NYC: Snow Tubing and Brewery Visit Day Trip With Dinner

If you’re craving a winter escape that offers outdoor thrills and a cozy dinner, this day trip from New York City might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed overview suggests it’s an engaging and well-balanced option for those wanting a taste of winter sports combined with a relaxed farm-to-table experience.

What draws us to this experience are two main points: the full 2-hour snow tubing session that promises plenty of sliding fun and the charming ambiance of Pennings Farm’s Winter Beer Garden. These elements make it more than just a quick outing—they promise authentic, family-friendly enjoyment with a local twist.

A possible consideration for travelers is the activity’s suitability for certain groups—it’s not recommended for children under 8, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems. So, if you’re traveling with very young kids or those with mobility concerns, this might not be the best fit.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a casual outdoor adventure combined with hearty food and drink in a scenic setting. If you’re looking for a mix of outdoor activity, local flavor, and a relaxed atmosphere, this trip could be a highlight of your winter calendar.

Key Points

• Outdoor Thrills: The 2-hour snow tubing session offers plenty of sliding fun on a giant donut-shaped tube, suitable for all skill levels.
• Authentic Environment: The cozy Winter Beer Garden at Pennings Farm provides a warm, inviting setting for dinner and drinks.
• Convenient Location: Close proximity to NYC makes this a manageable day trip that balances outdoor adventure with relaxation.
• Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, intimate experience with personalized guidance.
• Preparation: Warm layers and snow gear are recommended to enjoy tubing comfortably.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with back issues, which is important to consider before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Picking Up Near NYC

The meeting point at 595 11th Avenue in Manhattan is conveniently located across from Gotham Market. The small group size (limited to 10 people) helps create a relaxed, less hurried atmosphere. The transportation is typically via a dedicated bus, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenic drive out of the city. The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, so you’ll want to plan for a full day of winter fun.

Snow Tubing: The Main Event

Once you arrive at the snow tubing hill, the real excitement begins. The highlight here is the 2-hour snow tubing session, during which you can slide down the hill multiple times. The experience is designed to be accessible for those of all skill levels, and the donut-shaped tubes are cushioned for comfort and safety.

You’ll love the way the activity combines adrenaline and leisure—zooming down the slope on a tube offers the thrill of speed, but the slow, scenic rides back up let you soak in the winter landscape.

The activity is generally well-received; one reviewer from Puerto Rico noted, “La tirada en balsa,” meaning they enjoyed the ride, emphasizing the fun aspect of tubing. Expect to spend time warming by the bonfire in between runs, which adds a touch of rustic charm and helps keep everyone comfortable in the cold.

The Scenic Drive and Break Time

The drive from the tubing hill to Pennings Farm is typically short, giving you ample time to relax and chat about the fun moments. The tour itinerary ensures you’re not rushed, allowing you to savor the outdoor experience without feeling hurried.

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Dinner and Drinks at Pennings Farm

Post-tubing, you’ll head to Pennings Farm, a local favorite known for its hearty food and cozy ambiance. The highlight here is the dinner and drinks included in the tour price, with a 12 oz pour of cider to enjoy in their greenhouse-turned Winter Beer Garden. The greenhouse setting transforms into a festive space filled with warmth, twinkling lights, and the aroma of farm-fresh fare.

You might find the menu hearty enough to satisfy any appetite after outdoor activity. The atmosphere is laid-back, making it a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on your day.

Authentic Local Flavor and Atmosphere

Pennings Farm offers a genuine farm-to-table vibe, with the added bonus of a cozy, greenhouse setting. The cider, a local product, complements the rustic charm of the farm. It’s a good chance to connect with local flavors and enjoy a relaxed, convivial environment.

Considerations and Practical Tips

• Clothing: Dress warmly and in layers—think puffy jackets, fuzzy mittens, and snow boots. The tour emphasizes the importance of proper winter clothing for comfort and safety.
• Safety and Accessibility: The activity isn’t recommended for pregnant women, children under 8, or those with back problems, so plan accordingly.
• What to Bring: A camera is optional but encouraged to capture the fun moments on the snow and at the farm.
• Restrictions: Please note smoking, alcohol, and drug use are not permitted onboard or during the activity, ensuring a family-friendly environment.

The Value Proposition

Considering that the tour includes transportation, a 2-hour tubing session, dinner, and a cider, the overall value hinges on your interest in outdoor winter activities combined with local culinary experiences. It offers a good balance of adventure, relaxation, and authentic regional flavor, making it a solid choice for couples, friends, or small groups seeking a winter day trip.

Additional Insights from Reviews

While reviews are limited, one traveler from Puerto Rico rated the experience a solid 4 out of 5, mentioning “La tirada en balsa,” which translates to enjoying the ride, highlighting the fun factor. The limited group size (10 participants) ensures personalized attention, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for those who enjoy outdoor winter activities but prefer a relaxed pace over intense skiing or snowboarding. It’s perfect for families with children over 8, couples looking for a romantic winter outing, or friends wanting to share a day of fun. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate local, farm-fresh food and a cozy atmosphere after outdoor adventures.

However, it may not suit pregnant women, young children under 8, or people with back problems, due to the physical nature of snow tubing. The tour’s duration and small group setting make it appealing to those who value an intimate, personalized experience.

FAQ

Is the snow tubing session suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tubing activity is designed to be accessible for all skill levels and offers plenty of fun for first-timers.

How long is the snow tubing activity?
The tubing session lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time for multiple runs and fun.

What should I wear for snow tubing?
Dress warmly, preferably in layers, and wear snow boots. Bring gloves, a hat, and a puffy jacket for comfort.

Can children participate?
Children under 8 are not recommended for this tour, so check if your kids meet that age requirement.

What’s included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, a 2-hour tubing session, dinner, and a 12 oz cider at Pennings Farm.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at 595 11th Avenue, Manhattan, right across from Gotham Market.

Are drinks allowed on the bus?
No, alcohol and drugs are prohibited onboard, ensuring safety and a family-friendly environment.

What if I want to bring my camera?
Bringing a camera is optional but encouraged to capture the scenic winter landscape and fun moments.

Final Thoughts

This day trip offers a straightforward way to enjoy winter weather without venturing too far from NYC. The blend of outdoor snow tubing and a warm farm dinner strikes a fine balance between activity and relaxation, making it an appealing choice for those looking to add some winter adventure to their itinerary.

The small-group approach, cozy setting, and focus on local ambiance add to its charm. It’s not an adrenaline-packed ski day but rather a casual, friendly outing perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to indulge in winter’s simple pleasures.

If you’re after a fun, manageable outdoor activity that ends with hearty food and local drinks in a welcoming environment, this tour will likely leave you with happy memories—and maybe a few snowflakes in your hair.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby