Mini golf is a family-friendly activity that has withstood the test of time! Mini golf near Atlanta is always a reliable outing that's part entertainment, part sport, and all fun! Mini golf courses run the gamut of themes, from pirates and carnivals to monsters and dinosaurs, and some even include glow in the dark mini golf. Indoor mini golf in Atlanta features creative settings and blessed air conditioning; outdoor mini golf offers colorful themes and space to spread out. And regardless of your age, there's something strangely exhilirating about holding those tiny golf pencils, right?!

They say the best things in life are free — and that includes family fun here in Philly! Winter, spring, summer, or fall, families can explore a variety of indoor and outdoor spots found throughout the region that offer lots of enjoyment without charge.

Sometimes, finding activities in the City of Brotherly Love for the entire family can get a bit pricey...unless you know where to look. The good news? We do! So with all the things Philly has to offer, there's no reason to let money prohibit you from missing out on a day of family fun. Check out these engaging, educational, and free activities in the Philly area, perfect for kids under 12.

For more fun on a budget, check out our Free Activities Guide.

Summertime in the DC area brings the HEAT! Luckily, we have an array of ways to cool off in the water, including swimming pools, splash pads, and water parks. A classic but often overlooked option, however, is creek play! A favorite pastime in our family, creek play is a great way to beat the heat that requires less planning or production than some of the above options, which is a win in my book.

Playing in creeks offers children a unique blend of physical, sensory, and imaginative experiences that support healthy development. There is nothing quite like splashing through shallow water, turning over stones, and observing insects, minnows, and other creatures in their natural habitat.

Here are 15 of the best places for creek play in the DC area, where kids can splash, wade, and explore safely. Our Washington, DC Kids Summer Guide has even more fun ways to beat the heat.

Come float upriver and see what makes the Hudson Valley such a special place to visit with the whole family in tow. We will start down in Westchester and head up almost all the way to Albany. You decide where "upstate New York" starts, but as an HV resident myself, I'll say it's farther north than you probably think.

Just be careful as you explore, lest you find yourself dreamily browsing the photos taped on the windows of the real estate offices. These are very charming towns.

For more adventures, check out our 3 Day Ultimate Hudson Valley Itinerary, written by another of our local correspondents, or our list of Best Hotels and Resorts for a Hudson Valley hotel or resort to stay. 

Lindenhurst's new indoor play space, Jetsetter Kids Club, reaches for the stars and delivers. Impressive and unique play structures, plus great thematic elements, make this a must-visit indoor play space for Long Island families. Read on below for all the details on this stellar indoor playground. 

Looking for more active fun? Check out our Guide to Indoor Play Spaces on Long Island and our Playground and Parks Guide.

Like many New Jersey residents, I moved here from Manhattan years ago but still feel that itch for metropolitan perks, like walkability, diversity of restaurants and shops, and an energetic community hub. The good news is, you can explore great walkable downtowns right here in New Jersey, where you'll find both chain and independent shops, art museums, unique bookstores, delicious cafes serving up local eats, and more. 

If you choose to leave the car at home, most of these downtowns are near New Jersey Transit trains or buses. Whether a day trip destination or a quick stop for lunch and shopping, these great walkable downtowns are worth a visit. 

Be sure to check out our Guide to Family Day Trips in New Jersey for more easy and fun in-state tourism ideas. 

For many New York City families, bunk beds are a way of life where small-space living means many city kids share a room. So, if you're planning an NYC getaway, why not live like a New Yorker and book one of these NYC hotels with bunk beds?

These local hotels with bunk beds are packed with family-friendly amenities and close to many of our favorite local attractions in tourist-heavy neighborhoods, including Midtown Manhattan.

Find all our top picks for NYC hotels with bunk beds below, or more options for family-friendly hotels in NYC in our NYC Visitors Guide, which has all our top tips for tourists, including a curated three-day itinerary for visiting families crafted by a local mom.

Here's your insider guide on everything you need to know about the Annenberg Beach House in Santa Monica with kids. 

Have you ever dreamed of relaxing in a beach house, then slipping effortlessly from a sparkling pool to the sandy shore? We're talking Malibu Barbie in real-life energy. Me too. If you're like me and spend your extra cash on baseball gear and ballet lessons, not beach houses, then I have some awesome news for you: There's a free, public beach house in Santa Monica, and it is amazing.

Everyone is welcome to pretend that they're Hollywood's finest while basking in the SoCal sun at this kid-friendly beach destination in Santa Monica. The beach house is perfect for families, with activities that will appeal to your squealing toddlers and your TikTokkin' teens. 

Keep the fun in the sun going in Santa Monica with amusement rides at the Santa Monica Pier or bike The Strand along the ocean. Younger kids will appreciate all there is to do at the Cayton Children's Museum or Heal the Bay Aquarium. Discover more fun things to do in Santa Monica with kids.