sandusky on a Lake Erie peninsula.

Ohio also has Cedar Point partly to thank for the title of “Roller Coaster Capital of the World”.

The amusement park has 18 roller coasters, all at different thrill levels.

Because it is also near the beach, there is a waterpark and you can also enjoy a private beach area with your ticket to the park.

Cedar Point is a popular family destination in the warmer months.

It is easily one of the best amusement parks in the Midwest , and it is one of the most fun places to go in Ohio.

Looking at a wooden rollercoaster. The sky is dark and there are a few trees near the rollercoaster.

There are so many fun options for Ohio day trips on this list, it is hard to pick just one.

But no matter what mood you are in or what interests you, there are cool places to go in Ohio for your next day trip.

Have you been to any of these fun Ohio destinations?

I would love to hear about your day trips in Ohio, so leave me a comment!

Packing Tips When Taking Day Ohio Day Trips

Read about how to travel with just carry-on sized luggage to make your trip easier and more organized.

A  concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when taking day trips in Ohio.  It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves  are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external  charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies with all those nature shots in Iowa.

Hydration is so important when hiking. You want to remain hydrated throughout your Ohio travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures fresh water when you want it.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car. Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when celebrating Christmas in Ohio. No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack!

Romantic sunset with gazebo in Geneva Ohio

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April 12, 2022 at 8:36 pm

Being a Buckeye myself I loved your list. I’ve been to several of them. Just a quick shout out about Kelley’s Island-you are allowed to drive cars on the island. Thanks again for the nice post.

[…] These underground tunnels were discovered between 1897 and 1025 and have become a popular day-trip spot in Ohio. […]

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She Saves She Travels

22 Incredible Day Trips from Las Vegas You’ll Absolutely Love

Posted on Published: December 15, 2022  - Last updated: January 29, 2024

Looking to escape the busy city of Las Vegas? Of course you are! There’s so many amazing adventures just minutes away. If you’re looking for the best day trips from Las Vegas, here’s your list!

day trips from Las Vegas view of massive multi colored canyon

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Las Vegas has a reputation for shopping, dining and casinos – and it lives up to the hype! But if you’re craving adventure – or some nature – taking a day trip from Las Vegas is a great way to do just that.

Leave the crowded strip and hit the road!

Some of the best day trips are just 20 minutes away, while others will take you away the entire day from sunrise to sunset (or beyond). Whether you’re traveling solo , celebrating a birthday in Vegas with friends, as a couple or with your family, there’s something on this epic list of day trips from Las Vegas to fit every travel style .

Let’s dive in!

Map of the best day trips from Las Vegas

If you’re a visual person like I am, this map of the best places to visit near Las Vegas will help you plan your perfect adventure.

By the way, as someone who’s actively checking places off my travel bucket list , I haven’t been everywhere (yet). So I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with these things to do near Las Vegas. Enjoy!

Day trips from Las Vegas

Located in the Mojave Desert, there’s so much to see and do in the area. Here are some of the best ideas for things to do outside of Vegas!

1. Red Rock Canyon (one of the best things to do near Las Vegas)

Las Vegas day trips view of red rock canyon drive with road through valley of red rocky cliffs

Distance from Las Vegas: 16 miles / 20 minutes

Perhaps one of the shortest day trips from Las Vegas is the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It’s perfect for a full day of adventure away from the busy city, yet close enough for a quick drive.

One of the most popular things to do is the Red Rock Canyon scenic drive . This one-way, 13 mile drive takes you through the entire conservation area. Stop at Calico II to see the vibrant red sandstone rocks.

Bring grippy hiking shoes for the 2.2 mile hike on the Calico Tanks Trail . This fun, interactive hike requires a bit of scrambling to get to the viewpoint of the Las Vegas strip. So cool!

You’ll actually need a timed entry reservation to see the conservation area from October through May, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance! If you can’t grab a spot, consider booking a Red Rock Canyon hiking tour which includes park entry.

Of course, come prepared with enough water and high protein snacks. If you’re hiking be sure to bring the 10 essentials and a satellite communicator in case of emergency.

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

2. Valley of Fire State Park

vegas day trips red swirled rock view of valley of fire state park

Distance from Las Vegas: 56 miles / 48 minutes

Valley of Fire is a famous Nevada State Park, and a nature preserve area known for its breathtaking red sandstone and rock formations. It consists of 40,000 acres of Aztec sandstone.

Prehistoric remnants and unparalleled vistas are intertwined among the valley’s red rocks. There are also ancient petroglyphs that were carved into the Aztec Sandstone rock formations. These spectacular rock formations are best viewed on a sunny day, and every sunset, they illuminate the valley, making it appear they’re on fire.

There are several outdoor activities that you can do in the Valley of Fire. The park offers a short hike for you to survey the area’s scenic views.

As you explore the site, take advantage of these fascinating rock formations like the Valley of Fire Beehives, Atlatl Rock, Elephant Rock and the Fire Wave. They will surely leave you speechless in their beauty.

You can stay overnight in the Valley of Fire; various campgrounds located near this famous spot for camping enthusiasts. And reservations in advance are required, check the  park’s website  for more details.

Valley of Fire is approximately 55 miles northeast of Las Vegas; it would take you about 1 hour to get there by car. Take the I-15 north for about 35 to 40 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. Head east toward the Valley of Fire/Lake Mead from Exit 75. The West Entrance Station is located in the Valley of Fire, about 17 miles away.

The best time to visit the park is in October and April. The temperatures are mild and pleasant during this period, while they are extremely hot during the summer. The park is open from sunrise until sunset.

Recommended by Christine of Guide To Daytrips

3. Kanarra Falls

view of log with steps leading up to Kanarra falls in rocky slot canyon

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 33 minutes

At just 2.5 hours from Las Vegas, Kanarra Falls is the perfect day trip for adventure lovers. Grab your hiking boots and trekking poles and head off to this amazing slot canyon.

After arriving at the trailhead you’ll see a small restroom and ticket counter. They only allow 150 hikers a day, so it’s strongly recommended that you reserve your tickets online before arriving as no more tickets are sold on-site once the limit is reached. 

The hike itself is a moderate 3.8-mile hike directly through an epic slot canyon. Be prepared to get wet as the majority of the hike will have you walking through ankle-deep water (sometimes higher).

After about 1.6 miles you’ll see your first waterfall. If you choose to continue up the ladder, you’ll find the second waterfall about 0.3 miles later.

It will surely be a hike you won’t soon forget. Kanarra Falls is one of the best things to do near Las Vegas!

Recommended by Jordan of The Homebody Tourist

4. Lake Mead

view of Lake Mead blue lake with brown rocks

Distance from Las Vegas: 31 miles / 36 minutes

Lake Mead is a wonderful afternoon or a day escape from the bustling city of Las Vegas! Located less than an hour outside of Las Vegas in Boulder, Nevada, visitors to Lake Mead are greeted with a surplus of outdoor activities sure to provide an outdoor recharge. 

For Lake Mead day trips Las Vegas, it’s recommended to drive so that visitors have flexibility to explore different parts of this natural preserve throughout the afternoon.  

Enjoy hiking, navigating slot canyons, swimming and boating at Lake Mead.  Keep in mind that there is no lifeguard on duty, and that swimming and boating beaches are separated. 

More of a relaxed afternoon can be spent driving to one of the many pull out parking spots to enjoy some views with a picnic lunch. Most of the pull out parking spots include a bathroom house.  

Visiting outside of summer months is most recommended as the Mojave Desert can heat up to 120 degrees fahrenheit during this time of year.  

A huge plus is that the natural preserve accepts the Annual National Parks Pass . Without the pass, entrance is $30 per vehicle. 

