Day trips from NYC for families are great ways to escape the city, and this guide will show you how there is a ton to do.
Many people erroneously believe that New York City isn’t a family-friendly destination, but I’m here to tell you that it is.
Although the Big Apple has a ton of things for families to do, there are even more outside of the city.
In this guide, I will have you zigzag the entire region, although I promise I will try not to have you drive for more than 2 hours.
So, if you’re looking for fun things to do with the kids, read on.
Family Day Trips from New York City
New York City is a great destination for going on an exciting day trip that the whole family will enjoy.
Just a short distance from the city, there are tons of things for families to do.
For example, there’s Bear Mountain State Park, which is a picturesque retreat.
This is perfect for picnicking, fishing, swimming, and exploring numerous trails.
For a journey back in time, drag the kids to Wild West City.
They will definitely enjoy this unique theme park with pony rides, train adventures, and mini-golf.
Bayville Adventure Park and Keansburg Amusement Park captivate families with rides, arcade games, and delectable beach treats.
And that’s really great, but the kids will thank you for Sesame Place.
The famous television show of the same name is the inspiration behind this Pennsylvanian spot.
If you’re willing to venture a bit farther, you won’t be disappointed with the charming seaside town of Montauk.
Finally, for a sophisticated family escape, head to the Hamptons.
This place is popular for its beautiful beaches, upscale towns, high-end shops, and gourmet dining options.
So, yeah, whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or educational experiences, these day trips from New York City have something for everyone in the family.
I also want to say that these day trips from NYC for families are enjoyable for all… even if you’re a young single person!
So, let’s dive deep into these…
Six Flags Great Adventure
Situated in Jackson, New Jersey, Six Flags Great Adventure is a renowned theme park that offers an array of exhilarating experiences.
Thrill-seekers can enjoy the park’s adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, exciting water rides, and captivating live entertainment.
Additionally, Six Flags Great Adventure provides a unique safari adventure, allowing visitors to observe exotic animals up close.
With its diverse attractions, the park guarantees an action-packed day for all.
Located just a 90-minute drive from NYC, families can conveniently escape the city and indulge in the thrills and excitement that Six Flags Great Adventure has to offer.
You could leave your hotel after breakfast and arrive before lunch!
Land of Make Believe
Located in Hope, New Jersey, Land of Make Believe is a smaller amusement park perfect for younger children.
With gentle rides, water attractions, and interactive play areas, it promises a day of fun and imagination.
Just a 90-minute drive from NYC, families can easily escape the city and enjoy the park’s offerings.
From thrilling water slides to engaging play zones, Land of Make Believe provides a delightful experience tailored to the younger ones.
Parents can relax knowing their children are entertained in a safe and enjoyable environment, making it an ideal day trip for families in search of amusement and adventure.
This is definitely one of the best day trips from NYC for families.
Bear Mountain State Park
Bear Mountain State Park is a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of New York City.
Located just 50 miles north of Manhattan, it’s the perfect day trip for families seeking outdoor adventures.
The park’s lush, mountainous landscape offers a range of activities, from picnicking and fishing to swimming in the pool and exploring numerous trails.
With its scenic beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Bear Mountain State Park is an ideal destination for families looking to enjoy nature and have fun together.
Wild West City
Wild West City takes families on a journey back in time to the Old West.
Situated approximately 60 miles west of New York City, this unique theme park offers a range of activities for all ages.
From pony rides and a petting zoo to train rides and stagecoach adventures, visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit of the Wild West.
The park even features mini-golf for some friendly competition.
Wild West City provides a fun and educational experience for families, allowing them to step into the exciting world of cowboys, saloons, and shootouts.
Bayville Adventure Park
Bayville Adventure Park is a thrilling destination for families seeking action-packed fun.
Located just 35 miles east of New York City, this park offers a variety of exciting activities for adventurers of all ages.
From treasure hunts and bumper boats to bungee jumping and other daring adventures, Bayville Adventure Park has something for everyone.
It’s a place where Indiana Jones enthusiasts can test their skills and have a blast.
Whether you’re looking for heart-pumping rides or engaging challenges, this park provides an unforgettable experience that will leave your family craving more.
What makes Bayville one of the great day trips from NYC for families is that it’s really fun but nearby!
Keansburg Amusement Park
Keansburg Amusement Park is a classic boardwalk destination that promises a day of amusement and enjoyment for families.
Situated approximately 40 miles south of New York City, this lively park offers a wide array of rides, including bumper cars and thrilling roller coasters.
Alongside the rides, visitors can also enjoy arcade games and indulge in delicious beach eats.
