Family Friendly Summer Road-trips to Take this Season
Looking to take a trip with your family this summer? Getting out of the city may be just the thing you need! If you’re not looking to go too far, try a summer road trip. Skip the hustle and bustle of the airport, and make memories on the road towards your destination.
But before you get in the car or train, let’s create your perfect road trip itinerary. Finding a vacation that all of your kids will enjoy isn’t always the easiest task. That’s why we rounded up our favorite summer road trips this year. Read on to find the best destination for your family this summer!
Dutchess County Fair
Dutchess County Fair, NY
Whether this is your first time visiting this famous fair or it’s an annual outing your family awaited all year long, the Dutchess County Fair is among the world’s best fairs. You’ll love that it is family-friendly, with activities and adventures for all, and it is only a car or train ride away.
This year’s 178th fair runs from August 20th through 25th in Rhinebeck, NY. As the largest agricultural six-day fair in NY, there’s plenty for every member of the family to do–go on rides, eat great food and listen to entertaining music. The fair’s goal is to give visitors an appreciation for agriculture while educating them on where food comes from, all while having a blast!
Kids will love meeting farm animals like cows, horses, pigs, chickens, sheep, rabbits and goats. With over 1,000 individual exhibitors, visitors won’t know what to do first. Explore 12 acres of livestock, milking demonstrations and sheep shearing, meet costumed storytellers from the early 1900’s, and shop artisanal goods and handmade crafts and quilts. Younger kids (ages 3-10) can visit a hands-on mock farm in the AgVenture Activity Tent while adults will appreciate the horticultural beauty of dozens of themed garden displays. Be sure to purchase discount tickets to secure a spot at a great deal! Dutchessfair.com.
Frederick County, MD
Summer in Frederick County, Maryland is a treasure trove of family fun with activities that cater to all ages. Embrace the great outdoors with a visit to Catoctin Mountain where you and the family can hike to one of the most scenic overlooks in Maryland — Chimney Rock. For adventurous spirits, Tree Trekkers offers thrilling zip-lining courses and aerial adventures.
Historic railroading in Frederick is on full display with the Walkersville Southern Railroad, where families can ride historical trains through scenic landscapes.
Frederick County doesn’t shy away from educational fun. Monocacy National Battlefield offers trails and guided ranger tours sharing the forgotten story of an important Civil War battle that saved Washington, DC. Discover where Civil War history and science collide at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine in the heart of historic Downtown Frederick.
And any visit to Frederick County would not be complete without a visit to one of its creameries. Grab a scoop or a cone at South Mountain Creamery or Rocky Point Creamery, and you’ll taste the best ice cream Maryland offers — right on the farm in the rolling countryside, visitfrederick.org.
Greene County, NY
Embrace the thrill of endless adventures this summer. Nestled along the majestic Hudson River and boasting the loftiest peaks in the Catskill Mountains, the Great Northern Catskills has been a haven for adventure-seekers for over a century.
For families, it’s a chance to immerse themselves in the serenity of old-growth forests or embark on a quest for hidden waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, the trails of the Great Northern Catskills offer a haven for every type of explorer.
If the lake life is more your family’s speed, then ditch those overcrowded beaches and wander on the wild side. The Great Northern Catskills are famously known for some of the best paddling locations in New York State, making it a haven for avid anglers and boating enthusiasts alike.
The mountain towns come alive excitedly as the sun sets on a picture-perfect summer day. Scents of buttery popcorn waft through the trees as our drive-in movie theaters roll on the silver screen.
Wander along the brightly painted pubs and retro eateries in the “Painted Village in the Sky” or grow inspired by the creative energy woven into American art’s birthplace.
The towns that give this county its unique character buzzes with local farmer’s markets, live music, and more. Soon, the warmer weather will roll in, and crowds of multi-generational families will celebrate their summer traditions.
