Family activities in New England and attractions for kids

New England > All New England > Families and Kids > 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.

Curious Kids - Mount Washington Auto Road - Gorham, NH

Mt. Washington Auto Road

Route 16, Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988

Take the family and stand above it all

For over 150 years, families and friends have enjoyed visiting the legendary Mt. Washington Auto Road, a one-of-a-kind experience offering ever-changing weather extremes and panoramic views as you climb to the highest peak in the Northeast.
Choose to drive your own car or take a comfortable, 2 or 3-hour guided tour led by one of our accomplished and dedicated guides. Adventure can be found all the way up to the 6,288-foot peak where, on a clear day, visitors can discover panoramic views spanning the mountains and valleys of New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont, and north into Canada! Rain or shine, and included with your Auto Road ticket, the entire family will love the new interactive museum “Extreme Mount Washington” located on the summit, brought to you by the Mount Washington Observatory.

Vermont Teddy Bear Factory & Bear Shop

6655 Shelburne Road Shelburne, VT, 05482 Phone: 802-985-3001 Toll-Free: 800-829-2327

Family Fun at Vermont Teddy Bear!

A visit to Vermont Teddy Bear is the perfect family outing! Pack a lunch, come meet Ted E. Bear and take a factory tour given by one of our knowledgeable Bear Ambassadors. During the tour, you’ll see how our Bears are made and kids get to decode a secret Bear message. After your tour, stop in our Bear Shop and let the kids create their own Bear. Then relax outside with a well-earned lunch break at one of our picnic tables and toss a Frisbee around to finish off the perfect family day. All tour and store information is available on our website.

America's Stonehenge

105 Haverhill Road Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-8300

Let 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.

Morningside Flight Park

357 Morningside Lane Charlestown, NH, 03603 Phone: 603-542-4416

Flight fun for every age and skill level

This is family fun on a grand scale with activities and excitement to create memories that last a lifetime. This amazing flight park in the Connecticut River Valley in New Hampshire is your launching point to enjoy scenery you can see from the ground or high up on hang gliders, paragliders and zip lines. Bring the gang and stay in a variety of camping options from small cabins and platform tents to your own plot of ground with restrooms and shower facilities available to all campers. Get into a game of laser tag, kayak together, go fishing or swimming, light up a barbecue and have a picnic. Great for day long adventures or weekend getaways, birthday parties and family events.

Come see where Vermont Teddy Bears are created! Daily Factory Tours - Click for Times and Ticketing.

Water Country

2300 Lafayette Road Portsmouth, NH, 03801 Phone: 603-427-1111

Something for everyone in the family

Here are 26 acres of affordable, family-friendly attractions and rides, great dining, places to host a party or event, or just hang out. Going on 30 years offering the cleanest, safest, friendliest and largest water park in New England, this landmark has what it takes for all day, summer long fun. Youngsters can conquer their first water slide, teens can take on more adventure, and the whole family can enjoy rides and slides, rivers and pools and exciting events. There’s lots of wet action on tubes and mats as you plunge through curves and tunnels and racing rapids or roll slowly on a raft. Parents and groups will enjoy the private picnic and cabana areas just made for family activities.

Family Reunion on the Stephen Taber - Maine Windjammers - Camden, ME

Maine Windjammer Association

Sailing from Ports in Rockland and Camden, ME, 04843 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-807-9463

Journey aboard a schooner is treasured time for families

Imagine all the non-electronic-gadget things you can do as a family aboard one of the historic schooners of the Maine Windjammer Association. Go for a swim or fish off the deck, explore a quaint seaside village, learn about navigation from the crew (or take a turn steering the vessel), play board games together by lantern-light, chow down on a lobster feast by a fire on a secluded beach, share stories and songs by starlight. (Or maybe you all will just want to snuggle up with a good book.) And the things you will sail past, from lighthouses and rocky islands to seal pups and the occasional whale! Some cruises are designed especially for grandparents and grandkids with kid-friendly activities.

Bishop's Orchards

1355 Boston Post Road Guilford, CT, 06437 Phone: 203-453-2338

Find fantastic family fun and support your local farmer

Almost nothing beats family fun like picking up fresh produce right from the farm. Open year-round, Bishop's Orchards continues a 144-year tradition on 313 acres where you can pick strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, peaches, pears, apples, and pumpkins. The farm market has grown from a roadside stand to a wholesale supplier of fruits and vegetables to New York and New England. It’s also a thriving retail market, fully operating bakery, specialty food grocer and most recently, a winery. The kids will love the llamas, alpacas and goats and the G-Scale train with cars from the NYNH Railroad circling overhead. Get your farm fresh produce and an authentic farm experience at the same time. Look for the "big red apple" known far and wide.

Photo for Family Activities 500x250 - Beanstalk Adventures - Reading, MA

Beanstalk Adventure Ropes Course

50 Walkers Brook Drive Reading, MA, 01867 Phone: 781-942-9816

Play together on this one-of-a-kind sky ropes course

Here’s a great indoor physical activity for the whole family at Jordan’s BeanStalk™ Adventure Ropes Course in Reading Massachusetts. Enjoy the challenge of traveling from one activity to the next testing your agility and balance. Climb to 12 or 24 feet and make your way across the sky ropes course onto zig zag beams, crisscross angled rope ladders, and then hold on to spaghetti hand lines. Walk the plank at 24 feet then travel out on a 6 inch standalone beam, pivot and return. You’ll find two levels of challenging ropes course, 30 exciting activities and for young adventurers, there’s BeanSprout™, a specially designed course for children 2-7. Adventurers must be 48" tall or 42" if accompanied by a chaperone.

The Essex Steam Train & Riverboat -Train & Boat Excursions through the Connecticut River Valley - with all the bells & whistles!

Your ATV Adventure Starts Here in Northern New Hampshire's Androscoggin Valley! Click Here to Escape!

Ocean Beach Park

1225 Ocean Avenue New London, CT, 06320 Phone: 860-447-3031 Toll-Free: 800-510-7263

Everyone can be a kid at oceanside amusement park, beach

Ocean Beach Park is for kids of all ages – including Mom and Dad. Little tykes will love the tiny cars and trains in the amusement park and the playground – and sprayground! Older kids will want to hang out on the sugar-sand beach, in the Olympic-size pool, on the triple waterslides or in the arcade. And everyone will want to visit the mini-golf course (you can beat that windmill), grab a cone on the boardwalk or take a nature walk overlooking an estuary. Family dining options include full meals at the Sandbar Cafe overlooking the ocean, faster food in the Boardwalk Galley and a picnic area. Entertainment runs from DJs and bands to magic shows and beach-blanket movies.

Ben & Jerry's Factory Tours

1281 Waterbury Stowe Road Waterbury, VT Phone: 866-258-6877

Chill out with a fun & friendly ice cream factory tour

Here’s a scoop: The coolest family activity in Vermont is the Ben & Jerry’s Factory Tour. On the 30-minute guided tour, you’ll watch a short video in the Cow Over the Moon Theater, see the production room where the ice cream magic happens and sample the newest frozen taste treat at the Scoop Shop. Plus, you can visit the Flavor Graveyard, where 35 flavors have been permanently de-pinted (R.I.P. Wavy Gravy and Ethan Almond). There’s a play area for kids, and strollers are welcome. Feeling particularly adventurous? Start with a 30-minute Umiak snowshoe tour in the woodlands behind the factory! And don’t forget to bring home a quirky souvenir from the gift shop. Tickets are timed, so no waiting in long lines.

