Ugh. Sometimes the thought of packing suitcases, tracking down lodging for the family pet, upending the schedule and foregoing veggies for days at a time seems like far too much to bear. That’s when you know it’s time to hunker down for a family staycation close to Bergen County. But you still have to entertain the troops while they’re on school break. If you’re hanging around this weekend, check out these Staycation Day Trips that will make you glad you stuck close to home.
You’ve had a lazy day at home but now it’s late afternoon and everyone need and outing. Load them into the car and head to Sea of Light in the Seaport District. This immersive sensory adventure features interactive sculptures that respond to movements. Best seen after dark, this public art project is on display every day through March 2018. Walk through the exhibit and watch as it responds to your movements, or time your visit to coincide with one of the choreographed hourly music light shows. The Seaport District, 19 Fulton Street, New York.
Take a break from reading your favorite Eric Carle classics and instead, watch as they come to life in the form of 75 amazing puppets. Not only will you see the caterpillar in action in this 55 minute show, but you’ll also get to enjoy Brown Bear, Brown Bear, 10 Little Rubber Ducks and The Very Lonely Firefly. VIP and Premium tickets are available and include special seating, a book, tote bag and photo op with the caterpillar. Discounted lap seating, “autism friendly shows” and a quiet area for nervous attendees make this the perfect first theater experience for your very littlest patrons of the arts. DR2 Theater, 103 East 15th Street, New York.
Visit the Intrepid during Kids Week (February 18 – 24) and explore the theme that Science is Everywhere as kids look for science in their favorite places, from the basketball court to their back yard. Kids can design a Rube Goldberg machine, meet a kangaroo, create a comic book, explore interactive displays, view live demonstrations and meet special guests at this week-long festival. All Kids Week programming is free with Museum admission. Intrepid Museum, Pier 86, West 46th St and 12th Ave, New York.
National Geographic Ocean Odyssey
So, you’ve swum with the dolphins and you dream of someday diving into a tank at an aquarium to help them feed the fish. Until that day arrives, satisfy your yearning for the sea with the new National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey. This 90-minute walk-through exhibit uses cutting edge technology, photo real animation, projection screens and interactive technology to enable visitors to have face-to-face virtual encounters with a variety of sea life, all without ever getting even the slightest bit damp. National Geographic Encounter, West 44th between 7th and 8th, New York.
The “Largest Virtual Reality Center on this side of the planet”, VR World has opened in New York City. Spread over 3 levels, with over 50 diverse experiences, this place is a dream for the technology set. Buy a ticket for two hours or a full day, get your synched wristband, and pick your adventure. Oh, but wear comfortable clothes – you’ll be moving around a lot. And realize that no one can really rock the VR headsets better than you! VR World, 4 East 34th Street, New York
Want to see stars? Visit the newly opened Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium at Liberty Science Center for shows like Wonders of the Night Sky and To Worlds Beyond that explore the galaxy and the planets with the help of the giant dome. Then find out where you would be stationed on the Star Trek Spaceship Enterprise in The Starfleet Academy Experience. For the little ones, Big Bird and friends will take them to the Big Dipper and beyond in One World, One Sky. Then, they can become hands-on astronauts with a stop at Space Station Liberty or Really Useful as they Explore the Rails with Thomas and Friends, all before naptime. Liberty Science Center, Liberty State Park, Jersey City
But if maybe one overnight sounds manageable, check out the Millennium Hilton locations Downtown and at UN Plaza for a family-friendly, doesn’t-break-the-bank getaway. On a recent visit to the downtown location at 55 Church Street, we were greeted by a friendly staff member at the check-in desk and escorted to our room with a view. Set in the corner on a high floor, we had sweeping city night views with the water and Long Island in the distance. The hotel is conveniently located adjacent to the breathtaking new Oculus, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and the always enjoyable Brookfield Place. Go soon to take advantage of the ice rink with views overlooking the harbor and the Statue of Liberty. Our visit to the Millennium Hilton was far too short but we enjoyed our family time and the price was definitely right! Downtown - 55 Church Street or UN Plaza – One United Nations Plaza
