10 Short Road Trips From Queens, New York for Weekend Getaways

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10 Easy Out‑of‑County Road Trips From Queens, New York

Living in Queens, NY and itching to get out of the borough for a bit? You’re in the perfect spot for quick, fun road trips from Queens that don’t require a full week off or a huge budget. The only rule for this list: we’re leaving Queens County behind. Every spot below is in a different county nearby—so you get that “mini vacation” feel without going very far.

1. Coney Island & Brighton Beach – Classic Ocean Escape (Kings County, NY)

If you grew up in the New York City area, you probably have at least one Coney Island memory. If not, it’s time to make one. Drive time from Queens: about 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic. County: Kings County (Brooklyn) Why go:
  • Stroll the famous Coney Island Boardwalk
  • Ride the historic Cyclone roller coaster
  • Grab a hot dog at Nathan’s Famous
  • Walk over to Brighton Beach for a more laid‑back vibe
I once went on a random Tuesday evening in late summer. The crowds were smaller, the sunset over the water was gorgeous, and we ended up staying longer than planned just listening to the waves and the noise from the rides in the background. Tip: Parking can be tight on busy weekends. Get there before 11 a.m. or after dinner for better luck.

2. Long Beach – Chill Day on the Sand (Nassau County, NY)

Want a beach day that feels calmer than Coney Island but still close to Queens? Long Beach in Nassau County is an easy win. Drive time from Queens: about 30–40 minutes County: Nassau County Things to do in Long Beach:
  • Walk or bike along the 2‑mile boardwalk
  • Swim, sunbathe, or just nap on the sandy beach
  • Check out small cafes and ice cream shops near the waterfront
On a hot July Saturday, I went with a friend who “hates sand.” She ended up walking the boardwalk for almost 3 hours, just people‑watching and enjoying the ocean air. Even if you’re not a big beach person, the walk alone is worth the drive. Tip: Many parts of the beach require a day pass in summer—check the city’s website before you go.

3. Jones Beach State Park – Big, Wide‑Open Oceanfront (Nassau County, NY)

If you like your beaches big and bold, Jones Beach is a classic New York spot and an easy road trip from Queens. Drive time from Queens: about 40–55 minutes County: Nassau County Highlights:
  • Over 6 miles of sandy ocean beach
  • Fishing piers and picnic areas
  • Mini‑golf, shuffleboard, and playgrounds
  • Seasonal concerts at the outdoor amphitheater
Think of Jones Beach as the “big stadium” version of a beach: lots of space, lots of people, and plenty to do. It’s especially fun for families or big friend groups who want room to spread out. Tip: Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks. Food lines can get long on busy days.

4. Asbury Park – Artsy Beach Town Vibes (Monmouth County, NJ)

Ready to cross state lines? Asbury Park in New Jersey has a cool mix of beach town charm and artsy edge. Drive time from Queens: about 1 hour 15 minutes–1 hour 40 minutes (depending on traffic and tunnels/bridges) County: Monmouth County, New Jersey Why Asbury Park works for a day trip:
  • The wide beach and boardwalk are great for a classic shore day
  • Street art, murals, and cute indie shops
  • Live music at spots like the Stone Pony
  • Good mix of casual and trendy restaurants
The first time I visited, I spent half the day on the sand and the other half just wandering through small shops. It felt like a beach town but with a bit of Brooklyn soul—without the Brooklyn parking drama. Tip: If you like photos, the murals around town make great backdrops.

5. The Bronx Zoo – Wild Day Close to Home (Bronx County, NY)

If you’re searching for family‑friendly things to do near Queens, you really can’t beat the Bronx Zoo. Drive time from Queens: around 35–50 minutes County: Bronx County What makes it special:
  • One of the largest zoos in the U.S.
  • Gorillas, tigers, giraffes, red pandas, and more
  • Seasonal exhibits and kids’ activities
I went once in early fall, and it was perfect. Not too hot, fewer crowds, and the animals were more active. We ended up staying almost the whole day without realizing how much time had passed. Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—this place is huge. Plan your route ahead using the zoo map so you don’t zigzag all day.

6. New York Botanical Garden – Peaceful Green Escape (Bronx County, NY)

Right near the Bronx Zoo is another gem: the New York Botanical Garden. If city life has you feeling drained, this is your recharge spot. Drive time from Queens: about 35–50 minutes County: Bronx County Why you’ll love it:
  • Beautiful themed gardens (rose garden, rock garden, and more)
  • A huge glass conservatory with plants from different climates
  • Seasonal exhibits, from orchids to holiday train shows
Walking through the gardens feels a bit like stepping into a different world. On my last visit, I spent almost an hour just in the rose garden, smelling everything and sitting on a bench with a coffee. Simple, but incredibly relaxing. Tip: Time your visit for spring or early summer for the most blooms, or around the holidays for the train show.