Stepping Stones Museum for Children

Mathews Park - 303 West Avenue Norwalk, CT, 06850 Phone: 203-899-0606

A "wow" experience for all ages, even adults!

Stepping Stones Museum for Children in Norwalk, Conn., our mission is to inspires lifelong learning. We do that with fun and fascinating exhibits and outdoor spaces. Wander about our garden and listen while whimsical sculptures use sun, wind, and water power to produce musical sounds. In our Energy Lab kids are mesmerized by a raceway powered by water, or when balls are whisked away down a wind-powered maze. They'll learn about evaporation first hand by painting with brush and water, and then seeing their paintings disappear. We have exhibits designed for all ages ten and under, including toddlers and infants. Adults will be fascinated, too.

Battleship Cove

5 Water Street Fall River, MA, 02721 Phone: 508-678-1100 Toll-Free: 800-533-3194

An exciting family adventure in America’s naval history

America’s naval history inspires the whole family at this world class heritage museum in Fall River. Explore the world's largest collection of US naval ships including the mighty USS Massachusetts, the destroyer USS Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr., and PT Boats used in the South Pacific. The sheer size and impression these ships and their stories leave is overwhelming. There’s the state-of-the-art special effects Pearl Harbor Experience, the only outdoor multimedia reenactment anywhere. Scouts and youth groups can participate in a year round maritime camping program, overnights, and family nautical nights with affordable camping on site. Whether a casual visitor, history buff, student, teacher or scout leader, everyone learns. Special exhibits honor our men and women in uniform then and now.

Whitewater Crew 500x250 - Crab Apple Whitewater - Charlemont, MA

Crab Apple Whitewater (MA)

Route 2 Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 800-553-7238

Family Owned and Operated Whitewater Rafting Outfitter in the Berkshires

Crab Apple ran the first ever raft trips in 1989 on the dam controlled Deerfield River. The excitement continues on a wide range of full day and half day trips. Kids 8 and up can enjoy rafting trips on mild Class 1-3 rapids, teens on more aggressive Class 3-4 rapids, and those age 5 and up will have a great fun time in guided rafts or inflatable kayaks on mild whitewater. The guides are great with kids of all ages and help rafters explore the Deerfield sharing information about local history, wildlife and hydrology along the way. There’s great food, hospitality and service, the best equipment, and riverside base camps with the comforts and convenience to make your rafting adventure one that you’ll never forget.

Canobie Lake Park

85 North Policy Street Salem, NH, 03079 Phone: 603-893-3560

Family fun, services and accommodations make this a grand day out

The whole family is well cared for at this historic fun park just 30 miles north of Boston. Start with 85 rides, indoor-outdoor games and an arcade, plus live entertainment on two stages and the Dance Hall Theater, special events and a dedicated Kiddieland area, and everyone will get involved and smile. A wide variety of delicious food is yours and available around the park in 20 great spots, while plenty of tax free shopping at numerous gift shops lets you fill up on souvenirs, keepsakes and more. There’s an ATM, lockers, available services for expectant mothers, and accommodations for all ages and physical abilities. Bring your own or rent a wheelchair, electric scooter stroller or double seat stroller.

Plimoth Plantation

137 Warren Avenue Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-746-1622

A compelling approach to history; a memorable visitor experience.

Plimoth Plantation is a world-class living history museum overlooking Cape Cod Bay. This immersive museum features costumed interpreters and modern day artisans throughout our award-winning exhibits, including the 17th Century English Village, Wampanoag Homesite, Plimoth Grist Mill and Mayflower II docked in picturesque Plymouth Harbor. Plimoth Plantation's hands-on, entertaining brand of living history is what has earned the museum it's reputation for delivering powerful personal experiences to guests of all ages from all over the world.

Please allow at least 3 hours to visit to Plimoth Plantation and about 45 minutes for Mayflower II.

Story Land

850 New Hampshire Route 16 Glen, NH, 03838 Phone: 603-383-4186

Every day is an unforgettable adventure!

Write your own tale of adventure with a day at Story Land! Every moment is an exciting chapter in your book of fun family memories. You’ll find your favorite Nursery Rhymes come to life along the pathways of Story Land. Experience an eye-popping kid friendly magic show at Loopy Lab and dance at Duke the Dragon’s Dance Party. Make a splash on the Bamboo Chutes. Meet real-life storybook characters. Scream aboard our thrilling roller coaster, Roar-O-Saurus. Have dinner with Humpty Dumpty and friends or sit with Cinderella at Tea Time. Uncover prehistoric fossils and enjoy an exciting array of games, shows and rides! There’s even a free kennel for your pooch. Then snuggle up together in one of the great family lodgings nestled among the scenic White Mountains.

Family Biking - Lakes Region Association - New Hampshire

Lakes Region Tourism Association

61 Laconia Road Tilton, NH, 03276 Phone: 603-286-8008 Toll-Free: 800-605-2537

Family fun the focus of attractions in the lakes region

Families will find so much to do in central New Hampshire in the winter that they will need an itinerary. The Lakes Region Tourism Association can help, offering suggestions on all sorts of family activities, from skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing down one of the region’s many slopes to ice skating, sleigh-riding across a snow-filled field, a museum, doing a little boutique or outlet shopping (tax-free!), taking in a craft show or scarfing down breakfast at a down-home pancake house round out fun winter outings. The holidays bring special treats, from Santa Express trains to festivals celebrating the lights of the season.

Berkshire East Mountain Resort

66 Thunder Mountain Road Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 413-339-6617

For families it's easy - bring your kids and play!

There’s lots to do. Where do you want to start? Depends on the season. How about skiing or boarding or tubing, zip lines, white water rafting, or downhill mountain biking? Come check out and ride North America’s longest mountain coaster! We offer lessons and equipment rentals. We have a great family friendly place to stay right here while you’re enjoying all of the activities, the Crazy Horse Bar and Grill for lunch or dinner, a friendly staff and a commitment to being the best at whatever we do. We are just 2 hours from Boston, three hours from New York City.

Harvard Peabody Museum of Natural History Kronosaurus Cambridge MA

Harvard Museum of Natural History

26 Oxford Street Cambridge, MA, 02138 Phone: 617-495-3045

A memorable & amazing journey into our world's history

For families, it’s hard to beat the 16 galleries in this museum displaying 500 taxidermy animals -- full-size elephant, rhino, hippo, tiger, bison, even a 15-foot giraffe -- not to mention huge whale skeletons. Don’t miss the skull of one of the first Triceratops ever discovered and the world’s only mounted skeleton of the 42 ft.-long Kronosaurus. Explore a timeline of Earth’s history, and admire 3,000 rare minerals and gemstones. Touch a meteorite from outer space. New and changing multi-media exhibitions showcase cutting-edge research. The museum is an easy 8-minute walk across the historic Harvard campus from Harvard Square with its popular shops and restaurants and MBTA station. The museum is connected to Harvard’s Peabody Museum, and one admission fee covers both museums.

