New York Staycation: 7 Fun Things to Do While Staying Close to Home

Natural wonders and big city thrills are among the many options available for families planning a vacation or staycation in New York. 

Here are seven great places to visit in the Empire State, including three in New York City:

1. A boat ride in an underground cave is among the many attractions families on vacation or staycation can enjoy. Howe Caverns is located 40 miles west of Albany. Visitors can access through a 156 foot descent by elevator and includes an area where children may touch stalactites and stalagmites.

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2. The American Museum of Firefighting in Hudson displays a "tremendous" variety of firefighting vehicles, memorabilia and equipment. "There are a number of trucks to climb on, equipment to dress up and pretend to be a firefighter, and knowledgeable staff to help." The museum offers youngsters between three and 10 a chance to complete a junior firefighter challenge course.

3. Niagara Falls has about 22 million yearly visitors. Located on the border of the United States and Canada,  this attraction is known to be breathtaking and more accessible than many major waterfalls. In addition to the awe-inspiring waterfall, Niagara Falls offers a huge amount of activities the whole family will enjoy, including an amusement park and a butterfly conservatory.

4. Allegany State Park in western New York is the Empire State's largest state park, with more than 65,000 acres of forest. The park also offers sand beaches, museums and trails, including one of the finest groomed cross-country skiing and mountain biking trails in the nation.

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5. People from all over the world visit New York City's Times Square every year. Known for its flashing lights and Broadway shows, the square's offerings for children include a 110,000-square-foot Toys R Us store where visitors can ride on a Ferris wheel, see a life-size T-Rex model, walk through Barbie's house and test out an assortment of products. Madame Tussaud's wax museum in Times Square allows children and families on vacation or staycation the opportunity to get up close to models of their favorite stars, including Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift.

6. The Statue of Liberty is considered a must see for families on vacation or staycation. Nearly 4 million people visit the 152 foot statue annually, which was unveiled in 1886 as a gift from France to celebrate a shared belief in freedom and liberty. Children often experience a sense of wonder upon first seeing Lady Liberty up close.

7. New York City's Central Park is an "oasis of tranquility in the midst of a city that is sometimes less-than-peaceful," writes a reviewer on Trekaroo. The park sees more than 40 million visitors a year and stretches across more than 850 acres of prime Manhattan real estate. Attractions include riding a horse-drawn carriage, climb to the top of the 19th century Belvedere Castle or take in the breathtaking view of all the skyscrapers above. 

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