Spring Flings

Trade Winds Island Resorts
Tampa, Florida
A quick flight from New York City to the Tampa Airport will transport families to a sunny escape at the Trade Winds Island Resorts on St. Pete’s Beach. Families can choose from the larger Island Grand Resort or the quieter Sandpiper Resort, though both share the same amenities and are within walking distance. Kids will love floating on a raft while watching “dive in” movies, careening down the three-story water slide or “parleying” with the resort’s resident pirate. Families can also plan excursions like dolphin-watching in the Gulf of Mexico, a trip to the Clearwater Marine Aquarium (where they can see Winter, the famous dolphin with a prosthetic tail who is the subject of the upcoming movie “Dolphin Tale”) or a visit to Busch Gardens theme park. Finally, eco-minded families will love that both resorts hold Florida’s Green Lodging Certification in recognition of their efforts to protect the area’s natural resources, reduce waste and minimize pollution. (tradewindsresort.com)

The Sagamore Resort
Lake George, New York
The beautiful Sagamore Resort on Lake George has been playing host to families for over a hundred years. Only four hours away from New York City by car or train, the Sagamore offers a convenient shuttle service from the train station. Once there, kids will have a blast at the resort’s kids’ camp and exploring the newly renovated recreation center (which features Nintendo Wii stations, an internet café and a brand new miniature golf course) or showing off their skills at the basketball, tennis and volleyball courts and horse shoe pit. Meanwhile, parents can indulge in a luxurious spa treatment or wine tasting, or head out for a round of golf at the nearby Donald Ross championship course. Of course, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had for the whole family, including kayaking, fishing charters, private boat rentals, swimming in an outdoor pool and hiking in the Adirondacks. (thesagamore.com)

The Verandah Resort and Spa
Antigua
For the family who just can’t get enough of the surf, sun and sand, Antigua is the place to go—an island that boasts a different beach for every day of the year—yes, there are 365! The island’s Verandah Resort and Spa is a great fit for families, as it’s all-inclusive, eco-friendly and boasts 30 beachfront acres of pristine sand and ocean views. During the day, guests can kayak, snorkel, windsurf and swim at the Verandah’s two reef-sheltered beaches, or leave the resort for a jeep tour of the nearby rainforest, a round of golf, or shopping in the historic city of St. Johns. When the sun sets, families dine at one of the Verandah’s three restaurants and take in a movie at the mini cinema. Parents will also love the luxurious spa, salon and fitness center and the resort’s commitment to green values. (theverandah.com)

Boston
Massachusetts
Boston is a perfect destination for adventure-seeking families, especially in the summertime. Known as “America’s Walking City,” Boston combines historic, New England charm with gorgeous harbor views, plenty of family friendly attractions and tons of green space for kids to play. From June 30th to July 4th, families can take in the annual Fourth of July festival Harborfest, which is especially family-friendly on the 30th (Children’s Day), when kids can enjoy whale-watching cruises or sail on the Liberty Clipper, a 125-foot historic replica of an 18th century clipper ship. Other must-sees in Boston this summer include a visit to the New England Aquarium’s new exhibit “Sharks And Rays: Touch,” a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, a cruise around Boston Harbor, a visit to the expansive Museum of Science, and stroll along Newbury Street to check out the famous shops. (bostonusa.com)