Bruce Museum

One Museum Drive Greenwich, CT, 06830 Phone: 203-869-0376

Dinosaur tracks and mechanical banks: lots for kids to see at this lively museum

What is there for kids to see at the Bruce Museum, where art collections and science collections sit side by side? How about Connecticut River dinosaur-track fossils? Meteorites? A collection of bird nests and eggs? Or maybe your young ones will want to see some of the 3,000 insect specimens in the museum, or some of the 2,000 shells. On the history side, there are old-fashioned toys and mechanical banks. In the mineral collection, there’s an explanation of how they play a role in smartphones. Over at the museum’s Seaside Center, there’s a variety of family activities as well as a marine tank where kids can get a feel for some of the creatures that live in the region’s waterways.

New Hampshire Campground Owners Association

Family fun outdoors (and in) at wide variety of N.H. campgrounds

Whether your family likes to fish, frolic in the surf, climb mountains, visit museums, shop on friendly Main Streets or just roast marshmallows around the fire, New Hampshire has the perfect campground for you. Explore the state’s great outdoors from your tent, RV, cabin – or rental unit – with a fall foliage hike, rock climbing, beach retreat or, in the winter, a snowmobile ride or ski run. Visit our website for a guide to a huge variety of campgrounds, from the forested north (where you can see bald eagles) to the villages and countryside of the state’s center to its 18 miles of Atlantic coastline. Many campgrounds feature areas for family play, from horseshoes and bocce to tennis, golf and hiking.

Seekonk Grand Prix

1098 Fall River Avenue Seekonk, MA, 02771 Phone: 508-336-8307

Get the whole family behind the wheel

Here’s a great day out for the entire family – go karts on tracks designed with everyone in mind. The longest Family Track in New England gets you revved up through speedy straight-aways, hairpin curves and tunnels and two of you can now ride the new two-seater go-karts. The Slick Track will test your mettle, and there’s a new Rookie Track for the youngest and Kiddy Track and Beginner Track as they grow - so there’s never a time not to be driving your own cart. Bumper cars and boats stretch the envelope of fun and you can take on the family in a friendly game of mini golf. Rain or shine enjoy more than 60 of your favorite arcade games.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston

598 Assembly Row Somerville, MA, 02145 Phone: 617-702-5593 Toll-Free: 866-228-6439

Legoland and families are a perfect fit

Families love LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston with its 4D cinema, Kingdom Quest laser ride, Merlin’s Apprentice, and the fabulous LEGO City Play Zone. You’ll find a spacious family restroom, full baby changing facilities, plus wheelchair and stroller accessibility throughout. Have your child make up a story about their LEGO® creations. Challenge them to a timed build – give them a set number of bricks and a time limit and see what they create. Have fun playing a brick building game together then display your creations on your own colorful LEGO podium or share a photo on LEGOLAND Discovery Center Boston’s Facebook page. There’s a delicious coffee shop and the amazing LEGO Retail Shop with the latest LEGO® products plus exclusive limited edition items.

Great Glen Trails

Route 16 at Pinkham Notch Gorham, NH, 03581 Phone: 603-466-3988

Outdoor Fun That's Just Right for The Entire Family

At the Great Glen Trails in Pinkham Notch, N.H., we offer adventures in all shapes and sizes. During the spring and summer you can set out on a hike, run, or bike ride on any of our scenic trails through New Hampshire's White Mountains. Or join us for a guided bird watching tour or a paddling trip on the Androscoggin River. In winter, the cross country skiing and snowshoeing is absolutely glorious. Our trail system of easy and rolling terrain allows skiers of all abilities to find the right level of activity, challenge, and fun. The trails are groomed with both double tracks and a skating lane and run through the forests at the base of Mt. Washington. And the SnowCoach makes everything accessible to all, with or without skis. It's the natural vacation plan for you and your family.

Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks

1168 County Road Montpelier, VT, 05602 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-242-2740

The Morse family has some maple magic for your family

Here is a farm with 200 years experience the whole family will enjoy with scenic views, four season fun, and lots of maple syrup, jams, jellies and other goodies to discover. The Morse’s do it right in so many ways whether its showing you their maple syrup process or presenting displays and artifacts and a humorous educational video in the Woodshed Theater. There are monthly events. a nature trail, a country store filled with local crafts and gifts, and an outdoor farm life museum. The Ski Touring Center has cross country and snowshoe trails for sliding, snowmobiling and skating. Once sugarin’ time comes around in March, take part in their annual maple tastings. And don’t miss the sugar on snow.

Argia Mystic Cruises

12 Steamboat Wharf Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-536-0416

Haul 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. Snacks and lemonade are provided.

May 1st through late mid-October, choose a day or sunset cruise aboard ARGIA!

Plymouth 400

134 Court Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone:

Bring America’s Founding Story to Life for Your Kids

Children learn well through visuals and action. Re-visit one of the opening chapters of the founding of America in Plymouth, Massachusetts, when you take part in activities of Plymouth 400 – the celebration that peaks in 2020 with the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the Mayflower at Plymouth Rock. The 400th anniversary of the Pilgrims’ arrival will be celebrated through 2021 with exhibits, festivals, arts and educational events. A traveling exhibit about the Native Wampanoag people, who greeted the English and helped save their lives in their first winter, is now underway. Coming up are Embarkation and Youth Festivals, Sunrise and Thanksgiving celebrations, and many other opportunities for Americans to re-learn and appreciate the idealism and physical grit of a legendary band of our founders. Photo Credit: Katie McLaughlin

York's Wild Kingdom

Route 1 - Animal Park Road York Beach, ME, 03909 Phone: 207-363-4911

The fun is really wild at this Maine kingdom

African lions and Bengal tigers and, oh my, so much more for families to see and do at York’s Wild Kingdom, where kids and parents come to play. Observe animals from A (alligators) to Z (zebras) in beautifully landscaped exhibits, walk into the colorful Butterfly Kingdom, feed the ducks or take a paddle boat ride in the lake, pet African pygmy goats, feed a deer – and that’s just the animals! You can also ride a Ferris wheel, carousel or bumper boat, scream in a haunted house, play a round on the mini-golf course, get your swing down in a batting cage and sharpen your arcade-game skills. Bring a picnic lunch or feast from our snack bars, ice cream and fried dough stands.

Destination Plymouth

Visitor Center - 134 Court Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-7533 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620

History is just the beginning!

Bring the family to Plymouth, MA for some unforgettable fun! Adults and children will enjoy their visit to Plymouth with a wide variety of activities on land and water. The Atlantic Ocean is a playground, and trips such as whale watches, lobster excursions and pirate adventures have proven popular with visitors. Beaches and parks offer families a place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors. Edaville USA is open year-round and features a restored narrow gauge train ride through cranberry bogs. Plimoth Plantation provides a living history museum depicting life in Plymouth in 1627. Please call 800.USA.1620, or visit our website to learn more about these activities and others to prepare for your trip to Plymouth.

