Family Activities
Try something new on a New England family vacation.
From shopping at general stores and trading posts, to outdoor quests like whitewater rafting, whale watching, and hiking scenic trails, New England has a limitless selection of exciting, family-friendly activities to please kids and parents alike.
Explore the beaches, farms, and amusement parks, or bring the kids on a train ride or sightseeing cruise.
Plenty of family friendly lodgings welcome parents and kids with swimming pools, game rooms, discounted children’s meal, and group activities for the kids.
Many lodgings have a variety of accommodations and public spaces to be perfect for family reunions.
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Water Parks - Outdoor Adventures - Zoos, Aquariums & Animal Parks58 listings
Mystic, CT
Featured listing: Argia Mystic Cruises
75 Steamboat Wharf 860-536-0416Haul Away! Bring the whole family sailing
Sail away aboard the traditional sailing schooner Argia for a journey into the past. The adventure begins as the Ship's horn blows and you depart from Mystic's historic Bascule Bridge, a national historic landmark. As the ship travels down the Mystic River, join the crew in raising sail the old-fashioned way...or lend a hand steering the ship! Morgan Point Lighthouse and the quaint fishing village of Noank greet you at the river’s mouth, followed by islands and peaceful sailing.
Enjoy our lowest rates Weekdays on our first trips of the day! Pack a picnic and bring the family aboard ARGIA for a 2-hour day-sail!
Salem, NH
Featured listing: America's Stonehenge
105 Haverhill Road 603-893-8300Let your kids explore the mysteries of America's history
Kids love mysteries, and that's what makes a visit to America's Stonehenge in Salem, New Hampshire, a great trip for your family. A half-mile trail through the pine woods leads to megaliths, stone chambers, a rock altar, and other strange artifacts. Were they built by colonial farmers or Native Americans? Or constructed by ancient people -- Druid priests, perhaps -- who left similar monuments all over great Britain. Adding to the mystery is the fact that you'll find megaliths of the same type scattered around New England. Our site, however, is one of the largest collections. What's more, many other sites are on private property, and off limits to visitors. So come visit our woods, and find out why they've left scholars confused for decades.
Chichester and Hooksett, NH
Featured listing: Chuckster's Family Fun Park
Two Great Locations 603-798-3555True fun and games for everyone at these New Hampshire play parks
Fun for all ages is an understatement at New Hampshire’s two Chuckster’s locations. At Chuckster’s Ice Cream & Miniature Golf in Hooksett, NH, you can tee off from inside a fire tower on a multi-level mini golf course (one of two huge courses) and, after 18 amazing holes, adjourn to the ice cream barn. At Chuckster’s Family Fun Park in Chichester, NH, mini golf is just one of 16 unique attractions. Race on the go-kart speedway, scale our Klime Walls challenge, and zip along the new 265-foot Zipline. Fun games include Downpour Derby, Shoot-N-Shower (foul-shot loser gets a watery surprise), ChucksterBall and Frantic Hoops. Need recharging? There’s ice cream, pizza, chicken tenders, burgers and more.
Jefferson, NH
Santa's Village
528 Presidential Highway 603-586-4445Will the kids love going to an attraction named after Santa Claus? Of course!
With a name like Santa’s Village, how could the kids not have the time of their lives? There are enough rides to provide appropriate thrills for every member of the family. Soar on the Skyway Sleigh monorail or ride the Jingle Bell Express through the village. Go ‘round on the Reindeer Carousel or see the amazing views from the Ferris wheel. Slide downhill on the YouTubing ride or Yule Log Flume, drive bumper cars or antique cars. Then there’s the water park with three, three-story-high, twisty water slides, a splash pad for preschoolers and the Ho Ho H20 attraction with splashes, slides and other interactive fun. Plus, you can meet Santa, feed his reindeer and go on a park-wide elf scavenger hunt!
Gorham, NH
Great Glen Trails
Route 16 at Pinkham Notch 603-466-3988Fun all four seasons for all the members of your family at this active outdoor center
Fun for everyone in the family, every season of the year: That’s the goal at Great Glen Trails Outdoor Center, at the base of the Mt. Washington Auto Road. That might mean searching for moose and eagles as you paddle along the Androscoggin River on a wildlife kayak cruise. Or, packing a picnic lunch and hiking up to the Great Angel or Cadiddlehopper Cabin. Or biking over smooth, well-marked carriage roads. In the winter, it means superior cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and, a favorite with families, snow tubing down Tubing Hill, enjoying s’mores and hot cocoa by the fire pit on weekends and holidays. The comfortable base lodge has lockers, showers and a fireplace. The Outfitters Shop has all the best in outdoor gear to buy or rent.
North Woodstock, NH
Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves
1712 Lost River Road -- Route 112W 603-745-8031Trek through a White Mountain wonderland at Lost River Gorge
Take your family on a journey beneath the earth at Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves in New Hampshire's White Mountains. You'll find yourself exploring a spectacular wilderness wonderland formed millions of years ago by glaciers, water, and wild weather. Located on a preserve owned by the Society for the Protection of New Hampshire Forests, Lost River Gorge is home to granite cliffs, spectacular waterfalls, rugged caves, and a river that plays hide-and-seek amid the rocks. Hike along a three-quarter mile boardwalk, or step off and explore the boulder caves, including the Sun Altar, Thor's Workshop, the Devil's Kitchen, the Lemon Squeezer, and the Judgment Hall of Pluto. Sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing are recommended. Open early May to mid-October.
