11 Refreshing Ways to Beat the Summer Heat with Your Kids in New York State
The weather's hot - that doesn't mean you have to be. Here are 11 ways to cool off with your family this summer across New York State.
Whitewater Rafting
Get sprayed with refreshingly cool water during a trip full of fun bumps and lulls! You'll find options for whitewater fun all over New York state. Many tour providers offer kid-friendly options, but be sure to call ahead to be sure they can accommodate your little one.
Robert Moses State Park
Cool down at this stretch of Long Island State beach. Robert Moses State Park has it all: picnic tables, an 18-hole pitch and putt golf course, a boat basin, and - most importantly - the refreshing Atlantic Ocean to splash around in.
Lake George
This charming, down-to-earth mountain village is perfect for tubing, kayaking and swimming with the kids. Popular beach spots include Shepard's, Million Dollar Beach and Rogers Memorial Park Beach where a lifeguard is on duty. Rent kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards from Lake George Kayak Co. in Bolton Landing and start exploring.
Zoom Flume Waterpark
This is your spot for family splashing and play with a backdrop of rolling mountains. Located just two hours north of NYC and one hour south of Albany, Zoom Flume is close enough for a great day trip and just far enough for an unforgettable vacation.
Maid of the Mist
Get sprayed by one of nature's most majestic creations. Take your family on this guided boat ride to the base of the American and Horseshoe Falls at Niagara Falls. The kids will be awestruck by the grandiosity of the falls, and they'll learn a little about the natural form along the way.
Howe Caverns
Explore the largest cave open to the public in the northeast. Take a guided tour, an underground boat ride, hop on a zip line, mine for gemstones and more. Fun fact: this is the second largest most-visited natural New York State attraction.
Seabreeze Park
This family amusement and waterpark has over 75 attractions, including rides, rollercoasters, slides and live shows. The kids will never want to leave.
Peek & Peak Ziplining
How does an aerial adventure park and giant dual ziplines sound? Let the wind blow through your hair as you whip around Clymer, NY by zipline!
New York City Water Trail
Whether you're looking for a few hours of tranquil paddling or an all-day adventure, the NYC Water Trail is the coolest way to see the sites of the Big Apple.
Catamount Adventure Park
Embark on an aerial forest adventure at Catamount Adventure Park. Master one treetop course or them all! Instill in your kids the sense that they can conquer anything.
Grafton Lakes State Park
Fish, picnic, swim, hike, bike - you name it, Grafton Lake State Park has it. This forested mountain ridge between the Taconic and the Hudson Valley features 10 miles of park trails, four ponds to splash around in as well as a reservoir.
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