Wamesit Lanes Family Entertainment Center

434 Main Street Tewksbury, MA, 01876 Phone: 978-349-0000

Great family fun place in Tewksbury

This family owned destination in Tewksbury offers the area’s best bowling, restaurant, golf simulator, and event space for any occasion. A fun, positive, family-friendly destination, it offers high quality, year-round entertainment for kids to seniors and for casual and league bowlers. Enjoy luxury candlepin and ten pin lanes with big screens, music videos, sporting events, and comfortable seating areas at each lane. The world class redemption arcade features over 60 of the most popular games in the industry and an upscale prize redemption center with electronics, games, novelty items, stuffed animals and more. Celebrations of every kind are welcome for groups of 10 to 400. There’s great food at the Firewater tavern plus weeknight and weekend specials. Check it out.

Southwick’s Zoo

2 Southwick Street Mendon, MA, 01756 Phone: 800-258-9182

Take the family into the wild right near home

New England’s largest zoo is opening April 21 for the 2014 season with an all new prairie dog digs, two toed sloths and cheetahs. Learn about your favorite animals at the Earth Discovery Center. You’ll find 115 species of animals large and small on foot, from the Woodlands Express train ride or high above on the Skyfari Sky Ride, Meet elk, native birds, painted turtles and toads, Step into the 35 acre deer forest, ride over the playful chimpanzees, stately camels, scary alligators, colorful zebra and ostrich. Enjoy a day’s worth of shows, animal encounters, a petting zoo, parakeet aviary and animal exhibits to take your breath away with big cats, white rhino, snakes, dragons, and WATCH OUT - the popular Madagascar Hissing Cockroach. Always free parking and handicap accessible.

Greater Merrimack Valley

61 Market Street, Unit 1C Lowell, MA, 01852 Phone: 978-459-6150

The family fun never ends in the Greater Merrimack Valley

The tough choice in the Greater Merrimack Valley is what to do next. Everything in a travel destination for the family is here. The Children’s Discovery Museum and the Science Discovery Museum offer exhibits, programs and educational, hands-on activities for everyone. Plan ahead and enjoy the many special event days in the valley’s quaint towns filled with historic homes, buildings and sites to explore. Your pet is welcome in many of the lodgings, parks and attractions throughout the valley. Skiing white slopes, hiking worn trails, biking scenic roads, and fishing, canoeing, white water rafting on the region’s waterways ought to keep everyone happy. So will the strawberry picking, hayrides and fun to be found on local farms, orchards and vineyards.

Photo for Family Activities 500x250 - IT Adventures - New Haven, CT

IT Adventure Ropes Course

40 Sargent Drive New Haven, CT, 06511 Phone: 203-812-9981

Play nice together on a one of a kind indoor ropes course

Here’s the ultimate in indoor physical activity for the whole family - Jordan’s IT Adventure Ropes Course, the largest such activity in the world. Enjoy an incredible adventure on two 60’ high ropes courses. Climb and zip and jump and walk amidst swinging beams, angled rope ladders, cargo nets, bridges, and planks. Watch 1000 water nozzles dance to lights, stereo sounds and music. Soar across the longest Sky Rail zip lines ever made high above the restaurants and Waltzing Water show - and remember to keep your feet up, you may get wet! Other activities have you free-falling 50' down to the ground, crossing the 200’ catwalk, and climbing wobbly poles and vertical walls that only take you higher with each step. Stop in for some kid-friendly family fun, ages 2 and up.

CoCo Key Water Park Boston North Shore

50 Ferncroft Road Danvers, MA, 01923 Phone: 978-777-2500

Wet, whacky, wild family fun!

Make a splash with the family at the largest indoor water park in Massachusetts. A tropical indoor paradise where it’s always 84 degrees and open every day for every kid of every age. There are water slides, a lazy river, a splash pad and dip-in-the- theater arcade, private cozy cabanas, and lots more. Hold one of a kind birthday parties, group swims, or even buy out the whole park for a day. Then enjoy a night at the Doubletree Hotel Boston North Shore adjacent to the Park with luxurious bedding and jumbo pillows, flat screen television, on-demand movies and premium cable channels. Look for Coco Key Discounts and packages that include overnight accommodations, water resort access, and breakfast in the family-friendly TradeWinds Restaurant.

Funtown Splashtown USA

Route 1 Saco, ME, 04072 Phone: 207-284-5139

For family fun, together and one by one

Whether you’re going to do family things all together or the independent little rascals always want to ride and romp by themselves, Funtown Splashtown USA presents plenty of opportunities. There is not one but two roller coasters to zoom around on, with your choice of rattling wood or smooth steel. The youngsters can enjoy such safe attractions as the Merry-Go-Round, the Classic Carousel and the Balloon Race, a mini-Ferris Wheel. With parents in the back and kids in the front, the Barney Oldfield Roadsters take you around a track. When it comes to fun on wheels, the action level is up to you - it can be as mild as Bumper Cars or Boats, or as adventuresome as the gas-powered Grand Prix Racers.

Mystic Aquarium

55 Coogan Boulevard Mystic, CT, 06355 Phone: 860-572-5955

A must SEA for every family

A destination for kids of all ages, Mystic Aquarium provides families the opportunity to learn about their ocean planet all while having fun! With thousands of marine animals including beluga whales, penguins, seals, fish, frogs, alligators and more – Mom, Dad and each of the kids will have their own Aquarium favorite. Hands-on exhibits welcome curious children to touch sharks, stingrays and even some exotic reptiles. Daily complimentary sea lion shows provide a truly unique opportunity to see these fascinating animals up-close and in action. You can even take in a 3-D show at one of our two theaters. And, come face to claw with animatronic dinosaurs in ‘Jurassic Giants’ – that is, if you dare! Plus, special events and activities all year long make the Aquarium a destination worth revisiting often. SEA more at MysticAquarium.org.

Chuckster's Family Fun Park

Two Great Locations Chichester and Hooksett, NH Phone: 603-798-3555

True 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, 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. Over at Chuckster’s Family Fun Park in Chichester, mini golf is one of more than a dozen unique attractions, including a go-kart speedway, bumper boats, 27-foot climbing wall, and an Aerial Adventure where you go from tree to tree on everything from a horse saddle to a snowboard. Fun games include Balloon Blast, Shoot-N-Shower (foul-shot loser gets a watery surprise), Shoot Four (basketball version of Connect Four) and Light Frenzy. Need recharging? There’s ice cream, pizza, chicken wings and more.

