Could We BE More Excited for The Friends Experience in NYC?

Cheers to the The Friends Experience: The One in New York City.

Fans of Friends—both fanatic and fair-weathered—can flock to an immersive, interactive pop-up to see sets, costumes, and memorabilia from the '90s sitcom that launched "The Rachel." Since viewers can now watch Monica, Chandler, Ross, Joey, Rachel, and Phoebe nightly in reruns or through streaming services, the show has found a younger fan base. For both original fans and new ones, The Friends Experience: The One in New York City does not disappoint.

We checked out the two-floor experience—the flagship location and largest of several related Friends' experiences that have popped up nationwide—to see if it's worth visiting and just how kid-friendly the throwback attraction is. Find more family-friendly local outings in our roundup of 25 indoor places to play to beat summer's heat.

Free Shakespeare Returns To Griffith Park in Los Angeles

And all the men and women (and boys and girls) merely players...

It’s time to brush up your Shakespeare! Shakespeare is set free in Griffith Park this summer once again, as the Independent Shakespeare Company’s production of The Tempest is now playing. Think Shakespeare is too high falutin for your wee one? Fear not! ISCLA goes back to Shakespeare’s roots as entertainment for the common folk, which translates to lots of slapstick humor and music. While the show is still fabulous and free, many things have changed for this summer’s production. Read on for a quick overview of the show and what’s new (for brevity is the soul of wit).

Things To Do in Wrigleyville with Kids

Calling all Chicago Cubs fans! Photo courtesy of Gallagher Way

Wrigleyville is the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs. Located just west of Lake Michigan in the center of Lakeview, Wrigleyville is a neighborhood all its own. Since its post-World Series makeover in 2016, Wrigley Field and Wrigleyville have undergone a massive facelift. 

If you’re planning on taking the kids to a game or just to walk around the neighborhood, we’ve rounded up everything you need to know about exploring Wrigleyville with kids. From where to stay and what to eat, this guide has the details to family fun in Wrigleyville. 

Mommy and Me Baby and Toddler Classes near Fairfield, Connecticut

Kids learn through hands-on exploration in Tinkergarten. Photo courtesy of Tinkergarten

A great way to boost babies' motor and social skills while making some new friends yourself is by enrolling in various baby classes. From stroller hikes to mud pie making, Fairfield County offers no shortage of Mommy and Me classes. Pack up the diaper bag, grab a latte, and sign up for a session or two: These mommy and me classes are designed for new Fairfield County moms (and dads, and other caregivers, too) with their babies and toddlers.

Looking for more to do in Fairfield County? Explore our Classes and Activites Guide for Connecticut Kids

Best Sports Classes for Kids in Atlanta

Sports classes for kids teach perseverance, skill, and teamwork.

Introducing kids to sports classes at an early age has loads of benefits —young children (toddlers, preschoolers) can develop social skills, problem-solving techniques, and self-esteem, not to mention burn off all that youthful energy. We've gathered great sports classes for kids in Atlanta and surrounding suburbia that will not only build skill but also add joy. These kids sports classes are more introductory—less about the scoreboard and more fun. 

To find even more ideas about kids classes and programs, check out our Guide to Best Kids Classes and Activities in Atlanta. It's a great way to teach kids new skills and indulge their passions.

A New Van Gogh Immersive Art Installation Opens in DC

Seeing The Starry Night in total immersion is one of the highlights of Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience.

Vincent Van Gogh is certainly having a moment. A slew of immersive, larger-than-life art exhibits dedicated to the Dutch master have opened in cities all over the world. DC can now add itself to that list with the opening of Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience on August 6 at northeast DC's Rhode Island Center. And in a city teeming with museums, it offers something quite unique. 

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience is a 20,000-square-foot light and sound installation featuring two-story projections of the artist’s most compelling works so you can experience them in 360 degrees. It includes three galleries tracing the artist's development and life story. Giant fact-filled placards hang in the first two exhibition spaces before you ever encounter the finale: total immersion.

California Fun Facts for Kids: Wacky Truths About CA

Surfboards were invented in California, so of course kids here surf! Photo courtesy of Perfect Day Surf Camp

There are so many things to do in California with kids before they grow up (and another 100 or so things to do just in LA)—that’s why it’s the best place on earth to raise kids. Disneyland, the Golden Gate Bridge, and tons of other tourist attractions call California home. But that’s the stuff everyone knows. Scratch the surface and you’ll find California fun facts, firsts, and a weirdness that runs more than skin deep. CA is the birthplace of Barbie, the internet, fortune cookies, electric guitars, blue jeans, movies (of course!), and so much more...

6 Alpaca Farms to Visit in the Hudson Valley

Kids can go on a hike with the alpacas at Clover Brooke Farm. Photo courtesy of the farm

Given the popularity of petting zoos, it should come as little surprise that dedicated alpaca farms are a destination-worthy attraction in the Hudson Valley. In addition to learning about these long-necked farm friends, visitors might have the opportunity to feed, pet, or even trek with alpacas.

Alpacas are raised for their luxuriously soft fleece, which varies in color from white and black to rose-gray and fawn. Their springtime shearing results in a dramatically different appearance, prompting some visitors to vary the time of year when they visit. Budget both time and money to visit the farms’ gift shops, where artisanal creations might include blankets, winter accessories, and stuffed animals. Just be forewarned: The softness is addictive to the touch!

We’ve rounded up six Hudson Valley alpaca farms for your family’s next day trip. Advance reservations are generally required, and details should be confirmed before heading out. Remember to dress for outdoor conditions, including close-toed shoes, and advise your children to be calm and patient with the animals to optimize their rapport. Masks are generally being worn due to COVID-19. 

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