NYC: Snow Tubing and Brewery Visit Day Trip

NYC: Snow Tubing and Brewery Visit Day Trip — A Practical, Authentic Winter Escape

If you’re looking to escape the city for a few hours and enjoy some winter outdoor fun, this day trip to a nearby snow tubing hill combined with a relaxed visit to a cozy brewery offers a perfect balance of adventure and comfort. For $159 per person, you get about 7.5 hours of snowy thrills, good food, and local drinks, all led by a knowledgeable guide. It’s an experience that combines outdoor activity, scenic nature, and local flavor — ideal if you’re craving a laid-back yet exhilarating winter outing.

What we love most about this trip is how accessible and well-rounded it is: the 2-hour snow tubing session is thrilling enough to get your adrenaline pumping, and the warm bonfire provides a great spot to relax and chat with fellow travelers. Plus, the visit to Pennings Farm’s Winter Beer Garden offers a cozy, intimate setting to enjoy some hearty food and local cider. The small group size (limited to 10) ensures a more personal experience where you won’t feel lost in the crowd.

A potential consideration is timing; since the whole adventure lasts about 7.5 hours, it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a full day away from NYC or who want to fit outdoor fun into a busy schedule. Also, since children under 8 or pregnant women are advised against joining, it’s more suitable for older kids, teens, or adults looking for active outdoor activities.

This experience is ideal for adventurous couples, friendly groups of friends, or families with older children who want to combine outdoor fun with some local relaxation. If you’re after a less touristy taste of winter in New York State, it’s a practical choice.

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Key Points

Outdoor Snow Tubing: Enjoy a 2-hour session sliding down a snow-covered hill on a giant donut-shaped tube.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Warm up by a bonfire between runs, perfect for sharing laughs and stories.
Local Cuisine & Drinks: Savor a hearty dinner and local cider at Pennings Farm’s cozy Winter Beer Garden.
Transportation Included: Comfortable round-trip bus transportation from NYC ensures hassle-free travel.
Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants for a more personal, engaging experience.
Family-Friendly: Not suitable for children under 8 or pregnant women, but perfect for older kids and adults.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins in Manhattan

Starting from 595 11th Avenue, just across from Gotham Market, the trip sets off with a comfortable ride out of the city. The transportation is included, which is a big plus since driving in winter can be unpredictable, and public transit options for such trips are less direct. The guide, speaking fluent English, makes the ride pleasant and informative, sharing insights about the area and what you can expect at the snow tubing site and Pennings Farm.

Snow Tubing: The Main Event

The highlight for many is the snow tubing. As one reviewer notes, “Sliding down the hill on a giant donut-shaped tube is just plain fun.” The 2-hour session at the snow tubing hill provides enough time to go multiple times, especially with the bonfire break in between. The activity is described as exciting yet accessible, making it suitable even for those new to snow tubing.

Unlike sledding, the donut tube has more cushion, giving a smoother, more comfortable ride. The slope’s excitement is balanced by the opportunity to warm up and rest by the bonfire, which is perfect for socializing and drying off in the cold. Many reviews mention the friendly staff and well-maintained equipment, enhancing the overall safety and enjoyment.

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The Pennings Farm Experience

After tubing, everyone heads to Pennings Farm for a well-deserved dinner and drinks. The setting is charming, with the greenhouse-turned Winter Beer Garden offering a cozy, relaxed ambiance. The included 12 oz cider is a hit, especially on a chilly day, and the hearty dinner—which varies but is described as satisfying—completes the day nicely.

One traveler loved the warmth of the greenhouse and the local feel of the place, making it more than just a meal but a chance to connect with the community. The atmosphere is described as “cozy and inviting,” perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor fun.

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Practical Details & What to Pack

The tour emphasizes dressing warmly — think layers, waterproof shoes, and snow gear. Since smoking and alcohol consumption in the vehicle aren’t allowed, you’ll want to arrive prepared and ready to enjoy the outdoors. Bringing a camera is recommended if you want to capture the snowy scenery and fun moments with friends.

