Long Island Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

Summer Fun at Splish Splash …

July 11, 2019 By admin

We love kicking off summer at Splish Splash water park, Long Island and this year’s trip was as memorable as always. Splish Splash is located on Long Island’s East End, about 90-minutes from Manhattan making it a great day trip to escape the city heat. Read on for the scoop before you plan your summer visit.

Summer fun at Splish Splash Water Park, Long Island (and coupon)

What’s New at Splish Splash, Long Island – Riptide Racer and Bombs Away

These two new slide rides start from the same tower with the Bombs Away entrance a flight up from Riptide Racer.

Riptide Racer was my daughter’s favorite ride this trip and since the lines were short, she got to ride it quite a few times. Up to four guests race down the colorful tubes and slides going head-first on cushy blue mats. Watching the racers splash to the end line side-by-side is so fun as you never know who will go fastest.

The colorful Riptide Racer, Splish Splash, Long Island, Water park

The colorful new Riptide Racer at Splish Splash was a big hit with my 8-year old.

Bombs Away is a bit more daring with two dueling 300-foot slides. Guests stand in the clear launch capsule, waiting for the floor to drop. When it does, riders rush through a tidal flow as they fall at 26 feet per second. If you’re looking for a high-thrill, adrenaline rush, this is the ride for you.

Family Fun for Everyone at Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island

From babies to grandparents, everyone will find a favorite attraction at Splish Splash Waterpark making it a great option for a multi-generational visit. I love that most of the grounds are shaded and the attractions geared towards small children have plenty of seating.

Splish Splash Waterpark, Long Island, Lazy River, kids, coupon

The lazy river is a ride the whole family can enjoy. Watch out for the spraying waterfalls….

Splish Splash, Water Park, Long Island, Kids, Coupon

The areas for little kids feature cute submarines and pirate ships at Splish Splash Waterpark.

spilsh splash, water park, coupon, long island

The wave pool is fun for guests of all ages. This was the quiet before the storm…

Spish Splash can get very crowded on hot weekends so try to get there at opening or consider buying a H2GO Pass Ride to avoid long waits.

What to Bring to Splish Splash Water Park, Long Island

Even when you travel light you’ll still need those family friendly summer essentials including a comfortable bathing suit or rash guard and a light cover-up or sarong. Water shoes (preferably the stretchy tight types), goggles and sun hats are a must for little kids.

Be sure to stay hydrated at waterparks with Hydaway collapsable water bottles. Splish Splash, long island

Stay hydrated at waterparks with Hydaway collapsable water bottles and don’t forget a waterproof phone case.

You will want a waterproof case for your phone and a small portable safe to keep your car keys and credit cards safe. Last but not least, bring a colorful quick dry towel and water bottles for everyone in the family.

We test drove Hydaway Bottles on our visit and I loved how they easily clipped onto our bags when full and collapsed to a small disc when empty. Lockers are available and there are free cubbies where you can store your towels and shoes throughout the park.

Ready to visit? Check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and save up to $8 per ticket with this Splish Splash coupon code. If you can, make a weekend of it and check out all the family-friendly things to do on Long Island’s East End.

Have you visited Splish Splash Water Park? Tell me your favorite ride in the comments below.

Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Road Tripping: Escape to Long …

May 22, 2018 By admin

As a born and bred Long Islander, Long Island’s East End holds many fond memories like ice cream eating, swimming, berry picking, pumpkin picking, animal-petting and soaking up the fresh air and sunshine. When I received an invitation to enjoy a girlfriend’s getaway including visits to the East End’s most popular attractions, I quickly secured my spot. Long Island’s East End is a great summer (or fall) escape for couples, families and girlfriend getaways and this trip did not disappoint.

Escape to Long Island’s East End

Travel Tips

Driving to Long Island’s East End can be brutal so try not to go during peak times (especially Friday afternoon) if you can. Break up the drive with a stop at the Long Island Welcome Center (exit 51-52) where you’ll find super clean bathrooms, local snacks and beverages, plus outdoor space for kids (and dogs) to run around.

