Are you looking for things to do during Memorial Day Weekend? As Memorial Day Weekend approaches, we find ourselves looking forward to the unofficial start of summer and the long weekend!
This year, why not step away from the usual backyard barbecue and go discover all the fun activities that New York suburbs have to offer?
From spending the day at the beach to relaxing on a pontoon boat to kayaking on a lake to visiting an old-fashioned carnival- we have many fun ideas to fill your Memorial Day weekend!
Whether you’re planning a family outing or a day trip with friends, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the long weekend.
Here is a roundup of family-friendly Memorial Day Weekend activities that you’ll love, no matter your age. Even if you don’t have kids, you’ll find these Memorial Day weekend activities equally appealing.
Get ready to make the most out of the Memorial Day Weekend. Here are family friendly things to do in the New York suburbs of Connecticut, New York and New Jersey during Memorial Day weekend.
Things to Do in the New York Suburbs During Memorial Day Weekend
1. Make a Splash at Rye Playland Beach and Pool
This Memorial Day weekend, relax at the beach. Let your kids play in the sand while you enjoy the amazing views of Long Island Sound at Playland Beach in Rye, New York. The best part is, you don’t have to drive hours to go to the beach!
Cool off in the family pool with panoramic views of the Sound, and grab a snack from the brand new boardwalk shop.
Check out our Guide to Public Beaches in Westchester County
2. Kayak on the Saugatuck River and Dine Waterfront
Go kayaking in Westport. Navigate the gentle current of the Saugatuck River in Westport, CT, then enjoy a waterfront meal at The Boathouse at Saugatuck or Arezzo Ristorante.
Check out our Guide to the best Waterfront Restaurants in Connecticut
3. Old Fashioned Fun at Memorial Day Carnivals
If you’re after thrilling rides, kiddie rides, carnival food, and games, then the Memorial Day weekend carnivals in Paramus, NJ, and Long Island are perfect destinations.
Check out our guide to Memorial Day Carnivals in NJ and Memorial Day Carnivals in Long Island
4. Indulge in Seafood at a Roadside Shack in Connecticut
For a fun Memorial Day weekend dining experience, visit a roadside seafood shack in Connecticut. Enjoy mouthwatering lobster rolls and clam strips at popular spots like Overton’s or Knot Norms in Norwalk, CT.
Nothing screams summer quite like enjoying fresh seafood by the water. Stop by for ice cream at Mr. Frosty’s Ice Cream.
Check out our list of the Best Roadside Seafood Shacks in Connecticut
5. Embark on a Paddle Boat Excursion.
Set off on an excursion with brand new paddle boats at the Playland Lake in Rye, NY. Choose from an elegant swan or a fire-breathing dragon as your vessel and explore the tranquil waters under the sun.
6. Take a Pontoon Boat Ride on Candlewood Lake (CT).
A serene pontoon boat ride on Candlewood Lake is the perfect Memorial Day Weekend family outing. Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon relaxing on your pontoon. Add an inner tube to your pontoon rental- the kids will have a blast tubing!
Check out our Guide to Pontoon Boats and Kayak Rentals in the New York suburbs and our Guide to Candlewood Lake
7. Tour the Iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse
Take a ferry cruise to Sheffield Island Beach in Norwalk, CT, and marvel at the iconic Sheffield Island Lighthouse. The journey itself is as beautiful as the destination, making it a must-visit this Memorial Day weekend.
Check out our guide to Beaches in Connecticut
8. Enjoy a Day at Legoland New York
Let your imagination run wild with roller coasters, the Ninjago ride, and waterslides at Legoland‘s new water park. Consider checking into the Legoland Hotel for an immersive Lego experience.
9. Experience Carnival Fun at Rye Playland.
If you prefer old-fashioned carnival rides, then Rye Playland with over 40 attractions including a kiddie coaster, boat ride, carousel ride, bumper cars, and log ride is an ideal Memorial Day weekend activity.
10. Spend the Day at DreamWorks Waterpark in NJ
If your family enjoys water-based activities, then the DreamWorks Waterpark at the American Dream Mall is a great Memorial Day weekend activity. With a variety of fun slides and pools, it’s a guaranteed day of fun.
11. Discover the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium
Learn about Long Island Sound’s marine life- play with the sharks at the shark touch tank at the Norwalk Maritime Aquarium or watch the playful sea otters.
12. Visit the Stepping Stones Children’s Museum in Norwalk
Explore the captivating world of dinosaurs, engage in exciting water play activities, and unleash your energy in the outdoor courtyard. Spending a day at Stepping Stones Children’s Museum is the ideal activity for children to have a blast and make the most of their Memorial Day Weekend!
13. Indulge in Luxury Shopping on Greenwich Avenue in Connecticut
Shop til you drop at the Rodeo Drive of the New York Suburbs- Greenwich Avenue. Whether you prefer indulging in some window shopping or going on a full-blown shopping spree, Greenwich Avenue has it all.
