Delving into Ulster County, New York with children can be a wonderful experience for a weekend getaway. Take the kids through upstate New York with our proposed day trip and experience animals, spectacular views and bring home some fresh picked apples for an unforgettable fall day with the family.

NOTE: Be sure to double check availability dates as some of these activities are time sensitive and only available during certain dates.

This impressive 110-Acre facility houses over 300 rescued farm animals. Many are free range so pull into the parking lot slowly as the sanctuary claims you’re likely to have a chicken try to hop in your car! Tours last just under an hour and a half and start every 30 minutes. The tour covers the history and mission of the animal sanctuary as well as up close and personal time with many different kinds of animals. According to the facility, “information on the plight of farmed animals is shared honestly but with sensitivity to the ages of those on your tour.” They welcome questions and children of any age will have plenty to enjoy, however those with a particular interest in animals and/or charity work will be in for a special treat. It is a walking tour so comfortable shoes are recommended and food is forbidden on the grounds, however it is allowed and even provided in the visitors center.

Show Your Family What Ulster County Has To Offer

Enjoy some unique fall fun by picking your own apples or pumpkins in a perfect family activity for children of any age. This farm has so much to offer including fresh pressed cider and homemade pies as well as hayrides on the weekends. Take advantage of their picnic grounds and enjoy a midday meal on the grounds of a working orchard with spectacular view of the Shawangunk and Catskill Mountains. Pick your own apples starts September 12th and pumpkins are available starting September 26th with both running through October. See their schedule online to find out when specific varietals are available to ensure a chance at your favorite type of apple, from MacIntosh to Empires to Golden Delicious. Enjoy the fun and take in the scenery while leaving with a delicious treat or two and stories to last a lifetime.

End the day by watching the sunset from one of New York State’s most impressive vantage points. Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is the brainchild of a nonprofit organization who conceived of the idea to turn a historic railway bridge into a pedestrian park. Through fundraising the dream became reality in October of 2009. Now the 212 foot, 1.2 mile long bridge is the longest, elevated pedestrian bridge in the world. It offers  breathtaking view of the surrounding area and is open year round, weather permitting. Simply walking the bridge and taking in the views is an experience in itself, however for those looking to do more the grounds offer great opportunities for picnicking and bird watching, as well as more active modes of transport such as jogging, biking, roller skating and dog walking. For those travelling with very young children (especially at the end of a long day) the climb may be a bit much, however an elevator to the top is available. If this is a priority, call ahead to the elevator answering service at 845-834-3641 to check status and make sure it is currently in working order.