13 Fall Road Trips Near NYC for All Your Leaf-Peeping, Apple-Picking and Wine-Sipping Needs

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish.You can learn more about the affiliate process here.

NYCis undoubtedly lovely this time of year, but something about the autumnal air makes us want to get out of town. And whether you’re in the market fora bucolic retreat, a quaint hamlet or even justa (different) bustling city, these not-so-far-flung destinations are more than worthy of digging out that driver’s license. Here are 13 gorgeous fall road trips near NYC—most of which are a quick drive in just two hours or less.

因为你是纽约人,你很可能需要a set of wheels. When it comes to the perfect road trip vehicle, a compact or midsize SUV will keep you comfortable on longer drives, and there are quite a few optionsavailable in every borough. Pro tip: A hybrid electric vehicle can help you get further in times like these when gas is at a premium.

Note: All car travel times are estimates and do not take traffic or other delays into consideration.

11 Easy One-Tank Road Trips in the U.S. Because Gas Is Expensive and Airports Are Chaos


fall road trips near nyc boston ma
DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

1. Boston, Massachusetts

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 217 miles or 3 hours, 30 minutes by car (or take ahigh-speed Acela和抛弃汽车完全依赖)

Maybe it's the crisp air, the changing leaves, or the pumpkin spice, but we can't get enough of Beantown in autumn. Strolling through thePublic Gardenthis special time of year is especially lovely as the trees start to change color and the flowers are still in bloom.

Stay:Timeless and effortlessly chic,Boston Harbor Hotelis positioned on Rowes Wharf and gives travelers the best of both worlds—the Boston Harbor and the Boston cityscape. Traveling with your four-legged pal? This pretty accommodation is also a great pet-friendly option.

Other stays we love:

Eat:Esteemed chef Lydia Shire (a friend to the late, great Julia Child) has helmedScampo, located atThe Liberty Hotel, since 2008 where highlights include a large Kurobuta pork chop, a lobster and lamb-topped pizza, green bean tempura, and a well-worth-the-carbs naan bread. For seafood, visitBank’s Fish House(save room for the Banana Ice Cream Sundae) or snag a sunset table at the more casualThe Barking Crab, a shucker house that will fulfill any cute and casual seafood extravaganza fantasy.

Do:Previously covered in parking lots,Seaport neighborhoodhas been transformed with glittering, modern skyscrapers, cute cafes and restaurants, upscale shops at The Superette and great museums, like theInstitute of Contemporary Art (ICA), where Yayoi Kusama’s otherworldly “Love Is Calling“目前正在展出。附近是肌萎缩性侧索硬化症o home to Cisco Brewers, a newly opened green space The Rocks at Harbor Way. You can also explore classic Boston by following the Freedom Trail; sure, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Boston, but that’s for good reason. The 2.5-mile long walking trail takes you to 16 different historical sites, including the Paul Revere House, the Old State House, and Fenway Park. It's a great way to see the city and learn about its rich history—plus, it’s free and it’s a sneaky way of doing a walking tour without needing to look at a map (though you can). Simply follow the red brick in the trail all around the city to see some of its best sites.

fall road trips near nyc amagansett ny
Byba Sepit/Getty Images

2. Amagansett, New York

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 106 miles or 2 hours by car (ortake the LIRR)

Leaf peeping season is something to behold in Amagansett where you can catch some of autumn's most vibrant foliage—and the best part is, this quaint Hampton’s hamlet sees a steep decline in tourism after summer, so you won't have to deal with overwhelming crowds.

Stay:The ultra-cozyRoundtree Hotelis uniquely composed of centuries-old renovated cottages and a barn. If you spring for a cottage, you can even enjoy warming up by a private fireplace beneath an airy cathedral ceiling (one cottage dates back an astonishing 250 years).

Other stays we love:

Eat:Wölffer Kitchen Amagansettis an upscale bohemian eatery owned byWölffer Estate Vineyard, and it’s considered one of the hottest dining spots in the Hamptons no matter the season. For a more casual dining experience,Main Street Tavernserves classic American fare from a balanced menu of seasonal and savory dishes like crispy shrimp, zucchini fritters, and homemade chicken pot pie. It’s also a great place to have a beer and watch the game.

