How to Turn Your Backyard or Neighborhood Into an Interactive Adventure Map This Summer

Fight summer slump by creating an interactive adventure map with your kids that turns your backyard, neighborhood, or nearby park into a one-of-kind adventure!

Taking inspiration from Rowley Jefferson's Awesome Friendly Adventure—a sharp, funny, fantastical addition to the Diary of a Wimpy Kid series from #1 international bestselling author Jeff Kinney—a hands-on map can take kids on a journey of epic proportions. Read on to find out how to make your map and where you can snag Rowley Jefferson’s other chart-topping books, plus the rest of the Wimpy Kid collection.

Smorgasburg, Queens Night Market, and More Kid-Friendly Foodie Destinations for Summer

The options are endless at the Queens Night Market. Photo courtesy of the market

Summer evenings scream for alfresco eats, and New Yorkers have plenty of options, from kid-friendly restaurants with outdoor space to family-friendly beer gardens. Another option: the spate of outdoor markets popping up across the boroughs, with international eats, live music, and plenty of people watching. Even better, we’ve perused the options and culled a selection of eateries in these popular markets to please even the pickiest kids. Read on to find your next favorite outdoor family dinner spot.

Family-Friendly Beer Gardens in Westchester and the Hudson Valley

Mill House Brewing Company offers a warm, historic, and visually appealing setting.

Summer is finally here, and it's time to start truly enjoying some outdoor fun. Here's something the whole family can get in on: going to one of the beer gardens in the area. Sure, a beer garden might not seem like the first place you’d take little ones, but with kid-friendly food and even games and toys, it can be a great spot to spend a sunny afternoon. If you're searching for some other family-friendly fare this season, bookmark this list of kid-friendly outdoor dining spots.

Family-Friendly Beer Gardens in New Jersey

Kids will love the food while parents have a tasty brew at The Alementary.

It's summertime, and we've got an idea to add to your list of outdoor destinations to visit with your crew: a family-friendly beer garden. Surprised? Don't be! These venues can be a pretty fun place for the whole family to grab a bite (and a sip) and enjoy some quality together time. Bring some small toys or card games, order some pretzels, kick back, and enjoy. Find more family-friendly picks for eating out in our Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide.

Blueberry Picking in Connecticut: Pick Your Own Farms

Blueberry picking. Photo courtesy of Bishop's Orchards

Come and pick 'em folks! The following is a list of Connecticut farms that grow pick-your-own blueberries. Fresh blueberries are in their prime from mid-July through mid-August. 

When picking, select berries that are firm, dry, plump, smooth-skinned, and completely blue. The fruit is often covered with a light white coating called "bloom," which helps prevent deterioration. Water on blueberries accelerates rotting, so don't wash them until you are ready to use them. If you store freshly picked berries in the refrigerator, unwashed and covered, they should last up to two weeks. Freezing is always a good option, too. For raspberries and other fresh picked fruit, check out our Pick-Your-Own Farm Guide.

The Best Boat Rides for Families in Los Angeles

Hop on the WaterBus in the Marina. Photo courtesy of Visit Marina del Rey

There are so many great places in Los Angeles to get out on the water with your family. From the many harbors and marinas to the vast Pacific Ocean (and even local lakes and reservoirs), the opportunities for boating in Southern California are endless. However, not all boating experiences are family-friendly, so we’ve highlighted the best boating options by vessel type and setting. So whether you want to whale watch, take a trip to a local island, or just swan around a lake, these are the best boat rides in LA for kids of all ages.

Best Things to Do with Kids at Universal Orlando's CityWalk

Enjoy a round at Hollywood Drive-In Golf. Photo courtesy of Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando's theme parks offer a ton of kid-focused entertainment, but what about CityWalk?

Self-proclaimed as "The Epicenter of Awesome," CityWalk is Universal’s entertainment district, complete with dining, shopping, live music, and more. It is primarily known for its nightlife, but there are many things at CityWalk families can enjoy as well, from miniature golf and movies to themed dining and donuts. Read on for things to do with kids while visiting Universal's CityWalk.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier: Nostalgic Family Fun by the Beach

Pleasure Pier Gulf Glider

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is iconic for many reasons, including that it is the closest theme park to Houston, with a history that reflects our city's resilience. At Pleasure Pier you can hop on the Texas Star Flyer and get a bird's eye view of the Gulf of Mexico, test your luck at classic carnival games, and enjoy a full day of classic family fun. There are several restaurants and shops as well as beach entry just steps away from the pier, making it a great Houston day trip with the kids.

For more fun things to do at Galveston, check out our top recommendations for families, from great beaches to where you can see a dolphin in Galveston Bay.

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