Save The Bay

Multiple Centers & Dock Locations Providence, Newport, Westerly, RI and Fall River, MA Phone: 401-272-3540

Enjoy great family fun and help protect an environmental treasure

Get the whole family involved in protecting, restoring and learning about one of the earth’s most diverse ecosystems. Save The Bay offers several hands-on experiences for every age. Kids in grades K-12 can explore the more than 400 miles of unparalleled natural beauty along the shoreline, in and on the water during Save The Bay’s week-long summer BayCamps. The ocean-front Exploration Center and Aquarium at Easton’s Beach in Newport is open year-round, offering several touch tanks and close-up views of hundreds of creatures. Participate in a beach cleanup – keeping trash and litter out of local waters. In the winter, climb aboard a vessel to see harbor seals in their natural habitat.
Boat tours depart from Newport, Westerly, Providence RI and Fall River, MA.

Kripalu Hula Hoop Kids 500x250 - Berkshires Visitors Bureau - Photo Credit Ogden Gigli

The Berkshires of Western MA

Renew your family's fun this summer in the Berkshires

With rolling mountains and forests, winding rivers and sparkling lakes, and scenic back roads that pass by fields and farmland, the stage is set for the world-class music, art, and theater that are the main attraction of summer in the Berkshires and the ideal location to bring the whole family. Locally grown foods are fresh and plentiful this time of year, the ingredients for the creative culinary treats that await you at breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a picnic under the stars. A great way to spend time as a family is to get outside and the Berkshires has what you are looking for, from mountains and forests filled with hiking trails, swimming and kayaking fun plus a variety of aerial adventure parks. Pack up the family and get in some quality time this summer in the Berkshires.

Harriet Beecher Stowe Center

77 Forest Street Hartford, CT, 06105 Phone: 860-522-9258

Families learn together about issues of the 19th and 21st centuries

Take advantage of the Family Tour option at the Harriet Beecher Stowe Center, where visitors learn how the author’s words changed the world – and will be inspired to do the same. At the center, which celebrates the work and ideas of the abolitionist author of “Uncle Tom’s Cabin,” storytelling, photographs and historic letters help connect the past to the present. The Family Tour is for children 5 to 12 accompanied by an adult. Children and adults alike have praised the interactive nature of the tour, where conversations about social justice and issues of Stowe’s day, and of ours, are as important as the exhibits and the home’s beautifully preserved interiors. Outside, Victorian-era gardens are made to be strolled through and enjoyed.

Worcester Art Museum

55 Salisbury Street Worcester, MA, 01609 Phone: 508-799-4406

Exciting family fun and learning at this central Massachusetts museum

For family adventure, fun and education it’s hard to beat this amazing museum. With exciting interactive programs, events and more for every age, the WAM offers a look into the extraordinary breadth of human creativity and showcases the world’s art treasures from ancient times to modern days. You’ll discover paintings by Cassatt, Gauguin, Goya, Monet, Sargent, and Homer; floor mosaics from the ancient city of Antioch; and stand face to visor with knights in armor. Kids will love getting creative in Helmutt’s Drop-in Studio. Take a guided tour or a live drawing class. Enjoy lunch at the Museum Café, and shop for unique gifts and mementos. WAM is considered one of the finest mid-sized museums in the country. For exhibitions and program schedules, follow our link above to our website.

Little Harbor Boathouse Kayaks Marblehead MA

Little Harbor Boathouse Kayak - SUP - Fish

40 Doaks Lane Marblehead, MA, 01945 Phone: 781-990-3552

On-Water Recreation for the Whole Family

Bring the whole family for an outing or season of kayaking and standup paddling fun and fitness at Boston's North Shore hidden gem Little Harbor Boathouse! Just 15 miles north of Boston, spend the day at our pristine beach, paddle around Little Harbor Islands and Marblehead Harbor and stroll our historic seaside village shops & cafes. Choose from pedal, paddle and sail Hobie Kayaks (singles & tandems) and Standup Paddle Boards. From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend, Little Harbor Boathouse offers hourly and group and party rentals for up to 50 paddlers. Summer Adventure Program (ages 8-14) runs weekly, Guided Tours and Kayak Fishing Guides by appointment. Helping families and friends have unforgettable on-water experiences is what we’re all about.

Children's Museum of New Hampshire

6 Washington Street Dover, NH, 03820 Phone: 603-742-2002

Exciting and accessible destination for family fun and learning

This wonderful museum offers programs, activities and exhibits for the young and their families in hands-on discovery. The museum is wheelchair accessible and there are multiple sensory accommodations. Children on the autism spectrum and their families can visit during “Exploring Our Way,” an exclusive time on the first Sunday of the month during the school year. The museum also employs child size noise-canceling headphones and social stories for children who might need a quiet spot. Curriculum connections abound through dynamic explorations in science, math, world cultures, the arts and New Hampshire history and ecology. The bountiful museum Shop offers a great selection of games, toys and books in a variety of price ranges. Proceeds from every purchase support program s and operations.

Mount Washington Cog Railway

Off Route 302 Bretton Woods, NH, 03589 Phone: 603-278-5404 Toll-Free: 800-922-8825

Children never forget a trip aboard the Cog Railway

Step off a Cog Railway coach and you'll find yourself atop the highest mountain peak in the Northeast. From late April through November our trains make daily excursions to the summit of New Hampshire's Mount Washington. It's a fascinating three-hour trip your children will never forget. Since the first climb back in 1869, the Cog Railway has always been seen as an engineering marvel, with the steepest track ascent in North America. Your journey will take you through several climate zones to the very top of the mountain, where you'll be able to send post cards that are postmarked from the summit. Visit the Weather Observatory, where meteorologists study some of the country's most severe winter weather. At the bottom, enjoy breakfast or lunch at our Base Station restaurant.

Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

One Railroad Avenue Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-0103 Toll-Free: 800-377-3987

Much more than a Choo Choo

Climb aboard the only steam train and riverboat connection in the U.S! Kids will enjoy riding in the vintage coaches alongside farms, ponds, and boat yards, and spotting swans, ducks, and egrets. The 12-mile, narrated roundtrip brings passengers to Deep River Landing, where the riverboat continues the adventure with a 1¼-hour cruise on the breathtaking Connecticut River. The steam train returns visitors to Essex station. Throughout the year, there are several special events specifically for kids: In April and May, Day Out with Thomas; mid-November through December, Santa Special (daytime) and North Pole Express (nighttime).

Franklin Park Zoo

One Franklin Park Road Boston, MA, 02121 Phone: 617-541-5466

Lions and lemurs and birds - Oh My!

Get your family up close to some of the worlds’ most interesting animals. Boston’s largest park on seventy-two acres brings you lions, giraffes, and zebras in their own special habitats. You’ll find gorillas, lemurs, sloth and other friendly beasts in the Tropical Forest and experience a free-flight bird adventure at the Aussie Aviary, open seasonally. Kids will find programs that are fun and educational, the Zoo Camp, and Snorin’ Roarin’ sleepovers. Plan a birthday party or other event at the unique indoor and outdoor facilities. The Things Wild Gift Shoppe has souvenir items, toys, games, and apparel and the indoor Giddy-Up Grill and Kalahari Kitchen offer southwestern-themed food for all to enjoy.

Lost River Gorge & Boulder Caves

1712 Lost River Road -- Route 112W North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8031

Trek 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.