Long Island, East End, Family Travel, Summer Travel

The Long Island Welcome Center is en route to Long Island’s East End

Where to Stay

Long Island's East End, Long Island, Hotels, Family Friendly

Hotel Indigo is an ideal pick for a getaway to Long Island’s East End.

We stayed at Hotel Indigo Long Island – East End in Riverhead which is right off the Long Island Expressway and centrally located to all of Long Island’s East End attractions. I loved the modern decor and chic lobby vibe reminiscent of a boutique hotel, a rare find in Suffolk County.

My room was spacious and comfortable with earthy tones, plush bedding and contemporary furnishings. It had all the in-room conveniences I love (spacious bathroom with Aveda bath products and make-up wipes, Keurig coffee maker, free wifi) plus some other perks that are great for families like a dorm-sized fridge and microwaves (just ask at reception). The hotel is also pet-friendly so the whole family can enjoy an east end getaway.

Additional amenities include an outdoor saltwater swimming pool, furnished deck area, fitness center, and spa.

There is a complimentary shuttle to drive guests around and bikes can be borrowed from the lobby. The hotel is a hotspot with locals and visitors with special events throughout the summer and fall so check the schedule before you book your stay.

For dining, the Bistro 57 restaurant is one of the best in the area offering farm fresh dining and locally brewed beverages with innovative presentations (weekends book up, so make reservations in advance).

Shopping

The Riverhead Tanger Outlet Mall has something for everyone with shops ranging from Disney and Crocs to Kate Spade and Off-Saks Fifth Avenue, etc. If you’ve got a new home (or maybe a beach house) to decorate, you will definitely want to hit the Pottery Barn, William-Sonoma, Restoration Hardware and West Elm outlets. Stop by the information center to pick up a coupon book (free for AAA members).

Eating and Drinking

Long Island’s famed wineries are spread throughout the North Fork so plan to visit one or more depending on your crew. Most wineries offer large areas for picnics and kids are always welcome so pack some sandwiches and outdoor games if you’re taking the family.

Long Island's East End, Winery, Long Island, Travel

Be sure to stop at a winery or two when you visit Long Island’s East End.

We stopped at Osprey Dominion Vineyards where we were treated to a delicious wine tasting and informative vineyard tour. We sampled Sauvignon Blanc, Dry Rose, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, as well as a warmed Spice Wine.

Their award-winning wines are proudly displayed inside and gifts and snacks are also available for purchase.

We really enjoyed hanging out on the scenic grounds, sipping wine and listening to live music. Such a perfect girlfriend getaway moment.

If you do bring kids here, a food truck serves kid-friendly fare like hot dogs and corn.

Another fun spot is The Riverhead Ciderhouse. Check out the outdoor garden area or lounge on vintage sofas by the fire.

Long Island's East End, Riverhead Ciderhouse, Long Island Travel

Come hungry to The Riverhead Ciderhouse on Long Island’s East End.

If you love cider, you’ll have a hard time deciding what to order but the $10 cider tasting is the perfect solution. I tried the Apple Annie, Cherry, Strawberry and Spring Fling and they were all deliciously smooth and refreshing.

This is a great place to drop by any time of day but I recommend coming hungry so you can sample their tasty culinary offerings like giant pretzels, table-made guacamole and innovative pizzas.

The large apple orchards can be seen from the parking lot so you know everything is super fresh.

If you love pies, make a quick visit Briermere Farms. They only sell whole pies to go (fresh or frozen) but if you’re looking for a small snack, I highly recommend the Raspberry Walnut Squares.

For the Kiddos

Garden of Eve Organic Farm & Market – Long Island’s East End was originally all farmland and there are plenty of farms and gardens left to explore. If you’re coming with kids, Garden of Eve is a nice option due to its manageable size, affordable attractions (just $5) and fun offerings like a bouncy castle, climbing tower, pedal cars, slides, hay rides and petting zoo.

