Theme Parks & Water Parks

Choose the park around your children, not just the biggest roller coaster. A good park day includes the journey home and enough energy to enjoy it.

A dedicated theme-park outing. Start with LEGOLAND New York for a family trip built around LEGO-themed attractions. Compare ages, ride requirements, the operating calendar and travel from Manhattan before reserving.

Rides beside the sea, within New York City. Luna Park in Coney Island combines coasters with a boardwalk day. Compare pay-per-ride tickets and the two wristband options; height restrictions and the seasonal calendar matter as much as price.

Indoor choices closer to the city. American Dream combines separately ticketed attractions under one roof. Choose the experience you want first; entering the complex does not include every ride, water attraction or activity.

Still deciding how much of the day to commit? Our NYC with kids guide compares shorter city outings with bigger excursions. Leave room for transport, food and rest rather than fitting another major attraction into the return journey.

The individual guides cover ticket extras and kosher meal planning. For Shabbat-observant families, choose an operating Sunday or weekday outside Jewish holidays, and keep Friday afternoon free for preparations.

A full day for coaster fans. Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey deserves a day of its own. Compare your group’s appetite for intense rides and the children’s height requirements before choosing it. The guide separates theme-park admission, Hurricane Harbor, parking and other extras, and explains why the return drive and kosher meal arrangements belong in the plan.

For a quieter escape, browse day trips and short getaways for Hudson Valley walks, history and coastal stays.