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Family Activities in New England

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 Parks

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.

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Argia Mystic Cruises

75 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.

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!

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Bishop's Orchards

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

No one ever is bored at this farm and orchards, with plenty of fun activities for the whole family

If you have heard “there’s nothing to do” one time too many, pack everyone in the car and head straight to Bishop’s Orchards, where no one has ever uttered that phrase. Pick-your-own season starts in June with strawberries and goes all the way to Halloween in the pumpkin patch. The kids will love picking their own blueberries and apples (a tractor-trailer will take you to the apple orchards). In the fall, there are activities from scarecrow-making and outdoor movie nights to the hay maze. Holiday season means cookie-decorating, visiting Santa and the holiday Apple Train. Check the calendar for kids’ book club meetings and other special events. And did we mention the Creamery with flavors from Sea Salt Caramel to Fly Fishing Fudge and Moose Tracks?

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Mount Washington Auto Road

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

Auto 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.

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America's Hometown welcomes You - Visit our Destination Plymouth page!

Experience the Revolution in America's Hometown - See Plymouth, MA! - See Plymouth, MA!

Old Sturbridge Village - More than a Museum!

The Steamship Authority

Ferries from Cape Cod bring you to your island vacation on Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard

Your fun family vacation to the exciting islands off Cape Cod begins with a comfortable, scenic trip on one of the Steamship Authoritys ferries. Enjoy the sea breezes, food and beverage service and wifi (pets are permitted). Once you dock at Oak Bluffs, MA on Martha’s Vineyard or at Nantucket, your adventure begins. Take a sightseeing tour, or explore your island on beautiful biking and hiking trails. Go kayaking, stroll cobblestone streets with unique restaurants and shops, book a sunset sail. There are movies at Children’s Beach on Nantucket, and the Flying Horses carousel in Oak Bluffs on the Vineyard. Don’t miss the amazing red clay cliffs at Aquinnah, MA or windsurfing off Nantucket. And look for special festivals, honoring film, food and wine – and daffodils! For more information visit SteamshipAuthority.com.

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Mark Twain House & Museum

351 Farmington Avenue Hartford, CT, 06105 Phone: 860-247-0998

Explore 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.

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Island Queen

75 Falmouth Heights Road Falmouth, MA, 02540 Phone: 508-548-4800

Beginning, 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.

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Rock Climbing - Mt. Washington Valley NH Chamber of Commerce

Mt. Washington Valley Chamber of Commerce

So many activities in this popular N.H. region, everyone in the family will have a good time

It’s a paradise for families, four seasons of the year: In the Mt. Washington Valley, there are so many things to do, everyone will go home happy! There are water sports in the summer, from kayaking to finding the perfect swimming hole; winter means exceptional alpine and cross-country skiing, fat biking, tubing and snowshoeing – and Santa’s Village. Spring is a good time to hit the bike trails, break out the canoe or visit a museum. And fall, of course, means leaf-peeping, whether you drive the Kancamagus Highway or take a trip on the Conway Scenic Railroad. Kids will love the fun shops in the valley’s villages, and adults will love comfortable lodgings with pools and on-site restaurants. Click above to visit our website or call our friendly concierge at 800-337-3563 for more info on first class lodging and exciting events to plan your next adventure!

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Village by the Sea - Family Fun with Room to Stretch Out! - Wells, ME

Find Great Theater and Music throughout New England on our Performing Arts pages!

Aquaboggan Water Park

980 Portland Road Saco, ME, 04072 Phone: 207-282-3112

Thrilling water slides, toddler-friendly splash zones, bumper boats, mini golf galore!

Aquaboggan Water Park in Saco, Maine is the ultimate spot for family fun in the summer sun. With high-speed waterslides like Turbo Drop and Stealth 5, a giant wave pool, and toddler-friendly play areas, there’s something for thrill-seekers and little splashers alike. When you're ready for a break from the water, head over to the Grand Prix Go-Kart track or enjoy a round of mini golf. Bumper Boats and the Aquasaucer add even more ways to play. Families love the free parking, picnic areas, and plenty of lounge chairs for relaxing between rides. For evening entertainment, don’t miss their Saco Drive-In – now located at water park – showing double features under the stars. It's the perfect end to a fun-filled day.

