Looking to do something a little different this weekend (or with the next school day off)? Plan a day trip and explore a new attraction or destination. These easy day trips from Bucks County range in travel time from about 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and 90 minutes away by car. Leave in the morning and be back home by dinner — or sooner.

Looking for more ideas? Check out 10 Great Summer Day Trips for Main Line Families and Venture Out: Perfect Long Weekend Getaways from Philadelphia.

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30 Minutes or Less from Bucks County

Looking for a quick family adventure that doesn’t require spending hours in the car? Find exciting destinations just 30 minutes or less from Bucks County, perfect for a spontaneous day trip.

Ringing Rocks

Ringing Rocks Road, Upper Black Eddy

Tucked away in Upper Black Eddy, Ringing Rocks Park is a must-visit attraction for Bucks County families. The 128-acre park is known for its boulders that “ring” when struck with a hammer (bring your own). A short hike further down takes you to High Falls, Bucks County’s largest waterfall (although to be honest, it’s not that large and it only flows after heavy rain. It’s a lovely hike nonetheless). Pair the experience with a picnic lunch for the perfect outing.

Note: The boulders are challenging to traverse. Little ones will need a hand to hold while scrambling over the rocks.

Howell Living History Farm

70 Woodens Lane, Lambertville, NJ

Take a trip back to the 1900s at Howell Living History Farm in Lambertville. Here, you’ll find engaging, educational programs that reflect the real-life, seasonal activities of a working farm. Help around the farm, enjoy the gorgeous views, and shop homemade delights for a fun-filled day with kids of all ages.

Have a little extra time? Lambertville has a walkable downtown with lots of interesting shops and great places to eat. It is especially festive at Halloween.

The Bucks County Children’s Museum

500 Union Square Drive, New Hope

One of the best indoor play spaces in Bucks County, the recently renovated Bucks County Children’s Museum is a hands-on, 10,000-square-foot facility designed for children 12 months through about 7 years old. Kids can play doctor in The Hospital, stock the shelves at the Weis Grocery Store, get behind the wheel at the Big Oak Service Station, explore the accessible Treehouse and step back in time at George’s Inn, an exhibit inspired by life in 1776. While food is not allowed in the galleries, families can enjoy a packed lunch in the multipurpose room or outdoor picnic area.

Note: Museum reservations are required on weekends. For some extra fun, explore downtown New Hope and the Delaware Canal Trail.

Nockamixon State Park

1542 Mountain View Drive, Quakertown

Centrally situated between Quakertown and Doylestown, Nockamixon State Park offers ample outdoor adventures, including swimming, hiking, biking, disc golfing, and boating. It’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon or early summer morning with the family, and overnight camping is an option for longer stays. The park is open every day of the year, sunrise to sunset. Day use areas close at dusk.

Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve

1635 River Road, New Hope

Did you know the nation’s only living museum dedicated to native plants is right here in Bucks County? Bowman’s Hill Wildflower Preserve in New Hope is a beautiful place to explore, with more than 700 acres of woods, meadows and trails showcasing the region’s native flora. In a single visit, you can take an “I-Spy” hike, meander through the spiral-shaped labyrinth nestled among the trees, or look for turtles at Founder’s Pond.

30-60 Minutes from Bucks County

Crayola Experience

30 Centre Square Circle, Easton

Crayola Experience in downtown Easton is packed with more than 20 hands-on activities where kids can create, play and get a little messy. Make your own personalized crayon, turn melted wax into a colorful work of art, bring a Model Magic creation to life in the new Movie Studios, or let the CrayolaBot turn you into a cartoon character. Kids can also color and wash their own Scribble Scrubbies pet, splash and play at the Water Works, burn off energy at Stomp and Play, and explore the toddler-friendly Toddler Town.

Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid (most of) the crowds.

Northlandz

495 US-202, Flemington, NJ

Featured in the Guinness Book of World Records for its 8-mile model railroad, Northlandz in Flemington, New Jersey, is a must-visit for train lovers. More than 100 miniature trains wind through a sprawling wonderland of mountains, bridges, tunnels, buildings and tiny towns, with plenty of intricate details to discover along the way. On weekends, you can also hop aboard the outdoor miniature train for a ride through the grounds.

