Day Trips from Amherst
← All Amherst day tripsDay Trips from Amherst: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of Amherst, MA. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
11 family activities near Amherst
Family Jungle Entertainment
Westfield, MA 01085
Just 38 min from Amherst, rated 5.0 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Adventure River
MA 01001, USA
Just 43 min from Amherst, rated 4.6 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Norwalk, CT 06854
Just 2 hrs 4 min from Amherst, rated 4.6 stars by 7,364 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Mystic Aquarium
Mystic, CT 06355
Just 1 hr 51 min from Amherst, rated 4.5 stars by 17,529 visitors, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Adirondack Animal Land
Gloversville, NY 12078
Just 2 hrs 26 min from Amherst, rated 4.4 stars, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Dinosaur Place
CT-85, Oakdale
Just 1 hr 31 min from Amherst, rated 4.4 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Cape Cod Inflatable Park
West Yarmouth, MA 02673
Just 2 hrs 44 min from Amherst, rated 4.3 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
VIA Aquarium
Schenectady, NY 12306
Just 1 hr 57 min from Amherst, rated 4.3 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Xtreme Play Adventure Park — The #1 Source for Thrills and Arcade in Danbury
Danbury, CT 06811
Just 1 hr 56 min from Amherst, rated 4.2 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Fun Max Adventure Park
Wappingers Falls, NY 12590
Just 2 hrs 27 min from Amherst, rated 4.2 stars, family-friendly with activities for all ages.
Best time to visit: Summer and school breaks are busiest. Weekdays offer shorter lines and lower prices.
Fun World
Nashua, NH 03060
Just 1 hr 36 min from Amherst, rated 4.2 stars, known for excellent food, drink, and local flavor.
Best time to visit: Year-round, but harvest season (Sep-Oct) is peak for wineries and farm-to-table.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from Amherst
What are the best family activities near Amherst, MA?
The best family activities near Amherst include zoos, children's museums, amusement parks, state parks with easy trails, and interactive science centers. Check the cards above for top-rated spots with real drive times.
What are cheap things to do with kids near Amherst?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near Amherst are free or under $15 per person. Pack a picnic and make a day of it. Check the budget estimates on each card above.
Are there indoor family activities near Amherst for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near Amherst are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from Amherst?
For families with young kids, 1-2 hours is the sweet spot. Longer drives (2-3 hours) work well with older kids and are worth it for standout destinations like major zoos or amusement parks.
Don't know where to go?
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