Top Cozy Resorts near NYC Perfect for Kids and Winter Fun

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Crystal Springs Resort offers tropical vibes indoors with plenty of seasonal fun outside, too. Photo courtesy of Crystal Springs Resort

Winter can be a magical season with holiday activities, frost-dusted landscapes, snowy activities, and relaxing fireside with a cup of hot cocoa. Families seeking a winter getaway with kids that's relatively close to NYC have lots of options. We've rounded up the 14 best winter retreats and resorts that are 4 hours or less from Midtown Manhattan by car.

For each winter getaway, we've highlighted why families love to go during the winter, kid-friendly amenities, and types of winter activities each resort or destination offers. From ski resorts in the Hudson Valley to all-inclusive winter resorts in the Poconos, you're sure to find the perfect winter getaway for your family.

If you're looking specifically for ski resorts near NYC, check out our guide to the best family-friendly ski areas near NYC and our comprehensive Guide to Skiing and Snow Sports, which offers more options in the tri-state area, New England, and even California. And, don't forget to check our Guide to Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways for all the information, tips, and advice you need when it's time to plan your family's next trip—no matter the season.

Our Sneak Peek at Elephant Valley (Spoiler: Kids Will Be Obsessed)

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Welcome to Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park!

I got to take a sneak peek at the new Elephant Valley at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, and I can sum it up in one word: WOW. I took my daughter with me to check it out, as she adores animals but has refused to visit zoos since she was a little girl. She hates seeing animals locked up in small enclosures. I do too. But, in keeping with the whole ethos of the San Diego Safari Park, the Elephant Valley is more of a biological preserve and conservation area than it is a traditional zoo. We were both so impressed—and thrilled!

It’s almost 13 acres of wandering, playful elephants. It’s educational, beautiful, and thoughtful—taking into account the needs and comfort of both elephants and humans. Here’s the scoop on the new Elephant Valley, including when it opens, what ages this is best for, and how much tickets cost.

For another animal adventure near San Diego, check out my visit to the Oasis Camel Dairy. For complete San Diego coverage, don't miss our San Diego Family Travel Guide.

Trains! Trains! Trains!, Jurassic Quest, and More Things to Do this Weekend in Atlanta with Kids

Elsa Simcik's picture Submitted by Elsa Simcik on

Train enthusiasts flock to Southern Museum this weekend for the popular model train display event. Photo courtesy Southern Museum

Looking for the best things to do in Atlanta this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list for this weekend! 

The event name says it all for train fanatics this weekend—Trains! Trains! Trains!, at the Southern Museum, features interactive model train layouts and train-themed activities. Dinosaur enthusiasts head to Cobb Galleria Centre for Jurassic Quest, an immersive walk-through experience with both baby and big dinosaurs, opportunities for fossil digging and a LEGO-themed play zone.  Plus, car buffs zoom down to Echo Park Speedway's FREE open house, with interactive fun and entertinament. Note: North Georgia may be hit hard with cold weather this weekend, so check social media and event websites before heading out due to potential cancellations.

Rock the Universe, Just for Kids Weekend, and More Things to Do in Orlando This Weekend With Kids

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SeaWorld Orlando's Just for Kids Weekend is a great time to connect children with watery fun! Photo by author

Looking for the best things to do in Orlando this weekend? Here are some family-friendly events and activities to add to your list!

Catch jaw-dropping stunts at the Garden Bros Nuclear Circus in Orlando, sing along at Rock the Universe at Universal Studios, or treat little ones to extra-special fun during Just for Kids Weekend at SeaWorld Orlando. You’ll also find free community favorites like Cops ’N Cars for Kids at Oviedo Mall and the culture-packed India Fair at Children’s Safety Village. Keep reading for all the details and start planning a weekend your family will love!

Hooray LA!, AMA Motorcross, and More Top Things To Do in Los Angeles This Weekend

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Hooray LA! is coming to Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Photo courtesy Bob Baker Marionette Theater

Looking for the best things to do in Los Angeles this weekend? Here are some of our favorite events and activities to add to your list this weekend

The forecasts are predicting sunny weather for this weekend in Los Angeles, and with that, America's weathercaster Al Roker brings his new PBS Kids series, Weather Hunters, to the Natural History Museum. The Year of the Horse has arrived at Disney California Adventure, so prepare to fill your belly with Disney spins on bao, tteokbokki, japchae noodles, phở dip, milk tea, and more. Don't forget to pose with Minnie and Mickey in their Asian-inspired outfits!

Kids can be entertained by Bob Baker's latest show, Hooray LA, dance up a storm at Debbie Allen Dance Academy's Dance Free Day, or watch AMA Motocross riders race for the finish line at Angel Stadium in Anaheim. 

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