New York's Hudson Valley: A Great Destination for Families

Everyone knows that New York City is a great tourist destination. However, it may not be as well known that the area north of New York City is filled with fun, educational, interesting, and unique diversions for families. New York's Hudson Valley, which traveling north from the city begins in Westchester County and stretches a good seventy miles north up to the beginning of the Catskill Mountains, has such a variety of parks, beautiful scenic locations, historic locales, and great annual events that I will only be able to outline a few of my favorites here.

A great location for a day trip, Bear Mountain has it all. Less than an hour drive from NYC, the drive up along the Hudson will instantly put you in a more pastoral frame of mind. When you get there you can picnic, hike, or fish. They also have a great indoor carousel that is open year round, as well as ice skating, boat rentals, a swimming pool, and a small zoo. Within the zoo are also some historical exhibits. The fees for these attractions are very reasonable. In addition, there are special events held throughout the year.

Just 20 minutes north of the city is Rye Playland. A great spot to hit in the summertime, Rye Playland features an amusement park and a beach. There is no admission fee to the park. You simply pay for the rides you want. Both the beach and the adjoining pool have a nominal entrance fee. Playland has free concerts and fireworks displays throughout the summer. Also, miniature golf and ice skating are available seasonally. Open since 1928, the park also has historical exhibits on display.

Muscoot Farm is another great place for families. It is a working farm in northern Westchester with cows, pigs, sheep, turkeys, and horses. There is a lot to learn about the history of agriculture here. It helps young people learn that the food they eat does not just come from a supermarket shelf. The exhibits illustrate the methods people used to survive a century ago. There are lots of educational and entertaining programs offered on the weekends. Also, there are hiking trails that really let you get back to nature! Just off I-684 in Somers, it is also convenient to drive to.