Garden of Eve Organic Farm, Iong Island, East End, Summer Travel, Family Travel

Pick up some fresh produce at the Garden of Eve Organic Farm & Market on Long Island’s East End.

We enjoyed a hay ride around the farm where we learned about the organic produce grown each season and finished our visit feeding the cutest animals including baby lambs.

Long Island Aquarium – Located on Main Street in Riverhead, Long Island Aquarium is a full-scale aquarium with a theme around the “Lost City of Atlantis.”

Long Island Aquarium, East End, riverhead, family Travel

Kids of all ages will enjoy visiting the Long Island Aquarium on Long Island’s East End.

One of Long Island’s best family attractions, the indoor and outdoor Aquarium features tropical fish, butterflies, bugs and birds as well as a gargantuan shark tank, interactive ray bay, penguins, a touch tank, an adorable sea lion show and so much more.

Have some ice cream and stroll the outdoor waterfront area if the weather is nice.

Splish Splash

For a family-friendly day trip, stop by the East End’s famed water park. I’ve been here with my daughter several times it never grows old.

Splish Splash is a great family outing on Long Island’s East End.

From wave pools and lazy rivers to log fumes and thrill rides, you will be laughing and splashing the entire day. There are toddler and baby areas so even the youngest babes can enjoy a day here.

Have you visited Long Island’s East End? Tell me your favorite memory in the comments below.

Special thanks to Hotel Indigo – Long Island East End for accommodations and some meals during my stay and to Osprey Dominion Vineyards, The Riverhead Ciderhouse, Garden of Eve Organic Farm and Market and Long Island Aquarium for hosting my visits. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

The Best Rides at Splish …

June 19, 2017 By admin

We’ve started a family tradition of kicking off summer with a visit to Splish Splash Waterpark and this year was no different. After a crazy cold spring, we finally had the chance to visit last weekend and today I’m sharing the scoop on the Best Rides at Splish Splash for every age. Splish Splash is located in Riverhead, Long Island, about 90-minutes from Manhattan making it a great day trip to escape the city heat.

Best Rides at Splish Splash, Long Island.

From babies to grandparents, everyone will find a favorite attraction at Splish Splash Waterpark. Splish Splash is a great option for a multi-generational visit since the rides are fairly close to each other, there is plenty of shade and seats plus attractions even a grandma who wants to keep her hair dry can enjoy. Read on for the best rides at Splish Splash for everyone in your family.

The Octopus Pool at Splish Splash is perfect for babies at toddlers.

BEST SPOTS FOR BABIES AND TODDLERS

The Kiddie Cove section is where you’ll be spending most of your time if you’ve got tiny kids. The Octopus Pool has the cutest baby swings, sprinkler fountains and super shallow wading pool. Across the way are three kiddie water slides that are pretty slow and end in a shallow pool so they are perfect for toddlers and little kids. There are plenty of lounge chairs and shaded areas so parents can set up camp or rent a nearby cabana.

Best Rides at Splish Splash, Long Island. The Yellow Submarine area is a hit with little kids.

BEST FOR LITTLE KIDS (3-8 and under 54″)

For children, the Pirate’s Cove shipwreck area and Yellow Submarine area feature small climbing and sliding structures in shallow pools. The Monsoon Lagoon is a larger play area that features a faster waterslide, canons and climbing ropes area. Little kids will also love the Kahuna Bay Wave Pool and the Lazy River. For rides, Dinosaur Falls and Mammoth River are the tamest raft rides and Bootleggers Run is a great family roller coaster ride for kids 42″ and up.

Best Splish Splash Rides for big kids

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR BIG KIDS (8-12)

Big kids have their pick of rides at Splish Splash since most rides have a 42″or 48″ height requirement to ride solo. Bootleggers Run is a favorite for this age as well as Hollywood Stunt Rider and Dragon’s Den tube rides, and the Giant Twister and Max Trax body slides. For kids who love dark rides, the Abyss tube slide and Barrier Reef body slide are great options.

