As if a ferry ride itself isn’t enough excitement for your little ones, there’s plenty more to explore on Shelter Island. This charming destination on Long Island's East End is known for its family-friendly activities, quiet beaches, spectacular views, and a host of wildlife. Marvel at the calm waters of the Shelter Island Sound and Peconic Bay as you approach this idyllic retreat.

Our Hamptons and North Fork Guide is packed with family-friendly activities on Shelter Island and all of the East End of Long Island, including 50 ideas of what to do and where. 

Whether you're visiting NYC or live here year-round, going to a Broadway show is a special family experience. Kids are sure to remember it vividly, and chances are parents won't soon forget the credit card bill. That's why it's important to pick a production wisely, especially when bringing young children to their first Broadway performance.

While Disney juggernauts The Lion King and Aladdin are popular options, there are other kid-friendly choices that aren't as obvious. We've rounded up our top Broadway shows for families and organized them by age appropriateness. Once you've picked a Broadway show, all that's left to do is book tickets. We've got you covered there, too, with our tips to save on Broadway tickets.

If you're looking for more options, browse our Family Activity Calendar for family shows beyond Broadway, and bookmark our Guide to Children's Theater for reviews and recommendations.

Got a child who's dying to try skateboarding? Or maybe they're looking for a fresh spot to practice their skills? Well, New Jersey has lots of fantastic skate parks for kids featuring some unique and thrilling obstacles to try for all skill levels.

Whether your child loves rails and street set-ups or prefers the thrill of bowl skating, we've found the best New Jersey skate parks for kids. Some even allow bikes and in-line skating, and the majority are absolutely free to use. 

Have an adventure-seeking kid? Check out our story on the best places to zip line in NJ and more in our Outdoor Activities Guide for New Jersey Kids. 

Do you have a daredevil in the family, or perhaps a few? Adventure courses are open for the season, providing an opportunity for the ultimate outdoor adventure, freely soaring through the forest canopy. The Philadelphia region abounds with towering zip lines and challenging ropes courses for explorers of all ages.   

We’ve rounded up the ultimate zip lines and ropes courses in or near Philadelphia and some additional options in New Jersey, Delaware, and the Pocono Mountains.

So get outside and make unforgettable summer memories with your family. Looking for more seasonal fun before summer ends? Check out our End of Summer Bucket List or our Summer Activity Guide.

The United States Military Academy is a jewel in the Hudson Valley. The country's oldest continuously occupied Army post, its history precedes the academy that now calls the land home. Recognized by then-General George Washington as a strategic stronghold, it played a key role in America's defense during the Revolutionary War and has remained important ever since. Today, West Point serves as a jumping-off point for the next generation of Army leaders, who endure a 47-month educational journey that prepares them in the classroom, on the battlefield, and in feats of physical and military fitness.

Whether you visit the United States Military Academy for one day—or are lucky enough to send your son or daughter to this prestigious institution and make repeat visits—you're in for a treat. Its strategic location perched on the west bank of the Hudson River is one of the most beautiful vistas in the region. Here are our tips for visiting West Point with kids, plus the top things to do near the United States Military Academy. You'll find more ideas for day trip destinations in our Guide to Local Day Trips and Getaways in the Hudson Valley.

Orange County knows how to level up the fun for kids, and the OC splash pads are no exception. Sure, Castaway Cove at the HoJo might get all the splash pad glory, but drive ten minutes away and there are free splash pads all over. From interactive water features to shaded seating for parents, these splash pads are perfect for beating the heat while having a blast. Here are the best splash pads in Orange County worth checking out this summer. 

Don't miss out on the best things to do with Orange County kids before they grow up, and discover the best beaches in Los Angeles & Orange County. For more water play, check out our Guide to the Coolest Pools and Splash Pads for LA Families. 

Searching for the best gifts for new moms that won't just become cute clutter? From practical gifts for new mothers (pass the peri bottle!) to pampered purchases (looking at you, fancy lounge wear) to the help she really needs (A nap! A meal! A shower without an audience!), we’ve got you covered. Whether it's her first or her fourth, there's lots of ways to help make those blurry baby days a bit easier.

Our New Mom Gift Guide is packed with thoughtful gifts new moms really want, ideas for how to show up and help without overstaying, and ways to make new parents feel seen and supported.

One of the best things you can send new moms? Mommy Poppins, of course! Ping the new mom in your life with her local Mommy Poppins site, with a special shout-out to our Parenting Guide where she’ll find our Baby Registry Must-Haves, along with our list of stuff she absolutely does not need in our Deinfluencing Your Baby Registry run-down.

New York City is an amazing destination to visit with kids—there's so much to see and do. You and your family can have a fantastic trip that feels smooth and fun with a few simple tricks we're serving up here. From tips on the best time to visit NYC's top attractions to how to find shorter lines, and discover the coolest secret spots that most tourists never see, keep reading.

Be sure to bookmark our NYC Visitors Guide for all our parent-tested tips on exploring the Big Apple with kids, including our curated three-day itinerary for visiting from a local mom.