One of my favorite things about raising children in NYC is the sheer number of parks, playgrounds, and hidden gems to explore. When my kids and I get bored with our local haunts, we hop on the train to check out a new-to-us space.

If the summer doldrums are kicking in and you’re ready to break out of your routine, head to one of these hidden parks in NYC for a breath of fresh air. And, for more summer fun, check out our epic NYC summer bucket list or our ultimate guide to NYC splash pads and water playgrounds.

Cancun is a longtime favorite for families, thanks to its turquoise beaches, endless activities, and abundance of all-inclusive resorts. But as any seasoned parent knows, not all all-inclusives are created equal. Peak travel season can bring packed buffets, underwhelming food, and sky-high prices.

I’ve stayed at more than my share of resorts in Mexico with my family, from budget-friendly to bougie. So when I heard about the newest addition to Cancun’s hotel scene, AVA Resort, I was eager to see if it lived up to the buzz.

Read on for my honest take on AVA Resort Cancun, including what worked, what was wow-worthy, and why it’s worth a spot on your shortlist for your next family beach escape. For even more family vacation ideas in Mexico, check out our Family Travel Guide and our list of the best all-inclusive resorts for families.

Nothing stirs up the fun and creates memories quite like getting hands-on in the kitchen. Kids of all ages can stir, mix, roll, and bake their way to confidence and creativity with these cooking classes for kids in NYC. Whether your toddler is just starting to explore new tastes or your teen is ready to master serious skills, these children's cooking classes serve delicious fun for every age and ability. From sprinkle-covered cupcakes and global snacks to full three-course dinners, there’s a culinary adventure waiting to satisfy every appetite.

So, tie on those aprons and fire up the ovens, because these kid-friendly cooking classes are more than fun: They’re a recipe for learning, independence, and memories. Scroll down for a taste of some of the best NYC cooking schools for kids. For even more ideas, check out our NYC Kids' Guide to Classes, or visit our directory, where you can find tons of classes for kids no matter their age or interest.

If you haven’t explored San Jose with kids yet, you’re in for a surprise. This South Bay city often flies under the radar, but it’s packed with family-friendly gems, think hands-on museums, giant playgrounds, quirky local history, and even a few wild peacocks. Whether you’ve got toddlers who love trains or tweens who crave techy fun, San Jose has something for every age (and energy level). As a local parent, I’ve spent plenty of weekends testing out these spots with my crew, and this list is full of go-tos, hidden gems, and places worth the drive.

From indoor bounce zones to gorgeous hiking trails and immersive science museums, here are some fun things to do with kids in and around San Jose. Check them out, make a list, and start making plans!

For more adventures in the Bay Area, discover all there is to do in Oakland with kids, plan adventures in Santa Cruz with kids, and discover more easy day trips in our Weekend Getaway Guide and Day Trips for San Francisco Kids.