Choosing a weekend getaway often comes down to a simple decision: city excitement or a relaxing beach escape. While New York City delivers world-class entertainment, a beach trip offers the perfect chance to slow down and unwind by the water. Driving to either destination during busy travel periods can mean traffic delays, tolls, and parking challenges. Fortunately, BestBus offers a convenient way to travel between these destinations without driving.
Here's a look at both options to help you choose the right trip and plan your next ride on a comfortable bus to Delaware from NYC.
Choose NYC If You Love Excitement and Entertainment
New York City remains one of the most vibrant destinations in the world. It is an ideal getaway for travelers who thrive on energy and want a weekend packed with activities. The city offers countless landmarks, museums, restaurants, and neighborhoods to explore.
Manhattan is the perfect choice if your ideal weekend involves:
- World-Class Entertainment: Catching a live Broadway musical, a comedy show, or a concert at an iconic venue.
- Sightseeing and Landmarks: Visiting historic spots like Times Square, Central Park, or the Empire State Building.
- Luxury Retail and Shopping: Exploring massive flagship stores, boutique shops, and unique markets.
- Dining and Culture: Eating at world-renowned restaurants and visiting famous museums.
Few places offer the same level of energy and activity as New York City, making it a great destination for a fast-paced weekend where you want to see and do as much as possible. BestBus makes arriving in the city incredibly easy. The designated Manhattan drop-off point is centrally located at Penn Station, on the corner of 34th Street and 9th Avenue. From there, you'll have easy access to transit, hotels, and many of Manhattan's major attractions.
Choose Delaware If You Want a Summer Beach Weekend
If you'd rather trade busy streets for ocean views, a summer trip to the Delaware coast may be the better choice. Instead of busy pavements and packed schedules, this getaway focuses on ocean views, waterfront dining, and a more relaxed pace.
When traveling with BestBus to the Delaware shore, the route focuses specifically on Dewey Beach. The designated stop is centrally located at 1301 Coastal Highway, Dewey Beach, DE.
This drop-off point sits directly in front of the Hyatt Place hotel on Route 1. Positioned on a narrow strip of land just two blocks wide, this location puts you steps from the Atlantic Ocean shoreline on one side and the scenic Rehoboth Bay on the other. Directly behind the stop, the Ruddertowne complex offers easy access to bayfront restaurants, shops, nightlife, and water activities.
Comparing Costs
Budget plays a major role in planning, and these two destinations offer very different financial footprints. Manhattan is notoriously expensive. Between high hotel rates, Broadway tickets, fine dining, museum admissions, and parking fees, a short trip adds up quickly.
A weekend in Dewey Beach is often more affordable. You can spend your days relaxing on the sand for free, grab casual boardwalk food, and enjoy local waterfront crab houses. Taking the bus can help reduce travel costs by eliminating tolls, fuel expenses, and parking fees.
Which Destination Is Best for Families?
Both locations offer memorable family experiences, but the day-to-day rhythm of the trips will be completely different:
- New York City (Active & Educational): This is a fantastic choice for families with older children who want an educational and visually stimulating trip. Walking through Central Park, visiting the American Museum of Natural History, seeing the cityscape from an observation deck, and experiencing the bright lights of Times Square create unforgettable memories. It is a highly active weekend that keeps everyone moving.
- Delaware (Laid-Back Beach Vacation): This is a much better fit for families looking for a classic, relaxed summer getaway. The Dewey Beach area allows families to slow down and focus on spending quality time together by the water. Children can build sandcastles, swim in the ocean, and explore the nearby Rehoboth boardwalk games and amusement rides. The casual atmosphere at many local restaurants also makes dining with children easier.
Important Route Details
The NYC to Dewey Beach route is a seasonal, weekend-only service operating strictly between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend. The route is designed for summer weekend travel and does not operate on weekdays or during the off-season.
Please note that the premium Prime Bus upgrade is not offered on this specific route. However, our standard fleet includes many of the same amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard restrooms, and complimentary bottled water.
Which Weekend Trip Is Right for You?
Choosing your destination ultimately comes down to what you want to experience when you step out of your hotel door.
Choose New York City if you want:
- An energetic, fast-paced atmosphere
- World-class theater, live shows, and nightlife
- Famous museums and historic landmarks
- A destination that is open and exciting all year round
Choose Delaware if you want:
- Direct access to the beach at Coastal Highway
- A relaxing, slow-paced summer weekend escape
- Outdoor water sports, kayaking, and bay views
- A seasonal beach trip focused on sun and sand
Book a Bus to Delaware from NYC with BestBus!
Whether you're planning a trip to Manhattan or a summer getaway to Dewey Beach, BestBus provides a reliable and comfortable way to travel. Avoid the traffic, tolls, and parking hassles that often come with driving.
Seats can sell out quickly during busy summer weekends and holiday periods, so early booking is highly recommended. Sign up for a membership online to start earning travel rewards and secure your tickets today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the bus stop at Rehoboth Beach?
No, BestBus drops off only in Dewey Beach at 1301 Coastal Highway. However, Rehoboth Beach is just a 5-minute taxi, rideshare, or local summer trolley ride away.
Can I take this bus on a weekday?
No. The NYC to Dewey Beach route is a seasonal, weekend-only service that runs exclusively between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day weekend.