Escape from New York City: Ideal Day Trips

New York City is one of the larger cities in the United States. As such, it is a bustling place, full of life and vigor and many, many things to do. However, there are times when those living within New York City may wish to take a day trip to places outside of the city. Here are five ideal locations for a day trip from New York City.

One popular destination is Lake George, New York. Having grown up at beautiful Lake George, I discovered as an adult that there are few places with such clear, clean water and exciting things to do. Located approximately 3.5 hours from New York City, to create a day trip from New York City to Lake George would necessitate leaving somewhat earlier in the morning, but once there, the grime of the city will instantly fall off as you partake in swimming at one of the many public swimming locations. You can also catch a ride on one of the historical steamboats. If you wish to take boating matters into your own hands, you can rent boats or sea-doos from countless places. Finally, Fort William Henry is open from May to October for a fee of approximately $15 per adult, $8 per child.

If you prefer sports to nature, a day trip of approximately the same distance from New York City is Cooperstown, NY. There, you will discover the Baseball Hall of Fame. Open from 9-5 and 9-9 in summer, the Baseball Hall of Fame is open almost every day of the year. Here, you can get a glimpse of America's favorite pastime. As a day trip from New York City, the Baseball Hall of Fame permits visitors to see everything from century old baseball gloves to information and statistics about your favorite baseball players through the ages. Adults pay $19.50 to enter, seniors $12 and children $7, and there are a variety of discounts available to a variety of groups, listed here.

For those craving a bit of excitement only a short trip away from New York City, one day trip available only 30 minutes outside of the city is Belmont Park. This racetrack offers horse racing during various times of the year. Admission prices and parking fees vary.The short drive to Belmont Park from New York City makes this an easy day trip that provides hours of entertainment for both adults and children. Although betting on the horses is a popular way to pass the time at Belmont Park, others can simply watch the races while they eat concessions. The flexibility offered in a day trip so close to New York City means that this is a great way to spend a day for just about anyone.

Atlantic City, New Jersey is approximately 2 or 2.5 hours from New York City and can provide easily a day (or more) worth of entertainment to those visiting from the City. Atlantic City offers many casinos and a bustling nightlife. Though the casinos and nightlife here are geared more towards adults, the beaches and various attractions, such as amusement parks and arcades entertain children and adults not wishing to gamble. Those wishing to gamble can do so in any of the number of large, picturesque casinos. Festivals and concerts keep the fun light and exciting.

Finally, for those who truly wish to escape city life, Montauk Bay in Long Island is a 2.5 hour drive from New York City. Although this destination is only viable as a day trip from New York City during late spring through early fall, it abounds with relaxing and peaceful outdoor recreation and attractions. The Montauk Bay Lighthouse and museum draw those who wish to view a historical site (this lighthouse was the first in New York). Those who want to embrace nature can take hikes, ride bikes, go to the beautiful Montauk beaches, fish, etc. Others may wish to take a whale watching tour or try any of a variety of water sports.

Although there are many ways to get out of the doldrums of the city, these are five of the best day trips from New York City, and I strongly recommend trying them.