For a cheap trip that gets you out of New York, there are many appealing destinations within driving distance of the city. Within a few hours drive, you can experience historical landmarks, relaxing atmospheres and natural attractions — and find lodging accommodations that accommodate the tightest of budgets.
Just a few hours away from New York by car, Cape May, New Jersey is a popular getaway that's neither too far nor too expensive from the Big Apple. Featuring beautiful architecture, the town is famous for its Victorian-style homes and businesses as well as its white sandy beaches. Known as the "Queen of Seaside Resorts," Cape May offers visitors the chance to parasail, bicycle, fish, hike or stroll around the town. For shopping and dining, try The Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian walkway lined with family-owned shops. Because it's mainly a tourist destination, Cape May is no stranger to inexpensive lodging accommodations.
Marquis de Lafayette Hotel, Cape May
501 Beach Ave.
Cape May, NJ 08204
609-884-3500
www.marquiscapemay.com
The Hotel Alcott, Cape May
107-113 Grant St.
Cape May, NJ 08204
609-884-5868
www.hotelalcott.com
Less than 100 miles from New York, Philadelphia has a rich history, offering visitors the chance to see the Liberty Bell, National Constitution Museum, and many parks and botanical gardens. For accommodations near popular historical attractions, Old City (also called Penn's Landing) is a good choice. Historical sites, many dining options, entertainment, clubs, pubs and more are all located in the Old City district of Philadelphia.
Holiday Inn-Old City
400 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-9238660
http://www.holidayinn.com/hotels/us/en/phlim/hoteldetail
Comfort Inn Downtown Historic/Area
100 N. Chris. Columbus Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
215-627-7900
http://www.comfortinn.com/hotel-philadelphia-pennsylvania-PA405
Courtyard Marriott Philadelphia Downtown
21 N Juniper St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
215-496-3200
http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/phldc-courtyard-philadelphia-downtown/
Less than a 3-hour drive from New York, Mystic, Connecticut is a small seaside village known for its sailing and maritime attractions. Mystic declares ownership of America's largest Maritime Museum, Mystic Seaport. There's also the Mystic Aquarium & Institute for Exploration, where you can spy on exotic fish and sea creatures. For shopping and dining, try the Olde Mistick Village, which offers a variety of casual shops. The Mystic River Bascule Bridge, an old drawbridge, is also a popular tourist attraction.
Ramada Mystic
9 Whitehall Ave.
I-95 Exit 90
Mystic, CT 06355
860-536-4281
sales@ramadamystichotel.com
Comfort Inn
48 Whitehall Ave.
Mystic, CT 06355
860-572-8531
http://www.choicehotels.com/ires/en-US/html/Availability?sid=aLXVi.lwm5hghI5g.12#rsm-rate-RACK
Howard Johnson
253 Greenmanville Ave.
Mystic, CT 06355
860-536-2654
http://www.mystichotels.com/contact_us.html