Luxurious amenities: The resort offers a wide range of luxurious amenities, including a seawater spa, outdoor pools, and private beach access. In summer, families can go zip lining, boating and hiking here. White Post Farms, Melville, N.Y.: Here is a truly kid-friendly spot. Governors Island is open every Saturday, Sunday and on Holiday Mondays. Families can enjoy more than 50 rides, attractions, and games, including a . Lake Placid is one of those family weekend getaways thatprovides an opportunity for visitors to catch their breath with hiking trails, rock climbing, fishing, and paddle boating. Rent a board and wetsuit at Unsound Surf and catch some waves. Make your first stop in Norwalk the interactive Stepping Stones Museum for Children (steppingstonesmuseum.org) for kids 10 and under. 13 COMMENTS Day Trips 25 Upstate N.Y. Day Trips That Will Make Your Weekend New York City is a star and you should try to see as much of it as you can, but don't count out all of the fun day trips in upstate N.Y. Recommended Hotel: Resorts World Catskills. This grand estate gives visitors a glimpse of all the Hudson Valley offers. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. Thanks for subscribing! Escape the hustle bustle of your city life with a fabulous beach retreat on Long Island. Don't forget to visit during the holidays, as both Easter Bunny Tours and the North Pole Express are available for families. Delaware Water Gap. Hope Lake blends family fun with deluxe accommodations, making it one of the most irresistible New York vacations for families. If you want some action, the resort has on-site water sports as well. Seafood options abound, naturally, and you'd be remiss not to have at least one meal at Gosman'sit'sessentiallyan unwritten requirement. Grab a bite at Crab & Seafood Shack(crabandseafoodshack.com)before finishing up the day. It's designed for up-close encounters, where animals come right up to your car, and kids also get a lesson on conservation. Plus, it comes with a spa bath that adults and kids will love. Family-Friendly Bed and Breakfasts Near New York City for a Cozy Weekend Getaway. Howe High Adventure. Rochester 8. Pennings Orchard, Warwick, N.Y.: Seasonal fun includes pick-your-own fruits, but visit at other times of the year for the beer garden, ice cream stand and a myriad of special events. STAY:Located in the original B&O headquarters, the Monaco Baltimore has large rooms and an extremelypet-friendly policy. Grab a bite of some kid-friendly dishes (think mac n' cheese and chicken fingers) at Bullard Tavern Cafeteria. Mitsuwa Japanese Market, Edgewater, N.J.: Not your average day trip, visitingMitsuwa is shorter and cheaper than a flight to Japanyet, you'll feel like you're there. View Details Visit Website. What Is The Currency In The Bahamas? Although Point Judith doesn't welcome visitors inside, families are able to head to the grounds and take scenic photos off the coast. Whats more, it has a kids club, on-site water sports, a beach and a ski facility. We already have this email. 10. FOLLOW US FOR ACTIVITY PICKS, DEALS, AND GIVEAWAYS. With 2 separate bedrooms and a living room, it gives moms and dads a little privacy on their vacation. Its indoor waterpark our oasis amid urban hustle. There's a lot to love about summer vacationthe gorgeous weather, the carefree feeling and of course, the tasty treats that come with the season. 3. Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? A mansion tour isn't at the top of most children's must-do lists, but this isn't just another rich family's house: Among other novelties, you take both an antique train and a ferry to get here. At the B&O Railroad Museum,about a mile due west, kids (andmaybe their parents) will learn that Baltimore is where the first commercial mile of railroad track in the U.S. was laid; theyll also get to explore it via a 20-minute ride on an actual train, theMile One Express. When hunger strikes, choose from the variety of dining options Peddlers Village offers. Parks, playgrounds, zoos, and interactive museums like the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum provide entertainment and educational opportunities for children, making it a city that can accommodate family needs. Youll return to the city refreshed and ready to tackle a new week. There are plenty of outdoor activities for kids in New York Citymany you'll even love doing as a family! Fernwood Resort, Poconos, Pa.: The Poconos have long been a favorite trip from the city, but you turned us on to Fernwood, a beautiful villa with bumper boats, hiking, swimming, kayaks and 440 acres. Mystic, Connecticut with Kids: Top Things to Do on a Weekend Getaway. Whatever the season, whatever your interests and whatever your budget, there's an NYC family getaway for you. A day trip in Upstate New York can lead to all kinds of adventures. The Energy Lab is one of the venue's must-see science-themed offerings. The outdoor museum recreates an early 19th-century town with authentic shops like blacksmiths and bakeries, complete with costumed thespianser, interpretersglowing fires and baking bread. New York City Live Trip Report. When you're not busy cuddled up with our favorite family movies on Netflixand our list of the best kids movies (come onit's time to head outside! 