Summer getaways are some of the most memorable experiences with our families, but you don’t have to go away for a week to create lasting memories. Day trips can be just as memorable and have the advantage of less planning and packing. We live in an area with many great places
to visit within a 2–3-hour drive. If you need some ideas for day trips this spring and summer, here are a few of our favorites:
1. National Baseball Hall of Fame
Cooperstown, NY • baseballhall.org
The Baseball Hall of Fame is a bucket list destination for any baseball-loving kid or adult. The museum preserves the history of baseball and celebrates the current-day game.
2. Bronx Zoo
Bronx, NY • bronxzoo.com
The 265 acre Bronx Zoo is one of the most notable zoos in the country. Visit the animals, ride the monorail, take a spin on the Bug Carousel, then explore the Children’s Zoo and Nature Trek.
3. USS Slater
Albany, NY • ussslater.org
The USS Slater is the only remaining World War II Destroyer Escort afloat in the U.S. and is now a museum. The Slater will bring history to life for your family on a tour.
4. LEGOLAND
New York, Goshen, NY • legoland.com/new-york
This LEGO-themed amusement park is an immersive experience for any LEGO-obsessed kid. There are rides, attractions, meet and greets with LEGO characters, and building opportunities.
5. The Wild Center (pictured above)
Tupper Lake, NY • wildcenter.org
The Wild Center highlights the beauty of the Adirondacks while incorporating activities throughout its vast outdoor activity area. A highlight is the Wild Walk, which allows you to walk along the treetops.
6. June Farms
West Sand Lake, NY • junefarms.com
June Farms is a beautiful farm that is home to Scottish Highland cows, horses, and many other animals. The farm is open for daily walks and hosts events, including family nights and dog park nights.
7. Eric Carle Museum
Amherst, MA • carlemuseum.org
Children’s literature legend, Eric Carle, made western Massachusetts his home and founded the Eric Carle Museum, which is devoted to showcasing children’s picture books and illustrations. The museum hosts special events where you can meet the Very Hungry Caterpillar himself!
8. Howe Caverns
Howes Cave, NY • howecaverns.com
The underground cave tour at Howe Caverns is a must-do for kids growing up in the Capital Region. During the walking tour of the cave, you can see rock formations that are millions of years old and take a boat ride.
9. Fort Ticonderoga
Ticonderoga, NY • fortticonderoga.org
Fort Ticonderoga gained significance during the Revolutionary War and preserves the history of the fort well. In addition to touring the fort, there is a scavenger hunt for kids, a beautiful formal garden, and trails to walk.
10. Schuyler Mansion
Albany, NY • parks.ny.gov/historic-sites/schuylermansion
If you have kids who love Hamilton, take them to the Schuyler Mansion for some Hamilton history. This mansion was home to the Schuyler sisters and where Alexander Hamilton married Eliza Schuyler.
