Exciting Family Road Trip from Newark to Niagara Falls with Fun Stops for Teens

Day 1: Scenic Road Trip

Newark, NJ to Rochester, NY on June 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Tops Diner, East Newark, NJ

Start your day with hearty American breakfast classics that are sure to fuel your road trip ahead. Open from 6:30am on weekdays.
USD20 per person, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Newark to Rochester, NY

A scenic 6.5-hour drive heading northwest with opportunities for roadside views and small break stops.
USD0, 6h30m

3:30pm

Explore the Strong National Museum of Play, Rochester

A museum dedicated to the history and exploration of play, perfect for engaging 12 and 14-year-olds with interactive exhibits and video games.
USD18 per adult, USD12 per child, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, Rochester

A lively barbecue restaurant with a fun vibe and kid-friendly menu options. Open till 9pm.
USD25 per person, 1h30m

7:30pm

Overnight stay at Hilton Garden Inn Rochester Downtown

Comfortable and convenient accommodation with free Wi-Fi and pool access for some evening relaxation.
USD180 per night, Overnight
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Day 2: Niagara Falls Adventure

Niagara Falls, NY on June 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Original Pancake House, Rochester

Enjoy delicious pancakes and breakfast staples to start your day energetically. Opens at 7am.
USD15 per person, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Rochester to Niagara Falls, NY

A quick 1.5-hour drive west to iconic Niagara Falls, perfectly timed to beat the midday crowds.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Niagara Falls State Park – Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

Experience the breathtaking power of the falls up close on this famous boat ride. Opens at 9am.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Red Coach Inn

Historic and charming dining spot with views of the falls, offering American cuisine and kid-friendly dishes.
USD20 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Cave of the Winds

Walk an exhilarating wooden boardwalk close to the Bridal Veil Falls, an unforgettable wet adventure. Opens at 9am.
USD19 per adult, USD13 per child, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Niagara Falls State Park trails

Leisurely walk through scenic trails with beautiful views and photo opportunities.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Top of the Falls Restaurant

Dine with panoramic views of the falls and a varied menu from casual to elegant dining. Open until 8pm.
USD30 per person, 1h30m

8:00pm

Niagara Falls Illumination and Fireworks

Enjoy the spectacular nightly illumination of the falls, often combined with a fireworks show (check schedule in advance). Free and kid-friendly.
Free, 1h0m

9:30pm

Overnight stay at Sheraton on the Falls

Enjoy amazing falls views and family-friendly amenities at this conveniently located hotel.
USD220 per night, Overnight
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Day 3: Return via Syracuse

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

7:30am

Breakfast at IHOP, Niagara Falls

Classic American diner-style breakfast to energize the family for the day’s journey. Opens at 7am.
USD15 per person, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Rosamond Gifford Zoo, Syracuse, NY

This 4-hour drive will get you to a rewarding stop to see over 700 animals in naturalistic habitats – ideal for teens. Zoo opens at 10am.
USD15 per adult, USD11 per child, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Destiny USA Food Court, Syracuse

A large mall food court offering a wide variety of kid-friendly options to satisfy any craving.
USD15 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Destiny USA Mall for shopping and entertainment

Engage in shopping, arcade games, and even indoor ropes courses for a fun break before the final leg home.
Varied, 2h0m

3:30pm

Drive remaining 4.5 hours back to Newark, NJ

Complete your family road trip with scenic views returning south. Arrive back in the evening.
USD0, 4h30m
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