Keansburg Amusement Park captures the nostalgia of traditional boardwalk fun, making it a fantastic day trip option for families looking for a mix of excitement, entertainment, and tasty treats.
It’s the perfect place to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom
Located in Allentown, Pennsylvania, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom is a family-friendly amusement park that caters to all ages.
With a diverse selection of thrill rides, family-friendly attractions, and a water park called Wildwater Kingdom, it promises a day of excitement and entertainment.
Just a two-hour drive from NYC, families can easily escape the city and immerse themselves in the park’s thrilling experiences.
Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping roller coasters or splashing fun in the water, Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom has something for everyone.
Embark on a memorable adventure and create lasting memories with your loved ones at this vibrant amusement park.
Montauk
Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is approximately a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from Manhattan.
This charming seaside town is a haven for adventurers and sunseekers alike.
Montauk is famous for its world-class surfing spots, attracting surfers from all over.
The pristine beaches provide the perfect backdrop for sunbathing and relaxing.
Food enthusiasts will appreciate the local food truck scene, offering delicious seafood and other culinary delights.
As the day winds down, Montauk treats visitors to breathtaking sunsets, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
In my opinion, Montauk is one of the best day trips from NYC for families. This charming town is really all about summer fun the whole family.
Sesame Place
Located in Hulmeville, Pennsylvania, Sesame Place is a family-friendly amusement park inspired by Sesame Street.
It is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from New York City.
The park features a variety of rides and attractions, including interactive parades, water slides, and Elmo’s World.
Children can meet their favorite Sesame Street characters and enjoy entertainment tailored to young visitors.
Sesame Place offers a fun-filled day of laughter, adventure, and educational experiences.
Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park
Lake Compounce is in Bristol, Connecticut.
This is the oldest continuously operating amusement park in the United States.
So, definitely, this is a fun fact the kids will love!
It offers a mix of thrilling rides, family attractions, water slides, and live entertainment.
For example, the park features roller coasters that will make the kids scream for sure.
Likewise, there are fun water rides that they will enjoy, as well as a classic carousel and a variety of other attractions suitable for all ages.
Lake Compounce is known for its scenic setting, as it is situated on the shores of a lake.
Plus, it isn’t that far from the Big Apple.
At approximately a two-hour drive from New York City, it makes it a feasible day trip option.
The Hamptons
Located on the eastern end of Long Island, the Hamptons is a renowned summer getaway for affluent New Yorkers.
The region comprises several upscale towns, including Southampton, East Hampton, and Bridgehampton, each offering beautiful beaches, luxurious estates, high-end shops, and gourmet dining options.
The Hamptons is known for its glamorous lifestyle, attracting celebrities and socialites.
From New York City, the Hamptons can be reached by car in approximately two to three hours, depending on traffic.
Alternatively, there are also train and bus options available.
Whether you’re looking to relax on pristine beaches, explore charming villages, or attend exclusive parties, the Hamptons provide a sophisticated and idyllic escape from the bustling city.
Family Day Trip Eateries
If the kids are raging during the day trip, there are several famous family-friendly restaurants outside of New York City.
Friendly’s is a beloved chain of family-friendly restaurants known for their ice cream treats, burgers, sandwiches, and classic American comfort food.
Although it started in Massachusetts, they now have locations in various states, including Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Likewise, I absolutely love Rainforest Cafe.
This is a themed restaurant that has a unique dining experience for kids and families.
The restaurant is designed to resemble a tropical rainforest, complete with animatronic animals, lush vegetation, and simulated thunderstorms.
There are Rainforest Cafe locations in various states across the country, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut.
Of course, who can forget Chuck E. Cheese?
This is a popular entertainment center and restaurant chain that caters to children.
They offer a combination of arcade games, amusement rides, and pizza.
Chuck E. Cheese has multiple locations outside of NYC, providing a fun and interactive dining experience for kids.
Meanwhile, If you’re visiting the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania, make sure to check out their on-site cafe.
The cafe offers a variety of kid-friendly food options and snacks.
It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the creative and colorful atmosphere of the Crayola Experience.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other kid-friendly restaurants across different states that offer a welcoming atmosphere and menus tailored to children’s tastes.
It’s always a good idea to check the specific locations and their offerings before visiting.
Final Thoughts
New York City is full of family activities, but day trips from NYC for families ensure that both the kids and adults have fun!
In this guide, I shared with you all the amazing things families can do here.
When it wasn’t possible to link to the actual attraction, I made sure to give you directions.
So, it’s time to really plan that family vacation to the Big Apple and feel confident that the kids will also have a great time.
Enjoy New York!
AJ Paris is a travel photographer based in New York. He is the editor of Caravanzers.
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