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Tips for Visiting West Point with Young Kids

While the United States Military Academy at West Point is a four-year college, a visit here is far different from most college campuses. For starters, when you're visiting West Point, you're walking on post—not campus—and before you can even do that, you'll have to head to the West Point Visitor Control Center to apply for a visitor's pass. Located just outside Thayer Gate, all visitors ages 18+ need to provide appropriate ID and undergo a background check. Active and retired military members with a DOD Common Access Card can skip this step.

Once you've made it on post, there is plenty to see and explore, though much of the Cadet Area—where cadets, or West Point students, live, train, and attend class is off-limits to the general public. Heed the well-marked signs and stick to the public areas.

Given its site history as a strategic military installation, West Point is built into the hillside above the Hudson River. A visit here will require plenty of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and bring a stroller for little ones! You should also pack a water bottle and snacks to fuel your exploration.

Pomp, circumstance, and precision marching are highlights of the cadet parades on the Plain at West Point. 

Exploring the United States Military Academy: Kid-Friendly Highlights

1. Frederic V. Malek West Point Visitors Center

Located just outside Thayer Gate, the Visitors Center is your entree to the Academy, but it's also a great jumping-off point for your visit. While you'll need to pick up visitor passes in the basement, make sure to save time to head upstairs, where you'll find an exhibit on the West Point Experience, which gives you a brief overview of Academy life and famous grads through interactive exhibits and a brief video. You'll also find the Army West Point Gift Shop here for all your fan gear needs and a beautiful, postcard-worthy picture window overlooking the Hudson.

2. West Point Museum

Note: The West Point Museum is currently closed due to problems with its air conditioning system and will reopen when it is safe to do so. Located adjacent to the Visitors Center, find this FREE admission museum that details the history of West Point, the United States Army, and the profession of arms. It has exhibits featuring memorabilia, weaponry, uniforms, and more. It's also home to a lovely gift shop run by the Daughters of the United States Army (DUSA), where you can find unique gifts, including the company patches cadets wear on their uniforms.

There are picture-perfect visitas all over West Point—and the fall colors are spectacular.

3. Trophy Point

Located across from the Plain—or the parade ground in front of the Washington Hall—you'll see the soaring Battle Monument, which is the centerpiece of Trophy Point. Surrounding that monument is a collection of captured artillery pieces won in battles from the Revolutionary War to the Spanish-American War. You'll also find remnants of The Great Chain here—these steel links stretched across the Hudson River from West Point to Constitution Island in April 1778 as a last-ditch defense against British ships trying to sail upriver. Though never tested, they are a reminder of West Point's history.

Nearby, you'll also find a series of one dozen benches, engraved with the character traits West Point grads are expected to embody: compassion, trust, service, courage, perseverance, determination, dignity, discipline, responsibility, dedication, integrity, and loyalty. You can embark on a self-guided walking tour.

Trophy Point is also home to a beautiful, open-air amphitheater, which regularly hosts concerts from the West Point Band. Its Fourth of July Celebration, complete with fireworks, is worth checking out if you're in the area, though there are other performances throughout the year, too.

The Cadet Mess in Washington Hall isn't often open to the public, but you can visit during some special events, and it's stunning.

4. West Point Tours

Low-cost, guided tours are available year-round and leave via bus from the Visitors Center with stops at Trophy Point, Battle Monument, the Plain, and the stunningly beautiful Cadet Chapel. You'll learn an overview of the Academy and the site—including the origins of Benedict Arnold's traitorous ways. Online reservations are required and generally open three months in advance.

5. Eisenhower Hall Theatre

Ike Hall, colliquially, is the site of many a cadet milestone—including the infamous goodbye when they report for R-Day as plebes—is also one of the premier performing arts venues in the Hudson Valley, and welcomes the public for a diverse array of live performances from kids' programming, to touring Broadway productions, concerts, magic shows, and more.

From the Spirit Band and Rabble Rousers to the cadets and helicopter flyovers, game days are about way more than football at Army. 

6. Black Knights Home Football Games

A long-time college football fan, I've seen the sport in a variety of campus and pro stadiums, but there's something extra special about watching the Black Knights take the field at the 101-year-old Michie Stadium. Game days here begin with an early morning parade on the Plain. Arrive early to stake out your seat on the bleachers and watch the 4,000-strong Corps of Cadets perform a precision review for the crowd. Following the parade, you'll see demonstrations from the parachute team and a flyover from an Army helicopter. If that doesn't get you fired up, the atmosphere in Michie will. The Black Knights, fresh off a conference championship season, may be in a rebuilding mode, but there's plenty of action beyond the gridiron. The parachute team performs again at the stadium, and a cluster of helicopters leads the charge when the team takes the field. Of course, the cheering Corps performing The Rocket is bound to give you chills, and watching the company mascots rile up the crowd brings a smile—no matter what the scoreboard says.

