The case for limiting car use has never been stronger. Climate change, soaring gas prices, the eternal parking nightmare – the list goes on. Relying on public transport, however, does not mean compromising on mobility. There are many destinations in and around the tri-state area that are easily accessible by bus or train. We have already compiled a listing of car-free summer getaway ideas in New Jersey — and now we’re looking beyond NJ. Read on to learn about some local getaways accessible by public transit in and around the tri-state area.
Beacon, NY
(Photo credit: @beacon_ny_)
How to get there: Take an NJ Transit bus to Port Authority, then hop on the shuttle (or the “S” subway line) to Grand Central Terminal. From there take the Metro North Hudson line. The trip takes about 1.5 hours.
The historic city is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant lifestyle. Right next to the station is Scenic Hudson’s Long Dock Park, where visitors can stroll along the walking path and take in the stunning views of the Hudson River and the mountains along the banks. For more serious hikes, there is the The Mount Beacon Incline Railway trail, which straddles a historic rail line and leads to the top of Mount Beacon. Inside the city, the elegant Victorian main street is dotted with art galleries, delicatessens and craft shops.
If you’re looking to spend the night, Beacon Bed & Breakfast is a super cute and cozy place to spend the night. The Dutchess Inn & Spa is another great spot if you’re looking for something a little less rustic + a more upscale feel.
Cold Spring, New York
How to get there: From Grand Central Terminal, take the Metro North Hudson line. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Plus, it’s on the way back from Beacon if you want to turn this trip into a multi-destination trip.
The historic city is full of historical treasures and natural beauties. There are many small parks and gardens along the river where visitors can relax and take in views of the mighty Hudson. Main Street retains its Victorian charm and is lined with restaurants, boutiques and antique shops. During the summer, the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival takes place in nearby Garrison (5 miles away), with shows six nights a week.
To spend the night, there is cold spring hotel for a scenic + charming experience near great hiking trails. It is also part of a cafe.
Governor’s Island, NY
How to get there: Take PATH to Christopher Street, then hop on Subway Line 1 to South Ferry. From there take the ferry to Governors Island.
The hilly island was used for defense during the American Revolution. Today, visitors can get stunning views of the New York skyline from the coastal fort. The island’s many community parks and gardens provide beautiful trails and spaces for biking, walking and picnicking. Those who want to have the island to themselves and wake up to breathtaking views of Manhattan can even spend the night at Collective Governors Islanda luxury boutique hotel campsite.
Read more: Hackensack Riverkeeper eco-cruises show the power of local advocacy
Greenport, NY
How to get there: Take PATH to 33rd Street. Walk to Penn Station and take the LIRR Ronkonkoma line to Greenport. The trip takes about 3 hours.
The town sits at the North Fork end of Long Island and is famous for its wine scene. But there is much more to do beyond wine tasting. Visitors can browse the many shops in the quaint little town center, visit the beautiful East Marion Lavender Field (less than three miles from downtown), or sample local oysters at casual seafood restaurants, such as Little Creek Oyster Farm.
There are plenty of places to stay in Greenport – but be prepared, it gets expensive here fast. Greenport sound sight is a great option with stunning water views and a private beach. Plus, if you book two nights during the week, you get 20% off, making it a bit more affordable.
Kingston, New York
(Photo credits : @love_kingstonny)
How to get there: From Port Authority, take the Trails bus to Kingston. The trip takes about 2 hours.
Many people use Kingston as a base for exploring the Catskills, but the city itself has a lot to offer. Locals and visitors alike often navigate in terms of downtown, downtown, and downtown, each with different moods and characters. The city center is full of independent shops (see half moon books), artisan bakeries (such as Kingston bread and bar) and galleries. The city center is quieter but still has plenty of restaurants and art studios to explore. Rondout’s downtown National Historic District is dotted with old buildings, wonderful restaurants (like Graziano town center cafe) and a tree-lined waterfront park. Visitors can also learn about the region’s history at Hudson River Maritime Museum and New York Carriage Museum.
B&B Forsyth is a cool place to spend the night and calls itself casual-chic. It even has clever names for the different rooms, like the Amelia which is named after Amelia Earhart and is “light and airy”.
Montauk, NY
How to get there: From Penn Station, take the LIRR train to Montauk. The direct train takes about 2.5 hours.
The Hamptons have a reputation for being a one-percent destination, but the quiet town — once a playground for avant-garde artists — truly has something for everyone. It’s relaxing to hike the trails of Montauk Point State Park and enjoy the views of the Atlantic Ocean, or kayak in the calm waters of Lake Montauk. Kirk Park Beach, with its soft white sand, is within walking distance of downtown. For a cultural and culinary experience, you can discover the many old and new sites of the city. galleriesvisit the vineyards of the region or attend a private dinner led by local chefs.
Hotels can also be quite expensive in this area, especially during the summer – Airbnb is usually a more economical option here. Although if you’re willing to splurge, there are a few spectacular waterfront hotels.
See more: Hoboken Terminal is getting revitalized + Other big Hoboken news this week
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
How to get there: Take PATH to New York Penn Station. From there, take the Amtrak train to Philadelphia.
Philadelphia is just a train ride from North Jersey and has plenty of attractions. Philadelphia’s historic Old City is full of notable landmarks from early American history: Elfreth’s Alley, Independence Hall, Liberty Bell, and more. For museums, Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (PAFA) both feature world-class collections. For more leisurely pursuits, take a stroll through downtown/Chinatown and sample some of the best restaurants in the country. A great option is Zahava modern Israeli restaurant awarded by James Beard.
There are, of course, plenty of chain hotels to stay in Philadelphia — or you could crash in an Airbnb apartment to feel more like you live locally.
Sleepy Hollow, NY
(Photo credits : @visitsleepyhollow)
How to get there: From Grand Central Terminal, take the Metro North Hudson line. The journey takes approximately 55 minutes.
The colonial-era city is the setting for classic history The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, and visitors love seeing the many city landmarks featured in the book, such as Sleepy Hollow Cemetery and the Dutch Reformed Church. Beyond these there are many beautiful historic homes, such as Philipsburg Mansion, which once belonged to one of the region’s largest slave owners and now functions as a museum on the history of slavery. For natural beauty, visitors can head to the Rockefeller Park Preserve and enjoy the views of hills, valleys, and pastorals.
For an incredibly unique place to sleep, Chateau Hotel & Spa is located near Tarrytown. Yes, it’s a castle – and it’s steeped in history. This is a great place for all history buffs and anyone who has always wanted to sleep in a castle.
Woodstock, NY
How to get there: From Port Authority, take the Trailways bus to Woodstock. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Famous for the Woodstock festival (though the event actually took place in nearby Bethel), the town has retained its hippie vibe and artsy side. The main street of Tinker Street is lined with galleries, as well as architectural gems that remind visitors of Woodstock’s rich history as an artists’ paradise. The weekend flea market attracts artisans from all over the region. In summer time, the Mavericks Concerts series, which has performances every week, features musicians from all genres. The Woodstock Inn on the Millstream is a super cool place for those looking to crash. It’s quaint, secluded, connected with nature, and full of charm.
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