It’s true that the Staten Island Zoo isn’t the most extravagant and is the Bronx Zoo’s smaller cousin, but its still has a whole lot to offer and is a great place for kids to really hang out with animals.

In 2007, a newly renovated Reptile Wing opened with an extensive collection of reptiles and amphibians, and a “Fear Zone” that teaches visitors the truth, and talks about the myths behind venomous creatures. It really is a lot of fun and teaches kids respect for these animals, instead of fear.

Staten Island, though perhaps infamously known for the dump (which is currently being turned into a mega-park), is actually the “greenest borough.” Since Central Park is a bit of trek for locals, they can be found riding bikes, feeding the ducks and rowing boats in one of many of the island’s green playgrounds. Here’s a look at some that are definitely worth the free ferry ride over.

This historic theater, once the most lively and gorgeous on Staten Island, was renovated and reopened within the last few years, and is bringing the theatrical heyday back to the island.

The vaudeville house first opened in 1929, with a Wurlizter organ, one of the largest cantilevered balconies ever built, velvet seats, gilded balconies and grand staircases. Today, the theater emits that same old movie house feeling and really has the power to take you back to Olde New York.

Recently, fellow Mommy and Long Island Native Jill DeMarco spent some time checking out some of the coolest ways to beat the heat - museums, and here she's rounded up some of the funnest and most unique ones to visit with kids. Thanks, Jill for sharing this with us!

Did you know that there are over 200 museums on Long Island...just the Island! Once you have checked out the basics on Museum Row, which other museums are really worth checking out with kids? Some of the unique museums we have out here are actually better to visit with kids because they are smaller and less intimidating; yet your kids still see and learn about cool new stuff they might otherwise have missed. We've rounded up a few of the best off the beaten path museums that you may not have heard of:  

Museum Row in Garden City is a one stop shopping for some of Long Island’s finest museums. This is where you will find the Island’s top 3 museums that are terrific for children. It is a great place for families to go when looking for some educational discovery time or just plain old fashioned fun.

This post was written for us by Jill DeMarco.

I have to get out of the house! I know it is already officially Spring, but not every day is park weather. So where is a bored mom to go? The library!   I always forget how great the library is and how a good one can keep us all entertained for hours...oh and did I mention it’s FREE? Almost all our local LI libraries with a children’s department have programs geared towards kids of all ages and most usually have a play and reading area, toys and many have computers for our budding electronic generation. But, a few libraries have special amenities that make them even more enjoyable and are worth a visit: