The Best Family-Friendly Activities to Do Around Tuxedo
Planning a family getaway doesn't have to mean choosing between adventure and relaxation, or that you even need to stick to amusement parks and pizza spots. The area surrounding Tuxedo, New York, is a hidden gem packed with a surprising variety of activities that will keep even the busiest of toddlers entertained.
Whether you’re looking to explore world-class outdoor art, dive into the fascinating history of classic motorcycles and steam engines, or simply spend a sunny afternoon picking fresh produce on a local farm, this region has it all. With stunning state parks and unique cultural landmarks just a short drive from Tuxedo, there is always something new to discover.
Here are the best family-friendly activities to do around Tuxedo.
If you love art that changes with the seasons…
Spend the day at Storm King Art Center
Located in nearby New Windsor, Storm King Art Center is a world-renowned open-air museum where massive sculptures are integrated into 500 acres of rolling hills and woodlands. It’s a premier destination for families who want to combine a love of art with a day spent outdoors in the fresh air.
Visit for:
A stunning collection of more than 100 carefully sited sculptures by some of the most influential artists of the 20th and 21st centuries.
A variety of ways to explore the expansive grounds, including walking paths, a seasonal tram, and bike rentals.
An outdoor café that provides a selection of locally sourced sandwiches, salads, and snacks, making it easy to stay for a full afternoon.
If you just want to get outside for a hike…
Don’t miss Bear Mountain and Harriman State Parks.
Bear Mountain State Park is a hub of activity that combines rugged hiking with classic family recreation. It is one of the most visited parks in the state due to its diverse facilities and iconic Hudson River views.
Visit for:
Features the Trailside Museums & Zoo, where families can see local wildlife like black bears and bald eagles along a section of the Appalachian Trail.
Offers a wealth of seasonal activities, including a large outdoor swimming pool, an ice-skating rink, and a beautiful wooden carousel featuring hand-painted park animals.
Provides accessible scenic spots like the paved path around Hessian Lake and the drive up to Perkins Memorial Tower for 360-degree views of the Highlands.
Harriman State Park, the second-largest park in the state system, serves as a true "hiker's park" with over 200 miles of trails and 31 pristine lakes and reservoirs. It offers a more expansive, wilderness-focused experience compared to the bustling atmosphere of Bear Mountain.
Visit for:
Contains a vast network of trails ranging from easy woodland walks to the famous "Lemon Squeezer" rock scramble, catering to every skill level.
Boasts several public beaches and boat launches, such as those at Lake Tiorati and Lake Welch, which are perfect for summer swimming and kayaking.
Home to numerous historic lean-tos and campsites, making it a premier destination for those looking to try an overnight backpacking trip.
If you’re looking for a more offbeat museum…
Check out the Motorcyclepedia Museum and the Maybrook Railroad Museum
Motorcyclepedia Museum in Newburgh is a massive destination featuring over 600 motorcycles, including rare military bikes and the famous "Wall of Death" thrill shows. Nearby, the Maybrook Railroad Museum celebrates the village's history as a major rail hub, showcasing vintage equipment, photographs, and cabooses that bring the golden age of steam to life. Located in a historic building that served the New Haven Railroad, the museum is staffed entirely by volunteers. The two museums are only about 20 minutes away, so it’s easy to see one in the morning, stop off for lunch, and check out the other one in the afternoon.
Visit for:
Motorcycles from the late 1800s to the present, including a dedicated gallery for Indian motorcycles and rare military police bikes.
An educational look at the mechanical evolution of two-wheeled transport, making it a hit for both engineering enthusiasts and families with curious kids.
An impressive array of authentic railroad artifacts, including vintage signaling equipment, historic photographs, and meticulously maintained cabooses that visitors can explore at Maybrook.
If you’re looking for a farm fresh experience…
Stop by Blooming Hill Farm
Located in nearby Monroe, Blooming Hill Farmis a beloved destination that perfectly captures the spirit of the Hudson Valley’s farm-to-table movement. This working farm offers a rustic and educational atmosphere where families can see exactly where their food comes from while enjoying the fresh air of the sprawling property.
Visit for:
Their popular farm stand and a scratch-kitchen restaurant that serves seasonal dishes made with produce grown directly on-site and sourced from local partners.
Expansive outdoor seating areas where guests can dine among the fields, and a very kid-friendly environment with plenty of room to explore.
Weekend events, such as farm markets and outdoor pizza nights (check their website for details!)
Discover More at The Village at Tuxedo Reserve
Explore more of the Hudson Valley lifestyle at The Village at Tuxedo Reserve — a new town center bringing together experiential dining, boutique retail, outdoor recreation, and community just 30 miles from Manhattan.