A Fun-Filled Day of Snow Tubing and Brewery Visits Near NYC
Planning a winter escape that mixes outdoor excitement with cozy socializing? This Snow Tubing and Brewery Day Trip from New York City offers just that—a well-organized, folksy adventure that combines the thrill of sliding down snowy slopes with the warmth of a local brewery. Whether you’re a snow sports newbie or just looking for an easygoing winter outing, this trip packs in genuine fun in a scenic setting, all within a manageable day.
What really makes this experience stand out are two things: the inclusiveness—everything from snow tube rental to dinner and drinks is covered—and the relaxed pace that allows you to enjoy the snow and scenery without feeling rushed. A possible downside might be the weather dependency; if it’s a particularly snowy or icy day, the tour could be canceled or rescheduled. Still, that’s a common trade-off for outdoor winter activities, and the organization seems quite flexible about refunds and rescheduling.
If you’re someone who loves trying new winter activities without the hassle of planning every detail, or you enjoy sampling local brews in a warm, friendly atmosphere, this trip could be just right. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with friends or family looking for a casual, memorable day outside the city.
Key Points
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Snow tubing rental, transportation, dinner, and a drink are included, making it easy to budget.
- Convenient Transport: Pickup right in Manhattan simplifies logistics and avoids the worry of driving.
- Relaxed & Social: Two hours of snow tubing plus a cozy brewery dinner offers a balance of outdoor fun and relaxing camaraderie.
- Authentic Experience: The dinner at Pennings Farm’s greenhouse-style beer garden provides a genuine local vibe.
- Weather-Dependent: Good weather is crucial; cancellations are possible but with options for rescheduling or refunds.
- Limited Group Size: Max 25 travelers, ensuring an intimate, friendly atmosphere.
The Full Experience: What You Can Expect
Pickup and Transportation
Your day kicks off at 2:30 pm from 595 11th Ave in Manhattan, right across from Gotham Market. The coach bus is comfortable, equipped with overhead TVs and a restroom—perfect for the roughly 2.5-hour ride out of the city into the snow-covered landscape. We appreciated the ease of this setup; no need to worry about parking or navigating a rental car in winter conditions.
The bus’s relaxed atmosphere helps build anticipation for the activities ahead. As you depart, you’ll get a brief overview of the day, setting the tone for a fun, no-stress outing.
Snow Tubing: The Main Event
The highlight is a 2-hour snow tubing session. Once at the snow tubing hill, your group will be given a rental snow tube, included in your ticket. The tubing hill features a gentle but exhilarating slope—perfect for beginners and those who prefer a less intimidating ride. The reviews note that the hill isn’t steep, which can be a relief for newcomers or those looking for a relaxing slide rather than a daredevil rush.
People can go as many times as they like within the allocated time. We loved the way the activity combines safety and fun—the tubing is designed for all ages, and the cushioned tubes add a layer of security. Plus, there’s a bonfire to warm up between runs, which creates a cozy, social atmosphere. The scenery around the hill is picturesque, offering plenty of opportunities for photos.
Expect to see fellow travelers excitedly capturing their moments, arms in the air as they finish their run. A review from George_L summed it up perfectly: “The snow tubing was fun and hill wasn’t that steep, which was a relief.” That sentiment speaks to the accessible, relaxed nature of this activity.
Food and Relaxation
In between runs, you can head to the cafeteria for a hot dog or hot cocoa—a simple but satisfying way to stay warm. This break allows you to chat with others, watch the action, and soak in the mountain views.
Brewery Visit & Dinner
After the snow fun, you’ll hop back on the bus for a short drive to Pennings Farm. Here, the dining experience takes center stage. The cozy greenhouse-turned-Winter Beer Garden gives a warm, inviting vibe—perfect for unwinding after outdoor activities. Included in your package is a hearty dinner and a 12 oz pour of beer or cider. Reviewers appreciate the value of this included meal, which removes the hassle of additional planning or expense.
The brewery visit offers a chance to sample local craft beers and ciders, adding an authentic touch to your day. The relaxed setting makes it easy to chat with fellow travelers and enjoy the convivial atmosphere.
Return to NYC
After dinner, you’ll head back to Manhattan, arriving at the original pickup point. The entire trip lasts around 7.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip. The daytime hours are ideal for making the most of your outdoor snow experience and evening relaxation.
Why This Tour Works for Travelers
This experience is particularly suited for those seeking an easy, all-in-one winter outing without the hassle of organizing transport, equipment, or meals. It’s perfect for groups of friends, families, or anyone wanting a brief escape from the city that combines outdoor adventure with cozy social time.
While it’s not aimed at hardcore snow sports enthusiasts, the gentle hill and included rental make it accessible for all skill levels. If you’re curious about snow tubing but unsure about committing to a full-day trip or more extreme slopes, this is an excellent introduction. The brewery component also appeals to those who enjoy sampling local flavors and relaxing after outdoor fun.
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Day
- Dress warmly with layers, a puffy jacket, warm mittens, and waterproof boots—the outdoor parts are snowy and chilly.
- Arrive at the pickup point promptly; the tour starts at 2:30 pm, and punctuality ensures you don’t miss out.
- Although the hill isn’t steep, be prepared for some physical activity; comfortable shoes and a bit of stamina help.
- Take advantage of the photo opportunities—the scenery and fun moments are worth capturing.
- Keep in mind, the activity is weather-dependent. If snow conditions aren’t ideal, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, but the organizers seem flexible with refunds.
- Enjoy the community atmosphere—many reviews highlight how friendly and welcoming the group feels.
The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?
This trip offers genuine value for travelers looking for a relaxed, fun, and all-inclusive winter day just outside NYC. It’s ideal for families, friends, or couples wanting a casual outdoor activity without the pressure of advanced skills or equipment. The included dinner and drinks add to the feeling of a complete outing, making it suitable for those who prefer to keep things simple but memorable.
However, if you’re a serious winter sports enthusiast or seeking adrenaline-pumping slopes, you might find this experience a bit tame. Similarly, if weather turns sour, flexibility in scheduling is key, so keep that in mind.
This tour strikes a nice balance between outdoor fun and comfort, delivering a memorable winter day that’s easy to fit into any New York City itinerary.
FAQ
What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers snow tube rental, transportation, dinner, and a 12 oz pour of beer or cider.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 595 11th Ave, Manhattan, right across from Gotham Market, at 2:30 pm.
How long does the snow tubing last?
You’ll have approximately 2 hours at the snow tubing hill, during which you can enjoy unlimited runs.
Is there an age limit for snow tubing?
The description suggests it’s suitable for most travelers, but specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned. The hill isn’t steep, making it friendly for beginners.
What should I wear?
Dress in warm layers, including a puffy jacket, mittens, waterproof boots, and possibly a hat—preparing for cold, snowy conditions.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations due to poor weather are allowed with a full refund or rescheduling options.
How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, fostering a friendly and intimate atmosphere.
This snow tubing and brewery day trip offers a well-rounded, enjoyable winter adventure that balances outdoor activity with good food and drink. It’s a practical and cheerful way to experience some of the seasonal charm just outside of New York City.