Family Getaway

By Amanda Ensinger Freelance Writer

With summer in full swing, individuals, groups and families are looking for fun vacation ideas to get away and unwind. While your typical summer vacation consists of the sand and surfing, there are variety of unique destinations you can attend that are different from your typically summer getaway.

Before you book that plane ticket or pack up your car for the ocean, consider these alternative summer destinations.

The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark

Located in New York’s Sullivan Catskills, this modern, state-of-the-art indoor waterpark boasts 324 suites, multiple on-site restaurants, an arcade, indoor/outdoor pool, inground trampoline and outdoor space for everyone to enjoy. Located right in the mountains, this hotel offers a lodge experience with modern amenities. Named the biggest indoor waterpark in New York, guests can enjoy over 10 different rides, including high speed water slides, a lazy river, a flow rider for surfing, a play area for younger children and more. The waterpark area also boasts lush vegetation, making you feel like you are on a tropical getaway.

Those looking for a break from the water, can also enjoy a variety of other activities at the property, including an escape cube, arcade, ropes course, climbing wall, bowling, laser tag and more.

After all that adventure, you will have worked up an appetite. Enjoy the multiple on-site restaurants that offering everything from traditional American Fare to high-end dining options to unique cocktails. The onsite restaurants offer something all appetites.

New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge

If you are looking for a city summer vacation, consider staying at the New York Marriott at the Brooklyn Bridge. This stunning hotel is in the heart of Brooklyn. Situated a few blocks from Brooklyn Bridge Park, the hotel boasts stunning views of the bridge.

The elegant guest rooms and suites boasts amenities like plush bedding, flat-panel TVs and high-speed internet. The hotel also has a variety of common space for visitors to relax, as well as fine dining options. Enjoy cocktails and the variety of locally sourced cuisine options at the Great Room Restaurant and Bar.

Located near several subway stations, nearby attractions that are within walking distance or just a quick train ride away include Prospect Park Zoo, DUMBO, the 9/11 Memorial Museum, Coney Island, Hudson Yards, Times Square, Theatre District and more.

The hotel also is pet friendly, so consider bringing your four-legged friend as well.

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

While in the city, get a different view of the city by enjoying a Circle Line sightseeing cruise. Offering a variety of different cruises, patrons can see the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Hudson River, One World Trade Center, Yankee Stadium, Manhattan skyline and a variety of other staple New York attractions by water. Offering daytime, sunset and nighttime cruises, guests can see New York in a variety of different settings.

The cruise line boats offer a variety of food and drinks on board, as well as ample seating for all weather. Tickets start as low as $29, making it an affordable option to explore the city.

This hip Italian-inspired restaurant boasts an amazing wine list with hip-hop accents. Using locally sourced menu items from New York’s farmer’s markets, Long Island fishing boats and local farmers, guests can enjoy dishes like oysters, Tuscan fried chicken, spaghetti alla carbonara, black sea bass, broccolini, buttermilk pannacotta and more.

Enjoy a glass or bottle of wine from their expansive wine list that includes wines from France, Italy, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal and the United States. If you are looking for cocktails, their craft cocktails will leave you wanting more. Consider trying the 212 made with tequila, aperol and grapefruit, or the Gold Rush, made with bourbon, lemon and honey.

As you plan your summer vacations consider thinking outside the box and visiting these destinations and attractions.