Long Island

Westhampton Beach Debuts New Playground

Kids can immerse themselves in the pirate theme at the newly renovated Ria Del Bene Memorial Playground.

Westhampton Beach unveils a new action-packed pirate ship playground experience at Ria Del Bene Memorial Playground. Families with younger and older kids will love the redesigned village play space in Suffolk County. The new equipment transports families with a vibrant, interactive pirate theme that my kids had a blast exploring.

Read on for the nautical details of this new gem on Long Island's playground scene. 

For even more family outdoor adventures check out our Guide to Park and Playgrounds on Long Island and our Ultimate Long Island Summer Vacation Guide.

Themed Restaurants on Long Island for Family-Friendly Dining

The ambiance is always a little spooky at the Witches Brew in West Hempstead. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

Family-friendly restaurants on Long Island are a great place to make unforgettable memories with kids, and many have fun themes or interactive experiences the whole family can enjoy together. From haunted hamburger houses to shipwreck diners to cotton candy desserts, we’ve rounded up the best themes and unique restaurant fun Long Island has to offer.

Check out our Family-Friendly Long Island Restaurant Guide for more kid-friendly spots to dine, including where kids eat free and more.

Empire Adventure Park, a Sprawling and High-Tech Indoor Playground, Debuts in Westbury

Bounce on the sprawling honeycomb trampoline floor, gaining serious air.

Empire Adventure Park is a first-of-its-kind indoor playground in New York that includes a huge trampoline area, obstacle courses, and augmented reality offerings. While I visited with two teen boys, this 35,000-square-foot space in Westbury appeals to toddlers through adults. 

For more on indoor play spaces, check out our Guide to Indoor Playgrounds on Long Island.

22 Best Free and Fun Things To Do on Long Island August 2024 with Kids

How sweet it is: Enjoy the watermelon festival at Harbes Family Farm this month. Photo courtesy of the farm

There are tons of things to do in August on Long Island–enjoy outdoor movies and concerts, summer festivals, and the best beach days. After all, summer isn't over yet!

Make the most of the last month of summer with our big list of things to do on Long Island in August. From a Taylor Swift laser show to cardboard races to the Paumanauke Pow Wow and The Long Island Retro Gaming Expo​, August is filled with amazing options.

Read on for all the ways to pack your calendar this month on Long Island!

Best Bowling Alleys on Long Island for Families

Bumpers and ramps make it easier for little kids to knock down some pins at Long Island bowling alleys. Photo by Gina Massaro

We’ve put together this list of the best bowling alleys for Long Island families so that you can find a great bowling spot no matter where you live on LI. From bumpers and ramps for toddlers to glow-in-the-dark game nights for tweens and teens, each venue offers a little something extra.

Most of these bowling alleys also offer specials during school breaks and some have after-school youth bowling leagues. 

Find more fun family outings in our Guide to Indoor Fun and on our always-updated Event Calendar.

Here's Why Wantagh Park Playground is My Family's Go-To Destination

Marina Playground has plenty of slides to experience.

Wantagh Park's newest addition, the Marina Playground, has just dethroned Eisenhower Park as our favorite playground in Nassau County. Interactive elements, cool nautical-themed structures, and equipment for multiple ages make this a perfect park for families with younger and older kids. Read on for more info on how exciting this new addition is in terms of Long Island's playground lineup. 

For lots more on Long Island playgrounds, check out our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds on Long Island

Thomas and Friends Come to Life at LICM this Summer with Kids

The lovable blue tank engine Thomas and his friends have rolled into Long Island. Children's Museum.

Family fun is always plentiful at the Long Island Children's Museum in Garden City. Summer's arrival brings with it an interactive Thomas & Friends: Explore the Rails exhibit, plus some seasonal outdoor fun, making this a perfect time to revisit the local kiddie culture spot, one of our favorite Long Island museums for kids.

Read on for all the details and start planning your next LICM visit. After all, this Long Island gem checks in at No. 31 on our epic summer bucket list.

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