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20 Best Day Trips in the U.S.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, one of the best things to do in a city is escape for a while. And sometimes all you need is a day to recharge, which is why we’ve selected 20 outstanding trips that only take an hour or two from the country’s major cities. Beautiful islands, stunning state parks, and charming towns await you outside the city limits, so get ready to hop in the car or catch a train to these places that offer a welcome change of scenery.

by Christina Valhouli

Tarrytown and Sleepy Hollow

Near: New York City

Sleepy Hollow may be familiar to fans of the short story, but there's more to this town than that. Fans of Washington Irving's work (and the TV show) should pay a visit to his home, Sunnyside , as well as Sleepy Hollow Cemetery , where the Headless Horseman chased Ichabod Crane. For something less spooky, carve out time to visit the area's historic mansions, such as the Rockefeller estate, Kykuit , and Tarrytown's  Lyndhurst , once owned by a railroad baron. Stop for a meal at Blue Hill at Stone Barns , a celebrated restaurant located on a working farm.

Insider Tip:  Irving is famous for his iconic literary characters—including Brom Bones, Ichabod Crane, and Rip Van Winkle—but few people know he was also the U.S. Ambassador to Spain from 1842–1846.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Hudson Valley Guide

Starved Rock State Park

Near: Chicago

Beat Chicago's heat with a visit to Starved Rock State Park , located about two hours southwest of the city. The park, which was once home to Native Americans, is a National Historic Landmark filled with canyons, waterfalls, and sandstone bluffs boasting views of the Illinois River. In addition, visitors can spend the day exploring 13 miles of hiking trails. Once you've worked up an appetite, stop for lunch at the Starved Rock Lodge . During the winter, it's a popular place to spot bald eagles.

Insider Tip: On the way back to Chicago, stop by two wineries near Starved Rock, August Hill and Illinois River .

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Chicago Guide

Near: Boston

History buffs, fans of literature, and outdoorsmen will all find something to love in Concord. This small town is famous for its role during the American Revolution (Paul Revere rode through Concord to warn the militia that the British were coming) and is the hometown of literary heroes. Emerson, Thoreau, Alcott, and Hawthorne all lived here, and visitors can stop by Orchard House , the Alcott family home, or Wayside, where Hawthorne once lived. Head to Walden Pond to see where Thoreau spent nearly two years of his life, and spend an afternoon hiking or canoeing. Treat yourself to a farm-to-table meal at Bondir Concord .

Insider Tip: In 1849, horticulturist Ephraim Bull bred the Concord grape at his home on 491 Lexington Avenue, where the original vine is still growing.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Boston Guide

Wilmington, Delaware

Near: Philadelphia

Wilmington is known for its beautiful architecture and abundance of museums, as well as being a family-friendly area. Head to the Brandywine Zoo , the only one in the state, or spend some time at the Delaware Children's Museum , which will appeal to toddlers and preteens. For a taste of the gilded life, visit Nemours Mansion and Gardens , a Du Pont family home spread over 300 acres (reservations are essential).

Insider Tip: Love factory tours? Herr's Snack Factory in nearby Nottingham, Pennsylvania offers free tours. Visitors can learn the ins and outs of making pretzels and tortilla chips.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Wilmington Guide

Middleburg, Virginia

Near: Washington, D.C.

Middleburg is known as the epicenter of Virginia's horse country and is a popular retreat for D.C. power brokers. Fox hunts and polo matches are the big social events here, but there's also plenty of antique shopping to be done as well. The National Sporting Library & Museum is located here, and there's no shortage of upscale, British and French inspired gastropubs. Love wine? The area is home to about 30 producers.

Insider Tip: The oldest building in town is the The Red Fox Inn & Tavern , which was built in 1728 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Middleburg Guide

Near: San Francisco

Most people who visit California wine country head to Napa or Sonoma, but for a different twist on the experience, explore Calistoga. This town is the most laid-back in the region, and is known for its hot springs and Victorian architecture as well as its wine. Dr. Wilkinson's is one of the original spas and offers mud baths in a no-frills setting; go for “the works,” which includes a soak in a mud tub, massage, and facial. Don't miss Chateau Montelena , or Clos Pegase winery, which was designed by Michael Graves and features large-scale sculptures dotted around its property.

Insider Tip: En route to Calistoga, stop at Gott's Roadside, whose menu includes green chile cheeseburgers and Ahi tuna burgers. There's also an impressive wine list.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Calistoga Guide

Santa Barbara

Near : Los Angeles

There's a good reason some of the world’s richest people live in Santa Barbara, replete with beautiful beaches, perfect Mediterranean weather, wineries, art galleries, and gourmet restaurants. Pop into the Santa Barbara Museum of Art before hitting a few tasting rooms on the Urban Wine Trail, all located within a few blocks of each other. Unwind at the Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden, or soak up at the sun at the beach.

Insider Tip: Julienne , in the heart of downtown, serves farm-to-table cuisine (dinner only) in a low-key setting.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Santa Barbara Guide

Near: San Diego

Although it can be hard to tear yourself away from San Diego, it's worth it to take a short drive to Carlsbad, which is famous for its natural springs and world-class golf. For those traveling with children, Carlsbad means one thing: LEGOLAND California . Carlsbad also offers a superb five-mile stretch of beach, and top attractions include the SEA LIFE Aquarium and the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, which was once a cattle farm and now offers four miles of hiking trails that wind past hand-crafted adobe buildings.

Insider Tip: Mineral water was found here in 1882 by Capt. John Frazier, when he was drilling a well for his farm. The Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa , located one block from the beach, is home to Frazier's original drilling site and has a small day spa.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Carlsbad Guide

Whidbey Island

Near: Seattle

For fresh air and even fresher seafood, hop on a ferry to Whidbey Island. Only 45 miles long, the island offers gorgeous natural scenery, with beaches, forests, bluffs, and farms. Famous for its museels, Whidbey is also home to gourmet restaurants as well as art galleries and independent boutiques. Drive around the island or stroll along the beach to see the best Whidbey has to offer.

Insider Tip: Coupeville has the largest mussel farm in America and is also home to Greenbank Farm , the largest producer of loganberries.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Whidbey Island

Near: Portland, OR

Located just 30 miles from Portland, Dundee is the epicenter of Oregon's wine country in the Willamette Valley. The area is famous for its Pinot Noir, and visitors can explore more than 30 wineries in a compact area; some of the best-known wineries here include Cameron , Argyle , and Erath . Dundee is also home to artisanal cheese companies and a microdistillery. You'll find many scenic hiking and biking trails here, perfect for burning off all that wine and cheese.

Insider Tip: Sokol Blosser Vineyard offers a tour of the property on a 50% bio-diesel-powered ATV.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Dundee Guide

Near: Houston

Just an hour from Houston, the barrier island of Galveston makes an ideal beach getaway. Before laying out your towel, explore the town by renting a bicycle or hopping aboard a Duck Tour . Seafood is the star attraction at any restaurant, so get your fill of lobster tacos, crab cakes, and shrimp po'boys. Kids will be amused by the massive Pleasure Pier , which has carnival games and a roller coaster, as well as the Schlitterbahn water park. Don't miss the town's historic homes, such as Moody Mansion  and  Bishop's Palace .

Insider Tip: Apart from its beaches, Galveston is also known for its beautifully preserved Victorian homes.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Houston and Galveston Guide

Bahia Honda State Park

Near: Miami

Located about 126 miles from Miami, Bahia Honda State Park makes for a fun drive along US 1. The park offers some of the best snorkeling in Florida, and lucky visitors might spot a barracuda or stingrays on a guided tour. In addition to its beaches, this 524-acre park boasts sand dunes, mangroves, and lagoons. Visitors can happily spend the day swimming in the warm waters, fishing, or paddling out in a kayak.

Insider Tip: The beach here was named the #1 beach in America by “Dr. Beach” in 1992.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Miami Guide

St. Francisville

Near: New Orleans

To get your fill of graceful antebellum homes and antique shopping, head to St. Francisville. This small town has seven plantation homes that can be toured, including Myrtles Plantation , which is rumored to be haunted, and Greenwood Plantation , built in 1830. Visitors can also spend their time visiting public gardens, hiking, biking, or birdwatching.

Insider Tip: A short drive away is the Angola Louisiana State Penitentiary Museum , which was built on the site of a former plantation home and was the nation's largest maximum-security facility.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's St. Francisville Guide

Near: Phoenix

It's fair to say that Sedona is one of the most beautiful spots in America. This town is famous for its red rocks, mesas, and canyons, so sunset is one of the best times of day to appreciate its majesty. Don't miss Slide Rock State Park, which has a 50-foot natural water slide carved into its riverbed. Sedona is also a great spot for golf, hiking, and spas. In addition, Sedona's boutiques offer plenty of Native American-inspired jewelry and accessories.

Insider Tip: Some people believe that Sedona has a unique energy, which is called a vortex.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Sedona Guide

Death Valley National Park

Near: Las Vegas

Although the drive to Death Valley can be a little far from Las Vegas, it is well worth the 120-mile journey to see the lowest, driest place in North America. Bring plenty of water with you and be prepared for the otherworldly desert landscape, which includes Joshua trees, sand dunes, and eerie silence. Be sure to visit Badwater Basin, which is often the hottest place in the U.S. If you have time, take a scenic drive past Devil's Golf Course and Zabriskie Point.

Insider Tip: Explore the tiny Borax Museum , which is located in an old miners' boardinghouse at the Ranch at Furnace Creek, to learn about this mineral and its importance in the valley.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Las Vegas Guide

Kiawah Island

Near: Charleston

This barrier island is just 25 miles south of Charleston, and offers 10 miles of beaches, 10,000 acres of pine forests, marshes, and magnolia trees. This privately owned island makes for a great beach escape, but also offers plenty of opportunities for tennis and golf; there are five championship golf courses here, and The Ocean Course has hosted the Ryder Cup. To enjoy the natural surroundings, take a kayak tour through the salt marshes; lucky visitors might spot alligators, turtles, and snakes.

Insider Tip: Kiawah is also home to a small bobcat population. Their preferred habitat is located near the marsh edges and secondary sand dunes.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Charleston Guide

Rocky Mountain National Park

Near: Denver

A trip to this national park could result in a moose, elk, or bighorn sheep sighting. Rocky Mountain National Park is just an hour and a half from Denver, and offers a picture-perfect landscape of snowcapped peaks, grassy meadows, and pine forests. Visitors can spend the day hiking (there are more than 355 miles of trails), biking, or horseback riding.

Insider Tip: En route to Denver, stop at Snowy Peaks Winery and Tasting Room , which offers local wines and artisanal foods such as cheese, chocolates, and fruit ciders.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Denver Guide

Narragansett

Near: Providence, RI

A popular weekend escape for locals is Narragansett, but it also makes an ideal day trip to beat the heat. The beach is the main attraction here, and it's one of New England's top surfing destinations. Scarborough State Beach is a popular surfing spot, while Roger W. Wheeler State Beach has calmer waters that appeal to families. Rent a bike or kayak to explore the town, or sign up for a fishing trip to catch your dinner.

Insider Tip: The Towers here were designed by the famed architects McKim, Mead & White and landscaped by Fredrick Olmstead. Today the Towers host cultural performances.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Providence Guide

Anna Maria Island

Near: Tampa

This tiny island, reachable via a causeway from Breadenton (45 miles south of Tampa), offers a slice of old-school Florida. There are no high-rises or chain stores on Anna Maria Island; instead, visitors will find a low-key way of life and pristine beaches. The further north you travel along the seven-mile-long island, the quieter it becomes. Fishing off the Rod and Reel pier is also popular, but small mackerel can be caught by just wading into the ocean.

Insider Tip: Some of the island's best restaurants include the Sign of the Mermaid and Beach Bistro .

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Tampa Guide

Near: Atlanta

This college town is famous for its musical heritage (REM, B-52's), but offers much more than that. Seventy miles from Atlanta, Athens features picture-perfect antebellum mansions, a Victorian-era downtown, and a hot culinary scene. For relaxation, don't miss the State Botanical Garden of Georgia , as well as the recently expanded Georgia Museum of Art . Despite its growth, Athens is still a breeding ground for rock groups and offers plenty of live music venues and microbreweries.

Insider Tip: Both REM and the B-52's got their start at the 40 Watt Club , which still sits in downtown.

PLAN YOUR TRIP : Visit Fodor's Atlanta Guide

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The Best Days to Book a Flight and When to Fly

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Believing there’s just one optimal day a week to save on flights — and that day is Tuesday — is the stuff of legends. And like all good legends, there is some truth to it … but it’s not the whole story.

The reality is that flight prices change constantly and at all hours of the day, adjusting to real-time demand. Airlines don’t restock on the same day every week like a grocery store, so you won’t find deals by waiting until Tuesdays to book. However, you might find some modest savings if you’re willing to fly on Saturdays or midweek, when there’s less demand than usual.

Here’s what the data shows on the best days to book a flight and when to fly.

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Best day to book a flight

No single day of the week is best to book a flight. You can find deals any day of the week since flight prices fluctuate with demand.

Airlines might offer sales, increase the number of seats on a route or even lower prices to match a competitor, so there’s no actual pattern in what day of the week has the best deals.

Best day to fly

Hopper — a travel booking app — collected flight booking data from October 2023 through April 1, 2024 for May 2024 departures. Here are the findings about the best day to fly.

Tuesday and Friday flights can help you avoid the rush earlier in the week

Sundays and Mondays are the most expensive days to depart for domestic trips. If you can’t fly on the cheapest days, flying on Tuesdays or Fridays might also be a good option. The average airfare is about 12% lower than peak Sunday prices on these days.

Mondays can still be a relatively expensive day to fly domestically. By departing on Monday instead of Sunday, you can expect to save only about $9, or about 3%.

Wednesdays and Saturdays are the cheapest day to fly internationally

Meanwhile, international flyers would also be wise to leave on Wednesdays or Saturdays, usually the cheapest days to depart for an international trip. That said, there isn’t a huge difference in price across the days of the week for most international routes.

Hopper estimates that leaving on a Wednesday for Europe will only save you about 10% compared to the most expensive day (Friday).

Fly on the holidays (or as far from it as possible)

Holidays are an entirely different beast, no matter whether it’s the Fourth of July or Labor Day. There are generally more people flying in the days around a holiday, so there are fewer airplane seats available and higher prices.

To get the best deal, book as early as possible. Because many airlines have flexible cancellation policies, it doesn’t hurt to lock in a decent rate ahead of time and rebook if the flight price drops in the months after. According to Google Flights’ 2023 insights, the best time to book a mid-December holiday flight is 71 days before departure.

In many cases, the best day to fly will be further out from the holiday. If the holiday falls on a Monday, flying the Tuesday before will likely be cheaper than flying the Friday before. You can also look at flying on the holiday itself. For example, flying on Christmas Day or Thanksgiving Day is usually much more affordable than flying on the days before or after.

Here are our recommendations for when to fly around some of the major holidays based on recent checkpoint data from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA):

The best days to fly around Memorial Day .

The best days to fly around Fourth of July .

The best days to fly around Labor Day .

The best days to fly around Thanksgiving .

The best days to fly around Christmas .

The best days to fly around the winter holidays .

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Tips to find cheap flights any day of the week

Book one to three months in advance.

Even though no day of the week consistently has cheaper flights, there is a time period during which you should book before prices go up.

Going, a flight deals aggregator, recommends booking domestic flights one to three months in advance to avoid any price surges in the weeks leading up to the departure date. Last-minute flight deals aren’t super common and you risk not getting a seat at all because your desired flight might ultimately sell out. If you’re flying internationally, you’ll want to look two to eight months out.

It doesn’t hurt to look at flight prices before the ideal booking window. Google Flights, for example, sometimes shows in the search results when it expects prices to be the lowest based on historical data for your route.

Set a price alert

Let a computer program do the work for you. Instead of checking flight prices every day, set a price alert on the travel search engine of your choice — whether it’s Google Flights , Hopper, Skyscanner or Kayak . They’ll send you an email when they see the price drop.

Rebook if you find a cheaper price

Most airlines have adopted more flexible change and cancellation policies , which make it easier to rebook your flight and save money.

First, you’ll have to make sure that the original flight you booked will not have change or cancellation fees. For most airlines, that applies to most main cabin and premium class tickets on domestic flights and some short-haul international flights. You usually cannot change or cancel basic economy tickets for free.

If you can cancel or change without fees, set a price alert. When the price drops, you can cancel your flight and rebook (on the same airline or a different one) to get the cheaper price. Be aware that you might only get a travel voucher or credit if you cancel, so you should only use the option if you are fairly confident you will fly with the original airline again within one year.

Be flexible with destination, airport and dates

The golden rule of cheap travel remains: Be flexible . Use Google Flights to see if there are cheaper places to go by leaving the destination field blank when you search. Check nearby airports if you’re set on a destination and use the calendar views to find lower prices on different dates. Maybe embrace a long layover as a chance to see another city on your trip.

After all, the best day to book a flight and the best day to fly is when it’s cheapest, and that could vary depending on when and where you are going.

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1. Statue of Lenin

The 27 Absolute Best Day Trips from NYC in 2024

If you are looking for day trips from NYC, then we’ve got you covered! You can find anything from city breaks to shopping trips. Thanks to the fact that New York City is located in a convenient region, you have many choices when it comes to getaways from NYC!

You'll also love this:

• FREE TOOL: Which Day Trip from New York is the Best?
• The 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York
• The 9 Road Trips from New York

So if your schedule allows, you should definitely take a day trip from New York City. You have a wide choice of destinations and a variety of ways to get there. I’ve tried many guided tours (you’ll only find the best guided day trips on my list), I’ve traveled by train, by rental car, and even in an RV.

Table of Contents

27 Amazing Day Trips from New York

Here are my personal recommendations if you’re looking for the best weekend getaways and day trips from New York City!

Day Trip from NYC to Boston

This day trip to Boston takes you through one of Americas most interesting historical cities. Everything from architecture to monuments and historically significant spots make this tour a great choice for all history lovers. Boston is a beautiful city and a nice contrast to NYC, making it the perfect getaway for a day!

Distance: 220 Miles (4 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Boston, don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Boston on your day trip from New York

• stroll along Charles River Esplanade
• explore the famed Massachusetts Institute of Technology
• visit the famous Fenway Park ( this is the best tour )
• enjoy a coffee in Boston Common (I love this park!)
• enjoy a historical adventure and travel back in time to 1773 to be part of the famous Boston Tea Party

Places To See in Boston

• Museum of African American History
• New England Aquarium (perfect for families!)
• Museum of Fine Art
• Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

Helpful links

If you looking for an accommodation check our this website and if you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

Day Trip from New York to Washington D.C.

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City. This guided bus tour starts at the Gray Line Visitors Center in Manhattan and the bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill. With so many things to learn and see this is one of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC.

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Washington D.C., don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Washington D.C. on your day trip from New York

• check out the Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour (500+ reviews!)
• Stroll through the neighborhood of Georgetown
• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
• visit the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial

Places To See in Washington D.C.

• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• National Mall
• United States Capitol
• Washington National Cathedral
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Day Trip from NYC to Philadelphia

Another worthwhile place to visit that’s close to NYC is Philadelphia. At just an hour and a half by train, it’s close enough that many Philadelphians commute to New York City for work daily. Though they are close, these two cities couldn’t have different ambiances; where New York is mainly made from concrete and is a large city, Philly has more green spaces and gives more of a small-town vibe.  

The main draw to this city is its importance in American history, which is evident in many areas of the city – especially the Old City district, which is a small section of the downtown area. Yet, Philadelphia is also home to more than historical landmarks, as you’ll also find exceptional art museums, Chinatown, a primarily Italian neighborhood in South Philly, and lots of gray skyscrapers mixed with industrial warehouses in the downtown section.  

Distance: 100 Miles (2 hours by car)

If you decide to take a day trip to Philadelphia, don’t forget to check out these sights:

Things to do in Philadelphia on your day trip from New York

• Hop over to Lancaster and take a horse-drawn buggy ride through Amish farm country.
• Visit Independence Hall, where the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence.
• Tour the Museum of the American Revolution or the Benjamin Franklin Museum.
• Walk down Elfreth’s Alley. This road is America’s first residential street, dating back to 1702, and is home to many art galleries, shops, and restaurants today.  
• View the art collections at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts or the Philadelphia Museum of Art.  

Places To See in Philadelphia

• The Liberty Bell
• Betsy Ross House
• Franklin Square
• The Rocky Statue and the Rocky steps
• Eastern State Penitentiary

Want to see both?

You could also combine visiting these two amazing cities with this Private Washington & Philadelphia Tour in 1 Day .

Check Availability

Weekend getaway to Philadelphia & Amish Country

This tour combines several destinations at once: you will visit the most important sights of D.C. and Philadelphia and afterwards the interesting Amish Country. Departure is at the Gray Line Visitors Center.

This is what you can expect on this guided day trip from New York

• Philadelphia: Visit Constitution Hall and Independence Square
• Philadelphia: See the world-famous Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
• Philadelphia: Run up the “Rocky Steps”
• Washington D.C.: visit National Mall and Lincoln Memorial
• Take an authentic Amish buggy ride and visit a traditional market

Day Trips from NYC to Niagara Falls

If you are in New York and are thinking about planning a day trip, then I can recommend a trip to Niagara Falls. I myself have been to Niagara Falls several times from New York and was always impressed by this natural spectacle.

My tip: These are the 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York .

Day Trip from NYC to Albany

Albany is New York’s capital city and is not just the oldest city in the state, but it’s one of the oldest in the nation. English immigrants took control of Albany, NY, in 1664 and named it after the Duke of Albany. By the early 1800s, the city was the 10th largest in the country, which is a title that San Jose, CA, took. The area’s growth was fueled by the creation of the Erie Canal and the railroad, and it continued to serve as a vital transportation hub until the early 1900s.

Hence, as you can see, this area has an extensive history, and there are many local attractions that help provide excellent learning experiences for newbies. Today, this capital city and college town is home to about 100,000 people and has something for everyone.

Distance: 150 Miles (2,5 hours by car) 

Things to do in Albany on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy local flavors such as Chicken Joe’s, Pint-Sized, and Madison Pour House.  
• Stroll through the Albany Institute of Art & History.
• Ride a bike at the historic Washington Park.
• See a show at the Capital Repertory Theater.
• Hike Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

Places to see in Albany on your day trip from New York.

• John Boyd Thacher State Park
• The Capitol Building
• Empire State Plaza
• Schuyler Mansion
• Corning Tower Observation Deck

If you want to rent a car in New York, I recommend this site .

Day Trip from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is a 5,067-acre park that’s located just one hour away from New York City. It’s home to many sights such as Bear Mountain, Dunderberg Mountain, West Mountain, and the Iona Island Bird Sanctuary. This is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from city life for a day and enjoy nature and the outdoors instead.

Here you’ll enjoy activities such as swimming, hiking, boating, biking, fishing, and bird watching. You’ll find many state-of-the-art recreational facilities, including a swimming pool, playfield, biking and hiking trails, fishing access, the Trailside Museum and Zoo, and much more. This is a great place to go sledding, ice skating, or cross-country skiing in the winter.

Distance: 50 Miles (1 hour by car)

Day Trip from NYC to the Hamptons

A really great day trip is this trip to the famous Hamptons on Long Island. We have already done this tour and were thrilled. What is so great about this day trip to the Hamptons? You experience a completely different side of New York and can go shopping in the Tangier Outlets!

Which Road Trip or Day Trip from New York is the Best?

Check out my free road trip advisor that will help you choose from over 30 road trips and day trips to suit your needs!

Day Trip from NYC to Rockaway Beach

Located just over 20 miles from Manhattan, you’ll find Rockaway Beach tucked away in Queens. Though it’s known as Rockaway Beach, this destination encompasses several beaches between 3rd Street and 153rd Street. It is renowned for being the best beach destination close to New York City, so it merits the hour-long subway ride from downtown Manhattan.

If you visit this area in the high season from the end of May through Labor Day, then you can expect to find many surfers, swimmers, and sunbathers enjoying the water and sun. While it’s most popular in the summer, Rockaway Beach makes for a refreshing place to visit any time of the year.

Distance: 25 Miles (1 hour by car | 1,5 hour by subway lines A S to “Beach 105 St”)

Things To Do at Rockaway Beach

• Take in the invigorating ocean smells as you walk along the sandy beaches.  
• Stop for a drink or snacks at one of the numerous food stands or casual eateries on the Beach Boardwalk.  
• Go on an expedition and explore some abandoned buildings.
• Tan and swim at the Rockaway Beach Boardwalk.

