The United States Virgin Islands consists of three main islands — St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix — the first two located close enough to explore from one home base.

Island hopping to St. Croix is easy, but the greater distance and varied attractions merits more than a day trip. (Click here to read US Virgin Islands Family Vacation Part Two: St. Croix with Kids.)

My advice? Enjoy the best of ‘both worlds’ and book a stay in each! Here’s a guide to the best things to do, with where to eat and stay, on your vacation in St. John and St. Thomas with kids.

Note: An earlier version of this post was first published January 2016. It has since been revised and updated. This post may contain affiliate links.

1: Swim with the Fish at Coral World Ocean Park in St. Thomas

Learn about the Virgin Islands’ ocean life and get up close and personal with the marine animals at Coral World Ocean Park at Smith Bay. In addition to looking under the sea in the geodesic underwater observatory, you can get within kissing distance on the sea trek, snuba diving, sea lion swim, Nautilus submarine, of several see and touch tanks.

Coki Beach, one of the best beaches to learn how to snorkel in St. Thomas with kids, is next door. Rentals are available, and if you bring a dog bone or bread you can literally have yellow-and-black-striped sergeant major fish eating right out of your hands.

2: Dive into the Blue in Magens Bay in St. Thomas

Without a doubt, Magens Bay is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly beaches in the world. The mile long crescent beach hugs a gentle stretch of sea that’s perfect for young and old alike. Magens does charge an entrance fee ($4 for non-residents, kids 12-under free,) but in exchange you get lifeguards, bathrooms, and showers.

There’s also a snack counter, souvenir shop, and a shop renting kayaks, paddle boards, and lounge chairs. On the far end there’s an arboretum, mangrove, coconut grove, and nature trail. The Nature Conservancy also opened a hiking trail to Magens Bay from the hill road above, but it can be tricky to spot the entrance.

If you do drive in, be sure to stop at Famous Delight (long-time residents know it as Udder Delight) for a liqueur-laced milkshakes—perfection after a day on St. Thomas with kids in the sun.

3: Kayak through a Mangrove on a Virgin Islands Eco Tour (St. Thomas/St. John)

Virgin Islands Eco Tours runs a number of hike, kayak, and snorkel tours on St. Thomas and St. John including a thrilling nighttime kayaking trip to “Pirates Point” (talk about a memory from your family vacation to St. Thomas and St. John!).

Probably the best adventure with kids is the one to Mangrove Lagoon where in between learning about nature’s coastal filter they may also see a variety of marine life—on a typical day guides may point out lobsters and barracudas—and an army of hermit crabs.

4: Hike a Nature Trail in the Virgin Islands National Park on St. John

One of the smallest of the US Virgin Islands, St. John remains mostly as nature intended because more than half the island has been protected as the Virgin Islands National Park since 1956. Your best bet for making the most of a day on St. John is to get around by jeep (either on St. John or bring it on the car ferry from St. Thomas, but check that it’s allowed by your rental policy.)

Otherwise, you can take a safari taxi either as a tour, or point to point, from Cruz Bay where the ferry docks. Be sure to check the calendar for park ranger programs. They’re all excellent but there are a couple of standouts.

With these ranger-led programs, you might discover medicinal and other uses for tropical plants along the Reef Bay Trail on your way to seeing the ancient Taino Petroglyphs. Or perhaps learn about the sugar plantation at Annaberg Historic Site. And also learn how sea grass inhabitants defend themselves on the Waters Edge Walk at the Leinster Bay Trailhead next to Annaberg.

Best Place to Stay with kids on St. Thomas: Marriott’s Frenchman’s Cove

Frenchman’s Cove is blessed with a great location (and private beach). At this Morningstar Beach resort, the main building is only a short path from one of the best beaches on the island. Known for its gentle waves, Morningstar Beach is a favorite with skimboarders–while satellite rooms and a couple of restaurants and bars are right on it.

BONUS TIP: Frenchman’s Cove Marriott Vacation Club that’s part of it (and pictured here) has suite-style accommodations that are particularly good for families.

