20 Spots to Pick Peaches, Sweet Corn, Cherries, and More With Boston Kids

Elyse Andrews's picture Submitted by Elyse Andrews on

Massachusetts may not have a long growing season, but local farms make the most of the few months they have each year to produce bountiful fruits and vegetables. There are a lot of places to strawberry, blueberry, or apple picking near Boston, but don't forget about other summer produce, like peaches, pears, plums, cherries, corn and more—even currants! Here are 20 nearby farms where kids can pick (and sample) lots of different types of luscious dessert and meal fixings, straight from the fields.

Free Things to Do with Philly Kids in July

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on

Philly families have lots to celebrate this July as the city comes alive with summertime fun. It all starts with a bang, and a boom, and a sparkle and a sizzle as Philly parents and kids celebrate America's birthday. There are plenty of free events that acknowledge the occasion. From free admission to museums to free parties, there is something for everyone in the family.

Later in the month, schedule time to watch a free outdoor movie or listen to a free concert under the stars. Avoid the summer slide by keeping young minds sharp with a trip to Big Blue Marble Bookstore or Doylestown Bookshop for a storytime session or check out educational programming opportunities at your local library in the city or in the suburbs. Dive into scientific exploration by climbing through a giant heart or experiencing the power of air at Franklin Institute. Ready for some fresh air? Head into nature by hiking the trails at Valley Forge Historic Park, discovering facts about the honey bee, or searching for backyard bugs.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your calendar, text some friends, and get ready for free July fun in Philly!

16 Kid-Friendly Restaurants With Room to Play in Houston

Submitted by Rachael Cherry on

Relaxing on the patio with good food and drinks is something that, prior to kids, we used to love to do... and then we had kids and going out to eat became nothing short of a nightmare that quickly got nixed from our weekend plans. Where we once sat back and talked uninterrupted about our respective weeks, we now went through constant rounds of "don't touch that!" and, "honey, leave those nice people alone." All seemed lost, and we resigned ourselves to spending our evenings out at Chick-fil-A... until we found restaurants with play spaces for kids (and the skies parted and the sun shone through!).

Talk about a game changer - it's like these restaurants knew that us parents needed a space to unwind a bit with the kids in tow, and they delivered with patios that opened up to enclosed playgrounds, sand pits (ok, this one is a catch-22 because of sand everywhere), and toys.

Best Swimming Pools for Westchester and Hudson Valley Families

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on

Nothing says summer like a day at the pool. Lucky for us, there’s no shortage of spots in Westchester and the lower Hudson Valley to take a dip. These area pools offer families everything from water slides and three-foot waves to a lazy river! Need a swimming break? At many of the pools, there are concession stands and places to picnic, as well as playgrounds, hiking trails, and other activities to truly make it a great day out. 

Here, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites. Some of these—particularly the Westchester pools—require county residency, so take note before you head out. Prefer splash pads instead? Check out our list of go-to spots—and look to our Summer Guide for even more outdoor fun. 

100+ Free Things To Do with Kids This Summer in New Jersey

Submitted by Laurie Rein on

Summer is the season for no-cost fun all across New Jersey. From fireworks and festivals to free outdoor movies, we’ve rounded up more than 100 family-friendly events to enjoy all summer long that won’t break the bank.

You can find even more cool seasonal activities and destinations in our Summer Fun Guide and Event Calendar. Have a fabulous (and free) summer, New Jersey!

50 Things to Do with Kids in the Hamptons and North Fork This Summer

Submitted by James Smith on

So much to do, so little time.

That’s a popular refrain on Long Island’s East End, where vacationers and residents alike struggle to pack as much adventure as possible into the 60-some days between school years. Which is where we come in, of course.    

Our Mommy Poppins experts have updated their list of the best fun things to do this summer and family-friendly events on the North and South forks. We’ve researched family beaches, state and county parks, pools, and even indoor options just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

So have a look, and while you’re at it check out our guide to this unique region, home to farms, museums, wineries, and even the trendy celebrity or two. Who knows: While you’re here, you might even scratch an item or two off our list of 100 must-do things with LI kids. Hurry, time’s a-wasting.

Best Free NYC Swimming Pools for Toddlers and Kids

Jody Mercier's picture Submitted by Jody Mercier on

It's summertime and the livin' is easy—beaches, sprinklers, and awesome days at the playground. Oh the hard life of a New York City kid. And the NYC Parks Department is poised to open its outdoor pools on Wednesday, June 27, 2018, the day after public schools let out.

We've rounded up our picks for the best free pools in the city. These are all places we've visited personally, or have come highly recommended by families we know. The city hosts more than 50 outdoor pools this summer, so it will be hard not to find one you like. Time to get swimming!

Camping Adventures Await in Connecticut

Submitted by Clementina Verge on

When done right, camping is a blast. It brings to reality idyllic stories of roasting marshmallows over a fire and telling imaginative stories while gazing at a night sky. Once the initial equipment is purchased, camping can be a frugal way to vacation – averaging about only $30 a night. Opportunities to camp around the country are endless, but if you’re new to camping or have young children, “experts” recommend beginning the adventure close to home. It just happens that Connecticut offers some fantastic campgrounds. We have five recommendations  for tent camping that your family can try out.  If you don't feel quite ready to pop up a tent, we mention a few locations that provide cabins for rent, while still keeping things basic. In addition, we offer some camping tips that will help make the experience that much more enjoyable.

For more ideas on how to have a great summer, browse our Summer Fun Guide.

Pages

Subscribe to Front page feed