Places To See at Rockaway Beach

• Jacob Riis Park
• Rockaway Community Park
• Bayswater Park

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the Finger Lakes

New York’s Finger Lakes region spans an area that encompasses 11 lakes in an area that was once covered by glaciers. In addition to the lakes, this region is also home to many natural pools, gorges, waterfalls, wineries, and state parks. The two most popular lakes are the deepest and largest: Cayuga Lake is 435 feet deep and is in Ithaca, while Seneca Lake is 618 feet deep and is found in the Watkins Glen State Park.

Many consider this the most underrated part of New York and makes for a great day trip away from New York City. It’s perfect for nearly everyone as the region has plenty of things to see and do.

Distance: 260 Miles (5 hours by car)

Things to do in the Finger Lakes Region on your day trip from New York

• Go on a wine tasting tour.  
• Take in a game at NBT Bank Stadium.
• Enjoy dinner and sunset on a boat cruise.

Places To See on your Day Trip from New York

• Watkins Glen State Park (the trail is amazing!)
• Robert Treman State Park
• Rosamond Gifford Zoo
• Corning Museum of Glass

Day Trip from NYC to Baltimore

Baltimore is the capital of the US state of Maryland with a long and important history. It is somewhat comparable to Boston and yet it has its own charm.

During my roadtrip along the east coast of the USA, Baltimore landed on my itinerary for the first time. Due to its location by the ocean, it has its very own charm and is especially interesting for those who already know Boston and Washington. From New York you can reach Baltimore in about 3 to 4 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Distance: 200 Miles (3 – 4 hours by car) 

If you decide to visit Baltimore, here are some things to see and do:

Things to do in Baltimore on your day trip from New York

• Do a craft-beer brewery tour or whiskey tasting tour (Baltimore is famous for both!)
• Enjoy beautiful river views at the Inner Harbor …
• … or from high above when visiting Top of the World Observation Level
• Take photos of Historic Ships in Baltimore

Places To See

• National Aquarium
• Reginald F. Lewis Museum
• Port Discovery Children’s Museum
• Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine

Day Trip from NYC to Cold Spring in the Hudson Valley

Cold Spring is renowned for being one of the best-preserved towns from the 19th Century and is just a 90-minute train ride from New York City. Once here, you’re greeted by a charming country village that was once a picturesque historic center created along the banks of the Hudson River.

Visitors enjoy spending the day in Cold Spring because the small downtown area is lined with antique stores, boutiques, and restaurants. During the summer, it’s common to find residents lining the streets enjoying coffee at one of the numerous sidewalk cafes or enjoying drinks and live music at one of many riverfront restaurants with an outdoor patio. Yet, this area is also home to many parks and hiking and biking trails.

Distance: 65 Miles (1,5 hour by car)

Things to do in Cold Spring on your Day Trip from New York

• In the fall, sign up for a foliage cruise.
• In the summer, go paddleboarding, boating, kayaking, and more.
• Tour the Boscobel House and Gardens.
• Hudson Highlands State Park
• Bannerman Castle
• Little Stony Point

Shopping Day Trip to the American Dream Mall

Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall. After many years of waiting and constant delays, the massive shopping and entertainment complex are already open.

The American Dream complex is much more than just a mall. Besides hundreds of shops, you will also find an unbelievable number of entertainment facilities here. As a matter of fact, the complex is almost split evenly amongst shopping and entertainment.

Day Trip from NYC to Mohonk Preserve

Located in the town of New Paltz, New York, you’ll find a private 8,000-acre nature preserve that’s highly popular among tourists and residents alike. The Mohonk Preserve is located on the slopes of the Shawangunk Mountains, which are part of the Appalachians. At just over 90-miles from New York City, Mohonk Preserve is close and well worth the visit.

Here you’ll find a diverse environment of cliffs, ponds, streams, and old forests. The Mohonk Preserve is home to over 70 miles of carriage road and nearly 40 miles of trailers for skiing, horseback riding, hiking, and biking.

Distance: 90 Miles (2 hours by car)

Things to do in Mohonk Preserve on your day trip from New York

• Hike one of the many trails and watch for various species of the over 1,400 animal and plant varieties that call the preserve home.  
• Follow the Lost City Loop Trail.
• Explore Split Rock swimming hole
• Mohonk Mountain House
• Labyrinth Trail
• Skytop Tower

Day Trip from NYC to New Haven

New Haven is a quaint community located in Connecticut in the Long Island Sound and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from NYC for a day. In fact, New Haven is only about two hours from Manhattan, so the trip is relatively easy and painless. And the best part is that this area has a lot to offer! From imaginative art and delicious cuisine to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone.

You’ll appreciate that New Haven offers a much calmer feeling than that of the hustle and bustle found in New York City.

Distance: 80 Miles (2 hours by car)

If you decide to visit New Haven, here are some things to see and do:

Things to do in New Haven on your day trip from New York

• Tour the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History.
• Ride the carousel at Lighthouse Point Park.
• Enjoy a show at Shubert Theater.
• Yale University
• East Rock Park
• Five Mile Point Light

Day Trip from NYC to Hamilton Township

Hamilton Township is the 9th largest town in New Jersey, but the area is comfortably spread out over 40 square miles. This region is home to more than 64 state parks, playgrounds, and acres of preserved land. Within just one hour of NYC, Hamilton is a great place to take a day trip.

Hamilton, New Jersey, is fun for anyone looking to visit historical parks or attend local community events such as the yearly Oktoberfest. This town enjoys a bustling and local economy with large retail centers and small retail shops alike; Hamilton is one town that caters to just about everyone’s wallet.

Distance: 60 Miles (1,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Hamilton Township on your day trip from New York

• Explore the Sayan House and Gardens.  
• Take a ride on the New Hope Railroad.
• Spend an hour or two meandering around the Art Museum at Princeton University.

Places To See in Hamilton Township

• Grounds for Sculpture
• Shaky Bridge
• Tulpehaking Nature Center

Day Trip from NYC to The Palisades

The Palisades is located in Bergen County and overlooks the Hudson River. The park is roughly 12 miles long, covers 2,500 acres, and is a half-mile wide. Inside this park, you’ll find over 30 miles of ski and hiking trails, boat launching ramps, a scenic overlook, and riverside drive, waterfront picnic areas, historic sites, and much more.

The Palisades Interstate Park is a National Historical and National Natural Landmark, so this is one place that should be on your bucket list!

Distance: 16 Miles (1/2 to 1 hour by car | 40 minutes by train)

Things to do in the Palisades on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy the views at the State Line Lookout.
• Take a tour of the Kearney House.
• Hike through the Closter Nature Center.
• Alpine Lookout
• Women’s Federation Monument
• Untermyer Gardens

Day Trip from NYC to Phoenicia

Phoenicia, New York, is a hidden gem located in the beautiful Hudson Valley. This Catskills town is an off-the-beaten-path and home to a collection of natural attractions and acclaimed dining establishments. Located just two and a half hours from New York City, this area has more than enough corners to explore during a day trip.

Between the close proximity to Manhattan and gorgeous scenery, this is a popular area in the summer months. Yet, Phoenicia is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, as there are always activities such as shopping, dining, and exploring the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains.

Distance: 130 Miles (2 – 2,5 hours by car)

Things to do in Phoenicia on your day trip from New York

• Enjoy a meal at the Phoenicia Diner.  
• Tube down the Esopus.
• Take a hike through the Mount Tobias forest.

Places To See in Phoenicia

• World’s largest kaleidoscope
• Catskills scenic drive
• Downtown Phoenicia

Shopping Day Trip to the Woodbury Common Outlet

Less than 1 hour from Manhattan you will find the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. With over 220 designer stores like Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet, Nike Factory Store, Polo Ralph Lauren, Salvatore Ferragamo, Timberland and more, this is definitely the place to go on a shooping spree. You will leave from the Port Authority Bus Terminal (42nd Street at 8th Avenue) and take the bus for a swift ride there and back.

Distance: 55 Miles (1 hour by car / by bus)

Day Trip from NYC to Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is known by many as the “Queen City of the Hudson,” as it is located on the banks of the Hudson River in the scenic Hudson Valley. This area was established during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, but today it’s a bustling college town that’s also popular with tourists.

Located just an hour and forty-five minutes from NYC, Poughkeepsie is the perfect place for anyone looking to enjoy historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and fine dining spots. Additionally, the area is home to 22 parks, so there are lots of green spaces to spend the day.

Distance: 85 Miles (2 hours by car)

Things to do in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York

• Experience the walkway over the Hudson River.
• Enjoy dinner at one of the local restaurants before heading to the Bardavon Opera House to enjoy a show.  
• Take a tour of Samuel Morse Locust Grove Estate.

Places to see in Poughkeepsie on your day trip from New York

• Historic Huguenot Street
• Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center
• Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum

Day Trip from NYC to Sleepy Hollow

Sleepy Hollow is situated just 30 miles north of New York City and makes for a great day trip away from the stress of the city. This famed town inspired one of America’s most famous books, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” by Washington Irving. Located in the gorgeous Hudson Valley in Westchester County, this is one of the nation’s cutest towns and makes for an unforgettable experience.

This is a great destination for anyone looking to take in some nature, view historical sites, or even go on a ghost tour. After all, Sleepy Hollow is known as one of the most haunted towns in America, with legends dating back to the original Dutch settlement in the 1600s!

Distance: 35 Miles (1 hour by car) 

Things to do in Sleepy Hollow on your day trip from New York

• Take photos at the Headless Horseman’s Bridge.
• Visit the Dutch Reform Church.
• Experience history at Philipsburg Manor.

Places To See in Sleepy Hollow

• Headless Horseman statue
• Sunnyside Estate
• Kykuit – Former Rockefeller home

Day Trip from NYC to Ithaca

Ithaca is the largest city found in New York’s Finger Lakes region. This is a lovely town and is an excellent place to visit with many things to do. Set along the southern end of Cayuga Lake, this location is famed as the home of Cornell University, countless gorges, and more than 150 waterfalls.

Though Ithaca is home to a sizable portion of college students and the city conveys more of a youthful feel, it’s also steeped in history and full of fascinating historic sites and buildings. This is an excellent destination for outdoor activities as it’s home to a plethora of state parks, but it’s also a great place to relax, shop, and dine.

Distance: 230 Miles (4 hours by car) 

Things to do in Ithaca on your day trip from New York

• Explore the city, and don’t be afraid to try local flavors such as Gimme Coffee, One Ring Donuts, and the Ithaca Farmers Market.  
• “Ithaca is gorges,” so be sure to take a hike at one of the many state parks.  
• Enjoy your evening hours at Firelight Campfire Lounge.

Places To See in Ithaca

• Cornell University Campus
• Taughannock Falls
• West End District

Weekend Getaway from NYC to Martha's Vineyard

If you’re looking to venture a bit further from NYC, then you should consider going to Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Martha’s Vineyard is an island that rests seven miles off of Cape Cod, Massachusetts’ southern coast. At a little over five hours, getting there is half the adventure.

The island is just 100 square miles and is a famous summer colony, but it also has a year-round population of around 17,000 residents. The island consists of six towns: Edgartown, Aquinnah, Tisbury, West Tisbury, Oak Bluffs, and Chilmark.

Distance: 270 Miles (6 hours by car and ferry) 

Things to do at Martha’s Vineyard on your day trip from New York

• Keep an eye out for celebrities – everyone from Meg Ryan and Seth Meyers to the Obamas are known to frequent the area.  
• Spend a few hours exploring Oak Bluffs.  
• Take a walking tour of Edgartown.  
• Gingerbread Houses
• The Island’s five lighthouses
• Alley’s General Store

Shopping Day Trip to the Garden State Plaza Mall

This mall is the largest in the state of New Jersey. In the small town of Paramus, New Jersey you will find the answer to your shopping cravings. Due to the mall being in New Jersey you don’t need to pay any taxes on clothing and shoes making this mall a bargain hunters dream.

Weekend Getaway from NYC to the White Mountain National Forrest

If you’re looking for a day trip that puts you in the middle of nature, then you’ve found it in this region! The White Mountain National Forest spans from western Maine into eastern New Hampshire and is just a short five-hour drive from Manhattan. Here you’ll marvel at the majestic alpine peaks and mountainous hardwood forests.

Visitors can expect to experience breathtaking scenery, wildlife, clear mountain streams, and lakes, as well as take part in outdoor recreational activities all year.

Distance: 300 Miles (5 – 6 hours by car) 

Things to do in the White Mountains on your day trip from New York

• Hike to Arethusa Falls, which is New Hampshire’s tallest waterfall.  
• Go skiing during the winter down Cannon Mountain.
• Rent a rustic cabin at one of the many sites throughout the forest.  
• Conway scenic railway
• Polar Caves Park
• Cranmore Mountain Resort

Day Trip from NYC to Atlantic City

Since gambling was legalized in the 1970s, Atlantic City has claimed its place in the industry. The city attracts many visitors yearly who want to try their luck at the slots and tables, but it’s also popular among tourists looking to sunbathe on the beach. If you can imagine combining a Jersey Shore beach vacation with a bit of Las Vegas, then you can imagine what Atlantic City is like.

Today, you’ll find many upscale boutiques, luxury hotels, and trendy nightclubs. And while Atlantic City isn’t as crazy as Vegas and you won’t find Florida’s white-sand beaches, it’s still a worthwhile day trip.

Distance: 125 Miles (2 hours by car) 

Things to do in Atlantic City on your day trip from New York

• Take a stroll along the famed boardwalk.
• Hop on some rides at the Steel Pier.
• Spend a few hours at the Atlantic City Aquarium, or try your luck at one of the numerous casinos.  

Places To See in Atlantic City

• Lucy the Margate Elephant
• War memorials
• Absecon Lighthouse

Day Trip from NYC to Ocean City

Ocean City is not only affordable, but it’s also more kid-friendly than other comparable destinations and is known for specializing in American family beach vacations. There are so many things to do in this city that you’ll have difficulty narrowing down an itinerary.

From the boardwalk and its amusement rides to the powdery beaches and delicious seafood eateries, there is no shortage of establishments in Ocean City.

Here are some things you’ll want to check out during your stay:  

Things to do in Ocean City on your day trip from New York

• Grab a snack and ride some amusement park rides at the boardwalk.
• Eat breakfast at Fractured Prune Donuts.
• Spend a day having fun on the water with Paradise Watersports.

Places To See in Ocean City

• Jolly Roger Amusement Park
• Art League of Ocean City
• Northside Park

Our Favorite City Breaks

Of course, New York made it to the top of your list, but considering the size of the country, other big cities are not too far away. Whether you’d like to take a day trip from NYC to the nation’s capital Washington D.C. , explore the history of the beginning of the nation in Philadelphia or want to head up North to go to Boston – all those can be conquered in a single day! Other popular day trips from NYC that are easily accessible include Atlantic City.

Day Trip to Washington D.C.

The American capital Washington D.C. is a good four hours’ drive from New York City. The bus tour starts at the Gray Line Visitors Center in Manhattan and the bus will take you south through the states of New Jersey, Delaware and Maryland until you reach Capitol Hill. With so many things to learn and see this is one of the most interesting day trips you can take from NYC.

Day Trip to Boston

This day trip to Boston takes you through one of Americas most interesting historical cities. Everything from architecture to monuments and historically significant spots make this tour a great choice for all history lovers. Boston is a beautiful city and a nice contrast to NYC, making it the perfect getaway for a day! The bus will leave from the Gray Line Visitors Center and take approximately 4 hours.

Philadelphia Day Trip from New York

This day trip will take you from New York to Philadelphia. In the heart of the historic city, the famous Liberty Bell, Constitution Square and Constitution Hall are waiting to be discovered. Of course, the famous steps from the movie “Rocky” and the Parque del Amor and City Hall are not missing. In short, you will definitely see all the highlights that Philadelphia has to offer.

Looking for an even more luxurious tour? Check out this Private Day Trip to the Hamptons here .

Atlantic City

Since gambling was legalized in the 1970s, Atlantic City has claimed its place in the industry. The city attracts many visitors yearly who want to try their luck at the slots and tables, but it’s also popular among tourists looking to sunbathe on the beach. If you can imagine combining a Jersey Shore beach vacation with a bit of Las Vegas, then you can imagine what Atlantic City is like. 

Today, you’ll find many upscale boutiques, luxury hotels, and trendy nightclubs. And while Atlantic City isn’t as crazy as Vegas and you won’t find Florida’s white-sand beaches, it’s still a worthwhile day trip. 

Ocean City is not only affordable, but it’s also more kid-friendly than other comparable destinations and is known for specializing in American family beach vacations. There are so many things to do in this city that you’ll have difficulty narrowing down an itinerary. 

From the boardwalk and its amusement rides to the powdery beaches and delicious seafood eateries, there is no shortage of establishments in Ocean City. 

During my roadtrip along the east coast of the USA, Baltimore landed on my itinerary for the first time. Due to its location by the ocean, it has its very own charm and is especially interesting for those who already know Boston and Washington. From New York you can reach Baltimore in about 3 hours. In terms of time, it makes no difference whether you travel by rental car or train.

Albany is New York’s capital city and is not just the oldest city in the state, but it’s one of the oldest in the nation. English immigrants took control of Albany, NY, in 1664 and named it after the Duke of Albany. By the early 1800s, the city was the 10th largest in the country, which is a title that San Jose, CA, took. The area’s growth was fueled by the creation of the Erie Canal and the railroad, and it continued to serve as a vital transportation hub until the early 1900s. 

Hence, as you can see, this area has an extensive history, and there are many local attractions that help provide excellent learning experiences for newbies. Today, this capital city and college town is home to about 100,000 people and has something for everyone. 

Distance: 150 Miles (2,5 hours by car)

New Haven is a quaint community located in Connecticut in the Long Island Sound and is the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from NYC for a day. In fact, New Haven is only about two hours from Manhattan, so the trip is relatively easy and painless. And the best part is that this area has a lot to offer! From imaginative art and delicious cuisine to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone. 

You’ll appreciate that New Haven offers a much calmer feeling than that of the hustle and bustle found in New York City. 

Phoenicia, New York, is a hidden gem located in the beautiful Hudson Valley. This Catskills town is an off-the-beaten-path and home to a collection of natural attractions and acclaimed dining establishments. Located just two and a half hours from New York City, this area has more than enough corners to explore during a day trip. 

Between the close proximity to Manhattan and gorgeous scenery, this is a popular area in the summer months. Yet, Phoenicia is a wonderful place to visit any time of the year, as there are always activities such as shopping, dining, and exploring the high peaks of the Catskill Mountains. 

Poughkeepsie

Poughkeepsie is known by many as the “Queen City of the Hudson,” as it is located on the banks of the Hudson River in the scenic Hudson Valley. This area was established during the 17th century by Dutch settlers, but today it’s a bustling college town that’s also popular with tourists. 

For Nature Lovers

As you know, we like to refer to New York as the concrete jungle but even though you can find lots of green spaces in the city, you may have the desire to experience more nature during your trip. So why not take a day trip from NYC and head to the Niagara Falls or Bear Mountain ? Depending on how much time you have, you can choose from 1-day or 2-day getaways from NYC.

01 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: White Mountains

If you’re looking for a day trip that puts you in the middle of nature, then you’ve found it in this region! The White Mountain…

02 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Bear Mountain State Park

Bear Mountain State Park is a 5,067-acre park that’s located just one hour away from New York City. It’s home to many sights such as…

03 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Martha's Vineyard

If you’re looking to venture a bit further from NYC, then you should consider going to Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Martha’s Vineyard is an…

04 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Niagara Falls

The tour to Niagara Falls is super beautiful: you will not only see the famous falls themselves, but also Watkins Glen National Park!

05 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Finger Lakes Region

New York’s Finger Lakes region spans an area that encompasses 11 lakes in an area that was once covered by glaciers. In addition to the…

06 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: The Palisades, NJ

The Palisades is located in Bergen County and overlooks the Hudson River. The park is roughly 12 miles long, covers 2,500 acres, and is a…

07 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Cold Spring

Cold Spring is renowned for being one of the best-preserved towns from the 19th Century and is just a 90-minute train ride from New York…

08 Day Trip from NYC for Nature Lovers: Mohonk Preserve

Located in the town of New Paltz, New York, you’ll find a private 8,000-acre nature preserve that’s highly popular among tourists and residents alike. The…

Shopping Trips

New York is home to the world’s most famous stores and you’ll probably find everything you need. However, there is an incentive to take a day trip from New York to go shopping: saving money if you’re thinking about serious shopping! The most popular outlets in the area are the Woodbury Common Outlet in Central Valley, New York, and the Jersey Gardens Outlet in Elizabeth, New Jersey. You’ll also find the Garden State Plaza Mall  nearby as well as the soon (fingers crossed!) to be finished American Dream Mega Mall .

01 Woodbury Outlet Shopping Trip

Less than 1 hour from Manhattan you will find the Woodbury Common Premium Outlets. With over 220 designer stores like Dolce & Gabbana, Gap Outlet,…

02 American Dream

Attention shoppers: the Greater New York City area is now home to one of the largest malls in the nation – the American Dream mall.…

03 The Hamptons, Sag Harbor & Outlet Shopping Day Trip from NYC

A really great day trip is this trip to the famous Hamptons on Long Island. We have already done this tour and were thrilled. What…

04 Jersey Gardens Outlet Center

Not far from New York City is the Jersey Gardens Outlet Mall with over 200 shops, a large food court, restaurants and a cinema. The…

The 5 Best Niagara Falls Day Trips from New York by Bus

The 9 Best All-Season Road Trips From New York

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

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The 21 Best Day Trips From London

By Condé Nast Traveller and Anna Prendergast

London ’s hustle and bustle can become overwhelming, even for the most dedicated locals—but its handy location means that day trips from London are easy for anyone who needs a quick escape, whether it be for a country walk, a seaside jaunt, or a cultural getaway. Most of our selection of the best day trips from London can be reached by train , within less than two hours—and many couldn’t be further from the busy streets and crammed schedules of the capital. Whether you’re looking for fresh air, delicious eateries or a new selection of shops, these easy-to-plan day trips should slot nicely into your schedule.

Below are 21 of our favorite day trips from London, in no particular order.

Read our complete London travel guide here .

All listings featured on  Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK .

Canterbury, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a colorful, food-fuelled history lesson in the garden of England How to get there from London: The direct train from London St Pancras to Canterbury West can take as little as 53 minutes

Prehistoric settlements have been uncovered in this corner of Kent, and it was a popular haunt of the Romans, who surrounded the early city by constructing an earth bank and fortified walls around 130 acres of land. The story of Canterbury that schoolchildren learn, however, comes from the medieval period, courtesy of Chaucer.

The city is home to one of the UK’s most spectacular cathedrals. Pilgrims have navigated the route to this ethereal site for many centuries, and it’s here that Thomas Becket was infamously slaughtered at the order of Henry II–although this series of events has been contested by countless historians. From the cathedral, scan the selection of novels through the crooked door of the Catching Lives Charity Bookshop, before soaking up the sun in one of the city’s hidden pub gardens–The Dolphin and The Parrot are some of our favorites.

Stroll along the remnant of the ancient wall that is still accessible, or settle in for a lazy afternoon on the colorful banks of the River Stour after collecting treats from The Goods Shed. Historic river tours of the river are touristy but not overly expensive, so well worth booking ahead of a visit to uncover the secrets of these romantic, cobblestone streets.– Connor Sturges

If you decide to stay over: Parts of The Falstaff Hotel date to the 13th century, and original features such as fireplaces and oak beams are a nod to the city’s medieval history. The city’s main attractions are within walking distance, and comfortable beds, craft cocktails, and a signature afternoon tea await once you are back in the cosy setting.

