Philadelphia is an amazing place to spend the holiday season. But as much as we hate to admit it, New York City is a strong frontrunner for the ultimate holiday destination. This time of year in New York is downright magical, and at 100ish miles away, a trip to the Big Apple during Christmastime is a tradition that many Philly families treasure. We figured that the ultimate holiday destination deserves the ultimate holiday travel guide, so we’ve compiled a list of the best ways to get from Philadelphia to New York.

Traveling from Philadelphia to New York is a route with myriad options, and parents can expend a lot of energy debating taking the train from Philly to NYC, taking the bus from Philly to NYC, or driving up the turnpike, never mind the traffic and parking headaches waiting to greet you on arrival. We’re making your family trip to New York City for the holidays or any other days as hassle-free as possible, by mapping out all the best ways to go from Philly to New York, and throwing in a few suggestions of what to do when you arrive.

Go on a hike: it's good for your health, is an amazing family bonding activity, and you can get great family photos!

New England is home to some of the most gorgeous, yet kid-friendly places to hit the trails—even in the White Mountains of New Hampshire where there is an impressive cluster of 4,000 footers. We’ve rounded up the best places to take a hike in all of New England, from tranquil parks to adventurous state parks and more. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore nature on mild, kid-friendly terrain (some are even drivable), and maybe see some wildlife along the way.

Looking for more ways to get out in nature with kids? Explore our list of 10 State Parks and Forests in Massachusetts and 25 Connecticut State Parks and Forests That Are Great to Visit. Or, learn about the 15 best destinations for a fall day trip from Boston. 

Dodger fans must have been very, very good this year, because Santa has a surprise: for the first time ever, there will be an ice skating rink for the public to skate on out in center field! The Los Angeles Dodgers are hosting a holiday festival with music and entertainment, the ice skating rink, holiday and Christmas light displays, holiday-themed snacks, photos with Santa (and the elves), and more. Read on for the scoop on this exciting new holiday festival in Los Angeles.

For more Christmas light displays, holiday festivals, ice skating rinks in Los Angeles, and more check out our complete Guide to Holiday and Christmas Activities in Los Angeles in 2021.

When it comes to fall activities, apple picking and corn mazes are just the beginning. Autumn is a perfect time to explore all nature has to offer in New York City. From learning about bird migrations to forest bathing, there are plenty of places—including some under-the-radar green spaces—for kids and families to fall in love with the outdoors. So, bundle up and check out these five fun nature activities before the fall foliage hits the ground.