Recommended by Alyssa of An Apple a Plane

5. Zion National Park (a favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

view of canyon red rock walls green base

Distance from Las Vegas: 159 miles / 2 hours, 41 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is visiting Zion National Park in Utah. Just over 2.5 hours from Vegas, Zion offers incredible views and adventures you’ll love.

The perfect Zion itinerary for one day is to take the shuttle into the Zion Scenic Drive to see the impressive canyon. If you’re up for adventure, hike The Narrows.

The Narrows is the popular hike where the canyon narrows and you can walk through the Virgin River (up to 10 miles round trip) to see the massive canyon up close as it closes in. Be sure to bring water shoes and hiking sticks for The Narrows.

Alternatively, you could get crazy awesome views on the Canyon Overlook Trail . It’s just one mile round trip, offering wide open views of the canyon with less effort.

Grab lunch or ice cream at the Zion Lodge or in Springdale, just outside the park. Or, pack a picnic and enjoy the views of the canyon! Regardless of if you’re solo, as a couple, with friends or visiting Zion with kids , it’s a fabulous adventure and perfect day trip from Las Vegas.

Just be sure to take the right hiking essentials when visiting in Zion, like good hiking shoes and plenty of water!

Note: if you’re based in or near Vegas and have or rent an RV, check out this RV road trip guide that details the road trip from Vegas to Zion then the Grand Canyon. What a fun adventure!

6. Hoover Dam

hoover dam tour from Las Vegas view of large concrete dam with rocky mountains and river

Distance from Las Vegas: 37 miles / 39 minutes

Hoover Dam from Las Vegas is a short drive, and one of the best ways to spend a day away from the city. You can rent a car and drive yourself or take a tour from Vegas . See the historic Hoover Dam, which was completed in 1936.

As a visitor to the Hoover Dam, you can park for free and walk to the viewpoint on both the Nevada and Arizona Sides. The Nevada side you can see the front of the dam. On the Arizona side, you’ll see the Colorado River and the back side of the dam.

The visitor center has information on the history and architecture of the dam. If you rent a car and drive yourself, the parking lot closest to the entrance is $10 to park, or you can walk the 0.7 miles from the free parking to get there.

One of the best ways to learn about the dam’s construction is through a Power Plant Tour. You’ll actually get to go down into the dam to see how it works!

At the time of publication, you can purchase a Guided Power Plant Tour online but not a Guided Dam Tour so if you want the most in-depth tour of the dam, you’ll need to get there early to get a tour, because it’s first come, first serve and sells out quickly.

Book it now: Hoover Dam tour from Vegas

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

7. Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter

places to visit near Las Vegas view of Grand Canyon and river flowing through it

Distance from Las Vegas: 45 minutes (flight time)

Enjoy the beauty of the Grand Canyon without all the driving! Grand Canyon tours from Las Vegas are a very efficient way to see the 4th most visited national park in the USA !

While driving to the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas (see #14 below) allows you to hike and see the South Rim, a helicopter tour allows you to land inside the canyon, thousands of feet below the rim.

After a 45-minute helicopter ride from Las Vegas , feel extra bougie as you toast champagne on a bluff from within the canyon. Soak in the incredible views of the massive canyon you’re standing inside of! What a bucket list experience!

Book it now: helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon from Vegas

More things do do near Las Vegas

Outside of the city but comfortable enough to do in a day, here are more ideas for ya. There’s so much to see in the area!

8. Emerald Cave kayaking (one of the most fun things to do outside of Vegas)

lake mead day trips Las Vegas view of cave with green water and kayakers

Distance from Las Vegas: 55 miles / 58 minutes

Kayaking in the Emerald Cave is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the Vegas strip. The cave is located in the Lake Mead Recreation Area, along a calm section of the Colorado River.

Your journey to the caves will include a relaxing kayak ride along the Colorado River. The surrounding hills and cliff walls are awe-inspiring as they tower above you. 

Along the way, you can also go ashore and take a number of short hikes for a better view of the river and rock walls. These hikes will also give you a chance to see the unique flora and fauna of the area. 

The Emerald Cave itself will often get crowded, and only a few kayaks can enter at a time. The cave is shallow, giving you a chance to enter, take pictures, and then exit again within a few minutes time. 

Within the cave, you’ll see a green glowing light reflecting off of the water and onto the cave walls. This green glow is where the Emerald Cave gets its name. The best time of year to see the full emerald effect is to go in summer on a sunny day. 

To reach the caves, you can drive to Lake Mead Recreation Area and rent a kayak there, or book a half-day tour , which includes hotel pickup and drop-off services from Las Vegas. For your trip, it helps to bring the right gear , including a good backpack and water shoes . 

The tour will provide you with guidance and instruction along the way, so it’s a great option if you’re newer to kayaking or unfamiliar with the area. 

Kayaking the Emerald Cave is one of the best Lake Mead Day Trips from Las Vegas!

Book it now: Emerald Cave kayaking

Recommended by Merry of Virginia Vacation Guide

9. Mojave National Preserve

vegas day trips view of road through scenic drive tan and brown rocky scene

Distance from Las Vegas: 68 miles / 1 hour, 9 minutes

If you’re looking for a way to get away from Las Vegas but want somewhere with few crowds, then consider making a visit to Mojave National Preserve. In just an hour’s drive on Interstate 15 from the big city, you’ll find hiking trails, caves, and much more to explore.

First, head to Cima Road, which is home to more Joshua Trees than you’ll even be able to find within the namesake national park. These are rare trees, only growing within certain parts of the southwest.

Another one of the best things to do is to visit the Kelso Dunes. These beautiful sand dunes offer viewpoints of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to stand on top of the tallest dune.

The Lava Tubes Trail offers a short hike and a unique experience in a cave. There aren’t many places where you’re able to climb directly into the tube, so this one shouldn’t be missed!

Other fun activities include seeing the cinder cones along Aiken Mine Road, hiking the Teutonia Peak Trail, and visiting the Mojave Desert Mailbox. Because you’ll be in the desert, be sure to dress comfortably to stay cool while you’re out exploring.

It’s also nice to have a high-clearance vehicle for the visit, as some roads can be pretty rough. Also, be sure to check the status of the roads, because wintertime may bring snow and poor weather conditions.

Recommended by Kassidy of The Hiking Helper

10. UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains

things to do outside of vegas view of utv in desert on sunny day

Distance from Las Vegas: 25 miles / 49 minutes

Get ready for an epic adventure in Prime Valley and Hidden Valley at the McCullough Mountain Range, Nevada . This is one of the most fun day trips from Las Vegas if you’e looking for an adrenaline-filled time!

This half day UTV excursion takes you through fun, rugged desert terrain just outside of Las Vegas. You’ll get to see Hidden Valley National Monument during your excursion.

An excursion like this was one of the most fun things to do in Aruba , and I think you’ll agree it’s an awesome day trip from Vegas , too. Drivers must be 16 or older, and each UTV is fit for 2 people. Kids as young as 12 can ride with an adult, so it’s great for families with older kids, too.

Pro tip: wear clothes you can get dirty and closed toes shoes.

Pack anything you don’t want to get dirty in a dry bag with a strap and tie it down. That prevents dirt from penetrating a backpack for other cloth bag. This is the dry bag I used while UTVing and it worked great! Don’t forget to take extra water in reusable water bottles , too.

Book it now: UTV adventure near Vegas

11. Death Valley National Park (one of the best places to visit near Las Vegas for scenery)

things to do near Las Vegas Death Valley deep brown rocky ridges at sunset

Distance from Las Vegas: 110 miles / 1 hour, 55 minutes

Death Valley is one of the best national parks in California and a perfect day trips from Las Vegas if you are looking to escape the crowds and explore the stunning landscapes of the Mojave Desert. 