Elmley Nature Reserve

The best day trip from London for:  getting fully immersed in nature How to get there from London:  The train from London St Pancras International to Swale takes 1 hour 50 minutes and then it’s a short taxi ride to Elmley Nature Reserve

Think of day trips to Kent and you’ll probably skip straight over the Isle of Sheppey. Just off the northern coast of Kent next to the Thames Estuary, Sheppey is an unglamorous largely industrial island that initially lacks the tourist appeal of some of its Kentish neighbours. But there’s a secret gem here right off the mainland–the bucolic Elmley Nature Reserve, 3,300 acres of wetlands and wilderness. This family-run estate is a true wildlife conservation haven and is the perfect trip for birdwatchers and nature lovers. With over forty varieties of birds raising their young at Elmley each year, there are some beautiful walking trails to spot them all, plus the other resident hares, frogs, dragonflies, cows, voles, bees and more. As soon as your taxi turns onto the long entry drive, it’s easy to see elegant birds such as egrets, lapwings and redshank happily frolicking on the flat marshlands and that’s before you’ve even started exploring. Open Wednesday to Sunday, the entry fee is £6 and that gets you access to the beautiful open landscape for a self-guided wander (although you have to stay on the paths!); they also arrange organised tours at dusk and dawn for £29.50 if you want an expert to help you spot marsh harriers, long-eared owls, sparrowhawk and peregrine falcons. It might be only 40 miles from London but it feels like another world. As well as an incredible place for a day out in nature, there’s also a lovely barn restaurant to get cosy in for toasties at lunch and more hearty evening meals, plus an impressive range of smart places to stay dotted across the reserve if you want to extend your visit.– Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  From decked-out shepherd’s huts with outside baths to four poster beds in the grand 18th-century main house, there’s a wide range of places to stay – all with stunning views over the nature reserve.

Great Garden Escape, The Newt in Somerset

The best day trip from London for: a VIP experience How to get there: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 25 minutes

If you’re not the planning type, The Newt in Somerset’s Great Garden Escape is a fun-filled organized day trip that shows off the best of the British countryside and its charming traditions. With a jam-packed schedule starting at Paddington station, day trippers travel First Class with breakfast served on-board. On arrival, they’ll be given a tour of the gardens at The Newt, which have been landscaped over hundreds of years and are now home to wildlife including deer and newts–of course. There's even an opportunity to explore the grounds with experts, along with a dive into the history and traditions of Somerset. Plus, a stopover at the incredible Roman Villa Experience.

Lunch leads into a cider tasting, made on-site using apples grown in local orchards, where you’ll undoubtedly be swayed into picking up a bottle or two to take home. When you’ve breathed in just enough country air, the train journey home serves up afternoon tea, depositing you back in the city just in time for sundowners. The whirlwind tour is the ideal tonic for shaking off burnout and reminding yourself of the beauty on your doorstep.– Abigail Malbon

If you decide to stay over : Should you choose to forego the train ride home in favor of waking up somewhere new, The Newt is a Jane Austen dream, whether you choose a room in the Georgian house or the converted outbuildings, barns and stables. Bedrooms are simple and beautiful, with a focus on relaxation, but those with a view are truly exceptional. In the morning, wake up early and treat yourself to a swim in the spa pool as the sun comes up – you’ll return to London feeling like a new person.

Clifton, Bristol

The best day trip from London for : packing a lot in How to get there from London: The train from London Paddington takes about 1 hour 35 minutes.

After hopping off the train at Bristol Temple Meads, take a stroll to Clifton–the city’s most beautiful leafy suburb. Quiet residential streets are lined with pretty Georgian townhouses, spots of greenery to wander through off the cobbled streets and an eclectic mix of independent cafés, restaurants and shops.

Start with a gander around Clifton Arcade in the heart of Clifton Village, where the 17 boutiques are filled with knick-knacks and intriguing antiques. It’s not a true shopping experience without a pit stop for coffee and cake – try one of Bristol’s top coffee spots, Spicer + Cole, or–for a 100-per-cent plant-based menu–refuel with a slice of rose and vanilla loaf and a superfood latte at East Village Café.

Pick up some fresh fruit and vegetables from the local greengrocers and head to Clifton bridge for fabulous views across the River Avon. It's one of the oldest surviving iron suspension bridges in the world. Learn about its history at the Visitor Centre, stopping off for a pint of traditional Somerset cider at the White Lion by its side. Continue the historical tour by walking up to Clifton Observatory, which has a museum featuring a Victorian-era Camera Obscura and a mythical Giant’s Cave, alongside its own rooftop café serving up breathtaking views. And don’t miss out on a walk down Royal York Crescent–one of the most expensive streets in Bristol, which was also once reputed to be the longest terrace in Europe.

Next, spend time at Bristol Lido, a restored Victorian swimming bath from the 1800s surrounded by a spa and poolside bar for the ultimate in pampering. Round off the day with a cozy pub meal at The Albion, an Indian fine-dining experience at Nutmeg or a hearty pizza at Bosco around the corner on Whiteladies Road.– Cordelia Aspinall

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the recently refurbished Number 38 boutique hotel for a peaceful stay overlooking the Clifton Downs, perfect for your morning stroll.

Jessica Puckett

Scott Laird

Lucy Bruton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Bath, Somerset

The best day trip from London for: soaking up history How to get there from London: The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 20 minutes.

Bath is known for its history, but among the buttery-hued Georgian architecture and ancient thermal springs there’s a fresh independent spirit. When the weather is good, there are a couple of brilliant walking routes to try: the six-mile Bath Skyline, for example, is a short stroll from the city centre and tramps through woodland, meadows and orchards with views of the buildings below.

The Somerset city’s literary heritage is well documented–Jane Austen is probably the most famous one-time resident–and there’s still a thriving network of bookshops and literature festivals here, including at bookworm magnet Topping and Company, which stocks more than 55,000 titles. Restaurants are driven by excellent local produce and seasonal ingredients. Grab a traditional lunch at The Circus (we recommend the Wiltshire lamb two ways) or order bun cha at Vietnamese spot Noya’s Kitchen. After a bite, shop at clever concept stores such as Nām, which sells antique furniture and homeware curated by owner Sharan Kaur, and Found, where you can buy clothes from niche global brands, or spend an afternoon at wine bar Corkage, where about 70 bottles are available to sample by the glass.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Small hotel Eight lives up to its name; there are just eight rooms, and the ground-floor restaurant always has eight dishes on the menu.

Read more about the best things to do in Bath, Somerset

The New Forest, Hampshire

The best day trip from London for : woodland walks and long pub lunches How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo usually takes about 1 hour 45 minutes

With its purple carpets of heather, ancient woodland and England-of-yore villages, the New Forest has long been a release valve for Londoners eager to clear the cobwebs and the cortisol. The apex of its beauty has to be autumn, when its rich hues cut through morning mists and dazzle in the afternoon sun. It's best enjoyed during a long ramble, where you’re likely to meet free-roaming New Forest ponies, cattle and even pigs, followed by a hearty pub lunch with local ale and a warming log fire.

Take the train from Waterloo to Beaulieu Road station and fuel your hike with a pint of real ale at the Drift Inn. If independent shops, cafés and beaches are on the agenda, it’s best to head to Lymington instead, as this one-and-a-half-hour loop around the pub on the edge of the New Forest is blissfully rugged and remote. Having traipsed through a mixed mosaic of woodland and absorbed the silence and sweeping views across the heathland, hunker down at the Drift Inn for a Hampshire beef burger, ale-battered haddock or the pie of the day (invariably something along the lines of mud pie with mash and gravy).– Rosalyn Wikeley

If you decide to stay over : Those seeking the quintessential heather-and-wild-ponies New Forest should bed down at The Pig hotel in Brockenhurst or Limewood near Lyndhurst (about five minutes from the Drift Inn). However, the trusted favorite among New Forest devotees, Chewton Glen continues to lure weary urbanites with its coveted position – wedged between woodland and the coast – and commitment to the good, old-fashioned service and comforts of a country club. You’ll find few zeitgeisty design details or next-gen touches here. Instead, antiques, thick carpets and mahogany furniture keep this 18th-century manor house sure of its identity – save a few fun treehouse bedrooms, should privacy or the 21st century fall into your criteria. Don’t miss the fresh salads and fish lunches once you’ve been pummeled in the spa or worked up an appetite in the Grecian-style pool. The gardens are also glorious for afternoon tea after visiting Highcliffe beach.

Hertford, Hertfordshire

The best day trip from London for : pub-crawling and country walks How to get there from London: The train from Finsbury Park takes 35 minutes

With its higgledy-piggledy, pastel-colored buildings and cobbled streets, this county town serves up a slice of English antiquity that’s postcard-pretty enough to satisfy both shiny-eyed visitors from further afield and weary Londoners searching for fresher air, shorter queues and somewhere different to look at for the day. With trains running every half hour, it’s possible to find yourself marching around its 15th-century castle grounds (check ahead for cinema screenings, talks and events), net fishing from a sandy cove in Hartham Common or wandering about its dinky museum within the hour. Alternatively, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can cycle from London along the River Lea towpath.

On arrival, dip into its handful of local shops – The Women's Society Boutique has an imposing exterior but is a real treasure trove–before stopping at one of the many independent cafés and restaurants. Popular deli-bar Giambrone’s serves authentic Italian plates, while Hertford Coffee Lab makes for a cool pit-stop, and Georgian townhouse and B&B Number One Port Hill hosts occasional pop-up suppers. Plus, the artsy Dog and Whistle, once a pop-up café, has blossomed into a hipster foodie pub and music venue with rooms. Indeed, Hertford – quiet market town by day and more bustling nightspot come evening – specializes in pubs, particularly old-world ones. There's The Salisbury Arms Hotel, said to have been the place where Oliver Cromwell stayed during the Civil War and home to a number of ghosts; the 16th-century White Horse; the 17th-century Blackbirds; and the riverside Old Barge (exact age unknown, but 'old' is part of the name…). If you have time, go on the three-mile walk to Ware alongside the River Lea towpath–the neighboring town also has a plethora of pubs – and catch the train back to London from there.– Becky Lucas

If you decide to stay over: Hertford House Hotel took over the former local newspaper’s offices in pretty Parliament Square in 2006 and hasn’t stopped evolving since, with its latest restaurant and bar renovation completed in autumn 2020. Don’t miss out on brunch in the secret garden, a locally sourced roast in the restaurant and a pint in smart sister pub The Quiet Man.

The best day trip from London for: an under-the-radar getaway How to get there from London: The fast train from St Pancras International takes 1 hour 22 minutes

This hillside scribble of Georgian streets tucked behind the Kent coast really hit our radar in 2018. Nicknamed ‘Margate’s little sister’, it’s a much cosier, countryside version of its arty neighbour. And that’s exactly its appeal. Deal is less shouty than Margate, but there’s still an exciting slew of shops, cafés and galleries that have arrived over the past few years. The Saturday Market stalls are worth a rummage, but it’s the food that brings the locals back each weekend. For more of a sit-down lunch we love Frog and Scot where the chef, previously of The Sportsman in Seasalter, cooks up a daily changing menu based on hyper-local produce. Founder of Smugglers Records Will Greenham (ex singer and guitarist of the band Cocos Lovers, who’ve supported Mumford & Sons on tour) is at the heart of the town’s music scene, and in terms of art, Linden Hall Studio is a contemporary gallery in a converted chapel that wouldn’t look out of place in Mayfair.– Tabitha Joyce

If you decide to stay over: The Rose was revamped in 2018 and now there are eight cute bedrooms splashed in bold colors and filled with vintage finds. The restaurant is looked after by Rachel O’Sullivan (previously of East London’s Towpath Café) who dishes up Scandi-inspired breakfast plates of smoked salmon, avocado, soft-boiled egg, dill and whipped cream cheese.

Read more about Deal, Kent

Whitstable, Kent

The best day trip from London for: oysters on the beach How to get there from London : The train from from St Pancras takes 1hr 13 minutes

This little town on the north Kent coast isn’t quite the sort-of-secret it was back in the 1990s, when DFLs (local jargon for Londoners) rediscovered it, arriving at weekends for seafood at Wheelers on the high street and pints of Kentish ale at the beach-side Old Neptune pub. But it’s still an atmospheric place to head for a hit of vitamin B12 – via a dozen or so oysters – then a scrunch along the shingle shore, spotting Second World War sea forts across the waves and seals in the harbour. There are plenty of places to eat: avoid the overpriced Royal Native Oyster Stores and head instead to JoJo’s, just down the road in Tankerton, for mackerel fillets and Med-inspired small plates. Or Samphire, a Whitstable bistro with cuttlefish risotto and Romney Marsh lamb on the menu. There’s also a thriving micropub scene here, with The Handsome Sam, The Black Dog, and the larger Twelve Taps for hoppy experimentation. But our favorite pastime is picking up a pot of cockles and whelks from the quayside, or fish and chips and oysters from The Forge shack, and devouring them in the shade of a wooden groyne on the beach, preferably with a bottle of English fizz to hand.– Rick Jordan

If you decide to stay over: The Victorian fisherman’s huts on the beach are the best place in which to hole up, the sound of waves and boat masts jangling in the wind outside, and can be booked via Hotel Continental. Along the coast in Seasalter is the Driftwood Beach House B&B .

Rye, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : a bracingly fresh seaside getaway How to get there from London: The train from St Pancras International takes about 1 hour 10 minutes with a change at Ashford International.

Rye is home to what might just be Britain’s prettiest (and most prettily named) street, and a wave of newcomers have moved in alongside the quaint old-timers in Mermaid Street and beyond, opening smart interiors stores and artisan bakeries next to unironically vintage tea rooms and souvenir shops. After breakfast at Whitehouse Rye–order the halloumi hash–pick up a new read at The Tiny Book Store (the clue’s in the name) and window shop for that fantasy mansion at striking antiques shop Strand House Interiors. The blustery dunes and invigorating waters of Camber Sands, one of the best beach near London , are a 15 minute ride away on the local bus, but head back in time for a rustic supper at Tuscan Rye, where fresh pasta (ricotta ravioli with brown-butter sauce, potato and thyme tortellini in a rich ragu) draws loyal locals.– Sarah James

If you decide to stay over: Book a room at the lively George in Rye , which welcomes A-list guests (George Clooney and Helena Bonham Carter have both checked in for sleepovers) and smart locals in the same breath.

These are our favourite things to do in Rye

Margate, Kent

The best day trip from London for : a cultural day out How to get there from London: the fast train from London St Pancras takes 1 hour 25 minutes.

It’s no secret that this Victorian seaside town has had quite the hipster renaissance in recent years, sparked mostly by the arrival of the Turner Contemporary gallery in 2011 and spurred on by a slew of new openings and a wave of Londoners upping sticks and moving down to the Kent coast. For a cultural outing, the waterside Turner Contemporary is still a must. Entry is free so it’s worth popping in even if you’ve never heard of the artists on show, and the shop has some nice local products. For more contemporary art head to Crate, an artist-led project space in an old printworks. If you’d prefer something older–much older–wander over to the most ancient building in town, the Tudor House, a Grade II-listed 16th-century timber-framed house on King Street. It’s on your route from the seafront to the mysterious Shell Grotto, a spooky set of underground tunnels covered in more than four million shells.

A trip to Margate isn’t complete without a few hours in Dreamland, whether it’s for some spins on the rides or to see one of the amusement park’s impressive line-up of gigs in the evenings. Do take a stroll around town to hit up the vintage shops selling retro clothes, furniture and homewares, where you can still find some decent bargains. And don’t forget to head over to Cliff Terrace to visit the flagship store of cult natural skincare brand Haeckels, which makes divine-smelling beauty products using seaweed gathered on the beach nearby. Speaking of the beach, if you want to go swimming walk along the coast to Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, a man-made sea lagoon where you can find calm waters and steps for easier access. If you arrive early (or stay the night), tuck into cracking breakfast at Storeroom coffee shop or at Cliffs, where there’s also a record shop, a hair salon and a yoga studio. In fact, the whole up-and-coming area of Cliftonville is worth exploring. After all that roaming, great seafood can be found for dinner at either Angela’s or Hantverk & Found–reserve a table in advance though, as both get booked up. – Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over: The best beds in town are at The Reading Rooms , a boutique b&b in a restored Georgian townhouse a few minutes’ walk from the seafront. Be sure you don’t have to rush off in the morning as they’ll bring breakfast to your room so you can eat it overlooking the leafy square.

Read more about Margate's best things to do

Eastbourne, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : fair-weather walkers How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 30 minutes.

Eastbourne is an old-timey British seaside town with a Victorian pier, a pebble beach, and a much-loved bandstand where tribute acts reign: ‘Queen’, ‘ABBA’, ‘Frank Sinatra’ and ‘Lady Gaga’ have all played. You could spend the day taking in the town’s thriving art galleries, with plenty of opportunities for refueling stops along the way (our favorite is the stripped-back-trendy Nelson Coffee Co opposite the station) but the real draw here is enjoying the great outdoors at Beachy Head, where you’ll find the famous Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. A hike with seriously impressive views out to sea runs across the top. Wander all the way along to neighboring Seaford or make one of the secret beaches tucked away at the foot of the cliffs your way point. It’s a steep climb down, but Falling Sands Beach is quiet and sandy and well worth the adventure. Eastbourne often makes the list of the sunniest places in the UK, so don’t forget your sunglasses.– Olivia Holborow

If you decide to stay over: Book into the Beachy Head holiday cottages –there’s a choice of 8, all set around a rambling walled garden with fruit and vegetables you can help yourself to.

An insider guide to the South Downs

Brighton, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for : blasting the cobwebs away by the sea How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour 34 minutes.

Brighton is a brilliant mish-mash of retro, seaside fun and progressive culture. Book in advance and you can get return tickets from London for as little as £10. A maze of bunting-lined streets, The Lanes bursts at the seams with vintage shops–don’t miss Beyond Retro and Dirty Harry, and our two favorite independent boutiques, Our Daily Edit and Peggs & Son, as well as retro memorabilia (navigate the turnstile at Snoopers Paradise for collectors’ items, vinyl, and furniture). Time your day trip to include breakfast at Kensingtons – grab a table on the balcony for giant plates piled high with eggs, toast and beans. It’s not the easiest spot to find, so look out for a shop called Artemis on Kensington Gardens, which overflows with sheepskin rugs and pelts – the café is on the left; follow the smell of bacon up the stairs. Later, reserve a table at Food for Friends, a superb veggie restaurant with award-winning flavours and presentation. A short walk away is the huge 8km pebbly beach–the section near the Palace Pier is dotted with stripy deckchairs and usually buzzing from spring to autumn (and often absolutely crammed in summer). There’s something terribly British about layering up and enjoying a windswept walk in the winter months, too. Reward yourself with a bag of hot, sugary donuts from the pier.

If you decide to stay over : Walk along the seafront to The Ginger Pig, a restaurant-with-rooms with pre-mixed cocktails in the minibars and Cowshed bottles by the standalone bathtubs.

The best restaurants in Brighton

Lewes, Sussex

The best day trip from London for : history buffs and vintage hunters How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes just over 1 hour.

Lewes: the market town in the South Downs that sits against a backdrop of chalk hills and green peaks. Cobblestoned 'twittens' (narrow streets), hand-painted shop signs and crumbling tiles from the 1960s make it feel like a town time forgot, and its slower rhythm makes for a reinvigorating gear-change. The Needlemakers on West Street is home to a range of small, independent shops that sell local craftsmanship, from jewelry to books–Alexis Dove is a favorite for delicate silverware and Susie Petrou has an eye for vintage blouses and Romanian embroidery. There’s an incongruous well at the bottom by the vintage shops – throw in a penny for good luck before you start hunting through piles of clothes and bags. Lewes Flea Market is an alluring source for antique furniture and quirky homeware, and is open daily (not to be confused with the outdoor Sunday market, which is also worth a visit). At the other end of town, at the bottom of Cliffe High Street, you can find Bill Collison’s very first Bill’s restaurant, a European deli-turned-eatery, where you can get hearty dishes such as pumpkin, fig and chestnut roast, or a beef, bacon and camembert burger. After lunch, ponder the paperbacks at the Fifteenth Century Bookshop, which has been carefully restored in recent years but remains as much of a landmark as Lewes Castle. Finish the day with a pint; Harvey’s Brewery is the only independent brewery in Sussex and provides the John Harvey Tavern over the road with local cask ales (download the self-titled app to find out where you can get it in London).

If you decide to stay over : Head to Firle for a night at The Ram Inn , and enjoy crisp linen and generous breakfasts served by an open fire.

Folkestone, Kent

The best day trip from London for: a coastal up-and-comer How to get there from London : The fast train from London St Pancras to Ashford takes 40 minutes, where you can change for Folkestone Central.

The seaside town of Folkestone is mid-makeover, which is the ideal time to visit – before everything gets priced up and the place’s quirks glossed over. The appeal of Sunny Sands beach is self-explanatory – this tiny, windswept slip of sand is one of the best beaches in Kent and the ideal spot to kick off your day (unsurprisingly, it fills up with families wielding buckets and spades, sticky with sunscreen, too). A trio of swashbuckling pubs and restaurants–The Ship Inn, The Mariner, and The Captain’s Table–lines the seafront, but the real treasure can be found in the Creative Quarter. At the bottom of The Old High Street is Bounce Vintage, an open space with rails full of retro sportswear, French chore jackets and Aloha shirts. If you exchange smiles and pleasantries with the rosy-cheeked owners, they might just offer you an espresso on the house. Failing that, further up the road, Steep Street sells specialty coffee, homemade cake and books . Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall shelves of hardbacks tower over fat leather armchairs and blackboard tables that you can doodle on in chalk. There are endless places to eat and drink around town: Rocksalt for a smart menu and sea views; Papas for old-fashioned fish’n’chips ; Beano’s for veggies; La Casa Del Bello Gelato for ice cream Follies for pizza and The Pullman for pints. The Harbour Arm, though, is where Folkestone’s own folk go – the Champagne bar hidden in the lighthouse at the end is rustic, romantic, and completely charming.

If you decide to stay over : Book a room at the Linen Shed , a dove-grey, weatherboarded house on the old Roman road to Canterbury.

The best restaurants in Kent

Oxford, Oxfordshire

The best day trip from London for : a traditional slice of British culture How to get there from London : The Oxford Tube coach service takes 1 hour 30 minutes and runs until 3am; trains also run from Paddington and Marylebone stations and take 1 hour.

In one of the most quintessentially English cities in the UK (and the most expensive to live in outside London), cream tea is not just a rite of passage – it’s a requirement. And there’s only one place to take it – The Vaults & Garden Café, signposted by the presence of an antique bicycle with a flowerbed in its basket, is a gorgeous 14th-century building surrounded by colleges (Oriel, Brasenose, Murton, All Souls), where scones come loaded with clotted cream and seasonal homemade jam (the café has serious sustainability credentials, too). Architecture is a major draw in Oxford ; the libraries, bridges and even cinemas feature Palladian domes, Norman design, ziggurat influences and listed buildings which make this a city to see on foot (Radcliffe Square is a must, and it’s worth paying £4 to climb the tower at the Church of St Mary The Virgin for the best view of Oxford). If you’re taking kids, the Pitt Rivers Museum is packed with bizarre artefacts and stories they’ll tell their friends about, and The Story Museum welcomes you through a wardrobe into Narnia and other fictional worlds of wonder. If you booked a babysitter, however, grab a drink at the brilliant Freud bar in Jericho–a stained-glass church-turned-cool-cocktail-bar that is grown-up enough to feel sophisticated but student-y enough to have plenty of atmosphere and frivolity in the air (or perhaps it’s something in the drinks).

If you decide to stay over : There are plenty of lovely hotels in the Cotswolds , such as The Wild Rabbit –the latest outpost from eco-queen Carole Bamford of Daylesford Organic fame.

Cambridge, Cambridgeshire

The best day trip from London for : people-watching and scenery How to get there from London : The train from London King’s Cross takes 45 minutes.

Like cycling in Amsterdam or taking trams in San Francisco , punting really is the most sophisticated way to see the city of Cambridge and the university grounds. Scudamore’s is the oldest ‘chauffeur’ company and offers a more traditional tour, but board a boat from the Garret Hostel Bridge for a younger, more humorous experience (ask your punter why the GHB is also known as Orgasm Bridge). For lunch, foodPark is a top hawker convoy of Sri Lankan curries, wood-fired pizza and open-wide burgers that sets up from 12pm until 2pm in varying locations around Cambridge from Wednesday to Friday. For something more upscale, book one of Galleria’s terrace tables on the south side of the Magdalene Bridge, with British fusion food and views of the River Cam (your gluten- and dairy-free friends will thank you, as there are two separate menus specifically catering to their diets). In the autumn, the leaf-covered colleges are particularly picturesque as they turn red and rust, and in spring, Parker’s Piece is a scenic stretch of greenery from which to navigate (spot the lamppost that supposedly inspired the post in CS Lewis’ Narnia). From here, find eccentric English shop Bowes & Co, Fitzbillies for iced buns, Aromi for Italian nibbles, Kettle’s Yard art gallery and G David for antique books. Finish your day with the choral evensong at King’s College Chapel around 5.30pm: goosebumps guaranteed. For more ideas, see our guide to the best things to do in Cambridge .

