Family-Friendly 3-Day Trip from Newark to Niagara Falls with Engaging Stops for Teens

Day 1: Journey and Outdoor Fun

Newark, NJ to Niagara Falls, NY on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Toast

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Toast in Newark, known for their kid-friendly pancakes and fresh fruit, setting you up well for the road trip ahead.
USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Newark to Roscoe, NY

Begin the scenic 3.5-hour drive toward Niagara Falls with a planned stop at Roscoe, known as 'Trout Town, USA', perfect for a nature break.
Fuel cost approx USD30, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch and Outdoor Activity at Roscoe

Grab lunch at Cornerstone Cafe offering sandwiches and baked goods, then enjoy an afternoon fishing or hiking at the nearby Willowemoc Wild Forest, great for young adventurers.
Lunch USD40, Hiking Free, 2h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Niagara Falls

Continue the 3-hour drive to Niagara Falls, aiming to arrive by early evening.
Fuel cost approx USD30, 3h0m

5:30pm

Check-in at Hotel Niagara Falls

Relax and freshen up before dinner at your hotel conveniently located near the falls.
Hotel USD150, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Rainforest Cafe

Enjoy dinner in a vibrant jungle-themed restaurant featuring a lively atmosphere that kids love, offering burgers, pasta, and seafood.
USD70, 1h0m

Day 2: Niagara Falls Exploration

Niagara Falls, NY on June 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at IHOP

Begin your day with breakfast at IHOP, offering a wide variety of pancakes and kid-friendly menu items nearby Niagara Falls.
USD30, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Niagara Falls State Park

Explore the oldest state park in the U.S., enjoy walking trails and watch the spectacular views of the American and Horseshoe Falls. Don't miss the Cave of the Winds tour (opens from 9:00am to 8:00pm in June).
USD20 per adult, USD12 per child, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Hard Rock Cafe Niagara Falls

Have lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe featuring classic American dishes and a rock'n'roll atmosphere that teens will appreciate.
USD50, 1h0m

2:00pm

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

Experience the famous boat tour which takes you close to the base of the falls (operates from 9:00am to 6:00pm in June), an exhilarating experience for the whole family.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child, 1h30m

4:00pm

Aquarium of Niagara

Visit the aquarium to see marine life and enjoy some hands-on exhibits tailored to kids and teens.
USD12 per adult, USD8 per child, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Third Street Retreat

Casual dinner featuring pizza and grilled options in a comfortable, family-friendly setting.
USD50, 1h0m

Day 3: Return Trip with Interactive Stop

Niagara Falls, NY to Newark, NJ on June 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast onsite before checking out.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Rochester, NY

Start the 1.5-hour drive to Rochester with a planned stop at an interactive museum to entertain and educate teens.
Fuel approx USD15, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit the Strong National Museum of Play

Explore this highly interactive and kid-centered museum, famous for its video game exhibits and hands-on activities.
USD17 per adult, USD15 per child, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

Enjoy a fun and casual BBQ lunch, a local favorite with a lively ambiance that teens enjoy.
USD50, 1h0m

1:30pm

Drive back to Newark, NJ

Begin the approximately 6-hour drive back to Newark, with optional short breaks as needed.
Fuel approx USD50, 6h0m

7:30pm

Arrival in Newark

End of trip. Rest and relax at home after a fun-filled family trip.
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