These days, there are almost countless ways to celebrate your child's birthday. But for kids who love animals, creating a party centered around their favorite furry friend or curious creature will make their day extra special.

Animal birthday bashes are both fun and educational. Check out all the ways you can celebrate your kid's animal interests at these fun party venues.

Kids love to be part of something special, especially when it's created just for them. Thanks to local sports teams, children can become card-carrying members of exclusive kids' clubs designed to enhance the experience of attending local professional and collegiate athletic events, from basketball to hockey to everything in between. These clubs combine kids' love of sports with the excitement of belonging to a group all their own, so you've got a win-win!

For active kids who love sports, there's nothing quite like incorporating a favorite activity into a birthday celebration. Parties focused on organized sports not only cut down on the mayhem, they also give kids a healthy way to get their energy out.

Many venues that host sports parties also take care of all the details - from set up to clean up and everything in between - so that mom and dad can enjoy the fun, too. 

Read on for 10 cool places where it's okay for kids to kick, punch, swing, cheer, and party on!

Did you know that over 300 species of our fine-feathered friends are observed in the Newburyport area each year?

It turns out this place really is for the birds.

In fact, serious birders from all over flock to this northeast section of the state in the hopes of getting a glimpse of their favorite winged animal. But birding is a nice, leisurely family activity, too – in all seasons. Check out the following resources, grab a pair of binoculars, and head out into the great outdoors to see how many cute little birdies your family can spot.