Many New Yorkers are looking to get away before the summer is up, but what some don’t realize is that they don’t even have to leave New York to feel like they’re getting away. Instead of taking up vacation days to travel afar, they could save those days off for winter and just take a day to explore an area within their very own state while the sun is still shining.
Check out all these places to go in New York!
Parks: Parks are great for a day getaway. There are a variety of activities to keep you and your friends busy. Many parks offer free entrance. Once you get inside, you can do anything from having a picnic, completing a nice workout or just exploring what the park has to offer by foot.
Central Park– You can spend the day and more in this famous park. Many New Yorkers ride their bikes or run through the park for a morning workout. It is a relaxing place to read under a tree and just enjoy the summer day. Pack a basket for lunch, and have a picnic by the lake with your friends.
Brooklyn Bridge State Park (Furman St. Brooklyn)– A waterfront park with a lot to offer. Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, or sit down for a picnic with friends. Kayaking, boating, basketball, soccer and birding are just few of the many activities offered here. There is something for everyone in the family, including playgrounds for the kids and dog runs for man’s best friend. Be sure to check online and in the papers, because there are always free events being held here, like yoga, concerts and even book readings.
The High Line– A relatively new park in New York City, built on a historic freight railway line elevated above the streets of Manhattan. It is a cool walk and provides a great view of the city.
Hudson River Park– With 500 acres of park to explore, there is something for everyone. Mini golf, trapeze, kayaking, dog runs and play areas for the kids are just few of the many things you’ll find inside this New York City gem. This is the athlete’s haven: it offers basketball, running, over five miles of bike trails, rock climbing, field sports and more. You’re sure to find enough activities to keep you busy for a week!
Prospect Park– This beautiful park has a 60-acre lake and the only forest in Brooklyn. Visitors have the option of pedal boating, hiking or having a quiet picnic in the park. Before you go, don’t forget to visit the zoo!
Valley Stream State Park (Valley Stream)– This quiet park is great for relaxing with a book, having a barbecue, playing a game of volleyball or just riding your bike through the park and around the lake. There is a fitness trail set up throughout the park where you can work on pull ups, crunches or push ups. Handball courts, tennis courts and basketball courts are available for your leisure. You can also choose to go for a swim or play a game of mini golf.
Hempstead Lake State Park (West Hempstead)– A popular place to host barbecues, the park is quiet and has a lot of activities to keep your friends and family entertained. There are tennis and basketball courts, hiking and biking trails, and a historic wooden carousel. For your barbecue, you can rent the carousel for $350.00 and get unlimited carousel rides for your friends.
Beaches: Here in New York, people are fortunate enough to say they’re never too far from a beach.
Jones Beach (Wantagh)– Go for a dip in the ocean, run, walk or bike the boardwalk. Here you also have the option to play shuffleboard, mini gold or beach volleyball.
Long Beach (Long Beach)– Many things are going on in the city of Long Beach. Often you will find fitness groups, recreation programs and sports games going on. You can walk, run or bike on the boardwalk, as well as play basketball. If you don’t want to swim in the ocean, you could opt to swim in a pool.
Gilgo Beach (Babylon)- Although swimming is not permitted in this area, it is a popular destination for scenic views on Long Island and for fishing. The area is underdeveloped, so you will get the tranquility you are searching for.
Tobay Beach (Massapequa)- Long Islanders value this beach because it is only a short walk to the water. The beach is rarely overcrowded, which allows you to set up your own space on the beach and relax after a long work week. The only downside is for non-residents; weekend parking will set you back $20.
South Beach (Staten Island)- With a delightful view of the Verazzano, beachgoers can sunbathe, jog or bike on the boardwalk, kayak, or play tennis.
Trails: A nice way to keep yourself busy for the day while getting in your workout and daily dose of Vitamin D is to go for a hike! There is just a small fee to get in. On the trails, you can run, ride your bike or get your dog out for a walk! When you’re through walking on the boardwalks at the beach, you should consider the beautiful hiking trails upstate. The long walk is all worth it when you see the view at the end!
Mohonk Preserve (Gardiner)- Trails are divided up by difficulty level. For the beginners, there are shorter trail options with less of an elevation. For more experienced hikers, there are longer trails with a lot more climbing. It is just a short walk to get a view of the Mohonk Mountain House. If hiking isn’t really your thing, you also have the option to go rock climbing, bouldering, bike or run.
Peterskill Trail (Gardiner)– Located in Minnewaska State Park, the trail stretches for 7.5 miles through wooded areas, which were once fields and stone walls. Enjoy views of the ridge and the stream winding through the woods.
West Trapps (New Paltz)– Climb, hike, bike, run or go horseback riding on these beautiful trails that go along the carriage road and lead you to summit views. Shorter hikes are available if you’re a beginner or looking for a quick workout. For more experienced hikers, you can opt for a trail with hills to provide a challenge.
Vernooy Falls (Kerhonkson)– Four miles there and back, this trail features a waterfall and has a moderate level of difficulty.
