Summer Activities

Pier C Park in Hoboken: An Urban Oasis for NJ Kids and Families

Submitted by Margaret Hargrove on Mon, 07/24/2017 - 6:03pm

Not your typical suburban playground, Hoboken’s Pier C Park has a decidedly urban vibe that will delight little and big kids alike—and adults, too! With the Manhattan skyline as a gorgeous backdrop, this amoeba-shaped oasis sits on a two-and-a-half-acre pier off the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, between Third and Fourth Streets in downtown Hoboken.

The park is separated into two playgrounds and also offers sand and water play. You won’t find any of your standard, primary-colored play equipment here, nor any swings. The landscape has an old-fashioned feel, with lots of rustic wood and metal touches. The promenade, along the eastern edge of the pier, provides grassy lawn areas for families to picnic, play games, and soak in the sights. Use this day trip–worthy park as a launch pad to enjoy all that Hoboken has to offer.

Tubing and Water Rafting Adventures for Philly Families

Submitted by Lindsay Li on Mon, 07/24/2017 - 10:00am

One of my fondest family-bonding memories was setting out on our first whitewater rafting adventure. I was nine, barely old enough for the rapids my family picked, so when I helped steer the boat past a "dangerous rock" (as our guide put it) I felt incredibly important. The entire day was fun, we worked together as a team, and we still talk about our adventures to this day. All this to say, whitewater rafting is seriously one of the most fun things I can think of to do as a family. Second only to our many adventures tubing. Nothing beats a day on the river, floating, swimming, and basking in the sun. Occasionally catching a little rapid and racing to see who can get to the best spots first.

If you are tired of these 90 degree days and looking for some spectacular fun outdoor activities, we have you covered with our picks of the best rafting and tubing spots in the area. For more water fun, check out our roundup of spots to go canoeing and boating near Philadelphia.

If you decide to head to the Poconos for your water adventures, check out our list of 61 Things To Do in the Poconos for more fun places to check out while you're there.

10 Great Beach Day Trips in Connecticut

Submitted by Sherry Pardy on Fri, 07/21/2017 - 7:00pm

As a lifelong resident of Connecticut, the list of my state's redeeming qualities is lengthy. Among the attributes of living in the Nutmeg State, is our close proximity to water. No matter where in Connecticut you find yourself, you're likely within an hour's drive of a beach! And, in the summer, with anxious, energetic kiddos, the less time spent in the car, the better. So, we've compiled a list of 10 great beach day trips within Connecticut. There's sure to be one close to you! Make sure to check out our list of 8 Affordable Connecticut Beaches too. And for more summer fun check out our CT Summer Fun Guide.

24 Festivals, Fairs, and Carnivals for Philly Families this August

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 07/21/2017 - 5:00pm

If visiting a summertime festival, fair, or carnival is on your summer bucket list and it has yet to be crossed off, look no further. Here is our round-up of Delaware Valley's August fun. These festivals, featuring entertaining live music, delicious foods, rides, and culture, will not disappoint. So take a look and be sure to visit some of these events with your family this month.