Although summers bring triple-digit temperatures to Death Valley, winter has a mild sunny weather with no snow, except for high altitudes. 

You can get to Death Valley by taking a guided tour from Las Vegas that includes major highlights of the national park or renting a car in Las Vegas . If you rent a car, you will have more freedom exploring this vast area and also enjoy stargazing at night since Death Valley boasts incredible dark skies free of light pollution.

The park has many hikes like Golden Canyon, overlooks and is also home to the lowest point in North America, Bad Water Basin, that sits at 282 feet below sea level. Since Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states, prepare to drive longer distances, as some points of the interest are as far as 50 minutes away from one another.

Book it now: Death Valley tours from Las Vegas

Recommended by Daria of The Discovery Nut

12. Spring Mountain Ranch State Park

Spring Mountain State Park view of mountains with trees and ranch in foreground

Distance from Las Vegas: 24 miles / 27 minutes

Some of the oldest buildings in Nevada lie right next to Red Rock Canyon National Conservation area at the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park. This historic ranch is a fun little day trip from Las Vegas , where you can tour old buildings like a blacksmith shop and sandstone cabin.

Nestled in a picturesque setting, it’s a lesser-known attraction in the Las Vegas area , so you’ll really be able to escape the crowds. Pack a picnic and enjoy the outdoors. The best time to visit this state park is October through May.

The Spring Mountain Ranch State Park is a great spot for beginner hikers or families and pets, too. Hike the Spring Mountain Ranch Loop trial, at just 1.5 miles and flat, it’s an easy trail for nearly any skill level.

Hours change seasonally so check before you go at the Spring Mountain Ranch website .

13. Seven Magic Mountains

large stacked multicolored painted rocks

Distance from Las Vegas: 26 miles / 27 minutes

A fun experience close to Las Vegas is the Seven Magic Mountains . These colorful stacked boulders are an art instillation that took social media by storm in 2016, thousands of visitors come to the Seven Magic Mountains annually.

It’s a free, short day trip from Las Vegas, and one worth visiting if you’re looking for something low-key to do in the area. And bonus – no extra hiking gear or picnic supplies required.😊 It’s perfect for when you’re visiting Las Vegas with kids !

Created by artist Ugo Rondinone and supported by the Nevada Museum of Art  and  Art Production Fund , this is a free attraction although donations are always welcome! Take as many photos as you desire, but please don’t damage the boulders.

Pro tip: If you want great photos with fewer people, come early in the day – just after sunrise – to avoid crowds.

Seven Magic Mountains is one of the best things to do outside of Vegas that doesn’t take a lot of time, either.

Full day trips from Las Vegas

With 3+ hours of driving each way, these are the best day trips from Las Vegas that make a long day, but totally worth the effort! Of course if you have more time, these destinations would make great weekend trips from Las Vegas, too.

14. South Rim of the Grand Canyon from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 279 miles / 4 hours, 22 minutes

If you’re looking to escape the intenseness of Las Vegas for a day and want to spend some time surrounded by incredible scenery you’ll never forget, head to  the Grand Canyon South Rim .

The Grand Canyon is one of the most extraordinary natural wonders of the world and offers absolutely stunning views. The South Rim in particular is considered to be the best part with its really expansive views and is truly a sight to see.

There are many unique hikes and viewpoints such as Mather Point that you can visit at The South Rim – but note that the weather and temperature can change suddenly here so make sure to bring plenty of layers and be prepared for any weather. Woolx Merino wool layers work perfect for any season and are perfect for the Grand Canyon.

Drive time to Grand Canyon South Rim is just over 4 hours each way from Las Vegas so it’s a long day but it is definitely worth it! You can rent a car and drive yourself, or if you’d prefer someone else to do the driving you can book a Grand Canyon tour from Las Vegas on a bus.

The day trips are usually around 15 hours long, starting at around 6 or 7am, and cost under $100 so good value for money! It’s best to book a Grand Canyon tour in advance as it is a popular day trip from Vegas!

Not only is The Grand Canyon one of the best day trips from Las Vegas, but the route to get there is really interesting too as you’ll get to drive along the famous Route 66!

Book it now: Grand Canyon bus tour from Vegas

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

15. Horseshoe Bend from Las Vegas

horseshoe bend tour from Las Vegas view of river in shape of u and rocky cliffs

Distance from Las Vegas: 274 miles / 4 hours, 23 minutes

Horseshoe Bend is one of the most photographed sites along the Colorado River and a fantastic excursion for those traveling from Las Vegas.

While on the far end for a day trip, Horseshoe Bend is about 4.5 hours from Las Vegas. Located in Page Arizona, the iconic feature is a must-do for those traveling through the southwest. 

Horseshoe Bend, part of the Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is one  top things to do in Page Arizona .  It can be done as a stop along with other activities in the area.

The trail and parking for Horseshoe Bend is managed by the city of Page, and doesn’t take any National Park or other park passes for entrance to the site. Parking for Horseshoe Bend is $10 and the site is open from sunrise to sunset daily.

For those visiting the site, the hike requires about 1.5 miles (out and back) to reach the viewpoint for the bend. There’s a small platform located at the end of the trail.

However, be sure to continue on past the viewpoint along the slick stones and you’ll be treated to some great other views of the bend without as many tourists around. You can even climb the small hill to get a better overlook of the site. 

Beyond Horseshoe Bend, there’s plenty of other things around Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Visit to the nearby Glen Canyon Bridge and Dam is worth a quick excursion. Visitors can view the amazing engineering feats of creating both the bridge and dam in this part of the river.

There’s also great hiking nearby such as the Hanging Gardens Hike, the Chains, and The “New Wave” which is a lovely banded sandstone area close to the glen canyon dam. 

Recommended by Anwar of Beyond My Door

16. Bryce Canyon National Park (one of the most epic day trips from Las Vegas)

weekend getaway from Las Vegas view of orange rocky spires at Bryce Canyon National Park

Distance from Las Vegas: 259 miles / 4 hours, 3 minutes

You’ll want to get up early for this one! As a day trip, this is doable but a pretty long day. It would make a great weekend trip from Las Vegas, too.

Anyway, Bryce Canyon National Park is home to the famous hoodoos, which are irregularly shaped rock spires. Witness the unique beauty of this landscape from Bryce Point or Inspiration Point.

If you’re up for hiking, try the Queens Garden Trail and Navajo Loop , which is a fun, interactive trail. It’s 3.1 miles and rated as moderate, you’ll weave through hoodoos and witness the bright orange and red rocks up close.

Have a picnic at Sunset Point or enjoy the views at Sunrise Point, too. You can see all the Bryce Canyon National Park highlights in just one day!

17. Joshua Tree National Park

weekend getaway from Las Vegas view of Joshua tree with desert landscape smooth rocks sunny day

Distance from Las Vegas: 186 miles / 3 hours, 8 minutes

One of the best day trips from Las Vegas is a day in Joshua Tree . It takes about 3 hours to drive from Las Vegas to Joshua Tree National Park, but it is worth the drive and a great way to escape the city.

Joshua Tree is best during the spring or fall when temperatures are more moderate. In the summer, the park gets very hot, and in the winter it’s cold. However, if you’re taking a day trip in the winter, you will still experience the warmest part of the day in winter.

While in Joshua Tree, take the quick hike to Arch Rock, drive down Queen Valley Road, visit the Cholla Cactus Garden, and, of course, see all the Joshua Trees. One of the best places to find a high concentration of Joshua Trees is along Queen Valley Road or on Park Boulevard from the West Entrance Station.

