Whether your dream long weekend trip with kids involves exploring the Adirondack wilderness, splashing down a waterslide or relaxing with calm lake views, there are many amazing places to choose from near New York City. Visit the historic estates in the attractions of Hudson Valley, stay on a working farm in upstate New York, hike in the Catskill Mountains, sunbathe on the beaches of Long Island, or check into a full service resort on the banks of Lake George.
Do a digital detox at the Hull-O-Farms - 2 hours 45 minutes from NYC
Take away their PlayStations, iPads and cell phones and take the kids to the 300-acre Hull-O-Farms on a vacation that will bring them closer to the real world of hard work and that will help you reconnect as a family. They will get to play with the puppies, kittens, baby chicks, tiny goats, and fluffy rabbits. They can climb a pile of hay, get lost in a corm maze, or stumble through the pumpkin patch.
Hull-O Farms are true working farms in the Northern Catskill Mountains in upstate New York that offer a family vacation of a very different kind. You are free to get involved in all daily farm chores, or you can just relax on the porch of one of three rental cottages spread around the spacious, lovely farm. Each cottage is a complete home with a private bathroom, kitchen, living room, and all modern amenities, decorated in the charming farm cottage style. If the kids are cooperating, you can reward them with a trip to the Zoom Flume Water Park just down the road or to the nearby 156-feet deep prehistoric Howe Caverns.
10 Cochrane Rd, Durham, NY 12422, 518-239-6950
Relax with breathtaking views of Mirror Lake at Golden Arrow - 5 hours 15 minutes from NYC
Located on the sandy shore of Mirror Lake just a few minutes from the Lake Placid gourmet restaurants and exclusive shopping and surrounded by the lush wilderness of the Adirondack Mountains, Golden Arrow is a refuge from daily stress. It seamlessly combines luxury pampering and respect for the surrounding natural wonders. The resort’s 165 spacious, luxuriously appointed suites and rooms offer breathtaking views of Mirror Lake and forested mountain slopes.
All rooms have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, Nintendo games consoles, and coffeemakers. Many also feature private patios and balconies. Suites and some rooms also have fireplaces, kitchenettes, and whirlpool tubs. Everything guests can possibly need is available right in the hotel: an indoor pool, high end boutiques, a health club, shops, snacks, and the gourmet seafood restaurant Generations. And when the kids fall asleep, mom and dad can enjoy a cocktail lounge and Roomers Nightclub.
2559 Main St, Lake Placid, NY 12946, 844-898-0924
Experience the romance of Hope Lake Lodge - 3 hours 30 minutes from NYC
Perched on top of the hill on Hope Lake in the Virgil Valley, Hope Lake Lodge is a luxurious hotel located in the town of Cortland in the scenic Finger Lakes Region of Central New York. The grand, imposing timber-framed structure has 106 rustic, beautifully decorated suites with two bedrooms and 1-3 bathrooms, fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, dining rooms, cable TV, Wi-Fi and pullout sofas.
They can sleep up to 10 people. Some suites have beautiful views of the surrounding lakes and mountains from private balconies. The lodge-style resort hotel is a delight for the kids with its indoor water park and an outdoor pool in season. For the adults, there is a soothing spa, a hot tub, a fitness center, and several options for great dining and cocktails.
2177 Clute Rd, Cortland, NY 13045, 607-218-8714
Have fun on the water at Ampersand Bay Resort - 5 hours 25 minutes from NYC
As you drive down the forested slopes of the scenic Adirondack Mountains, you will suddenly arrive at the shimmering waters of Saranac Lake. With old trees reflected in the clear water, it is an idyllic scene of peace and tranquility, so close to several big cities and so far away from the stress and noise. Ampersand Bay Resort is spread on 28 acres on Lower Saranac Lake, right on the sandy shores, and it is perfect for swimming, fishing, canoeing, or lounging in the shade. Accommodation ranges from superbly decorated wood and stone luxury suites, luxury camping in the charming rustic cottages, or private modern cabins.
All accommodations offer full kitchens, private bathrooms, two or three spacious bedrooms, and one to three bathrooms. Some have private porches or balconies, Adirondack chairs, picnic tables, dining tables, rainfall showerheads, and whirlpool tubs. Wi-Fi is free in the communal areas. Nightly campfires, free use of the kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats are available for all guests. The lake is full of bass, bullhead, and pike for avid fishermen.