Loon Mountain Resort

60 Loon Mountain Road Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-6281 Toll-Free: 800-229-5666

Outdoor fun, recreation and inspiration in the White Mountains

Pick a season and bring the family to New England’s most-accessible mountain resort destination. In summer and fall, ride New Hampshire’s longest gondola skyride to the 2,733-foot summit for breathtaking views of the White Mountains and great food at the Summit Café. Explore glacial caves and walk a scenic nature trail. At the mountain’s base, ride a zipline across the Pemigewasset River, scale a rock wall, navigate the LogJam Maze, or climb a 30-foot-tall spider web. Bunyan’s Bouncin’ Backyard has a bounce house. In winter, big mountain skiing and snowboarding features 2,100 feet of vertical with three peaks of terrain for all abilities – including an award-winning progression of terrain parks and New Hampshire’s only Superpipe. There’s also snow tubing, snowshoeing, cross country skiing.

Pilgrim Belle Cruises

Mayflower II, State Pier, 77 Water Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-3434

Plymouth by paddle wheeler – the calm, the stories

Being by the water makes being on the water all the more inviting and you can be at one of the most important historic American landmarks. Jump on this true paddle wheeler which has no conventional propeller and watch and listen as the big red wheels on the back of the boat propel it like the boats on the Mississippi. Once aboard, you’ll get the perfect introduction to Plymouth. Loaded with history, you’ll learn more about Pilgrims, famous shipwrecks, the role of the commercial fishing and lobster industries, two lighthouses, and Plymouth’s spectacular beaches. Relax amid the calming sound of the paddles as they swish through the water. Then sit back and enjoy those fabulous stories. Spoiler alert: the Pilgrims considered lobster to be “poor man’s food.”

Monkey Trunks

3 Great Locations in New Hampshire and Maine , NH Phone: 603-367-4427

Monkey around in the trees in three New England settings

Discover high excitement in three scenic New England locations. Enjoy zip line tours, aerial adventures, zip trekking and more with the whole family in Chocorua in the White Mountains, Weirs Beach in the Lakes Region and in Saco on the south coast of Maine. Ground schools offer instructions and guidance to ensure that you’ll have a safe and exciting time above the ground. Guided and solo tours allow you to progress at your own pace through different courses, each more challenging than the previous. You’ll find swinging beams, tightropes, rolling logs, hanging tires, and cargo nets to keep you busy. There’s a dual 360 feet zipline and a a 35-foot-high giant swing rock climbing wall. Height and weight restrictions apply.

Connecticut River Museum

67 Main Street, Steamboat Dock Essex, CT, 06426 Phone: 860-767-8269

Inside and out, lots to fascinate and entertain families along our riverbank!

There are so many things to do outside at the family-friendly Connecticut River Museum – winter cruises to see majestic bald eagles, sailing adventures aboard the 1614 replica ship Onrust, canoeing or kayaking on a quiet cove, strolling the harborside grounds, walking to historic Essex Village for lunch – that you might forget to go inside. But don’t! The kids will love to examine the handmade tools used for fishing and hunting in and along the river, old navigation tools, the model train layout set up every fall, the three-story river mural that snakes up and down staircases and the model of the very cool Turtle, the first submarine to be used in combat (during the Revolutionary War).

New Hampshire's Grand North

Come one, come all to the attractions that await in the Grand North

What would strike your family’s fancy? Taking a snowcoach tour to the top of Mount Washington? Snowmobiling or hiking scenic forest trails? Visiting a sugar-house and tasting maple snacks? Cross country skiing or zip-lining between trees? You can experience that and much, much more in New Hampshire’s gorgeous Grand North country, where every day is an adventure. Spend a day at Santa’s Village, snowmobiling or snowboarding at Bretton Woods. Go on a sled dog ride or learn how to ice fish! Or maybe you and the kids just want to chill out in the pool at a lodge, resort or cabin with a fabulous mountain view.

Ice Castles

64 Railroad Street Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: Toll-Free: 888-407-4054

A spectacular frozen fantasy for the young – and young at heart

What kid would not want to play in an ice castle? And the Ice Castles in Lincoln have everything a child – or a child at heart – could fantasize about: ice slides, ice thrones, tunnels to crawl through, frozen fountains and towers. Sometimes there is even an enchanted frozen princess to greet castle guests. And there’s always a spectacular light show at night, turning the ice fortresses blue, red and green. Families are advised to buy tickets ahead to get arrival times (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 a concession stand with hot chocolate and cider. Tickets are guaranteed to sell out each weekend - be sure to buy yours in advance on our website!

Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort

37 Corey Road -- Route 43 Hancock, MA, 01237 Phone: 413-738-5500 Toll-Free: 800-882-8859

Have your own peak experience and bring the kids

Inspiring mountain scenery joins endless sky at the largest ski and snowboard resort in southern New England with 45 trails and 9 lifts. At its base, more family fun in grand and spacious suites and vacation homes that are all non-smoking with master BR and king size bed, flat screen TV, living rooms with queen size sofa beds, fully equipped kitchenettes and an outdoor heated swimming pool. The In Touch spa and exercise room provide personal attention and there is Wi-Fi access throughout the Inn and the village center. Shop then savor great food and beverages at Christiansen’s Tavern and John Harvard’s Brew House. Just a short drive away are Norman Rockwell’s Stockbridge, Williamstown, Bennington, VT, and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

1000 Elmwood Avenue Providence, RI, 02907 Phone: 401-785-3510

Fun and Fascination for Everyone in the Family

Roger Williams Park Zoo provides visitors the opportunity to see animals from all over the globe – some over a million years old. Naturalistic surroundings are home to more than 100 species of animals including a Komodo dragon, as well as zebra’s, red pandas, African elephants, Masai giraffes, snow leopards, bears, anteaters, flamingoes, sloths, alligators, and more! Kids from two to 102 have the opportunity to feed giraffes and harbor seals, as well as an array of farmyard animals. For something slightly out of the ordinary, try our Explore and Soar area offering an exhilarating zip ride, a train excursion through the woodlands, and a camel ride. Coming summer 2018 – an Amazon Rainforest. The Zoo is open year round. For more information and hours, please visit rwpzoo.org.

Conway Scenic Railroad

38 Norcross Circle North Conway, NH, 03860 Phone: 603-356-5251 Toll-Free: 800-232-5251

Ride into the past aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad

Enjoy an old-fashioned family experience that begins with a visit to our 1874 station in the middle of North Conway Village. Children of all ages will be transported back to a simpler time in history, when railroads fueled the economic growth of this country. Ride in vintage coaches, some of which date back to the 1920s, or First Class cars, including an 1898 Pullman Parlor Observation Car. A 3-course luncheon is available on the Valley Trains or as part of the Notch Train’s First Class Package. Have your tickets hand-punched by a real conductor. Children under four ride FREE in Coach on the Valley Trains, and well-behaved dogs are always welcome.