The resort itself is huge with everything you might want for a family vacation on St. Thomas. There are 4 restaurants, 4 bars, plus a café, deli, and well stocked convenience shop. Better still, consider the four pools (including 2 infinity pools and a swim-up bar,) full-service spa, fitness center, and variety of watersport rentals.

Available excursions include sunset sails and night kayaking tour. Click here to see available family activities at Morningstar Beach.

1 Great Family-Friendly Restaurant in St. Thomas: Iggies Beach Bar & Grill

Iggies Beach Bar & Grill at Bolongo Bay Beach Resort has reasonably priced meals, cheap drinks, and kids can play in the sand. Go on Wednesday nights for the all-you-can-eat buffet and stay for a West Indian Carnival with steel pans, conga lines, mocko jumbies, and fire-breathing limbo dancers. Also, Iggies Oasis located poolside at the edge of Bolongo Beach.

Ready to start planning part one of your visit St. John and St. Thomas with kids?

Don’t miss the Google map with my recommendations below. And if you’re curious how St. Thomas and St. John with kids compare with St. Croix for a family vacation, don’t miss part two of this feature: St. Croix with Kids.

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Exploring all of the many Manhattan film settings would be a never-ending pursuit. Because you probably do want to get some shuteye, I’ve listed 4 activities at some of the most memorable NYC film scene locations as well as 1 great place to stay and 1 great place to eat, with tips for keeping the schlepping around to a minimum.

Activity 1: Cruise the Manhattan Shoreline and Hail Lady Liberty

If your short on time (and patience for lines), cruise by Lady Liberty on your visit to NYC with kids.

At some point in their education, most American children will learn about the Statue of Liberty. Some may even recognize the iconic statue from classic films such as Splash or Titanic, but nothing compares to the experience of peering up from her base and seeing the golden fire of the torch held up high in the sky. That’s when the symbol of “Liberty Enlightening the World” becomes real.

Short on time? The quickest and easiest way to see Lady Liberty is on the 1-hour Circle Line Liberty Cruise (infants 3 and under free.) But if you want to set foot on Ellis or Liberty Island, you’ll want to book roundtrip ferry transportation.

With older kids, it’s well worth committing the better part of a day, if not a full day, to exploring the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, especially since the Statue of Liberty is located at the southernmost tip of Manhattan and is only accessible by ferry. The most adventurous will want to climb all the way to the crown (must be at least 4 feet tall,) but you can get a bird’s eye view even from the pedestal. (Advance reservations recommended or required.)

The immigrant experience comes alive at Ellis Island exhibits, but do consider first checking out the 30-minute “Island of Hope, Island of Tears” film documentary. An optional audio tour enhances the displays, and for the youngsters, there’s even one narrated by “Marty the Muskrat.”

Tip: The National Park Service offers a fun Junior Ranger booklet, but since they may not be available onsite, it’s best to print your own and carry it in.

Activity 2: Time Travel at the Metropolitan Museum of Art

A greek goddess at the Met, NYC.

Meet the Greek gods and goddesses that inspired Rick Riordan’s Lightning Thief series, the blockbuster 2010 fantasy film, which is also now a Broadway musical, at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Fans can follow in Percy’s footsteps with the downloadable Art Adventure booklet, but there are several Family Guides from which to choose.

Some of our favorites include the Sphinx and Mummies Family Guides, but it’s also a tossup between the Armament or Temple of Dendur guides as these exhibits top our list of can’t-miss stops. Perhaps most charming of all, the Family Guide for E.L. Konigsburg’s From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler (the 1995 film starred Lauren Baccal) introduces readers to the palatial bedroom suite where the main characters, a pair of clever siblings, sleep in style when they run away to the museum.

Tips: Because the Met is located just outside Central Park on 5^th Avenue at 82^nd Street, it’s possible to walk through Central Park to the American Museum of Natural History (of Night at the Museum movie fame.) The museum is directly on the other side of the park at 81^st & Central Park West, a 15-minute walk (if you can avoid tempting distractions). However, keep in mind that both museums are huge and best toured on separate days.

Activity 3: Pretend You’re in a Musical at Central Park

Visiting Central Park Zoo on a visit to NYC with kids.

