For many families, visiting a national park is a top contender when planning a family vacation. While Yosemite and Yellowstone are a real hike from New York City, there are many state parks, national seashores (yes, it’s a thing) and national historic sites and monuments closer to home. Have you been to the “Grand Canyon of the East?”
Fire Island National Seashore
This skinny barrier island off the coast of Long Island is just 32 miles long and about three blocks wide. While you can drive to some spots on the island (the Fire Island Lighthouse is one of them), cars are not allowed in the 18 communities you'll find here. Charming boardwalks are the way to get around, and bikes are allowed as well. A popular and enjoyable way to get to Fire Island is by ferry, which you can catch at Bay Shore, Patchogue and Saville (each serving a different part of the island). Things to do and see here include visiting the lighthouse, boating, swimming and birdwatching, as well as walking the Sunken Forest in Sailor's Haven. This centuries-old forest, which is naturally pruned by the salt air is a spot for wildlife and diverse plant growth. Take the ferry to Sayville to access it.
Airbnb nearby: With land at a premium, Fire Island rentals aren't cheap. This house is on the more affordable side, sleeps six and is near shops and a grocery store.
Online: nps.gov
Niagra Falls State Park
It's a bit of a drive from NYC (six to seven hours) but everyone's got to see Niagra Falls at least once. Of course, you can experience the thunderous majesty of the falls themselves a variety of ways—on the traditional boat ride The Maid of the Mist, in the Niagra Gorge in the Cave of the Winds or enjoy the falls while enjoying a meal at the Top of the Falls restaurant. But this place is about more than the falls: there are trails to hike, historical site Old Fort Niagra, a Frank Lloyd Wright House to visit, an aquarium, lock, canal and cave tours and even factory outlets to get your shop on.
Nearby Airbnb: This cute apartment with a mid-century vibe sleeps five and is in the center of the action.
Online: niagarafallsstatepark.com
Letchworth State Park
Yes, another place known for falls, but different from its northerly neighbor. Letchworth State Park, located about 45 miles outside of Rochester, is known as "the Grand Canyon of the East" thanks to the gorge through which the Genesee River flows. The falls here are bordered by steep tree-covered hills, which are a sight to see at any time, but stunning in the fall. With the mix of mist and sun, rainbow sightings here are pretty much guaranteed. The park offers 66 miles of hiking trails, guided walks, whitewater rafting and more outdoor fun. For a true bucket list experience, hop in a hot air balloon for an unforgettable view. The Glen Iris Inn has been operating since 1914 and is a nice spot to get some food.
Nearby Airbnb: This charming house with a large backyard and fire pit is minutes from Letchworth (you can hike directly in) and near the village center. It sleeps eight.
Online: parks.ny.gov
Bear Mountain State Park
Closer to home, Bear Mountain State Park is a popular destination for New York city families looking for a quick getaway. There's lots to do here. In addition to hiking trails for all levels, there is a lake with boat rentals, a swimming pool, an ice rink in the winter, and a Trailside Zoo that's open seven days a week. Don't skip taking a spin on the park's merry-go-round. You can read our full guide to visiting Bear Mountain State Park with kids here.
Nearby Airbnb: This deluxe Hudson Valley house sleeps five and is a 10-minute drive to Bear Mountain.
Online: parks.ny.gov
Gettysburg National Military Park
For history buffs, Gettysburg, the site of a key turning point in the Civil War, is a key destination. The war's bloodiest battle, it is of course the inspiration for Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. The military park has its own visitor center and museum, and it's recommended you hit the museum before heading to the battlefield. The museum measures 22,000 square feet and features items from one of the largest collections of Civil War relics in the world. See items from the Battle of Gettysburg, learn about the personalities who served in the Civil War, and view interactive exhibits and multi-media presentations. Some elements require advance tickets, which you can get here.
Nearby Airbnb: This stylish place is 10 minutes from Gettysburg and sleeps eight people. (It's also near Liberty Mountain Ski Resort if you want to come back in the winter.)
Online: nps.gov
National Parks Near Boston
Head north to check out all that Boston and its surrounding states have to offer in terms of national parks.
The Cape Cod National Seashore is an amazing spot to vacation, especially when the summer breezes are rolling in.
You can take a ferry from Boston to check out the Boston Harbor Islands State and National Parks. You can even go camping there!
Acadia National Park is just north of Boston in the gorgeous state of Maine. Acadia offers families dozens of activities beyond hiking (though the hiking is both excellent and most often very family-friendly), which everyone will love. Pack your bikes for rides along the network of Carriage Roads, and blow their minds at Thunder Hole, a partially submerged cave that booms about an hour before high tide.
National Parks Near Washington DC
If you're willing to make a longer trip out of it, there are plenty of national parks near Washington, DC that the kids will love.
Bursting with epic waterfalls, spectacular views, fields of wildflowers, and quiet wooded areas for a family picnic, Shenandoah National Park is a great option for families.
Assateague Island National Seashore has sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime forests and coastal bays. Oh, and you might even see some wild horses too.
Great Falls Park offers many opportunities to explore history and nature, all in a beautiful 800-acre park only 15 miles from the Nation's Capital.
RELATED STORIES
Get Outta Town: Our Favorite NYC Area Airbnbs For Families
Fresh Air Fun: The Best Spring Day Trips from NYC for Kids
Fresh Air Fun: Kid-Friendly Hikes Near NYC
