Road Trip Close to Home with News12 - May!
Looking for a fun-filled day or weekend trip that’s not too far from home? This week’s Road Trip Close to Home highlights a blend of family-friendly fun, foodie adventures, cultural gems, and hands-on creativity — all within a few hours' drive. Here’s your curated list of must-visit spots with a little extra info to help you plan the perfect outing.
Complete Playground and Café – New York, NY
📍 30 Broad St, New York, NY 10004
🕘 Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
This isn’t your typical playground — it’s a 40,000-square-foot inclusive play space designed so that every child can have fun, regardless of ability. The layout features adaptive swings, sensory play areas, wheelchair-accessible equipment, and open spaces that encourage exploration and social interaction. Parents can relax at the adjoining café while keeping a close eye on the kids. It's the perfect mix of play and peace.
Connecticut Hot Dog Tour
From roadside stands to nostalgic diners, Connecticut is serving up some of the best hot dogs in New England. Whether you like yours simple with mustard or topped with house-made chili, this mini road trip through CT’s top hot dog spots is a tasty way to celebrate baseball season and warmer weather. Look for legendary joints like Blackie’s Hot Dog Stand in Cheshire or JK’s Original Texas Hot Weiners in Danbury to kick things off.
Time Out Market – Brooklyn, NY
📍 55 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
🕘 Open 8 a.m.–10 p.m. (Sun–Thurs) and 8 a.m.–11 p.m. (Fri & Sat)
Calling all foodies — this is your culinary playground. Time Out Market brings together some of New York’s top chefs, restaurants, and drink spots all under one roof. From artisan pizzas and global street food to inventive cocktails and decadent desserts, there’s something for every palate. Located right by the Brooklyn waterfront, the market also offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline — the perfect backdrop for your food pics.
Dassai Blue Sake Brewery – Hyde Park, NY
📍 5 St. Andrews Road, Hyde Park, NY 12538
🕘 Tour and tasting availability varies — check website for current schedule.
Dassai Blue is the first American outpost of one of Japan’s most celebrated sake brands. Located in scenic Hyde Park, this high-end brewery offers guided tours that walk you through the meticulous sake-making process, ending in a tasting of their premium selections. It's a sophisticated yet relaxing experience, ideal for couples or friend groups looking to do something unique.
wineUdesign – Hicksville, NY
📍 156 Engineers Drive, Hicksville, NY 11801
This isn’t just wine tasting — it’s wine making. At wineUdesign, you get the chance to create your very own bottle of wine from grape to glass. Learn about fermentation, bottling, and labeling, and take home a personal vintage crafted with your name on it. It’s a memorable hands-on experience perfect for date nights, team bonding, or celebrating milestones.
Edelman Fossil Park & Museum – Sewell, NJ
📍 66 Million Mosasaur Way, Sewell, NJ 08080
🕘 Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Step back in time — like 66 million years back. At this newly opened fossil park and museum, visitors of all ages can dig for real fossils, explore interactive science exhibits, and learn about New Jersey’s ancient past. Highlights include a life-size mosasaur model, hands-on dig zones, and immersive displays that make science come alive.
Silvermine Arts Center – New Canaan, CT
📍 1037 Silvermine Rd, New Canaan, CT 06840
🕘 Gallery and store open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Nestled in the woods of New Canaan, the Silvermine Arts Center is a hidden gem featuring contemporary art exhibitions, a sculpture garden, and a beautiful gallery shop. The center also hosts workshops and art classes, making it a great stop for both art admirers and aspiring creatives. Don’t miss their seasonal exhibits and local artist showcases.
Ready to Hit the Road?
From fossil digs and inclusive playgrounds to gourmet eats and sake tastings, these destinations prove that you don’t have to travel far to have a memorable adventure. Whether you're road-tripping solo, with friends, or with family in tow — there’s something in this guide for everyone.
Let us know which spot you’re heading to first!
