Navigating the logistics of an Orlando theme park trip is daunting for any parent. But for parents of children on the autism spectrum, like my son, or with another learning challenge or disability, the task may even seem impossible. I wondered how I could make sure he enjoys himself and gets to see what wants? How would he endure long waits for rides, the inevitable crowds, and noise—none of which he handles very well?

Thankfully, the big theme parks in Orlando offer a service for families like mine that helps minimize stress and maximize the kids' fun: the guest assistance pass.

Observation decks seem to be multiplying in NYC, and soon New Yorkers and visitors alike will have a brand new, sky-high observation deck to take in the city views. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt officially opens to visitors on Thursday, October 21, but we got a sneak peek at this four-floor, art-and-entertainment space that aims to transform the observation deck experience.

Read on for our review of this kaleidoscope in the sky, which offers stunning views inside and out, including a unique perspective on its Midtown competitors at the Empire State Building, Edge, and Top of the Rock.

When planning a family day trip this fall, vineyards and wineries may not be the first destinations that come to mind. Believe it or not, New Jersey is home to relaxing and scenic vineyards that welcome kids and even pets. These vineyards offer outdoor fun that includes food truck events, music, farm activities, spacious fields, and of course, the Garden State’s homegrown wines.

Not all local vineyards and wineries permit children on the premises, but raise your glass to those that do! Be sure to check the policies on children in the tasting areas before you visit.

Prospect Park spans more than 500 acres, providing plenty of space for varied adventures within its woods, green lawns, winding paths, and brooks and ponds. But did you also know this green space is also home to seven playgrounds? From big-kid swings to water features and toddler-sized slides, there’s something for every kid (and parent) in Prospect Park's playgrounds.

While you can—and should—head to all of these playgrounds at some point, if you're short on time, we've tested them out to present this parent-and-kid approved ranking of all seven playgrounds, from those that are destination-worthy to picks perfect for impromptu playtime. Find more picks for top play spots in our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds in NYC.

Native daughter Ruth Bader Ginsburg gets her due in a brand new exhibition at the New-York Historical Society. Based on the best-selling book and Tumblr of the same name, Notorious RBG: The Life and Times of Ruth Bader Ginsburg brings the Brooklyn-born Supreme Court justice's story full-circle.

Whether your kids have a hunger for history, an interest in the law, or a feminist streak, the exhibition, which made our list of must-see museum exhibits this fall, is worth a visit.

As a huge theater lover, finally being able to share live theater with my three-year-old is so exciting. Theater can bring stories to life like no other medium can. Kids’ theater can make a huge impact on our children and their imaginations; at the very least, it’s a really fun-filled family day. While shows have been dark for well over a year, the lights are coming back up and performers are eagerly waiting to tell their stories, make your kids’ day, and even make a theater lover out of them. These are some great shows happening in Los Angeles this fall that will delight kids as young as 3 years old.

For more fall fun, including loads of Halloween events and activities, check out our Los Angeles Fall Fun Guide.

Halloween is just around the corner and if your kids are like mine, they're already planning how to build an epic stash of sweets and spinning spine-tingling spooky tales. My younger son is all ears when it comes to scary stuff, whether it's the Jersey Devil or the Legend of Sleepy Hollow. So, this year, we decided to try something new: a walking ghost tour. There are several well-known ghost tours near New Jersey, offered both seasonally and year-round where amateur paranormal investigators can embark on an after-dark expedition.

Before buying tickets, though, I wanted to make sure my son was really ready for a more grown-up outing. After all, there's no getting around the serious topics we'd encounter. So I grilled him: Would hearing ghost stories frighten him, or would he find them entertaining? Did he mind a late night and a walk in the dark? Would he have the patience to be on his feet for more than an hour? After a bunch of enthusiastic responses, we booked our tickets and headed out. Read on for details on our night and a handful of spooky spots where you can embark on your own Garden State ghost tour, and find more seasonal happenings in our Guide to Halloween Activities in New Jersey.

Long Island has finally joined the Dallas-based Topgolf family with a location in Holtsville. Topgolf, a tech-driven place with 102 climate-controlled bays, boasts a seasonal chef-driven menu, drinks, live music, and year-round programming in a three-story outdoor space. Kids can tee off for a digitized round of golf, and while a hole-in-one isn't guaranteed a visit full of excitement is!

Long Island has plenty more sports-centric fun zones for your competitive crew. Or try a round of mini golf instead!