31 Bayside Dr, Saranac Lake, NY 12983, 518-891-3001
Sign up for outdoor adventures at Rocking Horse Ranch Resort - 1 hour 50 minutes from NYC
Taking kids on a vacation always fills parents with the worry about how to keep them occupied and entertained. Let the experts take over by bringing them to the all-inclusive, endless-fun Rocking Horse Ranch Resort. Set in the Hudson Valley on a 500-acre property with a private lake and beautiful verdant nature, the resort has fun activities for all ages and interests.
There is unlimited horseback riding, mountain tubing, kayaking, paddle boats, banana boats and fishing on the lake. Kids can have fun in the outdoor heated pools with water slides and at Big Splash indoor waterpark with a 250-ft long indoor flume. Adventurous kids can test their courage and strength on bungee jump and rock climbing walls. Other fun family activities at the resort include mini golf, basketball, tennis, a kids’ fun barn and Lucky Horseshoe Arcade with mini bowl. Families are accommodated in two cozy lodges featuring rooms that can accommodate groups of all sizes. Three delicious, all-you-can-eat meals are included in the cost of your stay.
600 US-44, Highland, NY 12528, 845-691-2927
Take the kids to Marine Village Resort
Located on the sandy banks of Lake George in the heart of the scenic Adirondack Mountains, Marine Village Resort is the perfect place for the entire family. Comfortable, spacious rooms with fridges, TVs, microwaves, toaster ovens, free Wi-Fi, and wonderful views of the pool or the lake are perfect if you travel with the kids and need a bit of home away from home.
Hanging out by the large pool surrounded by the spacious terrace with lounge chairs and umbrellas is just one option for a relaxed day. You can try boating or paddling on the lake and take a short walk to the House of Frankenstein Wax Museum or along the lovely shady trails through the Adirondacks, which are great for the more active family members. The resort’s own restaurant Morgan’s can take care of your hunger, and the kids eat for free.
370 Canada St, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-5478
Have fun by the lake at Blue Lagoon Resort
About half way between New York City and Montreal, Canada, Lake George has been a popular tourist destination for more than a century. People love its clear, deep water surrounded by the unspoiled forests of the beautiful Adirondacks. Blue Lagoon Resort is snuggled on the very edge of the lake on about 200 feet of sandy shore with cottages and a motel, which are so close to the water that everyone can have a morning coffee on the beach in their Adirondack chair lined up in front of the room.
All units have two to three rooms and are clean, simple, and comfortable with private bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens. Cottages have nice, spacious living rooms. There is a lovely kids’ playground for the small ones and canoes and kayaks for the bigger kids and their parents. You can bring your own boat and dock it right in front of your cottage, or you can rent one and take your family on a nice, scenic ride across the lake.
3670 Lake Shore Dr, Lake George, NY 12845, 518-668-4867
Enjoy unique activities at The Whiteface Lodge
In the heart of the six-million-acre magnificent Adirondack Park and just a short drive from Lake Placid, The Whiteface Lodge is a beautiful hotel nestled among the stately aspens and firs. Upon walking inside, you’ll feel as though you have stepped back in time with the lodge’s soaring high wood-beamed ceilings, cozy sitting rooms with cast-iron fireplaces, and plush carpets strewn around. It is a mountain sanctuary at its best.
All suites, from studio Junior Suites to the four-bedroom palatial Presidential Suite, are beautifully decorated in the signature Adirondack style with sturdy wooden furniture that is often handcrafted. Bathrooms are opulent and feature jetted tubs. Suites have flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, kitchens, fireplaces, and much more. The resort’s guests can enjoy a movie theater, serene spa, fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, steam room, canoeing, bowling, and ice-skating. Kanu restaurant and lounge are there for a gourmet meal or some excellent cocktails.
7 Whiteface Inn Ln, Lake Placid, NY 12946, 518-523-0500
Treat the family to a vacation at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is located in the middle of New York’s Finger Lakes Wine Country on the shoreline of the scenic Seneca Lake.
This AAA Four Diamond, award-winning hotel provides spacious deluxe rooms and suites for guests, as well as excellent service and a variety of amenities. Set in the middle of Watkins Glen, Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel is conveniently situated near an array of things to do, such as outdoor adventures in Watkins Glen State park, watersports, historic sights, distilleries, craft breweries, wineries, and more. The landscaped grounds also feature a firepit and other extra touches.
