For the daredevil or water-slide fan in you family, the Northeast offers a wild selection of amusement and water parks. The Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, New Jersey, not only features a 350-acre drive-through safari that is home to more than a thousand exotic animals, but also the thrilling Hurricane Harbor water park. As of 2011, the park is closed for the season until April 9. For chocolate lovers, Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, will tempt the entire family's sweet tooth with more than 60 chocolate-themed rides and attractions.
A trip to a museum can be both exciting and educational. The Northeast offers a wide array of historical and scientific attractions that cater to both kids and adults. The American Museum of Natural History in New York City boasts 46 permanent exhibition halls that feature murals, artifacts and stuffed animal specimens from across the world. For younger children, the Children's Museum & Theatre of Maine in Portland features interactive exhibits, engaging plays and loads of fun activities. The budding scientist in your family will be thrilled with the Connecticut Science Center. With its 150 hands-on exhibits, 3-D digital theater and four educational labs, the center will stimulate and entertain kids.
Families with children of all ages can enjoy short walks or day hikes in the Northeast national parks. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail, which stretches from Maine, through the entire Northeast and down to Georgia, offers scenic hills, woods and mountains landscapes. In Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Park, walk through Vermont's most beautiful areas, which showcase sugar maples, 400-year-old hemlocks, covered bridges and stone walls, all while learning about the history of the area. For those who love to camp, the White Mountain National Forest in Maine and New Hampshire covers a sprawling forest area that features many campsites and recreational activities.
Zoos make great affordable day trips that can be enjoyed within city centers. New York City is host to the Bronx Zoo and the New York Aquarium. The Bronx Zoo, the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States, is home to many indoor and outdoor exhibits that house giraffes, gorillas, lions and a wide variety of other exotic creatures. At the New York Aquarium, families can view more than 350 species of aquatic wildlife, including dolphins, whales and sharks. Pennsylvania also offers many zoos, with animal preserves located in both Pittsburgh and Philadelphia.
