Suffolk

Top Beach Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 07/19/2019 - 11:30am

Long Island beaches offer the opportunity for memory-making experiences. Some of the best include time frolicking on the playground to the soundtrack of crashing summer waves. We've rounded up some of the best beach spots with playgrounds in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End. So pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying these destinations. Make sure to snap pictures of the smiles from a fun day in the sun.

Candy Shops on Long Island Where You Can Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Submitted by Kimberly Chacon on Sun, 07/07/2019 - 12:46pm

Nothing is quite like a visit to a local candy shop on Long Island. Whether you are preparing to fill Easter baskets with goodies or just looking for a fun place to satisfy your sweet tooth, feasting your eyes on the vibrant colors, smelling the familiar scent of sugar, and anticipating the first bite of a sweet treat brings out the child in everyone.

A visit to one of these 20-plus Long Island destinations gives yours kids a chance to sample treats, take tours, or even a attend candy-making class. These shops offer everything from hand-dipped truffles to old-fashioned penny candies.

For more tasty treats, see our guide to old-fashioned Long Island ice cream parlors, destinations for decadent desserts, and even Long Island restaurants where kids can eat FREE.

Best Long Island Beach Towns for Families That Aren't in the Hamptons

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Fri, 07/05/2019 - 3:50pm

Long Island has some great beaches…and surrounding these beaches are some really great beach communities. And we’re not just talking about the Hamptons, Montauk and the North Fork.

On both coasts of Nassau and western Suffolk counties, there are communities that boast gorgeous seashores and so much more. From bustling boardwalks and marinas to harborfront shopping ... from dining to playgrounds and parks with water views to free outdoor music and events, these beach towns are the perfect stay-cation spots for Long Island families looking for alternatives to the East End.

Berry Farms on Long Island for Picking Your Own Blueberries, Blackberries, and More

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 06/30/2019 - 9:00am

Summer is a great time for berry picking on Long Island. Bushes are low to the ground, and berries are small enough for little fingers to grasp. It's a great activity for kids of all ages, and, really, who can resist a bowl of fresh berries and cream?

Late July is peak season for blueberries and raspberries. Blackberries ripen in August. Be sure to call the farms before heading out to confirm picking hours and berry availability. Don't forget to check out our Pick Your Own Guide for more fruit-picking options in the tristate area.

Mini-Golf Courses on Long Island for Great Family Fun

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Thu, 06/27/2019 - 1:00pm

Miniature golf courses on Long Island might be small. but they deliver large-size fun. On Long Island, our picturesque mini-golf destinations make the trip worthwhile. So stop putter-ing around and get on the green.

Miniature golf is one of those ideal outings the entire family can enjoy. Some Long Island venues are part of larger amusement parks that also offer water slides and other kid-friendly fun such as arcades. Others are situated in county or state parks or beaches. Whatever the location, these courses offer a wonderful day (or night) of fun at minimal cost.

50 Fun Summer Things to Do with Kids and Families in the Hamptons and North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 11:00am

So much to do, so little time. That’s a popular refrain on Long Island’s East End, where vacationers and residents alike struggle to pack as much adventure as possible into the 80-some days of summer. Which is where we come in, of course. Our Mommy Poppins experts have updated their list of the best fun things to do this summer with great family-friendly events in the Hamptons and North Fork. We’ve researched family beaches, state and county parks, pools, and even indoor options just in case Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate.

So if you're visiting the East End, have a look at this kid-friendly list of great summer activities. While you’re at it, check out our guide to this unique region, home to farms, museums, wineries, and even the trendy celebrity or two. Who knows: While you’re here, you might even scratch an item or two off our list of 100 must-do things with LI kids. Hurry, time’s a-wasting.

Guide to Fourth of July Fireworks on Long Island

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

It's almost the Fourth of July here on Long Island, and we're all excited for the fireworks. 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 activities at Jones Beach, Eisenhower Park, and elsewhere. And for the record, the fun doesn't end on July 4th 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 4th 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.