The New York Hall of Science is one of Queens' most unique, kid-friendly museums, and as a mom to a teen, tween, and toddler, it's a relief to have a space that caters to all of them. For families looking for an intentional, captivating way to introduce children to STEM-focused concepts and activities, a visit to NYSCI is a must-do. I've got tons of tips for the best things to do and see while you're at one of our favorite local science museums in NYC.

Following devastating flooding from Hurricane Ida, NYSCI underwent extensive renovations and restoration, but it's fully open and functional again leading to rejoicing from families, students, teachers, and, indeed, science-loving New Yorkers of all ages.

Find more ways to get scientific with kids in our Guide to Science Experiments and STEM Activities for Kids and our NYC Museum Guide, which includes our top picks for space museums nearby plus more cool culture spots for families to visit no matter their interests.

These thrift stores in NYC are the perfect antidote to teens changing style whims. Seasoned parents can tell you that shopping for kids becomes a lot harder as they age. Teens are still trying to find their own unique style, so there's no need to spend a fortune on trendy items they will outgrow or that go out of style quickly. Kicks, rocker tees, jeans, funky bags, and accessories are all in high demand and easily found in multiple at vintage stores and thrift shops in NYC. Teens have a blast browsing racks hunting for that perfect T-shirt or pair of jeans.

NYC abounds with vintage and thrift shops. We've rounded up a selection of thrift stores in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island, and the Bronx that offer a large and varied selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories for teens. Have some cash on hand and get ready for a vintage shopping spree. Find more age-appropriate activities and destinations in our NYC Tween and Teen Guide.

We found the best tot lots and toddler playgrounds in Philly where the little ones can let off their steam.

Like a lot of things in those early years, going to a playground with a toddler can feel treacherous. Everything is a little too big so you find yourself helicoptering your kid's every move. That's why tot lots are perfect for the smallest kiddos. With fun interactive areas, smaller steps and slides, and baby swings, these pint-sized playgrounds mean kids can have a little more independence while they play (and so can you!). If you’re looking for fun, safe playgrounds ideal for younger kids, we've got a list of some great tot lots in the Philadelphia area.

For more on Philly's best outdoor play spaces, visit our Guide to Playgrounds and Parks in Philadelphia. Need rainy day activities? Look no further than our favorite indoor play spaces and playgrounds.

Though Columbia, SC may not get the publicity of neighboring cities like Charleston and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina's capital city has plenty for families to love. Located in the center of the state, "Soda City" boasts top-notch museums, attractions for animal lovers, delicious restaurants, and beautiful hotels. It's a somewhat small city with wide streets, a walkable downtown area, and a youthful vibe (it's home to the University of South Carolina). Columbia, SC is also full of the southern charm and hospitality you'd expect from a city in the South. In fact, I'm not sure I've ever encountered such polite folks!

Here are our 25 favorite things to do in Columbia, SC with kids, including great family-friendly restaurants and hotels in Columbia, SC. Check out our Southern States Vacation Guide for more places to visit in the sunny South.

Located on Fan Pier in the Seaport District, the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) is one of the top destinations for families in Boston. Inside, kids will find amazing displays of modern art. The works at the ICA span different media, with painting, sculpture, and so much more. Kids and parents will be floored at the ways these artists express themselves. The museum's striking main building is situated in one of Boston's most vibrant neighborhoods: the Seaport. Make visiting the ICA part of a day out in Boston, or spend the whole day at the museum!

Visitors never lack for things to do in NYC, but when is the last time you enjoyed a staycation and checked some of the city's must-dos off your list? With spring break on the horizon, you might be planning a visit to one of these family-friendly all-inclusive resorts, but if a big vacation is not in the cards, consider the glory of a staycation and let New York City provide a week's worth of entertainment.

We've pulled together this gold mine of activities for families looking to keep busy during spring break—or anytime—in the Big Apple. From exhibitions and excursions to our favorite zoos, to everyday fun in our beautiful parks and playgrounds, we've found 53 great things to do in NYC during a staycation. Find more top picks for the best NYC has to offer on our list of NYC's top attractions, plus our curated three-day itinerary for exploring our own backyard.

Stepping Stones Museum may just be the best hidden gem for kids in Fairfield County. The museum is a kid’s dream, offering a place to play, run, imagine, and have loads of fun. Completely kid-centric, Stepping Stones offers hands-on entertainment, such as riding on a school bus, digging for dinosaur fossils, and reporting the weather.

Families can enjoy weekly story reading, art, music, and fitness. Additionally, seasonal events for both kids and adults are offered. An award-winning museum, S Get ready for a solid outing for kids ranging from pre-crawlers to 10-year-olds at Norwalk's Stepping Stones Museum.

Take kids to Florida state parks near Orlando for outdoor fun and picturesque trips. Whether you're an Orlando resident looking for a day trip or pastoral staycation, or a tourist who wants to go beyond the theme parks, these Central Florida state parks are wonderful resources to get closer to Mother Nature. These gorgeous spots offer outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, and more!

Most of these Florida state parks are open year round, but always check with individual sites and park rangers as areas of the park may be closed due to environmental factors, maintenance, etc.