My Perfect Day in NYC: A Walk on the Brooklyn Bridge

A walk across the Brooklyn Bridge is a fun diversion—and photo-op—in any season. Photo by Diana Kim

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in the world and one of NYC's top attractions for families. Whether you're a visitor or a local, walking the Brooklyn Bridge with kids should definitely be on your NYC bucket list.

The iconic suspension bridge was built in 1883 and became the first East River crossing to connect Manhattan and Brooklyn. It spans just over 6,000 feet—or 1.1 miles—and is made up of approximately 13,000 wooden planks.

Walking the Brooklyn Bridge with kids makes for a great family activity and one that's FREE to boot. Plan a perfect family day in NYC with our Brooklyn Bridge walking itinerary, which includes tips for walking the Brooklyn Bridge with kids, nearby activities on both the Brooklyn and Manhattan sides, and FAQs for a fun and stress-free adventure.

Find all our top things to do in our Visitor's Guide to New York City.

Best San Francisco and Bay Area Libraries with Indoor Play Spaces

Slide into the Redwood Romp Play Space. Photo courtesy of Santa Clara County

Looking for an indoor spot where your little ones can climb, explore, and burn some energy without you having to shell out money for a play space? The Bay Area is home to some truly amazing public libraries that go way beyond books—think treehouse slides, fish tanks, hands-on stations, and cozy corners perfect for a midweek escape or a rainy-day reset. Whether you’ve got a curious toddler or a big kid who loves to get lost in a good story (or a STEM wall), these libraries are meant for families to stay awhile.

From the immersive “Storybook” play spaces popping up in the South Bay to kid-friendly reading rooms tucked into historic branches in San Francisco, these spots offer free, low-key fun that feels anything but boring. We rounded up our favorite Bay Area libraries where kids can actually play, explore, and hang out, not just check out a book and go.

For more budget-friendly indoor fun, check out these free museum days for kids in San Francisco. Let kids keep the indoor fun going at these indoor playgrounds and play spaces in San Francisco, and browse our Guide to Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces for San Francisco Kids

14 Birthday Party Places in Westchester and the Hudson Valley for Teens

Gather friends for a climbing party at The Cliffs at Valhalla. Photo courtesy of the facility

Teen birthday party ideas in Westchester and the Hudson Valley may seem tougher to come by than the princess- or pirate-themed fiestas that work for the younger set, but there are lots of options, including parties centered on art, games, rock climbing, or–believe it or not–skydiving.

Read on for a list of options sure to please your older kid. And, if you’re looking for more birthday ideas, check out our Kids' Birthday Party Guide for Westchester Families, which includes info on where to get a great cake.

Unique Long Island Birthday Party Places for Kids

Free admission for all your birthday guests at Long Island Aquarium means there’s plenty of time to explore the exhibits. Photo by the author

Every year, as the birthday party invites roll in, a pattern emerges. It's the same party spots over and over.

If you're looking to shake things up with a unique party venue for your child's birthday, look no further. We've rounded up some unique venues on Long Island, ranging from stately museums to immersive play spaces. 

For more birthday party fun, check out our Birthday Party Guide, which includes our story on kids' birthday party entertainers on Long Island who come to you.

Action-Packed Go-Kart Tracks in New Jersey for a Wild Ride

The Funplex is a perfect go-kart track for less-experienced drivers. Photo courtesy of the venue.

Ready for thrilling, high-speed family fun? Then it’s time to explore the best go-kart tracks in New Jersey for kids and families! Here are eight of the best go-kart tracks in NJ that will get your blood pumping and your adrenaline rushing as your family has an unforgettable day out.

These New Jersey go-kart tracks are a mix of indoor and outdoor destinations, but they're all guaranteed to bring a little excitement to your next family outing. Want more heart-pounding inspiration? Find it on our roundup of the best extreme sports destinations in New Jersey.

Beyond the Bounce House: Only-in-NYC Birthday Party Spots for Your Little New Yorker

A birthday party on the legendary aircraft carrier Intrepid is a unique birthday celebration that your child will love.  Photo courtesy of the Intrepid

Forget pizza in the party room and been-there-done-that trampoline parks—this is New York City, after all! When it comes to finding the best NYC kids' birthday parties, the options are as unique and exciting as the city itself. From birthday parties at world-class museums with hands-on fun to immersive play spaces you won’t find anywhere else, we’ve rounded up the most unique, only-in-NYC birthday party venues for kids that promise a celebration your child—and their guests—won’t soon forget.

So, whether you’ve got a budding artist, a junior scientist, or an energetic explorer, there’s a perfect party spot waiting in the five boroughs. Read on for our picks for the most unique, only-in-NYC birthday party venues and find more ideas for all ages and interests in our Kids' Guide to Birthday Parties in NYC.

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