Family-Friendly New England Road Trip from Cold Spring to Vermont & New Hampshire Ending at LGA

Day 1: Drive & Explore Burlington

Cold Spring, NY to Burlington, VT on September 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Riverview Cafe

Start your day with a fresh, family-friendly breakfast offering organic options in Cold Spring, opening at 7am for a relaxed meal before the road trip.
USD20, 1h

9:00am

Drive from Cold Spring to Burlington

Scenic 5.5-hour drive through upstate New York into Vermont with stops for stretching and quick snacks; ideal for traveling with a toddler.
USD0, 5h30m

2:30pm

Visit ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain

Explore this science and nature museum with engaging exhibits perfect for kids; reciprocal membership with St. Louis Science Center applies, saving entry fees.
USD0 (with membership), 2h

5:00pm

Dinner at American Flatbread

Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizzas in a casual, family-friendly setting with an easygoing vibe, perfect after a day of travel.
USD50, 1h
View Hotels

Day 2: Nature & Culture in Vermont

Burlington, VT to Stowe and Montpelier, VT on September 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Penny Cluse Cafe

Hearty brunch favorites with wholesome ingredients served in a cozy atmosphere; great to energize for a toddler-friendly itinerary.
USD30, 1h

9:30am

Drive to Stowe

Short scenic 40-minute drive climbing into the Green Mountains, offering stunning views and fresh mountain air.
USD0, 40m

10:15am

Visit Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum

Discover the heritage of skiing in Vermont through interactive exhibits; interesting and compact enough for young children; open 10am-4pm.
USD10, 1h

11:30am

Stroll around the Stowe Village

Explore charming boutiques and parks in a toddler-friendly manner with plenty of safe walking spaces.
USD0, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Idletyme Brewing Company

Relaxed brewpub with outdoor seating and a menu suitable for families, offering local comfort food.
USD40, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to Montpelier

40-minute drive to the capital of Vermont, scenic and not stressful for a toddler in the car.
USD0, 40m

2:15pm

Visit Vermont History Museum

Explore Vermont’s rich history in a calm environment that welcomes families and strollers; open 10am-5pm.
USD0, 1h

3:30pm

Relax at Hubbard Park

Large serene park with trails and picnic spots, perfect for toddlers to explore nature safely.
USD0, 1h

5:00pm

Dinner at Sarducci’s

Italian restaurant with family-friendly service and menus, great for a cozy dinner before heading back to Burlington.
USD50, 1h

6:30pm

Drive back to Burlington

Return to Burlington for overnight stay, a 45-minute drive allowing a calm end to the day.
USD0, 45m
View Hotels

Day 3: White Mountains Adventure

Burlington, VT to White Mountains, NH on September 26, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Mirabelles Cafe

European style café offering pastries and strong coffee; good for a light quick breakfast before the drive.
USD20, 45m

8:15am

Drive from Burlington to White Mountains

Approximate 2.5 to 3-hour scenic drive crossing into New Hampshire, with stops as needed for toddler comfort.
USD0, 3h

11:15am

Visit Squam Lakes Natural Science Center

Wildlife and nature center featuring New England animals and interactive exhibits perfect for young children. Open 9am-5pm.
USD26, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Common Man Restaurant

Iconic New Hampshire eatery with hearty fare and a welcoming family atmosphere, suitable for toddlers.
USD45, 1h

2:30pm

Drive to Franconia Notch State Park

Short drive to park known for easy nature trails and scenic spots ideal for family strolling.
USD8 parking, 15m

2:45pm

Walk Flume Gorge Trail

An easy 2-mile loop showcasing gorge scenery with boardwalks that are stroller-friendly for part of the way; open daylight hours.
USD16, 1h30m

4:30pm

Check-in and rest at family-friendly lodge

Settle into comfortable accommodations suited for families with young children.
USD200, Rest

6:30pm

Dinner at Lodge Restaurant

On-site dining with kid-friendly options and rustic charm providing a restful evening meal.
USD50, 1h
View Hotels

Day 4: Return to NYC via Portsmouth

White Mountains, NH to LaGuardia Airport, NY on September 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Convenient and child-friendly breakfast at the lodge before departure.
USD20, 45m

8:15am

Drive to Portsmouth, NH

Approximate 2-hour drive to charming coastal town, great for a relaxing stop before the final leg to NYC.
USD0, 2h

10:30am

Visit Portsmouth Children's Museum

Interactive exhibits designed to engage young children; part of the Association of Science-Technology Centers reciprocal program.
USD0 (with membership), 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Green Elephant

Asian-inspired vegetarian cuisine with a family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu options.
USD40, 1h

1:30pm

Drive to LaGuardia Airport

Final 3.5 to 4-hour drive back to LaGuardia Airport in Queens, NY for trip conclusion.
USD0, 4h
View Hotels