Opens for the 2025 season on June 28th

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Mom & Son 500x250 - Crab Apple Whitewater - The Forks, ME

Crab Apple Whitewater (ME)

3 Lake Moxie Road The Forks, ME, 04985 Phone: 800-553-7238

Guided 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.

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Conway Scenic Railroad

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

Make memories with Conway Scenic’s classic Valley Train

Kids love the Valley Train, a one-hour round trip down the old Boston & Maine Conway Branch that recreates the mid-twentieth experience of traveling from town to town by rail. Conway Scenic Railroad made its 1974 debut with this run which has enjoyed growing popularity ever since. The sights and sounds and gentle sway of the vintage equipment is intrinsic to the thrill of this classic journey. Sit back and enjoy the ambling train ride that will take to back to a time when 20 mph was fast enough. At the far end of the line, the locomotive uncouples and runs around the passenger cars to lead that train back again. Be sure to spend time at the North Conway Station, itself a 150 year old relic of times past complete with ticket office and an old fashioned waiting room which also serves as a museum of photographs and artifacts.

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Family Activities Spring-Summer-Fall - Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods Chamber - New Hampshire

Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods Chamber of Commerce

P.O. Box 194 Twin Mountain, NH, 03595 Phone: Toll-Free: 800-245-8946

There really is something for everyone, all year long, in this fun mountain region

Here’s your dilemma: Everyone in the family wants to do something different on vacation. The Twin Mountain-Bretton Woods, NH region of the White Mountains says: No problem. A partial list of family activities would include the shows at Clark’s Bears and visits with Santa at Santa’s Village. There are exciting rides at Story Land, water parks, and ski resorts. Check out the lakes via pontoon boat, pedal boat, canoe or kayak. Go on a horseback ride in the summer or a dog-sled ride in the winter. Take a scenic railroad tour, moose tour or tour to the summit of Mt. Washington. Learn how to make maple syrup, hike to a waterfall, go mountain or fat biking. Ski, snowboard, snowshoe and skate. There’s something for everyone in this fun region.

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Sailing Past a Lighthouse - Lighthouse Cruises - New London, CT

Cross Sound Cruises

2 Ferry Street New London, CT, 06320 Phone: 860-444-4620

Catamaran 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.

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Waumbeck Station Spring View - Mt. Washington Cog Railway - Bretton Woods, NH

Mount Washington Cog Railway

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

Thrill 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

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Old Sturbridge Village

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

Family 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.)

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Scott Farm

707 Kipling Road Dummerston, VT, 05301 Phone: 802-490-2865

Farm’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).

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Evening View of the Lowell Summer Music Festival - Lowell, MA

Greater Merrimack Valley

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

Activities from art museums to escape rooms will engage every member of your family

Visit the Concord Museum to see the “one if by land” Paul Revere lantern or Thoreau’s writing desk. Marvel at the intricacies of the model ship collection at the Addison Gallery of American Art. Climb up the crow’s nest on the Discovery Museum’s. Just-for-kids ship, or make pinch-pot clay animals and trinket dishes at the Pottery Mill Clay Studio. Go on a winter walk or explore the Native American and Shaker collections at the Fruitlands Museum. Or step into your own private escape game, cracking codes and solving puzzles, at Escapology. There are so many activities to delight families in the Merrimack region, from trampoline parks and bowling alleys to museums with astonishing art and activities that engage even the youngest visitors.

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Galaxy Montage - Blake Planetarium - Plymouth, MA

W. Russell Blake Planetarium

117 Long Pond Road Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-830-4470

Full-dome Plymouth planetarium a shining star for visitors of all ages

The sky’s the limit for visitors to the W. Russell Blake Planetarium, the only 4K full-dome planetarium south of Boston. As you sit back in angled chairs, you’ll gaze at a ceiling filled with stars and planets while learning to identify them and how to use a star map (that you can take home). It’s a spectacle of light and color not to be missed. Regular seasonal stargazing programs take advantage of the high-tech surround-sound system and jaw-dropping full-dome views.