Best Splish Splash Rides for teens and adults: Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror

BEST RIDES AT SPLISH SPLASH FOR TEENS AND ADULTS

Cliff Diver sends riders down an 8-story slide making it a great choice for adventure seekers. If dark and twisty rides are your thing, Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror will be a favorite. One of my favorite rides to watch is Shotgun Falls where riders plunge into a 10-foot pool so I would recommend this one only for strong swimmers.

Mammoth River is a great choice for the whole family.

FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

The Battle of Mutiny Bay is a slow interactive water ride where you can shoot water from the ship or from water cannons on land. Other picks are the lazy river, Kahuna Bay Wavepool (the whistle means the waves are coming), Soak City pool area and Mammoth River (you will get wet on this one). In addition to rides, families can enjoy a Tropical Parrot Show from June 17 – September 4 at 12:30, 1:30, 3:30 and 5:30.

Ready to visit? Check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and save $5 per ticket with this Splish Splash coupon code.

Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for …

June 21, 2016 By admin

The only thing more fun than an indoor waterpark is an outdoor waterpark! If you’re heading out to Long Island this summer, be sure to stop by Splish Splash Waterpark for a family friendly adventure sure to please travelers of all ages.

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon)

On our recent visit, my family had so much fun enjoying our favorite rides and tackling some new ones. Today I’m sharing my Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families…

Before you go, be sure to check out my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash and use this Splish Splash coupon to save $6 off each ticket.

Top 5 Splish Splash Rides for Families (and coupon)

1) Kahuna Bay Wavepool

If you and your kids like playing in waves, you won’t want to miss the Kahuna Bay Wavepool. Every ten minutes, the waves start small and finish big (think four foot waves!). Small kids and grandparents can stay in the shallow end while big kids and parents ride the waves making this a great attraction for all families. Life jackets are available and plenty of lifeguards are on hand to be sure everyone stays safe.

Mammoth River is full of twists and turns.

2) Mammoth River Raft Ride

Grab a raft (fits up to five people) and the whole family will enjoy an adventurous twisting tube slide ride. No swim skills are necessary for this ride making it a great option for families with young kids (minimum 36″). Prepare to get splashed along the way and at the end of the ride.

More adventurous families will enjoy Bootleggers’s Run at Splish Splash.

3) Bootlegger’s Run

Think roller coaster meets water slide for this one! The four-person family-friendly raft goes uphill using new generation hydromagnetic technology and flies down like a roller coaster without rails. This one features a combination of open and closed tubes making it a great pick for kids who are scared of dark rides.

The Lazy River at Splish Splash is the perfect spot for families to relax.

4) Lazy River

Families will love this relaxing tube ride on the gentle current of a beautifully landscaped river. Along the way you’ll find spraying fountains to cool you off. All family members can participate in this one but if you want to keep your hair dry, you’ll have to duck around some of the fountain areas.

The Battle of Mutiny Bay is a great option for family fun.

5) The Battle of Mutiny Bay

This kind of interactive water attraction was completely new to my family and we loved it. Up to four people can ride in the pirate ship which features water spraying cannons in every seat. As the ride circles around Mutiny Bay, guests engage in the largest water gun fight imaginable as the landlubbers squirt the “pirates” from large water cannons. Split your family up and see which team gets soaked.

Ready to visit? Use this Splish Splash Coupon to save $6 off the gate price. FYI, on our visit some attractions were closed so be sure to call ahead if there is a ride you don’t want to miss out on.

Have you been to Splish Splash Waterpark? Tell me your favorite attraction in the comments below…

Special thanks to Splish Splash for inviting us to visit. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 10 Tips for Visiting …

June 23, 2015 By admin

Summer is fiiiinnaaallly here and that means time for some fun in the sun! Splish Splash water park, one of the best NYC area water parks, is celebrating 25 years of fun so we hit the road to check it out. Here are my Top 10 Tips for Visiting Splish Splash, Long Island: