While some people bemoan the end of summer, I have always preferred the fall: cooler, less humid weather, changing leaves, apple picking, pumpkin spice, and football.

Plus the kids are back in school; and if your kids are like mine, that just makes them more anxious to get outside. So why not take them on a nature hike, where they can blow off steam and you can enjoy the natural splendor of autumn. With that in mind, here are some great fall hikes for families in and around Westchester County.

And for more seasonal fun, be sure to see our guide to fall fun in Westchester.

A one-of-a-kind destination has opened in Northern Connecticut that is unlike anything else your kids have ever seen, offering reptile encounters and more. For kids who love reptiles, you can now find tropical slithering snakes, ambling turtles, and sauntering alligators all in one place. This serpentarium—a living reptile museum—offers exhibits, educational programming, live shows, and a chance to hold reptiles.

For more places to see animals up close, explore our list of petting zoos and farms.

Living in Atlanta has many perks: impressive museums, appetizing restaurants, and boundless shopping. But sometimes the noise and congestion that often come with big city life gets to be too much. Parents may find they want to breathe fresh air, listen to the birds sing, and get back to nature—Atlanta hiking answers that need.

Fortunately, you don’t have to travel outside the city for a brief respite. With its dense tree canopy, the metro Atlanta area offers many parks and nature preserves to explore the outdoors with your little ones. Visit these natural areas on our Atlanta hiking list and you'll forget you’re still in a city of over 6 million people.

Sometimes, even the most dedicated parents need a break. Craft beer has become increasingly popular in the past decade, prompting a surge in the opening of local breweries, gastropubs and restaurants. These family-friendly breweries and restaurants are a great compromise. Parents can wind down without having to find a babysitter, and kids can have fun in an exciting, new atmosphere. 

At these charming establishments, parents can enjoy a regular beer offering or a seasonal specialty. If wine is your drink of choice, however, don't miss our guide to kid-friendly wineries on the East End.

Hailed as one of the wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a must-see destination for families. Its breathtaking beauty and wonder can't be overstated...and yeah, the pictures never do it justice. But planning a family vacation to Niagara Falls can be a little overwhelming, including trying to decide where to stay, which sights to see, what to do, and how to avoid the crowds. My family and I recently visited the falls, and we've got all the information you'll need to plan a successful trip with the kids. 

Find more family travel ideas with our upstate New York travel guide or our National Parks Travel Guide.

The Nutmeg State is home to 110 state parks, which means there's a lot of outdoor adventure to be had from swimming to hiking and camping. We've compiled a list of favorite state parks to visit with children, taking into consideration terrain, views, access to restrooms, and other amenities or attractions associated with each destination. For wee ones, consider our suggestions for 1-mile hikes and fantastic stroller hikes. To challenge older children, plan a trek up a mountain. Grab your hiking shoes, pack snacks, and enjoy the park views and fresh air. 

Crisp air and crunchy leaves signal the arrival of fall in Philadelphia, and a family hiking trip is one great way to get a load of both. Philly's vibrant, bustling city life is surrounded by serene parks, trails and nature preserves that make the perfect destinations for a kid-friendly fall hike.

There are plenty of hiking trails near Philly to accommodate family members of all ages. Babies can take in the sights from a stroller or strapped to your body, while you encourage little walkers to play fall leaf bingo as they trot along. Some of the more challenging hiking trails are great fits for tweens and teens. 

So read on for some of the best fall hikes for families in Philly and the suburbs. For more great treks across the state, check out our roundup of the best Pennsylvania state parks. And to really make the most of autumn, don't miss 50 Fun Fall Activities to Do with Kids, loaded with festivals, corn mazes, pumpkin patches, and more.

Ahoy there, mateys! Legoland Florida’s newest fully immersive hotel–Pirate Island Hotel–opened to the public just last year. My family recently got a chance to visit for my son’s birthday, and we had a blast. It is a great addition to the other two onsite hotels: the attached Legoland Hotel and the nearby Legoland Beach Retreat. Read on to discover all the cool details about Legoland Pirate Island Hotel, and how to squeeze as much fun in your hotel stay, brick by brick (get it)!