7. Staten Island Ferry & St. George Waterfront – Budget‑Friendly Harbor Views (Richmond County, NY)

If you want an affordable outing with classic New York Harbor views, this one is hard to beat. Drive time from Queens to the ferry terminal in Manhattan: 35–55 minutes, then a ferry ride County you’re visiting: Richmond County (Staten Island) Why this road trip from Queens is worth it:
  • The Staten Island Ferry is free
  • Views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and lower Manhattan
  • Walk around the St. George area once you arrive
  • Check out local restaurants or the waterfront promenade
I once took the ferry right before sunset, and the ride back with the skyline lit up was one of those “wow, I actually live near this” moments. Tip: Try to grab a spot outside or near a window on the right side when leaving Manhattan for Statue of Liberty views.

8. Lower Manhattan – Iconic NYC Landmarks (New York County, NY)

Yes, you probably go into Manhattan already—but treating it like a day trip from Queens can make it feel new again. Drive time from Queens: about 25–40 minutes to lower Manhattan County: New York County (Manhattan) Ideas for a Lower Manhattan day:
  • Walk through the Financial District and see the Charging Bull
  • Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
  • Stroll around Battery Park for harbor views
  • Head up to One World Observatory for incredible city views
One weekend, instead of rushing around like usual, I planned one simple loop: coffee near Wall Street, a slow walk around the 9/11 Memorial, and then an hour just sitting in Battery Park watching the water. No rushing, no schedule—just being a tourist in my own backyard. Tip: Go early in the day on weekends to dodge the heaviest crowds.

9. Brooklyn Bridge Park & DUMBO – Skyline Photo Heaven (Kings County, NY)

If you like city views and cool neighborhoods, this one is a must. Drive time from Queens: around 25–40 minutes County: Kings County (Brooklyn) What to do in Brooklyn Bridge Park & DUMBO:
  • Walk along the waterfront piers with unbeatable skyline views
  • Snap photos of the Manhattan Bridge from the famous DUMBO street (you’ve definitely seen it on Instagram)
  • Ride Jane’s Carousel by the water
  • Eat at pizza spots and trendy cafes in the area
It’s one of my favorite places to bring out‑of‑town friends. You get that big “New York” feeling in just a few blocks: bridges, skyline, cobblestone streets, and the river. Tip: Sunset is prime time—but also crowded. For a quieter visit, try early morning.

10. Red Bank – Cute Downtown & Riverfront Stroll (Monmouth County, NJ)

Looking for a small‑town feel without driving for hours? Red Bank, New Jersey, is a charming little getaway. Drive time from Queens: about 1 hour 15 minutes–1 hour 45 minutes County: Monmouth County Why Red Bank is great for a quick road trip:
  • Compact, walkable downtown with boutiques and coffee shops
  • Navesink River views and waterfront parks
  • Good mix of casual and nicer restaurants
  • Occasional street fairs and events
I stopped there once on the way back from the Jersey Shore and ended up wishing I’d planned more time. We found a little bakery, wandered down to the water, and just took it slow for a couple of hours. Tip: Check local event calendars before you go—street festivals can make parking trickier but also add a lot of fun.

How to Make the Most of These Short Road Trips From Queens

To keep these Queens day trips easy and enjoyable:
  • Start early: Beat traffic and crowds, especially in summer.
  • Pick one main goal: Beach day, city exploring, zoo visit—don’t try to do everything.
  • Pack smart: Water, snacks, phone charger, sunscreen, and a light jacket (even summer evenings near the water can get cool).
  • Check parking & tickets: Some places need pre‑booked passes or have limited parking on weekends.
Think of these spots as your “extended neighborhood.” You don’t need a flight or a suitcase—just a tank of gas and a loose plan.

Share Your Favorite Road Trips From Queens

Now it’s your turn:
  • Which of these out‑of‑county road trips from Queens have you tried?
  • Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Monmouth, Bronx, Kings, Nassau, New York, or Richmond County?
Drop your stories, tips, and questions in the comments—I’d love to hear where you’re heading next. If you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family looking for easy things to do near Queens. Your share might be the nudge someone needs to plan their next mini‑escape.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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