Day Trips from New York
← All New York day tripsDay Trips from New York: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of New York, NY. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near New York
Scenic Overlook
Closter, NJ 07624
Just 37 min from New York, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Scenic Overlook
NJ 07732, USA
Just 1 hr 24 min from New York, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Delaware River Scenic Viewpoint
Sparrow Bush, NY 12780
Just 1 hr 52 min from New York, rated 4.9 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Gertrude's Nose
Gardiner, NY 12525
Just 1 hr 56 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Bear Mountain Bridge scenic lookout
Highland Falls, NY 10928
Just 1 hr 10 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook
Atlantic Highlands, NJ 07716
Just 1 hr 10 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 974 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Rockefeller Lookout
NJ 07632, USA
Just 30 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 1,107 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Hither Hills Scenic Overlook
NY 11954, USA
Just 2 hrs 23 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Upper Delaware Scenic Byway
Sparrow Bush, NY 12780
Just 1 hr 51 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 324 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Castle Point Lookout
Hoboken, NJ 07030
Just 23 min from New York, rated 4.8 stars by 141 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Shore Road Promenade Scenic Lookout
Brooklyn, NY 11209
Just 22 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 135 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Alpine Lookout
NJ 07620, USA
Just 32 min from New York, rated 4.7 stars by 1,110 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from New York
What are the best scenic drives near New York, NY?
The best scenic drives near New York include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from New York?
Most scenic drives near New York range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near New York?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near New York, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from New York?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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