Kids New York - June 08, 2009

Northern Exposure

Road Trip to Guilford, Connecticut

Road trips of days past meant scenic routes, B&Bs, and long wine lunches along the way.

These days you’re focused on potty breaks, amusements, and keeping it close to home. For an easy escape (two hours from Midtown), look no farther than the seaside town of Guilford, Connecticut.

First stop: Bishop’s Orchards (1355 Boston Post Road, Guilford; 203-453-2338), where kids can pick fresh fruit, devour cider donuts, and visit the farm’s llamas and alpacas.

They’ll run free on the Guilford Green, a vast field surrounded by historic homes, and run wild at The Purple Bear (63 Whitfield Street, Guilford; 203-458-8697), a toy store dedicated to creative playthings.

Hit Jacob’s Beach (at Seaside Avenue) for swimming and shells, followed by a walk along the meandering WestWoods Trails.

End your day with more fresh air at The Little Stone House (506 Whitfield Street, Guilford; 203-458-3700), where a dinner of local Thimble Islands clams (and hot dogs, if you must) are best enjoyed overlooking the water.

Last stop: the bathroom, before you hit the road.

MOVE
Run! Jump! Fly! Adventures in Action
What: Kids balance on snowboards, surf the waves, or move with martial arts.
Why: Take a flying leap.
When: Thru Sept. 6. Wed.-Fri., noon-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., Crown Heights (718-735-4400).

HEAR
David Weinstone and the Music for Aardvarks Band
What: The Madison Square Kids summer concert series kicks off with songs for city dwellers.
Why: It’s Flatiron fun.
When: Tues., 10:30-11:15 a.m.
Where: Madison Square Park, b/t Fifth & Madison Aves., b/t 23rd & 26th Sts. Info at 212-538-4071.

PLAY
Children’s Day at the South Street Seaport
What: Gordon from Sesame Street hosts performances by Robbert Bobbert and the Bubble Machine, arts and crafts, and a fireworks extravaganza.
Why: It’s a free for all.
When: Sat., noon-5 p.m.; fireworks, 8 p.m.
Where: Fulton & South Sts., Pier 17.