Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock
Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock

The best day trips from NYC with kids

For a fun-filled family adventure, here's where to go for a day trip from NYC with kids

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There are so many amazing things to do with kids in NYC that you can easily fill their weekends and after-school hours with nonstop entertainment. When they’re off school, however, that’s a great time to think about a day trip from NYC with the kids for some out-of-the-ordinary adventures. While there are plenty of options for weekend getaways to family resorts and other nearby attractions, a day trip means lots of fun without making reservations or packing a bag. These day trips for kids include epic options like sailing, hiking, biking and exploring the outdoors. Head to a museum, water park, amusement park or beach, all within a couple hours of the city, and you’re sure to have a blast on your next adventure away from the city.

Day trips from NYC with kids

1. Riverhead, NY

Travel time: 2 hours from NYC

This Suffolk County town boasts more than just the sprawling Tanger Outlet. It's home to the Long Island Aquarium, which houses penguins, otters, octopus and one of the largest all-living, closed-system coral reef displays. Children will love getting their hands wet in the touch tank and taking a look at the sharks. Refuel at Turkuaz Grill, a spot full of homey vibes, delicious Mediterranean fare and outdoor picnic tables. If the kids are itching to get into the water, Splish Splash Water Park satisfies that craving with 96 acres of water rides, pools and tube slides. 

Time Out tip: Got a brave little ocean explorer? The Aquarium offers an up-close shark dive experience.

2. Cape May, NJ

Travel time: 2.5 hours from NYC

This beachy destination, located on the southern tip of New Jersey, is full of great spots for families and curious kids. In addition to strolling along its white sand beaches, families can explore the remains of the U.S.S. Atlantus or venture out into the waters on a tour with Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center. Head to the Cape May Count Park & Zoo, an admission-free park complete with trolley trains, a carousel, a rock climbing wall and the Tree to Tree Adventure Park.

Time Out tip: If you’re in town on a day with clear skies, pack a picnic lunch and climb the 199 steps to get to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse.

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3. Bucks County, PA

Travel time: 2 hours from NYC

Whether your kids prefer indoor fun, outdoor adventures or close encounters with their favorite TV characters, this spot has it all. As the home of Sesame Place, children will love meeting Elmo, Big Bird and the rest of the furry gang while experiencing thrilling rides tailored just for them. The Bucks County Children’s Museum offers interactive educational exhibits where kids can dig for buried treasure, build their own race car and learn how to operate the Delaware Canal systemLittle ones can take a ride on the hand-carved wooden figures on the restored 1922 Grand Carousel at Giggleberry Fair before enjoying arcade games in the Game Room or strolling through the shops at 18th-century Peddler’s Village.

Time Out Tip: Peddler’s Village offers plenty of dining options too, when hunger strikes.

4. Jersey City, NJ

Travel time: 40 mins from NYC

Keep the schlepping to a minimum by hopping across the Hudson for a hassle-free day with the little ones. Jersey City boasts some amazing family-friendly entertainment that can be tackled while keeping the Manhattan skyline within view: Tiny Greenhouse, Jersey Jungle Indoor Playground, Primetime Sports, and hours of awe-worthy entertainment at the Liberty Science Center.

Time Out tip: If the weather is nice, pack a picnic and enjoy at Hamilton Parkor Newport Green Park.

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5. Norwalk, CT

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC

Make your first stop in Norwalk the interactive Stepping Stones Museum for Children for kids 10 and under. The Energy Lab is one of the venue's must-see science-themed offerings. Next, be sure to hit up the impressive Maritime Aquarium where kids learn about marine animals that live in the Long Island Sound, meet several varieties of real, live dragons and even touch the tops of jiggly jellyfish.

Time Out tip: Be sure to check out the epic selection of IMAX films at the Aquarium.

6. Wildwood, NJ

Travel time: 2.5 hours from NYC

This Jersey Shore town is more family-friendly than MTV cameras led us to believe. Morey's Piers offers two parks for one price: Raging Waters and the Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club, a 10-minute walk or five-minute tram ride away. Those who want to remain on dry land can hit up carnival rides and other attractions at three amusement piers though combo tickets are available if your little ones can't decide. Grab a bite at Crab & Seafood Shack before finishing up the day. 

Time Out tip: If you decide to make a weekend of it, El Coronado Resort offers poolside barbecues, movies and live entertainment. 

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7. New Windsor, NY

Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes from NYC

Families looking for a cultural getaway can traverse 500 grassy acres of large-scale sculptures at Storm King Arts Center, a modern art mecca located in the foothills of the Hudson Valley. For lunch, stop by the The Storm King Café, which uses locally grown ingredients in its salads, soups and sandwiches. Get in some more educational fun at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum.

Time Out tip: Get in a little hike at the peaceful Kowawese Unique Area at Plum Point.

8. The Hamptons, NY

Travel time: 2.5 hours from NYC

The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center immerses kids in each exhibit by engaging all five senses. Kids smell foxes, touch marine animals and look through telescopes as they explore. The nature trail behind the museum connects to the nine-mile Long Pond Greenbelt. The quaint Sip 'n Soda has typical diner fare, but their famous ice cream sodas are a must. Sugar Daddy’s Toy Store has a huge selection of Rainbow Looms, Disney Infinity characters and a life-size illuminated Iron Man that makes for a fun photo op.