19. Buffalo is a vibrant city teeming with family-friendly places to go and attractions. Long Beach Island, N.J.: LBI is known for having great sand and beaches, and lots of families hangin' around. No list of the best fun things to do in New York with kids is complete without a visit to Niagara Falls. Visiting Belmont Park with Kids: A Guide to the Best Things To Do. Gurneys Montauk is an excellent choice for families aching for a relaxing beach escape. Big things are happening at this destination-worthy attraction upstate! Afterward, choose from a varied selection of its epic IMAX films to enjoy. Cape May, N.J.: Not only are there gorgeous beaches, but there's a light house, old Victorian homes, nice shopping and dinning, too. For surfers, make sure to visit Ditch Plains Beach. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon! The park is in a majestic setting, with a large play field, shaded picnic area, swimming (in the pool and the lake), fishing, a zoo and hiking, biking and cross-country ski trails. If you're looking for an amusement park environment, Sesame Place is certainly the way to go. On top of it all, kid-friendly accommodations in NYC are easy to find so your trip is sure to be a great one. Whatever the season, whatever your interests and whatever your budget, there's an NYC family getaway for you. Here are the top 11 family vacations in New York. Kids smell foxes, touch marine animals and look through telescopes as they explore. If you have a hankering for fresh produce and want to spend some time outdoors with the kiddos, check out the local farms in your area for PYO hours. This Victorian-style castle-resort-and-spa, set on some 40,000 acres within New York's forested Shawangunk Mountains, has held staying power for more . From historic towns and fun on the beach to all-inclusive family resorts and the great outdoors, youll make lasting memories when you take the crew out for a full weekend away. Come nighttime, watch movies under the stars at Shankweiler's Drive-In Theatre. When your skin has saturated and reached a prune-like consistency, head to one of the many play structures (one is even fire-truck themed.) At the Whiteface Lodge, youll enjoy a bevy of luxuries and activities suitable for the entire family. Luckily for kids, the towns also home to theMystic Aquarium, home to thousands of species of marine animals (including the largest outdoor beluga whale exhibit in the country). Mohonk Mountain House, New Paltz, New York. This fair is your best bet for a trip back in time without the dangers of riding in Doc's DeLorean. 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. Although millennials continue to flock tothis Long Island destination, there are plenty of reasons for families to take notice, too. Sesame Place, Langhorne, Pa.: Sesame Place is about 90 minutes south of NYC. The childrens ecstatic cheers from those thrilling water slides are now our forever echoes of happiness. 6. The South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center(sofo.org)immerses kids in each exhibit by engaging all five senses. Enjoy the gorgeous views by hiking up the Hudson Highlands. 22 Best Day Trips from NYC with Kids: Home Day Adventures - Time Out Plus, the boardwalk is perfect for a few family photos! With miles of white sand beaches, Long Island makes a quaint and relaxing escape for families. One thing's for certain, no trip to the sweet destination is complete without an equally sweet scoop of ice cream from Nina's! When its nice and warm, familiescan enjoy sweet activitiessuch ashorseback riding, hiking on local trails, rounds of tennis and other greatoffers like free scenic tours (via a ski lift!) Plus,with the Safari Experienceyou can see 1,200 animals all from the comfort of your car. Whale Watch Dolphin Fleet,in Provincetown, offers great family excursions. No matter the season, this resort is packed with family fun. Also, to save money on food, enjoy some cheap meals that are offered by street vendors, especially those with Vendy Awards posted. For lunch, stop by the The Storm King Caf,which uses locally grown ingredients inits salads, soups and sandwiches. Ausable Chasm. Rochester is an exceptional urban destination for families with younger kids. Naval Academy. So: Check the weather, pack a picnic and make plans to visit mother nature withthe fam. 