Who Should Book This Trip?

This experience is best for adventurous adults, older children, or families with kids over 8 who enjoy outdoor winter activities. It’s less suited for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the physical nature of tubing. Perfect for those who want a relaxed yet active day not far from NYC, combining nature, exercise, and comfort.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Departure and Transportation

The trip begins in Manhattan, where the small group is picked up in a comfortable bus. The ride out of the city typically takes about an hour, giving you time to settle in and get into the winter spirit. The limited group size (10 people max) means you’ll get more personal attention from your guide, which many find helpful in making the day seamless and enjoyable.

Snow Tubing: What to Expect

Upon arriving at the snow tubing hill, you’ll find a well-organized setup with multiple lanes for sliding. The 2-hour session allows for multiple runs, which many reviewers say is plenty of time to get your fill of the thrilling downhill rides. The donut-shaped tubes provide a cushioned ride, and the slope’s length and incline strike a good balance—enough to get your adrenaline going without being overwhelming.

You’ll also have time to warm up at the bonfire between runs. Many guests highlight how the fire is a perfect spot for socializing and reminiscing about your best runs. The outdoor setting is scenic, often with snow-covered trees and a peaceful winter landscape, making it a great photo opportunity.

Post-Tubing Relaxation at Pennings Farm

After your outdoor adventure, you’ll head to Pennings Farm, where the greenhouse offers a warm, inviting setting to relax. The dinner is hearty—think comfort food—perfect after a day in the cold. The drinks serve as a nice touch, especially the local cider, which many reviewers praise.

The ambiance is described as cozy and rustic, giving you a chance to unwind and chat about the fun times of the day. The friendly staff and local vibe make it feel authentic rather than overly commercialized.

Return to Manhattan

The trip wraps up with a comfortable ride back to NYC, typically in the evening. The small group size makes for a friendly environment where everyone can share their favorite moments. The full-day experience leaves many feeling satisfied, with a little of that winter magic in their memories.

Cost-Value Analysis

At $159, this tour offers a lot: transportation, two hours of snow tubing, dinner, and drinks—all in one. The value lies in the convenience of everything being organized for you, avoiding the hassle of planning your own snow trip and drive. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personable.

For those who value outdoor fun and authentic local spots over tourist traps, this tour delivers a balanced mix of adventure and comfort. Comparing it to other experiences, you get a lot of value for the price, especially considering the included dinner and drinks.

The Sum Up: Who Will Enjoy This the Most?

This trip is perfect for adventurous city dwellers who want to try snow tubing without the hassle of planning, or for families with kids, especially those over age 8, looking for a fun winter activity. It suits groups of friends wanting to share a memorable day outdoors, or couples seeking a casual winter escape. If you’re after a scenic, active day with a cozy ending, this tour checks all those boxes.

However, if you’re not comfortable in cold weather or have mobility issues, you might want to consider other options. Also, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or small children under 8, so plan accordingly.

In all, this day trip offers a well-balanced mix of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and local flavor—a genuine way to enjoy winter just outside New York City.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from and back to Manhattan is included, making it easy to enjoy the day without worrying about driving or parking.

How long is the snow tubing session?
The tubing session lasts about 2 hours, giving enough time for multiple rides and some rest by the bonfire.

Can beginners participate?
Absolutely. Many reviewers mention that the donut-shaped tubes and slope design make it accessible for first-timers.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly in layers, including waterproof shoes and snow clothing. The activity is outdoors, and staying dry and warm is essential.

Is this experience suitable for children?
It’s best suited for children over 8 years old. It might not be suitable for younger children, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers transportation, the 2-hour snow tubing, dinner, and drinks at Pennings Farm.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Can I bring a camera?
Yes, bringing a camera is recommended to capture the scenic snow and fun moments.

Enjoy a winter day that combines outdoor activity, local charm, and relaxing comfort—a memorable way to experience a slice of New York’s winter landscape without straying too far from the city.