Uncover Nine Family Friendly Weekend Getaways

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

Are you looking for a family friendly weekend getaway from New York City? Allen Batista Travel, Inc. has compiled a list of the nine weekend getaways, each offering a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and family-friendly fun.
The short weekend getaways ranging from coastal retreats to scenic mountain escapes are just a couple of miles from New York City. Here are our recommendations.

The Pocono Mountains, Pennsylvania

The Poconos is a popular weekend getaway for families – hiking, biking, ziplining and horseback riding. There is no shortage of family friendly activities.

Families can also enjoy the waterpark at Kalahari Resorts or sightsee the natural beauty of Bushkill Falls aka Pennsylvania's Niagara Falls.

Distance from NYC: Approximately two hours and 120 miles by car.

Newport, Rhode Island

Step back in time with your weekend visit to Newport. Families often explore historic mansions, picturesque harbors, and stunning coastal views there. History buffs often explore the magnificent homes that line Bellevue Avenue.

Cliff Walk is a popular 3.5 mile public walk for nature lovers to hike or stroll along the path with breathtaking views of the ocean and lighthouses. First Beach or Second Beach are great for swimming, tanning, and making sandcastles and Narragansett Bay is for a leisurely sailboat cruise.

Distance from NYC: Approximately three hours 30 minutes and 175 miles by car.

Mystic, Connecticut

​Mystic Connecticut is a charming coastal town with a nautical theme. Originally a major hub for shipbuilding, Mystic is now home to the Mystic Seaport Museum, a reconstruction of a 19th-century nautical community. The museum is a perfect place to discover the town's maritime history, tour historic ships, and watch shipbuilding demonstrations.

You can also go shopping in Olde Mistick Village, a quaint neighborhood with stores and eateries, see the wonders of the ocean at the Mystic Aquarium, or take a boat ride on the Mystic River.

Distance from NYC: Approximately two hours 30 minutes and 130 miles by car.

Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley offers a wealth of outdoor activities, as well as stunning landscapes and quaint towns. Families can explore historic locations such as the Kykuit, the Rockefeller estate, or Storm King Art Center, a sprawling outdoor sculpture park.

The Hudson Valley Wine Trail is a popular destination to taste regional wines and farm-fresh food. Foodie families can visit farm stands, orchards, and sample local specialties at wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

Distance from NYC: Approximately two hours and 100 miles by car.

The Catskills, New York

The Catskills provide an ideal weekend escape for families offering outdoor activities - swimming, motorcycling, hiking, and more.

During the winter, The Catskills is home to several ski and snowboard resorts. Kids will love visiting a working farm or touring historic locations like museums and the Mohonk Mountain Preserve. There are several places for farm to table dining options featuring fresh local foods.

Distance from NYC: Approximately two hours and 100 miles by car.

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The Berkshires is tucked away in western Massachusetts' undulating hills, providing a peaceful haven from the bustle of a big metropolis like NYC.

Discover quaint communities such as Lenox and Stockbridge, go to renowned museums like MASS MoCA and the Norman Rockwell Museum, or just take a leisurely stroll or drive to appreciate the area's natural splendor.

Distance from NYC: Approximately three hours and 180 miles by car.

Block Island, Rhode Island

Block Island, a remote haven, is only reachable by ferry. Families can explore the island’s beauty by biking, kayaking, or swimming during the day. Popular sites such as Mohegan Bluffs and the Southeast Lighthouse offer stunning views.

Kids can explore lighthouses, bike along scenic trails, or visit the island's historical society museum. Block Island has a car-free place in the Old Town area, making it safe for you and your kids to wander around. Bicycle rentals are available for transportation, which contributes to the laid-back atmosphere.

Distance from NYC: Approximately three hours 30 minutes, including the ferry ride.

Lake George, New York

Lake George is a popular destination for families who love water activities such as swimming, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and boating. The Adirondack Park, which offers chances for bicycling, hiking, and camping, encircles the region.

In the vicinity are water parks and amusement parks as well. There are numerous economical lodges and resorts with stunning scenery that offer the best opportunities to rejuvenate for the next adventure.

Distance from NYC: Approximately three hours and 30 minutes by car.

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May offers a wide range of activities – lounging on the beach, exploring historic lighthouses, or embarking on a dolphin-watching cruise – for family and friends. The destination is renowned for its vividly colored gingerbread-trimmed Victorian architecture, which can be explored by renting bikes or going on a trolley ride.

When taking a whale-watching excursion, Cape May is an excellent place to see dolphins or whales. The adjacent Cape May Point State Park offers hiking, fishing, and kayaking as well. The town has many renowned seafood restaurants.

Distance from NYC: Approximately three hours and 150 miles by car.

Conclusion

​From coastal retreats to mountain getaways, these quick weekend destinations from NYC offer the perfect escape for families looking to reconnect and create lasting memories together.

​Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to plan your short family weekend getaway.