New York City is no stranger to immersive entertainment—from Broadway shows and museums to pop-ups and interactive experiences. Families looking for hands-on, high-energy fun that's completely new and different now have a reason to head to Times Square. Two major attractions—The Great Big Game Show and The Escape Game—have officially opened inside the iconic Brill Building, bringing next-level, tech-enabled play right into the heart of Midtown.

Built side-by-side, these million-dollar game environments blend cinematic set design, intuitive technology, and group-friendly challenges that feel part game show, part adventure. It’s a fresh way for families and friends to play together, especially if you’re looking to break out of the usual tourist loop.

For more Times Square fun, check out our list of what to do beyond the usual tourist spots and our picks for the best Times Square restaurants for families.

We love a good family day out, but now that the kids are getting older, the struggle is real. It’s so much harder to find an exciting spot that gives good vibes to my teen, hits with my younger kids, and doesn't leave us parents just standing on the sidelines. 

My kids have been craving a fresh experience lately. And I think I’ve officially found the holy grail: NJ virtual reality (VR) arcades. VR arcades for NJ kids are the perfect way to get everyone—even teens—excited for a family day.

Read on for our guide to the top VR arcades throughout New Jersey, and, for more indoor fun, be sure to check out our stories on NJ's best trampoline parks, indoor water parks, and bowling alleys. 

Eating out can be a fun family experience, but it can also become stressful—and expensive—quickly. That’s why we surveyed local parents to find the most delicious and affordable restaurants in NYC.

This list includes some popular spots and a few hidden gems. Each restaurant offers kid-approved meals for less than $10—plus reasonable, appetizing options for hard-working parents ready to let someone else be the short-order cook for a night. Bonus: Many of these restaurants offer FREE kids’ meals with a paying adult.

For more advice from frugal NYC locals, check out our list of free and cheap activities and tips for saving money across the city.

Where to find cheap party rentals for kids' birthdays in Houston.

Their big day doesn't have to break the bank. 

Throw an epic birthday party for your child when you rent a bounce house or inflatable water slide in Atlanta. Birthday party inflatables provide nonstop fun, physical exercise, and can easily tie into your party theme. Better yet, many of these Atlanta bounce house companies provide delivery, setup, and take-down of all the equipment! You can also elevate your party with a popcorn machine, cotton candy machine, and other concessions.

And don't think your teen has outgrown bounce houses for a birthday party; inflatables now include obstacle courses and sports interactives such as axe throwing, jousting, climbing walls, and more. We’ve listed even more Atlanta rental companies, offering everything from outdoor movie screens, concessions, silent discos, and karaoke to gaming trucks, laser tag equipment, and petting zoos. Take a look now!