North Woodstock, NH
White Mountains Attractions
200 Kancamagus Highway 603-745-8720Every day in the White Mountains brings a new adventure or activity for fun-seeking families
You know what people who bring their families to the White Mountains never hear? The words “I’m bored.” There is simply too much to do! Shoot down North America’s longest alpine slide, visit a park where fairy tales come to life, explore the area in a Side X Side vehicle or on a cog railway. Let the kids poke their way through glacial caves, go mountain biking at a ski resort, slide and splash their way through a world-class water park. Learn about loons at a wildlife center or about rural living at a country doctor museum. Visit an aquarium, the largest arcade in the world or a sled dog kennel. From disc golf to gondola rides, there’s a thrilling family experience around every corner in the White Mountains. To find out more, follow our link above or call us today at 1-800-346-3687.
Worcester, MA
Worcester Art Museum
55 Salisbury Street 508-799-4406Discover, explore, and interact with art from around the world
Connect with global stories at the Worcester Art Museum. Discover ancient mosaics, medieval arms and armor, contemporary paintings and sculptures, and much more in the Museum’s wide-ranging collection and exhibitions. Meet your new favorite artist, ask questions, or enjoy an escape. Find creative and hands-on activities for all ages across the Museum’s many galleries. There are endless ways to experience the Worcester Art Museum.
Looking to dive deeper? Develop your own skills and expand your creativity in studio art classes for youths, teens, and adults. Want more art during the school year? Explore our special school break class offerings for children and teens.
Free admission for Members, children 17 and under, and students at participating College Partner schools.
Charlestown, NH
Morningside Flight Park
357 Morningside Lane 603-542-4416At this complete flight park, an adventure — on land or in the air — is waiting for everyone
There’s an adventure for everyone at the Morningside Flight Park, where a gently elevating slope makes it a world-renowned training ground for hang gliding and paragliding beginners and a challenging launch site for experienced pilots. After instructions, lessons and courses of various types, you’ll take to the sky — perhaps foot-launching from the hillside, or in a tandem hang gliding flight with a professional instructor. Kids will love the zip line tours, where you fly through the tree tops from platform to platform in a course designed for almost everyone. There’s also laser tag with state-of-the-art equipment, great for a family outing or a birthday celebration. Extend the fun by camping on the back side of the training hill, in your own tent or a cabin. Swimming and fishing ponds are nearby.
Sturbridge, MA
Old Sturbridge Village
1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 508-347-3362Family fun is around every corner in this re-created 19th-century New England village
Everywhere you turn at Old Sturbridge Village in historic Sturbridge, MA, there is a shop, store, farm or home designed to draw families into life in a rural 1830s New England village. Watch the blacksmith or printer at work, see how food was cooked at a kitchen hearth, help with animals at the Freeman Farm. See how wool was prepared for spinning and how lumber was cut for the village in the sawmill. Kids will love visiting heritage-breed chickens, cows and pigs, riding in a horse-drawn wagon and checking out the graffiti on the original schoolhouse desks. There are nature walks, covered bridges, bakeries and souvenir shops, and dining is casual and delicious at the Bullard Tavern or Ox & Yoke Cafe. (Afterward, stop by the Village Scoop Shop across from the playground.)
Tilton, NH
Lakes Region Tourism Association
61 Laconia Road 603-286-8008It’s safe to say the kids will never be bored when you book a Lakes Region vacation
New Hampshire’s Lakes Region you and your kids will want to come back season after season, year after year. Take a scenic boat cruise on Lake Winnipesaukee; ride one of the trains that take you along the lake or up the mountain; visit animals native to New Hampshire at the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center; visit one of our many farms to see animals and get your local produce; looking for more adventure zip line; mountain coasters; mountain biking and aerial tree top tour at Gunstock Mountain Resort; visit the world’s largest arcade at Funspot; enjoy a park with caves to explore at Polar Caves; scenic chair lift and gondola rides; kakaying and paddle boarding in the summer and skiing; snowmobiling; ice skating in the winter.
With great restaurants, tax-free shopping (main streets and outlets) and a variety of accommodations, the kids will have a blast, and you will leave already planning your next vacation.
Providence, Newport, Westerly, RI, MA
Save The Bay
Multiple Centers & Dock Locations 401-272-3540Have fun while learning something? Save The Bay can help you do that!
For Save The Bay's educators, learning and having fun go hand-in-hand. This nonprofit environmental organization offers plenty of opportunities to do just that at its year-round locations in Providence and Newport, RI. At its Bay Center in Providence, you can explore shoreline trails, enjoy the fishing cove and public dock, or even hop on board a Lighthouse Tour (June through October). In Newport, you can stop by their interactive Hamilton Family Aquarium to check out sea urchins, horseshoe crabs, skates, sharks and more. Or, you can take a Seal Tour from Perrotti Park from November through April.
Boat tours depart from Newport, Westerly, and Providence RI.
Charlemont, MA
Crab Apple Whitewater (MA)
2056 Mohawk Trail 800-553-7238Members of rafting company’s family join trips to make sure they’re fun, comfortable for all families
At Crab Apple Whitewater, members of their family join every rafting trip to ensure a comfortable, exceptional experience for members of your family. In Massachusetts, there are trips just perfect for families. The Fife Brook section of the Deerfield River features Class I to III rapids, exciting but family-friendly, through mild whitewater for 2.5 hours followed by a hearty meal at the Mohawk Trail base camp, with a patio overlooking the river. And kids love the Funyaks option, where they can fire giant squirt guns from inflatable kayaks as they float through five miles of the lower Deerfield River. The Funyaks hold one or two; the self-bailing rafts hold six to seven paddlers. Spend the night in a nearby hotel or motel recommended by Crap Apple.
York, ME
York's Wild Kingdom
Route 1 - (GPS address: 1 Animal Park Road) 207-363-4911New England's Only Zoo AND Amusement Park
Get your tickets to the zoo at yorkzoo.com - Use the promo code VNEzoo25 to receive $2 off each adult ticket you purchase. In order to get this discount, you must buy your tickets online only. Discount codes may NOT be used at the in person ticket box.