16 N Franklin St, Watkins Glen, NY 14891, 607-535-6116
Get an adrenaline rush at The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark in Monticello, New York is a unique resort designed for all ages in the Catskills. Featuring one of the country’s most state-of-the-art and modern indoor waterparks, the resort offers a different kind of luxury lodge experience with more than 300 well designed guest suites and fun for the entire family in the mountains. Guests can relax down the lazy river, catch a wave overlooking the Catskill Mountains, get an adrenaline rush on slides, and more. The Kartrite Resort also provides a variety of daily activities, outdoor and indoor adventures, and dining options on property.
555 Resorts World Dr, Monticello, NY 12701, 844-527-8748
Relax while the kids enjoy fun activities at Wolff's Maple Breeze Resort
Wolff's Maple Breeze Resort is not for the lazy. Located on 300 acres in the Catskill mountains with three private lakes stocked with fish, a king size pool, a driving range, a volleyball court, and shady trails through the wild Catskills, it is the ultimate summer fun location, where there is something going on all the time and there is not one single boring moment.
Sunbathe on the patio, sing karaoke, play bingo by the pool, or try your hand at handball, ping pong, badminton, basketball, shuffleboard, or horseshoes. Kids have their own fun specially organized for them. All meals are included and are served in the resort’s large, family-style dining room. And when you are totally exhausted, rest in your spacious, clean, cozy room with nice décor, air conditioning, cable TV, and refrigerator.
360 Cauterskill Rd, Catskill, NY 12414, 518-943-3648
Enjoy a laid back stay at Ocean Resort Inn
If you care to count them, there are exactly 65 steps from your pleasant ocean view room at the Ocean Resort Inn to the beach. This cozy Montauk waterfront resort is only a short walk away from downtown and all the great seafood restaurants and shops, and it is perfectly located to serve as your base for exploring the surrounding beaches, wineries, or boat tours. All rooms are pleasantly decorated and have private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, cable TVs, microwaves, fridges, and whirlpool tubs.
Right in front of the inn is a nice courtyard overlooking the ocean, where you can relax in a hammock, have a cup of coffee in a porch swing, or work on your tan in a lounger while watching the kids playing in the shallows. Bikes are available for the guests when they get the urge to explore.
95 S Emerson Ave, Montauk, NY 11954, 631-668-2300
Create memories at Hotel Mountain Brook
Tannersville is the place to visit when you want to explore the magnificent nature of Northern Catskills and indulge in all this unspoiled area offers: skiing, cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice-fishing, and snowmobiling in the winter or hiking, biking, camping, fishing, swimming, and golfing in the summer. Hotel Mountain Brook is just a short walk from the town center, a lovely brick structure with charming wrap-around rustic porch that is surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and bright flowerbeds in warmer seasons.
Rooms and suites are located in two buildings and are all beautifully decorated in charming rustic décor with all modern amenities, which include TVs, free Wi-Fi, DVD players, private bathrooms, and whirlpool tubs. Some rooms have fireplaces, sitting rooms, porches, and/or balconies. The hotel’s private luxury cabins also have large porches, spacious, comfortable sitting rooms, and oversized whirlpool tubs. Free breakfast is served in a lovely dining room by the fireplace. Guests can also have a relaxing moment on the wraparound porch overlooking the mountain or have a quiet moment with a book in the library.
57 Hill St, Tannersville, NY 12485, 518-589-6740
Admire lake views at Chautauqua Harbor Hotel
Chautauqua Harbor Hotel in Celoron, New York is set on nine acres along the shoreline of scenic Chautauqua Lake. An independently owned and operated resort, guests will find generously sized and well appointed rooms and suites, several of which feature balconies and panoramic views of the lake. The carefully landscaped grounds of the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel offer a wide variety of things to do, such as watersports, the outdoor Carousel Bar that serves microbrews and brick-oven pizzas, a putting green, an expansive patio featuring fire pits, al fresco dining, an outdoor pool, boating and fishing opportunities, lakeside playground, and more.
