Here’s a summary of budget-friendly family outings accessible via the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) with the MTA’s Family Fare deal:
MTA Family Fare Overview:
- Cost: Up to four children (ages 5-17) ride for $1 each with a fare-paying adult.
- Purchase: Tickets can be bought at a window or through the TrainTime app.
- Validity: Usable on peak and off-peak trains, valid all week.
- Extra Kids: A fifth child pays a regular fare.
- Expiration: Valid until 4 a.m. the day after purchase.
Recommended Destinations:
1. Oyster Bay
- Activities:
- Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park: Features a beach, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
- Oyster Bay Railroad Museum: Offers vintage rail cars and a free augmented reality experience. Admission: $8 for adults, $7 for ages 6-17.
- The Waterfront Center: Rent kayaks or paddleboards, or take a family harbor sail.
- Bonanza’s: Enjoy classic Italian ices and casual dining.
2. Greenport
- Activities:
- Mitchell Park Carousel: Antique carousel rides for $3.
- Drossos Motel Mini Golf: 18-hole course for $10 per person.
- East End Seaport Museum: Features a saltwater aquarium and local maritime history. Admission: $5, free for kids 12 and under.
- Crazy Beans: Retro diner-style brunch spot.
3. Rockville Centre
- Activities:
- The Children’s Social Club: Indoor play area for children aged 9 months to 7 years.
- Artrageous Studio: Kid-friendly pottery painting studio.
- Maple Lanes RVC: Bowling alley with arcade games.
- Center for Science Teaching & Learning: Dinosaur exhibit and live animal displays. Admission: $15; $12 for ages 12 and under.
- Mr. B’s Inclusive Playground: Accessible playground for all abilities with splash pad.
These destinations offer a variety of family-friendly activities that can make for a fun and affordable day out, all while navigating Long Island without the hassle of a car.
