Islip

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.

Sip a Coffee and Save a Kitten at LI Cat Cafes

Submitted by Rebekah Yahoves on Tue, 04/02/2019 - 12:00pm

If your family is in the market for a new kitty or just looking for the purr-fect way to spend an afternoon, you are in for a furry good time. The Shabby Tabby, Long Island's first cat cafe, is waiting for you to frolic and munch with some new feline friends.

Make an hourlong reservation at the cafe in Sayville and enjoy some cuddly time with your favorite fur-balls while enjoying a complimentary beverage and tasty pastries. All of the cats are spayed/neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and ready for adoption.

What's more, a second cat cafe, A Kitten Kaboodle, plans to open in Selden in June, offering more fun for animal-lovin' tots. In the meantime, check out our list of the best animal farms and petting zoos on Long Island and our roundup of animal encounter birthday party destinations for Long Island kids.

Fire Island with Kids: Top Things to Do for Families

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Tue, 07/17/2018 - 9:32am

Fire Island seems to have it all: gorgeous beaches, quaint communities, outdoor dining and waterfront hotels, boating, camping and hiking, even an historic lighthouse. It’s the perfect vacation destination for families, whether it’s for a quick day trip, a weekend getaway, or an extended stay.

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.

Awesome Arcades for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Jaime Sumersille on Fri, 04/21/2017 - 1:15pm

Get your little gamers off the couch and out of the house at these awesome arcades on Long Island. As a bonus, most arcades are located at party places or sports complexes. Get the whole family (and friends) together for some bowling, laser tag or mini-golf, and cap off your trip with ticket-winning arcade games for a chance to win some valuable prizes.

Get more ideas on what to do inside with kids in our Indoor Play Spaces Guide or Kids' Sports Centers Guide. And for even more kid-friendly activities, check out our Long Island Events Calendar.