Boscobel House and Gardens overlooks West Point from the east side of the Hudson and hosts plentiful family programming. Photo courtesy of Boscobel

Outdoor Adventures near West Point for Families

7. Boscobel House and Gardens – Garrison

This early 19th-century mansion sits on a vista opposite West Point on the east side of the Hudson. Currently, the history-filled home is undergoing a restoration project, but you can tour its gardens and grounds on weekdays. Bookmark its calendar for family-friendly programming and special events.

8. Bear Mountain State Park – Bear Mountain

With hiking, paddleboat rentals, a playground, swimming pool, ample room for picnicking, and even a zoo, Bear Mountain State Park has plenty of options for families to fill an entire day.

9. West Point Golf Course – West Point

Part of the recreation facilities at West Point, this 18-hole golf course is open to the public. Situated outside the gates to the west, it features a mountainous setting and well-maintained terrain. Its clubhouse was recently renovated, too. Golfers under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

10. Victor Constant Ski Area – West Point

Located just next door to the golf course, find this gem of a ski area. A mainstay for more than 80 years, it's an affordable option for families and features on-site snowmaking capabilities. Skiing is available days and nights, and cadets in the Winter Sports Club offer lessons for all-ages. Equipment rentals are available.

11. Bannerman Castle – Beacon

Pick up a guided cruise and walking tour from Beacon to Pollepel Island, home to the remains of Bannerman Castle, built in the early 1900s and now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Enjoy stunning Hudson River views, beautifully restored gardens, and historic ruins. Check the calendar for movie nights and live musical performances on the island.

12. Lawrence Farms Orchard – Newburgh

Enjoy pick-your-own fruits and veggies at this family-owned Hudson Valley farm from June through October. An on-site market sells homemade apple cider doughnuts, locally churned ice cream, and tons of kid-friendly snacks and baked goods. Reservations are required for picking, but include access to a farm play area, petting zoo, tractor rides, and more agritainment.

Museums and Educational Fun near West Point

13. Constitution Island – Cold Spring

Located on the eastern side of the Hudson, you can visit this island—where the Great Chain was anchored—during a guided tour, where you'll learn about the island's history and its former residents' legacy. Academy parents take note: During special event weekends, there are often guided tours departing from West Point's South Dock, too.

14. National Purple Heart Hall of Honor and New Windsor Cantonment – New Windsor

Much like the Academy, the rest of this Hudson Valley region is deep in military history, and it's on display at these two attractions. The National Purple Heart Hall of Honor pays homage to its namesake award, which is given to those killed or wounded by enemy action and is the country's oldest award. The Hall is located at the New Windsor Cantonment, which was occupied by the Continental Army in the waning months of the American Revolution. Enjoy living history demonstrations on the site from mid-April through Halloween annually.

15. Washington's Headquarters – Newburgh

General George Washington spent nearly a year and a half at this Newburgh farmhouse, which has been restored to its 1780s glory. It was here that Washington laid the foundation for the new nation and announced the Cessation of Hostilities, ending the Revolutionary War.

16. Storm King Art Center – New Windsor

This sprawling sculpture park is one of our favorite outdoor art destinations and spans 500 acres of rolling hills filled with larger-than-life sculptures. It's especially enchanting in the fall as the leaves are showing off their seasonal splendor.

17. Hudson Highlands Nature Museum – Cornwall

Immerse yourself in nature at this outdoor education site. With miles of kid-friendly hiking trails, a nature-inspired Grasshopper Grove Playground, live animals, and tons of family-friendly programming, it seeks to engage all five senses and bring out the budding scientist in every visitor. See some footage of a recent visit here.

Legoland New York is a Hudson Valley draw for families far and wide.

Day Trips and Nearby Towns for Families

18. Legoland New York – Goshen

This spralwing theme park brings big-time amusement park fun to little kids in the Hudson Valley. Spread over 150 acres, it's the perfect size to explore in a day. Opened in 2021, Legoland New York has added attractions every year and is also home to an on-site Legoland Hotel. It's open weekends in the spring, fall, and early winter, and daily during the summer months.

19. Beacon

Located in Dutchess County, this artsy Hudson Valley town has a bustling main street with plenty of small-town charm. Save time to check out Dia Beacon, the contemporary art museum housed in an old Nabisco factory that's home to large-scale installations.

20. Palisades Mall – West Nyak

An easy drive south on the Palisades Parkway, find this sprawling suburban mall that offers so much more than shopping: We're talking ropes courses, arcades, bowling, play spaces, and even a Ferris wheel, plus plenty of restaurants and stores to keep you entertained no matter your kids' ages.

