The fun is as wet as it gets at these nearby sprinkler parks.

Free and fabulous splash pads in Los Angeles can be found at many parks and playgrounds across the city— and some of them are open year-round. Entire playgrounds (plus a few swimming pools and wading pools) are dedicated to ways to keep it cool, with plenty of fountains, geysers, pumps, and water sprayers. Kids adore these Los Angeles splash parks and "spraygrounds:, and parents love that they're a great way to beat the heat without a drive to a favorite beach (not to mention, the car won't get all sandy!).

Looking for more summer fun? Check out our list of the best swimming lakes in Los Angeles, our ultimate playgrounds guide, and our Ultimate Mommy Poppins summer guide!

Making a quick trip to the nearest sprinkler or splash pad around Philly is a great way to cool kids off on a hot day! The water playgrounds and splash pads listed below are some of our favorite local splash parks to enjoy free water play and make the most of summer.

Headed to the shore this summer for some ocean play? Check out these 100 Things To Do With Kids at the Jersey Shore, and don't forget to visit our Summer Activity Guide for more summer fun!

CAMP Dallas invites you to play in a whole new way

If you’ve been to CAMP Dallas, you know all about the magic behind the door. Just in time for summer break, the interactive toy store is bringing a whimsical new adventure to DFW, and it’s one you don’t want to miss.

If you want to explore somewhere off the beaten path with your kids, there are some truly unique places to visit in the US. Whether they boast one-of-a-kind accommodations like themed hotel suites or tree houses, unique natural features, or quirky activities, these awesome cities, national parks, and other places across the country offer loads of family fun.

Here are 14 unique family vacations in the USA for 2025. Our Family Travel Guide has even more ideas for under-the-radar travel destinations, including our list of the best family vacation spots in the US that are off the beaten path. Don't forget to take lots of pictures!

There's nothing better than lazy, relaxing summer days at the beaches of the Jersey Shore. Of course, at some point, the kids are going to want to get up and do something, right?

If you're looking for ways to keep the kids entertained during a vacation at the Shore this summer, this list of 100 family-friendly activities all up and down the New Jersey coast should hit the spot. We've even included lots of FREE things to do.

For more fun down the shore, check out our Jersey Shore Guide, which includes information on amusement parks and water parks, top beaches, best boardwalks, and more. And for even more ideas, see our itinerary for 3 days on the Jersey Shore with Kids.

The Lawrence Hall of Science is a hands-on science museum where kids can explore everything from engineering challenges to live animal encounters—all with a sweeping view of the San Francisco Bay. Set atop the Berkeley Hills, this museum is easily a hidden gem in the East Bay.  

I first checked out The Lawrence on a whim with my kids, and now this museum is one of our go-to spots when we want a mix of learning and play, with a bonus view of the bay. Whether your kid is into dinosaurs, water play, building things, or meeting live animals, there is something to spark their imagination. ​This guide to The Lawrence offers insider tips, must-see exhibits, and answers to frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your family trip.

For more fun in the East Bay, explore the best things to do in Oakland with kids and celebrate birthday parties at these favorite spots in the East Bay. 

Creating a backyard kids' obstacle course can provide infinite hours of fun and fitness for children who love a good challenge and have boundless energy. Whether they’re aspiring Ninja Warriors or simply looking for a creative way to play, a DIY obstacle course is the perfect way to keep kids active and entertained outdoors.

From balance beams and rope swings to portable obstacle course options, here are some fun backyard obstacle course ideas for Ninja Warrior kids. Check out our Guide to Outdoor Activities for Kids for more fresh-air kids' fitness ideas, from classic playground and backyard games to fun scavenger hunt ideas.