Time Out tip: Hit the beachoptions include beautiful beaches like Main Beach, Cooper's Beach and Ditch Plains Beach.

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9. Lehigh Valley, PA

Travel time: 2 hours from NYC

If the family can’t choose between thrilling amusement rides and swimming pools on a hot summer day, then an itinerary centered on Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom will satisfy all. The older set will enjoy the twisting, turning dry and wet roller coasters while little ones enjoy Peanuts-themed rides.

Time Out tip: Start with the rides then break during peak midday temps at the water park.

10. Greenport, NY

Travel time: 2 hours from NYC

A picturesque former whaling village, Greenport boasts a walkable downtown of shops, galleries and restaurants featuring local seafood. At Preston's Dock, sign up for a cruise aboard the Glory, a 30-foot solar-powered sailing vessel. Just 15 minutes away, kids can swim at Orient Beach State Park, which has a restored lighthouse at its tip, while keeping an eye out for wildlife like great blue herons and osprey. Back in Greenport, chow down at Claudio's, a favorite since 1870. Dine on the catch of the day while kids sample fish filet sandwiches.

Time Out tip: Don't miss the Railroad Museum of Long Island if you have a little train enthusiast.

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11. West Point, NY

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC 

Our nation’s history and Gothic architecture await at the prestigious United States Military Academy . Begin at the Visitors Center where you can buy tickets for the one-hour bus tour (no self-guided tours are permitted; check westpointtours.com for schedule). The first stop is the massive granite Cadet Chapel, home of the world’s largest pipe organ as well as astounding stained glass windows. Trophy Point is another highlight, with its breathtaking vista overlooking the Hudson River. Post-tour, peruse the gift shop, which has an ample selection of kiddie-sized Army gear, from hooded sweatshirts to plush mascots and make a stop at the free West Point Museum, where weapons aficionados of all ages will gawk at the collection of swords, rifles and tanks from every time period.

Time Out tip: After leaving the grounds, head to the Ice Cream Shoppe in Highland Falls for cones or milkshakes.

12. Six Flags in Jackson, NJ

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC

Check out amazing activities from A–Z at Six Flags Great Adventure. You can zip down a log flume, brave a swinging pirate ship, brave a 15-story ferris wheel and even fly like Superman (not for the faint of heart). Plus, with the Safari Experience you can see 1,200 animals all from the comfort of your car.

Time Out tip: Stay the night to experience a real safari adventure at the Savannah Sunset Resort & Spa.

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  • Attractions
  • Theme parks
  • Purchase

Travel time: 1 hour from NYC

Boundless Adventures is an enormous aerial adventure park on a forested part of the campus of Purchase College in Westchester: There are nine courses with more than 90 bridges, 17 zip lines and a diverse terrain that will dazzle you with its natural beauty. New to aerial adventure parks? No problem. Boundless Adventures has four difficulty levels, which means every participant will be matched with the right course.

Time Out tip: Plan on spending around four hours climbing, zipping and cruising through the trees.

  • Things to do

OK, so this is technically still in NYC, but a visit Governors Island makes for a spectacular day out. Located in the heart of New York Harbor, one of our go-to family attractions offers scenic views, a country environment and a plethora of outdoor activities for kids and adults (like one of the coolest kids' playgrounds NYC—with mighty impressive slides).

Time Out tip: Be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, water and snacks.

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15. The Land of Make Believe & Pirate's Cove in Hope, NJ

Travel time: 1.5 hours from NYC

Land of Make Believe & Pirate’s Cove amusement park is just a short drive from NYC, making it a perfect pick for warm-weather weekends—the younger set will find plenty to do, including jumpy frog rides, a swaying tugboat ride, a splash park area with a fort and a 1000-gallon dump bucket, a lazy river ride with single or double tubes, a shallow wave pool with a pirate ship that has slides and spray showers, and some fun water slides.

Time Out Tip: The water area opens later in the morning, so hit the rides first, then change into swimsuits for slides and the lazy river

  • Things to do

Just because you live in the Big Apple doesn't mean you can't spend time in the great outdoors. There are amazing family-friendly hikes close to NYC—in fact, the Bronx River Greenway and Inwood Hill Park are right in the middle of the city! So check the weather, pack a picnic and make plans to visit mother nature with the fam. These hiking trails are great for children of all ages, from toddlers out for a stroll to bigger kids looking to go for a scramble.

Time Out tip: Bring plenty of water and snacks, and choose a trail with engaging features like waterfalls and views.

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  • Things to do

Nothing says summertime like a bowl of freshly-picked fruit. When the warm weather hits, grab the whole family and enjoy the best spots for picking your own, from strawberries and blueberries to peaches and cherries. You can even PYO sunflowers. These extra-sweet destinations will certainly inspire delicious seasonal baking that the whole family will love—plus time outdoors certainly beats a trip to the grocery store. 

Time Out tip: Harvest times vary, so always check first before heading out to a farm.

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