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The House of the Seven Gables

225 Derby Street Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-774-0991

Hands-on activities and outdoor fun make visiting this historic home perfect for families

Hands-on activities and exciting outdoor environments make visiting The House of the Seven Gables a fun family experience. Take a tour of the 17th-century gabled house, now called the Turner-Ingersoll Mansion, which inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel. You can also visit the author’s birthplace, other colonial homes and colorful seaside gardens. Weekend activities might include learning how to use a quill pen or how to churn fresh butter. (Check the event calendar.) Over at the Kids Cove, in the 19th-century Counting House, kids can check out harbor views from the helm of a “ship,” or through a porthole telescope. A scavenger hunt is also available. The property also offers a variety of theatrical performances centered around Hawthorne, Salem, MA and different holidays. And check the website for special coloring pages.

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Warwick Office of Tourism

3275 Post Road Warwick, RI, 02886 Phone:

Outdoor 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.

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Concord Museum

35 Cambridge Turnpike at Lexington Road Concord, MA, 01742 Phone: 978-369-9763

Interactive exhibits, Revolutionary War objects get children involved at Concord Museum

At the Concord Museum, there are several ways children are encouraged to experience the thrill of discovery as they move through the galleries. There are scavenger hunts, interactive stations and close-looking prompts that encourage involvement. And the exhibits themselves are intriguing for children: the lantern used by Paul Revere when he rode to rouse the Colonial Army, for example; or the kettle used by Louisa May Alcott while serving as a nurse for the Union Army in Washington, DC during the Civil War. The April 19, 1775, gallery is also popular with families, featuring many items from the Revolutionary War and a digital map that takes viewers step by step through the events of that historic day. Strollers are allowed in the museum. Check the website calendar for special events and programs.

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Save The Bay

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

Have 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. And this nonprofit environmental organization offers plenty of opportunities to do just that at their 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 onboard 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.

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Discover Quincy

City of Quincy Welcome Center - 1259 Hancock Street Quincy, MA, 02169 Phone: 617-471-1700

Home of two presidents boasts historic sites, great beaches, shopping, hiking, dining

It’s not surprising that a city known for so many families – the Adamses, Quincys and Hancocks – would have activities and attractions popular with families. Visiting the Adams' Homesteads and Presidential Library. (In the Stone Library, you’ll find the Mendi Bible given to John Quincy Adams by the Amistad enslaved people.) Walk to the Abigail Adams Cairn, the site where she and John Quincy watched the smoke and fire from the Battle of Bunker Hill. From the Quincy RiverWalk, you can launch your kayak. Shop or dine in stylish Marina Bay, with incredible Boston skyline views. Hike or bike (or ski) in Blue Hills Reservation, take a harbor cruise, or climb a lighthouse in the Boston Harbor Islands National & State Park.

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Essex Steam Train & Riverboat

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

Something for everyone when you experience this train ride, riverboat cruise combination

Some of the family loves the idea of a train ride; others want to experience a river cruise: Essex Steam Train & Riverboat to the rescue! Hop on the train at the historic Essex Station for a narrated round trip into the heart of the unspoiled Connecticut River Valley. Your vintage cars (including caboose seats!) will be pulled by steam locomotives through quintessential New England towns. Get off at Deep River Landing and board the Becky Thatcher, a Mississippi-style riverboat, for a cruise along the river, with its coves, inlets, rocky shoreline and wildlife visible from multiple decks. The train, which also has a dinner train featuring 1920s Pullman-made dining cars, also offers a variety of special excursions, from Thomas the Tank Engine extravaganzas to a murder mystery dinner train. Please check our website for current train & riverboat schedules.

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York's Wild Kingdom

Route 1 - (GPS address: 1 Animal Park Road) York, ME, 03909 Phone: 207-363-4911

New 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.

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Block Island Ferry

304 Great Island Road Narragansett, RI, 02882 Phone: 401-783-7996 Toll-Free: 866-783-7996

There’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.

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Morningside Flight Park

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

At 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.

