Nassau

Corn Mazes and Fall Farm Fun for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Thien August on Tue, 09/19/2017 - 3:20pm

Fall on Long Island means cooler weather and shorter days, but it also means fun seasonal activities such as hayrides and corn mazes. Whether you make it a race or plan your route strategically, corn mazes are fun for the whole family and they don’t always have to be scary. Many mazes and hayrides are available during the day, so even the youngest family members can enjoy these seasonal outdoor activities.

Call venues ahead of time to be sure they are open, especially if the weather is bad or if there has been a storm. Wearing boots or comfortable shoes is a good idea as the fields can be uneven and potentially wet. For more seasonal fun, check out our list of fall fairs and festivals and the best farms for apple picking.

Nature Centers Sure to Delight Long Island Kids

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 09/15/2017 - 1:15pm

Long Island has an abundance of natural parklands and beautiful waterways to explore. Many of these destinations offer indoor and outdoor nature-based activities for children and their caregivers. So we've compiled this directory of nature centers with all the information you'll need for a fun family outing celebrating the great outdoors in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End.

Looking for more ways to experience nature? Take a look at our list of family-friendly hiking trails and great bikes trails for Long Island families.

15 Long Island State Parks Worth a Visit

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Thu, 09/07/2017 - 6:20pm

No matter what the season, and no matter where you live on Long Island, there’s a state park just waiting for you and your family.

From hiking in the fall to snow shoeing in the winter…from bird watching in the spring to camping in the summer, these gorgeous state parks have something special to offer Long Island families all year round.

To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of parks we believe are worth a visit. An Empire Pass gives you access to any New York state park for the year, but be sure to look at each park’s website for additional vehicle and/or entry fees and restrictions. Of course, Jones Beach and Robert Moses state parks are prime oceanside getaways in the summer; these parks offer year-round entertainment.

For more family fun, see our September GoList, explore our suggestions for a fun weekend getaway, or check out our Long Island Events Calendar.

Go-Kart and Slot Car Racing Destinations for LI Kids

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 09/05/2017 - 9:45pm

Want to go for a spin? Then check out one of Long Island’s go-kart or slot car tracks.

Parents of kids who love being in the driver’s seat will love what these high-speed destinations offer. Inexpensive and thrilling, they’re ideal for kids who refuse to take a back seat to anyone. Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines.

For more indoor fun, see our guide to play spaces and fun zones. If your kids prefer to pedal, our guide to Long Island biking trails offers great rides in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End.

Music Together Sing Shalom, New Jewish Music Program For Long Island Families

Submitted by Jessica Laird on Thu, 08/31/2017 - 10:00am

For many moms and dads, Music Together® might as well be the official soundtrack to early parenthood. Even those who haven't taught their toddlers to shake a tambourine at one of the many classes available across Long Island are probably familiar with the much-loved program that brings kids and caregivers together through music and movement. And while Music Together has been a family favorite since it first launched in the eighties, its latest collaboration with The Jewish Education Project is a really exciting new addition to the already-popular offerings.

Kid-Friendly Marinas on Long Island's Waterfront

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 08/18/2017 - 4:20pm

Whether or not you own a boat, marinas are an attraction for their water views and laid-back atmosphere. Add a restaurant, fishing pier, and an amazing sunset and it becomes quite a destination for family fun. It’s no wonder Long Islanders ienjoy hanging out at the marina on a summer day. Here are our picks for marinas that offer plenty of fun extras.

Looking for more waterfront fun? Check out our list of family-friendly boat rides and the best beaches for Long Island families.

Top Mommy-and-Me Baby Classes on Long Island

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Tue, 08/15/2017 - 6:12pm

From Zumba to yoga to cooking and art, there are plenty of ways to nurture your baby’s mind, body, and creative spirit. Not to mention your own. We’ve rounded up some of the best mommy-and-me classes on Long Island, ideal if you want to to stay fit or learn a new craft. You and your baby will have fun, meet other moms and tots, and, most importantly, spend precious time together.

Of course, classes are open to dads, grandparents and other caregivers. Be sure to check class websites for times, costs and registration details.

For more suggestions on inexpensive ways to entertain your kids, check out our guide to FREE activities on Long Island, including 50 Free Things to Do with Long Island Kids. Our classes and enrichment guide also offers a host of ideas to stimulate your child's learning.

Have fun.

Bounce Houses and Trampoline Parks for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Fri, 08/04/2017 - 6:18pm

If you find your high-energy kids are bouncing off the walls, it may be time to head to one of the many bounce houses and trampoline parks found throughout Long Island.

From inflatable slides to obstacle courses and high-flying trampolines, these play spaces are a great way for kids to work off their energy and have some indoor fun when it’s too hot, cold, or wet to play outdoors.

Whether you’re looking for an impromptu bouncing session or want to schedule a birthday party, most of these venues offer a variety of play options. Just be sure to check out their websites for all the specifics.

And for more active fun indoors and outdoors around Long Island, check out our Summer Fun Guide and the Event Calendar.

Top Pumpkin Patches and Farms for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Tue, 08/01/2017 - 10:00am

The leaves soon will start turning colors, and you might have noticed there’s a crispness in the air, which can only mean one thing: it’s time to go pumpkin picking. Happily, no matter where you live on Long Island there are places to find the perfect family pumpkins—whether you want to pick your own off the vine or have the picking already done for you.

All of these farms and pumpkin patches offer other family-fun activities such as corn mazes, hayrides, and more, so make a day of it. Pick-your-own farms are fun, but can get messy, so make sure kids are dressed appropriately. Look at individual websites for hours and costs since some activities are free while other attractions have added fees.

If you’re heading to one of the farms on the East End, why not stop at a kid-friendly winery or a pick-your-own apple farm? And, for more seasonal fun, check out our list of the best fairs and festivals.

Happy autumn.

Fishing on Long Island: Where to Cast a Line with Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 07/28/2017 - 3:30pm

Ready to teach your little one how to cast a line? Fishing is not only a fun outdoor family activity, but also one with deep roots on Long Island with its maritime history and culture.

Surrounded by water, kids can drop a line in myriad waterfront towns, beaches, local piers, boats, and parks. We've rounded up a few of our favorite family-friendly fishing venues around Long Island where you can test your skills for hooking the catch of the day.

Looking for more summer seaside enjoyment? Make sure to visit our list of stunning Long Island lighthouses.