See African lions, a Bengal tiger, ring tail lemurs, and so much more at York’s Wild Kingdom! We have a wide range of animals in beautifully landscaped exhibits, just walking distance from the quaint beach town of York Beach. Here at YWK you can feed African pygmy goats, deer, ducks, and a flock of parakeets all by hand. Enjoy some rides in our amusement park or play a round on our mini golf course. Feel free to bring a picnic lunch or feast from our snack bars.
North Woodstock, NH
Ice Castles
24 Clark Farm RoadA spectacular frozen fantasy for the young – and young at heart
Ice Castles in North Woodstock is a fun-filled winter activity that has everything a child – or a child at heart – could fantasize about: ice slides, mazes of tunnels, crawl spaces, frozen fountains, thrones and towers of cascading ice. This frozen fortress is the perfect place to make unforgettable memories as a family. But the fun doesn’t end when the sun goes down. In fact, there’s always a spectacular light show at night, as LED lights embedded inside the ice turn the castles from brilliant shades of blue, to vibrant red, purple, and green. Families are advised to buy tickets online in advance (you can spend as much time as you like once you’re inside), to dress warmly with boots, and to consider a small sled instead of a stroller for really little ones. There’s also a concession stand with hot chocolate, cider, and warm treats.
Essex, CT
Connecticut River Museum
67 Main Street, Steamboat Dock 860-767-8269Families can explore the Connecticut river with indoor, outdoor exhibits and activities
At the Connecticut River Museum, families can learn about and enjoy the great river with indoor and outdoor activities. In the Museum, exhibits tell the history of the river from Indigenous peoples through the 20th century, and describe its environmental impact and how it has been used over the years, from a power source for mills to quarrying and fisheries and for recreation. Outside the Museum building, you can board the re-created 1614 sailing vessel Onrust for an afternoon or evening cruise (or explore the unique ship at the dock) or board the 64-foot RiverQuest eco-tour boat for scenic tours of the river. Every passenger is offered binoculars for better viewing and kid-sized binos are always available. Check the calendar for a series of cruises designed just for kids and their families throughout the season. Everyone will have an opportunity to use binoculars, learn nautical terms, and birdwatch.
Berline, NH
Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce
961 Main Street 603-228-0836The list of fun things to do in this family-friendly part of N.H. is almost endless
Make sure you have your list ready when you tell the kids you’re going to the Androscoggin Valley, NH and they ask what there is to do there. Because here’s a partial selection of activities: skiing, snowshoeing, ATV and snowmobile riding, horseback riding, hiking up mountains, biking past rivers, whitewater rafting, canoeing, zip-lining. You can visit a sugar house to see how maple syrup is made, go fat biking or watch for moose on a guided tour. There are scenic gondola rides, rock-climbing walls, nature refuges. Take a sleigh ride or go dog-sledding. Indoor activities include everything from concerts to sporting events. The busy region includes restaurants to please everyone, and lodging options range from camping and glamping sites to hotels and resorts with pools.
Laconia, NH
Margate Resort on Winnipesaukee
76 Lake Street 603-524-5210Your family’s unforgettable vacation awaits at this resort right on the lake
Come join the families who make memories at the Margate on Winnipesaukee, a great home base for your New Hampshire getaway. Just steps from the lake’s calm, scenic Paugus Bay, the resort has a 400-foot private sandy beach and kayak and paddle board rentals. Glide around the bay’s islands, swim out to the raft or just relax in your beach chair. There’s a heated indoor pool and oversized whirlpool, large outdoor pool, fitness center and an arcade game room. Area activities include hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, boat cruises, a scenic railroad, ice arena, Funspot (the largest arcade in the world) and fun shopping. Dine in the Gazebo Beach Bar or in one of many local restaurants.
The Berkshires Region, MA
Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts
413-499-1600Fall is Family Time
Bring the family to the Berkshires for unique adventures certain to make everyone happy! Find trail hiking for beginners through the most experienced climber, including accessible trails. Guided walks throughout Berkshire County feature stops at intriguing historic places. View the colorful foliage from a new angle by riding a mountain coaster, trying out a zipline, or challenging yourself at an aerial adventure park. Take the family to one of many fall festivals and fairs to sample taste treats, pet animals, and enjoy the sounds of local musicians. You can even find hands-on adventures, from guided immersion into the local wildlife scene and creating your own art. Hungry? Flavors abound, with everything from homemade pizza to fine dining - something to fill every belly! You’ll want to spend several days taking it all in!
Dummerston, VT
Scott Farm
707 Kipling Road 802-490-2865Farm’s Pick Your Own and Stone Wall Park make it a must-see for families
Fresh air and family fun, and plenty of both! That’s what you’ll find at Scott Farm, a 571-acre farm of The Landmark Trust USA. The farm, which dates back to 1791, offers regular events (check the website for specific times and dates) and a farm store with everything from cider donuts to apples and Vermont-made gifts. Sample baked goods or sandwiches at Pippin’s Café and wander the incredible Stone Wall Park. Their Pick Your Own orchards, a favorite with locals and visitors, specialize in delicious apples and peaches. Turn your day trip into an overnight vacation by staying at one of Landmark’s historic properties, from the scenic Dutton Farmhouse (sleeps 8) to Rudyard Kipling’s Naulakha (sleeps 8) or its Carriage House (sleeps 4).
Niantic, CT
Black Hawk Sport Fishing
Sailing from Cini Memorial Park 860-448-3662Families, kids of all ages are more than welcome aboard this sport-fishing and specialty cruise boat
Is there such a thing as being too young to fish? Not according to Black Hawk Sport Fishing, where kids are more than welcome. (They might even get to honk a boat horn or win a T-shirt!) Bring your own gear or rent a rod and reel, then settle back as an experienced captain and crew head out in pursuit of everything from stripers to fluke. Or, choose a fireworks, sunset or nature cruise, or a seal or eagle watch cruise. Private charters are also available for family gatherings or reunions. There’s a galley with burgers, hot dogs, snacks and beverages. Check the website for specialty trips: last-minute day trips, seal watches and fireworks cruises. Come see why Black Hawk was voted Southeastern Connecticut’s number one party boat.
