03 Apr 5 Family Friendly Vacation Destinations Near New York City

If you’re looking for a great family holiday destination near New York City, you’re in luck! There are plenty of exciting and fun holiday destinations to choose from that are just a short drive away. From adventure parks to family friendly beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are 5 of the best family friendly holiday destinations near New York City.

1) Lake Placid, New York
For families looking to take a break from the hustle and bustle of New York City, Lake Placid, New York is the perfect family friendly destination. Located outside of NYC, this small mountain village offers a wealth of activities and natural beauty that are sure to delight your family.

The beautiful Adirondack Mountains provide the backdrop for many of Lake Placid’s attractions, including the Olympic ski jumps, the former site of the 1932 and 1980 Winter Olympics. Here you can take a tour of the Olympic Jumping Complex and learn about its historic past.

If you’re looking for a great family-friendly activity, then Mirror Lake Beach is the place to go. The beach offers swimming, boating, kayaking, and even paddle boarding, all in a safe and friendly environment.

The area also features several great hiking trails for all ages and abilities, such as the Cascade Trail and the Jack Rabbit Trail. For a more leisurely activity, Lake Placid offers horse-drawn carriage rides and scenic boat tours on Lake Placid.

For those interested in learning more about the area’s history, there are several historical sites and museums in town. The Adirondack History Museum offers a range of exhibits on the Adirondack region, while the Olympic Museum celebrates Lake Placid’s past as an Olympic host city.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure or educational experiences, Lake Placid has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery and family friendly atmosphere, it’s easy to see why Lake Placid is one of the best family friendly vacation destinations near New York City.

2) The Catskills, New York
Located just a few hours outside of NYC, the Catskills are a great family friendly destination that offers plenty of outdoor activities. With its mountainous terrain, lush forests, and breathtaking views, this region is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy some fresh air.

There are lots of options for families to explore in the Catskills, including hikes, waterfalls, scenic drives, and nature walks. You can take your pick from activities like skiing, snowshoeing, rock climbing, boating, fishing, and much more. In the summertime, you can cool off in one of the many swimming holes located throughout the region.

When it comes to accommodation, you can choose from camping spots, hotels, cabins, or even resorts. There are also a variety of restaurants to choose from for your meals, so you won’t be stuck eating out of cans during your stay. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, the Catskills offer something for everyone outside of NYC.

3) Hershey, Pennsylvania
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly destination near New York City, Hershey, Pennsylvania is an excellent choice. This charming town is known for its iconic Hershey’s chocolate, but it’s also home to many other attractions. Families can enjoy a range of activities from Hershey Park amusement park and Hershey Story museum to the Hershey Gardens and ZooAmerica North American wildlife park.

Hershey Park is a great place to spend a day with your family, with over 70 rides, shows, and attractions, as well as live entertainment. The park offers thrill rides such as Great Bear and Fahrenheit, as well as family-friendly experiences like the classic wooden coaster, Wildcat, and the new roller coaster, Laff Trakk. There’s also an 11-acre water park and kid-friendly zones that include miniature golf, a carousel, and more.

The Hershey Story Museum is another great option for families. It tells the story of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of Hershey’s chocolate, and his quest to create the “perfect” chocolate bar. You can explore interactive exhibits, view vintage artifacts, and see how the world’s most popular candy bar is made.

For outdoor lovers, Hershey Gardens is the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. You can admire the lush gardens, visit the butterfly atrium, and take part in interactive activities like scavenger hunts. There’s also ZooAmerica North American wildlife park, where visitors can learn about local animals and observe them in their natural habitats. Hershey is a great family vacation destination near New York City.

4) The Poconos, Pennsylvania
The Poconos are a beautiful mountain range located in northeastern Pennsylvania. This is the perfect destination for families looking for outdoor adventures, water activities, and fun attractions. There is no shortage of things to do in the Poconos with its numerous state parks and trails, along with lakes and rivers that offer a variety of water sports. Visitors can go on hikes, take scenic drives, or explore caves. For some adventure, visitors can try whitewater rafting, fishing, kayaking, tubing, and boating.

In addition to outdoor activities, the Poconos also have plenty of other attractions. Families can visit museums, amusement parks, golf courses, and spas. There are also plenty of entertainment options such as movie theaters, shopping centers, and live music venues. The area also offers great restaurants and unique eateries. Visitors can stay at a variety of accommodations from cozy cabins to luxury resorts.

The Poconos are a great family friendly destination for those looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City. With its stunning landscapes and plethora of activities, this region has something for everyone. Whether it’s spending time outdoors or exploring historical sites, the Poconos make for the perfect holiday getaway.

5) Long Island, New York
Long Island is one of the closest family friendly vacation destinations to New York City. This area has a lot to offer for families, from exciting attractions to nature-filled adventures. Long Island offers a variety of beaches, such as Jones Beach and Robert Moses State Park, both of which have boardwalks and plenty of activities. There are also fun attractions like Splish Splash Water Park, Atlantis Marine World Aquarium, and the world-renowned Long Island Aquarium and Exhibition Center. For families who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and parks. Long Island is home to the Fire Island National Seashore and Montauk Point Lighthouse, where families can explore nature up close. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options throughout Long Island that the whole family can enjoy. So if you’re looking for a family-friendly holiday destination near New York City, Long Island is a great choice!