The Catskills’ famous family resorts will open their doors and invite guests to wander the property, pick up a game of pickleball, or relax by the pool. So whether one’s looking to reconnect with nature, indulge in local flavors, or create unforgettable memories with friends and family – Let’s say this is just the place. greatnortherncatskills.com
The Kartrite Resort
Want an all-in-one destination that will guarantee endless family adventures this summer? The Kartrite Resort located in the Catskill Mountains is home to NY’s biggest indoor waterpark and much more. Spend an entire day at the 11 waterpark attractions just a 90-minute drive from the city, then check into one of the new and modern resort suites to get some rest. All suites (available as 1, 2 or 3 bedroom) come with 4 passes for the waterpark for the day of check in and check out. Beyond the water fun, enjoy The Kartrite’s 7 eclectic eateries and bars, arts & crafts, archery, goat yoga, pony rides and hiking. Plus, to escape the heat, head indoors to endless fun at Playopolis arcade, laser tag, ropes course, rock climbing, bowling, virtual reality and more. With an action-packed calendar of complimentary daily activities to state-of-the-art fitness facilities, scenic hiking trails on property and countless local attractions, there’s always something fun to do for all ages at The Kartrite. And if there is a special occasion coming up like a summer birthday or bar/bat mitzvah, exciting promotions and packages await!
Mountain Creek
If your family craves outdoor excitement, then look no further than Mountain Creek. Located in Vernon Valley of Vernon, NJ, this four season resort has endless outdoor adventures that your whole family will enjoy. You can zip over mountain-top lakes, take in the view from the top of the mountain with a Sky Ride, and even learn to downhill mountain bike.
It’s not every day that you can mountain bike in NYC, so Mountain Creek is a great place to learn new skills and experience things you and your kids haven’t before. Your bigger kids might enjoy the Treescape Ropes Course full of rope walks, obstacles and other climbing elements. And if your family likes golf, there’s an entire 9-hole course at Great Gorge.
When you get too hot from all your excursions, cool off at the waterpark built into the side of a mountain where the water is spring-fed. Continue the thrills on the Colorado River Rapids or relax in the High Tide Wave Pool.
While only about an hour away from NYC, you can stay over for the weekend to take advantage of all the resort has to offer. The Appalachian is a beautiful hotel with slopeside accommodations– perfect for a getaway! There’s a fire pit, gym, heated pool and hot tub, delicious food and more. After a long day of activities, coming back to The Appalachian is just what you need to relax and prep for another fun-filled day.
Orange County, NY
Just an hour north of New York City, Orange County, N.Y., in the beautiful Hudson Valley, is the ultimate summer playground! Spring and summer offer non-stop fun that’s kid-approved. Epic thrills – restaurants for every craving – accommodations from rustic charm to sophisticated elegance – Orange County’s got it all!
Score big with the Orange County Family Fun Trail Passport to snag sweet deals at participating locations while racking up points for fabulous limited-edition prizes. Signing up is easy at orangetourism.org/family-fun-pass.
Think LEGOLAND® New York Resort and super cool museums like the UFO & Paranormal Museum in Pine Bush or Motorcyclepedia Museum in Newburgh, with 650 motorcycles. Feeling adventurous? Swing by Adventureland NY for fun outdoors – including ropes courses, camping, and paintball. And don’t miss out on the farm scene – like One All All One Farm in Goshen, where visitors can book a tour or workshop – or hang with the animals!
In Orange County, farm-to-table freshness rules! Farms and orchards offer the freshest eats and delicious goodies! Pick from places like Soons Orchards, Lawrence Farms Orchards, and more. Stock up on treats bursting with country goodness at Pennings Farm Market. Don’t pass up the farm-fresh ice cream served at Bellvale Farms Creamery; it’s incredibly delicious when enjoyed with spectacular views from atop Mount Peter.
In the evening, wind down at a top-notch eatery, listen to live music, or catch a flick under the stars at the Warwick Drive-In Theater. So, for anyone down for a chill escape off the beaten path but still close to the action, Orange County is where it’s at. Check out OrangeTourism.org and make some memories with the family!
Putnam County Fair, NY
The Putnam County Fair & 4-H Showcase, the country fair families love, is happening July 27th and July 28th at Veterans Memorial Park in Carmel, NY.
