Best 4th of July Fireworks & Drone Shows in New Jersey 2024

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Willdwood's 4th of July celebration includes a parade, live music, and spectacular fireworks. Photo courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority

New Jersey's 4th of July fireworks shows are bigger and brighter than ever. We've got the scoop on where to catch 4th of July fireworks shows in the Garden State plus other Independence Day activities, from small-town celebrations to waterfront extravaganzas. Many of these festivals round out the fun with food trucks, live music, and children's activities, and most are FREE to attend. 

Plus, if you're in northern NJ, you can glimpse the famous Macy's 4th of July Fireworks this year, which return to the Hudson River for the first time in a decade!

Firework spectaculars take place on or around 4th of July weekend. For even more holiday weekend fun, be sure to check out our Activity Calendar and Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Our Epic Summer Bucket List of Things To Do in NYC with Kids

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Noshing on a funnel cake on the Coney Island boardwalk is a sweet ending to an epic day of summer fun.

When it comes to things to do in NYC, we're officially summer dreaming, and you're the beneficiary. We're sharing our summer bucket list of the top 50 things to do this summer in NYC with kids. Our picks are a mix of annual favorites and can't-miss, one-time-only events that prove the best vacation may just be a staycation.

Be sure to bookmark our Ultimate NYC Kids Summer Vacation Guide and our list of 100 FREE things to do in NYC this summer for even more seasonal fun.

Ft. Myers with Kids: 25 Top Things To Do in Ft. Myers, Florida

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Fort Myers beaches are a favorite destination for locals, snowbirds and vacationers. Photo courtesy of Visit Fort Myers

Ft. Myers, Florida—the gateway to the state's southwest region—is a city full of water-play opportunities, interactive museums, and a history that includes two of America's most famous inventors.

Though arguably more urban than Naples, its neighbor to the south, Ft. Myers also has stunning beaches. I'm talking about white sand, warm Gulf Coast water, and mild weather pretty much all-year round. The city was greatly impacted by Hurricane Ian in 2022, but it has largely bounced back. With great restaurants and resorts to boot, it's an ideal spot for a family vacation.

Read on for our top 25 things to do in Ft. Myers with kids, from Ft. Myers Beach to kid-friendly Ft. Myers hotels. Also, check out our Florida Vacation Guide for more trip ideas in the Sunshine State.

15 Swimming Lakes near Boston You Need To Discover

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Even the littlest ones will love splashing at these swimming lakes near Boston.

There are plenty of area beaches that are perfect for families looking to spend the day outside, but some kids prefer the warmer and calmer waters of one of Massachusetts' many swimming lakes. We’ve rounded up swimming lakes and ponds around Boston where kids can splash around in freshwater all summer long. Read on for our picks for the Boston's top swimming lakes for summer fun.

Looking to stay closer to home? These local spraygrounds and splash pads are another way to beat the heat this summer. Don't miss our summer fun guide for more fun activities, outdoors or in.

30 Fun Things to Do with Orlando Toddlers and Preschoolers in Summer

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Toddlers and young kids can let loose with their prehistoric friends at Dinosaur World's cute playground. Photo by Charlotte Blanton

Orlando toddlers and preschoolers are little balls of energy, especially during the warmer months. These kids love the summer, from splashy water activities to fun playgrounds. Orlando summers allow for toddlers and preschoolers (ages 1-5) to get loose with lots of great seasonal fun and events. In fact, many of these summer activities are FREE, which is an even bigger reason to explore Orlando with your toddler.

A Philly Guide to Citizens Bank Park with Kids

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Phillies baseball is a beloved activity, so cheer on the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park!

The Phillies are on fire this year, and nothing screams summer fun more than heading to the ballpark to watch your favorite team win. We've got tons of tips and tricks for navigating and enjoying Citizens Bank Park with little ones. So grab the sunscreen, throw on some Phillies gear, and let's head out to the ballgame!

Looking for more summer fun in Philly? Check out our Summer Acitivty Guide or our Guide to Area Beaches, Pools, and Lakes.

Chicago's Best Free Concerts and Outdoor Music Festivals for Families This Summer

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Take in a free summer concert in Chicago. Photo courtesy of Wiggleworms at Gallagher Way

Free summer concerts in Chicago mean families can enjoy being outside and listening to everything from local children's musicians to cover bands and other acts. The Chicago Park District hosts free summer concerts almost daily in different parks throughout the city, or families can hear music at Navy Pier, Harper Court, or Gallagher Way. Suburban families don't have to hit the city limits to get in on the action—many suburban park districts host free weekly outdoor concerts and shows near Chicago for kids of all ages.

The shows on this list are family-friendly, but check the artists in advance to ensure your child(ren) will be interested enough in the music to sit through a whole set. Consider sitting farther back or bringing earplugs for sound-sensitive kids.

Here are some great free concerts in Chicago this summer, and don't forget to check out our Ultimate Chicago Kids Summer Vacation Guide for more fun things to do.

 

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