Urban kids don’t have to miss out on rural life – they can try it out any day of the year at one of many family farms near Los Angeles. Farm visits are one of those things you can do multiple times a year while kids are still little for pumpkin patch visits, corn maze wanderings, strawberry picking, and animal visits.

Read on to discover our favorite farms near Los Angeles where kids can learn about how things grow, taste homegrown (and homemade) goodies, take part in seasonal festivals, meet animals, and play in the dirt. They range from giant farms with loads of animals, pick-your-own fields, bounce houses, and tractor rides, to smaller spots where city kids can learn about planting and get their hands in the dirt.

Check out our list of the best family farms near Los Angeles and Orange County to visit with your little ones.

There’s nothing like the comfort of your own home when it comes to hosting your kid’s birthday party. Sure, you have to clean up, but you’re in control, and you don't have to worry about sharing a space with other parties. And, since the cost of an at-home party tends to be lower, it's the perfect opportunity to splurge on a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the party to you.

We've rounded up top New Jersey entertainers for your next bash. From costumed characters to magicians, balloon twisters, and face painters—even ponies and lizards—these party entertainers make house calls to delight your birthday kid and pint-sized party guests.

Find more ideas in our NJ Birthday Party Guide.

We all know what Philly is like in the summer—hot. A large part of surviving is going in search of water.

The historic town of Kensington, Maryland may be best known for its downtown Antique Row, but it is also a wonderful place to explore with kids. Located about 30 minutes from Washington, DC (just north of Chevy Chase), this Victorian-era town has stayed true to its historic feel and has avoided overdevelopment. From charming shops and restaurants to beautiful parks and playgrounds, you can easily spend a day in Kensington, Maryland with your family and find plenty to do.

Like the people who throw them, birthday parties have evolved. Grandma might point out that she managed just fine without puppies and ponies, but that doesn't mean we have to. The truth is that a good party entertainer can make a budget party in the backyard or local park feel like the event of the season. If you're that mom who's never at a loss to entertain a dozen 8-year-olds, our hats are off to you (and please contact us about writing a party piece!); for everyone else, here are 20+ party entertainment companies who bring the party to your house, and we think they really take the (birthday) cake!

Having a playground in your neighborhood is ideal. It’s a nice break from playing in your own yard and a great place to meet up for playdates. But going to the same playground over and over can get tiresome for adventurous kids. Luckily several special playgrounds near Boston are worth packing up the snacks and strollers and getting in the car. Here are 12 of the best that are ready to host your kids’ summer adventures.

Looking for more incredible playgrounds near Boston? We've rounded up our favorite theme playgrounds, brain-boosting playgrounds, and the Best Tot Lots and Toddler Playgrounds in Boston.

There’s a lot more to Madison than just being the capital of  Wisconsin. Situated on two beautiful lakes sits the home of the University of Wisconsin, an epicenter of culture, great food, and (most importantly) so much family fun. From the children’s museum to the zoo and all the fun and festivities the university has to offer, you’ll find something for everyone in Madison. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway from Chicago or visiting the city as part of a Midwest tour that includes stops in Milwaukee and Minneapolis, here are our favorite things to do, places to eat, and outdoor activities in Madison.

For more weekend getaways check out our Family Friendly Weekend Getaway list and our Midwest Travel Guide.

You know how it goes: It’s a beautiful day, and you’re hoping to take the kids to a playground to burn off some energy and enjoy the weather. But finding a spot that isn’t directly in the sun—not only making the kids uncomfortable but the equipment often too hot to even play on—can be a challenge. Thankfully, Westchester boasts plenty of playgrounds with shade.

These spots offer either natural or artificial shade over their play structures. And while parents love the fact they’re not in the direct sun, the kids love the sheer variety of equipment these playgrounds have to offer—from nature-inspired fun to plenty of swings and slides.

Here are a few of our favorite local shade-drenched spots. Find more of our parent-tested playgrounds in our Guide to Playgrounds, including our top picks for toddlers and those playgrounds that make great day-trip destinations.