Disney’s Enchanted wouldn’t be the same without the Central Park backdrop for “That’s How You Know,” and there must be a rule somewhere that you can’t film a rom-com without a horse-drawn carriage ride through the green heart of Manhattan. The 843-acre Frederick Law Olmstead-designed urban park is decidedly romantic. But it’s also a great place for children to run around and play. You can find multiple fanciful playgrounds, including at least one well-placed one next to the Met.

Open year-round, the Central Park Zoo is small but perfectly sized for introducing kids to wild life. Try to time your visit to see the penguin or sea lion feedings. Other popular park attractions (weather permitting) include a historic carousel, rowboats at the Loeb Boathouse, and racing model sailboats at Conservatory Water (next to the Alice in Wonderland and Hans Christian Anderson statues).

October to early April, Wollman Rink opens for outdoor skating; transforming into the site of the Victorian Gardens amusement park from June to September. But the best deal in town is The Public Theater’s Free Shakespeare in the Park every summer for nearly 60 years. Savvy New Yorkers line up early on the day of the performance to score a ticket, here’s what to know.

Tip: A classic New York pretzel or hot dog from vendors near park entrances makes a cheap and easy meal on the go.

Activity 4: Catch a Broadway Show

Times Square, the gateway to Broadway.

You can still see Times Square’s gritty side in classic films like Christopher Reeve’s Superman. But now the billboard lights shine down on a whole new Disneyesque world. The famous intersection between West 42^nd to West 47^th features a pedestrian walkway, stadium viewing platform to observe the bright displays. You’ll also find kid-friendly shops like M&M’s World, and an even bigger Hershey’s Chocolate World.

The top Broadway theaters are also located in the neighborhood. Your best bet for a cheap performance is same-day tickets available at the Times Square TKTs kiosk, but see this Broadway Show Tickets Guide for more options. Definitely plan ahead if you want to attend one of the musicals popular with kids. Musicals such as Anastasia, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the Lion King, Aladdin, or Wicked sell out quickly. Don’t miss Ten Things You Should Know Before Taking Your Kids to a Broadway Show.

Tip: You don’t need a lot of time to get the full impact of Times Square. Since the lights really do shine best at night, you might want to save it for a post-outing stop, especially if your family is benefiting from West Coast jet lag.

1 Great Place to Stay in NYC with Kids: The Plaza

Eloise at the Plaza–or at least her portrait.

No doubt it’s a splurge, but you can’t beat the convenience of The Plaza. It’s located on 5^th Avenue at the entrance to Central Park, within blocks of Museum Mile or Times Square. Even if you don’t stay there, it’s worth dropping in for the decadent grazing at the lower level Food Hall. The Palm Court also offers a grand afternoon tea.

And those familiar with Eloise, the precocious little girl who lives in the hotel seen in the 1950s children’s book series, will adore Eloise at The Plaza—a whole experience encompassing a boutique, party space, fancy tea, and the outrageously pink Eloise Suite.

All accommodations are luxurious–beginning with classic rooms featuring 24-carat gold-plated fixtures and moving on up to one-of-a-kind suites fit for visiting royalty—but now under Fairmont management, the historic hotel offers a number of discounted promotions.

As for movies filmed at The Plaza, the list is long including the film versions of Eloise. But the “castle on Central Park South” appears in The Way We Were, Arthur, and Sleepless in Seattle.

1 Great Place to Eat in NYC with Kids: Serendipity 3

Serendipity 3’s frozen hot chocolate–worth the wait.

Not all things are worth the wait, but Serendipity 3’s Frozen Hot Chocolate isn’t one of them. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer size and deliciousness of the frozen treats.

Yes, this is the restaurant featured in the 2001 romantic comedy Serendipity. It’s not unusual to spot celebrities dining amidst glitter of golden cherubs, Tiffany windows, and over-the-top seasonal decorations.

The menu lists burgers, salads, and a full assortment of comfort food. But be warned there is at least one Guinness World Record-breaking item—the $1000.00 Golden Opulence Sundae (48-hour advance reservation required.)

Tip: Be aware that only a limited number of reservations are available for lunch or dinner, not dessert. Waits can be as long as 1-2 hours during peak times, but never fear. Bloomingdale’s and the fabulous flagship location of Dylan’s Candy Bar are on the corner to help pass the time.

