Check out the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County's Holiday Light Show and Enchanted Forest before it closes on Sunday. Photo courtesy of the Girl Scouts of Suffolk County

The Nutcracker, Dinosaurs, and More Things To Do on Long Island this Weekend

Fifth Street in Ronkonkoma is aglow with Christmas lights during the holidays.

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LuminoCity returns to Long Island with another stunning installation at Eisenhower Park. Photo courtesy of LuminoCity

20 Must-Do Christmas Events and Holiday Activities on Long Island in 2025

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Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Long Island Kids

See how the village of Port Jefferson magically turns back time to the Dicken's Era. Photo courtesy of the festival's Facebook page

25 Free Holiday and Christmas Events on Long Island for Kids in 2025

LuminoCity returns to Long Island's Eisenhower Park this Christmas season. Photo courtesy LuminoCity

Best Holiday Lights Drive-Thrus and Christmas Light Shows on Long Island 2025

From holiday tales to dreidel making, the Sands Point Preserve boasts an afternoon full of family fun. Photo courtesy of Sands Point Preserve

20 Best Things To Do on Long Island with Kids December 2025, from Mommy Poppins Editors

Have brunch with Santa at the Long Island Aquarium this holiday season. Photo by Jennifer Voit

Breakfast with Santa on Long Island in 2025

Meet Santa aboard The Polar Express chugging along the Morristown and Erie lines. Photo courtesy of the Morristown and Erie Railway

Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains near NYC in 2025

Long Island's Most Popular Christmas Events to Book Now Before They Sell Out in 2025

The Ausable Chasm has been described as the Grand Canyon of the Adirondacks and it's one of our top 100 things to do in New York State with kids. Photo by Anna Fader

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Kids can hop on tricycles and ride around the indoor track at L.I. Salty Kids Cove.

21 Best Kids' Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in Suffolk County

Xplore Family Fun Center's birthday parties include pizza, drinks, and arcade cards. Photo by the author

Top Birthday Party Places on Long Island for Kids

Get ready for back to school with all the right supplies, classes, and tips.

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Summer camp is a great way for kids to make new friends and learn new skills

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Speed down the slides at Bellmore's Planet Play.

Top Indoor Playgrounds and Play Spaces in Nassau County

Bounce! in Syosset is a trampoline adventure destination that includes a toddler playground for younger kids. Photo by Jennifer Voit

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Kids eat free at participating IHOPs beginning at 4pm each afternoon. Photo courtesy of IHOP

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Photo of Liddle Bites play space in Long Beach by Lisa Fogarty for Mommy Poppins

GUIDE

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Jones Beach Energy and Nature Center's interactive exhibits are free. Photo by Gina Massaro

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The Vanderbilt has a planetarium, an expansive mansion, and a museum, making it a great place to explore on a rainy day. Photo by Kristen Markel

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Find free fun for Long Island kids at the free play space at the Broadway Mall. Photo courtesy the mall

GUIDE

Guide to Free Things To Do with Long Island Kids

Families gather at Northport Park as the sun sets on the scenic Northport Harbor. Photo by the author

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A day at Sunken Meadow State Park can feature playground games, a walk on the beach, and more. Photo by Kimberly Chacon

Best Playgrounds on Long Island for Kids

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Celebrate with a themed birthday at Sippy Cups. Photo by the author

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Winding paths, ponds, and streams line the lush grounds of Clark Botanic Gardens.

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Encourage an introduction to STEM education at the Long Island Children's Museum. Photo courtesy of LICM

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Long Island is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the eastern seaboard. Photo courtesy of Discover Long Island

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Host an affordable birthday party at Whimsical Vine Party Hall. Photo by Chofit the Man to Call via Pexels

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Babies 2 and younger can pet the goats, alpacas, and ponies for free at Fink’s Country Farm.

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Enjoy the engaging exhibits at the Long Island Children's Museum. Photo courtesy of LICM

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Keep the kids busy at Applebee's with games on a tableside tablet. Photo by Anne Caminiti - Momee Friends of Long Island www.momeefriendsli.com

Long Island Restaurants with Fun Entertainment for Kids

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Grab the brass ring and get a free ride at Greenport's carousel. Photo by Jaime Sumersille

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Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

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Support Atlanta! Toy and Book Stores Offering Curbside Pick-up & Local Delivery

Let Kazoo bring the fun to you with toys and games delivered once or twice a week while schools are suspended. Photo courtesy of Kazoo Toys

5/4/20 - By Dana Shemesh

During these "life on pause" times, families have been able to do some pretty awesome things, like tackle cool science experiments at home, take virtual tours of famous sites around the world, and check off bucket list movies for family movie night. But sometimes we need a little something new, like a book or toy, to bring a burst of joy. Coming to the rescue are local Atlanta toy and book stores, which are offering unique toys, books, and gifts—some of them not offered by the big box chain stores. These handpicked gems offer curbside pickup and delivery, and some will even spend the time to beautifully wrap special and unique gifts. The special child in your life gets a toy to treasure, and you can feel good about supporting local, family-owned businesses.

For more ideas on what to do with your children to keep them engaged, check out our Stay-at-Home Guide with 100s of activities and resources for families on pause.