Do:Drive over toHank’s Pumpkintownfor some of the best seasonal activities around like apple picking, pumpkin picking, and braving some of Long Island’s most intricate corn mazes. When you get hungry, stop by The Market for fresh pies, apple cider slushies, and other sweet treats. If you like to go off the beaten path, you can take a self-guided hike through East Hampton’s historic ghost town, an abandoned “northwest settlement” that dates back to the 17th century. When you’re ready to return to civilization, stroll throughAmagansett Squarewhere you’ll find lovely boutique storefronts, eateries, wellness shops, and more at the heart of the friendly town.

fall road trips near nyc mystic ct
DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

3. Mystic, Connecticut

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 135 miles or 3 hours by car (ortake Amtrak)

During the fall, the picturesque town of Mystic, Connecticut combines an enchanting downtown, urban comforts, and brilliant autumnal hues with coastal charm. Founded in 1665, the historic site is a significant Connecticut seaport with more than 600 ships built over 135 years. There’s plenty to do and see, from theMystic Seaport Museum(the largest maritime museum in the U.S.) to the downtown waterfront shopping district that boasts over 80 independently-owned shops and fine art galleries.

Stay:Whaler’s Innoffers a warm respite from fall’s cold temperatures in the heart of Mystic, just steps from the banks of the Mystic River and theBascule Drawbridge. Featuring 45 well-appointed rooms with understated historical charm, the five-building complex dates back to 1910. During colder months, the lobby awaits with an ever-crackling fire and complimentary fresh-baked afternoon cookies.

Other stays we love:

Do:Mystic Country is part of both the Connecticut Wine Trail and the Coastal Wine Trail, offering pleasurable tours through some of the finest vineyards on the East Coast. Travelers have an abundance of wineries and vineyards to choose from (Saltwater Farm Vineyarddraws visitors year-round for its beautiful tasting room, uniquely located in a WWII-era private airport), but no seasonal stay would be complete without stopping byB.F. Clyde’s Cider Mill. Founded in 1881, it’s the oldest steam-powered cider mill in the U.S., offering delicious wines and traditional ciders that are taken directly from the barrel to the jug for a rich, oaky flavor. Spider Cider is a fan favorite, best served in a hot toddy with a side of B.F. Clyde’s famous old-fashioned cider donuts.

Eat:Grab a slice of wood fired pizza atMango’sor indulge in a steaming cup of coffee and spooky artisanal donuts—the pumpkin chai is super cute—atDeviant Donuts.Captain Daniel Packer Inneis a short stroll from Main Street in Downtown Mystic, offering cozy inn ambiance in a restaurant that was built over 250 years ago. You’ll love their comforting soups including baked onion and clam chowder, all prepared with the freshest quality ingredients. Be sure to stop byMystic Pizzawhile you're here too, a nostalgic spot that serves up pies in a space filled with memorabilia. Yes, it did inspire the 1988 film and yes, the iconic pizza really is a slice of heaven!

fall road trips near nyc litchfield hills
DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

4. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

  • Distance from NYC:approximate 99 miles or 2 hours by car

Litchfield is known for some of the best antique shopping in Connecticut, so if scouring estate sales, curated barns-turned-stores and flea markets for vintage gems is your jam, this getaway is right up your alley.

Stay:Book a stay atWinvian Farm, which boasts 18 luxury cottages each with its own unique spin—like a whimsical-chic tree house, a refurbished helicopter and a nautical lighthouse.

Other stays we love:

Do:Don’t feel like going far? The resort offers horseback riding, cooking classes, bikes for guests and a luxurious spa, along with snowshoeing and cross-country skiing come the winter months. If you’re feeling ambitious, you’re just a quick ten-minute drive fromhot-air ballooning.

Eat:Sample the “seed-to-table” tasting menu at Winvian’s onsite restaurant, or head to theWest Street Grillfor bistro-style eats (the Parmesan aioli peasant bread is a must) and alfresco seating.

fall road trips near nyc princeton nj
luvemakphoto/Getty Images

5. Princeton, New Jersey

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 53 miles or 1 hours, 15 minutes by car (also reachable viaNJ Transit)

Though you could spend an entire day touring the campus of Princeton University—full of Gothic architecture that looks increasingly spooky as Halloween rolls around—the Ivy League college is not the only thing of note in this charming town.