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Now the former center of government bears witness to that history with more than 2000 temples and shrines, but with significantly fewer people and less urban development than the current capital of Tokyo.

And because so many of these shrines are surrounded by tranquil parks, evergreen gardens, and Zen landscapes, Kyoto is a wonderful destination for exploring Japanese culture with children. Here’s how I suggest you get started.

Activity 1: Start On a Path of 10,000 Gates

No visit to Kyoto with kids is complete without exploring the gates at Mt. Inari.

Thousands of cinnabar-red torii gates encase a path to the summit of Mount Inari at Fushimi Inari, one of Japan’s oldest Shinto shrines and headquarters for 30,000 Inari shrines in Japan. The Inari are Shinto religion deities of foxes, fertility, agriculture, and industry which explains the many fox statues and sake bales. But there’s no explaining the surreal impact of those gates tunneling through verdant forest—you just have to see it to believe it.

The entire round-trip hike can take 2-3 hours, yet multiple return paths means you can bail at any time. Grab water at the base souvenir shops and keep the kiddos moving with promises of ice cream at the Yotsusuji overlook (about 30-45 minutes up the mountain). If you happen to bring your appetite, there are a couple of spots for a bite as well—including a traditional noodle shop with an amazing city view.

Activity 2: Wander Through a Bamboo Forest

Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove.

Arashiyama’s Bamboo Grove is a natural wonder. Sky-high bamboo limbs converge along an otherworldly walking path connecting multiple temples—including UNESCO World Heritage Site Tenryu-ji, an important Zen Buddhist temple, and part of the Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto.

In addition to several temples, the trail passes a traditional Japanese home and delightful gardens at Okochi-Sanso Villa, a curious hermit’s hut at Rakushisha Poet’s Hut, and the hilltop Kameyama-koen Park where, if you’re lucky, you may spot monkeys.

Hire a human-powered rickshaw or rent a bike to travel the path, and if you have time, book a short trip on the Sagano Romantic Train. A short 25-minute ride each way aboard an open-sided rail car passes jaw-dropping scenery in the Hozugawa Ravine.

Activity 3: Go for the Gold

The Golden Pavilion at Kinkakuji.

The main attraction at Kinkakuji, the Golden Pavilion, is without question the Zen temple itself. Pure gold covers the top two floors, and the entire building literally glows on the edge of lake. Strolling the grounds is quite pleasant, particularly if you include a stop at the garden teahouse for Matcha tea and gold leaf adorned Kinkaku sweets. Do pack coins to have on hand for tossing at pots and statues; it’s reputed to bring good fortune.

Activity 4: Ascend to Enryakuji

Spectacular views from Mt. Hiei, Kyoto.

Traveling to Enryakuji Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its “marathon monks,” can be an adventure in itself. The temple is perched amidst pine trees at the top of Mount Hiei, and while you could take a bus directly from Kyoto, you’d miss the thrill of riding gondolas and funiculars. Instead, take the city subway to Eizan Electric Railway, and connect to the Eizan Cable and the Eizan Ropeway. Both offer incredible views, culminating in the sight of Kyoto and Lake Biwa when you arrive at Hiei Garden Museum.

The gardens are a bit of a surprise as they replicate impressionist painting such as Monet’s Water Lilies series. You soon catch on as replicas of the original paintings are posed next to the gardens. Head to the opposite entrance to catch the shuttle to Enryakuji.

Tip: You might want to save exploring the garden until the return as it closes later than the temple.)

1 Great Place to Stay: Piece Hostel Sanjo

The kitchen and dining area at Piece Sanjo, Kyoto.

Stay where Japanese travelers stay, at a traditional Japanese “ryokan” recently reimagined (as of July 2015) as a boutique hostel. The stylish update includes a variety of room types (from family suites to dormitories,) garden-facing dining/kitchen area, laundry room, and an onsite independent coffee shop.

Check the bulletin boards for current festivals and other fun things to do; English-speaking staff will direct you. Bike rentals and airport shuttles are available (for a fee.) Best of all, Piece Hostel Sanjo is conveniently located in Kyoto center within walking distance from many attractions, restaurants, and great little shops.

