Hop the ferry to Governors Island to explore all the island has to offer. Photo by Diana Kim
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These spring day trips from the NYC metro area are the perfect antidote to winter-induced stir-craziness. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to fill the spring break holiday, or your family just needs a collective getaway, having this list of spring day trips from NYC at your fingertips provides plenty of daycation inspiration.
From hiking to smelling the blooms and strolling amid sculpture gardens, there is something on this list of spring day trips from the NYC metro area for everyone. Since we have a low tolerance for driving, all of these spring day trips are an easy drive from New York City. Find more seasonal inspiration in our Guide to Spring Activities and travel ideas in our Guide to Weekend Getaways.
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Experience Coney Island’s thrills at Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. You can also visit the New York Aquarium to see the sharks, sea lions, and other underwater creatures. Afterward, hit the beach, stroll the boardwalk, and feast on a hot dog at Nathan’s.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram over the East River to explore Roosevelt Island and get a fresh perspective on the city. Our favorite spot is Southpoint Park and the nearby lighthouse. Take your scooter or bike and ride around the promenade, which is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season.
Little Island is perhaps the city’s most magical green space. Opened in 2021, this whimsical park practically floats on the Hudson River and has winding paths, stairs, tons of interesting plants, and two large grassy hills that beg to be rolled down. When you’re done, explore more fun nearby including Pier 57, with its food hall and rooftop park, or Manhattan’s first public beach at the Gansevoort Peninsula.
Take the ferry to Staten Island and visit the Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. Behold all the treasures this small nook in Staten Island holds.
Hop on a ferry to Governors Island. There are tons of activities, including creative playgrounds, biking riding, and splash pads to keep the whole family entertained. Extend your visit with a glamping adventure at Collective Retreats come May.
Bask in the beauty of nature at Wave Hill, a bucolic public garden and cultural center. Offering family programs and events, a spring day trip to Wave Hill is a great way to enjoy a warm, sunny day.
Reaching Flushing Meadows Corona Park is a day trip for many in NYC, but well worth it: You’ll find the Queens Botanical Garden, the Queens Zoo, and the Queens Museum here. The New York Hall of Science is a must-visit, too. Head out in late spring to romp in the spectacular play fountain at the foot of the Unisphere.
Pelham Bay Park is the largest park in NYC. It’s three times the size of Central Park, and to say it has something for everyone is an understatement. Take a stroll along the Orchard Beach Promenade and behold the beauty of spring.
This beloved local institution celebrated its quasquicentennial in 2024 and is well worth a visit in any season. We’ve got pro tips for exploring like a local to make the most out of your zoo adventure.
RELATED: 23 Secret Spots in NYC Kids Love 
Head to Rockefeller State Park Preserve for a hike when the stunning peonies bloom in late April or early May, or try one of these other destination hikes in Westchester.
Explore the spectacular 750-mile-long Empire State Trail, which is the nation’s longest multi-use trail, running from Manhattan up to the Canadian border and from Buffalo to Albany, providing a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty of New York and its rich history.
Ride bikes along the Old Croton Aqueduct Trail from Van Cortlandt Park to Untermeyer Gardens in Yonkers, where you can enjoy 43 acres of New York’s most beautiful landscaping.
RELATED: Easy New York State Park Hikes for Families 
Hike the Dinosaur Trail, or explore the rest of the grounds at the Sands Point Preserve, which also houses a castle and is near the family-friendly village of Port Washington.
Enjoy the fragrant blooms at Old Westbury Gardens when it reopens on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, just as the cherry blossoms begin to bloom.
Pack a picnic lunch and head to Caumsett State Park, which sits on a peninsula that juts out into the Long Island Sound. Your family can enjoy miles of beautiful nature paths; it’s one of our favorite state parks on Long Island.
Perched at the eastern end of Long Island, Montauk is filled with things to do and makes for a relaxing day trip. You can enjoy the sand and waves, explore the Montauk lighthouse, or take a hike through Montauk State Park. Enjoy some delicious seafood before heading home.
RELATED: Top Attractions on Long Island for Families 
Legoland New York opens its doors on Friday, March 27, 2026. Families can enjoy more than 50 rides, attractions, and games, including a brand-new Ferarri build-and-race experience.
This artsy Dutchess County Town blooms with family-friendly things to do. Spend a day exploring its main street, shop at a local farm, or enjoy the peaceful Poet’s Walk Park.
Experience the natural beauty, history, amazing art, design, and architecture at Olana State Historic Site. It’s a great destination for the whole family, offering sights and activities for kids and parents alike.
Hit the road for Bear Mountain State Park. A go-to destination for my family every spring, this treasure trove offers beautiful hiking, an enchanting Trailside Museum, and even a sweet zoo.
Head to Beacon to explore its charming, fun-packed Main Street, and visit Dia Beacon, where you can view cutting-edge, large-scale art installations.
At Storm King Art Center, a stunning outdoor sculpture garden, kids can walk the grounds and hills without fear of bumping into the art. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the tables during your excursion. It reopens for the season on Wednesday, April 1, 2026.
Walk, bike, scoot, or blade across the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie, which connects Dutchess and Ulster counties.
RELATED: 100 Things To Do in New York State Before Your Kids Grow Up
Kids can admire sculptures, like this piece from Isaac Witkin, at the Grounds for Sculpture. Photo by David Howarth
Visit New Jersey’s whimsical 42-acre Grounds For Sculpture. Inquire about the family-friendly activities, like its Tots for Sculpture and Family Open Studios.
Just across the George Washington Bridge, Palisades Interstate Park is a perfect place to head for a gorgeous guided hike. You’ll find ample parking, stunning Hudson River views, and a snack bar.
Thrill-seekers should start planning their trip now for Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson.
This New Jersey mega mall is just a hop, skip, and jump across the river and brings with it tons of fun things to do for families, including an amusement park, water park, and tons of family-friendly restaurants, shopping, fun, and attractions.
Head Down the Shore to explore the bustling boardwalk of Atlantic City and spend some time at the Steel Pier while you’re there. Find more fun Shore destinations on our list of the 70 best things to do on the Jersey Shore with kids.
For sweets and thrills, head to Hersheypark. Ride Candymonium, the longest, tallest, and fastest coaster in the park, satisfy your sweet tooth at Chocolatetown, and explore the rest of the fun things to do in Hershey, Pennsylvania, with kids.
The ultimate amusement park for the younger set, Sesame Place offers rides, water play, activities, shows, parades, and special moments for a memorable spring day trip.
The Pocono Mountains offer a wide array of family-fun activities in all seasons, especially in the spring. Enjoy hiking, swimming, boating, and other outdoor activities. Stay at one of the many mountainside resorts or rent your own cabin, and turn your day trip into a weekend getaway.
Take a day trip to Philly to explore its history and kid-friendly attractions.
Originally published in 2016.
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