White Mountains Attractions

Visitor’s Center at Exit 32 Off I-93 North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8720 Toll-Free: 800-346-3687

Wonderful scenery; terrific lodging and dining

This vacation, make the White Mountains part of your trip. There's an exciting variety of things to see and do - for the individual and for the family, including the highly diversified man-made and natural attractions that make up this scenic and exciting part of New Hampshire. You can spend the entire day at one of the terrific family attractions; ride a slide, journey back in time or to a mountaintop, discover geological wonders, splash down a waterslide, visit the world of a child's imagination, or see the Old West and the North Pole. The distances between the attractions are short, the roads are scenic, and your vacation will be long on value and fun. To find out more, click on our website, or call us today at 1-800-346-3687.

Clark's Trading Post

110 Daniel Webster Highway (Route 3) Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-8913

A family that knows families and family fun

Five generations of Clarks have been providing the best in family entertainment for 85 years. Five museums on the Victorian Main Street and four Specialty Shops include the most well stocked gift and souvenir shop in the White Mountains. The Bear show gets you up close to North American Black Bears. The Anaconda Escape water raft ride speeds you through 300 feet of twists and turns in total darkness. The White Mountain Central Railroad takes you on an excursion into Wolfman's Territory. Visit the mysterious Tuttle House, 1884 Fire Station, Merlin's Mystical Mansion, the "old Man of the Mountain" climbing tower and exciting Segway tours. Be amazed by the feats of Yandong's Chinese Acrobats, dress up for an antique photo.

Point Lookout

67 Atlantic Highway Northport, ME, 04849 Phone: 207-789-2000

Families love this mid coast vacation destination

There is no end to what families can do at this natural wonderland on Penobscot Bay. Drop your gear in the spacious cabin then strap yourselves in for great indoor/outdoor fun from hiking on the 3.8 miles of bountiful nature trails to swimming at the private beach. Visit the goats and hens on the organic farm year-round. There’s tennis, basketball, kayaking, snowshoeing and nearby ice skating and skiing. The fitness and recreation complex has racquetball and squash courts, billiards, ping pong, basketball, volleyball, an 8-lane bowling center. Have breakfast or lunch at the Copper Pine Café then take off for the day for some sightseeing, shopping, dining and enjoy all the attractions in nearby Camden, Belfast, Rockland and Bar Harbor.

Green Mountain Coffee Visitors Center & Café

1 Rotarian Place Waterbury, VT, 05676 Phone: 802-882-2700 Toll-Free: 877-879-2326

Bring the family for the history, and enjoy some freshly brewed coffee too

A visit to the Green Mountain Coffee Visitor Center & Cafe will prove to be an experience with something for everyone in the family. Part classroom, part historical landmark, this beautiful visitor‘s center is restored in 1875 Victorian Italianate style. An interactive display & video shows how our coffee is grown, harvested & roasted. You’ll find the gift shop full of coffee items, unique gifts and Vermont-made artisan handicrafts inspired by coffee-growing countries. The café offers fresh baked goods, sandwiches and enough delicious coffee to make your day a good one. Each day the coffee experience comes to life from your first sip!

Discover Quincy

Adams National Historical Park Visitor Center - 1250 Hancock Street Quincy, MA, 02169 Phone: 617-471-1700

Families valued by this historic South Shore city

From the home of one of the nation’s first families, the city of Quincy offers your family a variety of activities from which to plan a day outing or a long vacation. Take the trolley trip at Adams National Historical Park to see the home of John and John Quincy Adams, and the nation’s first presidential library, boat over to Boston Harbor Islands National Park, sunbathe at Wollaston Beach (or one of 10 other city beaches), fish from a pier or just relax at one of 52 parks, many with playgrounds, picnic areas and ball fields. Enjoy autumn colors strolling marsh-side and riverside trails. In the winter, go ice skating or try skiing or snow-shoeing at Blue Hills Reservation.

Slater Memorial Museum and Converse Art Gallery

Norwich Free Academy - 108 Crescent Street Norwich, CT, 06360 Phone: 860-887-2506

Family fun and learning in Norwich

Experience fun and learning at this enchanting museum stocked with art and historical artifacts. People and cultures through 35 centuries and five continents are featured here on the campus of Norwich Free Academy in Norwich, CT. Along with art treasures there is a unique gift shop to browse and shop for prints , the work of Connecticut artisans, books, CDs, puzzles, bags and other accessories. Started by a gift from philanthropist William A. Slater more than a century ago, the museum is itself a treasure done in Romanesque Revival style architecture by Stephen C. Earle. You can all enjoy an interpreter-guided tour -- free with admission – as well as permanent and changing exhibits, film screenings, discussions and regularly scheduled events.

Waterville Valley Resort

33 Village Road Waterville Valley, NH, 03215 Phone: 603-468-2553 Toll-Free: 800-468-2553

It’s natural for families to bond, relax at this resort

Relaxation comes naturally to families at Waterville Valley. Maybe it’s the fresh air, the clear night sky. Maybe it’s spacious lodging possibilities, including fully equipped condos for up to eight people and dining options just steps away. Or maybe it’s all the things families can do together, from 100 miles of hiking trails to indoor and outdoor pools, a splash pad, miles of bike trails, jacuzzis and gyms, tennis courts with junior and adult clinics, skateboard and inline skating parks. You can golf on a traditional course or down a mountain on a nine-hole disc course; take a chairlift up a mountain; go rock-climbing or try your luck at croquet in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter.

The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village

1650 Hartford-New London Tpke. (Rt. 85) Oakdale, CT, 06370 Phone: 860-443-4367

Convenient, affordable and dinosaur friendly

Near Mystic Seaport and in the heart of Mystic Country, The Dinosaur Place offers indoor and outdoor fun for everyone. Mascot Monty welcomes you to over 50 acres of wetlands and woodlands. Raptor Bay, a man-made lake, has its own volcano, while dinosaur trails offer touch and learn activities. SplashPad is wet fun and New England’s largest such water park. Kids will love the a”MAZE”asaurus and Monty’s playground featuring SpaceNet’s climbing towers and three-dimensional swinging, vibrating and springing web. Discovery Depot’s indoor activity center lets you hunt for treasures beneath the earth. Nearby, affordable, family-friendly hotels offer discount packages with lodging, attraction tickets and even breakfast included. Check out the new Cooper Creek Mini Golf Course open in 2018 for ages 8+!

Old Sturbridge Village

1 Old Sturbridge Village Road, off Route 20 Sturbridge, MA, 01566 Phone: 508-347-3362 Toll-Free: 800-733-1830

A family place with stories to tell

Families in New England weren’t so different 200 years ago, yet the lives they lived were very different. How they worked and made a living, fed and cared for themselves and each other, raised children and planned for the future. Their story is preserved here in one of America’s largest and most celebrated living history museums with 40 antique homes, buildings and water-powered mills from the 1800’s. You and your family can experience that time again on an early stagecoach ride, up close to old breeds of farm animals, in a chat with a costumed interpreter, and under the watchful eye of an experienced blacksmith, cooper, potter, or farmer doing what he did then. Over 30 special weekend events with hands-on craft work and more offered daily.