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). There's plenty of seafood options for older members of the brood, but the youngsters might prefer dinneratMango's Wood-Fired Pizza Co. STAY:The lovely Whalers Inn is situated near all the towns attractions and offers guests a$15 daily food credit to the hotel's restaurant. Family weekend getaways 1. With its charming seaport and renowned aquarium, Mystic, CT offers year-round family fun. Our nations history and Gothic architecture await at the prestigious United States Military Academy (all visitors over 16 must present ID). All you need is a Metro-North ticket for an exciting day trip with the kids. Spring Day Trips in New York State 16. Here's a complete list of all the animals you can encounter. Take one of these day trips from NYC with the kids. Kid-friendly day trips in Upstate New York: 9 places - newyorkupstate Now completely renovated, there is something for every kid, with exhibits and shows on dinosaurs, gems and rocks, ocean life, nature's forces (volcanoes, hurricanes, etc. Seven full-service restaurants allow families to pick and choose selections that work for them (American classics, cafe brunches and more options are available). Located in the heart of New York Harbor, one of our go-tofamily attractionsoffers scenic views, a country environment and a plethora of outdoor activities for kids and adults (like one of the coolest kids' playgrounds NYCwith mighty impressive slides). Our favorites include the Niagara Gorge Discovery Center, Aquarium of Niagara and Cave of the Winds. August is the store's summer festival, with dancing, food and games. There are also tons of birds and a cute farm nearby. New Yorks lovely Hudson Valley is a year-round destination for family-friendly fun. Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock/Lissandra Melo, where kidscan make the most out ofthe warm weather, Photograph courtesy Crystal Springs & Mountain Creek Resorts, PHOTOGRAPH: Stefan Ugljevarevic / Shutterstock.com, National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Indulge your seafood cravings at Crab & Seafood Shack, where kids 12 and under have their own menu with the typical fare: hot dogs, chicken fingers and more. If you've exhausted all of the PYO fruit options, turn your attention toward beautiful blooms! 2900 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, NY, 10458. 25. This beachy destination, located on the southern tip of New Jersey, is full of great spots for families and curious kids. You can even hop aboard a trolley to get there. We've rounded up great locales in New York (and beyond) for sunflower picking that deserve your attention. Jersey City boasts some amazing family-friendly entertainment that can be tackled while keeping the Manhattan skyline within view. These day trips for kids include epic options like sailing, hiking, biking and even foraging in the woods. Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Catskill, NYVisit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. From interactive museums like the American Museum of Natural History and the Childrens Museum of Manhattan to Broadway shows, boat rides, and street performances, there are numerous opportunities for children to have a memorable and enjoyable time in NYC. Enjoy beaches, restaurants, and fishing at this East End treasure. Legoland New York opens its doors this season Friday, March 31. At Family in New York, we offer more than 35 private New York City tours, including iconic New York Sightseeing Tours; Tours of Brooklyn, Bronx and Queens; New York Layover Tours; Food Tours; Night Tours and Day Trips to regional destinations. Not to mention, it comes with a sofa that can be converted into an extra bed. Family Flashlight Tour: A two-hour tour with flashlights and headlamps offered on Sunday evenings (for ages 5 and older): $45; reservations required. We independently evaluate all recommended services and products. Lexington Market offers something for everyone when lunchtime strikes, while Broadway Market is the latestsmorgasbord, which recently opened in a market that dates back to 1786. Home to eleven iconic lakes, New Yorks Finger Lakes region is the perfect escape for swimming, paddleboarding, chasing waterfalls, and pretty much every kid-friendly activity you can imagine. Are the rooms spacious? There's also regular fishing, golfing and playgrounds. Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. The very kid-friendly place is 90 minutes from New York, so you'll be pulling up to the sprawling grounds in no time. On your private New York tours with us, it will be just you and whoever comes to New York with you. Hampton Inn & Suites Buffalo Downtown is an excellent accommodation option for families. Great for fruit and pumpkin picking, the farms have a lot more to offer, too: wine tasting for the parents (which could make the trip through the corn maze a little more bearable), live music, hayride tours, baby farm animals, horse corrals, pony rides, and some unique activities like the dino-dig and gemstone mining. 718-817-8700. The 14 Very Best Day Trips You Can Possibly Take In New York With a plethora of unforgettable adventures hiding in plain sight, sometimes we need to be pointed in the right direction when it comes to figuring out what trips to take in the Empire State. Cooperstown 5. Fishing, boat rides and other standard beach fare are there too, plus mini-golf, a water park, and hiking/biking trails. We already have this email. 13 Most EPIC New York Day Trips | 2023 Guide - The Broke Backpacker 25 Best Things to Do in The Adirondacks Top Activities & Places to Go! 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. After breakfast the next morning at Kites, the resort's restaurant, kids will no doubt want more pool time. ), you'll love exploring the coolestfamily attractionsand the other amazing outdoor activities this amazing city has to offer. Fireside hot chocolates warmed us, as the kids ventured on leaf-strewn trails. Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of every property. A Quick Guide! 22. This Japanese super store is much more than just a grocery. and mountainside ATV tours. Options abound at Union Marketwhere even the pickiest of eaters can find something to satisfy their taste buds. Offering family programs and events, a spring day trip to Wave Hill is a great way to enjoy a warm, sunny day. Theres plenty for all ages in Annapolis, where the historic downtown is gorgeous (cobblestone streets) and features a mix oftraditional bed and breakfasts, shopping, and beautiful landmarks like the U.S. The older set will enjoy the twisting, turning dry and wet rollercoasters while little ones enjoy Peanuts-themed rides. Children will love getting their hands wet inthe touch tank and taking a look at the sharks (those who are brave enough can even cage dive with them)! Crowded during peak seasons: This may result in longer wait times and a less peaceful atmosphere, particularly around shared facilities like the pools and spa. In the evening, head to The Glenwood for burgers, wraps or pizza, then hit the Warwick Drive-In for a first-run double feature. Sleepy Hollow, NY Distance from NYC: 32 miles ~ via I-87 Yep, the town of Sleepy Hollow is real, and it makes for a perfect day trip if you're into all things spooky! Learn more. Sometimes the family needs a change of scenery though. Now that's what we call a daycation. Cooperstown, NY(607) 322-4046Visit WebsiteSocial MediaOpen in Google Maps. What's sweeter than peach picking near NYC? When the warm weather hits, grab the whole family andenjoy the best strawberry picking in New York. Meanwhile, winter offers ample opportunities to snowboard and ski. 26./27. Thanks to the museums artifacts collection, Hall of Plaques and the interactive Sandlotsection,youngsters will no doubt leave knowing more about the sport and its players than when they arrived. To conclude, for the best family vacations in New York, Gurneys Montauk Resort & Seawater Spa shines the brightest. They dont call Gurneys Montauk one of the best and most luxurious family resorts in New York state for nothing. For the little locomotive fans in your life, hop aboard theNew Hope & Ivyland Railroadfor a glimpse at the bucolic scenery. Then, after a busy day in Buffalo, re-group in a spacious hotel room with a couple of queen beds. 4. Experience LEGOLAND 's signature rides or make a splash at Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark the state's largest indoor waterpark. Maritime lore lovers wont want to miss the hour-long Urban Pirates Family Adventure,a swashbuckler-themed cruise in Baltimore Inner Harbor, where they can dress up like pirates, learn sea chanteys, and spray water cannons. These questions are essential whenever I rate the propertys family accommodations. The verdant Berkshires and neighboring Pioneer Valley in western Massachusetts are appealingly sleepy, but if youve got a gang of culture vultures, youll find its brimming with artistic gems, too. If the family cant choose between thrilling amusement rides and swimming pools on a hot summer day, then an itinerary centered onDorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom(dorneypark.com)will satisfy all. Spring Day Trips from NYC Metro Area for Families - Mommy Poppins Ithacas Purity Ice Cream is a no-brainer: it operates out of an ice cream shop that opened back in 1936, meaning youll get old-school scoops made with milk from upstate farms. Once you're