Outdoor Activities

Hikes

Most within 1.5 hours of NYC, some of these are accessible via MetroNorth. You can also rent a ZipCar for the day (check out the Mount Sinai recreation website for a better deal on ZipCars). Download the AllTrails app to help navigate/find even more great options. 

Breakneck Ridge

Anthony’s Nose

Bear Mountain

Ringwood State Park

Pine Meadow Lake Loop

Mount Beacon

Storm King Mountain

Beaches

Take a break from the NYC heat especially in those hot August months. 

Rockaways – get there by subway or even better by the NYC Ferry. Check out restaurants like Tacoway Beach, Caracas, and Rippers while you’re there. Take a surfing class with Locals Surf School. 

Coney Island – beaches and roller coasters all in one. Check out the Mermaid Parade here every June. Get here via subway. 

Brighton – less crowded than Coney Island with excellent Russian food within walking distance of the beach. Get here via subway. 

Long Beach and Jones Beach – both great options accessible via the Long Island Railroad (LIRR). Pack a lunch as there are fewer food options here. 

Sandy Hook Beach – nice beach with nearby hikes accessible via NJ Ferry

Other

Storm King – an open air sculpture park that’s definitely worth a visit

Opus 40 – a stone sculpture park in an abandoned quarry near Woodstock