One of Manhattan's most picturesque communities, the West Village is filled with historic houses on quaint and crooked tree-lined streets. This former countercultural epicenter is now home to many of New York's priciest restaurants, retail stores, and real estate. But there are still plenty of affordable and even FREE attractions for families to discover as you stroll through the labyrinth of this area and its sister neighborhood Greenwich Village. 

Beautifully renovated playgrounds pepper the area, including two in iconic Washington Square Park. Treat spots like cupcakeries and candy shops abound. Stretching from 14th to Houston Streets between Fifth Avenue and the Hudson River, this area may be cozy, but it's also packed with so many things to do and places to see, families can spend many days exploring the neighborhoods.

Get ready to make a splash. Several pools in the Hartford area offer open swim times and lessons to refresh you on a hot day or help you think sunny thoughts on a cold day. Some require town residency while others are open to nonresidents. It’s a great way to get the family some exercise even when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Plus, swimming is a lifelong skill that enhances safety and increases opportunities for fun. For more enrichment and after school classes, check out our Classes and Activities Guide.

Carl Schurz Park on Manhattan's Upper East Side is a jewel of an urban green space. Nestled between East End Avenue and the East River, the 15-acre waterfront park spans six city blocks. While it can't match the Upper East Side's other big green space, Central Park, in size, Carl Schurz Park is charming in its own right with lovely arched bridges, wide paved waterfront walkways, flower-filled gardens, lush landscaping, towering old shade-producing trees, an iconic statue, a perpetually busy playground, and equally packed events calendar.

It's not surprising Carl Schurz has so much in common with Central Park: It was masterminded in 1902 by none other than Calvert Vaux (half of the duo that created Central Park and Prospect Park). Carl Schurz also has one attraction no other NYC park will ever have: The historic Gracie Mansion, which is home to New York City's mayor.

Here are 10 fun things to do in this jewel of a green space no matter the season.

Kids march to the beat of their own drums, so why not help them keep their rhythm with some music classes? Some studies have shown that early music education helps children develop academic, physical, and social skills, and it also gives them an introduction to arts and culture. We have put together a list of music classes for kids in the Philadelphia area, but be sure to visit their websites for updated schedules. Visit our Classes Directory to keep up on the latest additions.

We’ve rounded up some of the best mommy-and-me classes on Long Island, ideal if you want to to stay fit or learn a new craft. You and your baby will have fun, meet other moms and tots, and, most importantly, spend precious time together. 

From Zumba to yoga, cooking and art, there are plenty of ways to nurture your baby’s mind, body, and creative spirit. Not to mention your own. Of course, classes are open to dads, grandparents, and other caregivers. Be sure to check class websites for times, costs, and registration details.

Fireworks just aren't for everyone. For little kids especially, the loud noises and flashing lights in the sky can be overwhelming and a little scary. If that's the case in your family, the Fourth of July might be a bit of a challenge in New York City.

But no worries: You don't have to line up midday to stand in a crush of strangers and then wait for nightfall to watch the sky explode in order to enjoy this holiday in NYC. We've got a cool dozen ideas to help you navigate the birth of our nation, gunpowder-free!

Of course, you can also always turn to our July GoList, our compendium of 100 Free Things to do with NYC Kids This Summer, and our bulging calendar for more ideas. Happy 4th!

If you and your children adore trampolines and bounce houses, this family-friendly 5k will be right up your alley: Get "pumped up" to grab your running shoes and your most breathable clothing, because the Insane Inflatable 5K is coming your way.

Touring the country this summer and fall—including stops in Chicago, the Hudson Valley, the Poconos, and Houston—this unique fun-run features giant inflatables which form an enormous obstacle course. Inflatable fun that parents and kids can enjoy together? Count us in! 

If science and technology are to continue to develop, the world would seem to need innovative minds that keep dreaming and creating. STEM and STEAM programs emphasize science, technology, engineering, art, and math to develop the brains of the future, our Long Island kids.

More schools, camps, and museums across Long Island are offering classes and workshops with a focus on STEM education. Check out some of our favorite programs below. You can also find free coding for kids websites and apps.

Little engineers, rejoice.