Top 10 North Fork destinations ripe for summer fun with kids
When it comes to family-friendly summer, the North Fork is better than summer anywhere else. Yep, big statement, I know. But I firmly stand by it. From beaches in every direction to camps of every kind to countless things to do, see, and explore, the North Fork rivals any top vacation destination. Here are 10 picks for North Fork fun with kids to check out this summer.
Greenport Carousel, Mitchel Park Marina, Greenport
100-year-old antique carousel, newly restored, overlooking Greenport Harbor. Try your luck at catching the golden ring for a free ride. Open daily through summer. $3/single ride or $30/15-ticket bulk purchase. Current hours are Sunday through Friday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. While you’re visiting Mitchel Park with your crew, check out Camera Obscura and Monday Night Dances in the Park.
Harbes Family Farm, Mattituck
Listen, we get that this agritainment hotspot gets Disney-style crowded, but we love it, nonetheless! Farm animals, pedal cars, obstacle courses, bounce pads, festivals, food, wine, and non-stop fun keep us coming back time and time again. Best of all, this spot is perfect for kids of all ages, from tiny to tween. Current hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Ticketing and admission info here.
Greenport Express Miniature Railroad, Greenport
Take a ride on the Greenport Express — a 16-gauge, 1954 locomotive miniature railroad nestled on Moores Lane in Greenport. The train ride, which includes two loops on the track, costs $6/person. Tickets can be bought on-site via credit card. The train will run every 15 minutes on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Greenport Express is made possible by the Greenport Rotary.
Waterdrinker North Fork, Riverhead
The newest family fun farm to the North Fork scene, Waterdrinker North Fork has tons of things for people of all ages, from mini golf to bounce pads to giant wooden climbing structures. Current hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. Admission costs $20/person. Purchase tickets to the Family Farm Adventure here. The on-site food truck on Saturdays and Sundays makes lunch a no-brainer.
Splish Splash Water Park, Calverton
Suit up for a day of water play. This sprawling water adventure park features waterslides and pools for people of all ages. Their new Stingray Bay was designed with your youngest in mind and includes three pint-sized water slides, six interactive spray features, five water play features, a dump bucket, and more. Pro tip: head to Splish Splash on a warm but cloudy, drizzly day for minimal lines and wait times. Currently open weekdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Ticketing info here.
Drossos Mini Golf, Greenport
Nothing says summer like a round of mini golf followed by ice cream at the snack bar. The place? Drossos in Greenport. The nostalgic charm makes this spot super special, and the ice cream never misses. Check their Facebook page for up-to-date hours of operation.
Long Island Aquarium, Riverhead
From the outside, the Long Island Aquarium is unassuming, but there’s so much to see and learn about once you’re inside. The aquarium’s unique experiences and aquatic adventures are also interactive and engaging for all. The aquarium is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Tickets and info here.
Wednesday Night Races at New Suffolk Waterfront, New Suffolk
If you want to experience “real” North Fork, head to the New Suffolk Waterfront with your crew on a Wednesday evening around 5:30 p.m. There, you’ll join others as you watch Peconic Bay Sailing Association’s Wednesday Night Races where a mix of seasoned sailors and newcomers take part in an informal race around Robins Island. While you watch the races, families spill onto the Waterfront wharf and lawn, bringing with them picnic dinners. New this year, you’ll also discover kids’ activities organized by the New Suffolk Waterfront Fund from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Look out for the complete details coming soon to Petite North Fork.
Sandy Falls Mini Golf, Riverhead
Upon stepping foot on the pristine grounds of Sandy Falls Mini Golf, you’ll notice that this mini course is visually unlike the rest. Gimmicky animations and colorful obstacles are left out. Instead, at Sandy Falls, you’ll find an expertly manicured course featuring natural materials and a touch of East End icons. The cost to play is $16/adult, $12/kids 12 and under, and all replays are $10/person. More info and hours of operation here.