1 Great Place to Eat: Nishiki Market

Dining in Kyoto with kids is easy at Nishiki Market, a 400-year-old “food court.”

Snack your way through Nishiki Market or pick one of several restaurants; with more than 120 booths, the 400-year-old food market offers lots of choices. Stalls sell exquisite fruit, fresh grilled fish, omelets, roasted chestnuts, and the prettiest candy you’ll ever see. The market is famous for Beef Manju Bun—a kid-approved option—but adventurous diners with older children won’t want to miss the stand-up counter only sushi bar.

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Now pirate gold may remain elusive, but the quieter, agricultural US Virgin Island holds many gems. Here are four fun things to do on St. Croix, plus one outstandingly family-friendly resort and one great place to eat while visiting St. Croix with kids.

Note: This feature is the second of two covering the US Virgin Islands with Kids. Click here for part one: The 411 on St. Thomas and St. John.

Activity 1: Explore a Sugar Plantation at Estate Whim Museum

The only sugar plantation museum in the Virgin Islands, a visit to Estate Whim Great House includes a look at the mill and factory complex.

Estate Whim Great House is set on a 12-acre site that is interesting to explore just for itself, but it’s also important as the only sugar plantation museum in the Virgin Islands. The museum which also includes the mill and factory complex offers insight into the relationship between the European plantation owners and the African slaves who provided the muscle.

Activity 2: See the Dungeons and Cannons of Christiansted National Historic Site

Christiansted National Historic Site focuses on Danish history in the Virgin Islands, which includes the island’s role in the slave trade. Built with the labor of hundreds of slaves, Fort Christiansvaem was finished in 1738 when Denmark and the Danish West India Company owned St. Croix. Christiansted National Historic Site focuses on Danish history in the Virgin Islands, which includes the island’s role in the slave trade. Pick up a free self-guided tour brochure or check the park calendar for ranger programs.

Activity 3: Snorkel in Buck Island Reef National Monument

Catch a boat to one of the one of the largest coral collections in the Caribbean.

Snorkeling Buck Island Reef is one of those bucket list items—the reef is extraordinary with one of the largest coral collections in the Caribbean—that is not to be missed on a visit to the U.S. Virgin Islands with Kids. But the water can be choppy and may not be suitable for young children. However, the boat ride to Buck Island is a lot of fun and even the youngest kids will enjoy exploring the deserted island.

Activity 4: Catch the First Sun Rays to Light the US at Point Udall

The earliest early birds in the US catch sunrise from this point.

Meriting a quick photo opp, if only for bragging rights, Point Udall is the easternmost point in the United States, and the first place American soil sees sunrise.

1 Great Place for Families to Stay on St. Croix: The Buccaneer Resort

Kids camp year round, complimentary breakfast, three beaches… The Buccaneer is a great option for those visiting the US Virgin Island with kids.

Family-run for generations, The Buccaneer is one of the longest-running resorts in the Caribbean and quite possibly one of the best for families anywhere. Kids Camp is free and available daily, year round. The complimentary breakfast is diverse and outstanding, prepared in the same kitchens that serve the hotel’s top-rated restaurants. Resort amenities include spa, golf, tennis, pools, and three beaches. Best of all, families with children ages 14 and under can opt to stay in Family Cottage Suites—one room with king bed, the other with twin beds—plus patio fronting lawn and bay view.

1 Great Place to Eat on St. Croix: Rum Runners Restaurant

Food and fun on the waterfront, Rum Runners was voted St. Croix’s People’s Choice Best Restaurant.

Voted St. Croix’s People’s Choice Best Restaurant, Rum Runners on the waterfront has kids covered with chicken fingers and cheese quesadillas. More adventurous eater should try the conch fritters, and parents, don’t miss the rum cake liberally doused with local Cruzan Rum.

Ready to start planning your trip to St. Croix with kids?

Don’t miss the Google map with my recommendations below, and click here for part one of these features: The 411 on St. Thomas and St. John.

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Birch and spruce covered Adirondack Mountains, over 10,000 lakes, and more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams provide lots of opportunities for exciting outdoor adventures. But because the Adirondacks surround and include vibrant towns and communities, the region also hosts gracious resorts, world-class museums, and even an Olympic Village.

