Nassau

Fourth of July Fireworks Shows and Community Events on Long Island

Submitted by Gina Massaro on Fri, 06/21/2019 - 2:40pm

It's almost the Fourth of July: Fireflies are out, grills are on, and the smell of fire pits is in the air. Summer has arrived, and we've rounded up some of the most spectacular Fourth of July fireworks shows on Long Island, from Nassau to Suffolk and the East End; from June and past Independence Day in July.

So don your red. white, and blue and after your park barbecue or visit to the beach, grab the kids and head out for some Fourth of July pageantry. And for the record, the fun doesn't end on July Fourth on Long Island; fireworks shows continue through mid-July. Check out our Event Calendar for other fireworks spectaculars or use it to plan a summer day trip.

Maybe even take in a FREE outdoor community concert or movie. Whatever you choose, have a great Fourth of July.

50 Free Things to Do With Long Island Kids This Summer

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Sun, 06/16/2019 - 12:45pm

Does the thought of a full summer vacation make you think of empty pockets?

In between camps, parties, sitters, and trips, the next two months can get costly. And for a family with more than one child, even a trip to the water park can add up. But summer doesn’t have to drain your wallet.

We've compiled a list of 50 FREE things families can do together. From outdoor concerts and movies, to museums, classes, and festivals, Long Island has something going on all summer long.

Check a few more things off your bucket list with our Summer Fun Guide. Feeling really ambitious? Here are 100 things to do with Long Island kids before they grow up. See our guide to FREE family activities on Long Island for even more inspiration.

Best Public Swimming Pools for LI Kids, with Water Slides, Spray Parks, and Playgrounds

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 06/14/2019 - 11:30am

Long Island families often look to public swimming pools to cool off in summertime. But when the kids are bored with the municipal pool down the street, maybe it's time to check out a family-friendly pool or water park in another community.

We’ve done the research and put together a list of swimming pools, water playgrounds, splash pads, and kiddie pools that anyone can visit, even if you’re not a resident of that municipality. Fees to enter the pools are often higher for nonresidents, but it might be worth it as a once-in-a-while boredom buster.

If you’re exploring a different area of Long Island, use our guides to Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End to find more fun things to do and make an adventure of it all. And don't forget our guide to summer fun for all the best things to do on Long Island during the school break.

Summer Day Trips for Long Island Families

Submitted by Natalie Ferro A... on Sun, 06/09/2019 - 11:00am

While there are plenty of things to do on Long Island during the summer months, sometimes it's nice to change your routine and explore a different area. And how lucky are we, that there are so many kid-friendly destinations just a ferry, train, or car ride away? Families can spend the day exploring these locations and all they have to offer.

Here are a few of our favorite easy getaways from Long Island, including nearby Connecticut, New Jersey, Rhode Island, New York City, and upstate New York destinations.

And for what's happening back on Long Island, be sure to check out our Summer Fun Guide.

25 Great Father's Day Activities for Long Island Dads

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 06/02/2019 - 1:30pm

For all the wonderful things they do for their families, dads and grandads deserve some extra-special attention on Father’s Day. In case you haven’t made plans yet, we’ve put together a list of activities to do with dear old dad or grandpa that will let them know how much they're loved and appreciated.

So, whether he’s crazy for sports, loves to spend time outdoors, or enjoys creating things with his hands, we hope our roundup sparks some fun ideas to do on June 16. And for more family-friendly options this month, check out our JuneGoList and our Summer Fun Guide.

As always, check websites or call before heading out for potential weather-related cancellations. Happy Father's Day to all our dads and grandfathers.

25 Things We Can't Wait To Do This Summer with LI Kids

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 05/31/2019 - 1:00pm

It's what most of us have been waiting for all year: summe r. At long last, it's nearly here. That means longer days, warmer weather, and plenty of time to take advantage of all Long Island has to offer families.

From swimming at beautiful beaches to taking a family-friendly road trip to the East End or exploring local parks and playgrounds, there is no reason you should have to hear the words “I’m bored!” from your kids this summer. To help your family get the most out of the season, we’ve put together a list of 25 things we can’t wait to do with our kids, including some great one-of-a-kind events.

From Fire Island to Shelter Island, Port Washington to Port Jefferson, and all points in between, here are our suggestions for the best ways to enjoy this unique island we call home. Or see how many of our top 100 things to do with Long Island kids you can complete before summer is out.

Plus, our event calendar is full of the best ideas for family fun, sorted by date and location. So here's to sunshine and family time.

9 Super Fun Water Parks, Slides, and Pools on Long Island

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 05/19/2019 - 12:24pm

Slip-slidin’ away! There are few better ways to stay cool on Long Island this summer than by heading down a slippery water slide, splashing around in a refreshing swimming pool, or getting drenched at a water park. That's why we invite you to check out our list of the hottest spots on Long Island where kids and adults can stay cool, even on the most sweltering days. Check websites for rates and hours. Town pools are usually open to nonresidents, but they might have to pay a higher entry fee.

Find more fun in our guide to Long Island theme parks and our guide to the best parks and playgrounds for Long Island families.

The Best Beaches for Families on Long Island

Submitted by Kimberly Chacon on Fri, 05/17/2019 - 1:15pm

Stretching along the north and south shores of Long Island are dazzling beaches known for their family-friendly vibes and natural beauty, and we don't mean just the Hamptons. Whether you have younger kids looking for tranquil shores or older kids looking to body surf, there is a Long Island beach for you. It's time to get ready for cool sea breezes and the feeling of sand between your toes.

At these Long Island's family beaches, you'll find picnic areas, swimming pools, and bathroom complexes along with food trucks and umbrella rentals. Use our guide to choose the best beach for your family's needs. These beaches are staffed from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, unless noted. Prices listed are for summer 2019.

If you're in the mood to travel, check out our list of the best family beaches near New York City or our guide to the Jersey Shore area. For more family fun, see our guide to Long Island amusement and water parks.

Top Long Island Playgrounds for Toddlers

Submitted by Kimberly Chacon on Tue, 05/14/2019 - 12:00pm

Toddlers seem to have endless energy and the power to play all day. They might want to do all that older kids can, but with wobbly legs and arms that can't quite reach, they require special playgrounds.

From Nassau to Suffolk counties and all the way to the East End, designers of Long Island's parks have been thoughtful in creating play spaces for our littlest residents. So as the weather gets warmer, why not take your toddlers to a spot designed with their needs in mind?

We have done the legwork and scouted out the top toddler playgrounds across Long Island. Be sure to check our full list of parks and playgrounds on Long Island, then get out there and enjoy these beautiful days.

18 Super Sprinkler Parks for Kids on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 05/12/2019 - 12:35pm

When the temperature rises, there’s nothing like jumping through a sprinkler to cool off. Long Island sprinkler parks are great places to take kids because unlike pools and beaches, sprinkler parks have low water depth and often a rubber-like surface. Just add sunscreen and let the adventures begin.

We’ve put together a list of super sprinkler parks that are open to everyone. We've even included a few parks open to residents only. Proof of residency and/or a membership pass can be required at those facilities. Fees and opening days vary, so check websites or call before going.

For more aquatic fun, take a look at our guide to Long Island amusement parks and water parks. For other kid-friendly activities, check out our Spring and Summer Fun Guides, and our recommendations for the best beach playgrounds as well as other top playgrounds and parks on LI.