As much elevated culture, music, and fine dining as the Hudson Valley has to offer individual explorers, there are also plenty of places and events that are fun for the entire family. Planning a visit with the kids? Here are some must-see destinations and happenings to add to the list.
SplashDown Beach | Fishkill
When the dog days of summer roll around and the heat starts to take a toll on the kids, head to SplashDown Beach Water Park in Fishkill to cool off and refresh the family spirit. From adrenaline-pumping rides like the Megalodon to the low-key Coconut Pool, there is something for every level of daring, plus a full food court. Just be sure to wait 30 minutes after sampling a nacho bowl at Iggy’s Fresh Mex before jumping in the pool.
Woodstock Farm Sanctuary | High Falls
Want to plan a mind-opening, fun, and educational family trip? Check out the Woodstock Farm Sanctuary in High Falls. Each of the 310 animals has been given a lifelong sanctuary on the farm, and visitors are encouraged to learn more about animal rights and plant-based eating while getting to know the furry residents. Every second Saturday of the month, the sanctuary also features a different vendor or brand on-site.
New York Zipline Adventure Tour | Hunter
Ever wonder what happens at ski resorts in summer? The New York Zipline Adventure Tour at Hunter Mountain is the second-longest zipline in the world. The Summit Skyrider Tour takes you and the kids up 600 feet in the air through 4.6 miles of the Catskill Mountains. Want more of an adventure? For thrill-seeking families, Hunter also offers night zipping.
DC Sports | Wappingers Falls
Sand volleyball, golf simulator, bumper boats, an elaborate outdoor mini golf course—DC Sports in Wappingers Falls has it all. This is the active family’s one-stop shop for a fun-filled day of activities. DC Sports also hosts fun, high-energy birthday parties and summer camps.
Teddy Bear Museum | Marbletown
For plush snuggles and an educational tour, head to the Den of Marbletown’s Teddy Bear Museum. Along with your little ones, learn about the history of teddy bears and browse the collection of more than 5,000 Steiff teddy bears and animals, Madame Alexander dolls, Barbie dolls, and hand-carved wooden toys. Afterward, grab a coffee or a sandwich in the Mama Bear Lounge while the kids play in the Kids Cub Cave.
Skate Time 209 | Accord
Skate Time 209 in Accord is a sprawling space boasting both a hardwood roller skating rink and 10,000-square-foot indoor skateboard park. When the weather is hot, this is a great indoor place to bring the family while still keeping everyone active. Head to Skate Time on any night for open skate or reserve the rink for a birthday party.
Hot Air Balloon Festival | Rhinebeck
Floating amongst the clouds, high above the Hudson River and the lush green farms of Dutchess County, is not an experience your family is likely to ever forget. Head to the Dutchess County Fairgrounds in Rhinebeck July 12-14 for the 28th annual Hot Air Balloon Festival and see the world with fresh perspective. Staying earthbound? Enjoy the vendor booths, food, and live entertainment.
Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum | Poughkeepsie
Named Hudson Valley Magazine’s “2017 Best Museum” the Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum is the ultimate educational destination for young kids. With interactive exhibits on science, history, and nature, MHCM prides itself on getting kids moving, exploring, building, pretending, collaborating, creating, and discovering.
