Budget adventures near New York

In these difficult economic conditions we're all looking for ways to save some money while still putting a little adventure into our lives. Now more than ever we need a distraction from the daily grind that won't empty our pocket books. Fortunately, the New York Daily News is here to help, with some great suggestions for cheap adventures close to NYC.

The inexpensive escapse come in a variety of flavors, ranging from an epic mountain bike ride in the Allegheny Mountains of Pennsylvania to taking in the beauty of upstate New York via hot air balloon. Each of the suggestions includes a nice description of what to expect on the day long adventure, as well as some tips for stretching your dollars, such as the use of budget hotels, complimentary continental breakfasts, and unadvertised specials.

An example of one of the unexpected outdoor adventures includes a trip to New Hampshire's White Mountain National Forest, which offers a tree-top canopy tour that put visitors at elevations between 1600 and 3000 feet as they fly through the scenic forest on ten zip lines and two suspension bridges. The travel package costs $115 but in addition to the canopy tour, travelers get a night's stay at the historic Mount Washington Resort, a round of golf, and a visit to the hotel's spa.

Each of the other budget adventures offer similar amenities on the cheap and with plenty of summer still ahead, it's never too late to put a little adventure into your life. And at these prices, how can you resist?

Filed under: Biking, Climbing, Arts and Culture, Hiking, History, Paddling, Scuba Diving, North America, United States, Camping, Ecotourism, Budget Travel