If you decide to stay over : It doesn’t get much better than the iconic University Arms hotel , reopened in 2018 after a serious reboot.

Ashdown Forest, East Sussex

The best day trip from London for: welly-wielding outdoorsy types How to get there from London : The train from London Victoria takes 1 hour to East Grinstead (a 15-minute drive from Forest Row).

AA Milne famously wrote the stories of Winnie the Pooh while living just north of Ashdown Forest. Known as 100 Acre Wood in Pooh’s world, the forest is home to the spellbinding stories and is an enchanting place to stretch your legs for a day, easily accessible via East Grinstead station. Stretches of open heathland give way to leafy walkways and carpets of bluebells in spring, where the woods teem with wildlife (spot fallow deer, badgers and the odd friendly pheasant–no honey-eating bears, though), and the only noise is birdsong. You can even visit Pooh Bridge (for a game of Poohsticks, naturally), but be warned, it’s a prominent tourist spot. Pooh was a big fan of having ‘a little smackerel of something’, and nearby village Forest Row has plenty of places for elevenses. Taffels deli is a family-run café and much-loved lunch spot (there is nothing skinny about the skinny chips; they are double-fried and divine) and caters to all dietary requirements, while Java & Jazz serves huge hot chocolates cakes and crispy-crusted pizza. For proper pub food, the cosy Hatch Inn (one of our favorite country pubs near London) is known for roasts with all the trimmings and offers plenty of dog-patting opportunities. If you’re not in a hurry to get home, head to Linton’s car park–locally known as ‘the viewpoint’–for sunset.

If you decide to stay over : Gravetye Manor is a very English Elizabethan country-house classic and one of our favorite weekend breaks in the UK .

Dungeness, Kent

The best day trip from London for : nature enthusiasts How to get there from London : The drive to Romney Marsh via the A20 and M20 takes 2 hours.

Arriving in Dungeness from London feels a little like stepping out of a Tardis into a different time zone, where a recent apocalypse has left the landscape barren, the wildlife overrun, the buildings flattened, and the population dramatically compromised (in fact, the Dungeness Power Station appeared in Doctor Who in 1971). Unofficially known as ‘Britain’s only desert’, Dungeness has a unique environment–single-story buildings appear to have been swallowed by the shingle and plants let loose with little regard for human-imposed order. The beach resembles a mass shipwreck; abandoned fishing boats, crumbling shacks, winches and forgotten tractors coated in decades of rust sit, untouched, unmoved and as mysterious as a Russell T Davies plot. There’s not a whole lot to do here – but there’s so much to see, and so much to pique your curiosity that you’ll spend the journey back Googling the area. Kids will love the sheer strangeness of it all, and it’s impossible to resist the childlike urge to climb and run and play. Few places so close to London feel like such an adventure; the journey can take less than two hours and, if you time it right, you can order the catch of the day for lunch from roadside hut the Snack Shack, which does the freshest fish, lobster rolls and ice-cold cans of San Pellegrino.

If you decide to stay over : You’ll have to venture out of Dungeness–try The Rose in Deal , a grown-up bolthole splashed with bold colors and covetable vintage finds.

The best day trip from London for : switching off How to get there from London: The train from London Waterloo to Dorking takes 50 minutes.

Surrey’s proximity to London makes the journey a breeze–and it’s an especially astute pick if you’re likely to be coming with a car full of little ones. At Henry VIII’s home Hampton Court Palace, there are family-friendly events such as beast quests and ghost tours, as well as the famous giant hedge maze, where adventurous kids can lead the troops. In winter, an ice rink is set against the historic backdrop of the palace, a building whose grandiose architecture is shaped by both the Tudor and Baroque periods. If you’re escaping the city (and the kids), however, check in at Grayshott Health Spa, a traditional country home with cutting-edge treatments. Surrounded by 47 acres of flowering gardens, it’s a peaceful place to step back and take stock. Connect with nature at Kew, too, where the Royal Botanic Gardens are open to the public all year round. The winter light show is particularly mesmerizing, when the sun starts to sink earlier and earlier. Be sure to take cash for mince pies and mulled wine as you wander through the grounds. Having been awarded a Michelin star, Steve Drake’s restaurant Sorrel in Dorking (a market town with chocolate-box charm) is currently the county’s hottest restaurant with the most exciting ‘discovery menu’.

If you decide to stay over : Surrey is home to some of the best spas near London, such as Grayshott, where the Manor House rooms offer faded charm.

Hastings and St Leonards

The best day trip from London for:  old-school seaside charm How to get there from London:  The fast train from London St Pancras International takes 1 hour 32 minutes with a change at Ashford International

There’s almost too much to fit into a one-day visit to Hastings, especially if you want to pop over to the neighbouring town of St Leonards. Over the last few years, these two East Sussex enclaves have become a popular bolthole for burnt-out Londoners looking for a bohemian seaside escape. To see what all the fuss is about, head straight to explore Hasting’s quaint Old Town, a picturesque maze of streets sandwiched between two dramatic cliffs. Pedestrianised scenic George Street is where most of the action happens, with a thrum of cafés, shops and pubs, but it’s worth wandering the surrounding streets too. Seek out AG Hendy & Co on the High Street for well-curated vintage homewares and stop into The Crown for cozy pub grub made with excellent local produce. If you’re up for a wander, get the funicular up and walk along to the cliff to Fairlight Glen, a beautiful secluded beach where clothing is optional. Or if that sounds a bit much, stay in the Old Town and explore the dramatic black fisherman’s huts on Rock-A-Nore beach where there’s Hastings Contemporary art gallery, a tiny shipwreck museum, fresh seafood stalls and a very cute miniature railway. Next up, take the 40-minute amble along the beach past the pier to St Leonards and stop off for food at the fabulous seafront café, Goat Ledge. It’s worth the trip for their crispy panko fish baps and katsu curry sauce chips alone. Nearby, there are great independent shops selling everything from candles to kimonos on Norman Road and King’s Road where you can easily spend a few hours happily browsing and café hopping before settling into dinner at Michelin-recommended pub The Royal.  Sonya Barber

If you decide to stay over:  Book into  The Old Rectory , a bijou  b&b  in Hasting’s Old Town with treatment rooms and a walled garden.

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Best Ice Cave Tour in Vatnajokull Glacier Starting from Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Small-Group 8-Hour Golden Circle Minibus Tour with Bruarfoss Waterfall & Kerid Crater from Reykjavik

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Self drive tours in iceland, tour calendar, nature tours in iceland, adventure tours in iceland, cheap bus tours in iceland, top tour destinations in iceland, verified customer reviews.

Read first-hand reviews by customers from across the world

Tim Cartwright

Jan was a great tour guide. While the hike was rather simple, it was still fun. Next time i will do a more advanced climb. So much fun! This was definitely a bucket list item for me!

What a great ride! I'm an experienced rider and while it was slow at times waiting for everyone to catch up, the entire ride was very scenic and fun! They had some great locations and paths for us to follow. I loved it!

I couldn't buy a ticket in the Blue Lagoon website so i bought one on here and it worked out great. As a solo male traveler, i had a great time enjoying the lagoons with a beer.

Elaine Coderre

Jòn our guide was fantastic. The ice cave formation was amazing. However, i would not recommend this tour for people with mobility issues, it is a bit of a hike from the van to the cave. Uphill mostly. But the experience on walking on ice and seeing mother nature create this masterpiece was spectacular. A must see.

Iceland, a land of stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, offers an array of exciting day tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to immerse themselves in the local culture, Iceland's day tours provide unforgettable experiences.

From the majestic waterfalls and erupting geysers to the serene hot springs and rugged volcanic terrains, each tour is a journey through some of the most breathtaking sceneries in the world.

The variety of day tours available ensures that there's something for everyone. You can embark on a whale-watching adventure , experience the magic of the northern lights in the winter , or explore the unique geothermal areas that Iceland is famous for . For those who love history and culture, there are tours covering Iceland's rich Viking heritage and charming towns.

Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in hiking, glacier walks, or horseback riding through the scenic landscapes. The tours are designed to cater to different interests and fitness levels, making them inclusive and accessible.

What makes these day tours truly special is their combination of natural wonders with professional and friendly guidance. Tour operators in Iceland are known for their high safety standards and deep respect for the environment. They ensure that your experience is enjoyable and informative, offering insights into Iceland's unique geology, folklore, and traditions.

With these tours, you're not just visiting; you're connecting with the heart and soul of Iceland. So, whether you're seeking a thrilling outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape into nature , Iceland's day tours promise an experience you'll treasure for a lifetime.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best day tour in iceland, is it worth taking a day tour in iceland, what is the cheapest day tour in iceland, how long is the average day tour in iceland, what kind of day tours are available in iceland, do day tours in iceland offer hotel pick-up, is lunch included on day tours in iceland, which day tours in iceland are suitable for children, what is the best time of year to take a day tour in iceland, are there any day tours that focus on the northern lights in iceland, can day tours in iceland accommodate people with disabilities, what are the safety measures in place for day tours in iceland, do any day tours in iceland include visits to geothermal areas or hot springs, are there day tours available that focus on iceland's wildlife, such as whale watching, what should i wear or bring with me on a day tour in iceland, are there day tours that explore iceland's volcanic landscapes and lava fields, can i book a private or custom day tour in iceland, are there any cultural or historical day tours available in iceland, how can i book a day tour in iceland and what is the cancellation policy, are there any day tours that include hiking or other outdoor activities in iceland, do day tours in iceland operate during the winter months.

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The 19 best tours and walks in NYC

Take one of the best NYC tours and let an expert show you the city like never before

With so many must-see attractions in NYC , a visit to the city can be overwhelming. The best NYC tours — whether by land, sea or air — can help you make the most of your visit. Even locals will enjoy these tours and maybe learn something new (or discover a few secret NYC destinations) by taking an off-the-beaten-path tour . Choose your own adventure: walking tours, boat tours, bike tours and helicopter tours are all great ways to see the city, and the expert guides will leave you with a satisfying taste of the city. Looking for something more specific? There are food tours, movie tours, art tours, architecture tours and more. Whatever part of NYC you want to explore, there’s a tour for you, and you’ll have fun while learning everything you need to know about the Big Apple.

Recommended:  the best lesser-known attractions in NYC   Recommended: the best non-touristy things to do in NYC Recommended: the best parks in NYC Recommended: the best food tours in NYC  

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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Best NYC tours

1.  Big Bus New York Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

The quintessential city tour of all tours, hop-on hop-off's get some major props for ease, accessibility, and price. Map-reading and subway-taking not your strong suit? No worries — even the most directionally-challenged traveler can enjoy Big Bus Tours, condensing a sightseeing fest including thirty landmarks into one trip. Be sure to watch out for famous points of interest as you go with the aid of a live tour guide (and go-to know-it-all about New York attractions). And if something catches your eye? Just hop off wherever you fancy — simple. Choose from routes running in downtown, uptown, Harlem, and Brooklyn and get from Wall Street’s Charging Bull statue to the green meadows of Central Park with ease. Basically, it's an easy option for seeing as much or as little as you want of the city in one day – and not stress out about maps or super expensive Uber fairs.

2.  Small Group Central Park Bike Tour

You’ll cover much more of Central Park’s 843 acres of meadows, woods, and ponds on a bike than you ever could on foot. Meet up with the guide from Central Park Tours Inc. to pick out your wheels for the day, then set off from the south end of the park. You’ll spy iconic landmarks, plus a few lesser-known gems. And since the tour is always capped at just eight people, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions along the way and maybe even make a new friend or two. Oh, and you know, we could think of worse ways to stay fit and save the planet. 

3.  Circle Line: New York Landmarks Cruise

As far as skylines go, Manhattan's is a hard one to beat. There's the Statue of Liberty leading the way from Ellis Island, Brooklyn Bridge showing off its architectural beauty, and the Empire State standing tall – all of which make for a stunning view from the water. Sail around New York harbor on the Circle Line cruise, which heads up the Hudson, as well as rounding the Brooklyn bay areas. You'll also hear the history and stories behind all of the sights, so fill up on the facts and don't hesitate to ask a question or two. 

4.  9/11 Memorial and Ground Zero Walking Tour

Remember the lives lost during the tragedy that was 9/11 by visiting the site where the World Trade Center once stood. Now known as Ground Zero, your guide will share facts, figures, and real-life stories with you – making for a trip that is insightful, informative, and moving all at once. Starting at City Tales Sightseeing, you'll also stop at the  Fireman’s Memorial,  twin reflecting pools, One World Observatory, and  St Paul’s Chapel .

5.  Central Park TV and Movie Sites Tour

With 843 acres of meadows, woods, and streams, Central Park offers a gorgeous green backdrop for filmmakers. So perhaps it’s no surprise that countless movies have been set here, from When Harry Met Sally to Ghostbusters . Movie buffs will recognize the skating rink featured in Serendipity , the people-watching scene from Annie Hall, and the path that Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra, and Jules Munshin biked along in On the Town . This two-hour walking tour takes you to 30 film locations within the park, though hundreds more exist.

6.  Champagne Brunch Sail

Fresh air, ocean waves, unlimited prosecco, and a massive brunch spread of bagels, lox, cream cheese, quiche, fresh fruit, and more—it’s fair to say that this midday cruise on the Shearwater really does have it all. Sit back and relax and the crew guides the restored 1929 sailboat out into the harbor. If you’re lucky, the captain will even let you take a turn at the helm.

7.  Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tour

Boasting some of the most jaw-droppingly spectacular views in the city, the Brooklyn Bridge is a beacon for snap-happy tourists. But don't let your only experience of this stunning structure and its incredible views be through the viewfinder of your camera. Put the gadgets down and take a bike ride across the bridge to really soak up the scenery. This 'Bike and Roll' tour takes about three hours, running at a  leisurely pace with  plenty of time for photo stops. Make sure you make the most of your guide, who is sure to have bags of knowledge about the bridge's history and architectural details. 

8.  Sugar Hill and Washington Heights Tour

Sugar Hill got its name during the Harlem Renaissance, as “life was sweet” for the wealthy African Americans who lived in the district. Thurgood Marshall, Langston Hughes, and Duke Ellington all spent time in the row houses here. Peep the stunning Queen Anne–style architecture and immerse yourself in the vibrant community on this walking tour of the area.

9.  Lower East Side Bagel Tour

Come hungry: You start this walking tour of the Lower East Side with a piping hot bagel smeared with cream cheese. The eats only get better as you visit venerable New York institutions like Katz’s Delicatessen, Russ and Daughters, The Pickle Guy, and Economy Candy. It’s not all about the food either: Your guide will explain how immigrants shaped both this neighborhood and its cuisine as you walk.

10.  Roosevelt Island Tour

Few visitors know anything about Roosevelt Island, a secluded residential community that feels worlds apart from the rest of the city. Once used for insane asylums and hospitals, Roosevelt Island is now home to a thriving population of about 14,000 residents. But, if you have the stomach for it, revisit the island's troubled past on the 'Island of Lost Souls' tour. Pass eerie sites, like the neo-Gothic ruins of the smallpox hospital, the first pathological and bacteriological research lab, and the NYC Lunatic Asylum which opened in 1841. After you learn about the island’s history, board the aerial tram for a sky-high trip over the East River into Manhattan.

11.  Best of Brooklyn Half-Day Food and Culture Tour

Despite Manhattan's abundance of white-clothed, Michelin-starred dining rooms, some are now touting Brooklyn as the epicenter of food culture in NYC. Either way, it's impossible to deny that Brooklyn's dining scene is incredible, from pierogis in Greenpoint's Polish stronghold to tacos and pupusas in Sunset Park and trendy farm-to-table newcomers in Williamsburg. To provide a thorough understanding of the borough's eats, this half-day tour will take you through all those neighborhoods, as well as Dumbo, the waterfront neighborhood where you'll enjoy sweets from the renowned Jacques Torres chocolate factory.

12.  Sex and the City Hotspots Tour

What Sex and the City fan hasn’t daydreamed about switching lives with Carrie, Samantha, Miranda, or Charlotte for the day? The over-the-top outfits, glamorous parties, and outrageous dates might be too good to be true, but at least the scenery is true to life. Visit Carrie’s brownstone, some of the girls’ favorite bars, and an X-rated store featured on the show on this epic bus tour. There might even be time to stop for a Cosmo.

13.  Statue of Liberty Express Cruise

Perfect for the sightseer who knows exactly what he or she wants, this Circle Line express tour goes right to the Statue of Liberty – no pit stops this time. Listen to an expert guide point out some lower Manhattan landmarks before pausing for photos right next to Lady Liberty. And since this cruise only takes an hour, it’s easy to fit into even the busiest itinerary.

14.  High Line and Chelsea Walking Tour

What started life as an unremarkable elevated railway is now famous across the world and one of New York's most photogenic landmarks. The High Line is a public park, rotating art gallery and perennial tourist attraction stretched, as the name suggests, high over the bustling city streets below. Take a two-hour walking tour hosted by New York Tour 1 to explore the full span of this green oasis and take in the architecture and unique history of Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. Make sure you save some time to shop in Chelsea Market afterward and don't forget to snap a pic of the lush greenery. 

15.  Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour

This is one for the foodies. The Lower East Side’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its culture. It's impossible to separate the two: as different immigrant communities moved in over the decades, each brought the foods of their homelands with them. These days, you can find everything from knishes to stroopwafels to fresh mozzarella within a few blocks. This three-hour walking and eating expedition around the neighborhood lets you t aste all the foods it has to offer – and learn about their origins. 

16.  Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village

You’d never know it from the looks of Washington Square Park, but Greenwich Village has a sinister past. At the northwest corner of the park is the Hangman’s Elm, one of the oldest trees in the city and the site of at least one public execution. Master of horror Edgar Allan Poe once lived in the neighborhood and rumor has it that artist John La Farge still haunts the nearby Church of the Ascension. Delve into the neighborhood’s gruesome past on this two-hour ghost tour, and discover all of its haunting secrets. Just be sure to wear comfortable shoes!

17.  The Sopranos Sites Tour

Technically speaking, this tour takes you outside the five boroughs, but The Sopranos is such an iconic New York show that we couldn’t leave it out. After you board the bus in Midtown, you’ll go through the Lincoln Tunnel – the site of the show’s unforgettable opening sequence – on your way to the New Jersey suburbs. There, you’ll check out the Bada Bing! strip club, Big Pussy’s auto body shop, and the restaurant featured in the final scene of the series.

18.  Alternative New York Street Art Tour

There's much more to art in New York than just the paintings, photography, and sculptures exhibited in its many prestigious museums. Graffiti started life in the Big Apple and NYC remains at the very forefront of the street art world to this day. Discover some of the city's very best outdoor artworks and murals on an Inside Out Tour of either the Lower East Side or Bushwick and Williamsburg. You won’t find these artists hanging in any gallery. Yet.

19.  New York City Lights Sail

There's only one thing more spectacular than New York's skyscrapers glimmering in the sun – the famous skyline dramatically lit up against the night sky. Board the Shearwater for a cruise around the harbor after dark. The 105-minute trip is a great way to get awe-inspiring views of the city and a much-needed moment of calm out on the water.

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17 Absolute Best Day Trips from London (+ How to Visit, Top Tours & Map)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 10, 2024

London is an amazing city with so much to offer that you could spend weeks and still not see it all. But in addition to all the top sights and attractions in the city itself , there are also so many beautiful places near London, many of which can easily be visited as a day trip from London.

However, with such an array of possibilities, how do you choose the very best day trips from London that are worth your time the most?

In this article, we feature the absolute best places that you can visit as a one-day trip from London, England . This guide includes all the ‘musts’, the very best day trip destinations near London for first-time visitors, but also for local travelers who want to (re)discover some of the most popular sights near London.

In addition, for each place, we include recommendations on how to visit on your own and also the best day tours from London . Because even though you can visit many of these places by train, often, you will be able to see so much more if you go on an organized tour.

Many tours combine several major landmarks in one day, allowing you to make the most of your time and see a lot in a short time. Furthermore, going with a local guide is a great opportunity to explore deeper, scratch beneath the surface, and discover things you didn’t even know existed…

Good to know: At the bottom of this article, you can find a map indicating all the places that you can easily visit as a day trip from London mentioned in this guide. It will give you a better idea of where everything is.

TIP: If you don’t have the time to read the entire article and are looking for the best day trips from London, here are the 4 most popular day tours among our readers:

• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath (also in combination with Roman Baths that you can add when booking).
• Cotswolds .
• Harry Potter Studio (also in combination with Oxford).
• Seven Sisters & South Downs .

Interesting to know: Overall, the most-visited day trip destinations from London are Windsor Castle and Harry Potter Studios.

These are the best & most popular day trips from London:

1. Windsor Castle

If you visit just one place outside of London city, make it Windsor Castle ! Located just 20 miles (32 km) from the city center, a day trip to Windsor is a must on any London bucket list!

The spectacular Windsor Castle is one of the queen’s official residences and has been home to the royal family for 900 years! Kings and queens have been buried here, including the infamous Henry VIII and Jayne Seymour, his third wife. Most recently, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, is also buried at St George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.

An excellent example of church architecture in medieval times, Windsor Castle is still used for royal receptions and state occasions. In recent years it has been the venue of the weddings of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, and Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank.

Open all year round, Windsor Castle is a great way to explore royal history, from touring the Castle Precincts to viewing the lavish staterooms and apartments. The Castle Grounds are both beautiful and peaceful and from there you can observe the iconic Changing of the Guard, which normally happens at 11 am on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, from April until the end of July.

Good to know. At the moment, Windsor Castle is open daily except for Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Because it’s a working royal palace, sometimes parts of the castle or even the entire castle can get closed on short notice. Below, you can find all the practical information for your visit. Read on!

How to visit. You can easily get to Windsor by train from London. There’s a direct train from London Waterloo Station and it takes about 1 hour. From Windsor & Eton Riverside station, it’s just a short walk to the castle. Be sure to book your Windsor Castle tickets online in advance ! This is the best option for those who prefer to take their time and explore the castle at their own pace.

If you come here for a day, be sure to check out Windsor and Eton towns as well! The best way to do this is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus in Windsor . Another nice thing to do is take a boat tour and enjoy different views of the castle from the river.

Good to know: Entry to Windsor Palace is also included with the London Pass , which offers good value if you spend more time in London and plan on visiting many popular tourist attractions and museums.

Best tours from London. Windsor Castle is the most popular day trip destination near London, so there are many tours that can bring you here as well. Most tours that visit the castle also include one or several other nice places nearby – perfect for those who are short on time and want to make the most of their day.

Here are the most popular day tours from London that visit Windsor Castle:

• Windsor Castle only – this is a convenient bus transfer from/ to London that also includes the tickets to the castle. This tour takes about 4 hours in total – the fastest way to visit Windsor Castle from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – the most popular full-day tour from London.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – with an option to visit Roman Baths.

2. Stonehenge

Stonehenge is one of the world’s most famous prehistoric monuments and another extremely popular destination for London day trips. Built almost 5000 years ago by farmers in the Neolithic period, this is a spiritual and architectural wonder that many people consider an absolute must-see in the UK!

Historians still debate its original purpose, although most agree that it was probably built for spiritual reasons. Meanwhile, engineers marvel at the extraordinary skill and size of the construction project, which must have involved hundreds of workers given the very simple tools they had available at the time.

Whilst the main attraction at this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the mystical Stone Circle itself, you can also view the 5 on-site Neolithic houses. Their design was based on the remains of houses from this period that were discovered during a nearby excavation in 2006.

You can step through the doors of these houses to see just how the builders of Stonehenge might have lived thousands of years ago, with each house equipped with replica axes, pottery, and artifacts.

How to visit . Stonehenge is located about 90 miles (145 km) from London. There are no direct trains to Stonehenge, but you can take a train to Salisbury train station and then take The Stonehenge Tour Bus service from there. The easiest way to get here from London is either by car or by tour. If you drive, prepare for very busy traffic and count at least 2 hours one way. If you go without a tour, be sure to book your admission tickets online in advance !

Best tours from London. Since Stonehenge is quite a drive from the city, but it doesn’t require that much time to visit, it’s usually included as one of the sights of some of the most popular day tours from London.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Stonehenge from London:

• Stonehenge only – a very popular half-day tour (morning or afternoon) that includes transportation and entrance tickets. It takes about 6 hours and is the fastest way to visit Stonehenge from London.
• Stonehenge & Bath – the most relaxing full-day tour.
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath – a very complete tour that also includes an entry to the Roman Baths.

