The Best Playgrounds in Los Angeles: They’re Even Worth Crossing the 405

Vincent Lugo Park, also called Dinosaur or Monster Park, was nominated to the California Register of Historic Places. Photo courtesy of the City of San Gabriel

Playgrounds in Los Angeles provide endless entertainment for kids of all ages. Remember the days of busted swings and boring slides? Well, kids growing up in LA will never have those memories; the best playgrounds in Los Angeles (which are open again, hallelujah) are bastions of play and creativity for kids of all ages and abilities.

These LA playgrounds feature rocket ships and pirate ships, fire trucks and trains, sea creatures, and more. There are climbing structures, sand pits, thrilling ziplines, and playgrounds that honor the original inhabitants of the land. While the neighborhood playground is great for every day use, sometimes cooped-up kids need something new. And these playgrounds have the ultimate accolade: they're worth crossing the 405!

For more playground inspiration, check our guide to LA's top parks and playgrounds, or our list of the best beach playgrounds in Los Angeles and Orange County

21 Must-Try Ice Cream Shops Near DC for a Cold Treat

Cool off with some of the DC area's best ice cream! Photo by Kelly Patino, courtesy of Mommy Poppins.

Though summer in the DC area can be hot and sticky, there are plenty of fun ways to beat the heat—including a plethora of delicious ice cream shops near DC that are sure so satisfy any sweet tooth. And while we've got plenty of love for the nationwide ice cream chains, sometimes you just want to go somewhere more local and special.

Read on for our list of 21 great ice cream shops near DC, many of which are near other attractions like parks and playgrounds. Some of them stick with what they do best (ice cream), while others offer extra goodies such as cookies and cakes.

For more great ways to keep cool this summer—including our lists of outdoor water parks and free public swimming pools near DC—check out our Summer Activities Guide for DC Kids.

Best Ice Cream Spots in Atlanta for Kids

Ice cream never fails to put a smile on kids' faces! Photo by the author

Who wants ice cream? Everybody, especially in the summer! Fortunately, we have no shortage of ice cream near Atlanta. We've got all the big ice cream chains, but we especially love local ice cream spots—these ice cream parlors are the ones that really hit the sweet spot. It was a tough job, researching and tasting various flavors and styles of ice cream near Atlanta, but somebody had to do it! Read on for the "scoop" on the yummiest ice cream spots near Atlanta, including local mobile ice cream and popsicle stands. 

Best Summer Fairs and Festivals in New Jersey July 2025

The Ocean County Fair has live music, animal acts, rides, and classic fair food. Photo courtesy of the fair

Looking for the best July fairs and festivals for New Jersey families? Here are some great options to add to your list.

Soak up the sun and take in the summery sights at family-friendly summer fairs and festivals throughout New Jersey this month, including the 87th Annual Warren County Farmers’ Fair and Hot Air Balloon Festival, featuring rides, entertainment, and children's activities. Plus, lots of county fairs offer good, old-fashioned fun in July—swing by events in Ocean and Monmouth counties, among others.

Read on for more info on the great New Jersey fairs and festivals happening in July. 

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