Falmouth, MA
Island Queen
75 Falmouth Heights Road 508-548-4800Beginning, middle and end: Every part of this voyage from Cape to Vineyard is a blast for kids
It’s hard to predict which your kids will love more: their time on the Cape, their time on the Vineyard, or their time on the Island Queen, the passenger ferry taking them from one place to the other. They’ll love hanging out on the deck during the 35-minute trip. And they like being able to bring their bikes and paddle boards – and pets! In Oak Bluffs, MA. they can ride the Flying Horses carousel; in Edgartown, MA, there are fun shops to explore; and Martha’s Vineyard’s bike trails and harbors are spectacular. Back in Falmouth, MA, there’s the Shining Sea Bikeway, an aquarium, a Cape Cod Baseball League team, a county fair and beautiful beaches. The ferry has a snack bar and restrooms, and kids 4 and under travel for free.
Oakdale, CT
The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village
1650 Hartford-New London Tpke. (Rt. 85) 860-443-4367Families always have a roaring good time at this dinosaur-themed adventure park
Where can you find a roaring good time as a family, with something to satisfy everyone from tots to teens? At The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village! Start with the dinosaurs, of course — 60 of them, life-sized, to be discovered along an easy-to-walk, 1-5-mile trail. Then there are the T-Rex water cannons and other delights at the Splash Pad. Over at T-Rex Tower, dozens of challenging features mean the kids will love this 2 1/2-story playscape. Little guys will enjoy Monty’s Playground and Melody Magic, a musical playground for all ages. There’s also mini golf, a “mine” where you can dig for crystals and minerals — and over at Thunder Creek, you can pan for fools gold. Enjoy burgers and snacks at Monty’s Munchies or bring your own picnic!
Bretton Woods, NH
Mount Washington Cog Railway
Off Route 302 603-278-5404Thrill ride up Mt. Washington continues to delight railroad fans of all ages
Families from all over the world come to the majestic White Mountains of New Hampshire to be thrilled by the ride up on the historic Mount Washington Cog Railway. The dramatic ascent to the summit of the Northeast’s highest peak features amazing views of lush forests, deep chasms and the steepest railroad trestle in the world in Jacob’s Ladder. (Yes, the trees are straight: It’s you who are at an angle!) Kids will love the commentary of the entertaining and knowledgeable engineer and brakeman or brakewoman. The journey begins at a base station with a great interactive museum and observation deck and, at the summit, there’s an interactive weather exhibit as well as a summit post office to mail postcards direct fro
Gorham, NH
Mount Washington Auto Road
Route 16 - Pinkham Notch 603-466-3988Auto road has a long history of families traveling along it to reach the grand summit
For over 160 years, families have been traveling up the Mt. Washington Auto Road, first by horse-drawn carriages and wagons, now by cars and tour vans – and SnowCoaches in the winter! Reaching the Northeast’s highest summit means looking out over the grand Presidential Range and beyond. There’s also the Mt. Washington Observatory Museum to explore, a cafeteria and gift shop. And there are other ways to travel: via ATVs on certain days, hiking and, in the winter, you can even snowshoe or Nordic ski down after traveling up to the tree line in the SnowCoach. There are sunset and sunrise tours, and the Spring Adventure Tour lets you get up close to the process of clearing the road of giant snowbanks and drifts.
Bethlehem, NH
Town of Bethlehem
From skiing to shopping, there’s something fun for every member of the family
Bring the family to Bethlehem, N.H., and be prepared to be entertained, White Mountains-style. There’s fantastic alpine skiing and snowboarding, of course, at six nearby mountains: Cannon, Bretton Woods, Attitash, Loon, Waterville Valley and Wildcat. Miles of cross-country skiing, snowshoeing trails, snowmobile trails, and fat biking trails wind through the area. In the warmer months, those trails are great for biking and hiking for all ages. There’s also tennis and basketball on public courts, two golf courses, a movie theater, town pool, pristine rivers to cool yourself down and a lively downtown area with all sorts of shops and cafes. It’s a short drive to a variety of attractions including Santa’s Village, Story Land, Whale’s Tale Waterpark, the Flume Gorge and the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
Plymouth, MA
See Plymouth
4 North Street 508-747-0100Interactive history museums, boating excursions, kid-friendly dining and lodging make Plymouth a must for families
Check out some more great things to do while visiting Plymouth County, MA!
A walk through the streets of picturesque Plymouth will show you right away why it’s a family-favorite vacation spot. Kids love going on board the Mayflower II and leaning over the nearby barrier to get a peek at Plymouth Rock. At the Plimoth Patuxet Museums, interpreters are happy to answer questions as you explore life in a 17-century English village and a Wampanoag homesite. Sometimes children can help scrape out a dugout canoe or play with a Pilgrim child’s toy. At the Plimoth Grist Mill, you can see how corn was ground. At the harbor, go on a pirate cruise, whale-watch, or take a harbor cruise aboard a paddlewheel boat. There are arcades, ice cream shops, family-friendly restaurants and the Edaville Family Theme Park a short drive away. Please visit our website to learn more about these activities and others to prepare for your trip to Plymouth.
Lincoln, NH
Granite State Railway
64 Railroad Street 603-745-2135Travel the Rails in Lincoln — Where Lasting Family Memories Are Made
All aboard the Granite State Railway for a relaxing journey into America’s railroad past. Climb into restored vintage coaches, breathe in that crisp White Mountains air, sit back and enjoy the scenery through the woods and banks along the winding Pemigewasset River. Join us on our NEW Lincoln Rail Bikes, offering families a fun and active way to experience the outdoors together. This unique, motor-assisted ride travels along the rails through the scenic beauty of the White Mountains — creating unforgettable moments for families, couples, and groups alike. At the Gift Shop, grab snacks, ice cream and soda — or bring your own picnic lunch. Trains and Rail Bikes will run May through October, then Thanksgiving through mid-December, join us on our beloved Santa Train experience. Book your one-of-a-kind Lincoln rail experience now!
