Did you know you can go horseback riding in New York City? While your NYC apartment probably won't accommodate a pet pony, you can indulge your child’s love of horses without leaving town. There are several options for family-friendly horseback riding and grooming lessons, plus drop-in trail riding experiences, which offer a unique way to experience the great outdoors in NYC.

While, sadly, there are no stables in Manhattan, you can go horseback riding in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. If that's not enough animal fun for your kid, consider booking an overnight at one of these local farms, and find more animal fun in our Guide to Family-Friendly Farms and Pick-Your-Own Fun near NYC.

There are so many things to do in Ventura with kids; there are family-friendly activities and entertainment as far as the coastline stretches. Ventura has remained refreshingly authentic with a small selection of places to eat, beaches framed by privately owned houses, grassy parks, and tasteful walkways. Pile the kids in the car, and head up the 101 to this happy little spot—you won't regret it.

Looking for more day trips from LA? Keep driving up the coast to check out Santa Barbara, or browse our ultimate beach guide to find plenty of sandy spots for your family. 

Visiting Ogunquit, Maine with kids is great. Really, really great. Only 75 miles north of Boston and arond 150 miles from Hartford, Ogunquit has been drawing artists and sunbathers to its shore for  Blibbidy-three decades. Things to do in Ogunquit run the gammut from fun in the sun to cool museums and nearby amusement parks. And Ogunquits open-minded, open-hearted spirit makes all travelers feel welcome, including families with kids. 

For more tips on getting away with the family, see our picks for Gorgeous New England Islands for Family Getaways. And check out our U.S. Travel Guides for expert tips on where (and even how) to travel as a family!

The Outer Banks, NC is a favorite summer getaway for DC families that's well worth the six-hour drive. The Outer Banks (also referred to as the OBX) is a series of beautiful barrier islands, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the calm Pamlico Sound on the other. My family has been traveling to the Outer Banks every summer for over 40 years, and it’s the perfect laid-back family vacation. From the gorgeous beaches to the amazing wildlife (sea turtles and dolphins!), fresh seafood, and fun activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy at a wide range of prices.

Here are 25 great things to do with kids in the OBX, including water sports, lighthouses, and delicious local seafood restaurants. For other great family vacations at beaches near DC, check out our list of family-friendly beaches near DC, including our guides to Virginia Beach and the Delaware beaches.

Philadelphia beer gardens are popping up just about everywhere. With delicious brews and cocktails alongside yard games and kid-friendly spaces, these spots are a perfect match for families looking to get out without paying for a babysitter. There are lots of great family-friendly (and pet-friendly!) beer gardens in and around the city that are perfect for a relaxing weekend.

If you're heading to a Fishtown beer garden, check out our recommendations for Things to Do in Fishtown with Kids. Looking for more ways to get outside? Check out the Best Playgrounds in Philadelphia for All Day Play or take a look at our Outdoor Activity Guide.

South Padre Island brings ultimate family fun and a taste of the tropics without ever leaving Texas. Roughly six hours south of Houston, this coastal getaway is worth the drive with its 34 miles of white-sand beaches, gorgeous Gulf Coast waters, and tons of activities the whole family can enjoy. We've rounded up the 20 best things to do in South Padre Island with the kids, from boardwalk trails and rocket launches to pirate boating adventures, museums visits, and more. And to make planning your vacation a breeze, we've also scouted out the top family-friendly resorts and restaurants you won't want to miss. 

Looking for beachy fun that's closer to home? Browse our guide to Galveston for the best things to do there with children in tow. If you're hoping for more weekend excursions that are easy to pull off from H-Town, check out our Houston Getaways Guide. Or, if you're planning a big family vacation and need some destination ideas, give our Family Travel Guide a look for top family destinations across the US. 

Looking for something fun and free to do in Miami with your kids this summer? Here's a list of awesome FREE things to do in Miami and South Florida sure to put smiles on everyone's faces. Whether it is a family summer concert or a must-see Miami festival, there are great options for free things to do in Miami and South Florida.

Get more ideas to have a fun summer break with our Ultimate Miami Kids Summer Vacation Guide, filled with awesome summer activities and events sure to entertain any kid!