Recommended by Christine of Live Love Run Travel

18. Antelope Canyon (a popular tour from Las Vegas)

view of antelope canyon deep red and orange sandstone canyon walkway

Distance from Las Vegas: 278 miles / 4 hours, 32 minutes

Las Vegas is such a fun city to explore but many people don’t realize there are amazing places to visit outside of Las Vegas. Antelope Canyon is a popular slot canyon in Page, Arizona.

The canyon is full of beautiful Navajo Sandstone that makes for some of the most stunning views you’ll find. Getting to escape from the concrete jungle of Las Vegas is a great way to refresh and enjoy some time away from the city.

If you’re planning on visiting Antelope Canyon, there are a few things you must know.

The canyon is on Navajo land and is restricted to tours by Navajo tour guides and tours are required to visit. You’ll want to book in advance to ensure you can get a tour. If you find that Upper and Lower Antelope Canyon are booked, look into tours of Antelope Canyon X .

May to October get really busy, the earlier you book your tour , the better.

To do Antelope Canyon as a day trip from Las Vegas, follow I-15 North through Saint George, Utah. Then take UT-9 to Hwy 59 towards Kanab, UT, where you’ll get on the US-89 East to Lake Powell and Page, Arizona. The drive is a little long, but it makes for a great adventure to one of the most beautiful slot canyons you can find!

Book it now: Antelope Canyon tour from Las Vegas

Recommended by Candice of CS Ginger

19. Palm Springs

rocky canyon with mountains in distance at Tahquitz Canyon Palm Springs weekend trips from Las Vegas

Distance from Las Vegas: 231 miles / 4 hours, 9 minutes

If you’re up for a slightly longer drive, taking a day trip from Las Vegas to Palm Springs is an ideal way to add some fun and adventure to your travels. Though it’s situated about 4 hours away, there are so many ways to spend one day in Palm Springs !

You can explore the iconic downtown area, which features boutique shops, hip galleries, and tasty restaurants. Or, check out the original retro architecture on residential homes and hotels.

Outdoor lovers can venture out for a day hike at one of the many trails, such as Tahquitz Canyon. One can’t-miss activity for any first time visitor is the famous Palm Springs aerial tramway, which takes you up the nearby San Jacinto Mountains for panoramic views of the surrounding valley.

With so much natural beauty to explore, it’s no wonder why Palm Springs has become such a popular getaway spot for travelers from Las Vegas.

Be aware that summer is a tough time for hiking and strenuous activity in the California desert. If visiting in the summer months, I would recommend visiting one of the many pool and mineral springresorts. 

Recommended by Monica of This Rare Earth 

20. Red Rock Canyon State Park

day trips from Las Vegas view of red rock canyon state park orange and tan rocky landscape

Distance from Las Vegas: 240 miles / 3 hours, 41 minutes

Did you know there are actually 2 Red Rock Canyons to escape to as a day trip from Las Vegas?

Not to be confused with the National Conservation Area just a few minutes outside of Vegas,  Red Rock Canyon State Park  is a 3.5 hour drive from Las Vegas. While it’s a long drive for a day trip, it’s doable starting before sunrise and driving back at sunset.

Located in Cantil, California, Red Rock Canyon State Park is part of the Mojave Desert. Once you’re there, you’ll be surrounded by stunning Joshua Trees and get a breathtaking view of sandstone cliffs as far as the eye can see.

Enjoy activities such as rock climbing, picnicking, easy nature walks, as well as beginner canyoneering. Best of all, you won’t find huge crowds here, so enjoy the peaceful escape from the city.

Recommended by Cassie of Cassie’s Compass

21. Grand Staircase Escalante (another favorite on this list of day trips from Las Vegas)

zebra slot canyon striped wavy canyon

Distance from Las Vegas: 213 miles / 3 hours, 26 minutes

Grand Staircase Escalante is a fun and unique day trip from Las Vegas. If you’re looking to hike some really cool slot canyons, Grand Staircase is the place to do it.

A 3.5 hour drive from Vegas, there are a  few different slot canyons  located within Grand Staircase Escalante to visit. One of the most famous is Zebra Slot Canyon, a canyon that has stripes along the wall making it look like the stripes on a zebra!

Besides hiking the slot canyons in the area, there are plenty of other amazing trails to hike in this area. To get to Grand Staircase Escalante, head northeast on I-15 towards St. George, once in St. George depending on where you want to go in Grand Staircase either head towards Kanab or head towards Bryce Canyon.

The roads inside of Grand Staircase aren’t paved and a lot of the roads require you to have a 4×4 vehicle. Make sure to always check with the visitor centers nearby in Kanab and Escalante before heading out to make sure the weather and roads are safe for exploring.

Recommended by Jessica of Unearth the Voyage

22. Alabama Hills (one of the most scenic things to do near Las Vegas)

alabama hills with snow capped mountains and road

Distance from Las Vegas: 246 miles / 4 hours, 13 minutes

Alabama Hills, California is an underrated destination that’s gained in popularity over the last decade or so. A long day trip from Las Vegas, it can be done in a single day with an early morning and late night, or better yet, as a weekend getaway from Las Vegas!

With expansive views of these smooth rocky formations, there’s quite a bit to see and do in Alabama Hills. Movie Road is aptly named based on the volume of films that have been shot here. Drive down it and recognize scenes from Iron Man and Gladiator, just to name a few.

There’s plenty of hiking opportunities in Alabama Hills , too. Grab your hiking shoes and head to the famous Mobius Arch, coming in at less than one mile. Or explore views of the snow-capped mountains on the Upper Alabama Hills Trail to Cyclops Skull Arch .

Best day trips from Las Vegas

things to do outside of vegas car driving down winding road with mountains in distance

Well, that’s a wrap! The area surrounding Las Vegas is full of fun and activities for all ages. Whether you’ve got just one day trip from Vegas or have a few days to explore the area, you’ll find something amazing to do with your time!

Let’s take a look at those adventures again, in a quick list…

Places to visit near Las Vegas

  • Red Rock Canyon
  • Valley of Fire State Park
  • Kanarra Falls
  • Zion National Park
  • Grand Canyon from Las Vegas via helicopter
  • Emerald Cave kayaking
  • Mojave National Preserve
  • UTV adventure at the McCullough Mountains
  • Death Valley National Park
  • Spring Mountain Ranch State Park
  • Seven Magic Mountains
  • South Rim of the Grand Canyon
  • Horseshoe Bend
  • Bryce Canyon National Park
  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Antelope Canyon
  • Palm Springs
  • Red Rock Canyon State Park
  • Grand Staircase Escalante
  • Alabama Hills

Related content you might like: 20 BIG Adventure Vacations in the US Not to Miss 28 Absolutely Best National Parks to Visit in Summer 100 Most Romantic Vacations in the United States You’ll Love

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22 incredible day. trips from Las Vegas with photos of canyons Zion Grand Canyon grand staircase Escalante

wanderwithbelle

Sunday 29th of January 2023

I love Vegas and have been there a numerous of times!! Thanks for sharing these great tips.

Wednesday 1st of February 2023

Welcome Belle. Thanks for your comment and visiting the blog! :)

Monday 23rd of January 2023

Vegas itself isn't really on my list of places to visit, but I'd love to do all of these daytrips!

Tuesday 24th of January 2023

Agreed! Every time I go to Vegas, I leave Vegas 🤣

Saturday 17th of December 2022

I am not a big fan of Las Vegas so I love the idea of trying some of these road trips on the next time I attend a conference in Nevada. I love the rugged landscape.

Monday 19th of December 2022

Same, same Terri! Each time I visit Vegas I have to get out 🤣 Have fun on your next non-Vegas adventure!

Interesting read. Emerald cave kayaking looks so relaxing.

Totally agree, Anukrati! I hope you get to try it sometime.

Friday 16th of December 2022

Some great ideas here, and some wonderful photos too!

