Scenic One-Day Road Trip from Manhattan to Ithaca with Notable Stops

Day 1: Manhattan to Ithaca Scenic Road Trip

Manhattan to Ithaca, NY, USA on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Buvette, Manhattan

Enjoy a French-style breakfast at Buvette, a cozy spot known for croissants and coffee to start your day energizing before the road trip.
USD35, 1h0m

8:15am

Drive to Bear Mountain State Park

A short 1-hour drive north brings you to Bear Mountain State Park, a perfect spot for fresh air and stunning views of the Hudson Highlands. Ideal for a short hike or lookout visit.
USD10 parking fee, 1h30m

10:00am

Storm King Art Center Visit

Drive approximately 30 minutes to the Storm King Art Center, a large open-air museum featuring monumental sculptures set in rolling hills and fields.
USD22, 2h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at A Tavola Trattoria, New Paltz

After a 25-minute drive to historic New Paltz, enjoy Italian fare at A Tavola Trattoria known for its homemade pasta and fresh ingredients.
USD40, 1h15m

2:15pm

Rip Van Winkle Bridge, Kingston

Drive 20 minutes north to Kingston and cross the scenic Rip Van Winkle Bridge to experience views over the Hudson River and a photo opportunity.
Free, 30m

3:00pm

Explore Woodstock

Continue another 25-minute drive to Woodstock. Stroll through this artsy town, checking out galleries and shops filled with local crafts.
Free, 1h0m

4:15pm

Drive to Ithaca

Begin the final stretch with a 2.5-hour drive west to Ithaca, passing through scenic Finger Lakes countryside as you approach your destination.
Free, 2h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Moosewood Restaurant, Ithaca

Conclude your day with a delicious farm-to-table dinner at the iconic Moosewood Restaurant, known for its vegetarian and international cuisine.
USD40, 1h30m