Fun World

200 Daniel Webster Highway Nashua, NH, 03060 Phone: 603-888-1940

Be a Family That Plays Together

Arcades have been an entertainment choice for kids and families for generations and no wonder. Fun World has the formula covered. There's lots of physical activity for younger kids in a huge, multi-level playground with big slides and a ball pit, along with 30 tot rides. For older kids and teens, the blur of choices of arcade games is daunting, from Wave Motion Theater and six-player Galaxian Theater to sports games, dance games to classic air hockey and pinball. Tickets can be redeemed for prizes hundreds of prizes. Parents will appreciate the reasonable price for a full day for family fun. Naturally, Fun World sells pizza and other classic kid foods, so your gang can hunker here ’til everyone is too tired to move.

Santa's Village

528 Presidential Highway Jefferson, NH, 03583 Phone: 603-586-4445

Pure Joy. Family Style. Every Summer.

Santa’s Village is Santa’s summer home in the White Mountains, and the only New England park listed by 2014 TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Awards as one of the Top 25 Amusement Parks in the USA. With reindeer and elves, cookies and ice cream, a roller coaster, a log flume, a monorail, and plenty of other rides and activities, it’s everything you’d imagine Santa’s summer home to be. One low admission price covers an entire day of memory-making for families with young children. For over 60 years and three generations, from our family to yours – Santa’s Village is pure joy, family style. Seasons: Open Memorial Day weekend to Christmas.

Fitchburg Art Museum

185 Elm Street Fitchburg, MA, 01420 Phone: 978-345-4207

A creative adventure for the whole family

There is great family fun and creative magic at the Fitchburg Art Museum. FAM present galleries filled with antiquities from Egypt, Greece and Rome, Africa and 19th century New England. Take a journey across time and you’ll discover sculptures, everyday objects, realistic reproductions of tomb walls, and even a mummy. Intriguing Learning Lounges feature interactive spaces where you can listen to an artist describe her own process, create your own art project, or contribute to a communal art work. Bring a sketch pad and pencils, and let draw your reactions to the art you see. Check out the exhibitions of art from schools, community organizations, and local artist groups in the Community Gallery and even show something that you’ve created.

Zoar Outdoor

Route 2 (Mohawk Trail) Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 800-532-7483

Outdoor fun for everyone with this adventure center as your base

It's hard to imagine that you and the kids would not have a blast at Zoar Outdoor. For starters, look at all the things you can do: fly through the trees on a zip line canopy tour that gets up to 50 feet above the forest floor; go for an easy float or face whitewater rapids with a rafting tour; or rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak and paddle down a river or around a lake. At the Zoar center in Wilmington, you can go mountain-biking or, in the winter, snowshoeing or skiing. Where to stay? Try our Hawk Mountain Lodge in the Berkshires, a renovated farmhouse suitable for up to 14 people. Want something more rustic? We have five tent sites, 11 cabin tents – and a yurt! – in our campgrounds surrounded by 80 acres of breathtaking wilderness where the kids can see hawks, owls and deer.

Summer Dog Sled Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel & Raft Jefferson New Hampshire

Muddy Paw Sled Dog Kennel & Raft NH

32 Valley Road Jefferson, NH, 03583 Phone: 603-545-4533

A family sojourn never to be forgotten

There’s adventure ahead on land and water and the whole family is invited. Enjoy warm weather rolling dog sledding that’s educational and hands on. Meet the sled dogs, help the musher harness and hitch the team, enjoy the dog sled ride, and share treats with the sled dogs after your ride. Get out on the water with Raft NH, a family-friendly, rafting outfitter offering whitewater trips for ages 6 and up. You’re in for unforgettable mild to wild rafting! Check out the “Paws & Paddles” package and enjoy a daytime whitewater raft trip and an evening rolling dog sled trek for a full day of outdoor fun.

Common Ground Center

473 Tatro Road Starksboro, VT, 05487 Phone: 802-453-2592 Toll-Free: 800-430-2667

Uncommon Fun for Grownups and Kids

Camp Common Ground sits on 700 gorgeous acres in the heart of Vermont, and each year many families make the trip to enjoy a week-long getaway. A non-profit founded in 1994, the inter-generational family camp is designed to provide families with a fun bonding experience while weaving in traditional summer camp activities, including arts, music, nature, wellness, and sports. Give cello a go, take a tennis lesson, try your hand at blacksmithing, go for a hike, or simply relax in a hammock with a good book – there truly is something for everyone! Camp Common Ground prides itself on welcoming all definitions of "family" and cultivating a sense of community among campers. The camp is 100% solar-powered and features a private swimming pond, tennis courts, hiking trails, a campfire pit, and more! Your week long getaway includes lodging in a tent, cabin, or lodge; all meals (local, organic, and vegetarian); and all activities. Nestled in the heart of New England, Camp Common Ground is the ultimate family destination!

Stone Zoo

149 Pond Street Stoneham, MA, 02180 Phone: 617-541-5466

Get everyone up close to fascinating animals from the wild

This wonderful family place started as a small local attraction in 1905 with elephants, giraffes, zebras, pigmy hippopotami and sea lions. Today discover fascinating animals from around the world. Greater Boston’s only white-cheeked gibbon exhibit is here, home to monkeys, lynxes, snow leopards, Mexican gray wolves, river otters, a black bear and the mysterious capybara. See jaguars, cougars, coyotes, and Gila monsters at the Treasures of the Sierra Madre exhibit. Windows to the Wild offers macaws, flamingos, sloth and meerkat. Meet “Major,“ the polar bear that inspired the Zoo’s popular black bear exhibit. The Peacock Place Gift Shop has unique gifts and souvenirs while the Safari Grill offers kid-friendly food and there are plenty of outdoor tables where to enjoy your own picnic.

Bear Rock Adventures

545 Beach Road Pittsburg, NH, 03592 Phone: Toll-Free: 866-663-9777

Family-friendly ATV rides with Bear Rock Adventures

Pick your own adventure with customized ATV and side-by-side ride itineraries from Bear Rock Adventures, perfect for families and thrill-seekers alike, to experience Northern New Hampshire’s Great North Woods from a new perspective. Explore over 1,000 miles of Ride the Wilds interconnected trails on half, full, or multi-day excursions for prime family photo stops and wildlife spotting. Bear Rock Adventures provides a safe, turnkey way to ATV with the latest gear including safety helmets and goggles, cutting-edge GPS and Bluetooth technology as well as storage compartments for your gear, maps, picnic lunches and selfie sticks to capture the ultimate memory. Bear Rock Adventures is open May through September. Book online and receive 15% off with code Visit17 - just click our link or photo above.

Shelburne Museum

U.S. Route 7 - P.O. Box 10 Shelburne, VT, 05482 Phone: 802-985-3346

This super-cool museum on the edge of Lake Champlain is filled with unusual attractions that are sure to entertain every person in the family. Kids and parents will love the authentic paddlewheel steamboat Ticonderoga, which was a workhourse of passenger and cargo transportation on the lake for decades in the 19th century. Shelburne Museum is one of the nation’s most eclectic museums of art, Americana, and design, displaying 150,000 objects on 45 acres in 25 historic New England buildings. There's even a lighthouse. A full day of family fun waits here, May through October. Information: http://shelburnemuseum.org/