Suffolk

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.

Awesome Amusement Parks on Long Island

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 05/10/2019 - 10:30am

Feeling the need for speed and splash? Long Island amusement parks are ready for you and your thrill-seeking family. If your kids are eager to check out the latest rides and attractions, or you can’t wait to make new memories with your family at parks you enjoyed as a child, now is the perfect time to explore these local amusement centers.

For more entertainment inspiration, see our guide to Long Island amusement and water parks or our roundup of children's sports centers and fun zones in Nassau and Suffolk. Our guide to family fun on Long Island is loaded with reviews of local and regional destinations sure to delight your child.

Pick Your Own Strawberry Farms and Festivals on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Sun, 05/05/2019 - 9:00am

Long Island is ripe with places where families can pick their own strawberries. Deciding where to go can be a challenge, so we've handpicked a few of our favorites.

Harvesting your own fruit is not only fun, but it connects you with the source of your food and supports local farmers. And it doesn't get fresher than picking fruit right off the vine. This is especially important for Long Island strawberries, which are sweeter and more delicate than most grocery-store varieties, and have a shorter shelf life.

Many of these farms are located on Long Island's East End, but there are a few festivals in Nassau or western Suffolk counties for families who don't want to travel quite as far. Either way, call ahead or check the farms' websites to confirm that fields are open and the strawberries are ripe.

The Best Animal Farms and Petting Zoos on Long Island

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Fri, 04/19/2019 - 7:11pm

Whether you are looking for a low-key petting zoo or an exotic experience with wild animals, there's no shortage of places on Long Island where children can interact with nature's noble creatures. If they want to, Long Island kids can do everything from feed a giraffe to visit with an alpaca, and even ride a safari train.

Be sure to check our directory of zoos and gardens on Long Island, and peruse our pick-your-own guide for more local farm fun. And, for more seasonal fun, be sure to check our event calendar

The Best Children's Playgrounds on Long Island

Submitted by Thien August on Fri, 04/05/2019 - 10:32am

An abundance of parks and playgrounds makes Long Island a wonderful place to raise a family. These destinations are, of course, great places for little ones to get valuable exercise and to have fun. They are also ideal places for parents to chat while kids play. Feel free to get in on the action because kids love it when parents get silly and have fun, too.

We’ve scouted the best playgrounds across the Island—in Nassau and Suffolk, and on the East End—where you’ll find plenty of space for you and your little ones. For more playground inspiration, check our guide to day trips to Long Island's top parks and playgrounds, including our top playgrounds for toddlers.

Where to See Cherry Blossoms and More Blooms on Long Island

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 03/31/2019 - 11:30am

After a long winter, spring arrives and colors burst all over Long Island. These are perfect days to explore some of the Island’s family-friendly gardens and state parks, where displays of vibrant, eye-popping cherry blossoms—along with a host of other springtime trees and flowers—are in full bloom.

From the Arbor Day Family Festival (April 27-28) at Planting Fields Arboretum to the annual Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival (May 5) at Stony Brook University, your kids get to experience the natural beauty of the season, explore the outdoors, and even learn about different cultures.

25 Spring Break Activities for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Sun, 03/24/2019 - 11:30am

If your family is planning a stay-cation here on Long Island during spring break and you’re searching for things to do, you’ve come to the right place.

For most public school students on Long Island, spring break runs from Friday, April 19 to Sunday, April 28. We’ve rounded up 25 fun activities that will keep your kids busy and happily entertained. Between day and weeklong camps, indoor events for rainy days and nature excursions that get your family outside, there’s something for everyone.Try one or more of these activities, and we're confident you’ll never again hear those dreaded words: "I’m bored " (Well, at least not during spring break, anyway).