An easy car drive away, the fair draws thousands of visitors who enjoy food trucks, treats, vendors, games, demonstrations, exhibits, magic shows, inflatables, farm animals, pony rides, and entertainment. Listen to live music, check out the classic car show, and take part in the Duck Derby Fundraiser, which helps support the educational programs of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County. Free parking and admission.
By car or by train, take a day trip to Putnam County, where there’s always another reason to say, “I Love New York.” Visitputnam.org for more information about what to do and see in Putnam County. This project is supported by a grant awarded to Putnam County Tourism by New York State’s Empire State Development and the I LOVE NY Division of Tourism, visitputnam.org.
Rochester, NY
Looking for the perfect family getaway this summer? Look no further than Rochester, NY! Nestled in the picturesque Finger Lakes region, Rochester offers many attractions and activities that promise to create unforgettable memories for visitors and their loved ones.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and become immersed in Rochester’s natural beauty. With stunning parks, lush greenery, and breathtaking waterfalls, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures. Embark on a scenic hike along the Genesee River Gorge with a stop at High Falls, a 96-foot waterfall in the city center. For thrill-seekers, a visit to the nearby Letchworth State Park, often called the “Grand Canyon of the East,” is a must!
With a visit to the Strong National Museum of Play, kids can unleash their imaginations in the interactive exhibits and play zones among the world’s largest collection of toys, dolls, and games. Then, venture to the Genesee Country Village and Museum, where people can experience life in the 19th century. With its authentic historic buildings, costumed interpreters, and immersive exhibits, the Genesee Country Village and Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the past for the whole family to enjoy.
Summer is only complete with a visit to Seabreeze Amusement Park, where thrilling rides, refreshing water attractions, and entertaining shows await. From roller coasters to water slides, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy at this beloved amusement park.
When it’s time to refuel, Rochester’s vibrant culinary scene has something for everyone. From farm-to-table eateries serving fresh, locally sourced ingredients to iconic diners dishing out classic comfort food, visitors will never go hungry in Rochester. And be sure to satisfy a sweet tooth with a visit to the iconic Abbott’s Frozen Custard—a Rochester tradition since 1902!
With its convenient location, just a short drive from New York City, Rochester is the perfect summer destination for families looking to escape the heat and reconnect with nature, history, and each other. Plus, Rochester offers a variety of family-friendly accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to spacious hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. So why wait? Start planning a Rochester getaway today and create memories that will last a lifetime!
Imagine a place that feels a long way from home yet is so close that visitors won’t have time to ask, “Are we there yet?” Within 30 minutes of NYC, Rockland County has many surprises.
With more than 30,000 acres of open space, Palisades-peak views of the Hudson River and NYC skyline, plus miles of paths for all levels of cyclists and hikers, there’s plenty of ground to cover when taking a family trip to Rockland.
Make a splash at the Rockland Lake State Park water complex, with a huge, gently sloping “zero entrance” swimming pool, diving boards, a “spray ground” and two giant water slides. A 3.2-mile paved trail that circles the lake is popular for taking laps on foot, bikes and rollerblades.
Stop for a bite, some ice cream, or shopping at one of the quaint, historic river towns of Nyack, Piermont, Haverstraw, and Stony Point–all walking-friendly. Urban transplants have helped build a thriving food and art scene with a cozy community feel.
Explore Bear Mountain’s self-guided nature trails–perfect for family hikes and river views–and the Trailside Museum and Zoo, which features rescued animals native to the state.
Bring binoculars to stroll across the Bear Mountain Bridge, celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. Get weekend brunch at Restaurant 1915 at the Bear Mountain Inn or lunch at the Hiker’s Café. The park’s indoor carousel features 42 hand-carved replicas of native animals, such as bears, foxes, and rabbits. Or schedule a real-deal horseback riding experience with lessons at Rebellious Stables.
On a sticky-hot or rainy day, have some indoor fun with Space Adventure Mini Golf and the world’s tallest indoor ropes course at Palisades Climb Adventure. Expect the unexpected when exploring Rockland County.
