Balloon Story Brings Eye-Popping Displays and Interactive Fun to Park Avenue Armory

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Dive into interactive exhibits and whimsical creations at Balloon Story.

Wild animals, far-off lands, Instagram-friendly backdrops, and one seriously large ball pit come together this summer at Balloon Story, the inflatable wonderland that's transformed the Park Avenue Armory into an immersive experience that's a perfect diversion from summer's soaring temperatures.

Read on for a sneak peek at this pop-up experience that's only in town through August and find more kid-friendly immersive museums and pop-up experiences in NYC in our NYC Kids Guide to Museums, Galleries, and Exhibits.

30 Best Summer Camps in Houston

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Two girls enjoying a fun gymnastics summer camp in Houston. Photo courtesy of the Houston Gymnastics Academy

Looking for summer camps in Houston? Here's a list of our favorites in each section of the city.

For folks looking for summer camps in Houston, those sweltering months for which Texas is known might feel right around the corner. Get ahead of the pack and find a camp to fill your child's summer break with enriching activities they'll love. From Houston summer camps focusing on nature and the great outdoors to sports, arts, science, and more, this list of our favorite summer camps in Houston is sure to have an option that will encourage your child's imagination and creativity while challenging them in exciting ways.

If you're looking for unique and fun summer camps for your kiddos to gain new skills, friends, and confidence, these 30 Houston summer camps for kids have something for everyone. Check out our comprehensive Houston Summer Camp Guide for more summer camp or vacation ideas. And if you'd prefer to search by age, interest, or area, you can browse our full directory of camps.

Best Above Ground Pools and Pool Accessories

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Invite the whole gang over for a dip in your new above ground pool. Photo by Ally Noel

Above ground pools are the ultimate game-changer, turning your backyard into a cool oasis of fun without draining your wallet.

Summer is here, and that means it's time for backyard barbecues, lazy afternoons, and making a splash right at home! When the mercury soars and braving the summer traffic to the lake or beach feels more like a chore than a retreat, stepping outside can be downright unbearable. Well, we have the perfect solution. 

From epic water battles to serene evening floats, these budget-friendly pools are all about maximizing the good times with minimal hassle. So, grab your sunscreen and favorite floaty—let’s dive into the wonderful world of (affordable) above ground pools!

If you need some pool toys, we've also rounded up our favorite Crazy Awesome Pool Floats for Kids and Babies This Summer and everyone needs more Eco-Friendly Sunscreen for Kids, which you'll find in the
Mommy Poppins Ultimate Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Staten Island Zoo Is Animal-Packed Adventure for Little Ones

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Indoor exhibits let kids get up close with animals in their habitats.

If you're looking for animal adventures in the Big Apple might we suggest the Staten Island Zoo—one of NYC's true hidden gems? While there are so many wonderful zoos in NYC, the compact Staten Island Zoo is seemingly overlooked. It has a perfect layout for small children and is packed with interesting species for kids of all ages to explore, plus it offers fun, family-friendly programming. Its admission fees are reasonable, so consider this your sign to head across the Verrazzano or take a FREE ferry ride to this under-the-radar NYC animal haven. 

Big Laughs and Family Fun at This Interactive Dungeons & Dragons Inspired Live Show

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Inspired by the fantasy role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is a hilarious and highly-interactive new show.

You don’t need to be a Dungeon Master to laugh your head off at the new fully-immersive Dungeons & Dragons inspired live show in Times Square.

Inspired by the beloved fantasy role-playing tabletop game, Dungeons & Dragons: The Twenty-Sided Tavern is a hilarious and highly-interactive new production that ticks all of the boxes for a super entertaining, one-of-a-kind NYC outing fit for gamers and non-gamers alike.

With my very excited 9-year-old son and his best friend in tow, I recently hopped on the subway to 42nd Street to check out the much-buzzed-about comedy that opened for previews in April of this year. Read on for my review, plus learn everything you need to know about The Twenty-Sided Tavern–including how to enter the digital lottery for discounted tickets.

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