Day Trippers: Weekend Getaways Less Than 2 Hours From NYC

If you're not from around these parts, there are plenty of reasons to visit New York City. After all, it's the greatest city in the world. For us city folk, though, there are just as many reasons to leave the five boroughs.

We don't really want to leave for good, but when the stress of the city starts to bear down on your shoulders, and you're just about ready to tag your boss on the chin for making your life a living hell, it's nice to escape the madness and get ghost for a while.

This weekend, you can either spend two miserable hours on the F train trying to get to a crowded Coney Island, or you can spend that time wisely and head out to some great vacation spots, all within a stone's throw from the city. Whether you're looking for a backcountry adventure for some much-needed R&R, or just a weekend retreat on the beach with your honey, escaping the city's heat, filth and endless supply of tourists is as easy as hoping in a car or train and leaving it all behind—even if it's just for 36 hours. It's time to hit the road: These are 10 Weekend Getaways Less Than 2 Hours From NYC.

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Travel time: 1hr
What to bring: A significant other and an imagination
Best for: Sun seekers

Ocean City took quite a hit from Sandy last year. But it has rebounded nicely to reestablish itself as one of the best east coast beach towns in the tri-state area. The sandy beaches are the main attraction, but there's something for everyone out here. Hit the open sea for an afternoon swim, or board a vessel for some whale watching. Better yet, hit the boardwalk to catch the sunset and reflect. Grab some brews and enjoy the respite from city life—at least for a weekend, anyway.

Travel time: 1hr 45min
What to bring: Hiking boots and insect repellent
Best for: The adventurous type

Whether you're looking to take in some full-throttle NASCAR action at the raceway, or just some R&R in the backcountry, the Pocono Mountains in Pa. is where you want to be. Hit up one of many all-inclusive resorts like Woodloch Pines for a round of golf, or get in some water skiing while the ol' ball and chain soaks in the sun rays on the beach. If you're looking for an escape of the pitch-a-tent variety, there are plenty of campsites to choose from. Just remember to pack a big enough tent. Considering you'll be in the presence of a female, the extra space will come in handy for whatever kinky shit you want to try out there in the wilderness. After all, what happens in the woods, stays in the woods.

Travel time: 45min
What to bring: Your curiousity
Best for: Hipsters

You would think to find the most expensive home in the U.S. somewhere in the Big Apple. But surprisingly enough, it's about 45 minutes North in Greenwich, Conn. This affluent city along the Long Island Sound is just a short train ride from Wall Street, making it a choice location for wealthy city dwellers to escape to. While you're there, take a stroll through the series of perfectly manicured neighborhoods, or pack a picnic and head out to the Greenwich Point peninsula. Hell, if you start feeling homesick, you can even catch a glimpse of the Manhattan skyline on a clear day to remind you just how close you are to the city.

Travel time: 1hr 45min
What to bring: Friends
Best for: Thrill seekers

To be frank, there's only one reason to go to Kent, CT: Club Getaway. A kids' camp during the week, by Friday night, the place transforms into a weekend paradise for adults looking for a little thrill in their lives. Grab a Groupon for you and your crew, and head out to Club Getaway, where you can channel your inner kid and get in line for a range of adrenaline-pumping activities like zip lining, rock climbing, water skiing, and even stunt fighting. Or, you can just kick back lakeside and indulge yourself in some sunbathing. The place has some pretty damn good food for being a camp, and drinks are on point, too, so there's really no reason not to go.

Travel time: 2hrs
What to bring: An open mind
Best for: The bachelor party, as well as the occasional gambler

Don't believe what they tell you—Atlantic City is hardly the Vegas of the East. But it's as close as you'll get to the real deal. Sure, the idea of hitting up AC for the weekend seems a bit played out, but it's slowly starting to get some of its swagger back (just don't call it a comeback). Now, when you get there, the obvious choice would be to immediately blow all your money at one of the big casinos on the boardwalk. But, instead, play it wise, keep those stacks in your pocket for now, and go immerse yourself deeper into what AC has to offer. We're talking historic sightseeing at the recently restored Absecon Lighthouse, or perhaps grabbing a surfboard and catching a few waves. The surf's not half bad out here. Because if there's anything AC has on Vegas, it's water. If you're a family man, or a stoner, there's even a half-decent aquarium that is worth checking. It's not world-class, but it sure as hell tops the fish bowl they try to pass off as an aquarium at Coney Island.