Glad you found this helpful :)

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Solvang

The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Experience everything that SoCal has to offer with these day trip from Los Angeles to stunning nearby beaches, wineries and small towns

Michael Juliano

L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. If you only have one day to spare, consider one of these quick day trips from Los Angeles to some amazing nearby destinations. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often  scenic drive  to SoCal’s best beaches , small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. Oddly enough, taking advantage of the ease with which you can get  out of L.A. is easily one of the best things to do  in L.A.

From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and  vintage hunting in Palm Springs to  camping  in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip (as opposed to a longer road trip ) worth taking on this list. 

RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from L.A.

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Top day trips from Los Angeles

Coronado

1.  Coronado

2 hrs by car There’s a reason Coronado has topped lists of the country’s best beaches: Its wide shores never feel overcrowded, the soft, fine-grained sand is easily walkable and the weather is practically perfect. Just a quick ferry ride or bridge drive from San Diego, this wealthy peninsula has the feel of a resort town with the amenities that come from being near a major city.

The beachfront grounds of the regal, red-roofed Hotel del Coronado  are a must-visit, even if you can’t foot its pricey room reservations. Back in town, stop into hole-in-the-wall diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop for a quick meal or MooTime Creamery for frozen treats. Coronado is also home to a sizable naval base, and while you can’t exactly visit, you can spot fighter jets coming in for landings and submarines surfacing off the coast.  —Michael Juliano

Ojai

2.  Ojai

1 hr 20 mins by car Ojai is a not-so-hidden gem close enough to L.A. for a day trip, but with a unique, relaxed feel that’s worlds away from busy city life. Start early with a decadent, hearty breakfast at Bonnie Lu’s , then stroll the town’s quaint main street; the antique shopping is great here, but relatively new school shops like Summer Camp are also worth a stop.

Tour an olive farm or a citrus grove, then grab an organic lunch at Farmer & the Cook . Alternatively, grab a a bite to go and explore the nearby trails in Los Padres National Forest , just north of town. If the weather is right, swimming holes abound along the Sespe Creek.

Back in civilization, check out Bart’s Books , an outdoor bookstore housed in an actual house (sans roof), or head up to Meditation Mount   (reservations required)  for incredible views, especially the famed “pink moment” at sunset.

Swing back to the center of town to explore its many wine tasting rooms, or grab a beer and a bite at Ojai Beverage Company . Chief’s Peak, the bar at Ojai Rancho Inn (where you should stay if your trip runs long), is a hip spot for an after-dinner drink; you’ll find more old-timers—and regular live music—at Deer Lodge down the road.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

Santa Barbara

3.  Santa Barbara

1 hr 50 mins by car Santa Barbara is a scenic and worthy vacation destination regardless of your starting point, but we’re fortunate enough to have relatively easy access (granted that the L.A. traffic gods are working in our favor).

Stearns Wharf is a go-to spot to see the Pacific, and nearby is State Street, filled with tons of shops and people-watching opportunities. And the Wharf isn’t the only place to see the water: Butterfly Beach, a relatively private spot, is situated next to the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel and faces west for ideal sunset-watching views.

Grab lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria —famous for being one of Julia Child’s favorite eateries. The lines tend to be on the ridiculous side, but it’s worth the wait for novelty’s sake alone.

If you’re traveling with family, spend a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo   (reservations required) . Otherwise, grab a glass of Pinot Noir at one of the many tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail   (hours and status vary by winery) ; the spots are located in downtown Santa Barbara, steps from the Amtrak station, and source grapes from local vineyards.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

Laguna Beach

4.  Laguna Beach

1 hr by car Forget what you know from a certain unfortunate MTV reality show: Laguna Beach is an easygoing oceanfront city graced with lush vegetation, tidepools and a picturesque rocky coastline.

Main Beach is the spot of choice for downtown sunbathing, but you’ll find pristine, less crowded beaches at tide pool-filled Treasure Island, camper-friendly Crystal Cove or hidden Victoria Beach with its weathered, castle-like turret.

Walk the city’s downtown area to find a mix of shops, galleries and restaurants; many eateries cater to the well heeled, so we suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on a bench at the hilltop Heisler Park. Do, however, follow the smell of fresh waffle cones onto the enchanting Peppertree Lane for a scoop from Gelato Paradiso .

It’s not just about the beach here; you can explore the reservation-only Hortense Miller Garden  or thousands of acres of hillsides and canyons to find hiking trails, nature centers and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center   (closed through fall 2024) , a sea lion rescue. Summertime typically sees the arrival of two festival favorites: Pageant of the Masters , a live stage interpretation of classical paintings, and Sawdust Art Festival , an open-air artisan market that transforms into a Christmas village in late fall. There’s only one road in and out from the 5, so bring some patience during rush hour—alternatively, take the scenic route and follow Coast Highway through Newport Beach.  —Michael Juliano

Solvang

5.  Solvang

2 hrs by car After Danish immigrants grew tired of Midwestern winters, they began to make their way west and eventually settled in the pastoral Santa Ynez Valley. Though you won’t find many Danes in Solvang anymore, you will find wooden windmills, rural houses and a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower. The post-WWII structures are as touristy as they are charming; walk around town to find an assortment of Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen and Little Mermaid keepsakes, and sort-of-Danish bakeries.

Solvang’s downtown area is dotted with breweries and pancake cottages, including local standbys Solvang Brewing Company   and Paula’s Pancake House —and an increasingly impressive new culinary scene . For a bit of history on the area, make sure to stop by the humble Elverhøj Museum .

For a more offbeat adventure, head to the outskirts of town to  OstrichLand , which feels like the Jurassic Park of the ostrich and emu world. If you’re visiting in early January, make sure to schedule your trip around the annual Christmas tree bonfire . —Michael Juliano

Balboa Island

6.  Balboa Island

1 hr by car, 5 min ferry

Visitors to Balboa Island in Newport Beach can enter the man-made island by driving onto it via Marine Avenue, but it’s far easier—and more fun—to park your car on the Balboa Peninsula and take the Balboa Island Ferry for a quick and scenic five-minute trip across the water.

The first order of business: getting your hands on one of the island’s famed frozen bananas (make the Bluth family proud). Choose from rivals Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop; both claim to be the originators of the chocolate-covered frozen treat.

Take a jaunt around the 1.6-mile boardwalk surrounding the island, passing by multi-million dollar homes and streets named after gems, before strolling down Marine Avenue, the island’s main artery. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants ( Wilma’s Patio is a staple), boutique shops, art galleries and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society .

Of course, there’s plenty to do out on the water, too: kayaking, parasailing, paddle boarding and the like. If you’ve got kiddos tagging along, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula hosts a Ferris wheel and plenty of arcade games.  —Erin Kuschner

Discover the best things to do in Newport Beach

Los Alamos

7.  Los Alamos

2 hrs 20 mins by car Once a major stagecoach stop, this small, easy-to-miss town looks stuck in the past with its Old West style—but behind the facade are trendy treasures waiting to be discovered. Inside Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is a hip, stylish setup serving artisan breads—including gluten free options—croissants, sandwiches and more. Exploring antique shops and art galleries can easily fill a day here, just be sure to call ahead, as some places are only open on weekends.

A big draw of the Los Alamos area is its wine tasting—this is Santa Barbara County, after all—which can be done at Bedford Winery  and other local tasting rooms. Before you leave town, make a pit stop at  1880 Union , an event space with an authentic stagecoach saloon, or spend the night at the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast . For being a single stoplight town (we haven’t actually counted, but you get it), there’s a bevy of delicious places to eat, such as  Full of Life Flatbread (known for its occasional A-list diners) and the destination-worthy Bell’s .  —Stephanie Morino

San Juan Capistrano

8.  San Juan Capistrano

1 hr 30 min by car, 1 hr 25 min by train A piece of California history and a quaint old town make San Juan Capistrano an off-the-beaten-path day trip with a lot of charm and a little learning. If you take Amtrak there, the train will drop you off right where you want to be—just a couple of blocks from a good cup of coffee at Hidden House Coffee .