Boston, MA
Meet Boston
Information Centers on Boston Common and Prudential Towers (Center Court) 888-733-2678Family-friendly Boston has something for everyone – and it’s all a short walk away
Families love Boston, and it’s no secret why: It’s so walkable, and there’s so much to do, everyone leaves happy. See tea tossed overboard at the Tea Party Ships & Museum, then take in the Children’s Museum practically next door. Visit the Paul Revere House and the USS Constitution on the exciting Freedom Trail, catch a game at Fenway or take a relaxing trip on the famous Swan Boats in the Public Garden (don’t forget to visit the “Make Way for Ducklings” statues while you’re there). There are plenty of playgrounds, a classic carousel, trolley and duck boat tours, street performers at fun Faneuil Hall, seals, penguins and sharks in the New England Aquarium – and you can watch a lightning storm happen indoors in the Museum of Science.
Warwick, RI
Visit Warwick, RI
3275 Post RoadOutdoor and indoor activities engage every member of your family in Warwick
Indoors and out, Warwick, RI has enough activities to keep every member of the family entertained. Picturesque parks have beaches, nature trails, paddling, boat ramps, ballfields – and a public golf course! In Goddard Park, you can even arrange to go horseback riding at C and L Stables. Freshwater ponds have great swimming and fishing. There are kids’ programs at the Warwick Public Library, and pick-your-own blueberries at Rocky Point Farm. Greet the animals or pick pumpkins at Morris Farm or soar in the air at Launch Trampoline Park. At The Impossible Dream Playground, children of all physical abilities can join in the fun. There’s fun shopping at the Warwick Mall, movie theaters and an art center with family-friendly improv theater nights.
Hampton Beach, NH
Hampton Beach Village District
115 Ocean Boulevard 603-926-8717It’s easy to see why families keep coming back for vacations in this fun, lively area
There is no whining about being bored allowed at Hampton Beach, NH, where parents and kids have been coming for decades for the best in family entertainment. That might mean exploring beach tidal pools or running in the surf, spinning and sliding in a playground, trying to conquer pinball machines and other games in arcades, gathering for movies or concerts right on the beach, or oohing and aahing over fireworks displays or thrilling acrobatics at the Circus. There’s an oceanarium with touch tanks, candy and ice cream shops with more flavors than you can imagine, and plenty of hotels with outdoor pools. Dining is casual and easy, from take-out fries on the boardwalk to seafood restaurants right across from the beach. Check the website for information on the Children’s Festival, and the sand sculpture contest.
Rochester, VT
Liberty Hill Farm & Inn
511 Liberty Hill Road 802-767-3926Learn about daily life on a working dairy farm with tours that are educational – and fun!
If your kids think milk’s journey begins at the grocery store, it’s time to book a fun farm tour at the Liberty Hill Farm & Inn. The inn, which has been welcoming guests since 1984, has an award-winning herd of 270 Robeth Holsteins, and visitors can watch the milking process as well as try their own hand at milking. Adults and children can also bottle-feed newborn calves, offer some hay to friendly cows and cuddle with kittens in the barn. Tours are scheduled to coincide with daily chores so everyone can experience the daily life of a working farm. And all proceeds from the tour go directly to the nonprofit Liberty Hill Center for Agricultural Education. Come see why families return to Rochester, VT to take the tour year after year.
Concord, NH
Scenic RailRiders
188 Sewalls Falls Road 603-931-1700Plan something out of the ordinary for a family outing: riding the rails on custom-built “bikes”
Your Last Chance to Pedal the Rails in Concord NH, 2026 will be our last year in Concord!
Your family is going to love this: Pedaling over picturesque, abandoned railroad tracks in a custom-built Rail-Bike for two or four people. The all-ages, one-of-a-kind adventure from Scenic Railriders will take you through woods, past farmland along the Merrimack River and even over bridges. Pedaling required along the 6.2-mile route is leisurely, and kids 5 and over can usually reach those pedals! There are two rest stops as your guides help turn the caravan around. It’s a comfortable ride — the “bikes” have handle bars to rest your hands, seat belts and redundant brakes. The kids’ car seats, child seats or booster seats can be strapped right onto the “bike” seats, and groups of more than four can have their “bikes” linked. Advanced reservations are required.
We have added a 2.3 mile evening Holiday Lights Tour Mid-November through Christmas Weekend!
Providence, RI
Go Providence
1 Sabin Street 401-751-1177No secret why families focus on the Providence area for fun activities, attractions
Families flock to the Providence, RI area, and it’s no secret why: There is so much to do! Visit the African elephants and snow leopards at the Roger Williams Park Zoo & Carousel Village or the farm animals at the Casey Farm, take a river gondola by bonfires in the spectacular WaterFire event or a swan boat in Roger Williams Park or go kayaking. Kids can “work” in the innovation lab at the Providence Children’s Museum or explore the skies at the Museum of Natural History and Planetarium. In the winter, they can go ice skating at BankNewport City Center. With a variety of family-friendly hotels (some with pools) and restaurants, the area is a welcoming one for families four seasons of the year. For more info, visit GoProvidence.com
Albany, NH
Huttopia - White Mountains
57 Pine Knoll Road 603-447-3131Time for that family winter getaway? Mountain cabins are close to all the best activities
Iona Lake becomes your private playground with swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing for perch or black bass. Our Little Trappers program entertains children under 12 with supervised nature activities. The heated saltwater pool offers relaxation and aquatic fun in all seasons. Hiking trails cross our 50-acre property, leading to the White Mountain National Forest. Every family finds their happiness between outdoor adventures and convivial moments around the campfire under the stars.
