23 Things to Do With Chicago Kids Before School Starts

Two little Chicagoans, fresh from the splash pad at 31st Street Harbor, contemplate going to the beach.

If seeing school supply lists is sending you and your kids into a panic over the impending end of summer, stay calm, and summer on! We've done the research (not a bad gig, honestly), and rounded up the ultimate Chicago summer bucket List, complete with all the outdoor movies, festivals, and FREE summer activities for families in Chicago that you'll want to fit in before school starts up again.

16 Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Atlanta with Perks for Kids

Explore Midtown in style while staying at the Loews Atlanta Hotel.

We’ve rounded up family-friendly hotels in Atlanta guaranteed to be a hit with kids, whether you’re on vacation, a staycation, or hosting out-of-town guests. When you travel with kids, extra amenities and perks to ward off the occasional vacation meltdown are crucial. 

From downtown to Stone Mountain, and everywhere in between, these Atlanta hotels put you near the most popular family-friendly spots. And since many families don’t want to kennel pets, we’ve included a few spots to bring your furbabies, too.

Quirky, Cool Roadside Attractions Near Orlando for Kids

Visit Gatorland's play area during a visit to this beloved Florida roadside attraction. Photo Charlotte B

Roadside attractions are a great way to break up a long drive, enjoy oddball entertainment, and see something new. Whether you family is driving to Orlando on a family vacation or already live in the area and want to do something off the beaten path, we've found fun roadside attractions in Orlando for kids and families. 

Best Philly Area Campgrounds With Extra Entertainment for Kids

Located next to Dutch Wonderland, this campground is a great “first camping” experience for young kids. Photo courtesy of Dutch Wonderland

Camping with kids is fun, but sometimes it can be hard to keep them entertained. These campgrounds offer a little something extra for a fantastic family adventure that is sure to keep the kids happy. Whether you want to visit amusement parks or enjoy extra campground amenities like splash pads and water slides, these destinations will make your camping trip even more special.

For more great places to travel with kids, check out our Family Travel Guide.

12 Great Birthday Party Entertainers Near Washington, DC

Elsa and Anna are just two of the many characters that can visit your birthday child through Princess Parties of DC. Photo courtesy of Princess Parties of DC

Planning a child's birthday party can be overwhelming—especially if you're hosting it at home. You've got to set up, plan the activities, shop for supplies, and clean up once the party is over.

But it doesn't have to be this hard. The Washington, DC area is full of birthday party entertainers who will come to your home and take care of it all—the setup, supplies, entertainment, and cleanup. That means all you'll have to do is take pictures and enjoy yourself.

Here are 12 birthday party entertainers near DC that will suit kids with a wide range of interests, from gamers to glam girls to budding scientists. Our Kids' Birthday Party Guide for DC has even more ways to plan the perfect party, from the top kids' birthday party places near DC to 100 popular kids' birthday party themes. Party on!

This New Long Island Play Cafe Transports Guests to Paris

Madeline’s Play Cafe in Glen Cove is Parisian-themed play cafe that kids and parents will enjoy.

Madeline’s Play Cafe in Glen Cove, a recently-opened Parisian-themed cafe and indoor play space in Nassau County, offers kids enchanting recreation opportunities. The space includes a carousel, rock wall, ball pit, and slides.

The woman-owned play cafe is designed for interactive fun and learning the whole family can share. I've found that this charming play cafe near me is a memorable way to spend an afternoon with the kids. 

Read on for everything you need to know about a visit to Madeline’s Play Cafe and find more top indoor play spaces in Nassau County and indoor fun spots in Suffolk County

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