From there, you can tour Mission San Juan Capistrano , founded in 1776 and arguably one of the mission chain’s prettiest links. The mission used to be known as a migratory destination for swallows in February, but the famous birds have been spotty in recent years. If you have your heart set on getting up close with some animals, check out Zoomars   (reservations recommended) , a petting zoo for kids of all ages (read: adults love it, too). It’s a historic ranch where you can also pan for gold like the California miners did. You’re also near Los Rios Historic District , which has some historic homes and museums that are perfect for a walking tour.

When you get hungry, you have several options: Heritage Barbecue serves remarkable Texas-style smoked meats,  Ramos House is a romantic spot known for great food and huge Bloody Marys on the weekends and  Five Vines is a nearby wine bar with snacks and sandwiches. If you want to catch a later train, head over to Swallow’s Inn , the local dive bar, where bras hang from the ceiling and bands play late into the night. You’re still within stumbling distance of the train station.  —Sara Fay

Oak Glen

9.  Oak Glen

1 hr 30 mins by car

Though you can visit Oak Glen year-round, the best time to head to this picturesque town to the east is September through November. The five-mile loop of orchards, ranches, shops and restaurants is a necessity for any New England transplant looking for fall foliage, and the town’s most popular activity— apple picking —is a nice alternative to canvassing L.A.’s farmers’ markets.

Many of the orchards, like Willowbrook Apple Farm  (opens Labor Day weekend), offer a cider press to make your own cider, which you can pair with a cinnamon roll or apple dumpling from Apple Annie’s Restaurant & Bakery . Stop by the Turquoise Pueblo  on your way back to L.A. for some beautiful handmade Native American jewelry.  —Erin Kuschner

Solana Beach

10.  Solana Beach

2 hrs by car, or 2 hrs by train

If you want to spend a day in San Diego, you can either try to go big (the San Diego Zoo! Balboa Park!  Padres game! All in one day!) or go small-town and spend a chill day in a cool oceanfront neighborhood. The beach towns north of San Diego—no, we’re not talking about Pacific Beach—are the stuff of the Beach Boys lyrics.

In Solana Beach, you’ll find laid-back vibes and beaches that aren’t completely overrun. It’s easy to get there from L.A. via Amtrak, and it’s a perfect way to day-trip because all the spots you’ll want to hit are within walking distance of the station.

Start at  the Naked Cafe for a beach-y brunch, then, either head down to the beach at Fletcher Cove or cruise along the Cedros Design District for window shopping, brewery hopping and people watching. There’s also a mix of cute boutiques, surf shops, restaurants, taco spots and bars along South Coast Highway. If it’s racing season, the Del Mar Racetrack  isn’t far—it would be either a long walk or a short car ride.

Before you catch the train back up to L.A., you have several good options for dinner near the tracks: Station Sushi is a solid locals’ spot for classic and creative rolls, Bangkok Bay  has some of the best Thai food we’ve ever eaten and Pizza Port is known for being a last-slice-and-beer-before-Amtrak place. It’s directly across a pedestrian crosswalk from the train station, and has been slinging pies and pouring pints for three decades.  —Sara Fay

If the San Diego Zoo caught your eye, book a ticket and spend a day with the animals.

Temecula

11.  Temecula

When hoofing it to Napa and Sonoma isn’t an option, Temecula is your next best destination for a day of wine tasting. Before sampling the grapes, stop by quaint Old Town Temecula, where you can pay a visit to the Temecula Valley Museum  for a historical walking tour.

Then it’s down to business; the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country includes more than 30 wineries, which you can bounce between at your own leisure (don’t drink and drive, folks!) or take a guided tour from one of the many wine tour companies in the area. Taste your way through the 70-acre Wilson Creek Winery and the red-focused Monte De Oro Winery   before heading to Maurice Car’rie Vineyard  for an educated tasting and a loaf of the vineyard’s famous sourdough bread, oozing with brie.

Just down the road, Magical Adventure Balloon Rides encapsulates another popular Temecula activity: riding in a hot air balloon. We can’t think of a better way to end your day in Temecula than by sailing over the town’s vineyards at sunset with a glass of Champagne in hand. —Erin Kuschner

Palm Springs

12.  Palm Springs

2 hrs by car Known for its ultra-fancy resorts and legacy of celebrity residents, Palm Springs is worth at least a weekend, if you can afford the time. Still, if you’re limited to 24 hours, make the desert city a choose-your-own-adventure day trip.

Start with brunch at Cheeky’s , and trust us that it’s worth the wait. If you’re in the mood to exercise, check out Indian Canyons , made up of three separate canyons (Palm, Murray and Andreas) that each offer hiking trails and fantastic views of the diverse landscape. Another of the best ways to see Palm Springs is on the Aerial Tramway , which helps visitors escape the heat of the desert with a scenic ride to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains.

If relaxation is your goal, shop at the outlets in Cabazon, or just get a massage and sit by the pool. The Palm Springs Art Museum  is small but displays works from incredible artists including Picasso and Warhol. For dinner, try reservations at Sandfish  for superb sushi and Japanese whiskey.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

Big Bear

13.  Big Bear

2 hrs by car; access may be limited during the winter This mountain town is home to some of L.A.’s closest ski slopes in winter, but don’t discount a summertime trip, when a dip in a mountain lake is the best way to keep cool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to tour the water, and keep an eye out for the white-domed Big Bear Solar Observatory perched at the water’s edge on the north shore. The hiking here is also plentiful and offers some amazing views.

If you’re a bit more adventurous, stop by Bear Valley Bikes and rent a mountain bike; there are fire roads for beginners and lots of technical, downhill single track for more seasoned riders.

Back in town, check out the Bowling Barn  and the Alpine Slide , both of which are a blast with or without kids in tow. For a drink with the locals, head to karaoke night (which is pretty much every night) at Murray’s Saloon , the town’s self-proclaimed “five star hole in the wall.”  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

Joshua Tree

14.  Joshua Tree

2 hrs 15 mins by car You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park on our shortlist for perfect day trips, road trips and weekend getaways from L.A. That’s for good reason: the magical desert spot—with its gnarled, ancient namesake trees, picturesque cacti and giant boulders—should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter how much time they have to spare.

Watch rock climbers scale mini-mountains at  Hidden Valley campground (first-come, first-served) or try some scrambling yourself at Jumbo Rocks . If you visit in spring, head south to Pinto Basin for a chance to see colorful wildflowers in bloom.

On the drive out, plan for a pit stop at the Cabazon exit, where you can explore the famed dinosaur park from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (and even, for a fee, climb inside the three-story T. Rex for a photo op in his mouth). Shop for cacti at multiple roadside marts on Twentynine Palms Highway, or hang a left at Pioneertown Road for a stop at Pappy & Harriet’s , which boasts a ghost town, small inn and great live music.

Another worthwhile detour is Landers, home of countless alien sightings and new-age sound baths at the  Integratron   (reservations required) . In the town of Joshua Tree, take your pick from a few tasty restaurants, including Crossroads Cafe   to rub elbows with locals. There are some good thrift shops around here, as well as the kind of quirky public art; be sure to check out the World Famous Crochet Museum , as well as prolific artist Andrea Zittel’s A-Z West tour.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

Salton Sea and Slab City

15.  Salton Sea and Slab City

3 hrs by car This day trip isn’t for everyone; but if you’re a fan of things decrepit, forgotten and way off the beaten path, head south to Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. A popular vacation spot in the ’50s and ’60s, these days all that’s left of the once-booming seaside town are photo-worthy ruins and a lot of dead fish.