Bethlehem, NH
Town of Bethlehem
Lots to keep every member of the family happy in this fun White Mountains region
Make family-friendly Bethlehem, NH your headquarters for your White Mountains adventure. Comfortable lodging options include summer campgrounds to winter ski resorts and year-round inns. And fun activities are everywhere, from downhill and cross-country skiing and snowboarding to golfing and hiking. Take the kids out on a bike trip through forests and along the river or visit a water park. See Santa’s Village or Story Land, or amaze them with a trip up Mt. Washington on a cog railroad train. Visit the Flume Gorge or arrange for a wildlife or maple-sugaring tour at The Rocks. See a movie in the Colonial Theatre, one of the country’s oldest continuously operating movie theaters. The area boasts plenty of fun places to shop and to eat, as well as a variety of festivals.
Narragansett, RI
Block Island Ferry
304 Great Island Road 401-783-7996There’s an activity for everyone on Block Island, and the fun starts with the ferry trip over
Kids love Block Island, RI, which makes it the perfect spot for your family vacation. Take the Block Island Ferry out of Narragansett, [Point Judith] or Newport, RI: It’s a fun, scenic trip. When you get off the ferry at Old Harbor, the visitor’s center is right across the parking lot with lots of ideas. But here are a few in advance: Head out to Mohegan Bluffs for stunning cliff views, visit the exotic-animal farm, walk to a lighthouse or over nature trails. Bike to a beach to go snorkeling, clamming, surfing, paddle boarding or fishing. Go horseback riding or parasailing! And don’t forget activities in your departure port — those astonishing mansions or the Car Museum in Newport, the beaches and clam chowder in Galilee, home of Point Judith.
The Forks, ME
Crab Apple Whitewater (ME)
3 Lake Moxie Road 800-553-7238Guided family rafting trips down Maine’s rivers will create memories to last a lifetime
Create some family memories that will last a lifetime when you book a rafting trip with family owned and operated Crab Apple Whitewater in Maine. Experienced guides will lead you on extraordinary journeys on the Kennebec and Dead Rivers, from dramatic plunges and huge rolling waves to smaller rapids where you can get out and float next to your self-bailing raft. At the base camp on the Kennebec River, you’ll find a heated outdoor pool, paintball fields and a conference room where you can watch video of your day’s adventure. Lodging at the base camp runs from bunk-style rooms to suites with whirlpool tubs, and there’s a welcoming pub and restaurant. Stay over two nights and spend a day hiking to Maine’s highest waterfall, Moxie Falls.
West Dover, VT
Crab Apple Whitewater (VT)
289 Handle Road 800-553-7238No surprise that family-owned and operated rafting company is a hit with other families
Crab Apple Whitewater has been family owned and operated since 1983, and family members join every rafting trip to make sure it’s an exceptional experience. So it’s no surprise that families come back year after year to conquer the rapids and just have a blast. In Vermont, that means facing the exciting mix of Class II to IV rapids in the West River, a true Vermont gem. It’s a mix that’s ideal for experienced rafters as well as beginners, so it’s perfect for families. Helmets and lifejackets of all sizes are provided, guides are dedicated and experienced, and the scenery is breathtaking along the 8-mile trip. The minimum age is 11, and self-bailing Hyside rafts typically hold six to seven paddlers.
Lincoln, NH
NHSCOT & NH Highland Games Festival
Loon Mountain Resort - 60 Loon Mountain RoadFind Scottish Fun for the Whole Family
Get your kids interested in Scottish culture from an early age with the help of NHSCOT, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Scottish culture year-round. Join Highland Dance of NHSCOT to learn the steps of the Highland Fling, the Sword Dance, and the Strathspey and Reel. Prefer to explore your musical abilities? Sign up for classes with the Pipes & Drums of NHSCOT. In the winter, enjoy ice skating in your kilt or a Curling on Ice Try It Class. Or celebrate the New Year, Scottish style, at NHSCOT’s family-friendly Hogmanay event. And don’t forget about NHSCOT’s annual NH Highland Games & Festival, a “must-attend” event for all ages, which takes place each year during the third weekend in September.
New London, CT
Cross Sound Lighthouse Cruises
2 Ferry Street 860-444-4620Catamaran lighthouse tours are Instagram-worthy, educational — and fun for everyone in the family
The kids are going to love this tour! Two-hour lighthouse cruises from Cross Sound Cruises depart New London, CT and Orient Point, NY and go past a variety of famous, and much-loved, lighthouses, including Race Rock Light and New London Ledge Lighthouse (both said to be haunted); Orient Point Lighthouse, nicknamed “The Coffee Pot” by local mariners; Watch Hill Light, whose construction was authorized by Thomas Jefferson; and New London Harbor Light, one of the original 12 colonial lighthouses in the country. Tours — there are three to choose from — also go by Revolutionary-Era forts. Ride in comfort on a catamaran with air-conditioned cabins and lounges and large outside decks. Snacks and beverages, including ice-cold cocktails, are available. Each cruise is narrated by an experienced guide.
Middlefield, CT
Lyman Orchards
32 Reeds Gap Road 860-349-1793Named Connecticut's Best Pick-Your-Own Farm for 2024 by Connecticut Magazine
Lyman Orchards offers nearly 100 varieties of fruits from mid-June to late October including Honeyberries, Strawberries, Raspberries, Blueberries, Jostaberries, Peaches, Nectarines, Squash, Apples and Pears. We take pride in growing top-quality, eco-certified apples and peaches using sustainable practices. Located just 30 minutes from Hartford, Waterbury, and New Haven, CT, Lyman Orchards offers more than fruit picking. Visit the Apple Barrel Farm Market for handmade desserts and sandwiches, explore our seasonal Sunflower or Corn Maze, dine at the 1741 Pub & Grill, or enjoy one of our award-winning golf courses!
