Moms and dads everywhere can feel the energy shift in early August. It’s a combination of elation and relief that school is starting soon and sadness that summer fun is coming to an end. But – summer’s not over juuuuust yet!
There’s still plenty of time to squeeze in a last-minute daytrip to a local attraction, museum, or state park.
Didn’t get to the beach? Consider a weekend staycation at a local campground. (Psst: the next blog post will feature some of the best campgrounds in the SRV region, so stay tuned.)
If you’re pinching pennies – and really, who isn’t – this is also a great time to plan an overnight camping experience in your own backyard, complete with sticky s’mores, grilled hotdogs, and heaps of memories that will fuel you long after the school routine takes hold.
Read on for oodles of budget-friendly ideas for kids of all ages.
Must Visit Attractions
Clyde Peeling’s Reptiland, Allenwood
For more than 60 years, Reptiland has been a “go to” destination for families looking for a zoological adventure in a safe and educational environment. Offering more than 40 species of reptiles and amphibians from around the globe, visitors can learn more about snakes, alligators, frogs, tortoises, turtles, Komodo dragons, and lizards, in stunning, naturalistic habitats.
Don’t miss their live 30-minute shows, offered five times a day at 10:00 am, 11:30 am, 1;00 pm, 2:30 pm, and 4:00 pm., with zoologists who are eager to answer even the wackiest question from your kid!
Have a kiddo who loves dinos? You’re in luck! Reptiland has a special exhibit that features life-size animatronic models that roar, move and spit! Kids can even climb aboard a model of Parasaurolophus for a fun photo.
Country Vale Alpacas, New Columbia
There’s n
othing quite like feeding and petting quirky alpacas to improve your day. Open on Sundays from 2-4 p.m., visitors can meet Pam Rosado’s herd of friendly alpacas, learn more about their behavior and valuable fleece, and even shop for items that feature prized alpaca fiber.
Items for sale include hand-crocheted and woven shawls, yarn and roving, felted dryer balls and felted soaps from the Rosado’s alpaca herd. There are also many alpaca products from Peru, which is the alpaca’s native country, including fur toys, sweaters, throws, scarves, hats and gloves.
Did you know that alpaca fiber is four to six times warmer than wool, as soft as cashmere, hypoallergenic and moisture-resistant? Best. Socks. Ever.
Learn more about Country Vale Alpacas in this article.
If you haven’t ventured out on the Susquehanna River this summer, consider an easy-going (and inexpensive) cruise on the Hiawatha paddlewheel riverboat.
They offer daily cruises at multiple times throughout the day – book in advance from the convenience of your smartphone.
Each hour-long cruise includes a scenic view of the Susquehanna River complete with narration and music – it’s the perfect way to cool down, chill out, and learn about the rich history of the early days along the river.
Free parking and restrooms are also located onsite.
Knoebels Amusement Resort, Elysburg
There’s so much to do at Knoebels that even if you’ve visited once or twice to check out their thrill rides and award-winning food, it’s worth another look!
Consider:

- hosting a family picnic in one of their free pavilions in “The Pines” near the parking lot.
- swimming in their crisp Crystal Pool, adding on the speed slides and tube slides to your admission.
- spending some time at the Mining Museum to learn more about the region’s coal mining history
- visiting Knoebels’ two resident bald eagles Hattie and Henry in the Bald Eagle Habitat. They have been there for more than twenty years!
- playing a round of mini-golf in the cool shade of the park, then grabbing some Old Mill ice cream to sit and enjoy by the Creek.
- playing a round of golf at Three Ponds Golf Club with dinner and cocktails at the Nickel Plate Bar & Grill to round out the day.
Whew! Maybe plan two trips for this one.
Pioneer Tunnel Coal Mine and Steam Train, Ashland
For more than 60 years, Pioneer Tunnel has disguised education as fun with their coal mine and steam train rides for kids and adults of all ages.