Bath is one of the most beautiful cities in the UK and the most popular town that you can easily visit as a day trip from London. This picturesque historic city is filled with stunning examples of honey-colored Georgian architecture and some of the most photographed buildings in the world.

Perhaps the most famous feature of this UNESCO World Heritage City is the ancient Roman Baths built around thermal springs and supplying water for over 2,000 years. Whilst the Baths are open for you to view, no bathing has been allowed there since 1978. Instead, the much more modern Thermae Bath Spa was opened in 2006, containing the only natural hot spring in England in which you are allowed to bathe.

In the city stands the magnificent Bath Abbey , with its unique ‘ladder of angels’ on the west front. This feature was inspired by Bath’s Bishop at that time, who saw angels ascending and descending in a dream. You will also see the iconic ‘Royal Crescent’ – 30 Grade I listed terraced houses built in the late 18th century, arranged in a crescent around a verdant lawn overlooking Royal Victoria Park.

Another architectural gem is the Circus , also built in the latter half of the 18th century. This historic street of large townhouses forms a circle, which is how it got its name (Circus is Latin for a ring, circle, or oval).

And perhaps most beautiful of all is the romantic Pulteney Bridge , with its small, leaded domes, pilasters, and pediments. The bridge was named after the wife of William Johnstone Pulteney, an important figure in Bath at that time and owner of much of the surrounding land. A popular thing to do in Bath is to take a short boat trip on River Avon – it allows you to easily see some of the main sights of Bath in a short time.

How to visit. Bath is about 120 miles (195 km), about 2.5 hours drive from London. If you drive, be sure to stop at Stonehenge along the way! The fastest way to get to Bath from London is by train – it takes less than 1.5 hours. And there are also many tours that visit Bath from London, usually in combination with other beautiful places nearby.

TIP. If you visit Bath on your own, you may want to take a walking tour of the city. It’s the best way to see a lot in a short time – you’ll be sure not to miss any important places, but it also gives you a better insight into the history and architecture of this unique town.

Best tours from London. Since Bath is so close to Stonehenge, most tours from London visit both of these places together. In addition, some tours also include one or several other places nearby.

Here are the most popular day tours from London to Bath:

• Stonehenge & Bath .
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Bath .
• Stonehenge and Bath Tour with Secret Site – a very highly rated small group tour.

One of the UK’s most famous university towns, Oxford is also a place that you can easily visit as a day trip from London.

Oxford University was established in the 12th century and is one of the oldest universities in the world. The university is composed of 38 separate college buildings, whose architecture inspired the poet Matthew Arnold to name it the ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ (see the picture of the All Souls College below, and you’ll understand where the name comes from).

Some scenes in the Harry Potter movies were filmed in Oxford, so it can be fun to try and spot them as you tour the city. Harry Potter fans can also opt for this popular walking tour of the filming locations .

In the heart of the city center is Christ Church College , home to the magnificent Hall and Christ Church Cathedral with its landmark spire and Tom Tower. The gardens of the 12th-century Cathedral inspired Lewis Carroll to write ‘Alice in Wonderland’. You can hunt for features of the story, such as the Alice in Wonderland motives in one of the large windows in the Great Dining Hall.

The Cathedral also contains the shrine and tomb of Saint Frideswide, the patron saint of Oxford. Christ Church College – one of Oxford University’s largest colleges – has lots more for visitors to see, from the famous Bodley Tower to the stunning Meadow Building.

There are two main museums that are well worth seeing during a visit to Oxford. Founded in 1683, the Ashmolean Museum is Oxford University’s museum of art and archaeology. Free to enter, it’s a great place to learn all about human culture and societies across the world and throughout time, with its collections including everything from Egyptian mummies to contemporary works of art.

The Oxford University Museum of Natural History , meanwhile, houses a captivating collection of natural specimens, covering everything from Earth’s beginnings to a look inside an active beehive!

Connecting two parts of Hertford College is the Hertford Bridge , popularly known as the ‘Bridge of Sighs’. Named after its resemblance to Venice’s Bridge of Sighs , this particular bridge is a skyway that allows students to travel from one building to another. Designed by Sir Thomas Jackson and completed in 1914, this photo-worthy bridge is best viewed from the steps of the University’s Bodleian Library (another must-see in Oxford).

How to visit. Oxford is just 60 miles (95 km), 1.5 hours drive from London. There are also direct trains from London and the journey takes about 1 hour – this is the best way to visit Oxford on your own. There are also organized tours that visit Oxford from London – usually in combination with one or two other places nearby.

TIP: If you visit Oxford for a day, consider this walking tour . It takes just 1.5 hours and is a great way to learn more about the city and the university. River cruises are also very popular and are a fun way to explore Oxford!

Best tours from London. While you could easily fill an entire day in Oxford, most one-day tours from London only spend a few hours here and combine a visit here with several other places.

Here are the most popular tours that visit Oxford from London:

• Harry Potter Studio Tour & Oxford – a bucket list day trip for all Harry Potter fans!
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge & Oxford – see three of the most popular locations in one day.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – this is a great tour for those who want to see the English countryside. It’s also a nice addition to the popular Windsor, Stonehenge, and Bath tours mentioned above. If you do two of these tours, you get to see most of the nicest day trip destinations near London in just two days.

5. Cotswolds

The scenic traditional towns and stone villages of the Cotswolds is one of the most popular London day trips for those who want to experience the true English countryside. This area is so picturesque! Below, you can find an overview of the most beautiful places not to miss.

Minster Lovell village is the home of Minster Lovell Hall and Dovecote, which sits on the banks of the River Windrush. This 15th-century Oxfordshire manor house was built by William, Baron of Lovell and Holand – one of England’s richest men at the time. The house was eventually abandoned and now only the substantial ruins remain, giving lots of wonderful photographic opportunities against their beautiful rural backdrop.

A Cotswold village of outstanding beauty is Bibury , with its gorgeous stone buildings that run along the banks of the River Coln. Here you can see the iconic Arlington Row – a series of buildings that were originally built as a monastic wool store but were later converted into cottages. Now owned by the National Trust, Arlington Row is considered to be so quintessentially English that its image appears on the inside cover of UK passports.

Another village well worth visiting is Buford , with its 3 arched medieval bridges across the River Windrush. Famous for its High Street which runs down toward the river, Buford is popular for antique shopping and boasts lots of good restaurants, pubs, and tea rooms. It’s also home to a hotel in which King Charles dined with his mistress, Nell Gwynne.

Whilst there are many contenders for the title, most people will agree that Bourton-on-the-Water is the prettiest village in England. Also known as the ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’, this ‘must-see’ village is named for the many beautiful bridges that cross its river at the center. Located in a small valley, Bourton-on-the-Water has many charming tea rooms and restaurants, plus a range of eclectic shops including pottery and the Cotswold Perfumery. Don’t miss the popular model village, which is a 1/9th scale replica of the entire center of the village.

If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the afternoon of the August Bank Holiday Monday, you’ll witness one of the village’s more curious traditions, in which a local team plays a full game of football right in the River Windrush. This bizarre game of soccer has been filmed and reported all over the world!

If you have more time in this area, here are some more really nice villages to see in the Cotswolds: Castle Combe, Stow-on-the-Wold, Cirencester, Chipping Campden, Blockley, and Stanton .

How to visit. The Cotswolds are about 30 minutes drive west of Oxford and about 2 hours drive from London. Since the main attractions of the Cotswolds are its various villages, the best way to visit here is either by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. The beautiful Cotswolds region is just a short drive from Oxford, so many tours combine the two places. There are also popular Downton Abbey filming location tours that combine a visit here to that of the Highclere Castle, but because of time restraints, you usually only see one village on these tours.

Here is an overview of the most popular Cotswolds tours from London:

• Cotswolds only – this is the best tour for those who want to explore the Cotswolds deeper as it visits several of the nicest villages and allows you more time to experience this beautiful area.
• Oxford, Stratford, and Cotswolds – the most popular day tour.
• Oxford and Cotswolds Villages – the best small-group tour.
• Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Bath, and Cotswolds – this tour is packed, but well organized and you get to see some of the best places in a very short time.

6. Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford-upon-Avon is a small medieval market town and also a very popular place to see near London. The birthplace of William Shakespeare is probably at the top of most people’s must-see lists and the main reason to visit here.

The timber-framed house on Henley Street is where Shakespeare not only spent part of his childhood but also the first 5 years of his marriage after his father’s death in 1601. Live presentations from guides dressed in period costumes and the carefully restored Tudor rooms bring history to life.

In the many Tudor-style buildings of Stratford, you’ll also find 3 theatres owned by The Royal Shakespeare Company. They perform plays by Shakespeare, his contemporaries, and other, later writers. The Royal Shakespeare Theatre is situated on the banks of the River Avon, panoramic views of which can be enjoyed from the theatre’s tower.

Also on the River Avon is the Swan Theatre , built on the side of the Royal Theatre and offering a more intimate atmosphere. The third theatre – the Other Place – is smaller and used as a center for performing arts.

For a taste of old-fashioned romance, pay a visit to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage a bit outside of town. This beautiful 500-year-old building was originally a farmhouse and was where William Shakespeare courted Anne, his future wife. Incredibly picturesque, the cottage still contains original features and furnishings and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Another must-see is the Hall’s Croft , the house of Shakespeare’s daughter, with stunning gardens. Inside, you can find original 16-17th-century furniture, paintings, and other items.

How to visit. Stratford-upon-Avon is about 100 miles (160 km), 2 hours drive from London. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to visit here on a day trip from London is by joining a tour.

Best tours from London. Most tours visiting Stratford-upon-Avon from London combine it with other places nearby and only spend a few hours here. They usually include a guided walk in the town center and sometimes a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace.

Here is a small selection of the best day tours from London:

• Shakespeare’s Stratford & Cotswolds – this is one of the few tours that spend more time in Stratford and also visits Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. It also brings you to three villages in the Cotswolds.
• Oxford, Stratford, & Cotswolds – this popular tour spends about 2 hours in Stratford and covers more ground in a day.

7. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Fans of Harry Potter – and even those who have yet to experience the wizardly wonder of the movies – will enjoy a visit to the fascinating Warner Bros. studio near London . It’s one of the most popular day tours from London (after Windsor Castle), and a must if visiting London with kids .

Here, you can see firsthand some of the amazing sets used in the film’s production, including the Great Hall of Hogwarts (which went on to be used in 6 more films) and the Forbidden Forest filled with 19 trees, each with a diameter of over 12 feet. You can even see The Hogwarts Express locomotive at the elusive Platform 9¾.

There are prop rooms where you can take a close-up look at look at the elaborate props used in the Harry Potter movies. There are almost 2,000 potion jars and memory vials, all with labels hand-designed by the Graphics Department. You can also see Weasleys’ Wizard Wheezes, which took 3 months to build and was intended to look as much as possible as a real 18th-century storefront.

If you have an interest in the making of movies, you will enjoy other parts of the studio as well. The Special and Visual Effects section reveals how some of the more incredible scenes were created, including how Harry and his friends were made invisible by the Invisibility Cloak and how they appeared to fly! Even more captivating is the Creature Effects section, where you can learn how the magical creatures in the Harry Potter films were created and brought to life.

A visit to the Making of Harry Potter Studio provides a magical and educational experience for adults and children alike. If you are looking for a fun relaxing day trip near London, this is a great option for the whole family!

How to visit. Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio is located in Leavesden, Watford, about 20 miles from London city center. But because of the busy traffic, it’s quite a long drive. There’s a train from London to Watford, from where you’ll have to take a bus to the studios – the journey will take you over 1 hour not counting the time to get to the station. There are also several companies offering bus transfers from London – see below.

Best tours from London. The easiest way to get to Harry Potter Studios is by booking a transfer or a tour from London. That way you don’t have to worry about the tickets either.

This highly-rated  Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour  departs from Victoria Station, close to Westminster Catedral in the city center. There is also a popular  tour that departs from King’s Cross . The prices are usually the same and include a bus transfer and tickets. You’ll need about 7-8 hours in total for this day trip.

PRO TIP: One of the most popular tours from London is this popular tour that includes a visit to the studios and also visits Oxford . It’s a truly magical day trip as Oxford is one of the places where Harry Potter movies were filmed.

8. Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace , one of the Tudor Palaces, was the former royal residence of King Henry VIII. In addition to Windsor, this is another really nice place to visit near London, especially if you are a fan of royal history.

Hampton Court is a huge, impressive baroque-style palace located at the River Thames and surrounded by stunning gardens and parkland . If you visit in spring, you can see the magnificent tulip festival. But the gardens have something nice to offer in every season, and there are various events at the Palace throughout the year.

The interior of the castle gives you a chance to take a glimpse into the daily life of royals in the 16-17th centuries. You can visit the impressive State Rooms and private apartments of William III . Also, don’t miss the kitchens of Henry VIII , where over 200 people worked in the past, cooking and serving more than 800 meals per day.

Another highlight is the magnificent Great Hall that was originally a dining room, but afterwards became a sort of theatre that was used for entertainment, plays, and dances. Back in the day, William Shakespeare performed his plays here. The highlights here include a series of tapestries showing scenes from the Book of Genesis and the impressive timber roof with Anne Bollaine’s coat-of-arms.

This is also a very nice place to visit for families, with a maze in the garden, fantastic play areas for children, and plenty of places for a picnic. When the weather is nice, you could easily spend an entire day just exploring the gardens.

How to visit. Hampton Court Palace is located on the outskirts of London, about 15 miles southwest of the city center. You can easily visit Hampton Court Palace from London by train. There is a train from London Waterloo Station to Surbiton Station, and from there to Hampton Court. It takes about 40 minutes.

In addition, there are also several tours – see below.

Good to know: Hampton Court Palace entry is included with the London Pass .

Tours from London. Because Hampton Court is quite easy to get to and explore on your own, there aren’t many organized tours. The best ones are private tours like this one ; it combines a visit to Hampton Court Palace with that of Windsor Castle. That way, you get to see two of the most impressive royal palaces near London in one day.

There are also some nice bike tours or boat tours that explore the surroundings of Hampton, starting from different locations nearby.

9. Brighton & Seven Sisters

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London and see some of the stunning nature of England, then definitely consider a day trip to the white cliffs of Seven Sisters and South Downs . At the same time, you can also visit one of the UK’s nicest coastal cities – Brighton .

Brighton is worth a trip in its own right, with all the little pleasures that a lively seaside resort has to offer. If you have some time to spare, check out the Royal Pavilion , an Asian-style palace that looks like it belongs in an Indian fairytale…

But for a sightseeing day trip from London, you can also opt for something slightly different and explore some of the beautiful nature outside of town as well.

The rolling hills of the South Downs offer so much to explore and enjoy, with spectacular views and popular spots with their own unique legends. One of the most famous is that of the Devil’s Dyke , a v-shaped dry valley whose creation was attributed to the work of the devil himself (although, as you will see, it’s far too beautiful for that!). The South Downs is also home to the Long Man of Wilmington – a 235 ft tall chalk figure on the side of a grassy hill and one of only two human hill figures in England.

Be sure to check out Beachy Head , which – at 535 feet – is the highest chalk cliff on the southern coast of England. From the top, you can see miles of coastline in either direction, plus the candy-striped lighthouse that sits just out to sea. Nearby is the Birling Gap – one of the longest stretches of undeveloped coastline on the south coast. Here you can see coastal erosion firsthand, with the cliffs eroding up to a meter a year at certain points.

Another highlight of any visit to the South Downs is the Seven Sisters – an undulating line of white chalk cliffs, each hill with its own name. They are best viewed from Seaford Head , where you can see evidence of an 8th hill beginning to form from the erosion of the sea.

TIP: Any visit to the Downs must include a visit to the popular Middle Farm , which offers such delicacies as local cheese, sparkling wines, and traditional Sussex cider.

How to visit. South Downs and the Seven Sisters are located near Brighton in south England. While you can easily get to Brighton by train from London, you’ll need a car for the other places. The best way to visit is with a tour – see below.

Best tours from London. There are just a few tours from London that visit this area. The best option is this highly-rated tour that includes a train ticket from London to Brighton and a small-group minibus tour of the sights along the coast. If you prefer to make your own way to Brighton, you can also book the same tour starting in Brighton .

TIP: If you rather book a private tour, there is one tour that offers a pick-up in your hotel in London and covers all these sights in and around Brighton.

10. Cambridge

Less than an hour by train from London, Cambridge is another beautiful town to visit for a day. Just as Oxford, it’s probably best known for its centuries-old University, and this beautiful town has lots of well-preserved historic buildings. But this medieval city is also a student town and has a very nice, relaxed atmosphere.

Don’t miss the King’s College Chapel , Queen’s College , Trinity College, and Wren Library . You can also climb to the top of the tower of Great St Mary’s Church for nice views over the city.

In addition to exploring the many colleges in the city (there are 31! of them), be sure to walk along the River Cam ! Also Cambridge has its own Bridge of Sighs . This covered bridge at St John’s College spans over the river and is a favorite photo spot for weddings as well as tourists visiting the town.

Other nice bridges worth seeing in Cambridge are the Mathematical Bridge , Clare College Bridge , King’s College Bridge , and there are many others.

A great way to explore the beautiful river, see the bridges, the town, and the surroundings is a punt tour . This traditional boat ride is a very typical thing to do in Cambridge – don’t miss it!

How to visit. Cambridge is just over 60 miles (95 km) north of London, and the easiest way to visit is by taking a direct train from King’s Cross Station in London. It takes less than 50 minutes, so you can easily visit Cambridge on your own, without a tour.

Once in Cambridge, you can take a walking tour with a local or explore on your own. The earlier mentioned punt tours on the river are also not to be missed.

Best tours from London. If you rather visit Cambridge with a tour from London, there are several options as well. We recommend this 2-in-1 tour that visits Cambridge and Oxford . That way, you get to see two university towns in one day.

11. Canterbury Cathedral & Leeds Castle

While Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral are over 20 miles apart, these two landmarks don’t require that much time and so are usually visited on the same day. In fact, they are usually combined with a short visit to Dover too, but more about it further below.

After a visit to Leeds Castle , you will not be able to help but agree with Lord Conway, who described it as ‘the loveliest castle in the world’. With a romantic, fairy-tale appearance, this 12th-century gem was built in the center of a natural lake, surrounded by 500 acres of beautiful gardens and parkland.

Leeds Castle was once used as a palace by Henry VIII and the private property of six medieval queens. Its rooms have been beautifully restored and give you the opportunity to learn all about its long and fascinating history.

In addition to the Lady Baillie Garden, which gives stunning views across the lake, the grounds also hold one of Kent’s most popular mazes, with 2,400 yew trees. Once you reach the maze’s center, a fascinating underground grotto takes you back to the real world!

One of the most famous and picturesque Christian buildings in England, Canterbury Cathedral was founded in 597, then extensively rebuilt from 1070 to 1077. It is the Cathedral of the leader of the Church of England, the Archbishop of Canterbury, and is still used for active worship.

The Cathedral contains the shrine of Archbishop Thomas Becket and you can stand on the spot upon which he was murdered, as told in Geoffrey Chaucer’s famous ‘Canterbury Tales’.

Also the medieval town center of Canterbury, with its cobbled streets and timber-framed houses, is a nice place to see if you have more time. It’s a popular day trip from London for locals. Also here, you can take traditional boat tours on the river.

How to visit. Unless you have a car, the easiest way to visit Leeds Castle and Canterbury Cathedral is by taking a tour. If you just visit one of these places, you could also get there by public transport. For Leeds Castle, you have to take a train to Ashford, followed by a bus trip to the castle. For Canterbury, there’s a direct train from London, and you can make a nice relaxing day trip by visiting this picturesque town.

Best tours from London. There are several tours from London that visit these places. You can find them here and they are all quite similar in terms of itinerary.

12. White Cliffs of Dover & Dover Castle

“There’ll be bluebirds over the white cliffs of Dover” went the words to the popular wartime song – and if you’re familiar with the song then it’s quite incredible to see the inspiring white cliffs for yourself. If you are looking for something different to see near London than historic towns and villages, Dover is a wonderful place to visit!

Composed of chalk, Dover’s cliffs are 350 ft high and stretch for 8 miles. They were on the front line of both world wars and were a critical part of England’s defenses at that time. Now, they provide wonderful views across the surrounding countryside and the English Channel. On clear days you can even look across and see France!

The unique chalky grassland habitat of the cliffs means that they are abundant in wildlife and you can see all sorts of flowers, butterflies, and birds as you walk, including the rarely spotted peregrine falcon.

You can either spend your visit simply enjoying the cliff-top views, or take a short trip to see Dover Castle too. Dover Castle is one of England’s biggest castles and was built in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Ironically, he built it to stop anyone from invading the country using the way in which he’d invaded it himself!

A visit to the Castle includes exploration of the tunnels that go deep into the cliffs, where you can learn all about the dramatic evacuation from Dunkirk and see the Underground Hospital that was used to treat injured soldiers in WWII.

How to visit. Dover is about 80 miles southeast of London. You can take a direct train to Dover from London and visit the town and the castle, and take a walk along the shore from where you can admire the beautiful white cliffs. Alternatively, you can also visit here with some day tours from London – see below.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that visit Dover from London, usually in combination with a few other places and Dover is often not more than a short photo stop. Here are the most popular day tours:

• Dover, Leeds Castle & Canterbury Cathedral – the most popular and best price/quality tour from London.
• Dover, Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral & Greenwich – quite a full day, but you get to see a lot in a short time.

13. Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is a very impressive country house in Woodstock, about 65 miles northwest of London. This is England’s only non-royal country house that actually holds the title of a palace.

The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill currently the home of the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Blenheim Palace is a stunning example of 18th-century Baroque architecture. During your visit, you will see the magnificent staterooms, which are filled with priceless works of art and beautiful tapestries. A grade I listed building and World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace also contains the finest collection of antiques to be found anywhere in Europe.

The gardens – set within over 754 hectares of land – are particularly wonderful to explore. Designed by the English landscape architect Capability Brown, there are several formal gardens to enjoy. Don’t miss the Rose Garden, the exquisite Water Terraces, the Secret Gardens, and the family-friendly Pleasure Gardens.

Historical monuments can be seen throughout, including the Column of Victory (built to commemorate the Duke of Marlborough’s military successes), the Grand Bridge which spans the two lakes and The Temple of Diana, where Sir Winston Churchill proposed to his future wife.

There are also a few recommended walks to take. Possibly the most beautiful is The Lake and Grand Cascade walk, which gives you breathtaking views of the countryside.

Good to know: The Palace and the grounds are so big and have so much to offer that you can easily spend an entire day here. In fact, many people find that one day isn’t even enough and many locals get a yearly pass for the Palace. However, many tours only spend a few hours here and just cover the main highlights. So how to visit depends on what you want to see and do here.

How to visit. The easiest way to visit Blenheim Palace is by car or with a tour, but you can also get here by public transport. From London Paddington Station, take a train to Hanborough (a bit over 1 hour), and from there, take a bus to the palace (it takes 7-10 minutes). If you want to spend an entire day at the palace, this is the best way to visit on a day trip from London.

Best tours from London. There are several tours that shortly visit Blenheim Palace from London. The best tour that spends more time at Palace is this Blenheim Palace, Downton Abbey Village & the Cotswolds tour. This tour also includes a few short photo stops at other popular locations nearby.

14. Downton Abbey Filming Locations

Downton Abbey filming locations close to Oxford and the Cotswolds make another popular day trip destination from London. There are two main places that you’ll want to see here – Bampton village and Highclere Castle .

Highclere Castle is a beautiful building and another fine example of luxurious life in the English countryside. It has been used for various film sets but became hugely popular since the filming of the TV series Downton Abbey . It’s now a very popular place to visit from Oxford or from London. The castle belongs to the Carnarvon family and is kept as it is, without turning it into a ‘theme park’ like some other castles in the area.

Another must-see for Downton Abbey fans is the beautiful village of Bampton . You’ll recognize many of the buildings here from the series, and it’s great fun to try to spot them during your visit!

Be sure to locate the home of Isobel Crawley, the church (actually named St. Mary’s), two fictional pubs – the Grantham Arms and the Dog and Duck – plus the Downton Cottage Hospital. The building used for the hospital is, in reality, the Bampton Community Archive, which houses a collection of old photos of the village and its people.

Bampton is a lovely village to visit in its own right. It is mentioned in the Domesday book of 1086 and was already a large settlement during the era of the Norman Conquest. On the other hand, it’s so small that you don’t need much time here.

How to visit. Highclere Castle is located about 65 miles (105 km) west of London, whereas Bampton village is about 30-40 miles from here, very close to Oxford. The best way to visit these places is either by car or by taking a tour.