there, tour guides will take your crew through two dozen wood-and-stoneclad rooms. Atlantus or venture out into the waters on a tourwith Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center(capemaywhalewatch.com). Best for Sports Fans: Bayside Inn & Marina Best Winter Getaway: The Whiteface Lodge Best City Hotel: The Peninsula New York Best Family Vacations in New York State Best Overall : The Lake House on Canandaigua Buy on Tripadvisor.com Why We Chose It Not only does it feature an indoor water park, but it also has an adventure center and a spa. I consider these factors when rating the propertys safety and security. New York City is generally considered a child-friendly city, with a variety of attractions and amenities catering to families. And for more things to do during summer, check out our Summer Fun Guide or Indoor Guide for those rainy days. Day Trip to Olana State Historic Site to See Frederic Church's Living Masterpiece. Limited dining options: Although it offers on-site dining options, the choices are limited compared to larger resorts or urban locations. Venture to the historicPeddler's Villagefor shopping and dining. From classic kid-friendly rides to roller coasters, the amusement park has numerous diversions to keep everyone entertained for a few hours. Refuel at Turkuaz Grill(turkuazgrillriverhead.com), a spot full of homey vibes, delicious Mediterranean fare and outdoor picnic tables. I rate these properties based on the following criteria: New York can be a good destination for a family trip, offering a wide range of attractions and activities suitable for different age groups. If the family cant choose between thrilling amusement rides and swimming pools to beat the heat, then an itinerary centered on Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom will satisfy everyone. Plus, we hear it is super clean. These vineyards in the North Fork and Hamptons delight kids and adults alike. Whether youre traveling with teens or toddlers, youll surely have a blast in NYC. The contemporary art scene is alive and well too thanks to the Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art,a world-class museum in North Adams inhabiting a cluster of converted, 19th-century brick factory buildings. So are the whales just beyond them, who arrive from warmer climes to feed in the areas teeming waters from April through the end of October. Hours: Hours by reservation only. Hours of awe-worthy entertainment await at the Liberty Science Center (lsc.org) where curious kids will have a blast making their way through thevarious exhibitions. July and August are the perfect time to head into the fields togather some fresh produce. Visit Governors Island today and have yourself the best day trip experience here in New York. Here they are, the Top 30 Reader-Suggested Day Trips from New York City. The Buffalo Museum of Science will also wow everyone with a collection of Egyptian mummies and mastodon skeletons. High costs: The luxurious amenities and prime location come with a price tag, making it a less affordable option for some families. Theres also a complimentary breakfast! If youre thinking about planning a family vacation to New York state, youre in for a treat. Not only will you come home equipped with delicious fruits (and plenty of supplies if you decide to bake) but you'll also have a great day outdoors with loved ones. Consider one of these quaint inns for your next getaway. Bring surfboards and boogie boards to the well-known Scarborough State Beach (note that these waves are probably more suitable for the older kids in your clan) and venture to the less intense Roger Wheeler State Beach with tiny tots who will gravitate toward the playground and the calmer waters. Built in the early 20th century by the then-famous actor and Sherlock Holmes portrayer William Gillette, the mansion is like a mystery-movie tableau where ghosts and evildoers might lurk at any turn. Thereare amazing family-friendly hikes close toNYCin fact,the Bronx River Greenway and Inwood Hill Parkare right in the middle of the city! Theocean-obsessed will come closer than ever to majestic marine life such as stingrays, a giant sea turtle, and blacktip reef sharks. Farm Stays near NYC: Enjoy a Farm-Themed Family Vacation. Rustic charm: The lodges design and architecture provide a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for families looking for a quaint and intimate vacation experience. Are the room rates reasonable? ), skyscrapers, communications, animals/survival of the fittest, energy and interactive elements called "Live Science." Whether you want to enjoy the great outdoors with a hike or bike ride, relax at a regional resort, run . (, Photograph: Courtesy The Land of Makebelieve, Photograph: Courtesy Shutterstock/Romrodphoto. STAY:Situated right on the Rail Trail, Midway Motelhas a secluded feel andhard-to-beat rates (often below $100 per room). Dine on the catch of the day while kids sample fish filet sandwiches. Back in Greenport, chow down at Claudio's (claudios.com), a favorite since 1870. Point Pleasant Beach, N.J.: Complete with the aquarium, skee ball, rides and of course, the beach. Dine on the freshest sushi and sashimi and other typical dishes in Restaurant Row, head over to the adjacent stores for household items, books, a beauty parlor and gorgeous views of the Manhattan skyline. Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? Awaiting the maritime-obsessed is thetremendousMystic Seaport, a 19-acre living history attraction where families can explore a re-created 19th-century village filled with working shops (an oyster house, a ship carver), an authentic whaling ship, and more. This sprawling theme park offers tons of fun for young thrill seekers. 2. As you approach landfall, keep an eye out for the medieval-style stone structure atop a hillthat's Gillette Castle, and it's just a short hike from the shore (though keep in mind it is not stroller-friendly). Read more about Harbes Family Farm. Like. . From beautiful beaches where the kids can build sandcastles to serene mountain retreats perfect for hiking and bonding, the state has it all. Okay, okaythis is one of those family weekend getaways that's a bit of a haul from NYC (but so worth it). Ellis Island. Looking for a sweet pit-stop? Fun Day Trip Ideas To Take With Kids in NY | FunNewYork.com To save money on accommodations, I suggest that you stay at The Inn at Cooperstown. For a getaway that will sate the offspring yet also allow you a little self-indulgence, Crystal Springs Resort should do the trick. Washington wont let go, consider taking the Cog Railwayuprather than driving. Think of the region as a destination of scenic road trips: Spread across 9,000 square miles, charming towns pop up around each lake, meaning that you can spend a whole weekend hoppingfrom one to the next(tip: if you arrive in time for fall foliage, the drive alone will keep the little ones in awe). (Think petting zoos, freshly-squeezed lemonade and farm tours.) Need a break from the non-stop outdoor escapes in the Catskills? Kamp Kamu, the resorts kiddie program, entertains youngsters with exciting games and activities. New York Tours | New York City | Family in New York Tours That will leave them refreshed for a hike along the Canal Road section of the Appalachian Trail before you head back to the city. Our kids filled their buckets with sand as if hunting for gold. Their 3-bedroom cottage is ideal for large groups and family reunions. Long Island has over 70 tasting rooms and wineries. Families looking for a cultural getaway are free to 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 (stormkingartcenter.org). The stunning museum mounts eclectic shows, one of which is designed especially for kids in a gallery-studio hybrid called Kidspace; children can drop in and make art there free of charge on weekends, and every day of the summer. New York City 9. Stay: Relax at the outdoor pool at the former Sandpiper Inn in Old Saybrook, now an Econo Lodge Inn and Suites. 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). Distance from major attractions: The lodge is located in Lake Placid, which is a bit removed from major cities and attractions in New York. Furthermore, Albany offers easy access to a number of family vacations near New York. Does your idea of the best family vacations in New York include relaxation and easygoing family trips? New York City Live Trip Report - New York City Forum Itinerary: Bahamas Travel Guide for a Memorable Trip, Do I Need Shots Before Traveling to Aruba? New Yorkers are blessed with a huge variety of destinations for family-friendly weekend getaways and day trips in the tristate area. All Rights Reserved. Take a trip to your local farm or orchard for the best cherry picking NY has to offer. STAY:TheHoliday Inn Express & Suitesis close to downtown and sits at a little over $100 per night. Wildwood, N.J.: Head to the end of the Garden State Parkway, where street lights start to appear and you'll find Wildwood. In addition to strolling along its white sand beaches,families can explore the remains of the U.S.S. 11. Seven indoor and outdoor pools allow for splash time no matter the weather. The quaint Sip 'n Soda(sipnsoda.com)has typical diner fare, but their famous ice cream sodas are a must. Be warned: The beach does have a $15 fee per person for non-pass holders. Playland Amusement Park, Rye, N.Y.: A Mommy Poppins' favorite, a reader favorite and an overall metro parent favorite, Playand is the go-to park for NYC families and has beenremarkablysince 1928.