Stay:If you want to be within walking distance of all the action, look no further than Princeton’s Palmer Square and focal pointThe Nassau Inn, a historic landmark hotel where Thomas Paine and Paul Revere hung out.

Other stays we love:

Do:Princeton has a pedestrian-friendly shopping district full of clothing stores, home décor outposts and a few old-school bookstores with killer names, likeLabyrinth BooksandThe Cloak & Dagger, which is dedicated to mystery books. There’s also acupcakes shopthat would give Magnolia a run for their money any day. Drama buffs should be sure to catch a show at the veneratedMcCarter Theatre Center.

Eat:You could easily spend the better part of your weekend eating your way through town, from the casual and aptly-namedPJ’s Pancake Houseto the elegantPeacock Inn, which is housed in an adorable Victorian-era home and doubles as a boutique hotel.Agricola Eateryis a local favorite and is filled with good design and vibes. And whatever you do, do not skip out of town without trying the unique ice cream creations atThe Bent Spoon.

ny fall roadtrips list3
Aloft Hotel

6. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 95 miles or 1 hour, 15 mins by car (or, take ahigh-speed Acela)

Sure, the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall are worth seeing if you’ve never been, but you’ll also want to leave enough time for incredible food and a creepy prison tour.

Stay:Aloft Philadelphia Downtownblends the city’s rich history with contemporary vibes. The 179 guest rooms took over the former Liberty Title & Trust Building, built in 1925. If you want to go full-on fancypants, theFour Seasons Philadelphiais a contemporary marvel of design, architecture and views.

Other stays we love:

Do:Take a relaxing stroll through Philly’s famed Rittenhouse Square: It’s a great place to take in the fall colors as you admire the beautiful homes built around it, some of which date back to the early 19th century. Theiconic LOVE Parkis a must, as are the pseudo-psychedelicMagic Gardens, if even only for the Instagram opportunity. And those inclined to the macabre need to make a stop atEastern State Penitentiary, the historic prison where Al Capone was once incarcerated which is extremely popular around Halloween for obvious reasons.

Eat:Even the snobbiest New Yorkers won’t be disappointed in Philly’s thriving dining scene, where yes, even the pizza is good. TryeevaorDown Northif you’re in the mood for ‘za. The latter has an incredible mission to reduce recidivism, and exclusively employs formerly incarcerated people and pays them equitable ages.

In Philly, you can also grab a table at the buzzyVetrifor Italian,El Vezfor Mexican, andRiver Twicefor a little bit of everything.

ny fall roadtrips list4
Bedford Post

7. Bedford, New York

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 47 miles or 1 hour, 15 minutes by car

No wonder Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds once chose to settle down in this quaint Westchester town—it’s close to the city while still maintaining plenty of rural charm.

Stay:Check into theBedford Post Inn, an eight-room property (with romantic fireplaces in most rooms) that features two incredible restaurants—one with a see-and-be-seen outdoor patio—and a yoga studio.

Other stays we love:

Do:Spend a nature day atWard Pound Ridge Reservation; the nearbyOuthouse Orchardsfor Halloween-esque corn mazes, spooky hayrides and pumpkin picking; andRainbeau Ridgefor playing with animals and savoring local cheeses.

Eat:The Bedford Post’s onsite eateries mean you don’t have to venture far: TryThe Barnfor country classics and a killer brunch, or the lively Bedford 234 where avocado fries, flatbreads, a burger, and wildly good brown butter sugar pie are menu highlights. For fine diners,The Inn at Pound Ridge by Jean-Georgesis just down the road from Bedford and housed in a beautifully restored and now luxe 1800s home that is the ideal spot for special occasions.

ny fall roadtrips list5
Graybarns Inn

8. New Canaan, Connecticut

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 47 miles or 1 hours, 15 minutes by car

This idyllic town is less than 90 minutes from Manhattan and offers everything one might need or want for a long weekend: historic landmarks,fall foliage sightings, adorable B&Bs and upscale boîtes (that you don’t have to wait hours to get into).