The Ski Inn remains; stop by for a drink or a greasy bite and decorate a dollar bill to hang on the wall or ceiling. Continue on to Niland, made famous by artist Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain , a giant folk art monument made from adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of paint (you may remember it from Into the Wild ). Beyond is Slab City, a former marine training base that now exists as a squat for campers, transients and desert dwellers who’ve created a community complete with a library, skate park and live music stage, “the Range.” If you’re respectful and friendly, folks may share their hot spring and swimming hole secrets, so bring a bathing suit—or do as the locals do and go in your birthday suit.  —Kate Wertheimer

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31 Things to Do for the Big Eclipse This April

On April 8, the moon will blot out the sun along a roughly 4,200-mile-long, 115-mile-wide path across North America. Where will you watch it? Here are some ideas.

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A young boy lying on the grass, with black-framed eclipse glasses on, wears a blue jumpsuit with NASA patches on it. He is pressing the glasses to his face with both hands.

By Danielle Dowling

Danielle Dowling, a Times editor with degrees in physics and science education, also reported on last October’s annular eclipse from Texas.

Wherever you go to catch the total solar eclipse on April 8, those three or four minutes of daytime darkness — no matter how spectacular — might not be enough.

You may want to build it out to a weekend’s worth of activities while staying somewhere fun or indulging in some self-care. Or maybe you would prefer to pair this bucket list event with another. After all, it will be about 21 years before another total solar eclipse of this magnitude returns to the contiguous United States.

With the path of totality starting on the Pacific coast of Mexico, heading northeast through 13 U.S. states and ending in Newfoundland, Canada, there are an overwhelming number of eclipse-oriented events to choose from, with something to satisfy just about any desire. Here are 31 options.

Hang out with NASA

Space nerds, kids at heart and actual children may appreciate a little guidance from NASA scientists, who will spread out across numerous celebrations along the eclipse’s path — at free or reasonably priced events in places like Mazatlán, Mexico; Austin, Dallas, Kerrville, Stonewall and Waco, Texas; Carbondale, Ill.; Cleveland; and Niagara Falls, N.Y. NASA has also teamed up with Purdue University and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway for a day of track tours and STEM symposiums ($20) at the racetrack.

Get hitched

Among astrologers, a solar eclipse represents a new beginning, so it offers a rather auspicious backdrop for nuptials. At Total Eclipse of the Heart in Russellville, Ark. (April 6 to 8), you can come for the weekend of hot air balloons, barbecue and ax throwing, and stay for the mass wedding ceremony, which will be held minutes before the eclipse. Tickets are $100 for each day’s festivities (there’s no extra fee to get married); aspiring newlyweds must register for the ceremony at totaleclipserussellville.com/elope . At the Texclipse Music Festival in Junction, Texas (April 6 to 8), you can exchange vows en masse during the eclipse, as well as treat yourself to local entertainment and a chili cook-off. A weekend pass is $135, and the marriage fee is $100, which includes 10 photographs from the ceremony. For each festival, you will still need to apply for a marriage license beforehand (you’ll probably want to get on that as soon as possible).

Choose your soundtrack

Texas dominates the musical offerings with some big-name lineups. At the Texas Eclipse festival in Burnet (April 5 to 9), prepare to have your senses flooded. In addition to more than 100 acts, including Tiga , the Golden Dawn Arkestra and the Disco Biscuits , the festival will offer a dizzying array of entertainment, including an immersive experience by the arts collective Meow Wolf . A four-day general admission pass is $349, and accommodations range from car camping ($175) to a glamping tent ($1,750). In Waco, the Eclipse Over Texas festival will present free concerts, with Band of Horses on April 5 and Big Boi and Arrested Development on April 6. And over in Austin, at the Moody Amphitheater in Waterloo Park, Vampire Weekend will serenade the sun as it slips into shadow on April 8 (it’s also the frontman Ezra Koenig’s 40th birthday). The show is sold out, but resale tickets are available through platforms like StubHub and Ticketmaster .

Arkansas will also bring the noise. Fans of underground music may want to head to Hot Springs, where the Ecliptic Festival (April 5 to 8) will feature acts like Blonde Redhead , Sun Ra Arkestra , Mary Lattimore , Deerhoof and Quintron . A four-day pass is $385, and day passes start at $70. Glamping packages range from $1,350 to $1,650; if you bring your own tent, camping costs $85 a night, or $300 for the weekend. About 200 miles northeast, in Dyess, you can celebrate the Man in Black before the sky turns black at Johnny Cash’s boyhood home . The event’s full weekend primitive camping package ($400) will get you a 20-by-20-foot spot to park and car camp from April 5 to 9, as well as four tickets to the Arkansas Roots Music Festival, taking place there on April 6. It will also get you four tickets to the NASA Lunch and Learn event on April 7, and four pairs of Johnny Cash Boyhood Home eclipse glasses. Unfortunately, Dyess lies just outside the path of totality, so you’ll need to drive about an hour west to see the eclipse in its full glory.

With the bluegrass musician Ricky Skaggs as one of the top names on its lineup, the Solar Strings festival (April 5 to 8) will fill its 700-plus-acre site in the Missouri Ozarks with the sounds of guitars, banjos, fiddles and more. A four-day general admission pass that includes car camping is $145; glamping packages are also available.

Ride the rails or hit the slopes

A few spots are still available aboard the Solar Eclipse Limited , whose fully restored Pullman cars will leave Penn Station in New York on April 7, headed for Niagara Falls, N.Y. There, the train will serve as a mini-hotel, providing food and accommodations as you take in the celestial sights. If its more-than-$8,000 price tag is a little too rich, you can travel to the village of Arcade, in western New York, and take a trip on the vintage Arcade & Attica Railroad , which will leave at 2 p.m. on April 8 and make a stop to view the totality at 3:19 p.m. Tickets are $22 for adults, $19 for children. If you prefer zipping through the snow, Smugglers’ Notch in Vermont is holding a weekend-long celebration capped off by a Winter Eclipse Carnival from noon to 4 p.m. on April 8.

Make a run for the border

Since the eclipse will start in Mexico and wrap up in eastern Canada, you have the option to go in either direction. If you head south, you’ll most likely be blessed with great weather (the probability of cloud cover in most Mexican towns and cities along the path averages about 20 to 30 percent). Mazatlán is the safest bet. Hotel rooms are still available and there’s an expansive boardwalk where you and your fellow eclipse watchers can gather to view the totality, which will last 4 minutes 27 seconds there.

Up in Canada, the rainbows that hover above Niagara Falls will turn red, as shorter wavelengths of light, like blue and green, are scattered more easily during totality. Prime eclipse-viewing spots in the area include the SkyWheel , the butterfly conservatory and Queen Victoria Park , where the Niagara Symphony Orchestra will kick off a free rock concert as the eclipse reaches its peak. In Montreal, you’ll be able to pair skyline views with daytime darkness on an island in the St. Lawrence River. Parc Jean-Drapeau has teamed up with the Space for Life planetarium to offer an afternoon of education and entertainment before the sun has its moment, all at no charge. The only drawback is that Montreal is on the edge of the path of totality, which means it will be in darkness for just a little over two minutes. (On the plus side, you’ll be in Montreal .)