Riverbend Environmental Education Center

1950 Spring Mill Rd, Gladwyne

Riverbend Environmental Education Center’s 30-acre preserve is an island of green surrounded by a bustling, suburban community not far from Philadelphia. Open and free to the public from dawn to dusk every day of the year, Riverbend invites visitors to walk the trails and explore the grounds. In addition to the trails, the preserve boasts meadow, woodland, stream and pond habitats.

Elmwood Park Zoo

1661 Harding Blvd., Norristown

Get up close to dozens of wild and endangered species at Elmwood Park Zoo, a perfectly shaded, 16-acre destination in Norristown. Families can see animals from around the world and enjoy a variety of kid-friendly activities, animal encounters, and events throughout the week, including the opportunity to feed giraffes.

Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom

3830 Dorney Park Road, Allentown

Another great option for thrill seekers is Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown. The sprawling amusement park has something for everyone, from adrenaline-pumping coasters like Steel Force and Talon to family-friendly rides and shows. Younger visitors can head to Snoopy’s Playland, where Peanuts characters, pint-sized rides, and kid-friendly adventures await.

When the temperatures rise, cool off at Wildwater Kingdom with water slides, a wave pool, and plenty of splash-filled fun.

60-90 Minutes from Bucks County

Venturing 60 to 90 minutes from Bucks County opens the door to even more family fun and exploration. These day trips offer just enough distance to feel like a true adventure.

Land of Make Believe

354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ

The Land of Make-Believe has short lines, affordable prices, and a wholesome atmosphere — plus some of the best french fries and fudge around. So gather the family, swimsuits, and sunscreen for a full day of family-fun at this awesome attraction.

Bushkill Falls

138 Bushkill Falls Trail, Bushkill

Known as “The Niagara of Pennsylvania,” Bushkill Falls is among the Keystone State’s most famous scenic attractions. This unique series of eight waterfalls, nestled deep in the wooded Pocono Mountains, is accessible through a network of hiking trails and bridges that afford fabulous views of the falls and the surrounding forest. For extra family-fun, be sure to check out their maze and mining for gemstones attractions.

If visiting with young children, note that Bushkill Falls is not stroller-friendly.

Lehigh Valley Zoo

5150 Game Preserve Road, Schnecksville

Located in the heart of the Trexler Nature Preserve, the Lehigh Valley Zoo is home to more than 325 animal ambassadors representing over 125 species. You can learn about the Zoo’s conservation efforts by visiting the Zoo’s Reptile & Amphibian Discover Center, watching a daily African Penguin feeding, and observing a real life wolf feed. The zoo also hosts a variety of themed events throughout the year.

Historic Crystal Cave

963 Crystal Cave Rd., Kutztown, PA

The Historic Crystal Cave is an incredible underground cave known for its abundance of milky white formations that give it its name. During your visit, courteous guides will lead you 125 feet underground. The one-hour tour includes a movie in the Crystal Cave Theater, presenting the history of Pennsylvania’s First Show Cave. While the cave temperature is a comfortable 54 degrees, a light sweater or jacket is recommended, along with comfortable walking shoes.

Cherry Crest Farms

150 Cherry Hill Road, Ronks

Located in the heart of Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Cherry Crest Farms is a unique place where fun, family, and farming come together. This family-owned farm has more than 300 acres of different crops and 50-plus farm fun activities. Shoot down the hay chute slide or hop on their jump pillow.

Adventure Aquarium

1 Riverside Drive, Camden, NJ

Home to more than 15,000 aquatic animals, the aquarium gives families the chance to come face-to-face with sharks, sea turtles, penguins, hippos, and more. Kids can walk through a 40-foot shark tunnel, watch playful sea lions, and explore hands-on exhibits that bring the underwater world to life. With its easy-to-reach location just minutes from Center City, Adventure Aquarium makes for an exciting and educational day trip from Bucks County.

Tip: In the fall, the aquarium typically offers free annual memberships for preschoolers. Apply for your Pre-K Kid’s Adventure Pass online.

Diggerland USA

100 Pinedge Drive, West Berlin, NJ

Diggerland USA is a must-visit for young kids who love cars, trucks, and big machines. This construction-themed amusement park lets curious visitors climb aboard real construction equipment, drive a tractor, operate a mini-digger, and even take a spin on rides designed around heavy machinery. Kids can dig, scoop, haul, and explore at attractions like Backhoe Adventure and the Heavy Equipment Playground. On a hot summer day, cool off at The Water Main, a construction themed water park.