Grab an ice cream at Van Leeuwen as a snack and dine alfresco at Harvest. If you’re lucky enough to get a seat, try the Happy Monkey, the new Connecticut restaurant from celebrity chef Jean Georges.
Check out the Best Restaurants in Greenwich, CT according to locals
14. Try Indoor Skiing at American Dream Mall
North America’s first indoor ski resort at the American Dream Mall offers a unique and exciting experience that’s not weather dependent. This makes it a perfect Memorial Day weekend activity, regardless of the forecast.
15. Go on a Trip to Japan at Mt. Fuji in Hilburn, NY
For a unique dining experience, consider heading to Mt. Fuji for a hibachi lunch or dinner. Nestled in the mountains, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled to Japan as you enjoy your meal and the breathtaking views.
16. Shop ‘Til You Drop at Woodbury Commons
After your hibachi lunch, continue your day by heading north to Woodbury Commons for some serious shopping. This outlet mall offers great deals on brand-name luxury apparel, bags, and designer goods.
17. Enjoy Calm Waters Kayaking at Tarrytown Lakes
Perfect for beginners and children, Tarrytown Lakes offers calm waters and rental kayaks for a peaceful family afternoon.
18. Immerse in Interactive Exhibits at the Westchester Children’s Museums
Build a roller coaster, experiment with a wind tunnel, and create in the MakerSpace- the Westchester Children’s museum offers a host of engaging activities that are both educational and fun. Afterward, stop by Rye Playland or take a dip at the Rye Playland Pool or Beach!
19. Explore the Renovated Bruce Museum in Greenwich, CT
The first science and art museum in the area, the newly renovated Bruce Museum in Greenwich, CT, is worth a visit. Check out the dinosaurs, minerals, giant penguins, and art exhibits.
20. Connect with Wildlife at Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo
If your kids love animals, consider a visit to Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo in Bridgeport, CT. This smaller, more manageable zoo is a great alternative to the larger Bronx Zoo, especially if you have young children. It’s a lot easier to see the animals in action!
21. Visit the Stamford Museum and Nature Center in Connecticut
Come face-to-face with farm animals at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center‘s Heckscher Farm. This 10-acre rural oasis boasts barns, a maple sugar house, an organic vegetable garden, open pastures, and dozens of farm animals. Don’t miss out on the river otters during your visit!
22. Enjoy a Memorial Day Parade in the New York Suburbs
What better way to commemorate Memorial Day than attending a local parade? Many towns in the New York suburbs hold annual parades, which are a great way to show your patriotic spirit.
Check out our guide to Memorial Day Parades in Westchester County and Memorial Day Parades in Fairfield County
23. Stroll the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway in Edgewater, NJ
For a serene family outing, head to the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway. Enjoy scenic views of the Manhattan skyline while the kids enjoy biking or scootering. This beautiful riverside esplanade provides a stunning backdrop for an afternoon stroll.
24. Experience the Scenic Hudson Riverwalk Park in Tarrytown, NY
If you’re on the New York side of the Hudson River, consider a visit to the Scenic Hudson Riverwalk Park in Tarrytown, NY. This riverside park offers breathtaking views of the river and Manhattan skyline. A great way to spend your Memorial Day weekend afternoon.
Bring a picnic lunch and afterward treat your family to dinner at nearby RiverMarket or go into town and have amazing Greek Food at Lefteris.
25. Spend Memorial Day at a Beer Garden in Westchester County, NY
For the adults in the family, enjoy a refreshing craft beer at the outdoor beer gardens of Captain Lawrence Brewing Company, located in Elmsford or Mount Kisco. They also offer a kids’ menu, making it a family-friendly Memorial Day weekend outing.
Check out our Guide to Outdoor Beer Gardens in Westchester County
26. Engage in Interactive Learning at Liberty Science Center in NJ
A visit to the Liberty Science Center is a perfect way to blend education and fun. Check out the Thomas and Friends exhibit, go on a dino dig, or explore the marine life of the Hudson River. Don’t miss the Infinity Climber, the world’s first suspended climbing play space of its kind.
27. Experience the Great Outdoors at Rye Nature Center
Take a hike and explore the beautiful grounds of the Rye Nature Center. Enjoy some playtime in the playground, but don’t forget to spray for ticks!
28. Visit a Farmers Market in the New York Suburbs
Make the most of your Memorial Day weekend by visiting a farmers market in the New York suburbs. Stock up on farm fresh fruits, vegetables, and homemade goodies. Not only will you feel good buying fresh fruits and vegetables, but you will also be supporting local artisans and farmers.
Check out our Guide to Farmers Markets Open on Memorial Day Weekend
These are just a few of the family-friendly Memorial Day weekend activities in the New York suburbs. Happy Memorial Day weekend!
You May Be Interested In:
Summer Carnivals in the New York Suburbs
Best Happy Hour in the Westchester and Fairfield County
Connecticut Beach Resorts for a Weekend Getaway (Yes, you don’t have to drive far to go to a beach resort!)
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