Stay:Reserve a room atGraybarns Inn, the rustic-meets-cozy refuge that overlooks the Silvermine River and Guthrie Pond. The property is the kind of place you visit in the fall to relax and unwind in a stunning natural setting.GrayGoods, the carefully curated on-site mercantile, is a place to drop some cash on luxe, artisanal items.

Other stays we love:

Do:BetweenThe Glass House, Grace FarmsandWaveny Park, the area’s a dream for anyone who loves architecture and landscape design.

Eat:There are plenty of places to sit and eat in NC’s adorable downtown, but a standout isSouth End, where comfort food reigns supreme and the cocktails are always on point. The seasonal salads and outrageously good burger atElm Restaurantwill have you making return trips on Metro-North just for the food.

ny fall roadtrips list6
The Time Nyack

9. Nyack, New York

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 2 miles or one hour by car

Nyack is a great home base if you’re looking to explore points north in the Hudson Valley—or you just need the closest possible jaunt outside NYC.

Stay:Check in toHotel Nyackto enjoy the hotel’s trendy, luxe loft-style rooms filled with bold print wallpapers, chandeliers, and other fun design details.The pet-friendly hotelalso boasts a buzzy local food and nightlife scene, which centers around contemporary steakhouse The Grille at Nyack and its aged steaks in a handsome, open-aired indoor space and patio.

Other stays we love:

Do:Just across the river you’ll find theLyndhurst Mansionin Tarrytown, a Gothic Revival mansion with a noteworthy history, and the historic village of Sleepy Hollow, which—naturally—ramps up the spooky spirit every October.

Eat:Head toCommunal Kitchenfor locally sourced bites and great wine or find authentic homestyle Filipino eats atKarenderya.

ny fall roadtrips list7
PORTA

10. Asbury Park, New Jersey

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 57 miles or 1 hours, 15 minutes by car

Asbury Park may be on your radar as a summertime spot, but this funky resort town—and its somewhat gritty past—is having a major resurgence, making it a great year-round destination.

Stay:You’ll want to hang your hat atThe Asbury, which was converted from a former Salvation Army building into a hip beachside hotel and has beautifully designed rooms and cool lounge spaces throughout. It’s also a great place to enjoy one last alfresco cocktail before the weather gets too cold, atSalvation, the rooftop garden bar. During the fall months, you can also score a deal on the fab rooms at the pricey-in-the-summer-but-totally-worth-itAsbury Ocean Club.

Other stays we love:

Do:Catch a show at the legendary dive,The Stone Ponywhere Springstein and Bon Jovi played. Or get acquainted with Asbury’s lively LGBTQ scene with a drag show at Paradise, located at the Empress Hotel.

Eat:Grab lunch atPorta, a wood-fired pizza joint and beer garden (though be forewarned, it turns into a Jersey Shore dance club at night).

fall road trips near nyc asbury park nj
AlizadaStudios/Getty Images

11. Poughkeepsie, New York

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 85 miles or 2 hours by car

Poughkeepsie hasn’t historically been as popular withHudson Valleytravelers—in part due to its size. It feels more like a small city than a cute, river-adjacent town. Recently, an influx of pandemic transplants has influenced new energy, and it’s quickly becoming a favored stop for those exploring the region. We also love it because it’s not as car-dependent, and you can easily access it by train from Grand Central.

Stay:The Hyatt Place Poughkeepsiewins points for clean, contemporary rooms, and budget-friendly rates for those visiting the Hudson Valley during its primo fall season, when prices can be through the roof.

Other stays we love:

Do:Part of what makes the Hudson Valley an intriguing destination is the numerous spots to take in breathtaking views of the Hudson River and the surrounding mountains and greenery. One such spot where you absolutely must stop isThe Walkway Over the Hudson. Exactly as it sounds, it offers visitors the chance to lock arms and walk across a former cantilever and truss railroad crossing that projects over the Hudson River, while exposing some of the area’s most spectacular views. North of Poughkeepsie in Hyde Park, history buffs can see another popular local tourist attraction:Franklin D. Roosevelt’s homeand estate as well as the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library; both are open to the public for a $10 admission fee.