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Androscoggin Valley Chamber of Commerce

961 Main Street Berline, NH, 03570 Phone: 603-228-0836

The 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.

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Sunflowers - Plimoth Patuxet - Plymouth, MA

Plimoth Patuxet Museums

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

Families can travel back in time to the 17th century with this interactive, engaging museum

Take your kids on a journey back in time, to see how Indigenous and Pilgrim children experienced life in the 17th century. At Plimoth Patuxet Museums, contemporary interpreters at the Historic Patuxet Homesite and 17th-Century English Village engage visitors in everything from cooking lessons and muster drills to how to create a dugout canoe. There’s a Craft Center, cinema and quick-service cafe. In Plymouth Harbor, MA, you are welcome to step aboard Mayflower II, a full-scale reproduction of the original famed tall ship. A pleasant stroll on the path along Town Brook (in the spring, watch for herring) takes you to the Plimoth Grist Mill, where you can learn how cornmeal is ground. Named the Best Open Air Museum in the United States by USA Today's 10Best Readers' Choice Awards!

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NEOC

30 Twin Pines Road Millinocket, ME, 04462 Phone: 207-723-5438 Toll-Free: 800-766-7238

NEOC in Millinocket, ME offers families a true all-seasons adventure experience. Located near Baxter State Park and the Penobscot River, guests can choose from whitewater rafting trips, guided fishing excursions, and wildlife watching tours. In winter, the resort provides access to snowmobiling, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing trails. Families can stay in comfortable cabins and dine onsite at River Drivers Restaurant. The resort runs daily rafting trips from April to October, often with a riverside barbecue lunch included. Whether you’re exploring the Katahdin Region or customizing a guided outdoor experience, the center provides an unforgettable Maine getaway for guests of all ages.

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See Plymouth

4 North Street Plymouth, MA, 02360 Phone: 508-747-0100 Toll-Free: 800-872-1620

Interactive 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.

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White Mountains Attractions

200 Kancamagus Highway North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: 603-745-8720 Toll-Free: 800-346-3687

Every 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.

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A Morning in Maine

3 Park Drive Rockland, ME, 04841 Phone: 207-691-7245

Set 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.

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Family Rafting 500x250 - Crab Apple Whitewater - Charlemont, MA

Crab Apple Whitewater (MA)

2056 Mohawk Trail Charlemont, MA, 01339 Phone: 800-553-7238

Members 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.

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Trolley Tours - Greater Boston CVB - Boston, MA

Meet Boston

Information Centers on Boston Common and Prudential Towers (Center Court) Boston, MA, 02116 Phone: 888-733-2678

Family-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.

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Cross Sound Ferry

2 Ferry Street New London, CT, 06320 Phone: 860-443-5281

Smooth Sailing Between Connecticut and Long Island

Cross Sound Ferry offers a fun and efficient way for families to travel between New London, CT and Long Island, NY. The fleet includes high-speed and traditional ferries, many of which allow vehicles, making it easy to bring your car, pets, and bikes along for the adventure. On board, families can relax in spacious indoor seating areas or enjoy the fresh air from the open-air decks. The Cross Sound Deli serves breakfast, sandwiches, snacks, craft beers and specialty cocktails, and there are clean restrooms and comfortable seating with wifi and TV’s throughout. Kids will love watching the passing boats and lighthouses during the scenic trip. The ferry operates year-round and makes for a convenient and quick start to a beach day, road trip, or family getaway across the Sound.

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Visit North Central Massachusetts

1000 Route 2 West (between Exits 103 & 102) Lancaster, MA, 01523 Phone: 978-534-2302

No matter what the season, there is always family fun throughout the region

Your family will never be bored when you visit North Central Massachusetts. Head to an alpaca farm to say hello to the animals, glide across the snow in a horse-drawn sleigh at Cornerstone Ranch in Princeton, MA or give your skis and snowboards a workout at Wachusett Mountain. Try your hand at axe throwing, corn hole, basketball or volleyball at Game on Fitchburg, MA, or have a blast at an indoor water park and ropes course at Great Wolf Lodge. Winter hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are spectacular in the area’s parks, preserves and recreation centers. With a variety of performing arts venues, historical museums and galleries, there really is something for every age and interest. - Read more about North Central Mass. here!

