Long Island has some great beaches and beach communities beyond the ever-popular Hamptons options.

On both coasts of Nassau and western Suffolk counties, many communities boast gorgeous seashores and so much more. Attractions include bustling boardwalks, picture-perfect marinas, tons of shopping options, excellent dining spots, playgrounds and parks, and free outdoor music and events.

Read on for a rundown of a dozen Long Island beach towns not on the East End–plus a quickie guide to Fire Island. These communities are so charming you could check out a different one each week and still have a few left over to visit come fall. For more fun things to do this season, check out our Summer Fun Guide, and be sure to bookmark our frequently-updated Family Activity Calendar.

Judy Garland once crooned, “Meet me in St. Louis”—and understandably so. The second largest city in Missouri, St. Louis boasts beautiful Mississippi and Missouri River views and a fascinating history dating back to French fur traders in the 1760s. Plus, there are so many fun things to do in St. Louis with kids, making it a perfect family destination. Whether it's outdoor adventures, museums, theater, or sports, St. Louis has something that will pique any family's interests.

Here are 35 great things to do in St. Louis, MO with kids, including the best food and restaurants St. Louis has to offer and some unique St. Louis hotels. As a St. Louis local, I can also vouch that our city has plenty of free and affordable activities for families to enjoy.

For more Midwest family vacation ideas, check out our Midwest Family Travel Guide.

Boston is alive with history and proud of its patriotic past. But few of the city's museums and monuments can dazzle kids like the three-masted frigate docked in Charlestown Navy Yard. The USS Constitution is a floating museum. Known as "Old Ironsides" since the War of 1812, it is the oldest commissioned ship in the United States Navy. Today, Old Ironsides serves as a tribute to–and connection with–our shared history and tradition of freedom. And it has some pretty awesom hands-on activities too! Read on for our guide to visiting the USS Constitution with kids.

The USS Constitution is just one of our picks for the Top Attractions in Boston: Best Things To See and Do with Kids. For more hands-on history that's just a stroll away, check out 15 Coolest Spots for Kids on the Freedom Trail. And always check out our Boston Events Calendar for the latest exhibits, presentations, and activities in and around the city.

Who's ready for a FREE outdoor activity that can be enjoyed by kids and adults together? Grab a pole and head to one of these fabulous fishing lakes near Houston, where the fish are plentiful and families can enjoy being outdoors together. Fishing can foster a sense of achievement and accomplishment in kids, is a great way to teach patience and persistence while enjoying nature. Most of the fishing lakes listed below are at local parks near Houston, so you can pack a picnic, let the kids burn off steam at some awesome playgrounds, and spend the day with a fishing pole in hand.  

If you’re looking for some free, active, outdoor fun this summer, then Stamford’s Bartlett Arboretum & Gardens is the hidden gem you may have been missing! Tucked away in North Stamford, the Arboretum is home to 13 beautiful gardens and miles of easy to follow trails. So whether you’re a nature enthusiast or are just looking for a new outing, lace up your shoes and head out to explore. Read on for our tips on how to visit Bartlett Arboretum like a local.

Looking for more family-friendly activities in Connecticut? See our guide to 100 Things To Do with Kids in Connecticut Before They Grow Up. And be sure to check out all our picks for Free Fun Things To Do for Connecticut Kids.

Atlanta toddlers and preschoolers are curious, energetic, and active; during the summer, that means keeping them cool while letting them explore and play. Our list of summer activities in Atlanta for the younger set (think ages 18months-4 years) involve indoor attractions, easy (albeit sometimes a little messy) crafts, interactive games, and water...lots and lots of water!

For even more summer fun in Atlanta, check out our list of Fun and Free Summer Activities and Events Near Atlanta for Kids and our always popular Summer Fun Guide for Atlanta Kids.