10 Epic Road Trips from NYC to Add to Your Bucket List
Dreaming of a road trip? Pack your bags and hit the open road! New York City is a perfect starting point for exploring the country’s scenic roads, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. From the wild Atlantic shores to the stunning peaks of the Adirondacks, there are countless routes to take, each with its own charm and allure.
Here are 10 epic road trips from NYC to add to your bucket list.
1. The Hudson Valley Route
Follow the Hudson River north from NYC and discover the charming towns, historic sites, and breathtaking vistas of the Hudson Valley. Stop by the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery to pay homage to Washington Irving, or visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum to learn about one of America’s greatest presidents. Don’t miss the stunning state parks, such as Bear Mountain and Minnewaska, which offer hiking, swimming, and picnicking opportunities.
2. The Catskills Scenic Drive
Head west from Hudson Valley and enter the iconic Catskills Mountains. This 52-mile scenic drive on Route 28 takes you through lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages. Stop by the Woodstock Museum to relive the iconic 1969 music festival, or take a dip in the cool waters of the Esopus Creek. You can also explore a number of charming towns, such as Phoenicia and Margaretville, that offer farm-to-table dining and craft beer.
3. The Finger Lakes Route
Venture west to the Finger Lakes region, where you can explore over 11 glacial lakes and some of the best wineries in the country. The scenic route takes you through charming towns, such as Skaneateles and Aurora, where you can indulge in handmade chocolates and locally sourced produce. Don’t miss the stunning Watkins Glen State Park, where you can hike through a gorge and take in breathtaking waterfalls.
4. The Adirondacks Loop
For a true wilderness experience, head north to the Adirondacks Park, the largest protected area in the contiguous United States. The 170-mile loop takes you through towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and dense forests, and offers plenty of camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities. Don’t miss the High Peaks Wilderness Area, home to 46 mountains over 4,000 feet.
5. The Niagara Falls Trip
You can’t miss the majesty of Niagara Falls, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. The 400-mile drive takes you through the scenic Finger Lakes, the rolling hills of the Southern Tier, and the charming towns along Lake Ontario. Don’t miss the Niagara Wine Trail, where you can taste some of the best wines in the region.
6. The Cape Cod Route
For a coastal retreat, head southeast to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The 500-mile trip takes you through charming towns, such as Mystic and Newport, and offers plenty of beach-hopping, seafood dining, and lighthouse exploring opportunities. Don’t miss the Provincetown, the colorful artsy community at the tip of Cape Cod.
7. The Green Mountains Drive
Across the state border lies Vermont, the land of maple syrup, cheese, and idyllic small towns. The Green Mountains route takes you through the scenic Route 100, where you can enjoy the fall foliage, taste artisanal cheeses, and visit some of the best craft breweries in the country. Don’t miss the quaint towns, such as Stowe and Woodstock, where you can indulge in handmade chocolates and fresh produce.
8. The Berkshires Trip
For a cultural getaway, head southeast to the Berkshires, Massachusetts. The scenic route takes you through charming towns, such as Great Barrington and Lenox, and offers plenty of outdoor recreation, art museums, and farm-to-table dining options. Don’t miss the Tanglewood Music Festival, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, or the Norman Rockwell Museum, which showcases the work of the iconic American painter.
9. The Maine Lobster Trail
If you love seafood, head northeast to Maine, the lobster capital of the world. Follow the coastal route, which takes you through charming towns, such as Rockland and Bar Harbor, and offers plenty of lobster shacks, lighthouses, and whale watching opportunities. Don’t miss the Acadia National Park, where you can hike, bike, and kayak through stunning landscapes.
10. The Montreal Road Trip
For an international adventure, head north to French-speaking Montreal, Quebec. The scenic drive takes you through the gorgeous Adirondacks and the charming towns of Lake Champlain, and offers plenty of chances to indulge in poutine, bagels, and smoked meat. Don’t miss the historic Old Montreal, the stunning Mont-Royal Park, or the bustling rue Sainte-Catherine, the city’s main shopping street.
In conclusion, the road trips from NYC offer something for everyone, from scenic drives through the mountains to coastal retreats and cultural getaways. By exploring the country’s scenic roads, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, you’ll create unforgettable memories and inspire your wanderlust. So, pack your bags, buckle up, and hit the open road. Your next adventure awaits!