10 Dunham Ave, Celoron, NY 14720, 716-489-2800
Have fun at the indoor pool at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nanuet
Located just off of Interstate 287, the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nanuet in New York is just minutes away from the Nyack riverside Village, rail links to New York City, and the Palisades Center mall. The hotel itself includes a fitness center and a swimming pool featuring a retractable glass roof. There’s also the Solaris Cafe at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nanuet, a relaxing area that offers complimentary wireless internet, abundant USB ports, and communal tables. The Windsor Grille provides room service and a menu including steak and seafood. Guests also receive a warm cookie upon arrival.
425 East Route 59, Nanuet, NY 10954, 845-623-6000
Relax at 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel
Offering excellent hospitality and luxury accommodations, the 1000 Islands Harbor Hotel in picturesque Clayton is on the shoreline of the St. Lawrence River. This AAA Four Diamond-property features lush, well landscaped ground that delight guests throughout the year with the beautiful shoreline, firepits, al fresco dining at the Riverside Patio, and other opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Other amenities include a swimming pool, a fitness center, the 1000 Islands Bar and the Seaway Grille. The hotel is conveniently located near outdoor recreation, lighthouses, distilleries, craft breweries, wine trails, Boldt Castle, Clayton Opera House, the Antique Boat Museum, and more.
200 Riverside Dr, Clayton, NY 13624, 315-686-1100, Video
Admire fall scenery at High Peaks Resort
Situated in the scenic Adirondack Mountains, the High Peaks Resort in Lake Placid, New York is a particularly popular getaway during the fall season. The property is conveniently located near paddling opportunities on Mirror Lake, with complimentary boats provided by the resort, and shopping on downtown’s Main Street. The High Peaks Resort also features a Spa and Salon on site, offering a day of relaxation or guests can dine at the Dancing Bears on-site restaurant. A pet-friendly property, the resort is a great choice for families visiting Lake Placid who want to bring their furry family members with them.
2384 Saranac Ave, Lake Placid, NY 12946, 518-523-4411
Fill your holiday with fun activities at Villa Roma Resort
The Villa Roma Resort and Conference Center in the mountain area of Callicoon, New York is a scenic property with a wide array of outdoor and indoor amenities. Activities possible at the resort include golfing, rock climbing, bowling, racquetballs, tennis, and much more. There’s also a game room, an arcade, a spa, a children’s pool, an indoor pool, a hot tub, and two outdoor pools. During the winter seasons, resort guests can take advantage of downhill skiing opportunities on four slopes, along with night skiing and snowboarding. Lessons and rentals are offered at the Villa Roma Resort as well.
356 Villa Roma Rd, Callicoon, NY 12723, 845-887-4880
Enjoy the scenic surroundings of The Otesaga Resort Hotel
Families visiting Cooperstown, New York, can immerse themselves in the charm and historic elegance of The Otesaga Resort Hotel. Guests can have a relaxing stay on the shoreline of Otsego Lake or sit in a rocking chair on the hotel’s back veranda and take in the stunning views of the nearby countryside. Guests can sit with a drink on the lakeside deck, take a swim in the heated outdoor pool, or play a round of golf at the Leatherstocking Golf Course. The Otesaga Resort Hotel also offers guests the ability to take a paddle board, canoe, or kayak onto the lake.
60 Lake St, Cooperstown, NY 13326, 607-547-9931
Get away from NYC to the Mohonk Mountain House
Mohonk Mountain House is perhaps the most iconic resort in the Hudson Valley and is a great choice for families looking for a getaway in New York. Originally founded in 1869 by the Smiley Family, this “Victorian castle” resort can be found around ninety miles from bustling New York City. Approximately 40,000 acres of forest surround this National Historic Landmark that overlooks a glacial lake. Mohonk Mountain House features many different amenities, such as more than 80 miles of hiking trails, paddleboarding on the lake, tomahawk throwing, and more. The resort also features an award-winning spa and farm-to-table cuisine.
1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, 855-883-3798
Discover a world of fun at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark
Six Flags Great Escape Lodge & Indoor Waterpark in Queensbury offers plenty of fun for the entire family. The well-furnished, Adirondack-themed guest suites are able to accommodate families both small and large and provide rustic, warm charm. There are also other themed suites available, such as themed bunk beds and suites with child-sized log cabins. At the Indoor Waterpark at Six Flags Great Escape Lodge, guests can discover water features and slides in a treehouse, ride through tunnels and curls on tubes, try their skills at surfing, delight in a thrilling whitewater rafting experience, or simply take a leisurely float.
89 Six Flags Drive, Queensbury, NY 12804, 518-824-6000