Eat:Essie’s restaurantis consistently rated high by locals and travelers alike; it puts out delicious proteins but also has great options for vegetarians and vegan diners as well. If you visit on a Wednesday, they also serve a special “waffles n’ wedges” menu consisting of regular waffles, chicken and waffles, and potato wedges that will knock your socks off.

scenery
Alex Potemkin/Getty Images

12. The Poconos, Pennsylvania

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 107 miles or 2 hour by car

与森林山峰,波光粼粼的湖泊和郁郁葱葱的瓦尔leys, there’s something truly magical about the Pocono Mountains in northeastern Pennsylvania, especially during the autumn months when leaf-peeping opportunities abound. Oh, and did we mention that all of this natural beauty and adventure lies just two hours away from the city?

Stay:The Poconos area is vast, so you’ll likely want to pick one of the many charming small towns in the area and make that your base for exploring. Stroudsburg is a popular choice for its bustling downtown but if you want to be close the action while enjoying some peace and quiet, beautifulMountain Springs Lake Resortis just the ticket.

Other stays we love:

Do:Outdoor enthusiasts will love hiking, fishing and skiing in the Poconos, while history buffs can explore the area’s museums and sites, including theNo. 9 Mining MuseumandLehigh Gorge Scenic Railway. For families, there are multiple water parks worth exploring such asCamelback LodgeandAquatopia. Whatever you do, make sure you take time to sit back and take in the gorgeous scenery.

Eat:In Stroudsburg, we loveSweet Creams Cafe’shearty sandwiches for lunch andSarah Street Grill’s eclectic menu for dinner.

fall road trips near nyc cat
Kevin Crawford

13. New Hope, Pennslyvania

  • Distance from NYC:approximately 68 miles or 1 hour, 30 minutes by car

In New Hope, you can graba pumpkin spice latteat Starbucks (they’re post-cheugy at this point anyway), which is housed in a historic building and as close to a chain experience as you’ll find in the Delaware riverfront town. The vibrant, eclectic community is otherwise filled with unique craft and artisanal shops, great art, handsome eateries, and pique fall charm.

Stay:An intimate, 12-room boutique hotel with views of the Delaware River, we promiseThe Ghost Light Innisn’t haunted. Instead, the property’s name is influenced by its location, adjacent to the Bucks County Playhouse, and a superstitious reason many theatersleave a light bulb lit on their stages. Rooms here each include their own ghost light, plus textured wood paneled walls, bathrooms with double vanities, and posh beds with nail head headboards.

Other stays we love:

Do:Shopping the compact, charming streets of downtown New Hope will inspire you to come back each season, as will taking in one of the quality shows at the aforementionedBucks County Playhouse. The adorable theater is oozing with charm since it’s housed in a former grist mill. You can take ascenic train ride, explore historic buildings like theParry Mansion,或者得到surroun到惊人的自然ds this town during the fall atSolebury Orchard. And yes, they have all theapple picking, cider, and donuts you have your heart set on. On a nice day, a slow-paced stroll along the Delaware Canal or a short walk over the charming New Hope-Lambertville Bridge (which connectsan equally charming NJ town) is not just recommended, it’s pretty much required.

Eat:The town’sFerry Marketis a place you show up to on an empty stomach. Home to delightful vendors using ingredients straight from local farms, it’s the kind of place where you might find a Peruvian empanada or Venezuelan arepa, macaroons, a vegan butcher, a smorgasbord of meat and cheese, a wine flight, and a beer tasting—all in the same gorgeous space. For a more formal, sit-down meal,Stella’s of New Hopecreates Insta-worthy dishes, and the grub and ambiance atSalt Houseis always a hit. It will perfectly match the comfy cozy fall vibe you’ve got going on in your favorite flannel or leather jacket.



purewow author
Dan Koday

PUREWOW FREELANCE EDITOR

Dan Koday is a travel and lifestyle writer and editor with 15+ years experience creating content for your favorite websites, print publications and brands. As a native to the NYC...
read full bio