Climbing aboard an enchanting Polar Express on Long Island used to be but a dream. Instead, it meant a long road trip to one of these Polar Express and Christmas trains near NYC or setting a calendar alert to grab the tickets to the uber-popular Essex North Pole Express train in Connecticut as soon as they went on sale, but there's a new Polar Express on Long Island that's very close to home, thanks to the newly launched Long Island Polar Express Experience courtesy of the Long Island Airstream Experience.

So, start dreaming of Christmas magic as you read on for details on this Polar Express train on Long Island, which comes straight to you, and say so long gas and tolls—it's a veritable Christmas miracle.

If you're looking to add a little indulgence to your day, why not visit one of these Long Island restaurants serving up decadent desserts sure to hit your sweet spot. From groovy, tie-dye milkshakes to larger-than-life sundaes, here are 11 family-friendly restaurants on Long Island serving outrageously over-the-top sweet treats.

For more dessert finds, check out our list of old-fashioned ice cream parlors on Long Island and find more all-occasion eats in our Guide to Family-Friendly Restaurants.

If your adventuresome little skater likes to carve and ollie and has started turning your furniture and household items into a skating playground, we've got a better idea. Take them to one of these skate parks in Long Island, where roller skaters, bladers, skateboarders, trick bikers, and more daredevils show off their stunts, fully padded and protected of course.

Find more action-packed outings in our guide to Sports Centers and Fun Zones on Long Island.

Fork through our list of Long Island restaurants with fun entertainment options for kids and spice up your dining-out routine. If you are feeling like a slave to the kitchen while you prepare mac and cheese for the third time this week, drop the ho-hum routine and head to one of these local, family-friendly restaurants that serve up food and fun.

A number of eateries in Nassau and Suffolk counties pair kid-sized meals with giant-sized entertainment. So whether you prefer the neighborhood mom-and-pop or the local destination of a national chain, your little ones are guaranteed a fun time and healthy lunch or dinner choices.

For more inspiration, see our guide to kid-friendly dining on Long Island. And while you're at it, check out our list of LI restaurants where kids eat FREE.

Don't fret if your preteen's birthday has rolled around and you realize he or she has outgrown the bouncy house circuit. There are plenty of party options on Long Island specifically for this age group. Discerning tweens know what they like, so we've rounded up a list of awesome party spots that will impress this picky crowd.

From zip lines to fashion shows, these tween birthday bash ideas at cool Long Island spots fit the bill for that special day. Call the venues for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Got a not-so-little kid? You'll want to take a look at our guide to tween and teen fun on Long Island for exciting things to do. And for more birthday party ideas, check out our Long Island party guide.

Samanea New York in Westbury is about to overhaul its look with tenants such as The Gravity Vault and Empire Adventure Park signing 10-year leases to transform this space into an entertainment hub.

For more thrill-seeking fun, check out our list of obstacle courses, rock walls, and ninja warrior walls. Find more local Long Island play spaces in our Kids' Sports Centers Guide or Indoor Play Spaces Guide.

The brand new Shimmering Solstice walk-through, outdoor light show at Old Westbury Gardens boasts features that you don't see during its regular season. Instead of roses, visitors can view the lush, sprawling grounds blooming in holiday lights this season. The entirely outdoor experience is a stunning alternative to drive-thru holiday light shows. Read on for a preview of what to expect during your visit, then find more ways to mark the season in our Holiday Guide for Long Island Families.

It takes time and planning to achieve the picture-perfect winter holiday photo for your family Christmas cards or other season's greetings. One of the most important decisions you'll make is the location you choose for your backdrop. With so many beautiful Long Island landscapes, the biggest challenge you'll face is whether to pack up the kids and head to the beach, a lighthouse, vineyard, or even the aquarium. These 13 Long Island landscapes make for stunning and memorable backdrops for your holiday photos.

Find more seasonal fun in our Holiday and Christmas Fun Guide for Long Island families, from virtual Santa sightings to the best light displays, and more.