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Great Glen Trails

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

Fun 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.

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Scenic RailRiders

188 Sewalls Falls Road Concord, NH, 03301 Phone: 603-931-1700

Plan something out of the ordinary for a family outing: riding the rails on custom-built “bikes”

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.

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Liberty Hill Farm & Inn

511 Liberty Hill Road Rochester, VT, 05767 Phone: 802-767-3926

Learn 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.

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Worcester Art Museum

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

Guaranteed: Your kids are going to love interactive features at art museum

If you think your kids will not fall in love with the Worcester Art Museum after a visit there, think again. The museum offers families several ways to enjoy its magnificent collection and special exhibitions, from ancient to contemporary art. Art carts let children draw pictures and touch materials. Hands-on displays and touch stations urge them to touch tools used to create art. Interactive arms-and-armor presentations let them try on armor from the beloved Higgins Armory Collection. (See the website from a list of great questions to ask when you’re experiencing art with kids.) The Cafe in the spectacular Renaissance Court features sandwiches and salads, pastries and beverages. There’s plenty of free parking — and children under 17 get in for free!

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Bluefish Girls 500x250 - Black Hawk Party Boat - Niantic, CT

Black Hawk Sport Fishing

Sailing from Cini Memorial Park Niantic, CT, 06357 Phone: 860-448-3662 Toll-Free: 800-382-2824

Families, 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.

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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

It’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.

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Old North Bridge at Minuteman National Historical Park - Concord, MA - Photo Credit Ed Feather Photography

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.

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Southwick’s Zoo

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

Fun and exciting adventures await for the whole family at Southwick’s Zoo

A day at Southwick’s Zoo brings fun and adventure for the entire family! Discover the over 850 animals that call Southwick’s Zoo their home. Dine at one of the many food venues in the park or make your reservation at Galliford’s Restaurant & Tavern, the full-service restaurant here at the zoo.
After lunch, continue exploring the zoo! Visit the EARTH Discovery Center to hear from one of our Earth Educators about the many ambassador animals. Explore the 35-acre Deer Forest and feed the fallow deer, journey through the North American Exhibit on the Woodlands Express Train to see the elk forest, and glide high above the sky on the Soaring Eagle Zipline! So much, so close…Your adventure begins at Southwick’s Zoo!

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Castle in The Clouds

455 Old Mountain Road Moultonborough, NH, 03254 Phone: 603-476-5900

Interactive 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!

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New Hampshire Highland Games & Festival - Lincoln, NH - Photo Credit NHSCOT

NHSCOT & NH Highland Games Festival

Loon Mountain Resort - 60 Loon Mountain Road Lincoln, NH Phone:

Fun for the whole family at this three-day Scottish festival

Bring the family and get your Scot on during the NH Highland Games & Festival at Loon Mountain Resort in Lincoln, NH. This three-day celebration is one of the largest cultural events in the Northeast and has something for everyone! Kids will enjoy watching strongmen compete in heavy athletics like caber toss and stone carry or taking a photo with the friendly Highland cows. Try-It classes in stone lifting, drumming, and Highland dance will keep the whole family entertained while traditional Scottish cuisine will keep you well-fed. Don’t forget to stroll through the Clan Village, home to 60+ Scottish clans and also visit over 30 vendors selling tartan scarves, traditional sweets, bagpiping supplies, and various other Celtic items.
The 2025 NH Highland Games & Festival is on September 19-21 - Check the website for tickets & more info!

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Lyman Orchards

32 Reeds Gap Road Middlefield, CT, 06455 Phone: 860-349-1793

Named 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!

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Family Activities - Lake Compounce - Bristol, CT

Lake Compounce Amusement & Water Park

185 Enterprise Drive Bristol, CT, 06010 Phone: 860-583-3300

From single-day adventures to weekend getaways, Lake Compounce has been the place for great family escapes for generations. With uniquely themed attractions of all shapes and sizes, America’s first amusement park offers endless fun for everyone. Fill your day with surprises at the one park where the smiles are bigger, the laughs last longer and the memories are forever.

