The other day, as my email inbox was filling up with back-to-school information and the phone was ringing with reminders of registration deadlines for fall activities, I found myself flipping through summer photos on my phone and reminiscing, and I realized that there was one thing missing. We've had fun days at the beach and musical evenings in various parks, and even some berry picking, but we haven't had that one special adventure, the one big splurge to remember this summer by.

We have a range of interests from animals to water sports to ice cream and even camping, so there are many variables to consider. We'll be making our final decision this week, but here's what's on our short list so far:

What is it about summer that makes even the most uptight parent want to bend the rules a bit? Like healthy dinner rules? How about ice cream for dinner? Go ahead....we won't tell. As temperatures sore to sweltering heights, and we look for new ways to cool down, ice cream has become a must-have. And as luck would have it, our state has some delicious ice cream joints!

Whether you’re looking to dazzle your taste buds with a quirky flavor or go for an old-fashioned milkshake, we've rounded up a list of amazing ice cream shops that will have New Jersey kids and parents celebrating all that is summer.

With fall just around the corner, and the cooler weather that comes with it, families are eager to venture out of their air conditioned homes for crisp air, beautifully changing leaves, and outdoor fun without the mosquitos and humidity. What better way to see the natural beauty of Pennsylvania than a day trip to one of this state's many enchanting waterfalls? We've compiled a list of some of the best waterfalls within a reasonable drive of Philly. Taking into account families with younger kids, all of these waterfalls are easily accessible from the road or with just a short walk on easy-to-navigate trails.

After more than a decade of planning and preparation, the Boston Public Market finally opened in 2015. And it’s been a huge hit ever since. It’s essentially a year-round farmers market where you can also get a great meal from one of the prepared food vendors. The market is a terrific place to take kids for a special treat (think locally made doughnuts or ice cream), an event, a cooking class, or just to explore. Make a day of it by heading to nearby Christopher Columbus Park, which has one of the best playgrounds in Boston.

Blue Waters Resort and Spa in Antigua is not your everyday vacation destination. This luxury spot is perfect for that special-occasion getaway, especially a multigenerational family vacation. With villas that can be configured for 1-6 bedrooms and a staff that makes sure everything goes smoothly, families can plan a truly get-away-from-it-all trip, including all the logistics and interests of a big-family vacation, and feel confident it will be a hit.

Antigua is known for its laid-back and friendly people, bright blue waters and 365 sandy beaches. Blue Waters Resort offers all that, with luxury suites, and service to boot. The staff is as friendly as it gets and bends over backward to make sure you are happy.

While the past few months may have been filled with camp activities, vacations and carefree days, the lazy, hazy days of summer are coming to an end and that means the kiddies need to get used to school again. Beat summer brain drain with these educational and inspirational events and activities to help get those wheels turning again. Be sure to check out our Summer Guide for more warm weather ideas.

Tired of visiting the same old parks? If your local jungle gym has recently lost its luster, be grateful that you live in (or are visiting) Orange County, where you can take your tykes to explore one of the hidden gems below. From giant Legos to beachfront slides to fountains and duck ponds, there are plenty of captivating playgrounds to explore throughout Southern California, but it takes a real OC native to know all five of these boredom-busting tot lots. Pick any one of them for an outing the whole family can enjoy.

Whether you live in NYC or are just visiting, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is probably on your list of places to explore with kids. In addition to its engaging exhibits, the Met is known for its top-notch family programs and drop-in art-making opportunities for all ages.

Of course, all that walking, looking and sketching makes you tired and hungry. While the Met is located on the kid-friendly Upper East Side, many of the nearby restaurants are better suited to date night than a casual family meal. That's why we've rounded up a dozen spots within walking distance of the Metropolitan Museum of Art that welcome families.