There are two main experiences at Pioneer Tunnel: a scenic ride on a stream train, nicknamed a Lokie, and a ride that descends into a formerly-functioning coal mine. The mine was formerly owned by Philadelphia & Reading Coal & Iron Company. The section of the mine that is on the tour was mined from 1911-1931, reopening in 1962 as a tourist attraction.
A few tips for your coal mine experience: There is a small amount of walking on rough and uneven ground so appropriate footwear is recommended. Mine temperatures average 48-52 F year-round, so a sweater or jacket is recommended.
Read more about this educational excursion in this article.
T&Ds Cats of the World, Penn’s Creek
T&D’s Cats of the World is one of the only exotic wildlife rescue organizations in Pennsylvania. T&D's is privately owned and operated by the Mattive family.
Nearly 300 abused, mistreated, or unwanted animals call T&D’s home, including 50 felines (lions, tigers, cougars, leopards, bobcats, servals, and lynx). View all of the species here.
One of the most wonderful aspects of visiting this rescue is that they provide large, natural enclosures for the animals in their care. You will find tigers cooling off in the pond within their two-acre exercise area, lions lounging in an acre exhibit, and bears wandering about their acre enclosure.
And sometimes, you’ll catch the animals playing with “enrichment toys” meant to engage their minds and bodies, such as balls, tires and ropes.
Little League Baseball World Series Games in August
It’s
almost time for the Little League World Series! While you’re there, check out the World of Little League Museum. The completely remodeled Museum features hundreds of unique artifacts, two theaters, a timed running track, a 3D catching exhibit.
Held each August in South Williamsport, the Little League Baseball World Series (LLBWS) welcomes 20 teams from around the world to compete for the chance to be named World Series Champion. This incredible baseball experience includes 38 games over the course of 11 days. Games are played at the Little League International Complex, Howard J. Lamade Stadium and Volunteer Stadium, from August 13-24, 2025.
The tournament features teams from around the world and is free to attend. The full schedule is available here. Ticket info is available here.
Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, Halifax

Lake Tobias Wildlife Park, which encompasses 150-acres, offers a variety of animal encounters in one fun visit!
Stroll through the many wildlife habitats to see giraffes, tigers, zebras, baboons, ostriches, gibbons, kangaroos, lions, and much more. Then, take a Safari Tour and make memories as you hand-feed wildlife such as bison, water buffalo, and yak strolling right next to you. They also have a fun petting zoo.
Indoor Fun
If you’re looking for indoor fun on a very hot and humid or rainy day, check out: 
- Campus Theatre, Lewisburg
- The Exchange Gallery, Bloomsburg
- Ned Smith Center for Nature & Art, Millersburg
- Make some art at the YMCA Arts Center, Sunbury
- Hoopla’s Family Fun and Hoopla’s Xtreme Family Fun, Muncy and Shamokin respectively
- Treasure Castle Playland, South Williamsport
- One of three Children’s Museums – Lewisburg, Bloomsburg, Lykens Valley
- Don’t forget about your local local Library!
- The Blue Moose, Mifflinburg - bowling, axe throwing, escape rooms and team challenge
History & Heritage Exploration
Summer is a perfect time to learn about the region’s vibrant and tumultuous past – there are so many unique stories to uncover.
The Susquehanna River Valley has more than a dozen historic sites to explore, making it engaging for all ages to learn about our region’s history.
Outdoor Recreation Fun
Looking for some outdoor fun that’s accessible for a variety of ages and abilities?
Read our Kayaking Hotspots blog post here.
Check out our Hiking and Biking blog post.
Are you ready to take some adventures and make family memories?
Maybe you have a few questions before you head out? Call us – we offer free, personalized travel planning: 570-524-7234 or 1-800-525-7320.
Or stop by our Visitor Info Center at 2733 State Route 45, in Milton (Montandon).
Go make some memories – you still have a few weeks of summer left!
Hiawatha, Inc., Williamsport