Best tours from London. There are several tours visiting Downton Abbey filming locations from London. Some of the tours also visit Oxford, some others pass several villages of Cotswolds as well. This tour has the most complete itinerary covering most of the Downton Abbey filming locations.

The picturesque village of Lacock in rural Wiltshire near Bath is another place often visited on day tours from London. It’s a small village and you don’t need much time here, but it’s well worth a stop if touring the area.

The historic village of Lacock looks much as it did two centuries ago. Founded in the Saxon era, Lacock’s buildings originally made up part of a monastery complex (be sure to visit Lacock Abbey !). In the 19th century, it lost its main source of income from the wool industry, so very little development has taken place since then.

This means that this unspoiled little village gives an authentic look into days gone by. In fact, you can still see an old workhouse and medieval tithe barn in addition to the traditional stone cottages, with classic English pubs dotted throughout.

The village’s beauty makes it a popular choice as a TV and film location. Scenes from Pride and Prejudice were filmed here and Lacock Abbey was also used to film parts of Harry Potter.

Lacock was also used in Downtown Abbey, but because of its location, it’s usually a place you’d visit in combination with Bath and Stonehenge and not together with Highclere castle or Bampton. Unless you drive – in that case, you could make your own tour covering all three.

How to visit. Because of its rural location, Lacock is best visited by car or with a tour.

Best tours from London. There are many tours that stop in Lacock, usually in combination with a visit to Bath, Stonehenge, sometimes also with Windsor Castle. This is the most popular tour that also brings you to Lacock (in addition to Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath).

16. Warwick Castle

If you want to visit a real medieval castle near London, consider a day trip to Warwick Castle . With a history that goes back over 1000 years, a visit here takes you on a journey back in time, to a world of historic myths and battles for the English throne, but also lavish banquets, and royal splendor.

The castle was originally built as a wooden fort in 1068 and was rebuilt in stone in the 12th century. As you arrive, you enter over the footbridge and find an impressive medieval castle with ramparts and towers. You can climb the stairs of the castle walls and explore this impressive castle inside out.

A visit to Warwick Castle is very different than the others mentioned in this guide – it has something of a theme park feel if you like. There are various events, shows, attractions, archery and sword lessons, and lots of other fun experiences all year round.

This is one of those places where locals visit with their children during weekends and school holidays, but it’s also fun and entertaining for tourists. Even more so if you are traveling with a family.

How to visit. Warwick Castle is located about 100 miles (160km), 2 hours drive from London. If you want to spend more time at the castle, by far the easiest way to visit Warwick from London for a day is by train.

There are direct trains from London Marylebone Station to Warwick Railway Station, the journey takes about 1.5 hours. From the station, it’s about 20-30 minutes walk to the castle. Be sure to check the official website of the castle for more info and book your tickets in advance!

Best tours from London. Most tours from London that visit Warwick Castle do this in combination with Oxford and Stratford. Some also stop at one or two villages in the Cotswolds. Here you can find a selection of tours that include a visit to Warwick Castle .

17. Liverpool & The Beatles

While not exactly next door, we feel that Liverpool also deserves a mention as a place that you can visit on a day trip from London. If you are a fan of The Beatles , a visit here is a bucket-list experience and well worth the journey.

A visit to Liverpool gives a fascinating look into the lives and times of 4 local lads who formed what would become one of the most famous bands in the world. A good starting point from which to enjoy this vibrant Victorian city is the Royal Albert Dock, which is made up of refurbished dock warehouses and is now packed with restaurants, cafes, and many attractions.

The Beatles Story is an award-winning, permanent exhibition totally devoted to the Fab Four! Located on the Dock, it contains lots of authentic memorabilia and provides an immersive experience for visitors. Even children are catered for in the Exhibitions Discovery Zone. Be sure to reserve your tickets in advance !

Another interesting part of the visit for die-hard Beatles fans is the Magical Mystery Tour , which you take via a colorful tour bus that sets off from the Royal Albert Dock. In addition to the birthplaces, homes, schools, and original workplaces of the Beatles, you will also see the places that inspired some of their greatest hits, including Penny Lane and Strawberry Field.

READ ALSO: Best Things to Do in Liverpool

How to visit. The best way to visit Liverpool as a day trip from London is by taking a train (going by car would be about 4 hours one way). The journey by train takes 2 – 2.5 hours and there are many trains throughout the day, but be sure to book in advance and start your day as early as possible!

Once in Liverpool, you can take the earlier-mentioned Magical Mystery bus tour. Definitely visit the Beatles Story exhibition as well!

TIP: If you find it overwhelming to arrange everything yourself, you can also book a day tour to Liverpool from London. Most of these ‘tours’ are actually individual trips where everything from train tickets to all activities is pre-arranged for you. See below.

Best tours from London. This Liverpool and The Beatles day tour is the most popular and probably the best option. It includes reserved train seats, an entry to the Beatles Story exhibition, and also a ticket to the 2-hour Magical Mystery Tour!

Good to know: The above-mentioned tour from London to Liverpool starts at Euston Station in London and is normally available every day except Sundays. You’ll have to meet their representative at the station at 6.30 AM, so prepare for this to be a long day!

LEARN MORE: How to Plan a Day Trip to Liverpool from London

Map of the best places to visit as a day trip from London & practical info

To give you a better idea of where all these places are located, we created a map indicating all the best day trip destinations from London mentioned in this guide. You can click on the map below in order to see it on Google Maps.

Good to know: As already mentioned, many of the most popular day trip destinations from London can be visited with organized tours or by train .

We don’t recommend renting a car if you are staying in London – the traffic is so busy in and around the city that it would be a nightmare for someone who’s not used to it. Renting a car would only make sense if you are planning a longer road trip, outside of the cities.

For organized tours , we recommend booking via the GetYourGuide website . They have a great selection of tours at the most competitive rates and the best cancelation policy and customer service out there. We personally book all tickets and tours via this website when we travel anywhere in the world.

So, this is our guide to some of the most popular day trips and tours from London. I hope that this helps you choose a few nice places to visit near London and make your trip even more memorable.

For more travel inspiration for London and the UK, please see our featured articles below. Check it out!

More travel tips and inspiration for London:

• Must-see in London: Top London Attractions
• Hidden Gems of London
• Camden Market
• What to See in Camden Town
• Best Views in London
• London Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in London
• 1 Day in London
• 2-day London Itinerary
• London with Kids
• Family Afternoon Tea in London
• Best Things to Do in Greenwich
• Painted Hall
• Queen’s House and Tulip Stairs

READ ALSO: Traditional British Food & Where to Try It in the UK

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

More travel tips and inspiration for all over the UK:

• Cities: Best Cities to Visit in the UK
• Cornwall: Best Places to Visit in Cornwall & Where to Stay in Cornwall
• Yorkshire: Yorkshire Day Trips
• Liverpool: Best Things to Do in Liverpool & The Beatles in Liverpool
• Manchester: Best Things to Do in Manchester & 1-day Manchester Itinerary
• Scotland: Isle of Skye Itinerary & Scotland Whisky Tour
• Edinburgh: Top Places to See in Edinburgh & One Day in Edinburgh & Tips for Visiting Edinburgh
• Glasgow: One Day in Glasgow
• Seaside: Best Things to Do in Blackpool & Blackpool Travel Tips & Places to See Near Blackpool
• …for more destinations, check our UK travel guide .
• Read also: How to Plan a Trip to Europe

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Lacinda Mena

Tuesday 2nd of May 2023

I am traveling with a group of six. We would like to depart London on September 4 and view Stonehedge, Windsor, and Bath on our way to Southampton. Do you know of any tours that would offer this service?

Hi Lacinda, no, I don't personally know any tours that offer this kind of service. I found this private tour that visits all the places that you mentioned from London. It's one of the cheapest and best-rated tours in its kind. However, I'm not sure if they wouldn't mind dropping you off somewhere else. You could probably book it and then contact them and ask what is possible. If it's not what you are looking for, you can cancel it. I see that the tour has free cancelation, so that's how I would do it. Otherwise, try to search the internet for private drivers and ask for a quote. Good luck!

Wednesday 26th of April 2023

Amazing blog! Was looking for something like this for my trip to London in a few days, and this has been really useful information; the detail with which you describe are amazing. Plus the alternatives to get there and the map, loved it all! Thanks for taking the time.

Thursday 27th of April 2023

Glad to help and thanks a lot for taking the time to leave this kind feedback, Alex! Have a great trip!

Wednesday 15th of February 2023

Awesome! Thanks for the info!

Saturday 4th of February 2023

This was great information. Thanks

Monday 6th of February 2023

Glad to help. Have a great time in the UK!

Thursday 15th of December 2022

Love this blog!!! I am planning a trip to London with my son in February! This is exactly the information we are looking for! Super helpful!!

Friday 16th of December 2022

Glad to help, Holley. Have a great time in London!

Memorial Day weekend 2024 travel will be busiest at these times: How to avoid traffic jams

If you’re traveling for Memorial Day weekend , be prepared to run into some crowds. The next holiday weekend – taking place May 25 to 27 – is slated to see a record-breaking number of travelers, according to AAA. 

A projected 43.8 million Americans are expected to pack their bags for trips over 50 miles or more over the holiday weekend – a 4% increase from last year and close to 2005’s previous record of 44 million. 

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, in a press release. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”

Both roads and airports will be extremely busy, with a historic number of roadtrippers since AAA began tracking data in 2000. That’s 38.4 million drivers, up 4% from last year. 

A predicted 3.51 million airline passengers are expected to hit the skies over the holiday weekend, a 4.8% increase from 2023. This will make for the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, AAA said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Here’s everything you need to know about traffic if you’re hoping for a Memorial Day weekend getaway.

Summer is just around the corner. Here's everything you need to know for your summertime trip.

What are the most popular destinations for Memorial Day weekend travel?

Most popular domestic destinations:

• Las Vegas, 
• Anaheim/Los Angeles

Most popular international destinations:

• Vancouver, Canada

What are the best times to drive for Memorial Day weekend? 

To avoid the worst traffic, drivers leaving for their long weekend trip on Thursday, May 23, and Friday, May 24, should hit the road before 11 a.m. or after 7 p.m. Thursday and 8 p.m. Friday. 

Travelers driving on Saturday, May 25, who leave before 1 p.m. and after 6 p.m., will be able to avoid the worst traffic jams. On Sunday, drivers should head out before 1 p.m. to avoid the worst congestion. 

Travelers returning home on Monday, May 27, should embark after 7 p.m. if they want to dodge peak traffic. 

What are the worst times to drive by car for Memorial Day weekend?

Travelers should expect the worst traffic on Thursday between noon and 6 p.m. 

Friday between noon and 7 p.m. since they’ll encounter commuter congestion as well. 

Over the weekend, peak traffic is anticipated to be between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturday and between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Sunday. 

On Memorial Day, drivers heading back home can expect peak traffic between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m., aka peak rush hour time.

Peak congestion times in major US cities

Travelers who are going through major metropolitan areas should unfortunately expect travel times to be up to 90% longer than usual, according to Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. “Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” Pishue said in a statement. 

• Worst route: Atlanta to Savannah via I-16 E
• Worst day: Saturday, May 25
• Worst time: 4:45 p.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 5 hours, 31 minutes
• 54% increased travel time
• Worst route: Manchester to Boston via I-93 S
• Worst day: Sunday, May 26
• Worst time: 8:45 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 48 minutes
• 50% increased travel time 
• Worst route: Milwaukee to Chicago via I-94 E 
• Worst time: 4:30 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 25 minutes
• 27% increased travel time
• Worst route: Fort Collins to Denver via I-25 
• Worst time: 4:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 24 minutes
• 56% increased travel time

Los Angeles

• Worst route: LA to Bakersfield via I-5 N 
• Worst day: Thursday, May 23
• Worst time: 6:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 45 minutes
• 84% increased travel time
• Worst route: New York to Albany via I-87N 
• Worst time: 11:45 a.m. 
• Estimated travel time: 2 hours, 37 minutes

Philadelphia

• Worst route: Philadelphia to Baltimore/DC 
• Worst day: Friday, May 24
• Worst time: 7:30 a.m.
• 64% increased travel time

San Francisco

• Worst route:  San Francisco to Napa via I-80 E
• Worst time: 11 a.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 34 minutes

Washington, D.C.

• Worst route: Washington, DC to Baltimore via Balt/Wash Pkwy N 
• Worst time: 2:15 p.m.
• Estimated travel time: 1 hour, 21 minutes
• 72% increased travel time

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Top Things to Do

Things to Do with Kids

Shopping in San Antonio

Best Museums

Outdoor Activities

Missions in San Antonio

San Antonio River Walk

Top Restaurants

Foods to Try

Best Breweries

Must-Try Margaritas

Nightlife in San Antonio

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Public Transportation

Airport Guide

Neighborhoods to Check Out

The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From San Antonio

History, Nature and Culture Abound in South-Central Texas

San Antonio’s geographic location in south-central Texas provides easy access to rolling hills, pristine streams, tranquil lakes and the multifaceted Texas coast. No matter which direction you choose to drive, you’re not far from adventure. 

Fredericksburg

When German pioneers settled the area in the mid-1800s, many of them built small “Sunday houses” in town in addition to their primary residences on nearby farms. Since traveling by horse-and-buggy was slow and arduous, it was a hassle to ride into town and back just to attend church on Sundays. These smaller houses allowed them to make a weekend of it. They’d arrive in town on Saturday, run a few errands, stay overnight, and then head back to the farm after church. Many of these Sunday houses have been turned into lodging, and have played a key role in Fredericksburg becoming such a popular weekend destination. Amid these historic bed-and-breakfasts, you’ll also find trendy restaurants, wine bars, music venues, and theaters. About 20 miles north of Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is a great spot for a morning hike. Climbing the dome-shaped hunk of pink granite is only mildly strenuous, and you’ll be rewarded with a 360-degree view of the Texas Hill Country. 

New Braunfels

Another town with a strong German heritage, New Braunfels is best known as the home of the Schlitterbahn Waterpark . Many of the park’s rides are fueled by cool, all-natural river water that is pumped right back into the river after flowing through the park. The park includes slow-moving waterways for tubing as well as opportunities for high adventure, such as the Boogie Bahn surfing ride. For a mellower experience, head to the nearby Gruene Historic District and shop for antiques, souvenirs, and handcrafted gifts. When you’re ready for lunch, you’ll be within walking distance of the Gristmill Restaurant . The rustic building is perched on the banks of the Guadalupe River and features several levels of seating overlooking the beautiful scenery. If you plan to stick around into the evening, you can catch both local and high-profile country music acts at Gruene Hall . A few miles west of New Braunfels, Natural Bridge Caverns is an excellent low-key adventure on a hot day. It’s always about 70 degrees underground. 

Water recreation is also a key attraction in San Marcos, but the emphasis here is on the rivers themselves instead of waterparks. Several outfitters in and around the town offer two- to four-hour tubing excursions. Most have shuttle buses to pick you up and drop you off along the river. The Meadows Center for Water and the Environment (formerly known as Aquarena Springs) has glass-bottomed boats that cruise though the pristine Spring Lake. Expert guides will explain the plant life, turtles, fish and other flora and fauna that make up this delicate ecosystem. Bargain shoppers will enjoy the area’s two major outlet malls: San Marcos Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets . In the evenings, you can sit back with a beer and enjoy live music from local and regional bands at Cheatham Street Warehouse . 

Corpus Christi

About two hours south of San Antonio, Corpus Christi has beaches in addition to many of the other amenities you might expect from a mid-sized city. The Texas State Aquarium has massive indoor and outdoor tanks that feature a huge variety of species, including, sharks, tarpon and stingrays. It also focuses many of its exhibits on species and habitats from the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, which lies off the coast of southern Mexico and Central America. In the Stingray Lagoon, kids can even touch the stingrays. For a dose of military history, head to the USS Lexington , a massive aircraft carrier docked within walking distance of the aquarium. It has a flight simulator, nautical artifacts and even an on-board restaurant. When you’re ready for a swim, Malaquite Beach features a visitor center and miles of unspoiled beaches. Even though Hurricane Harvey hit the region in August 2017, Corpus Christi dodged the worst of the storm. Nearby cities Port Aransas and Rockport were more heavily damaged and are still in the process of rebuilding.

Garner State Park

The most popular state park in Texas, Garner has been a favorite summer destination for some families for generations. Situated on the Frio River, the park has excellent swimming, biking, kayaking and fishing opportunities. Featuring higher hills and deeper, more dramatic canyons than the rest of the Hill Country, Garner State Park is a photographer’s dream. Though they can be difficult to spot, the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo often nest in heavily wooded areas. There’s also a tubing outfitter on-site as well as a putt-putt golf course. If you stay into the evening during the summer, you can experience the park’s most cherished tradition: a nightly dance for all ages at the central pavilion. A short drive from the park, Frio Bat Flight offers an amazing bat-viewing opportunity. At sunset, about ten million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from Frio Cave. As the bats fly out in search of bugs to eat, red-tailed hawks and peregrine falcons swoop in and try to pick off a few bats to eat. It may be a little too brutal for young kids, but adult nature buffs will enjoy this fast-moving natural spectacle.

For two weeks in May and June every year, the Kerrville Folk Festival attracts world-class songwriters and some of the most loyal fans imaginable. The regular attendees refer to themselves affectionately as “Kerrverts,” and some of them arrive on the festival grounds days before the festival to set up their own little villages within the campground. After the on-stage performances every night, professional and amateur musicians alike sing around campfires, often until dawn. The rest of the year, Kerrville is a sleepy town with plenty of antique shops, locally owned restaurants, and a few art galleries. The Museum of Western Art exhibits a wide array of paintings and sculptures depicting cowboys, ranching and frontier life. Beautifully situated on a hilltop, Kerrville Hills Winery offers daily tastings and winery tours.

If you’re looking for a small-town getaway near San Antonio that’s not overrun by tourists in summer, Wimberley is always a good option. The “downtown” area is so small you can explore all of it in about 30 minutes. If you have kids in tow, make sure and stop at the Emily Ann Theatre & Gardens . The community theater presents plays for both kids and adults, ranging from "Princess and the Pea" to "Pride and Prejudice." Even when there’s not a performance going on, the 12-acre property offers plenty of adventure for the little ones. Wayne’s Meadow is home to ten kid-friendly gardens, including a life-size chess set and a butterfly garden. For an all-natural and refreshing swimming experience, Blue Hole is a nearby spring-fed swimming hole complete with a rope swing. Bring a picnic lunch, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on the lush grass along the banks of the creek. Open only during summer, Jacob's Well is another one-of-a-kind swimming hole in Wimberley, and it's part of an extensive cave system connected to the Edwards Aquifer. The cool water bubbles up from underground to create this all-natural swimming spot. You can work up a sweat before your swim on the park's extensive network of nature trails.

The Cibolo Nature Center in Boerne (pronounced Bernie ) is an ideal spot for a brisk morning hike. Several miles of nature trails wind through a variety of landscapes, including meadows, dense woods, and rolling hills. The half-mile Marshland Trail is an easy walk along a boardwalk that offers abundant opportunities to see wildlife in the sky and water. You’ll see turtles, ducks and maybe even a stunning kingfisher diving for its prey. Despite its lackluster moniker, the Cave Without a Name is one of the most gorgeous natural features in Texas. The rippled walls and ceiling almost seem to be in motion. Concerts are sometimes held in the cave, which offers remarkable acoustics. To combine an afternoon snack with a little shopping, check out Carousel Antiques & Fickle Pickles . While these are pricey pickles, regular customers swear by these tart treats. Some have a little extra zing, with flavors ranging from garlic to jalapeno. The selection of antiques is fairly small, but it adds an interesting twist to your pickle shopping. 

For a rousing start to your day in Helotes, head to Helotes Hill Country Ziplines . The nine lines range in height from 100 feet to a stomach-turning 1,000 feet. On the fastest ones, you’ll be soaring up to 35 mph. After such an exhilarating experience, you may need a glass of wine. Helotes Creek Winery is a charming little winemaker located along a narrow country road. You won’t find any snootiness here—just tasty reds, whites, cheese plates and the occasional cranapple wine slushie. The winery even has a ladies’ night on Wednesdays. For your evening entertainment, Floore’s Country Store is a one-of-a-kind music venue housed in an old dance hall. The name seems to imply that it used to be a store, but it’s been a dance hall and honky-tonk since it opened in 1942. The name is simply another example of Texas eccentricity at its finest. Willie Nelson once played here regularly and still stops by every now and then. The music schedule mostly consists of up-and-coming country singers with a few national acts sprinkled in. 

Johnson City

The childhood home of President Lyndon Baines Johnson, Johnson City is also one of the most beautiful small towns in Texas. It’s situated amid rolling hills and verdant pastures dotted with sprawling old oak trees. Free tours of LBJ’s boyhood home start every half hour on the house’s front porch. Look up and you’ll see that the ceiling of the front porch is painted sky blue. This was done often in early Texas houses because it was believed that wasps wouldn’t build nests on a blue ceiling because, well, it looked like the sky. In March 1937, it was on this very porch that Lyndon Baines Johnson announced his first run for Congress. The modest home was restored and furnished to be historically accurate for the mid-1920s period.

The LBJ Ranch is just a few miles down the road. You can now get a driving permit and tour parts of the ranch without supervision; However, an expert guide will help you appreciate the ranch’s role in history. Make sure you stop and check out LBJ’s famous floating car. LBJ used to toy with reporters by touring the ranch in the car and then—without warning—driving the car directly into a lake. No matter what you think of his policies, LBJ was undoubtedly one of the nation’s most interesting presidents.

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Watch CBS News

Memorial Day weekend 2024 could be busiest for travel in nearly 20 years

By Kris Van Cleave

Updated on: May 14, 2024 / 4:04 PM EDT / CBS News

This year is expected to be one of the busiest travel years in nearly two decades, with about 43.8 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles, according to AAA.

Joy Noelle Balanag booked her vacation months ago, hoping to beat the potentially record-breaking summer rush.

"I definitely am excited for this travel season. 2024 feels just like almost a breath of fresh air," she told CBS News. "I do plan on traveling on airplanes. I do plan on taking my car. Just, like, seeing where this summer season takes me."

Balanag won't be alone. This Memorial Day weekend, AAA is expecting a nearly 5% bump in airline travel over last year and United Airlines alone is planning to fly more than half a million people a day from May 23 through May 28, which would be the airline's busiest Memorial Day weekend ever. Delta is expecting 3 million passengers total over that same stretch, a 5% increase for the airline from 2023. American Airlines said it's preparing for 3.9 million customers over the long Memorial Day weekend.

Most travelers will drive that weekend, however, with AAA predicting a record 38.4 million people will hit the road. That's a 4% increase from last year. Gas prices are similar to where they were last year, up about 8 cents a gallon nationally compared to last Memorial Day weekend.

"It goes back to that bucket list, YOLO, you only live once mentality, Aixa Diaz of AAA told CBS News. "A lot of people are now going, 'You know what? Let's not take those trips we always take with our families. Let's get a little bit more adventurous.'"

One of the fastest-growing travel options since the COVID-19 pandemic is cruising.

The industry is expecting a new record high of nearly 35 million passengers this year, according to the Cruise Lines International Association. For the thousands on board the Carnival Firezne cruise ship's inaugural sold-out sailing, which began in late April, vacation season started early.

Passenger Jeanine Stage of Arizona told CBS News what she likes best about cruising is, "That you get to go to multiple destinations and you unpack your suitcase once."

"You got food, entertainment, even the casino, if you're into that, there's shows," she said.

All told, AAA is predicting 2024 will finish just narrowly behind 2005 as the busiest Memorial Day travel weekend since it began keeping track in 2000.

AAA expects the busiest time on the roads will be from noon to 7 p.m. on the Thursday and Friday before Memorial Day. United Airlines said that Thursday will be its busiest of the holiday weekend.

Among the top destinations this year: Florida, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and Denver.

• Memorial Day

Emmy Award-winning journalist Kris Van Cleave is the senior transportation correspondent for CBS News based in Phoenix, Arizona, where he also serves as a national correspondent reporting for all CBS News broadcasts and platforms.

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REI Is Dropping Memorial Day Discounts Early This Year — Shop the 50 Best Outdoor Deals From Just $5

From Teva Sandals to Vuori loungewear, you won’t be able to resist these travel-ready markdowns.

Best Overall Deals

Best travel bag and luggage deals, best travel accessory deals, best active footwear and hiking shoe deals.

