Kids at the Cottage: 6 Stress-Free Ways to Entertain the Family in Marmora

When you're planning a family getaway, "easy" is the name of the game. At Crowe River Retreat, we love that our guests don't have to drive for hours to find something to do. From meeting alpacas to visiting a legendary candy outlet, here are local favorites our littlest guests love:

1. The Walkable Splash Pad & Park

Memorial Park is just a 5-minute walk from our front door, located at the end of the street and just across the road. It’s a parent’s dream: there’s a splash pad, a playground, a park, a gazebo, and picnic tables right by the river. It’s the perfect spot to burn off some energy! Splash pad opens around the May long weekend and closes when the weather gets cooler. 

2. The Must-Stop Cottage Country Candy Outlet

Just around the corner at the end of the street is every kid's favorite destination: Cottage Country Candy Outlet. Since it's a factory store, the variety is huge and the prices are great. Whether you're looking for nostalgic sweets for the parents or a "reward" for the kids after a long hike, this is the ultimate cottage-snack headquarters.

3. Private Petting Farm Tours

For a bucket list memory, head to Fit Kitty Farms. This isn’t a crowded zoo—it’s a private tour where your kids get a big bucket of feed to interact with pigs, alpacas, llamas, mini horses, and donkeys. Just 30 minutes away, this is a highlight of any stay.

Note: Make sure to call or email ahead to book your private slot as they only have a few spaces per day!

4. Horsin’ Around Ranch

If your kids are dreaming of being cowboys or cowgirls, Horsin’ Around Riding Ranch is just 10 minutes away. They offer family trail rides, pony rides, and farm tours for all ages and skill levels.

Note: Make sure to call or email ahead to book.

5. Cones and Kayaks

Located right at the end of our street just past the boat launch, tennis courts, and ball diamond, Cones and Kayaks is our favorite summer tradition. Grab a few scoops of ice cream and walk them back to our private dock and beach—or head to the public beach (just 10 feet away) to watch the river flow by. Open may long weekend until September long weekend. 

6. Indoor Splash & Dine (The Winter Favorite!)

If you’re visiting during the cooler months or just need a break from the sun, head over to the Marmora & Lake Inn less than a 5-minute drive. They offer an indoor swimming pool available for public use. It’s the perfect way to let the kids splash around while the parents relax.

• Hours: Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM.

• Rates: roughly $15 per person or $60 for a family of 4 (for a 2-hour swim).

• Local Tip: They also offer private swim bookings if you want the pool all to yourself!

After the swim, walk right over to The Victorian Diner located onsite. It’s classic comfort food that hits the spot after a few hours in the water.

Note: Make sure to call or book ahead on the website.

7. Antiques & Farm Friends

For a unique mix of shopping and animal interaction, make sure to visit Jillian's Antiques & Things. While the adults can browse through vintage finds and the kids can enjoy meeting the resident farm animals. You can find goats, sheep, pigs, turkeys, ducks, and chickens. The best part? You can feed them right from behind the safety of the fence. It's a quick 8-10 minute drive from Crowe River Retreat. Make sure you bring lots of quarters! Opens Easter weekend until Christmas.