10 Indoor Play Spaces in New Haven County for Connecticut Kids

Julia Tolstrup's picture Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on

If your kids are anything like my two bundles of non-napping energy, there are days when you just need to let them run free – but preferably within a confined indoor space. There are a few notable play areas that are perfect for tiring kids out on cold or wet days in New Haven County, in particular. Inexpensive and varied, each indoor play space has its own charm.  For more indoor fun check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.

10 Places to Take Kids Ice Skating for Free in Boston

Elyse Andrews's picture Submitted by Elyse Andrews on

We're huge fans of the many outdoor ice rinks that open every winter around Boston, but these popular (and touristy) spots can get pretty crowded and just a bit pricey. What’s a Boston mom or dad to do? Don't worry: Boston happens to have lots of public skating options that are totally free! Here’s what you need to know to have a fun, no-cost time as a family at these 10 free skating rinks around town.

February School Break: 35 Fun Things to Do with NYC Kids

Submitted by Rosalind Muggeridge on

Time seems to be flying by, but for many families, the midwinter recess is a great time to slow things down and create some special memories. The 2019 midwinter break kicks off for New York City public schools on Saturday, February 16 and continues through Sunday, February 24, giving kids 9 full days of holiday playtime. To help you make the most of the February vacation, we've rounded up 35 things to do with kids across all five boroughs.

Lucky for us, NYC museums, ice rinks, parks, and other fun zones host a ton of special activities during the school break. Some of our picks take place on specific dates, others run the entire time, and many are completely FREE like the NYC Parks Kids' Week events.

The extra days off also make it a great time to book a couple of nights away as a family with these more budget-minded getaways, or to pile onto the train or into the car for a day trip to a top kid spot.

Remember you can always search our Event Calendar for more February break week happenings. (Tip: Search for a specific day or with the word "break.")

12 Stores That Offer Free and Low-Cost Classes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Susan Miele on

Keeping kids educated and entertained can cost a pretty penny, so we like to help our readers find ways to keep expenses from getting out of hand. That’s why we keep our eyes peeled for FREE and low-cost classes and activities for kids of all ages.

Below we’ve rounded up classes offered by local stores, which include STEM programs, crafting, fitness, and more. We’re big fans of the $0 price tag, but we’ve also included a few that allow for one-time visits up to about $30. Many stores have various locations, so be sure to check with these to confirm local schedules, offerings, and rates.

Looking for more? We’ve previously rounded up 60 FREE Places to Play, which include stores, nature centers, play spaces, and other venues. Of course, libraries are also a great resource, and many offer one-time and recurring classes in coding, 3D printing, yoga, Zumba, cooking, and more. Most importantly, keep tabs on our Event Calendar, where we curate the best local events with a heavy emphasis on FREE and inexpensive.

Cheap Thrills: 30+ Drop-in Play Spaces for NJ Kids That Cost $15 or Less

Submitted by Margaret Hargrove on

When it’s too cold for the playground, and another playdate at home seems dull (or, to be honest, too stressful), taking your kid to a warm indoor play space is a welcome respite for the whole family. 

New Jersey has no shortage of indoor playgrounds from North Jersey to South Jersey, plenty of which offer drop-in hours. Still, many of these hot spots require long-term memberships or pricey entrance fees that often run $20 to $25 per child for a single drop-in.

When you just need someplace clean, fun and warm for your kids to play—that's not your living room—we found more than 30 indoor gems, all for $15 per child or significantly less, and some that are absolutely free! Your kids still get out of the house to experience a play space where everything seems new to them, and you don't have to clean up after, or empty your wallet! 

And don't forget your nearby shopping mall, where you'll often find low-key indoor playgrounds where kids can work out the wiggles while you shop. 

Find more indoor fun spots in our local NJ guide, or try these at-home boredom busters for days when you just want to stay in. If you find yourself with a full day to fill and you're up for a little more adventure, plan a winter day trip.

Free Indoor Play Places for Philly Area Kids

Submitted by Jennifer Vishnevsky on

Any time of year, Philly parents might be wondering where to go for a fun escape from the cooler weather or hot sun. Thankfully, Philadelphia is home to tons of museums and playgrounds, but did you know that there are also plenty of family-friendly spots for free indoor fun? We've rounded up some great indoor venues below, and also some other spots that parents will enjoy as well. Did we mention they're all free?

Long Island Attractions Free for Toddlers and Babies Under 2

Jaime Sumersille's picture Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on

Looking for places to stay and play with your little one without breaking the bank? There are destinations on Long Island that offer fun for all without a hefty price tag. Check out this list of local hot spots where babies ages 2 and younger are FREE.

Now, what to do with all the extra cash? Peep our list of top mommy-and-me baby classes on Long Island and also check out our indoor activities or baby age guides for some ideas.

100 Things To Do in Chicago with Kids Before They Grow Up

Submitted by Siobhan Adcock on

Chicago is home to so many incredible parks, playgrounds, museums, and things to do with kids that one childhood doesn't seem like enough time to fit them all in—though who could blame you for trying? That's why we rounded up this list of great things to do with kids in Chi-town. Whether it's racing with your toddler through the sprinklers at Mary Bartelme Park, wowing your preschooler at the Field Museum, gliding with your grade-schooler on the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, or taking in engineering marvels with your tween at the Chicago Architecture Center, take advantage of everything this beautiful city has to offer kids of all ages. We're also big fans of FREE fun, so we included as much of that as possible.

Whether you're a local or a visitor to the Windy City, we hope you can use this list to make some great new memories with your kids. Now I'm off to scarf some Chicago-style hot dogs at Portillo's.

11 Free Perks That Come with Your LA Public Library Card

Submitted by Stephanie C on

What’s small and plastic, hides in your wallet, and comes packed with free surprises for the whole family? You may think your Los Angeles Public Library card is all about books you can check out from one of LA or the OC's fabulous public libraries—and that’s certainly one of its charms—but it also contains some little-known perks that can save you money and entertain a few restless kiddos. Bonus: Many of these freebies can be enjoyed 24/7, from the comfort of your own couch.

7 Indoor Water Parks in New England

Submitted by Fiona Haley on

Dreaming of warm waters and balmy temperatures? A tropical vacation may be out of the question, but an indoor water park venture is just as thrilling for kids (and a lot less debilitating to the budget). We've reviewed seven water parks—some big and splashy, others small and convenient— that are within a one- to five-hour drive of Boston. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip or a weekend escape, there are plenty of options for sneaking in some water fun before swimming season officially begins. No matter where you go, be sure to call ahead and check about special rates; and consider planning a trip for a weekday or weeknight outside of school vacation to steer clear of crowds.

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