• Best Women's Apparel Deals
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Best Camping and Hiking Deals

Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

Memorial Day Weekend is just around the corner, and while you can typically expect to enjoy an onslaught of sales during the date itself, one retailer is offering their deals a little early this year: REI. The outdoor giant has already begun slashing prices across its site to help you prepare for your summer agenda, and from convenient and spacious luggage options to the highest quality apparel and footwear , we can’t believe our eyes with some of these prices.

No matter what your outdoor hobby of choice is, there’s something for everyone already discounted at REI. So, to make your life a little easier, we’ve rounded up the 50 best deals hiding in plain sight, so you don’t have to empty out your wallet to get the gear upgrade you deserve. Whether you’re seeking a new hiking backpack , a supportive pair of sandals , or even a brand-new tent to level-up your campground, you’ll have no trouble finding competitively priced essentials below, starting at just $5.

The deals at REI leading into Memorial Day Weekend are perfectly tailored to help you stock up on the final items you’ll need for your summer adventures. From backpacks and suitcases to hiking-ready footwear and apparel, it won’t be difficult to find exactly what you’re looking for (and more). The Alder Get Dirty Dress 2.0 is currently on sale for a whopping 50 percent off and is the workout outfit of your dreams, seeing as it features not only two pockets, but also built-in shorts, too. Meanwhile, if you’ve been on the lookout for some new luggage, The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel 32L is practically made for long weekends away, while the REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set will allow you to fit everything inside with ease at a price point of just $31.

• Outdoor Research Field Explorer Pack 25L , $80 (originally $140)
• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Duffel 32L , $89 (originally $125)
• REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set , $31 (originally $45)
• Veja Men’s Marlin Shoes , $105 (originally $210)
• Salomon Cross Hike 4 Mid Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Boots , $95 (originally $190)
• Alder Get Dirty Dress 2.0 , $52 (originally $105)
• Adidas Terrex Xperior Hybrid Primeknit Rain.Rdy Men’s Jacket , $140 (originally $280)
• Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 4 , $65 (originally $150)
• Mountain Summit Gear Self-inflating 1.5 Camp Sleeping Pad , $35 (originally $70)
• Alder Adventure Perform Bike Shorts , $40 (originally $80)

Salomon Cross Hike 4 Mid Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Boots

Backpacks, duffels, and roller bags — oh my! REI may be an outdoor retailer, but that doesn’t mean that it’s lacking handy luggage to pack up for your next trip, and with prices sitting as low as $52, you may even want to snag more than one. Swap out your older roller duffel for the Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 40L Carry-on Wheeled Luggage , which is on sale for $250 for a limited time. And as for backpacks, you won’t want to miss the Outdoor Research Field Explorer Pack 25L which now boasts a significant 43 percent discount. And even if it’s a simple duffel you’re after, the REI Co-op Big Haul 28 Recycled Duffel Bag is a no-brainer at just $70.

• Patagonia Atom Tote Pack 20 L , $60 (originally $89)
• Sherpani Cabo Convertible Pack , $52 (originally $75)
• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Roller Bag , $197 (originally $280)
• Osprey Arcane Duffel Pack , $105 (originally $140)
• Mountain Hardwear Camp 4 Duffel 65L , $98 (originally $140)
• Fjallraven S/F Cave Pack , $78 (originally $130)
• REI Co-op Big Haul 28 Recycled Duffel Bag , $70 (originally $100)
• Eagle Creek Tarmac XE 2-Wheel 40L Carry-on Wheeled Luggage , $250 (originally $339)

Outdoor Research Field Explorer Pack 25L

Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hopping between continents, REI has never failed to deliver on the smartest travel accessories to make your excursions significantly easier. Disorganized travelers will want to take this opportunity to snatch up the Thule Subterra PowerShuttle Travel Case while it’s $21, while The North Face Base Camp Voyager Toiletry Kit will also make packing and heading through TSA a breeze. The Patagonia Stealth Hip Pack can be worn across your body for easy access to your passport and other travel documents while you’re in the airport, but it also doubles as a hands-free solution during hiking and sightseeing days — and it’s 32 percent off. 

• Nikon Trailblazer ATB Waterproof 8x25 Binoculars , $65 (originally $90)
• Hydro Flask Coffee Cup with Flex Sip Lid , $26 (originally $35)
• Thule Subterra PowerShuttle Travel Case , $21 (originally $30)
• The North Face Base Camp Voyager Toiletry Kit , $29 (originally $40)
• Patagonia Stealth Hip Pack , $115 (originally $169)
• Coghlan’s Reusable Squeeze Tubes , $5 (originally $7)
• Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Sack , $42 (originally $60)
• Zoleo Satellite Communicator , $150 (originally $200)
• JBL Clip 4 Eco Speaker , $50 (originally $80)

Thule Subterra PowerShuttle Travel Case

A good pair of shoes is quite literally the base of every activity, so you won’t want to skimp on support whether you’re hiking or heading off on a lengthy walking tour. With this in mind, the Salomon Cross Hike 4 Mid Gore-Tex Women’s Hiking Boots are 50 percent off, making them one of the top deals available at REI right now — and they’ll ensure that you remain fresh on your feet even after hours of peak bagging. As for sandals, the Teva Zymic Women’s Sandals are also a mere $60 right now and are well-cushioned enough to take on a wide range of terrain. And don’t worry, men’s footwear has also seen a significant price slash, with the Veja Men’s Marlin Shoes coming in at just $105 for a limited time. 

• Timberland Mt. Maddsen Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots , $90 (originally $120)
• Altra Rivera 3 Women’s Road Running Shoes , $100 (originally $140)
• Keen Newport Men’s Retro Sandals , $81 (originally $125)
• Teva Zymic Women’s Sandals , $60 (originally $80)
• La Sportiva TX Hike GTX Men’s Hiking Shoes , $130 (originally $179)
• Ales Grey Women’s Malibu Recovery Slide Sandals , $42 (originally $60)
• Danner Women’s Arctic 600 Side-Zip Boots , $140 (originally $280)
• Brooks Glycerin Men’s StealthFit 20 Road Running Shoes , $111 (originally $160)

Veja Men’s Marlin Shoes

Best women's apparel deals.

Whether you prefer to take on your travels in shorts, pants, or even dresses, REI’s Memorial Day deals allow you the option to have it all, with prices starting as low as $40 on the chafe-proof Alder Adventure Perform Bike Shorts . If you’re tired of being eaten alive by bugs while enjoying your time in the woods, then you certainly won’t want to leave the ExOfficio BugsAway Everyday Woven Pants unclaimed at $83. Meanwhile, the Royal Robbins Jammer Shorts offer an adjustable waistband that ensures maximum comfort without dealing with too-tight material digging into your skin. Plus, how could you resist snagging the Vuori Rib Crop Tank Top when it’s 50 percent off and guaranteed to keep you comfy during the entirety of your travels?

• Vuori Rib Crop Tank Top , $32 (originally $64)
• ExOfficio BugsAway Everyday Woven Pants , $83 (originally $110)
• Royal Robbins Jammer Shorts , $57 (originally $75)

Vuori Rib Crop Tank Top

Best men's apparel deals.

If you’ve been holding out on replacing the holes in your closet created by a good spring cleaning, your wait is finally over, because REI has everything you need to take on the trails (and the city streets) in style. Exhibit A: the Smartwool Active Lined 5-inch Shorts , which will keep you cool and relaxed whether you’re heading out for a morning jog or preparing for an all-day hike. We all know that airplane cabins are notorious for their fickle temperatures, which is why the Columbia Men’s Helvetia Fleece Hoodie will make for a worthwhile addition to your carry-on to best prepare you for your flight. And seeing as spring showers have yet to fully cease, you’ll never regret having the Adidas Terrex Xperior Hybrid Primeknit Rain.Rdy Men’s Jacket at the ready — especially considering it’s now 50 percent off.

• Columbia Men’s Helvetia Fleece Hoodie , $45 (originally $90)
• Kuhl Renegade Men’s Shorts , $60 (originally $79)
• Outdoor Research Argon T-shirt , $40 (originally $55)
• Smartwool Active Lined 5-inch Shorts , $49 (originally $65)

Columbia Men’s Helvetia Fleece Hoodie

Camping and hiking season is officially underway, but it’s never too late to give your gear lineup a vital upgrade before your big trip of the summer. Right now, shoppers can score the Alpine Mountain Gear Weekender Tent 4 for a staggering 56 percent off, while even the Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair now boasts a 46 percent off price slash. Sleeping under the stars doesn’t mean sacrificing actual good sleep, and the Mountain Summit Gear Self-inflating 1.5 Camp Sleeping Pad will make a world of difference at $35. Top off your sleeping situation with the iconic Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket while it’s $108, and we won’t be surprised if you find your campground to be more comfortable than your actual home. 

• Big Agnes Big Six Camp Chair , $108 (originally $200)
• Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket , $108 (originally $145)
• Arc-teryx Aerios 30 Pack , $142 (originally $190)
• REI Co-op Outward Hammock , $99 (originally $199)
• CTR Boonie Hat , $25 (originally $32)
• Ledlenser ML6 Rechargeable Electric Lantern , $53 (originally $90)
• Alps Mountaineering Utility Table , $98 (originally $200)
• Big Agnes Sidewinder Camp 20 Sleeping Bag , $140 (originally $190)

REI Co-op Outward Hammock

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AAA Newsroom

Automotive, Travel, and Traffic Safety Information

Nearly 44 Million Travelers Leaving Town for Unofficial Start of Summer

Second highest memorial day holiday travel forecast since aaa began tracking in 2000.

WASHINGTON, DC (May 13, 2024) – AAA projects 43.8 million travelers will head 50 miles or more from home over the Memorial Day holiday travel period*. This year’s total number of travelers is a 4% increase over last year and comes close to matching 2005’s record of 44 million Memorial Day travelers.  

“We haven’t seen Memorial Day weekend travel numbers like these in almost 20 years,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re projecting an additional one million travelers this holiday weekend compared to 2019, which not only means we’re exceeding pre-pandemic levels but also signals a very busy summer travel season ahead.”   

Road trips are expected to set a record. AAA projects 38.4 million people will travel by car over Memorial Day weekend, the highest number for that holiday since AAA began tracking in 2000. The number of drivers this year is up 4% compared to last year and 1.9% higher than in 2019. Traveling by car is appealing for many people because of the convenience and flexibility it provides. AAA car rental partner Hertz says Orlando, Denver, Atlanta, Boston and Las Vegas are the cities displaying the highest rental demand , with the busiest pick-up days projected to be Thursday, May 23 and Friday, May 24.  

This Memorial Day weekend drivers can expect similar gas prices as last year when the national average was roughly $3.57.  Pump prices rose this spring but have held somewhat steady in recent weeks. Prices may creep higher as the summer driving season gets underway. The wildcard remains the cost of oil, and unlike last year, there are now two wars – in the Middle East and Ukraine – that could roil the oil market.  

Airports are bracing for a spike in travelers. AAA expects 3.51 million air travelers this holiday weekend, an increase of 4.8% over last year and 9% jump compared to 2019. This will be the most crowded Memorial Day weekend at airports since 2005, when 3.64 million flew for the holiday as the travel industry finally rebounded post 9/11. This Memorial Day weekend, air ticket prices are comparable to last year. AAA booking data shows a 1% to 2% increase in prices for domestic flights. Several factors play into how much travelers pay for airfare, including destination, number of stops, and fare class. For example, passengers who book nonstop flights with seat selection and carry-on bags included will likely pay more than those who select basic economy with a layover.  

  Nearly two million people are expected to travel by other modes of transportation, including buses, cruises, and trains. AAA projects 1.9 million people will take these other modes of transportation, an increase of 5.6% compared to last year. “This category took the biggest hit during the pandemic with fewer people taking public transportation or not cruising at all,” Twidale said. “Now – five years later – we’re back to 2019 numbers. Travel demand has been soaring, and long holiday weekends create the perfect windows for getaways.”  

Best/Worst Times to Drive and Peak Congestion by Metro 

INRIX , a provider of transportation data and insights, says drivers leaving Thursday or Friday should hit the road early to avoid mixing with commuters. Travelers going back home on Sunday or Monday should avoid the afternoon hours when return trips will peak.   

“Travel times are expected to be up to 90% longer than normal. Travelers should stay up to date on traffic apps, 511 services, and local news stations to avoid sitting in traffic longer than necessary,” said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX.  

Please note that the times listed below are for the time zone in which the metro is located.   

For example, Atlanta routes = ET and Los Angeles routes = PT

Source: INRIX   

Source: INRIX  

Top Destinations 

This Memorial Day weekend, travelers are seeking theme parks and entertainment venues in Orlando, New York, Las Vegas, and Southern California. Seattle, Anchorage, and Vancouver rank high because of the popularity of Alaska cruises this time of year. Florida beaches and cruise ports will also be packed. European cities dominate the international list. The top 10 domestic and international destinations below are based on AAA booking data.  

Travel Trends   

As travelers make plans for summer and beyond, AAA Travel has identified the following trends:  

• Bucket Lists : Travelers taking once-in-a-lifetime trips  
• Milestones : Families booking anniversary, retirement, and family reunion trips  
• Asia : More travelers interested in visiting Asia, especially Japan   
• Solo Trips : More people, especially women, interested in traveling by themselves  
• Luxury Vacations : More travelers seeking high-end cruises and tours  
• Trains : Many travelers interested in rail vacations across New England, Canada, and Europe  
• Adventure in Nature : Travelers booking trips to Antarctica, Africa, and South Pacific  

  Travel Agent Survey  

A recent survey of AAA travel agents highlights topics travelers are frequently discussing when booking trips:  

• Travel Insurance : 51 % of agents say more travelers are interested in protecting their trips  
• 77% of agents say ocean cruises  
• 70% of agents say all-inclusive vacations  
• 67% of agents say river cruises  

Holiday Travel Forecast Methodology   

In cooperation with AAA, S&P Global Market Intelligence (SPGMI) developed a unique methodology to forecast actual domestic travel volumes. The economic variables used to forecast travel for the current holiday are leveraged from SPGMI’s proprietary databases. These data include macroeconomic drivers such as employment, output, household net worth, asset prices, including stock indices, interest rates, housing market indicators, and variables related to travel and tourism, including gasoline prices, airline travel, and hotel stays. AAA and SPGMI have quantified holiday travel volumes going back to 2000.   

Historical travel volume estimates come from DK SHIFFLET’s TRAVEL PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM . The PERFORMANCE/Monitor SM is a comprehensive study measuring the travel behavior of U.S. residents. DK SHIFFLET contacts over 50,000 U.S. households each month to obtain detailed travel data, resulting in the unique ability to estimate visitor volume and spending, identify trends, and forecast U.S. travel behavior, all after the trips have been taken.  

The travel forecast is reported in person-trips. In particular, AAA and SPGMI forecast the total U.S. holiday travel volume and expected mode of transportation. The travel forecast presented in this report was prepared the week of April 15, 2024.   

*Memorial Day Holiday Travel Period   

For this forecast, the Memorial Day holiday travel period is defined as the five-day period from Thursday, May 23 to Monday, May 27, 2024.   

AAA Travel Agent Survey Methodology 

AAA clubs distributed surveys to a random sample of their travel agents between March 18 and March 29, 2024 to understand recent traveler trends over the past 60 days. 186 AAA agent responses were collected from 13 AAA clubs (representing 97% of AAA membership overall as of February 2024).  

About AAA    

Started in 1902 by automotive enthusiasts who wanted to chart a path for better roads in America and advocate for safe mobility, AAA has transformed into one of North America’s largest membership organizations. Today, AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of 64 million members across North America, including 57 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.   

About S&P Global   S&P Global (NYSE: SPGI) provides essential intelligence. We enable governments, businesses, and individuals with the right data, expertise, and connected technology so that they can make decisions with conviction. From helping our customers assess new investments to guiding them through ESG and energy transition across supply chains, we unlock new opportunities, solve challenges, and accelerate progress for the world. We are widely sought after by many of the world’s leading organizations to provide credit ratings, benchmarks, analytics, and workflow solutions in the global capital, commodity, and automotive markets. With every one of our offerings, we help the world’s leading organizations plan for tomorrow today. For more information, visit  www.spglobal.com .   

About DKSA    

DK SHIFFLET boasts the industry’s most complete database on U.S. resident travel both in the U.S. and worldwide. Data is collected monthly from a U.S. representative sample, adding over 60,000 traveling households annually, and is used daily by leading travel organizations and their strategic planning groups. DK SHIFFLET is an MMGY Global company.   

About INRIX     

Founded in 2004, INRIX pioneered intelligent mobility solutions by transforming big data from connected devices and vehicles into mobility insights. This revolutionary approach enabled INRIX to become one of the leading providers of data and analytics into how people move. By empowering cities, businesses, and people with valuable insights, INRIX is helping to make the world smarter, safer, and greener. With partners and solutions spanning across the entire mobility ecosystem, INRIX is uniquely positioned at the intersection of technology and transportation – whether it’s keeping road users safe, improving traffic signal timing to reduce delay and greenhouse gasses, optimizing last mile delivery, or helping uncover market insights. Learn more at INRIX.com.   

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

• The Best Running Shoes for Beginners

The Strategist happens to be full of runners, so this week we hit the ground running (literally), testing tons of running gear and interviewing experts to give every kind of runner all the intel they might need. Welcome to  Running Week .

When people ask me about the running shoes that I would recommend to them, especially if they’re new to running , I often tell them to go with what feels comfortable. That might sound like an oversimplification, since there are other factors at play in choosing the right shoe such as price, category of shoe, and what kind of running you’ll be doing. But comfort is a good place to start. Everyone has their own unique foot shape and needs, and despite what the shoe hype or Instagram ads might tell you, there is not one single shoe that will work for everyone. David Salas, a doctor of physical therapy and contributor to the review site Doctors of Running , agrees and adds, “Try a couple of different kinds of shoes on your feet and just see what generally feels the best for you.”

And if you’re getting back into running again, think about what shoes have worked for you in the past. “Figure out what aspects you liked, whether it was a certain fit or if it was a certain amount of cushion or if it was a certain feeling,” says Nathan Brown, a physical therapist at Pineries Running Lab . “Try to describe that and use that to decide what your next shoes are, and if you can, go test them out.”

There are a few shoes that will work for new runners because their neutral features — such as ample cushioning and non-aggressive designs that won’t pitch your feet one way or another — provide a balanced experience for beginners and can help them figure out whether they want different features in the next pair they get. Below, I’ve rounded up the best shoes for beginners, based on my own testing (I’ve run at least 100 miles in all but two of the shoes below) and recommendations from running experts. I’ve also added picks and testing notes from Strategist staffers.

Since its debut in 1999, the Asics Gel-Nimbus has been a reliable staple in the running-shoe world, and it’s since attracted a base of devotees, myself included. I ran in the Gel-Nimbus in high school and throughout college, and they’re still my most-used daily trainer . It’s the shoe I would recommend first to a new runner. As I mention in my guide to running shoes , the Gel-Nimbus is known for its maximal cushioning, especially in the heel: You can feel it even while standing in it; as you rock back onto your heels, you can feel them sink in, almost like a supportive yet springy pillow. It has Asics’s signature gel pod in the heel for shock absorption, and also has a stretchy, socklike upper and roomy toe box. If you prioritize a cushioned, stable ride, the Gel-Nimbus is likely a good match for you.

The Hoka Clifton might be the most popular and recognizable running shoe of the last five to ten years. At a time when minimalist (i.e., barefoot Vibram) shoes were trending, the brand introduced the opposite kind of shoe, one with a large stack height — another way to describe how much cushion is “stacked” between your foot and the ground. Although Hoka has a reputation for offering the most cushioned shoes you can buy, the Clifton 9 has a smaller stack height compared to the Gel-Nimbus and won’t feel as plush, but it has an accommodating toe box that will fit most people’s feet, and it comes in wide sizing, too. Brown, who runs in the Clifton 9 himself, says you can see Hoka’s influence on other shoes — including some on this list. “Ten years ago Hoka was very unique, and now everyone makes shoes very similar to what you see in a Hoka shoe. Every shoe has a slight forefoot or full-length rocker, more than 30 millimeters of stack, and sole flaring on the outside of the shoe. They definitely started a trend of footwear design.”

The Saucony Ride is another staple in the neutral shoe category, and I’ve found that each iteration of the shoe provides an even mix of support and responsiveness. It’s a traditional EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate foam, commonly found in midsoles) trainer, and it’s about as neutral a shoe as you can get. I’ve put in over 180 miles in my current pair, and I throw them on when I want to cruise and keep an easy, steady pace. It also comes recommended by Salas, who says he prefers a trainer like the Ride for the bulk of his daily runs.

While the Clifton 9 might be the most popular shoe in recent years, the Pegasus is by far the most iconic. It debuted over 40 years ago, and its classic design has made it a go-to pick as a neutral shoe for all types of runners, including beginners. The Pegasus isn’t a max-cushion shoe like the Gel-Nimbus, nor does it have the boxier shape of the Clifton. Like many of Nike’s athletic shoes, these generally work best with narrow feet (although you can get them in wide sizing). They have a slightly snappier, less-plush feel to their sole than either the Gel-Nimbus or Clifton. It’s a versatile shoe that can be used for long runs, short runs, and walking . If you’re new to running, the Pegasus is a great starter shoe because its neutral, straightforward design can inform what you might prefer in your next pair — be it one with a more aggressive rocker, one with more cushioning, or another pair of Pegs.

The Ghost is similar to the Saucony Ride in that it’s a reliable neutral shoe that runners of all levels will find useful as a daily training workhorse. Strategist writer Lauren Ro , who has been running for 17 years, says the Ghost is her “forever shoe.” When it comes to fit, the Ghost has a roomy toe box that might work best for folks with a narrower heel but a wider forefoot. “I have narrow feet but also bunions, and these accommodate them comfortably without feeling too wide or too narrow,” Ro says. “They’re lightweight, have good cushioning, help with my pronation, and I never think about them once they’re on. I use them mostly for walks and jogs in the park and will be wearing them in May when I’ll be running a half-marathon.”

If you prefer a soft, plush feel underfoot and want that sensation for every stride, you should check out a pair of New Balance 1080s. They come recommended by Strategist newsletter editor Ashley Wolfgang , who says that their cushioning has helped with her training: “When I first tried running in the New Balance 1080s, I thought they had too much cushion for my liking.” After she sustained a couple of injuries due to overuse, her physical therapist suggested she try them again as part of an easy return-to-running plan, noting that other clients love the shoe. “I surprised myself by how good they felt,” she says. “My short, easy runs felt even easier, and there was a noticeable difference in how my feet felt post-run when running in a less-cushioned shoe. I thought I’d switch back to another shoe once I increased my mileage again, but now that I’m back to 20-mile running weeks, I’m still wearing them on most runs.” The 1080 is also one of the most accommodating shoes you can get: It’s offered in narrow, medium, wide, and extra-wide sizing.

If you’re looking for a beginner shoe that you want to be able to use for daily training but also for some faster runs and workouts, I would recommend the Hoka Mach 6. It’s slightly narrower than the Clifton, but it has bouncy, responsive cushioning throughout the heel and the forefoot, and I find that it rewards a fast turnover (or cadence). I like using these for everyday training but also for tempo runs and track sessions. This would be a great option for the beginner runner looking for a faster shoe to use for races (Strategist managing editor Kelsie Schrader likes racing in the Mach 5 , the previous version of this shoe).

If you’ve tried a few running shoes but don’t like a ton of cushioning, I would recommend the Saucony Triumph. Unlike some shoes that are packed with foam underfoot, the Triumph has a forgiving, flexible forefoot that gives you a closer-to-the-ground feel. (If you like that feeling of pushing off the ground with your feet and feeling that forward rolling motion, you’ll like this shoe.) I use this shoe for days when pace doesn’t matter, particularly on days after I’ve had a string of runs in max-cushioned shoes, including some with carbon-fiber plates that cause my foot muscles to not work as much (I want to feel something!). I also found its durability great after a few seasons of training in them: After a hundred miles on streets here in New York, they still look brand-new.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• running week
• women's shoes
• men's shoes

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Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• Everything We Want to Buy From the Dôen x Gap Collaboration
• 12 Things on Sale: Including Bright-Blue Birks
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• What Anthony Roth Costanzo Can’t Live Without
• The Best Father’s Day Gifts for Every Type of Dad
• The Strategist Travel 100

Today’s Top Clicked

20 Best Memorial Day Mattress Deals of 2024, According to Our Editors

The best mattress sales of the year have arrived.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

One of the biggest shopping weekends of spring is right around the corner. The wait is over if you've been looking for the right time to upgrade your mattress. According to experts, three-day weekends like Memorial Day are some of the best times to save on new mattresses .