So where to start? Check out these four family-friendly activities, plus one great place to eat and one great place to stay while visiting Adirondack Park with kids.

Activity 1: Visit the Wild Center

Don’t visit Adirondack Park with kids without visiting its Wild Center.

Learn about the Adirondack environments at The Wild Center. Designed by the same folks behind the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C., this cutting edge museum excels at connecting people and nature.

Families love the focus on discovery through play. Explore a “Wild Walk” along treetops, child-friendly nature trails, or a play area fueled by dirt, sticks, and a healthy dose of imagination. Junior Naturalists earn their badge at exhibits that encourage exploration of wetland habitats, bog ecosystems, and shifting weather. Do be sure to check the schedule for wild animal encounters—daily otter feedings are hilarious.

Activity 2: Float Down Ausable Chasm

The jaw-dropping Ausable Chasm in Adirondack State Park

Dubbed the “Grand Canyon of the East,” Ausable Chasm is breathtaking, especially when seen from an inflatable raft along a scenic float tour. There’s just enough white water for thrills, but the scenic ride is gentle enough that children (30 lbs and up) are welcome aboard. More extreme options for older kids include tubing, rappelling, rock climbing, and the Family Adventure Trail.

Activity 3: Bag a High Peak

Future Forty-Sixers atop Sleeping Beauty Peak.

Start ‘em young on the quest to become a “Forty-Sixer,” the name earned by hikers who have climbed all 46 Adirondack high peaks. Begin with an introductory hike like the Sleeping Beauty Mountain trail. Follow a gradual 1.8 miles ascent to the summit, past gentle streams and gnarly giant trees that look like they were transplanted from a fairy tale. The reward is a spectacular view of Lake George and the southern Adirondack peaks.

Once they’re hooked on peak bagging, tackle the easiest of the Adirondack high peaks—Cascade Mountain.

Activity 4: Tour an Olympic Village

Inside the Lake Placid Olympic Ice Rink.

Take the guided walking tour of the Olympic facilities in Lake Placid, home of the 1980 Winter Games. At the Olympic Center, see the site of the “Miracle on Ice” hockey game and check out the virtual bobsled and ski jumps on the Sports Simulator. Ride an elevator to the top of the Olympic Ski Jump—only 26 stories high!—for a gut-wrenching view of what championship skiers face.

And if that’s not enough of an adrenaline rush, go for the gold on a bobsled ride where the bobsled teams train. When the mercury drops, join family and friends at the oval outdoor skating rink (rental skates available.) Tip– Pick up an Olympic Passport at the ORDA store and ticket offices for discounted admission to all sites.

1 Great Place to Stay in The Adirondacks with Kids: Mirror Lake Inn

Welcome cookies, tea time, and complimentary dinner for kids? Say hello to family-friendly Mirror Lake Inn.

The elegantly romantic Mirror Lake Inn is also one of the best hotels for family vacations in the Adirondacks. Centrally located on the edge of the main strip in Lake Placid, it’s within walking distance from a bunch of great restaurants, interesting shops, and the photogenic Mirror Lake.

The resort itself boasts indoor and outdoor pools, boathouse and beach, a luxury spa, as well as organized activities and seasonal sports. But it’s the details that make the Mirror Lake Inn special: welcoming cookies, afternoon tea service, and complimentary dinner for children accompanied by an adult at Early Family Dinner. Read more about Mirror Lake Inn in this review.

1 Great Place to Eat: Lake Placid Pub & Brewery

Comfort food, kids’ game room, and craft beer await at Lake Placid Pub Brewery.

You could rationalize family dinner at Lake Placid Pub & Brewery because of its fun game-stocked kids room. But it’s the comfort food (Pizza, Burgers, and Shepherd’s Pie) that brings you back. That, and the Ubu Ale.

For more help planning your vacation to the Adirondacks with kids:

See the Adirondacks Guide on the “Albany Kid” website, and follow her through the links in her profile below. You can also take advantage of the free resources and special offers on the official Lake Placid/Adirondacks visitors website.

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The post Adirondack Park with Kids | New York Family Vacation Guide appeared first on Family Travel 411.