Rhinebeck, New York, is located in the Hudson Valley, about a two-hour drive north of New York City. The town, founded in 1686, boasts many historic buildings, such as The Beekman Arms, the country's oldest inn. Visiting families have limited options for kid-friendly activities within Rhinebeck, but the immediate area surrounding the town offers additional attractions that will keep children of any age engaged.
Located on the far north side of town, the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome has been in operation since 1959. This family-friendly museum offers an up-close view of antique airplanes, some of which were used in World War I, and has a selection of early-20th-century cars, motorcycles, engines and memorabilia. The aerodrome hosts an air show every weekend from mid-June to mid-October with old-fashioned airplanes flying overhead. Guests can take a ride in a bi-plane over the Hudson Valley during their visit to the museum.
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome
9 Norton Road
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
845-752-3200
oldrhinebeck.org
The Center for the Performing Arts at Rhinebeck, locally known as "The Center," features a number of musical and dramatic productions throughout the year that will keep the whole family entertained. The Center offers children's programs in addition to its regular performance schedule. After-school theater workshops, summer instruction and performance-based camps are all available for young ones who are interested in theater production. Typically, these programs involve both classes and performances, so kids learn about the behind-the-scenes details as well as how to get up on stage. The Center is also popular for field trips and holds classes in several local elementary schools.
The Center for the Performing Arts at Rhinebeck
661 Route 308
Rhinebeck, NY 12572
845-876-3088
centerforperformingarts.org
Greig Farm in Red Hook, a small town 8 miles north of Rhinebeck, produces fresh fruits and vegetables from mid-summer to late fall. Families can enjoy wandering through the farm grounds to pick fresh apples, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and pumpkins to take home. Visitors can also purchase pre-harvested produce at Gigi Market or wander through the Grandiflora Nursery to look at the fresh plants and flowers for sale. The farm offers all-natural products that include no systemic chemicals. Other kid-friendly attractions at Greig Farm include an area to pet and feed the goats and a pond filled with koi fish.
Greig Farm
223 Pitcher Lane
Red Hook, NY 12571
845-758-1234
greigfarm.com
Splash Down Beach is a large outdoor water park in Fishkill, about a 25-minute drive north of Rhinebeck. It features a large wave pool, several slides, a lazy river and a play area for little ones, so kids of all ages can enjoy this water park. A game room and bungee jump station are located on-site. Along the park's boardwalk are several eateries, including a Nathan's hot dog stand and Cosimo's Pizza--you can't bring food or drinks into the park. You can buy full- and half-day passes. The park is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Splash Down Beach
16 Old Route 9 W
Fishkill, NY 12524
845-897-9600
splashdownbeach.com
