If you usually have an artificial Christmas tree or head off to the nearest mega-store for your pre-cut Christmas tree, why not start a new holiday tradition by going out to one of Connecticut's many cut-your-own farms?  The unmistakable smell of pine, the freshly made treats, and large decorative wreaths these homey places offer will definitely get you in a festive mood.  We've also listed more Christmas Tree Farms in Litchfield County and in Fairfield County.

A "City Under the Sea" is coming to the American Dream entertainment complex in the NJ Meadowlands next spring, with interactive exhibits showcasing more than 3,000 sea creatures from jellyfish to sharks. Merlin Entertainment unveiled its plans for the metro-themed SEA LIFE aquarium at a media event last week, and Mommy Poppins was there to get the scoop.

The first SEA LIFE to open in the Northeast, the New Jersey aquarium will join nine other locations across the U.S., including aquariums in San Antonio, Texas; Orlando, FL; and Carlsbad, CA. New Jersey SEA LIFE will open alongside the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, which is also slated to open at American Dream in spring 2020.

If you’re looking for something to keep the kids entertained for hours, look no further than Urban Air Adventure Park in Lake Grove. This 48,000-square foot indoor adventure park has something for kids of all ages. While the littlest members of your brood enjoy the indoor playground and trampolines, big kids (and their parents) can channel their inner ninja warrior on the ropes course, climbing wall and Sky Rider Coaster. 

Looking for more places to play? We've got you covered with guides to the best indoor play spaces in Nassau County and Suffolk County. There's fun to be had even when the weather is chilly, check out the Winter Fun Guide for the best in seasonal entertainment. And for more family fun all year long, be sure to check out events calendar. 

Many kids get excited to dress up and head out to a special place during the holidays—especially when delicious treats are involved. These restaurants and hotels are rolling out the red carpet (and some pretty fantastic pastries) for kids and their parents this month with festive holiday and Christmas teas. From the Four Season's celebrity-studded Teddy Bear Tea downtown to a Victorian-inspired Santa Tea in Waltham, these events are sure to get kids in the seasonal spirit (and provide some photo ops, too!)

See our post about Santa breakfasts around Boston for more special holiday meals ideas, and our roundup of kid-friendly restaurants near Boston for a relaxed meal during Christmastime or anytime.

Spanning nearly 150 miles with stunning views, natural landmarks to explore, deep history, and adorable small towns, a trip to the Shenandoah Valley is well worth the drive. The only question is, where to start? Growing up in the Shenandoah Valley, I'm amazed at how much of this beautiful scenery remains unchanged for decades. Farms span innumerable acres. You can still catch a cart and buggy, and have your pick of some of the best local produce at pop-up farmers markets in unexpected places. But the Valley isn't locked in time. It is thriving with new small businesses, a growing winery and brewery scene, and an intentional effort on the part of Virginia's small towns to create more amenities and attractions. 

To help you navigate this expansive region just west of Washington, DC, and bordering West Virginia, we've put together a list of the 40 best things to see and do with your family, including exploring Shenandoah National Park and the famed Skyline Drive.