Long Island Farm & Vanderbilt Planetarium Tour | Kids 50% Off

Long Island Farm & Vanderbilt Planetarium Tour | Kids 50% Off

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines wildlife encounters, cultural exploration, and a sprinkle of oceanic wonder, this Long Island tour promises a wholesome experience for families and curious travelers alike. It’s a carefully curated blend of outdoor fun, educational stops, and local flavors—all wrapped into a manageable, well-organized day.

What we really appreciate about this trip is its family-friendly nature, with kids enjoying a generous 50% discount during peak summer months. Plus, the inclusion of bilingual guides who keep the stories lively and accessible ensures everyone stays engaged, regardless of language preference. The value-packed extras like unlimited bottled water, snacks, and a special travel passport add to the overall experience without breaking the bank.

A potential consideration is the long duration—about 9 to 11 hours—which might be tiring for very young children or less mobile travelers. The itinerary involves a fair amount of driving and walking, so packing snacks and comfortable shoes is advisable.

This tour suits families seeking an educational and fun-filled day, travelers interested in wildlife and natural sciences, or anyone wanting a taste of Long Island beyond the city buzz.

Good To Know

• Family-Friendly & Budget-Conscious: Kids under 12 enjoy 50% off, making it a great value for families.
• Educational & Entertaining: Bilingual guides share engaging stories, making history and science accessible.
• Diverse Experiences: From animals and marine specimens to museums and scenic views, there’s something for all.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes transportation, unlimited water, snacks, and exclusive keepsakes.
• Flexible & Informative: The itinerary can adapt if needed, with clear policies on cancellations and changes.
• Ideal Duration: A full day packed with activities, suitable for those ready for a longer adventure.

A Complete Breakdown of the Tour

Starting Early: Departing from Brooklyn at 6:30 am

The day kicks off bright and early, with a pickup point conveniently located near public transportation options. The long drive sets the stage for an immersive day, and with a maximum group size of 55 travelers, the atmosphere remains friendly and manageable. The tour uses professional vehicles, ensuring a comfortable ride throughout the 4-hour journey to Long Island.

Stop 1: Long Island Game Farm – Wildlife Park & Children’s Zoo

This is the highlight for many kids and animal lovers. Opened in 1970, the Long Island Game Farm is the island’s first zoo and is home to over 40,000 animals. This stop is all about getting up close with both native and exotic species, such as deer, goats, ponies, rabbits, and rare birds. The interactive aspect is what sets this apart—kids can feed, pet, and learn about the animals in a relaxed setting.

From reviews, we know that visitors like the informative yet informal atmosphere, with some saying the guides shared spontaneous stories that made the animals’ backgrounds come alive. The only caveat is that admission tickets are not included in the base price, so plan accordingly if you want to purchase entry here.

Lunch Break: Nicky’s on the Bay

After the zoo, the tour stops for a well-deserved lunch at Nicky’s on the Bay, a seafood restaurant renowned for its fresh catches and scenic waterfront views. The tour allows about an hour for lunch, giving you time to relax, enjoy the ocean breeze, and sample some local flavors at your own expense.

While the tour doesn’t include meals, the recommendation is clear: Nicky’s offers a delicious break—many reviews highlight the quality of their seafood and the friendly service that makes it a worthwhile stop.

Stop 2: Vanderbilt Museum & Planetarium

The afternoon unfolds at the Suffolk County Vanderbilt Museum, founded by William Vanderbilt, a marine enthusiast who amassed thousands of marine specimens. Visitors are treated to a seaside mansion filled with natural history exhibits, expansive marine displays, and an impressive planetarium.

The Vanderbilt Museum is praised for its beautiful setting and educational content, making it perfect for curious minds. Tour guides, like the one mentioned in reviews, make the storytelling engaging, sharing anecdotes about Vanderbilt’s fascination with the oceans and natural sciences. The planetarium offers a visually stunning overview of stars and planets, adding a cosmic touch to your day.

Again, admission is not included unless you select the optional upgrade, but even from the outside, the architecture and ocean views are memorable. The 2-hour stop allows ample time for exploration and photos.

Return Journey: Heading back to NYC

Post-visit, the group boards the bus for the return trip, which takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic. The driver and guides often share fun facts or local stories during the journey, keeping the energy lively. This part of the day provides a chance to relax, review photos, and recap the highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value & Convenience

For $94 per person, including transportation, bilingual guides, and extras like snacks and keepsakes, this trip offers solid value—especially when considering the 50% kid discount. The exclusive travel passport with stamps adds a fun, collectible element that kids and adults can enjoy, encouraging participation and making memories.

Knowledgeable Guides & Bilingual Approach

The guides seem to be a bright spot, bringing stories to life and ensuring everyone stays engaged. Their spontaneous sharing can turn a routine visit into a lively storytelling session, which is especially valuable when touring with children.

Seasonal & Themed Highlights

The tour’s highlights are carefully planned to keep the experience exciting and playful. Whether it’s children feeding animals, marveling at marine specimens, or enjoying scenic views, each stop adds a layer of discovery.

Flexibility & Safety

Tour policies are clear about cancellation, changes, and safety, including age restrictions and health considerations. The organizers also clarify the need for booster seats for children under six and the importance of providing accurate contact information.

What Could Be Better?

While the tour packs a lot into a single day, the length may be a challenge for younger children or less energetic travelers. The travel time, combined with walking and exploring, could be tiring. Also, since some attractions require separate admission, budget-conscious travelers should factor in those costs when planning.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for families wanting a full day of outdoor activities, animal encounters, and cultural education. It offers great value for money with a range of interactive and scenic stops. The inclusion of bilingual guides makes it accessible and engaging, and the kids’ discount makes it especially budget-friendly during summer months.

Travelers who enjoy learning about natural sciences, exploring museums, and spending time in nature will find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those with a spirit of adventure, curiosity, and an appreciation for well-organized, family-oriented outings.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the price?
Yes, professional vehicle transportation is included, using a vehicle suitable for the number of guests on that day.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts about 9 to 11 hours, with the majority of time spent traveling, visiting attractions, and enjoying meals.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. The tour recommends and highlights Nicky’s on the Bay for lunch, which is at your own expense.

Can I purchase tickets for the attractions separately?
Yes, but the tour price includes only the transportation and guides. Admission to the zoo and museum is optional and can be purchased from the guide if desired.

Is the tour suitable for young children?
Yes, especially since kids under 12 enjoy a 50% discount. However, due to the length, very young children may need additional comfort items and patience.

What should I bring with me?
Bring comfortable shoes, water bottles (as unlimited bottled water is provided), snacks, sun protection, and any personal items needed for a full day outdoors.

This Long Island adventure offers a balanced day of fun, education, and scenic views—perfect for families and curious explorers ready for a rich, rewarding trip outside the city.