Day Trips from New Haven
← All New Haven day tripsDay Trips from New Haven: Family Activities & Kid-Friendly Fun
The best family-friendly activities and kid-approved destinations within driving distance of New Haven, CT. Zoos, amusement parks, interactive museums, and outdoor fun the whole family will enjoy. Drive times, ratings, and budget estimates included.
12 family activities near New Haven
Ocean Wonders: Sharks!
Brooklyn, NY 11224
Just 1 hr 52 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 913 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.
The Adventure Park at the Discovery Museum
Bridgeport, CT 06604
Just 31 min from New Haven, rated 4.7 stars by 466 visitors, 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.
Essex County Turtle Back Zoo
West Orange, NJ 07052
Just 1 hr 56 min from New Haven, rated 4.6 stars by 14,243 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
Norwalk, CT 06854
Just 42 min from New Haven, 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.
Jenkinson's Aquarium
Point Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742
Just 2 hrs 38 min from New Haven, rated 4.6 stars by 5,279 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.
Safari Adventure
Riverhead, NY 11901
Just 2 hrs 17 min from New Haven, rated 4.5 stars by 425 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.
Woodbridge Aquarium & Wildlife
Woodbridge, NJ 07095
Just 2 hrs 5 min from New Haven, rated 4.5 stars by 8,674 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.
Area 53 - Adventure Park
Brooklyn, NY 11237
Just 1 hr 36 min from New Haven, 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.
The Dinosaur Place
CT-85, Oakdale
Just 53 min from New Haven, 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.
The Funplex
Mt Laurel Township, NJ 08054
Just 2 hrs 51 min from New Haven, 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.
Fantasy Forest Amusement Park
Corona, NY 11368
Just 1 hr 22 min from New Haven, 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 2 hrs 39 min from New Haven, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Activities Day Trips from New Haven
What are the best family activities near New Haven, CT?
The best family activities near New Haven 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 New Haven?
State parks, nature preserves, and many community attractions near New Haven 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 New Haven for rainy days?
Yes. Children's museums, aquariums, indoor water parks, and science centers near New Haven are all great rainy-day options. Look for "Family" tagged destinations above.
How far should I drive for a family day trip from New Haven?
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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