Travel time: 1hr 35min
What to bring: A camera and a sense of adventure
Best for: The Survivorman type

On paper, Mohonk Mountain House is the undisputed main attraction of New Paltz, and rightfully so. The all-inclusive resort is pretty impressive in size, and even has its own "private" lake. But there's plenty of fun to be had outside the confines of this historic hotel. Instead, stay at one of the quaint Inns in the village, and head out to one of many hiking trails, where you can get sweeping views of the Catskills.

If you're trying to kick it with the locals, there's a secret watering hole appropriately called Split Rock tucked away in the backcountry that looks like a straight up mystical wonderland. OK, so maybe it's not that extreme, but take a dip under the frigid waterfall wedged between massive rock formations, and you'll come out with a cleansed soul. While you're there, slip into the surrounding woods and light up a J, and become at one with nature, man. Just be cautious, there's a designated nude area just beyond the path, where you may come across some naked bodies roaming along the creek. Seriously, consider yourself warned.

Travel time: 1hr
What to bring: That Vineyard Vines
Best for: Preps and bros

Admittedly, your best bet is to fly to Nantucket. But the good news is, it's a short, inexpensive—and might we add, direct—fight, and it's well worth every penny. Of course, once you get there, be prepared to spend a little bit of dough. Just so there's no confusion here, yes Nantucket is in Mass., meaning you're going to be surrounded by Red Sox and Patriots fans. But to be fair, they're easy going people, so don't feel like you're betraying your beloved NY teams.

If you want to do Nantucket right, rent yourself a jeep and hit up one of many off-road trails and beaches on the island. Perhaps even rent a beach cruiser if you really want to blend in. But whatever you decide to do, make sure you pack your best Carlton outfit because it's one of those places dudes rock polo's with sweaters draped around the shoulders. A place like Nantucket, you expect the highest quality food and drink. Fortunately, it doesn't disappoint. If you want the best lobster you've ever had, head over to Cru, a waterfront restaurant that will make you feel real special. And if you happen to be on the island mid-June, you might even catch Ben Stiller or Brian Williams showing face at the Nantucket Film Festival. There are some solid breweries on the island that are worth a visit, too.

Travel time: 1hr 45min
What to bring: A whole lot of love
Best for: Friendship bracelets and history books

Just drive for two hours down I-95 South, and you'll hit Philadelphia. Even though it may seem a bit overkill to go from one big city to another, Philly is one of those places you just have to check out for yourself—if not for the history, at least for the cheesesteak. Besides, it's the birthplace of America, son. Along with the countless museums and historic landmarks, the city is rapt in pop culture. To escape the tour guides and screaming kids, hit up South Street for a memorable night out with a funky crowd. Remember that cheesesteak we talked about? Yeah, you can find one of those on South Street. While you're down there, also worth checking out is Philadelphia's Magic Gardens—an indoor/outdoor mosaic sculpture garden that spans half a block, providing plenty of Instagram photo ops for you thirsty hashtaggers.

Travel time: 1hr 40min
What to bring: You and yo' girl
Best for: A book and a beach towel

Whether it's a weekend getaway, or just a daycation, the relatively short ride on the Long Island Railroad (then a quick ferry) will take you to one of the best places to unwind from the stressful city life. There are many different communities within Fire Island, some gay-friendly, others for the straight folk, so do your research before you head out. Some of the more popular spots on the island include the Sunken Forest, a sprawling canopy of trees covering a narrow barrier of sand dunes that make you feel a lot further away from NYC than you really are. Another must-see is the Fire Island Lighthouse. Sure, it's just another lighthouse, but if you climb the stairs to the top, you'll see what the hype is about. Just remember to pack your walking shoes, beacuse cars aren't allowed out here. Or better yet, kick it barefoot. You're on an island after all.

Travel time: 1hr 50min
What to bring: The black card, sunscreen, and swim trunks
Best for: High rollers

Anybody who's a somebody in the Big Apple has partied in the Hamptons at one time or another. If you haven't yet, it may be time to reevaluate your life. Old money runs deep around these parts. A cluster of beyond wealthy enclaves at the eastern tip of Long Island, the Hamptons have a long history of attracting the highest of high rollers—from stockbrokers, to celebrities, and everyone else in between. Even Jay Z needs at least three weeks in the Hamptons. As for beaches, you can't go wrong with whichever you end up on. Still, if you're looking for the best in women and sunshine, hit up Coopers Beach in Southampton and/or Main Beach in East Hampton. If you're in the mood to party amongst the fishermen and surfers, head east to Montauk for some clams and waves.