Splash pads are such an excellent way to cool off during the summer. Most are at kid playgrounds, and parents love these free and easy spots where it's almost guaranteed for little ones to have a blast without going to one of their favorite beaches. Splash pads are perfect for toddlers that aren't quite swim-ready yet, not to say that kids of all ages can't have fun. 

We've rounded up our favorite splash pads and parks where kids can jump, splash, and beat the heat all for free, and also included some not-to-be-missed water parks for when everyone needs a day in the pool to cool off. Don't forget to pack a change of clothes and some snacks for an afternoon of serious water fun! 

For more summer fun on a budget, explore awesome free things to do in San Francisco this summer with kids, and dive into our Ultimate San Francisco Kids Summer Vacation Guide.  

Check out these iconic things to do in Philadelphia with kids—including attractions, events, activities, museums, and more—that every native Philly kid really must experience.

All parents know how quickly the years pass as we watch our babies grow into big kids. Philadelphia is such a great place to raise kids; there are so many amazing events and activities to enrich kids' lives and create special memories right here in the City of Brotherly Love.

If you've lived here for a while, you may have already done many of these, but I bet you can still find some new ideas on this list. With a city so rich in culture, history, recreation, world-class museums, theaters, zoos, parks, and annual festivals, the time to get out and start exploring is now!

Looking for the best kids' birthday party themes? We've got you covered!

Choosing a theme is the first step towards planning an epic kids' birthday party, and for picky kids, it can be tricky. We've got a birthday party theme for every interest you can imagine—and then some you probably couldn't!

From trending themes, like Barbie, to classic dinosaur parties, we've rounded up suggestions that will appeal to kids with every obsession. Plus, we've got tips for easy ways to throw the party of your child's dreams.

Here are 100 popular kids' birthday party themes for everyone from 1-year-olds to teens. Visit our Guide to Kids' Birthday Parties for more ideas on throwing your child an epic birthday bash, including birthday cakes you can make at home and the best goody bags and party favor ideas.

Long Branch is an often-overlooked New Jersey beach town steeped in history. One of the largest towns on the Jersey Shore, Long Branch has recently experienced a rebirth and there are plenty of fun activities for children all year long. Walk the boards, grab a bite at one of the many family-friendly restaurants, take in a show, visit an art festival, spend time at the beach, and much more. 

Here’s our list of 25 fun things to do in Long Branch, New Jersey, for kids and families!

Check out our New Jersey Beaches, Lakes, Pools, and Water Parks Guide for more on NJ's best beaches. 

Looking for the best ice cream places in NYC? Look no further for icy cold treats! We rounded up the coolest only-in-NYC favorites.

When it came to ice cream treats in the Midwest in the '80s, we had one ice cream option: Dairy Queen. Don’t get me wrong, that twist cone hit the spot, but its simplicity certainly makes the variety of cold treats in NYC that much more impressive. The top of the parental joy list has to be those excited eyes my girls get when presented with a frrrozen hot chocolate, gelato, or ice pop! Go beyond the basic cone and try something new and cool this summer.

From ice pops in Crown Heights to Little Italy's plant-based gelato, we've got the tastiest and most unique icy treats in town. We've also rounded up the best ice cream places in NYC and the top spots for outrageous ice cream sundaes in NYC. Beyond these sweets, find more kid-approved eats in our Guide to Family-Friendly Restaurants in NYC.

The Santa Barbara Zoo will entertain kids of all ages with captivating attractions and unforgettable animal encounters. It’s also a picturesque outing not far from the waterfront. It’s so close to the waterfront that you can see the sandy shore and ocean when visiting the giraffes. 

My family and I recently went to this beloved “zoo with a view” for the first time, and we found it spectacular. It’s considered a smaller zoo, yet brims with extraordinary animal sightings. I loved that I didn’t have to walk miles between exhibits. They were close to one another, making it simple and pleasant to stroll around with a small child. Keep reading below for the not-to-miss sights and tips for the Santa Barbara Zoo. 

While in Santa Barbara, explore the best things to do in Santa Barbara with kids. If more zoos are in your future, discover the secrets of the LA Zoo, and our guide to Zoos and Gardens for Los Angeles Kids.

Long Island beaches offer the opportunity for memory-making experiences. Some of the best include time frolicking on the playground to the soundtrack of crashing summer waves. We've rounded up some of the best beach spots with playgrounds in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End. So pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying these destinations. Make sure to snap pictures of the smiles from a fun day in the sun.

And remember Long Island has plenty of family-friendly beaches. While you're at it, check off a few activities on our list of 25 things we can't wait to do with Long Island kids this summer and see more great ideas in our Ultimate Long Island Kids Summer Vacation Guide.