The historical seaside resort on the east end of Long Island, famously known as the Hamptons, is a dream destination for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. However, when you’re planning a family trip to the Hamptons, having plenty of family-friendly activities on schedule is a key concern.
Kids often get bored quickly, even on the most exciting of getaways, so you’ll want a variety of options to keep them occupied. Many visitors rent a house in the Hamptons and may spend a few weeks here, enjoying this unique are of New York and all it has to offer. Regardless of your time frame, make sure to plan a few of these family-friendly things to do to make the most of your Hamptons getaway this year.
1. Visit the Children’s Museum of the East End
Located in Bridgehampton, this museum is a hands-on adventure for young and older children alike. There are plenty of interactive activities for all ages to enjoy, and it’s also an ideal learning experience to keep their minds active during the summer months. Don’t worry — this museum is so fun that they won’t actually know they’re learning. Some of the top activities include taking charge of the fire engine or indoor tugboat. You can also enjoy family workshops and activities like mini-golf, which can be ideal for those unfortunate rainy days of vacation. Plan at least a few hours to explore the Children’s Museum of the East End, and you may find yourself visiting more than once during your stay.
2. Take the Shelter Island Ferry
For a full day of activities, start by taking the Shelter Island ferry from Greenport. This inexpensive ferry will take you to beautiful Shelter Island where you take in a day of hiking. Pack a lunch and take a hike through the Mashomack Preserve. This is a great hike for anyone who enjoys seeing the more natural side of New York, and you’ll get a good view of the serenity that still exists on the East End. If you’re really ambitious, you can even bring your bike and travel across the island to South Ferry. This trip takes most of the day, so pack plenty of snacks and drinks and be prepared for a memorable day in the Hamptons.
3. Visit the Baiting Hollow Farm Vineyard
Although it’s usually not considered family-friendly to visit a vineyard, you may be surprised that this spot is a great place to bring your kids for a day of fun and delicious eats outdoors. This premier winery allows you to enjoy some adult beverages while also serving as a horse rescue facility. Tour the area to learn about riding, equine culture, and animal rescue. If your kids want to try their hand at riding, sign them up for horse camp or riding lessons. You can bring a picnic here as well as the family dog, so pack a lunch and plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the grounds (and the wines).
4. Pick Your Own Berries
Fresh berries are one of the joys of summer so make a morning or afternoon stop at East End berry farms. You can choose your berry picking depending on the season and availability. Pick a few pints while you’re here and then bring them back home to enjoy with ice cream, on their own, or baked into a favorite dish. This is a great family-friendly activity!
5. Visit a Local Theatre
Theatre is an enjoyable activity for all ages, and the puppet theatre in the Hamptons is a great way to spend a few hours with your little ones. The Goat on a Boat puppet theatre is perfect for the younger kids, and it can be another ideal option if you experience rain on your getaway. The shows are fun and engaging for kids, and don’t be surprised if the adults in your group enjoy some laughs and entertainment too.
6. Take in the Racing Series
If you enjoy sailing, or simply being on the water, you’ll want to take in the Robin’s Island racing series. This activity takes place every summer from New Suffolk beachfront located on the North Fork. After learning some of the basics of sailing in the Hamptons, put your child’s enthusiasm on display. Your entire family will enjoy seeing how these light boats glide through the water. They stay close to shore, so they’re easy to see but you may want to bring binoculars to enjoy the fun a little more up close and personally.
7. Visit a Baseball Game
Baseball is one of the great joys of summer, and the amateur baseball team here is a low-stress game to take in. The Hamptons Collegiate Baseball teams play games often throughout the summer, so check out the schedule, plan your visit, and root for the home team.
These are just a few of the best family-friendly activities to enjoy while you’re here in the Hamptons. Whether your trip lasts for just a few days or you’ll be visiting for months, your family will have plenty of things to do to keep you and the little ones occupied. Chances are, you won’t be able to take in everything the Hamptons has to offer so you’ll have to come back and visit again to fit in all of the action this unique region has to offer.