Guide to the best Spring Break Destinations in New York State.
New York State is a beautiful place to visit, especially in the springtime. The weather is starting to get warmer and the flowers are starting to bloom. The sights around can be a beautiful experience for the entire family. While most will flock to warm weather destinations for spring break, consider booking a trip to New York instead.
New York State has something for everyone. Whether you’re into nature, animals, museums, theater and more, you’re sure to find a destination in New York that suits your needs. As New York State residents, we often stay close to home during spring break. Not only does it help us avoid the crowds that may head to other destinations, the experiences we’re looking for are just a drive away. Many of the best places to visit in New York are less than 6 hours outside of New York City. In just one trip, it’s possible to visit more than one of these amazing destinations.
Whether you are looking for a destination that involves big city thrills or are just looking for a calm, relaxing place to visit, there are many New York towns and boroughs that will give you a wonderful spring break experience.
Riverhead, NY
Riverhead is home to the famous Long Island Aquarium that’s fun for both adults and kids. Spring is the perfect time to go as the outdoor exhibits are open and the crowds are lower than in the summer. Hundreds of indoor and outdoor exhibits are scattered throughout the aquarium for all to see. For the more adventurous, the park offers various types animal encounters such as swimming with sharks. The Atlantis boat explorer tour gives an interactive experience for all to enjoy. Don’t forget to catch the sea lion show which takes place throughout the day. https://www.longislandaquarium.com/
During your stay in Riverhead, you can see live music at the Suffolk Theater, enjoy a wine tasting at Martha Clara Vineyards, or visit one of the many farms and landmarks in the area. Tanger Outlets are also near by for the best in discount shopping.
Montauk, NY
Heading a little further east from Riverhead is “The End” or Montauk, NY. While Montauk is a huge summer destination, there are a few good reasons why you should head there in the spring instead. First of all, you won’t have to deal with the enormous crowds that travel there during the summer months. It will make it much easier to visit attractions like the Montauk Point State Park and the Lighthouse. Next, nearby hiking trails are open for exploring. It’s fun to see the trees come to life while getting in a good hike.
Finally, spring is the perfect time for seal spotting on Long Island. Take the Seal Haulout trail to catch seals “haul” themselves out of the water to sunbathe on the rocks. March and early April are the best times to see them.
Blue Mountain Lake, NY
Outdoor enthusiasts will love their stay at Blue Mountain Lake. There are many outdoor adventures that you can participate in that will have you forget the rest of the world while you enjoy your time away from home. Hiking trails surround the lake where you’ll see others take part in fishing and other water activities are just a few.
Historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries are other great attractions Blue Mountain Lake has to offer. Many cottages and lakeside cabins are available for your family to stay in, so you can get the full experience of the calm nature lifestyle offered there. https://www.adirondack.net/
Yonkers, NY
Located along the Hudson River, Yonkers, NY is a great place for families to get away and experience the arts, history and so much more. The Hudson River Museum shows off historic American art, a historic 1876 mansion, and even a planetarium. If you’re looking to take in a more scenic experience, take a trip to the Untermyer Park and Gardens. The park is a 43-acre park that’s made up of six different gardens that are beautiful and breathtaking. https://www.untermyergardens.org/
For a fun family getaway, you can visit the Legoland Discovery Center Westchester in Yonkers. Kids can experience a fun day of building and exploration at this center built just for kids. Wander through a New York themed miniland then build and race your own custom car. Other attractions include and indoor ride, a Ninjago themed play area and a 4D movie experience. https://westchester.legolanddiscoverycenter.com/
Niagara Falls, NY
Experience one of the most famous natural wonders of the world as you visit Niagara Falls. Take part in hiking the various trails, enjoying the scenery, or you can take an adventurous plunge into the outdoor adventures and attractions that await. The best way to experience the falls is by taking a boat ride on The Maid of the Mist.
Visitors can take part in the guided tours throughout the beautiful area or enjoy the various wineries and vineyards along with other attractions like the aquariums and roller coasters. Adults can also try their luck at the Seneca Niagara Casino if they’re feeling lucky. https://www.niagarafallsusa.com
Manhattan, NY
There are so many different places to visit in Manhattan, it’s almost impossible to list. Spring in New York City offers cooler temperatures and less crowds than in the summer. It’s the perfect time to have a picnic in Central Park, watch the city bloom from the top of the Empire State Building or sit and people watch in Times Square. Of course there is also the opportunity to take in a Broadway show. Another fun way to experience NYC is by taking a tour.
Manhattan also has a variety of museum including the Natural History Museum and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While you are visiting Manhattan, you certainly can’t forget to take in the experience of visiting the Grand Central Terminal. https://www.nycgo.com/boroughs-neighborhoods/manhattan
The Bronx
Just outside New York City is The Bronx. If you’re making a trip to Manhattan, you can easily schedule a day to see the sites in The Bronx. First and foremost is The Bronx Zoo. This 265 acre zoo is one of the largest zoos in the United States. It is home to about 6,000 animals including tigers, elephants and sea lions.
Pro tip: Buying your tickets online will save money on The Bronx Zoo’s Total Experience ticket.
Up the road from The Bronx Zoo is the New York Botanical Garden. The gardens come alive in the spring. Fields of daffodils are in full bloom and provide a wonderful backdrop for some amazing pictures. You can also enjoy the cherry blossoms, lilacs and azaleas during spring. http://www.bronxzoo.com
Rochester, NY
A little farther northwest lies one of the most family friendly cities in New York State. Rochester has over 100 experiences in and around the city that are perfect for a family trip. Highlights include The Strong Museum of Play, Genesee Country Village and Museum, Ontario Beach Park, and the Seneca Park Zoo. This destination could also be paired with a trip to Niagara Falls or Letchworth State Park.
As you can see, New York has so many wonderful places to visit. These are just the tip of the iceberg. For more information on planning your spring break trip to New York State visit https://www.iloveny.com.