MA
Visit Concord MA
Discover History, Culture, and Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family in Concord, MA
Concord, MA offers an abundance of family-friendly activities and events that blend history, culture, and outdoor fun. Retrace the steps of Revolutionary War soldiers, literary greats, and more with a walking tour where guides bring the town’s rich history to life. Indulge in Concord’s bustling food scene, take a guided Chocolate Tour of the downtown area, and stroll between locally owned shops. Tour the Orchard House, home of Louisa May Alcott, where fans of Little Women can explore the home where the beloved novel was written and took place. For a scenic outdoor experience, check out the area’s many walking and hiking trails, and don’t miss a visit to Minute Man National Historical Park to hear tales of the first shots of the American Revolution. Between Concord’s many museums, its local charm, and well-preserved historic sites, your family will be begging you to stay longer.
Hartford, CT
Mark Twain House & Museum
351 Farmington Avenue 860-247-0998Explore a slice of life in the home of Mark Twain
Step into the world of one of America’s greatest literary icons at The Mark Twain House & Museum. This historic home invites visitors to explore a slice of life in the home of Samuel Clemens—better known as Mark Twain. Kids and adults will marvel at the beautifully restored Victorian home complete with Louis C. Tiffany & Co. interior decoration and stenciling, period furniture, photos, paintings, and more. Embark on a guided tour of the 3-story mansion where Sam and his wife Olivia raised their family and Sam wrote The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn. Enjoy a 22-minute film by Ken Burns, check out changing exhibits in the museum center, and don’t miss the gift shop for Twain-inspired keepsakes.
Darien, CT
The Mather Homestead
19 Stephen Mather Road 203-202-7602The Mather Homestead, Darien’s only National Historic Landmark, is a beautifully preserved 1778 home with a rich American story spanning more than two centuries. Built during the Revolutionary War, the home was designed to keep the Mather family safe from Tory raids. Deacon Joseph Mather, son of the influential patriot preacher Reverend Moses Mather, lived here with his wife and their eleven children. In 1906, Stephen Tyng Mather, borax entrepreneur and first director of the National Park Service, occupied the home as his summer residence and added the beautiful gardens that continue to grace the property. Today, guided tours (Monday through Friday) tell the Mather family story and bring American history to life, from the Revolutionary era through the early 2000s, when the home was entrusted to The Mather Homestead Foundation.
Rockland, ME
A Morning in Maine
3 Park Drive 207-691-7245Set Sail on a Family Adventure
Create unforgettable family memories aboard Morning in Maine, a beautiful 55-foot sailboat cruising the scenic waters of Penobscot Bay. Whether you hop on for a morning, afternoon, or sunset sail, your two-hour cruise is packed with fun and discovery. Spot seabirds, harbor seals, and lighthouses as you relax on deck—or jump into the action and lend a hand in sailing the boat!
Families will especially love the Science Under Sail cruises, where a science educator leads hands-on activities using real oceanographic tools—perfect for curious kids. For a bigger adventure, set off on the six-hour trip to Monroe Island, ME, complete with beachcombing, hiking, and a lobster picnic lunch. Looking for something more personal? Private charters are also available.
New London, CT
Block Island Express
2 Ferry StreetA Fun, Fast, and Family-Friendly Way to Travel to Block Island
Block Island Express offers a fast and comfortable ferry ride from New London, CT or Orient Point, NY and Block Island, RI - perfect for families planning a day trip or vacation. The high-speed ferry gets you to Block Island in just over an hour, giving you more time to explore and less time in transit. On board, passengers enjoy spacious seating, air conditioning, clean restrooms, and a full-service snack bar with sandwiches, drinks, and kid-friendly options. There’s ample space to walk around, and outdoor decks provide panoramic views of Long Island Sound. Bikes, strollers, and beach gear are welcome, and pet-friendly areas are available. The trip itself becomes part of the adventure, offering families a fun and scenic start to their island getaway.
Moultonborough, NH
Castle in The Clouds
455 Old Mountain Road 603-476-5900Interactive activities and stunning natural beauty at a National Historic Landmark create an unforgettable family experience
Experience the magic of Castle in the Clouds for a day of family fun! With more than 200 programs and events throughout the year, there are plenty of hands-on activities for kids. Step outdoors to hike scenic trails maintained by the Lakes Region Conservation Trust, feed rainbow trout at Shannon Pond, and order ice cream from Cafe in the Clouds. Additionally, there is a meadow perfect for little ones to burn off some energy before ending the day with a trolley ride back to the parking lot. Castle in the Clouds promises a day filled with smiles and memories for the entire family!
Duxbury, MA
Art Complex Museum
189 Alden Street 781-934-6634Art, Nature, and Hands-On Fun – Plus, Admission is Free
The Art Complex Museum is a cultural destination offering art, history, and natural beauty -all housed in a sleek modern space overlooking tranquil gardens. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions showcasing contemporary artists, American paintings, Works on Paper, Asian art, and Shaker furniture, along with engaging lectures, workshops, and family-friendly programs. Outdoors, the beautifully landscaped grounds invite strolls among sculptures. Free admission makes it an accessible destination for all. With year-round events and special exhibits, every visit offers something new. It's a must-stop for art lovers and anyone seeking inspiration in Plymouth County.
Admission: Free
Providence/Newport, RI
Rhode Island Red Food Tours
Tours offered in Providence & Newport 401-684-1110Bring the whole family along for a flavorful day with Rhode Island Red Food Tours.
Our tours are designed for ages 8 and up to enjoy, with plenty of kid-friendly tastings, hands-on learning about local history, and stops at iconic Rhode Island eateries. Children love sampling clam cakes, house made ice cream scoops, or tasting a sweet treat at a local bakery, while parents enjoy discovering hidden gems to go back to and cultural stories. Walking together through charming neighborhoods makes it an easy, family-friendly adventure that mixes fun, food, and learning. Rhode Island Red Food Tours is a memorable way to spend quality time together with the whole family, young and old while experiencing Rhode Island’s best flavors. An award-winning activity for all!
