Things to do in the Hudson Valley: Affordable activities for families

By Joseph Gonzalez

Are you considering giving your family a fun vacation, but aren’t able to dish out money to go to expensive destinations? According to a poll published by Bank Rate this is more common than one might think. Places like Disney World aren’t exactly the easiest to access, especially if you have more than one child. Luckily, there happens to be one general area with many affordable things to do: the Hudson Valley in New York. From Orange County to Kingston to Goshen, there’s a variety of places to visit. Many of them are not only affordable for the whole family, but also a fun time for all ages and tastes. Your bank won’t be broken with these affordable family activities in Hudson Valley, NY.

Affordable family activities in Hudson Valley NY

Orange County, NY Heritage Trail

Let’s start with the most affordable family activities in the Hudson Valley–free. The Heritage Trail is a walking/biking trail that stretches 18 miles throughout Orange County, NY. Even those who aren’t big on walking/running can get a kick out of this.

This trail has a couple simple rules (walkers/runners on one side, cyclists on the other) but once you’re on it, you won’t want to get off it. The website page itself says how the “current 18 mile trail winds through a bird/wildlife sanctuary, historic landmarks, murmuring streams, rolling meadows and friendly communities.”

Whether you’re looking out at acres of fields, or observing the suburbs of Orange County, there’s gorgeous views on the whole trail.

Any part of where the trail has an entryway, parking is free! 

Hudson River Kayak Rentals

The Hudson River has 13,000 square miles of water to traverse. While the Hudson River isn’t the kind of river where you can just take a dip in any spot, it’s the kind that allows for many fun activities with your family.

Kayaking is a very popular activity on the Hudson River, and it’s one that’s cheap as well. A Day Away Kayak Rentals in Kingston, NY can be an ideal place to start your kayaking journey with your family. 

Kayaks, canoes, and stand up paddleboards are all available, with prices starting at $20 per person. And of course, all life jackets are complimentary. So even if you do accidentally fall, not only will you be safe, but it could be a nice cool-off from the hot weather.

LEGOLAND New York Theme Park in Goshen

Opening about only a year ago, LEGOLAND New York is now a top option for family entertainment in upstate New York. About 60 miles north of NYC, in Goshen, NY, you’ll find an amusement park that has fun for the whole family. 

Not only does LEGOLAND have rides, 4D shows, and restaurants, but there’s also a hotel you can stay at. There’s even ticket packages that come with a hotel room. This option is the most expensive on our list, but a trip here would still be a fraction of traveling/going to some of the more popular summer destinations. Keep an eye out for ticket and package deals on their website to defray costs even more.

Why visit the Hudson Valley

The summer is right around the corner! For many, this means the kids will be out of school, and back home to spend their summer (and potentially wreak havoc). And of course, they’ll likely be asking to go on extravagant vacations, ones that could potentially make you afraid to look at your bank account. 

Discover a myriad of affordable family activities in Hudson Valley, NY, in the summer and all seasons. Since so many of these activities are affordable, this can be a summer destination that your family will love.

Looking for more things to do in the Hudson Valley? Check out more Hudson Valley things-to-do below!