Contrary to what you might think, you don't need to invest in expensive equipment or even leave New York City to pitch a tent and go camping. The Urban Park Rangers offer FREE overnight family camping in city parks at select times and locations throughout the spring, summer, and fall. Bonus: They bring almost everything you need for a night spent under the stars, including the tent.

The program has opened registration for its annual sleepovers, and we've got all the details on how to snag a spot to one of these cool camping trips. If you're more of a savvy DIYer, consider planning a family getaway to one of these campsites near NYC with extra family-friendly perks.

June is for Dads, Grads, and summer fun. And that's not all, there's National Donut Day, Donald Duck Day, Dancing Day, and even some celebrations that don't start with the letter D! As we kick off summer with all these activities, June is a month where you’ll never be searching for activities, things to do, and fun things to celebrate with kids!

Check this list, and you’ll find the perfect thing to do with your kids each and every day. Be sure to check our local summer guides for more ideas to keep you busy in June and all summer long.

Every season in the Hudson Valley brings its own unique charms and a catalog of family-friendly fun. But summer in our region brings a bonanza of things to do that you are certain to enjoy just as much as your kids.

From stunning outdoor hikes and swimming spots to super-fun indoor activities, there's something for every mood and every family.

For even more ideas, check out our Summer Fun Guide, which includes our story on must-do summer activities in Westchester. 

Doughnuts are a favorite treat for Long Island families in any season. These mouthwatering desserts have been elevated with unique recipes, sugary combinations, and fruit explosions to delight any kid's wildest treat cravings. 

We've rounded up a list of the best doughnut shops and bakeries in Long Island offering classic favorites, breakfast cereal doughnuts, candy-stacked doughy treats, fruit-filled and cream-packed ones, as well as savory options. Many spots offer gluten-free doughnuts and vegan options, while some have sugar-free combos. My kids never turn down a dessert adventure! 

Read ahead for our top picks to start your Long Island doughnut crawl with the kids. For even more culinary and dessert adventures, check out our Guide to Long Island's best Family-Friendly Restaurants, which includes our story on LI's old-fashioned ice cream parlors.

Summer evenings scream for alfresco eats, and New Yorkers have plenty of options, from kid-friendly restaurants with outdoor space to family-friendly beer gardens. Another option: the spate of outdoor night markets popping up across the boroughs, with international eats, live music, and plenty of people watching. Even better, we’ve perused the options and culled a selection of eateries in these popular night markets in NYC to please even the pickiest kids. Read on to find your new favorite outdoor family dinner spot.

Find all our top picks for kid-friendly eats in our NYC Kids' Guide to Restaurants.

The best kid-friendly activities, events, and more happening this summer in Houston!