Think it’s too late for a summer “vacation?” Not if it’s local! These glamping spots are all a 3 hour drive or less from NYC. These water parks are a great for an extended getaway weekend, too. Plus, there’s always a virtual vacation! Visit the Grand Canyon, or take a virtual trip to the Dallas zoo, from the comfort of your couch! Keep scrolling for more fun weekend ideas for kids!
Photo: iStock
LeFrak Center at Lakeside
The LeFrak Center at Lakeside has reopened for boating, biking and Splash Pad, with food and drink available for takeaway from the Bluestone Café!
Wild Safari Drive-Through Adventure
Boasting 1,200 animals from six continents including elephants, rhinos, tigers, giraffes and lions, Wild Safari Drive-Thru Adventure takes explorers on an exhilarating, interactive animal adventure. Guests can explore the most interesting and exotic creatures at a 350-acre preserve in Jackson, New Jersey. The journey takes about 1.5 to 3 hours is done in your own vehicle!
Outdoor Summer History Series
The Queens Historical Society is hosting outdoor events throughout August and September for young friends from age 7–12. Learn history through the fun of a range of games and activities! This fun will come with safety and learning outside, so bring some water, sunscreen, and masks for everyone over the age of 2.
Hellgate Farm Stand
The farm stand features fresh seasonal local produce and small batch goods like honey and hot sauce.
Outdoor Art Table with Private Picassos
Private Picassos is bringing the Studio outside for drop-in art projects! Space is first come, first served, with room for a max of 4 kids at a time.
Bring the Dallas Zoo to You
From virtual visits and chats with staff, to showing what the animals are up to and posting activity ideas from education and conservation teams, the Dallas Zoo wants to use this time to continue to engage, educate, inspire and ultimately bring a smile to your face.
Go Under the Sea
The OdySea Aquarium is sharing all kinds of educational content for kids (and adults!) who are at home learning. Find out what the animals are up to with live cams and explore!
Explore the Atlanta History Center at Home
Visit the Atlanta History Center from home with access to lectures, exhibitions, author talks and more.
Laurie Berkner’s Birthday Party Show
Laurie Berkner will give a free Facebook Live birthday celebration for kids who were born in that month – a party everyone is invited to! Laurie encourages families who are watching to decorate, just like she will, wear party clothes, and bake a special birthday treat to bring to the party.
At Home with Irish Arts Center
In this creative book-making workshop you will choose which animal you would like to become, learn its wisdom, and draw a simple booklet of your own imagined animal transformation tale.
There are tons more events on our calendar – be sure to check them out all week long!
– Jesseca Stenson
featured image: iStock