The Best Playgrounds in Los Angeles: They’re Even Worth Crossing the 405

Vincent Lugo Park, also called Dinosaur or Monster Park, was nominated to the California Register of Historic Places. Photo courtesy of the City of San Gabriel

Playgrounds in Los Angeles provide endless entertainment for kids of all ages. Remember the days of busted swings and boring slides? Well, kids growing up in LA will never have those memories; the best playgrounds in Los Angeles (which are open again, hallelujah) are bastions of play and creativity for kids of all ages and abilities.

These LA playgrounds feature rocket ships and pirate ships, fire trucks and trains, sea creatures, and more. There are climbing structures, sand pits, thrilling ziplines, and playgrounds that honor the original inhabitants of the land. While the neighborhood playground is great for every day use, sometimes cooped-up kids need something new. And these playgrounds have the ultimate accolade: they're worth crossing the 405!

For more playground inspiration, check our guide to LA's top parks and playgrounds, or our list of the best beach playgrounds in Los Angeles and Orange County

21 Must-Try Ice Cream Shops Near DC for a Cold Treat

Cool off with some of the DC area's best ice cream! Photo by Kelly Patino, courtesy of Mommy Poppins.

Though summer in the DC area can be hot and sticky, there are plenty of fun ways to beat the heat—including a plethora of delicious ice cream shops near DC that are sure so satisfy any sweet tooth. And while we've got plenty of love for the nationwide ice cream chains, sometimes you just want to go somewhere more local and special.

Read on for our list of 21 great ice cream shops near DC, many of which are near other attractions like parks and playgrounds. Some of them stick with what they do best (ice cream), while others offer extra goodies such as cookies and cakes.

For more great ways to keep cool this summer—including our lists of outdoor water parks and free public swimming pools near DC—check out our Summer Activities Guide for DC Kids.

Best Ice Cream Spots in Atlanta for Kids

Ice cream never fails to put a smile on kids' faces! Photo by the author

Who wants ice cream? Everybody, especially in the summer! Fortunately, we have no shortage of ice cream near Atlanta. We've got all the big ice cream chains, but we especially love local ice cream spots—these ice cream parlors are the ones that really hit the sweet spot. It was a tough job, researching and tasting various flavors and styles of ice cream near Atlanta, but somebody had to do it! Read on for the "scoop" on the yummiest ice cream spots near Atlanta, including local mobile ice cream and popsicle stands. 

Best Summer Fairs and Festivals in New Jersey July 2025

The Ocean County Fair has live music, animal acts, rides, and classic fair food. Photo courtesy of the fair

Looking for the best July fairs and festivals for New Jersey families? Here are some great options to add to your list.

Soak up the sun and take in the summery sights at family-friendly summer fairs and festivals throughout New Jersey this month, including the 87th Annual Warren County Farmers’ Fair and Hot Air Balloon Festival, featuring rides, entertainment, and children's activities. Plus, lots of county fairs offer good, old-fashioned fun in July—swing by events in Ocean and Monmouth counties, among others.

Read on for more info on the great New Jersey fairs and festivals happening in July. 

Discover Westchester & the Hudson Valley's Coolest New Experiences that Have Families Raving!

Tig + Me is a play space where little ones can leap into adventure and stretch their imaginations. Photo courtesy of Tig + Me

Hudson Valley families have their standbys. Whether it's their favorite park, river town, or farmers market, there's always a fallback and fun activity to do.

When we say trendy, we mean shake it off and try something new. From alpacas to onigiri, there is so much in our area to explore that is new, unique, and off the beaten path. Check out our list of fun new options below. 

Our Guide to News and Openings in the region will help you keep your finger on the pulse of noteworthy new activities, and be sure to look at our constantly updated Activity Calendar for great things to do every day. 

Discover the Coolest New Experiences on Long Island that Have Families Raving!

Splish Splash Water Park, New York's largest water park opened for the season and brought with it a brand-new attraction: a water playground named Stingray Bay. Photo courtesy Splish Splash!

Long Island is full of trendy experiences kids will love. From neon-themed nights at the water park to interactive dinosaur exhibits at the museum to new roller coaster action, there's something fun for every age to experience. 

These unique things to do with kids on Long Island this summer will create Instagram-worthy, memorable moments for the whole family. Read ahead for all the details, and for even more things to do on LI this summer, check out our Long Island Kids Summer Guide and our 2025 Epic Bucket List of Things To Do on Long Island with Kids

Best Family-Friendly Street Fairs and Summer Festivals in NYC July 2025

Ballet Folklórico Mexicano de Nueva York leads a celebration of Mexican culture in  Socrates Sculpture Park during Guelaguetza. Photo by Bob Krasner

We're entering peak season for the family-friendly festivals that pop up all over NYC all summer long. Our list of fun summer festivals for kids in July 2025 includes annual favorites like City of Water Day and the blocks-long Bastille Day, plus little-kid picks like Sprinkler Day at Asphalt Green.

From Riveride Park's Goatham to MoMath's Math Fest and the Poetry Festival on Governors Island, there's no shortage of extraordinary festivities for NYC families in July.

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