Smugglers’ Notch, VT
The award-winning Smugglers’ Notch Resort is the ultimate family fun vacation destination. Known for its endless number of unique activities and wide variety of accommodations, perfect for families of all shapes and sizes, Smuggs has been bringing families together for generations.
The Resort features 8 pools, 4 waterslides, games on the green, miles of mountain biking trails, Farmers Market, Pickleball, Vermont Country Fair, fireworks display, magic shows, two championship disc golf courses, and oodles more of activities to enjoy!
Let’s not forget about their 26,000-square foot, two-story FunZone 2.0, featuring climbing walls, bouncy houses, laser tag, mini golf, and more! While the kids take on the warrior courses, mom and dad can enjoy a pina colada and watch the good times unfold. Of course, everyone will have worked up an appetite so the next stop must be the build your own sundae bar at ReFuel Café(guessing)?!
In addition to the never-ending activity options, Smuggs is truly an experience. There’s nothing like waking up to stunning mountain views. Whether they’re hopping on an e-bike, hiking with a llama or relaxing poolside, the non-stop fun allows families to make memories that last a lifetime.
Plan to spend time in the heart of Vermont at Smugglers’ Notch. A day at the resort offers the ideal location for breathtaking scenic vista views combined with acres of landscape almost equaling the expansiveness of America’s national parks! Visit Smuggs.com.
Ulster County, NY
It’s that time of year when idyllic memories come flooding back of lazy, long summer days spent basking in the warm sun, skipping rocks across pristine water, or slurping down an ice-cold root beer float on a gentle summer evening while fireflies dance across the lawn.
Few places have as many cherished memories as summers in the Catskills. With majestic resorts along tranquil waters, streams full of aggressive trout, and Insta-worthy vistas at every turn, Ulster County is the quintessential backdrop to create your nostalgic summer escape upstate.
Ulster’s trails, shops, markets, and star-filled night skies, feel tailor made for summer adventure stock full of all the makings of core memories. And with a plethora of lodging and delicious dining options, people find themselves coming back for more for years to come.
Plan a new summer tradition at visitUlsterCountyNY.com.
Warren County, NY
Lake George Area
More outdoor adventures coming your way with the Lake George Area in Warren County. This family-friendly oasis is filled with adventure for everyone.
Challenge your family to mini golf at one of the six courses. Your kids will love the different themes, from pirates to ‘around the world’ to even a storybook adventure full of wacky characters. Cool off with a sweet treat at Bon’s Ice Cream afterwards.
If you’re craving something more active, peddle your way in the Adirondack mountains on old railroad beds that have been turned into railbike adventures. On these guided tours you’ll get breath-taking views of the Hudson River and Adirondack forest.
And did we mention you can also experience the Wild West? That’s right! You can stay at a family guest ranch with trail riding, nighttime entertainment, a rodeo and more.
Little and big kids alike will enjoy the 70-year-old amusement park, treetop adventures and dinosaur trails. There’s truly something for everyone in Lake George Area.
Wild West City (Wild West City, Sussex County, NJ)
Wild West City is a western theme park located in the beautiful, scenic Skyland’s Region of Sussex County, New Jersey. A perfect day trip for families and couples, Wild West City has been entertaining audiences for over six decades with live action-packed shows, train and stagecoach rides, demonstrations, historical exhibits, music, special events and an opportunity to mingle with cowboys and cowgirls in “Dodge City.”
This year, Wild West City will take on a different theme during the season beginning with Spring Bonanza, then Summer Stampede, Fall Harvest and culminating with Haunted Wild West in October. Meet new characters in brand new mini skits. Be part of the action helping the marshal track down the outlaws. Grab a lasso and test your skills roping steer horns like a cowboy on the range! Seasonal foods and beverages will be featured. Special evant weekends highlight the Civil War, National Day of the Cowboy, Native American Dancing and more! Visit Haunted Wild West in October!
Purchase tickets in advance online or consider a membership if you’ll be visiting often. Memberships include unlimited visits throughout the 2024 season, admission to all special event days, bring a friend ticket, souvenir WWC Cup, discounts at food and retail shops and more! Visit wildwestcity.com.