21. Warwick

Nestled in a peaceful agrarian landscape near the New Jersey border, Warwick is a lovely little village. By summer, use it as a jumping-off point to a local farm, like Ochs Orchard or Wright Family Farm; by winter, you can head to Mount Peter for skiing, tubing, and more winter sports fun. No matter the season, take a walk along main street to support the mom-and-pop shops that dominate the landscape.

22. Woodbury Commons Outlet Mall – Woodbury

This sprawling outlet mall draws shoppers from New York City and beyond. We've scored some good deals here—and with nearly 250 stores, it's hard not to find something to please your whole party. There's also a huge food court and many other restaurants. It's also got a full event calendar and fun diversions like giant lawn games sprinkled across the campus. Parking can be a pain, but it's free—so it's easy to kill a few hours or a whole day here.

23. Cold Spring

Just across the river from West Point, Cold Spring is the jumping-off point for a couple of destinations on our list, but also a destination in itself. It offers stunning Hudson River views, plenty of shops and restaurants, stores for antiquing, and a charming trolley that transports you through town on weekends in the spring, summer, and early fall.

24. SplashDown Beach – Fishkill

During the summer, this local water park is a must-visit! It's got water playgrounds for tiny tots, huge slides for thrillseekers, and a lovely lazy river for mom and dad to relax in!

Where to Eat with Kids near West Point

25. Andy's Restaurant – Highland Falls

Hearty portions and reasonable prices make this main street diner a popular haunt for Cadets, officers, locals, and visitors alike.

26. Hacienda Restaurant – Highland Falls

Authentic Mexican fare is served in a colorful, friendly atmosphere at this family-owned restaurant on the edge of town. It's one spot we've never had a hard time getting a table, and the chips and salsa arrive nearly the moment you sit down.

27. Melzingah Tap House – Beacon

The self-described "gathering place for Beacon," Melzingah Tap House lives up to its reputation for local hospitality thanks to 23 craft beers on tap, a wide-ranging cocktail menu, and a menu made for serious foodies. Enjoy lunch, dinner, or weekend brunch. 

28. Barnstormer Barbecue – Fort Montgomery

This roadside joint has been serving pit-smoked flavors since 1998. In addition to barbecue, find burgers, steaks, salads, local craft beers, and a full wine list.

29. Chez Ana – Cornwall-on-Hudson

Visitors to this sweet shop are treated like family thanks to the friendly service from this town's mainstay. If the small-town service doesn't put a smile on your face, the ice cream, crepes, and empanadas will!

30. Cosimo's – Multiple Locations

This local micro-chain—with locations in Newburgh, Middletown, Poughkeepsie, and Woodbury—draws high praise for its homey Italian eats. With kid-pleasing wood-fired pizza, delicious pasta dishes, and an extensive wine list, it's a crowd-pleaser. 

31. Hudson Taco – Newburgh

Located on the waterfront in Newburgh, this taco shop is perpetually busy, and doesn't accept reservations, so aim to visit during off hours or be prepared to wait! A varied menu goes far beyond the basics with taco fillers like filet Mignon, General Tso's chicken, as well as the classics. A kids' menu is also offered.

32. 2 Alice's Coffee Lounge – Cornwall-on-Hudson

Start your morning off with a strong brew at this friendly coffee shop. Bagels, pastries, and light bites are also on the menu—alongside friendly vibes and small-town charm. Come back in the evening for beer, wine, or special events like live music and art shows.

33. Jones Farm – Cornwall

Shoppers and foodies alike find something to love at Jones Farm. Enjoy a fresh-from-the-fields breakfast or lunch in the cafe, then pick up local produce, eggs, and other goodies from the country store before you hit the road.

34. Yankee Clipper Diner – Beacon

It's breakfast all day at this classic diner in the heart of Beacon. Kids will go crazy for a stack of Oreo pancakes!

Take a minute during your visit to look up the Hudson from Trophy Point. It's stunning in all seasons! 

Family-Friendly Hotels near West Point

35. The Thayer Hotel – West Point

Located just inside Thayer Gate on the post, The Thayer Hotel has been a mainstay since its opening in 1926. In addition to elegant furnishings and a variety of room layouts, we love the on-site dining options here, which include a legendary Sunday Brunch at MacArthur's Riverview Restaurant and the stunning Zulu Time Rooftop Bar & Lounge. Cadets enjoy discounts when dining in and can receive homemade hospitality through its Cadet Dinner Delivery program.

36. Bear Mountain Inn – Bear Mountain

Nestled at the base of Bear Mountain, this historic hotel offers a variety of accommodations, whether you choose to stay in its Inn, Overlook Lodge, or one of its cabin-like Stone Cottages. There's an on-site restaurant and spa, too.

37. Holiday Inn Express and Suites – Fort Montgomery

Minutes from Thayer Gate, this recently renovated hotel has an indoor pool and an included-with-reservation breakfast buffet, which makes it a winner for traveling with kids in my book.

Unless noted, all photos by author.

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