Arlington, MA
Arlington Historical Society
7 Jason Street, 781-648-4300Bring History to Life With Hands-On Family Adventures
The Arlington Historical Society: Jason Russell House & Museum has a way of making history feel immediate — and for kids, that's everything. Step inside the Jason Russell House, the site of the largest skirmish of the Battle of Lexington, Concord & Menotomy, and see surviving bullet holes from 1775 up close. The Society offers educational programs and group visits tailored for school classes, homeschool groups, and scouts, with hands-on activities designed to bring colonial life to life. Throughout the year, the Society hosts community events that welcome families of all ages, with free admission to many.
Gloucester, MA
Hammond Castle Museum
80 Hesperus Avenue 978-283-2080A Castle Built for Curious Minds
Built by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., Hammond Castle Museum offers families a one-of-a-kind experience where history, science, art, and imagination meet along Gloucester’s rocky Atlantic coastline. Families can explore at their own pace with guided or self-guided tours that feature towers, courtyards, seaside views, and a Bingo-style scavenger hunt for children. Seasonal family programming includes:
- Bubbles & Books Story Times
- Princess & Prince events
- Trick-or-Treat at the Castle
- Renaissance Faire Days
- Santa Returns to the Castle
- Kid Free Weeks during school vacations.
Children ages four and under receive free admission. Advance reservations are strongly encouraged.
Bristol, RI
Audubon Society of Rhode Island - Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium
1401 Hope Street, 401-949-5454Explore WILD THINGS at the Audubon Nature Center and Aquarium!
Stroll through a pollinator garden, hike trails to Narragansett Bay, and spot birds, frogs, and turtles along the boardwalk. Inside, discover seahorses, sharks, and other fascinating marine life in the aquarium. Year-round programming includes birding walks, nature workshops, evening hikes, and close-up animal encounters with turtles, snakes, owls, and hawks.
During the summer, head "Outside with a Guide!" Small-group private tours led by an Audubon naturalist are available for adults or families with children ages 5 and up, with a maximum of 10 participants.
Sanford, ME
Huttopia - Southern Maine
149 Sand Pond Road, 207-324-1752Family-Friendly Outdoor Fun for Every Age
Create unforgettable family memories with our extensive activity program at Huttopia Southern Maine. Children love our heated swimming pool and sandy beach area at Sand Pond, perfect for building sandcastles and safe water play. Family favorites include canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and exploring our forest trails. Evening entertainment features nightly campfires with s’mores, live music, magic shows, and outdoor movie screenings under the stars. Our game room offers ping-pong, foosball, and board games for rainy days. During summer, join organized activities like guided nature walks, children’s games, yoga classes, and our popular storytelling sessions. The main lodge creates a welcoming gathering space with string lights, hammocks, and comfortable lounge areas where families naturally connect.
Hancock, MA
Huttopia - Berkshires
312 Kittle Road, 413-343-8192Create Unforgettable Family Moments in the Berkshires
Create lasting memories with included activities designed for all ages at Huttopia Berkshires. Kids love our heated swimming pool with Jiminy Peak views, while families bond over bocce, pétanque, ping pong, and badminton. Evening entertainment includes local musicians, magicians, s’mores nights, and outdoor movie screenings under the stars. Explore nearby adventures like Jiminy Peak mountain biking (3 miles away), swimming and fishing at local state parks, or hiking to spectacular Bash Bish Falls. Our Café-Bistro serves family favorites from morning croissants to wood-fired pizzas, while organized nature activities help children discover local wildlife and learn about conservation.
Warwick, RI
Goddard Memorial State Park
1095 Ives Road 401-884-2010Plenty of activities, from bridle trails to sandy beaches, at this expansive park
Stroll, swim, see an equestrian show: There are plenty of fun family things to do at Goddard Memorial State Park. The 472-acre park has 355 picnic tables, so definitely bring a lunch! There are 18 miles of bridle trails and 11 game fields, spacious lawns and forested areas and an expansive sandy, saltwater beach for swimming (there’s a seasonal lifeguard) and fishing. Launch your kayak or canoe from the boat ramp. Equestrian shows, concerts and other events are held in the pavilion. There’s also a par-36, nine-hole public golf course. (Call for a tee time, since walk-ins are not allowed.) This four-season park along the shores of Greenwich Cove and Greenwich Bay is a great place to spend the day. - Park Map (PDF)
Warwick, RI
Rocky Point Park
1 Rocky Point AvenueFrom amusement park to state park, Rocky Point has been a favorite with families for decades
Rocky Point has been a favorite gathering place for families for almost two centuries, first as the Rocky Point Amusement Park and, since 2014, in its reincarnation as a multi-use state park. Rocky Point State Park, set on 124 acres in the upper part of Narragansett Bay, features hiking and biking trails and, in the highlands, wide open fields for recreation. It’s a great spot for family picnics and walks along the craggy beach, exploring tidal pools and seeking out shells and sea glass. A public fishing pier consists of a long wooden walkway from the blacktop path out to a main deck 13 feet above the water. Leashed dogs are permitted in the park. Movies are shown on the lawn in the summer.
Burlington, VT
ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center
One College Street 802-864-1848This maritime-oriented science museum is located right on the shore of Lake Champlain, and its expertise is to study and enjoy the natural history of the Lake Champlain Basin. A visit to ECHO is a wonderful science and ecology expedition for children and families. Lots of expert work has gone into creating permanent exhibits about the ecology, wildlife, plant life, and Native human inhabitants of the region. Plenty of changing exhibits and fun seasonal activities to encourage kids to get involved in this fascinating maritime world. ECHO is open year round, 10am - 5pm daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve & Day.
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