Dutch Wondeland

2249 Lincoln Highway E, Lancaster

This beloved family amusement park features more than 35 rides, attractions, and shows designed with young children in mind. Little ones can splash and play at Duke’s Lagoon, meet beloved characters like Duke and Princess Brooke, and enjoy interactive entertainment throughout the park. Open seasonally with special celebrations like Happy Hauntings and Winter Wonderland, Dutch Wonderland offers plenty of family-friendly fun beyond the traditional amusement park experience.

More than 90 Minutes from Bucks County

For families ready to venture a bit farther, there are incredible destinations to explore, from New York City to the Jersey Shore.

Turkey Hill Experience

301 Linden St., Columbia, PA

The Turkey Hill Experience is an educational celebration of the famous Lancaster County ice cream and iced-tea company. Learn how the famous ice cream is made, sit in a milk truck, create your own virtual ice cream flavor, milk a mechanical cow, and so much more.

Belmar Beach

Belmar, NJ

One of the many perks of living in Bucks County is being able to reach the Jersey Shore in roughly an hour. Just over an hour from Central and Lower Bucks County, Belmar Beach is a particularly good choice for families thanks to its wide, sandy shoreline and laid-back atmosphere. Spend the day swimming and building sandcastles, then grab a bite, stroll along the boardwalk (note that there aren’t any rides), or let the kids burn off energy at a nearby playground.

Knoebels Amusement Resort

391 Knoebels Blvd., Elysburg, PA

America’s largest free-admission amusement park, Knoebels offers free parking, free daily entertainment and free picnic facilities. Simply pay per ride or game. The park features more than 60 rides including three wooden roller coasters, three steel roller coasters, a 1913 carousel, and a haunted house dark ride. You can also cool off in the refreshing 900,000-gallon Crystal Pool, where there are also watersides, diving boards, and a play area for young children. 

American Dream

1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ

If you’re traveling with little ones, a trip to American Dream will require some planning ahead. Your kids will want to do everything. There’s a water park, theme park, Ferris wheel, LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 3D museum, indoor wave pool, ice skating rink, shopping, dining, and more. Fitting it all in (and affording it) is the real challenge. Have a chat ahead of time about what you’re going to do and what you aren’t.

Hershey Park

100 W. Hersheypark Drive, Hershey

About two hours by car from Bucks County, Hersheypark offers thrilling rides, world-class entertainment, and the sweet taste of chocolate-town charm, making it the perfect destination for a fun-filled family day trip. With over 70 rides and attractions, a water park, and ZooAmerica Wild Animal Park all in one place, there’s no shortage of excitement for visitors of all ages.

Pennsylvania State University

201 Old Main, University Park, State College, PA

State College, right in the heart of Pennsylvania, is home to the mighty Penn State University — and it’s not just any other college town. In fact, the surrounding area offers a lot for families, as well as some of the most beautiful views in our state.

Don’t skip a tour of the campus, fun even for the littlest Nittany Lions, and be sure to visit the world-famous Berkey Creamery in the Food Science Building for sweet treats. You can also visit the Arboretum of Penn State, a free-admission museum with an adorable Childhood’s Gate Children’s Garden.

Downtown, there’s Discovery Space of Central Pennsylvania, where your kids can spend hours learning and playing STEM related activities. Or drive a few miles to the base of Mount Nittany. This vigorous hike offers two trail options and a great overlook of the PSU campus and Beaver Stadium.

New York City

For kids, New York City is one giant playground — and lucky for us, it’s an easy train ride from Trenton or Hamilton, New Jersey. Get lost among dinosaurs and massive fossils at the American Museum of Natural History, then head to Central Park to explore playgrounds, spot wildlife, ride the carousel, or simply run off some energy. For a dose of childhood magic, stop at the iconic FAO Schwarz, where larger-than-life toys and interactive displays make browsing almost as fun as shopping.

Of course, no NYC day trip is complete without grabbing a slice of New York pizza, riding the subway, and taking in the bright lights and excitement of Times Square.

Explore Beyond Bucks County

While there are plenty of things to do in Bucks County, there so many unique attractions and destinations just beyond its borders. Bonus: Any of these day trips can be turned into an overnight adventure for even more fun.

What’s your favorite day trip destination? Let us know in the comments.

We’re always looking to improve our stories with tips from local parents like you. If there’s a day trip destination you love that didn’t make our list, tell us about it below.

Lead photo courtesy of Christine Wolkin