Los Angeles kids grow up swimming at some of the country's most iconic beaches, not to mention an array of flat-out awesome public swimming pools. But wait—there's more! Did you know that there are some wonderful swimming lakes near Los Angeles? And if you're willing to drive a little farther, lake options get even more plentiful. Whether you want to take a dip in a secluded swimming hole or join the masses at a lavish lake resort, here are some of the best spots to take a swim out in nature.

For more places to go swimming in Los Angeles, check out our Guide To Pools and Splash Pads in Los Angeles. Or keep it natural at one of these Surf-Free Beaches Where Toddlers Can Swim!

Consider a summer day trip from Atlanta to keep the kids entertained, busy, and cool beyond the city's brutal summer heat. These Atlanta summer day trips are budget-friendly options, saving on the cost of overnight accommodations, yet allow families to explore the surrounding areas. Luckily, Atlanta is centrally located between lots of fun, easy-to-visit destinations all within a two-hour drive or less from downtown!

We've rounded up the best FREE summer activities in Orlando to help take the stress—and expense—out of keeping the kids entertained while school’s out. From splash pads and playgrounds to free shows and attractions, there's something for every family to enjoy. See how many of these no-cost adventures you can check off your summer bucket list!

Looking for a big-on-fun, easy-on-the-wallet Philly weekend itinerary for families? We've got you covered.

Whether you're in it for the sports and snacks, or the history and art, there's something for everyone in your crew to enjoy the City of Brotherly Love while maximizing funds.

While you're at it, check out our budget weekend getaway ideas for outside the city. We've also got a whole guide full of free fun for kids in Philadelphia.

Check out our 3-day family itinerary for visiting Boston on a budget in 2025!

If you're feeling nostalgic for a summer adventure filled with cotton candy and Ferris wheel rides, it might be time for some family-friendly fun at one of these amusement parks near NYC. There's no shortage of amusement parks and water parks for New York City-based thrill-seekers, but if you don't have a car, some amusement parks can seem out of reach. Fear not, we’ve rounded up the best amusement parks near NYC that are easily accessible via public transportation. Remember the sunscreen and forget the parking (and rental car) headaches with these picks.

From the thrilling roller coasters of Six Flags in New Jersey, to the mega theme park fun of Legoland New York in the Hudson Valley, we've found a selection of great amusement parks no matter your interest or your kids' ages. Find more thrill-seeking fun in our Guide to Amusement Parks and Water Parks Near NYC.

Ready to kick off summer? Here is our ultimate summer bucket list of 100 (mostly) FREE ways you can pack more play into your day with indoor and outdoor games and activities. Our list includes fun crafts, games, experiments, and more. And these summer bucket list ideas aren't just for kids—they're fun and engaging activities for the whole family. After all, grown-ups need time to play, too!

We've also got you covered for those summer days when you want to get out and explore your town. Check out your local Summer Activities Guide for things to do in your city with kids this summer. 

Need even more ideas for summertime fun? Bookmark our Ultimate Kids Summer Vacation Guide! It's full of everything from water games for kids to backyard science experiments for messy outdoor fun.

Can't remember the lyrics to your favorite kids campfire songs? We've got you covered.

There's no better way to end a day in the woods filled with hiking games and camping games than sitting around a fire and singing some campfire songs. We've rounded up the most fun, catchy songs to sing along to during your next camping trip, from classic campfire songs to funny campfire songs to campfire songs for preschoolers that are easy to sign along and learn. Some of the videos even have the campfire song lyrics in them. So grab the marshmallows, stoke the campfire, warm up your singing voice, and get ready to sing these 21 campfire songs with kids.

Be sure to check out our Camping Travel Guide for Families for more camping tips and fun.