Best Easter Day Trips from New York City for Couples
Looking for the best Easter day trips from New York City? Easter is a good time for couples to step away from the usual routine and spend a day somewhere different. Whether you’re into scenic spots, quiet towns, or places with a bit of culture, the best Easter day trips are all within a short drive or train ride from the city. Here are a few options that are easy to reach and worth the time.
Best Easter Day Trips from New York City
1. Bear Mountain
Just over an hour’s drive from New York City, Bear Mountain State Park is a great spot for couples who enjoy the outdoors. The park has well-maintained hiking trails with views of the Hudson River, a scenic drive along Seven Lakes Drive, and boat rentals on Hessian Lake. There’s also a small zoo featuring native animals. After exploring, visitors can stop by the historic Bear Mountain Inn for a meal before heading back to the city.
- Activities: Hiking, biking, fishing, picnicking, scenic drive along Seven Lakes Drive, zoo visit.
- Website: Bear Mountain State Park
- Phone: (845) 786-2701
- Address: 3006 Seven Lakes Drive, Tomkins Cove, NY 10986
- Price: Parking fee applies; free entry to most areas.
2. Beacon
Beacon is one of the best Easter day trips for couples who want a mix of art, nature, and local charm. Just 1.5 hours from New York City, this small Hudson Valley town is known for Dia:Beacon, a massive modern art museum in a former factory. You can walk along the river, browse vintage shops, or grab lunch at a farm-to-table spot. For a more active afternoon, hike up Mount Beacon for some great valley views.
- Attractions: Dia:Beacon modern art museum, vintage shops, riverfront parks, Mount Beacon hiking trails.
- Website: Dia:Beacon
- Phone: (845) 440-0100
- Address: 3 Beekman Street, Beacon, NY 12508
- Price: General admission starts at $20.
3. Asbury Park
A coastal town just 1.5 hours from New York City, Asbury Park is known for its music scene, beaches, and boardwalk. The Stone Pony, a legendary venue, hosts live performances year-round. The boardwalk is great for a walk, with beachside dining, shops, and murals adding to the atmosphere. The sandy shore offers a peaceful place to relax, and there are plenty of bars and restaurants for a lively evening.
- Attractions: The Stone Pony music venue, boardwalk, beach, local restaurants, nightlife.
- Website: The Stone Pony
- Phone: (732) 502-0600
- Address: 913 Ocean Avenue, Asbury Park, NJ 07712
- Price: Varies by event.
4. New Hope
This town along the Delaware River is a great spot for couples who enjoy history, arts, and scenic landscapes. New Hope has historic inns, local shops, and a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, take a ride on the New Hope Railroad, or have a meal at one of the many riverside restaurants.
- Attractions: Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve, New Hope Railroad, boutique shopping, scenic canal walks.
- Website: Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve
- Phone: (215) 862-2924
- Address: 1635 River Road, New Hope, PA 18938
- Price: General admission starts at $12.36.
5. Cold Spring
A small village along the Hudson River, Cold Spring is great for antique shopping, hiking, and local dining. The West Point Foundry Preserve offers a look into 19th-century industry, while Hudson Highlands State Park has trails with river views. The town’s restaurants offer fresh, seasonal meals, making it a great spot for a day trip.
- Attractions: Stonecrop Gardens, antique shops, Hudson Highlands State Park, West Point Foundry Preserve.
- Website: Stonecrop Gardens
- Phone: (845) 265-2000
- Address: 81 Stonecrop Lane, Cold Spring, NY 10516
- Price: Self-guided tours start at $10.
6. Montauk
At the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is a good choice for couples who enjoy ocean views and seafood. Montauk Point State Park is home to the Montauk Point Lighthouse, where visitors can climb to the top for views of the coastline. The beaches are great for long walks, and Montauk’s seafood restaurants serve dishes made from local catches.
- Attractions: Montauk Point Lighthouse, Hither Hills State Park, beach walks, seafood restaurants.
- Website: Montauk Point Lighthouse
- Address: 2000 Montauk Highway, Montauk, NY 11954
- Price: General admission starts at $15.
7. Croton-on-Hudson
Croton-on-Hudson is one of the best Easter day trips for couples looking to slow things down without going too far. Less than an hour from New York City, this quiet village has peaceful views and a relaxed pace. You can stop by Croton Gorge Park to check out the New Croton Dam or take a walk through Teatown Lake Reservation, which has easy-to-moderate trails and lots of wildlife. With a few simple places to eat and no big crowds, it’s an easy pick for a calm day outdoors.
- Attractions: Croton Gorge Park, New Croton Dam, Teatown Lake Reservation trails.
- Website: Croton Gorge Park
- Phone: (914) 862-5290
- Address: 35 Yorktown Rd, Croton-On-Hudson, NY 10520
- Price: Park admission varies by activity.
8. Princeton
This college town has a mix of historic sites, art, and well-kept gardens. A walk through Princeton University’s campus feels like stepping into another world, especially in spring. You can check out the university art museum or visit the Morven Museum and Garden. Downtown Princeton has coffee shops, bookstores, and restaurants that are easy to explore on foot. It’s a laid-back spot with just enough going on to fill a relaxed afternoon.
- Attractions: Princeton University campus, Morven Museum & Garden, downtown shopping.
- Website: Morven Museum & Garden
- Phone: (609) 924-8144 ext. 103
- Address: 55 Stockton Street, Princeton, NJ 08540
- Price: Adult admission starts at $12.
9. The Hamptons
Known for its coastal towns and beaches, the Hamptons is about two hours from New York City and works well as a full-day escape. Couples can stop by spots like East Hampton or Southampton for local shops and fresh seafood. Coopers Beach is open to the public and is a nice place to walk or sit by the water. Spring is a bit quieter before the summer rush, so it’s a good time to enjoy the area at a slower pace.
- Attractions: Coopers Beach, East Hampton shops, seafood restaurants.
- Website: Coopers Beach
- Phone: (631) 283-0247
- Address: 268 Meadow Lane, Southampton, NY 11968
- Price: Activities and parking fees apply.
10. Storm King Art Center
Storm King blends large-scale outdoor sculptures with open landscapes, making it a good pick for couples who want something different. You can walk or rent bikes to get around the grounds and take in the artwork at your own pace. The layout is open, and there’s plenty of space to move around without feeling crowded. It’s a nice change from the usual museum setup, especially on a spring day.
- Attractions: Outdoor sculpture park, art installations, open walking trails.
- Website: Storm King Art Center
- Phone: (845) 534-3115
- Address: 1 Museum Road, New Windsor, NY 12553
- Price: General admission starts at $25.
Whether you prefer nature, arts, or a coastal trip, there’s a day trip option that fits your style. From quiet trails to lively towns, these destinations offer a chance to unwind and enjoy Easter away from the city. If you’re planning to stay in town this year, check out our other guide, Budget-Friendly Easter Eats in New York City. It’s full of great places to grab a meal without breaking the bank.
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