Side sleepers, back sleepers and stomach sleepers — rejoice! If you've been holding out for a major upgrade, 2023 GH Bedding Award winner Saatva has more than $400 off our best overall mattress pick, the Classic mattress . Or, take 35% off the Nolah Evolution 10-inch , a GH best mattress pick for side sleepers .

Below, find a complete list of this year's best Memorial Day mattress deals to shop.

Saatva Classic Mattress

Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress

Saatva Loom & Leaf Mattress

Saatva's Memorial Day mattress sale is almost always worth marking your calendar. The retailer offers Good Housekeeping readers an exclusive 20% discount off all orders more than $1,000. That includes top-tested mattresses like the Saatva Classic, the Latex Hybrid, the Saatva HD, the Loom and Leaf and more.

• Save $419 on the Saatva Classic Mattress , GH's best overall mattress of 2024.
• Save $479 on the Saatva Latex Hybrid Mattress , GH's best ergonomic latex mattress of 2024.
• Save $359 on the Saatva Memory Foam Hybrid Mattress .
• Save $659 on the Saatva HD Memory Foam Mattress , GH's best mattress for heavy people pick.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Here's Why Saatva Is Our Pick for the Best Overall Mattress

Casper Sleep Original Foam Hybrid Mattress

Tuft & Needle Original Mattress

Purple GelFlex Mattress

Amazon is a great place to consider if you're looking for a quality mattress in a pinch thanks to fast shipping with Amazon Prime! Before the holiday weekend, we spotted Amazon mattresses in a box for up to $365 off , including best-selling brands like Casper, Purple, Tuft and Needle and more.

• Take 28% off the Casper Original Foam Hybrid mattress .
• Take 20% off the Tuft & Needle Original Mattress , GH's best mattress on Amazon pick.
• Take 7% off the Purple Original Mattress .

Sealy Cool 12-Inch Memory Foam Mattress with CopperChill

Beautyrest Plush Pillow-Top Innerspring Mattress

Lucid 6-Inch Firm Gel Memory Foam Mattress

Wayfair's sale section is a well-known place to shop if you're looking for stylish and affordable furniture , but did you know that the e-tailer also carries hundreds of popular mattresses? Last Memorial Day weekend, Wayfair offered as much as 70% off mattresses and bedding from Sealy, Wayfair Sleep, Nora and beyond. You can shop daily deals for up to 61% off.

• Take 61% off the Sealy Cool 12-inch Memory Foam Mattress with CopperChill .
• Take 49% off the Beautyrest Silver Pillowtop Innerspring Mattress .
• Take 45% off the Lucid Sleep 6-Inch Firm Memory Foam Mattress .
• Take 33% off the Sealy Cool and Clean 10-inch Mattress .

Avocado Green Mattress

Want a mattress that also follows manufacturing standards? This popular Avocado option is certified by GOTS and GOLS, and it comes in three different firmness levels to suit your preferences. It was even named the best overall organic mattress by the GH Institute. For Avocado's Memorial Day sale, take up to 20% off a new organic mattress and 10% off bedding, pillows and toppers.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Avocado's Green Mattress is the Best Organic Mattress on the Market

Big Fig Mattress

Shop mattresses specifically made with bigger bodies in mind; our testing panel reported that the Big Fig mattress was comfy, soft and supportive. It's particularly great for couples, thanks to its thick steel coils and higher-density foam that even offers cooling properties. Ahead of Big Fig's Memorial Day mattress sale, get the Big Fig mattress for $500 off.

Bear Mattress

Bear elite hybrid mattress.

Shop Bear's March mattress deals to take 35% off sitewide, plus $400 in free sleep accessories . That includes the Elite Hybrid mattress, a tester favorite that earned a 2024 GH Bedding Award for its zoned lumbar support and three different firmness levels.

Beautyrest Black Mattress

Starting now, you can take up to $1,200 off select Beautyrest Black mattresses when paired with an adjustable base. If you don't want to upgrade your base just yet, you can still save $300 on the mattress .

Casper One Foam Mattress

Shop Casper's Memorial Day Sale; the popular mattress-in-a-box brand has 3 0% off its recently released 2024 mattress models, plus 10% off everything else . Shop the Casper One mattress for $375 off, which features an all-foam construction with a medium-firm feel and pressure-relieving support.

Helix Dusk Luxe

Take up to 30% off sitewide at Helix during Memorial Day sales, and get two free pillows with your mattress purchase using code " MEMDAY30 ." The Helix Dusk Luxe mattress was named the best mattress for couples by the GH Institute.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Helix Carries Over 20 Mattresses — Here's Why We Love the Dusk Luxe Model

Layla Memory Foam Mattress

At Layla, take up to $200 off mattresses, including the Layla Memory Foam mattress. Also, get two free pillows with your purchase. Our experts at the GH Institute appreciate the copper particles in this affordable cooling mattress designed to absorb heat as you sleep. It's also double-sided, allowing you to flip the mattress over for a firmer or softer feel.

Leesa Reserve Hybrid Mattress

Leesa's Memorial Day Sale has arrived early, letting shoppers take 30% off all mattresses and receive a free sleep bundle with their purchase.

Mattress Firm

Purple hybrid mattress.

Shop a range of mattress sizes, styles and firmness levels at Mattress Firm. Right now, the retailer's Memorial Day sale lets you take up to 50% off select mattresses, adjustable bases and more. That includes top-rated brands like Purple, Serta, Sealy and more.

Nolah Evolution 15

During the Memorial Day Early Access Event at Nolah, take 35% off select mattresses — including the Nolah Original mattress , our best mattress pick for back pain . After a thorough review by the GH Textiles Lab, our fiber scientists found that this foam mattress had the ideal balance of cushioning and support to help your back maintain proper alignment all night.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Sleep Testers Swear Nolah's Mattress Alleviates Back Pain

Puffy Lux Mattress

Puffy's Memorial Day sale lets you take up to $1,350 off mattresses, with code " MEMORIALDAYSALE ." That includes the Puffy Luxe mattress, our pick for the best soft mattress .

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Puffy's Luxe Hybrid Mattress Feels Like Sleeping on a Cloud, According to GH Testers

Purple Mattress

Purple mattresses stand out for its unique GelFlex grid construction, which replaces traditional memory foam for a buoyant yet supportive feel. Take up to $500 off a new Purple Mattress — like the best-selling Purple Original, the GH Institute's pick for the best cooling mattress .

serta iComfortECO Quilted Hybrid

During the Spring Savings Sale, take up to $900 off select Serta mattresses when paired with a Motion Perfect adjustable base.

Sleep Number

Sleep number i8 smart bed.

Take up to 50% off select Smart Beds from Sleep Number this Memorial Day weekend. Included in the savings is $1,000 off the popular i8 Smart Bed . Famous for its adjustable firmness levels to support side, back and stomach sleepers alike, the Sleep Number i8 bed also has a top layer of foam infused with ceramic, which draws heat away from your body. It's great for anyone who sleeps hot and has a different firmness preference than their partner.

Stearns & Foster

Stearns & foster the studio.

Stearns & Foster's Memorial Day offerings include up to $600 off select mattresses , including Estate, Lux Estate and Lux Hybrid models.

Tempur-Pedic

Tempur-adapt® collection.

This Memorial Day, save up to $500 on select Tempur-Cloud mattresses from Tempur-Pedic, and get $300 in free sleep accessories with your purchase.

READ OUR FULL REVIEW: Tempur-Pedic's Tempur-Cloud Delivers Luxurious Memory Foam to Your Door

Tuft & Needle

Tuft and Needle's Memorial Day Sale just dropped — save 20% off all mattresses , and take up to $700 off the Mint Hybrid mattress .

Is Memorial Day a good time to buy a mattress?

Yes, according to Lexie Sachs , an executive director at the GH Institute. She explains that holiday weekends like Memorial Day are the best times to save on mattresses. "While mattress companies offer discounts and sales throughout the year, a holiday weekend is when you'll see the most consistent and competitive offers across brands," Sachs says.

How we tested the best mattresses

The GH Institute Textiles Lab has been extensively testing mattresses for years to provide science-backed recommendations for every type of sleeper. In addition to thoroughly researching the top mattress brands, materials and features, our in-Lab product experts and a diverse panel of consumer testers try out mattresses at home to evaluate how they perform and to inform in-depth reviews.

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18 best paris tours of 2024: food, versailles & more.

Enhance your visit to the City of Love with one of these specialized tours.

The Best Paris Tours

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From the Eiffel Tower to the Moulin Rouge – plus day trips to Versailles, Normandy and beyond – there are so many things to do in Paris . To make the most of your trip, it can be helpful to rely on the expertise of a few locals via a guided tour. Read on to discover some of the top-rated Paris tours for a variety of interests.

Bike About Tours – Hidden Paris Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 45 euros (around $49); kids 3 and younger from 20 euros (about $22) Duration: 3.5 hours

On this roughly 3.5-hour cycling trip, a guide takes you on back streets to both notable and lesser-known attractions throughout Paris. Along the way, guides share historical and cultural anecdotes. Sights include the Place des Vosges, Jardin des Plantes and the Paris mosque, to name a few. Reviewers love seeing an array of attractions at a leisurely pace and applaud the expertise of the guides. Bike About Tours also offers cycling excursions through Versailles.

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Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids 4-12 from $25 Duration: About 2 hours

Create your own Parisian adventure with the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. Double-decker, open-top buses take you to 10 stops near top attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Musée du Louvre and the Grand Palais. All buses are equipped with a prerecorded audio tour in 11 different languages. Reviewers love the convenience of the bus, but some express disappointment that buses are often overcrowded.

Buses run from around 10 a.m. to about 7:30 p.m. daily and typically frequent stops every seven to 15 minutes. If you choose to ride the whole route, you'll be on the bus for two hours and 15 minutes. Ticket discounts may be available if you book online in advance. Big Bus also offers two-day passes, a night tour and combo tours that include a river cruise.

Paris Charms and Secrets

Price: From 59 euros (about $64) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

If you're a sucker for a good story, a secret passageway or a long-forgotten historical tale, the Paris Charms and Secrets tour will be right up your alley. On this roughly 12-mile tour, a guide will lead you through the city on an electric bike, stopping at some of Paris' most famous attractions and storied monuments. Hear the legends of Élysée Palace, the controversies of the Eiffel Tower and the curious past of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Reviewers love the knowledgeable guides and the unique stories.

Older children and teens are welcome to ride their own bikes if they meet the height and weight requirements; a child seat must be reserved ahead of time for younger kids (for 12 euros).

Paris By Mouth – North Marais Food Tour

Price: 130 euros (about $141) Duration: 3.5 hours

If you want an intimate look at one of Paris' most fashionable and beautiful areas, snag a spot on Paris By Mouth's North Marais Food tour. This 3.5-hour tour welcomes up to eight participants to create a more personal feel. For the first part of the tour, your guide will bring you to some of the neighborhood's most prestigious shops, which specialize in bread, cheese, pastry and charcuterie. The second part of the tour stops at a wine shop and includes a seated tasting with wine pairings. Paris By Mouth's guides are experienced food journalists, chefs and foodies – a highlight among reviewers.

The tour is recommended for adults, though children older than age 12 can join. The tour runs daily at multiple times. Paris By Mouth also hosts tours of Saint-Germain-des-Près, south Marais and the Left Bank.

Retro Tour Paris – Retro Classic

Price: From $75 Duration: 40 minutes

Hop into the vintage sidecar of an experienced motorcycle driver and cruise through the city with views of the Champs-Élysées, the Eiffel Tower, Champ de Mars and more on the Retro Classic tour of Paris. Local guides will share unique stories and provide an experience worlds apart from a typical city tour. Reviewers rave about the thrill of riding in the sidecar and the local insight.

If you love your first sidecar experience, you can also opt for the company's 90-minute tours, as well as a ride through Paris after sunset (with a Champagne tasting, naturally).

Blue Fox Travel – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (around $119); kids from 95 euros (about $104) Duration: 9 hours

The Versailles estate encompasses 2,000 acres, and there's no better way to see it than on a bike with Blue Fox Travel. Spend roughly nine hours with an expert guide and a small group (up to 14 people) touring the royal grounds, including the Grand and Petit Trianon chateaus, Marie Antoinette's private domain and the grand palace with a skip-the-line pass included in your ticket. Guides tell stories of French royal history, including the conquests of the Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, the controversies surrounding Louis XV, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette. Reviewers love biking the grounds at a leisurely pace and rave about the expertise of the guides, as well as the picnic lunch with finds from one of the local farmers markets.

Tours include train tickets to and from Paris. Blue Fox Travel also guides visitors on cycling tours of Paris at night and the city's top attractions.

Secret Food Tours Paris – Montmartre

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours

Peruse and stroll through the Parisian dining scene like a local with Secret Food Tours. On this up to four-hour tour of one of Paris' most picturesque and lively arrondissements, dessert is first (c'est la vie!) . You'll gather chocolates and macarons from local specialty shops, followed by baguettes, cheeses, meats and crêpes – all while learning more about food and Parisian traditions from your local guide. When your bag is full, the guide will lead you to a prime picnic spot to enjoy your bounty with a few wine pairings. Reviewers love the historical tidbits and local insights, as well as the animated and entertaining tour guides.

An upgraded drinks package is available for an additional charge. Tours run daily at several different times, depending on the day. Secret Food Tours also hosts walks through other Paris neighborhoods, such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais.

Intrepid Urban Adventures – Paris Marais Bites and Sights Tour

Price: From $97 Duration: 2 hours

Wander through Paris' gorgeous Marais with a local guide and a lineup of French treats. Intrepid Urban Adventures' Bites and Sights Tour takes you through the well-preserved (and very fashionable) area of the Marais. Throughout the approximately two-hour tour, you'll hear local insights and historical tales as you admire Marais' treasured architecture. Stories are accompanied by stops in neighborhood shops for pastry and macaron samples, plus a French cheese platter and two glasses of wine. Reviewers appreciate the expertise and entertainment provided by the guides, as well as the intimate and conversational environment.

Children 5 and younger can tag along for free, as long as they sample items from their parents' plate. Paris Urban Adventures also offers tours of bohemian Paris and several private excursions.

Paris by Martin & Friends – Walking Tour

Price: 70 euros (about $76) Duration: 2.5 hours

For a truly bespoke experience with a passionate local, take a tour with Martin Muda and his friends, all residents of Paris. On the 2.5-hour walking tour, Muda or one of his tour guides will lead you to treasured spots throughout the city, with stories that give life to Paris' history and legends. Reviewers give high praise for the tour guides and their attention to detail, as well as the customization of each tour.

Tours are available at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Children younger than 3 can join the tour for free. Inquiries can be made through the website. The company also offers walking picnic tours at night and electric bike tours.

Fat Tire Tours – Versailles Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 109 euros (about $119); kids from 95 euros (about $103) Duration: 8.5 hours

To see Versailles in all of its glory, take a ride with Fat Tire Tours. On this daylong tour (approximately 8.5 hours), a guide will take you through the Versailles open market to grab a picnic lunch before visiting the Petit Trianon, the Grand Trianon and the estate gardens. The tour also includes skip-the-line access to the palace and an audio guide. Riders love the bicycles and tour guides, and appreciate the sweeping views of the iconic palace and grounds.

Tours are offered Tuesday through Sunday and all depart before 9 a.m. Kids younger than 4 are free to join the tour. Fat Tire Tours also offers a variety of biking excursions around Paris – including an "Emily in Paris"-inspired tour – and the surrounding region, as well as guided walks and Segway rides.

SANDEMANs NEW Europe – Montmartre Free Walking Tour

Price: Free; tips appreciated Duration: 2.5 hours

Stroll through one of Paris' most famous and charming neighborhoods with the help of SANDEMANs NEW Europe. This 2.5-hour tour will take you by the area's most photographed sights, including the Moulin Rouge and up the steps to Sacré-Coeur. You'll recognize streets featured in paintings and in cinema as guides share tales of Montmartre's famous artists, musicians and other notables, including Van Gogh and Picasso. Tourgoers appreciate the guides' expertise and recommend the tour for art history lovers.

Tours depart daily at 4 p.m. (Spanish language) and 5 p.m. (English language). Tickets are free, though tips are appreciated. If you're looking to explore more of the city, the company offers an array of other tours covering Latin Quarter, the Seine River and more.

Boutique Bike Tours – Versailles Food & Palace Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 145 euros (about $158); kids 5 and older from 99 euros (about $108) Duration: 9 to 10 hours

If you're looking to escape the city, let Boutique Bike Tours take you on a ride and stroll through the gardens of Versailles. On this approximately nine- to 10-hour tour, guides lead the way through the sprawling estate before stopping for a picnic lunch with provisions purchased from the market in town. After lunch, you'll skip the line at the famous palace to explore the rooms and hallways of Versailles. Reviewers enjoy the leisurely pace, a day full of activities and informative guidance.

Tours generally depart Tuesday and Friday through Sunday; expect to leave at 8 or 9 a.m. and return around 6 p.m. The company also hosts an evening bike and boat tour of Paris.

2CVParisTour – Legendary Paris Tour

Price: From 160 euros (about $175) Duration: 2 hours

If you're looking for a memorable and personalized drive through Paris, allow 2CVParisTour to take you for a whirl in a Citroën 2CV, a classic French car. Take in sights like the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Palais de l'Élysée ,  Église   Saint-Sulpice and more as you cruise through the Paris streets for two hours. Reviewers praise the classic car experience and entertaining guides.

Champagne can be added to the tour for an extra charge. Tours depart at multiple times daily, starting at 11 a.m. and ending after 10 p.m. If you can't get enough of the vintage car experience, you can also sign up for a tour of Montmartre, one that features a picnic and others.

City Wonders – Paris Catacombs Underground Tour

Price: Adults from $119 Duration: 2 hours

City Wonders will take you on a two-hour tour of what's below Paris: a network of tunnels, crypts and tombs that are home to nearly 6 million skeletons. On this Paris Catacombs tour, you'll skip the line with a small group to explore the Port Mahon gallery, the Sacellum Crypt and Gilbert's Tomb. Throughout the tour, you'll hear historical anecdotes from insightful guides. Along with the entertaining guides, reviewers also appreciate the skip-the-line access and recommend this experience in lieu of a self-guided tour.

Ticket prices may increase during busier times of the year. Tours depart Tuesday through Sunday at several times each day. City Wonders also hosts traditional aboveground tours of the Louvre, Versailles and the Eiffel Tower.

Paris City Vision – Half Day Guided Tour of Giverny Monet's Gardens from Paris

Price: From 89 euros (about $97) Duration: About 5 hours

On this roughly five-hour tour, a guide will take you through the life of celebrated painter Claude Monet as you explore his home and garden in Giverny. His garden is what inspired some of his most prized works, including "Irises" and "Water Lilies." Reviewers value the views and insight provided by tour guides, though others warn that the company can be disorganized.

Tours generally run daily at 8:15 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. The company hosts a number of other tours throughout Paris and greater France , including tours to Normandy .

Street Art Tour Paris – Murals XXL

Price: From 26 euros (about $28) Duration: About 2 hours

There's no museum pass needed to see some of the city's largest artwork with Street Art Tour's Murals XXL. An expert guide leads groups through the city to view contemporary works created by the world's most famous and talented muralists, such as Jorge Rodriguez-Gerada and Obey. Reviewers love the insider information and find the tour reveals details (and murals) often overlooked. Plus, the route is accessible for those with limited mobility.

Tours last just over two hours and run Tuesdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Discounts are available to groups of five or more. Street Art Tour Paris also offers tours in Montmartre and Belleville, among other options.

Babylon Tours – Louvre Museum + Orsay Museum Guided Combo Tour

Price: Adults from 199 euros (about $217); kids from 159 euros (about $173) Duration: 5.5 hours

View Greek sculpture and famous paintings by greats like Renoir, Monet, da Vinci and Van Gogh during this 5.5-hour tour. As you explore the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, guides will regale you with stories of art history. Plus, you'll bypass the long lines at the attractions. Travelers praise the guide's knowledge and appreciate the small groups (no more than eight people can go at once).

Tours run at 10 a.m. from Wednesday to Saturday. Fees include access to the museums. Babylon Tours also operates outings to the Musée de l'Orangerie, the Rodin Museum and individual outings to the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay.

XL Tours – Segway Tour

Price: From 75 euros (about $82) Duration: 2 hours

During this two-hour tour, you'll glide by some of Paris' must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Trocadero Gardens and the Musée d'Orsay. You'll also ride in style on Bel & Bel Segways, which are designed to resemble the iconic Vespa scooters. Travelers say the Segways are a great way to see the city and the guides provide clear instructions.

Tours are available daily at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 6 or 7 p.m. You may be required to book at least two riders for your tour if you book directly through the company's website. Participants must be at least 12 years old. XL Tour also runs electric bike tours through the city.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Hotels in Paris
• The Best London Tours
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Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Paris , Europe Vacations

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WSDOT travel charts are key to Memorial Day weekend adventures

• Tina Werner , Communications, 360-705-7080

Expect increased congestion on major routes like I-5, US 2 and I-90

OLYMPIA – Memorial Day weekend is often the unofficial start of summer and planning ahead now is a great jumpstart to holiday travels. To help travel planning, the Washington State Department of Transportation has released travel charts for the holiday weekend. The charts include the best (and worst) times to travel on major routes like Interstate 5 between Olympia and Tacoma, US 2, I-90 and the I-5/US-Canadian border.

Holiday weekends often mean increased traffic and congestion on roadways. Travelers are strongly encouraged to be patient, expect delays and stay alert. All Washington state ferry routes also are expected to be busy.

WSDOT encourages travelers to "know before they go," and follow these tips whether traveling across town or statewide:

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• Have a backup outdoor destination as parks and other outdoor recreation sites tend to fill up quickly on holiday weekends. If a site’s parking is full, never park along road shoulders, as this is unsafe for everyone on the roadway, including emergency response vehicles.

Most highway construction paused

Most state highway construction work is suspended through the holiday weekend – including Friday, May 24 – to ease congestion. Please stay alert for new lane shifts or other work zone staging areas that may remain in place. And please give any emergency repair crews plenty of space to work safely.

Snoqualmie Pass

No construction is planned on I-90 from Friday, May 24, through Tuesday, May 28. However, the usual holiday increase in traffic means travelers should expect delays, especially eastbound on Friday and westbound on Monday (see charts for more detail). Text message alerts about significant delays are available by texting the words "WSDOT Snoqualmie" to 468311.

Both State Route 123 Cayuse Pass and SR 410 Chinook Pass remain closed as of May 14, 2024. Crews are working to reopen both routes. It's uncertain at this time if the routes will reopen before the holiday weekend. View Mountain pass opening information

In the Puget Sound region, weekend toll rates will be in effect on Monday, May 27, on the SR 520 bridge and SR 99 tunnel. The I-405 express toll lanes will be free and open to all drivers on the Monday holiday. Out-of-town travelers, including those using rental cars, can learn about toll roads and temporary account payment options on the Good To Go! visitors page .

Ferry travel

People boarding a state ferry by vehicle should prepare for long waits. Peak travel times are expected on all routes from Thursday, May 23 through Monday, May 27. Customers can bypass vehicle lines by traveling as a walk-on passenger and usually board much faster.

• All riders should double check the sailing schedules and sign up to receive rider alerts as last-minute delays or canceled sailings are possible based on vessel and crew availability.
• Visit the Washington State Ferries website for more details on how to make a vehicle reservation for some routes, track ferries on a real-time map and check terminal status .

Trains, airports and transit

Travelers making a trip by train, personal aircraft or bus also should plan ahead to avoid holiday delays:

• Amtrak Cascades passengers are encouraged to purchase tickets early and plan to arrive at the station one hour before departure. Trains are running between Vancouver, British Columbia and Eugene, Oregon, stopping at 18 stations along the way. Buses also are available for travel between Seattle and Vancouver, British Columbia and between Seattle and Bellingham. Visit www.AmtrakCascades.com or call 800-USA-RAIL for tickets and schedules.
• For information about traveling via state-sponsored airports, visit wsdot.wa.gov/travel/aviation/airports-list or call 360-618-2477.
• Check with local public transit agencies for any holiday schedule or service changes, including some Dial-A-Ride and fixed-route service that may not run on holidays.

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