5 Ways To…Get Away for Presidents’ Day

Despite the wrench still stuck in travel plans, Bergenites can find plenty to do around town during the three-day weekend.
Anastasiia Chokhliad,
Droplet Of Maple Sap Ready To Fall Into A Pail

 

Once upon a time, Presidents’ Day Weekend was the start of the great winter escape, when Northeast families fled freezing temps for a mid-winter recess in warmer climates. Ah, pre-pandemic memories.

Though most travel plans have been shelved for the time being, Bergenites still have plenty of nearby options to help us make the most of the three-day weekend. The following five staycation ideas provide fun for the entire family, and some even include an educational component—perfect for parents who want their kids to learn outside of the classroom.

  • Maple Sugaring at the Tenafly Nature Center (pictured above). Skip the chocolate and sample Mother Nature’s own sweet treat. Participants will head outdoors to learn how to spot a maple tree and watch how sap is boiled to make fresh syrup. 313 Hudson Ave., 201.568.6093
  • Superhero Weekend at the Liberty Science Center, Jersey City. Young ones can dress up in costume and take part in a series of superhero-themed challenges, from Thor’s Hammer Challenge to the Riddler’s Riddle Hunt. Timed admission will ensure social distancing and capacity requirements. 222 Jersey City Blvd., 201.200.1000
  • Dinosaurs at the American Museum of Natural History, NYC. Help celebrate the popular museum’s 150th anniversary by going through the halls and exhibits, including “T.rex: The Ultimate Predator.” Dinosaurs are always a hit, but this special exhibit ends in mid-March, so see it now before it goes extinct. 200 Central Park West, 212.769.5100
  • Ski Lessons at Big Snow, East Rutherford. If it’s too cold to brave the outdoors at Campgaw, you’ll find the perfect setting at the Camp Big Ski Program at Big Snow American Dream. Your child can get all the gear and a three-hour lesson on the indoor slope for $150. 1 American Dream Way, 973.864.6600
  • James Bond Exhibit at Spyscape, NYC. You might not see Bond, James Bond, in the theaters, but you can get the full 007 experience at New York’s spy museum. Learn about the British spy and see all his gadgets and gear (including his Aston Martin) at this recently unveiled exhibit. 928 8th Ave., 212.549.1941
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