Join us for the Ultimate Season of Family Fun with unforgettable events all year long! From summer splashes to Halloween thrills and dazzling holiday lights, there’s something for everyone to experience. Mark your calendar and get ready for a season packed with fun!

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Ice Castles

24 Clark Farm Road North Woodstock, NH, 03262 Phone: Toll-Free: 866-201-1726

A 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.

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Providence Childrens Museum in Providence, RI - Photo Credit PWCVB

Go Providence

1 Sabin Street Providence, RI, 02903 Phone: 401-751-1177

No 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

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Funtown Splashtown USA

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

Earn your kids’ undying affection and make family memories at this amusement and water park

Want to be a hero with the kids? Tell them you are going to Funtown Splashtown USA, where 50 rides await, from roller coasters to corkscrew water slides. At Funtown, they can plummet down New England’s longest and tallest log flume, sit and spin in a tea cup, zip through hairpin turns on a roller coaster or ride the carousel. Kiddie rides include boats, cars, swings, helicopters, canoes and planes. At Splashtown, thrill-seekers can plummet down a 60-foot-high slide feet first or race down a 45-foot slide head first on a mat. There’s also a swimming pool, and private cabanas for rent that seat eight. Dining options include cafes, a tiki bar with fruit smoothies, ice cream shops and a beer garden. A family owned and operated business, Funtown Splashtown puts guest safety first. Please review our health safety guidelines prior to your visit.

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Connecticut River Museum

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

Families 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.

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Toddler at IT Adventures Rope Course - New Haven, CT

IT Adventure Ropes Course

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

Giant ropes course features huge variety of obstacles, lots of fun and learning experiences for all

Here’s a dream scenario for a parent: an activity where the kids can have a blast and, at the same time, learn a little something. That’s the perfect combination you and your family will find at theIt Adventure Ropes Course inside Jordan’s Furniture in New Haven, CT. The world’s largest indoor ropes course includes everything from zip rails, rope ladders and swinging beams to cargo nets and bridges. For little adventurers, there’s the Little It ropes course, with platforms three feet off the ground, where adults can step in to assist. Four climbing walls provide a fresh take on traditional climbing. The activities encourage critical thinking and teamwork — all while everyone is having the time of their lives! The facility is also great for birthday parties or field trips - give us a call for group rates.

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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.

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Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort

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

Family vacations always end way too soon at this exciting four-season mountain resort

All year-round, Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort is the place where vacations end way too soon – because there is so much to do! Winter, of course, means first-class skiing over 45 trails and snowboarding in three terrain parks. There’s also a network of snowshoeing trails and excellent night skiing. When it’s not ski season, it’s still fun season in the Mountain Adventure Park, with an alpine slide, mountain coaster, giant swing, rock-climbing wall, trampoline, scenic chairlift rides, a zip line and a playground with a bounce house. Over at the Aerial Adventure Park, climb and zip through the trees as you conquer various challenges like rope bridges, swinging logs and cargo nets. And, you’ll find superior mountain biking and hiking trails as well as loads of different dining options.

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The Mather Homestead

19 Stephen Mather Road Darien, CT, 06820 Phone: 203-202-7602

This Mather Homestead is Darien’s only National Historic Landmark. The home was built in 1778 on 100 acres of farmland by Deacon Joseph Mather, son of the fiery Patriot Reverend Moses Mather. It was raided by Tories during the Revolutionary War who came searching for valuables. and expanded by Stephen Tyng Mather, an avid conservationist and the first Director of the National Park Service. He installed beautiful gardens which still grace the seven acre property today. The home is open for tours which tell stories of Revolutionary War times and the establishment of our current National Park System.
Admission: Adults, $10; children, $5.

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Santa's Village

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

Will 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!

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Block Island Express

2 Ferry Street New London, CT, 06320 Phone:

A 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.

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Granite State Railway

64 Railroad Street Lincoln, NH, 03251 Phone: 603-745-2135

Travel back into the country’s railroad past in vintage cars, along a winding river

All aboard the Granite State Scenic 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. During the 80-minute, 15-mile round trip, you’ll see swimmers, kayakers and fishermen in and along this picturesque waterway. The rail system dates back to the late 1800s, when trains pulled by steam locomotives moved tourists from Boston, Hartford and New York north to the pristine lakes and mountains of New Hampshire. The family owned and operated train runs late May through October, then Thanksgiving through mid-December. At the Gift Shop, grab snacks, ice cream and soda – or bring your own picnic lunch.

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Hampton Beach Village District

115 Ocean Boulevard Hampton Beach, NH, 03843 Phone: 603-926-8717

It’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.

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Salem Witch Museum

19 1/2 Washington Square North Salem, MA, 01970 Phone: 978-744-1692

Salem witch trial story, and the evolution of scapegoating through history, among museum highlights

Salem is a town designed for exploration by children and adults alike, and there’s no better place to start than the Salem Witch Museum, where light is shed on one of the country’s darkest moments: the 1692 Salem Witch Trials. The lives of those found guilty during the trials, as well as the lies and intrigue leading up to the trials, are brought to life through 13 life-size stage sets, figures, dramatic lighting and narration. A second exhibit looks at the meaning and evolution of the word “witch,” from European witch trials up to modern times. Visitors learn about scapegoating and stereotyping through time. The museum gift shop has a large assortment of apparel, spell books, tarot cards and locally made treats. Parking garages are nearby.

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The Dinosaur Place at Nature's Art Village

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

Families 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!

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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, 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.

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Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts

Sun, Fun, and Adventure in the Berkshires!

School’s out, and the Berkshires are in! Bring the kids - and the dog! - to the Berkshires for sun, fun, and adventure! Find mountain lakes, many with beaches and public facilities, for swimming, sailing, and fishing. Cool off in an adventure park on a zip line or mountain coaster, then head to one of the local and state parks for a picnic lunch. Hike, bike, or walk a trail under a cool canopy of green. Enjoy outdoor music next to a park or playground, or find hands-on art activities at a local museum. Whether you want to enjoy an outdoor family meal followed by a good book under a shady tree, or you crave all-day excitement, the Berkshires can fill every agenda for the young and the young at heart. To learn more visit us at berkshires.org. Find us on Facebook @Visit the Berkshires of Western Massachusetts and Instagram @visittheberkshires.

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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.

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Margate Resort on Winnipesaukee

76 Lake Street Laconia, NH, 03246 Phone: 603-524-5210 Toll-Free: 800-627-4283

Your 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.

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Rafting Group - Crab Apple Whitewater - West Dover, VT

Crab Apple Whitewater (VT)

289 Handle Road West Dover, VT, 05356 Phone: 800-553-7238

No 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.

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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.

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Rocky Point Park

1 Rocky Point Avenue Warwick, RI, 02889 Phone:

From 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.

Roger Williams Park Zoo

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

From visits with the animals to zip lines and train rides, there’s something for every family member

Do your kids want to see an elephant swim? Go on a zip line ride? Get up close with an armadillo? Of course, they do! That’s why the Roger Williams Park Zoo is perfect for family adventures. The Zoo features over 100 species of animals from anacondas to wallabies. Watch a Massai giraffe reach high for a leafy dinner, birds flying overhead in a free-flight aviary or a bison grazing. Walk among farm animals at the petting zoo or head to the Soaring Eagle zip ride, train ride, or giant playground, with a building zone, forts, ropes to swing on, and a treehouse. Eating options include sandwiches and salads, pizza, and other favorites. Stop by the carousel located nearby. Also enjoy events like Food Truck Fridays, New England’s favorite Halloween event- the annual Jack-O-Lantern Spectacular, or the Holiday Lights Spectacular.

Goddard Memorial State Park

1095 Ives Road Warwick, RI, 02818 Phone: 401-884-2010

Plenty 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)

ECHO Lake Aquarium & Science Center - Burlington, VT

ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center

One College Street Burlington, VT, 05401 Phone: 802-864-1848

This 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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