Entertain the kids

If you’re taking your children to see the eclipse, they will need distractions. What’s better than an indoor water park, like the one at the Great Wolf Lodge in Sandusky, Ohio? Near the centerline of the eclipse’s path, it’s well situated, and its viewing party will offer free wolf ears for the kids and moon pies for everyone. A family suite that includes unlimited access to the park averages nearly $330 a night. You can also find child-friendly activities if you’re willing to travel back in time. Kinmundy Log Cabin Village in Kinmundy, Ill., will open its grounds to visitors from April 6 to 8, and while you won’t be able to stay in one of its 19th-century log cabins, you can explore them, with some occupied by volunteers re-enacting pioneer life. There will be a bonfire each night, and food trucks will be on site on April 7 and 8. Camping and parking for all three days is $150. At the Genesee Country Village & Museum in Mumford, N.Y., the third-largest living museum in the United States, experience life as it was in New York State from the 1790s to 1900. From April 5 to 7, you can attend a magic-lantern show, write a poem with a celestial motif, and sample 19th-century eclipse-themed treats for $17. On the day of the eclipse, $250 will get you and a carload of friends into the viewing area; individual tickets start at $55.

Treat yourself

Add some aahs to your oohs with the Moon Shadow package at La Cantera Resort & Spa in San Antonio, which includes an opening-night reception, a complimentary bottle of bubbly and a viewing party, starting at $3,500 for a three-night stay for two. Or how about a 15-day cruise through the Panama Canal — with a chance to witness the eclipse at sea near Cabo San Lucas, Mexico? Interior rooms are still available for $1,199 on the Emerald Princess , departing from Los Angeles on April 5. Or perhaps you have always wanted to roll down the highway in a luxury R.V., which becomes an asset if the weather takes a turn for the worse and clearer skies lie just a few hours’ drive away. Spot2Nite.com offers packages starting at $625 a night that combine R.V. rentals with campground sites from Texas to Ohio.

Fly the darkened skies

The best thing about viewing an eclipse from an airplane? “You don’t have to worry about clouds because you’re high above them. And at 35,000 to 40,000 feet, you’re seeing the eclipse against a much clearer, transparent sky as opposed to being at ground level,” said Joseph Rao, an associate and guest lecturer at Hayden Planetarium and an avid eclipse chaser who has seen 13 totalities — five aboard an aircraft . Delta Air Lines has been advertising path-of-totality flights from Austin (sold out) and Dallas-Fort Worth to Detroit. Southwest Airlines (which is running a sweepstakes to win a seat) also offers scheduled flights along the path. The downsides of an air-clipse? “You’re experiencing the event in a sort of sterile environment,” Mr. Rao said. Also, the angle of the sun in the sky at the time of totality may not line up with the view from a typical airplane window, which could limit some passengers’ ability to see it unless the pilots bank or set a special course — as a few reportedly did during the 2017 total eclipse.

Know Before You Go

Mind the centerline: When picking the spot to view the eclipse, remember that the closer you are to the middle of the path, the longer the eclipse will last. As you plan your trip, consult an eclipse map for the prime spots.

Factor in traffic: In the United States, there are about 32 million people living along the eclipse’s path, and tons more will be heading toward it. Give yourself extra time.

Bring some cash: If you’re headed to a rural area, the hordes joining you there will most likely tax the infrastructure. If the internet goes down, your credit card will become just another piece of plastic, and your phone a shiny brick.

Have backup eye protection: Most festivals will be handing out free solar eclipse glasses, but if you lose them, you won’t be able to track the moon as it slides over the sun (during the brief few minutes of totality, you can safely look at it without protective eyewear , according to NASA). Check the American Astronomical Society’s list of trusted manufacturers and sellers, then place an order now. Like, right now.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

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Sandton in a Day: A Thrilling Itinerary of Fun and History

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February 7, 2024 · 1 min read

Sandton 1 Day Itinerary

Embark on a whirlwind adventure through Sandton with a one-day itinerary that promises non-stop fun and a touch of history. Start your day at the exhilarating Gold Reef City Theme Park, where you can spend the entire day on thrilling rides and attractions that will transport you back to the gold rush era. After a day of excitement, unwind at the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, a perfect spot to soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the hot springs for a couple of hours. Cap off your day with a visit to the Union Buildings, a significant historical site and museum that offers a glimpse into South Africa's past. This compact itinerary is designed to maximize your time in Sandton, ensuring you experience the best of entertainment and culture.

hotelStar

  • Day 1: Thrills and Heritage in Sandton

Gold Reef City Theme Park

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Kickstart your Sandton adventure at the exhilarating Gold Reef City Theme Park. As the first stop in your one-day itinerary, this playground promises a full day of fun with its variety of rides and attractions. Located at Northern Pkwy & Data Cres, Johannesburg, the theme park is a treasure trove of excitement, offering something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or family-friendly entertainment, Gold Reef City delivers an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of Johannesburg's rich gold-mining history.

Attraction Info

  • Northern Pkwy & Data Cres, Johannesburg, 2159, South Africa
  • Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day
  • Open on Thu-Sun,9:00am-5:00pm;Closed on Mon-Wed

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

The Griffin

Nelson Mandela Square

After the thrills of Gold Reef City, unwind at the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, a mere 2-hour visit that will immerse you in the warmth of South African culture. Situated at 5th St, Sandown, this bustling plaza is not only a tribute to the late, great Nelson Mandela but also a hub of activity with its hot springs and vibrant atmosphere. Take a leisurely stroll, snap a photo with the impressive Mandela statue, and enjoy the array of shopping and dining options that surround you.

  • 5th St, Sandown, Sandton, 2031, South Africa
  • Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour
  • Open on Mon-Sat,9:00am-10:00pm;Open on Sun,9:00am-6:00pm

The Bigmouth Sushi & Grill

Union Buildings

Conclude your day with a touch of history at the Union Buildings, an architectural masterpiece and the seat of South Africa's government. With just an hour to explore, you'll find yourself at Government Ave, Pretoria, marveling at the grandeur of the buildings and the beautifully landscaped gardens. As a museum and a beacon of political heritage, the Union Buildings offer a serene environment to reflect on the country's journey and the legacy of its leaders.

  • Government Ave, Pretoria, 0002, South Africa
  • Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour

Bravo Pizzeria Hatfield

Where to Stay Tonight

Sheraton pretoria hotel, premier hotel pretoria, arcadia hotel, hotel 224 & apartments, top things to do in sandton-2024.

Gold Reef City Theme Park

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Transportation | Interstate 680 closure could make St….

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Transportation | interstate 680 closure could make st. patrick’s day weekend travel a slow-go, repairs between i-580/i-680 interchange and highway 84 scheduled.

Rick Hurd, Breaking news/East Bay for the Bay Area News Group is photographed for a Wordpress profile in Walnut Creek, Calif., on Thursday, July 28, 2016. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group)

Commuters heading to the South Bay or portions of the East Bay for St. Patrick’s Day weekend fun will have to find a way to get there without using a stretch of Interstate 680.

The closure comes amid more than two dozen planned Bay Area celebrations for St. Patrick’s Day , including one in downtown Dublin that often draws big crowds.

Workers will be repairing a portion of the roadway that’s deteriorating, the agency said. New pavement will be put down to repair the eroding areas.

The closure originally was scheduled last month, but a heavy winter storm that dumped rain postponed the project . The forecast for this weekend is for sunny skies over most of the Bay Area, with highs in the low 70s around the Pleasanton-Dublin area.

Caltrans said the work set for the weekend — as well as work done on two previous weekends — is helping workers avoid approximately 40 night-time closures.

Drivers are encouraged to avoid the area and give themselves extra time to travel long distances. From Danville and San Ramon, drivers should take I-580 west to state Highway 238 before heading south on I-880.

Those driving from Stockton and Tracy should go west on I-580 to southbound Highway 84 and rejoin southbound I-680 at Calaveras Road.

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THE BEST Elektrostal Sights & Historical Landmarks

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