Set sail this summer for boating, sightseeing, whale watching, marine critter catching, or just a good time out on the water. These Long Island boat tours are ideal for families eager to create nautical adventures and lasting memories.

Here are 18 voyages we think are especially worthwhile. For more seasonal Long Island adventures, check out our Guide to Summer Fun and this list of 25 things we can't wait to do with Long Island kids.

As the so-called "Summer of New York City" approaches, and the city rebounds from the effects of the pandemic, there's still plenty of work to do to ensure all New Yorkers are on an even footing. A lack of access to healthy foods was particularly problematic during the pandemic, and the need persists, but local org Mott Haven Fridge is building a network of FREE fridges all across the Bronx and Upper Manhattan and looking for a few good volunteers to help keep them stocked.

Read on for details on this family-friendly volunteer opportunity, and find more ways to make giving back a part of your summertime routine.

If you have a pet in the family, you know the stress of your cat's mysterious middle-of-the-night tummy troubles or one of those panicked trips to the nearest emergency clinic following a freak sock incident with the dog. Well, the creators of Pawp clearly know that stress too, and they've created a new pet insurance alternative that gives pet parents access to online vet care while also helping to foot the bill if you find yourself in the midst of an emergency.

Of course, pet insurance can be pricey and it still doesn't cover all medical costs, so Pawp set out to eliminate the need for expensive veterinary visits due to issues that can be resolved at home. For $19 a month, the platform gives members instant and unlimited access to a team of on-demand online vets. These experienced cat and dog pros can answer questions about everything from diet woes to skin concerns, and help you determine what issues warrant emergency call-the-babysitter-for-the-kids care and what can probably be taken care of at home. Pawp also offers members a $3,000 emergency fund that can be used at any in-person clinic if the unexpected happens.

For pet-loving families, this one-of-a-kind platform is a game-changer, enabling you to talk to a veterinarian anytime about anything—plus, the perks don't stop there.

The opening of the TWA Hotel has made JFK more than an airport—it's now a destination in its own right. There's the rooftop pool, swanky hotel rooms, trendy restaurants, museums, cool design and architecture, and now, a seasonal outdoor roller skating rink smack in the middle of the tarmac. Riding the roller skating craze that's taken over New York of late, the TWA's new Roll-A-Rama Runway Rink is the perfect way to stretch your legs before getting on your flight or following a long ride on the A train. Read on for the details on this retro-inspired destination. If you're not up for a trip to JFK, we've got the details on more roller skating rinks in the city and nearby 'burbs, too.

Families living near the pretty Nomahegan Park in Cranford, New Jersey, recently gained an exciting new playground. Living just a 15-minute drive away, my family couldn’t wait to check out the new addition to this popular Union County park.

The new playground area includes a separate toddler section, accessible swings and ramp, and a multi-tiered larger playground for ages 5 and up, which is loaded with climbing opportunities, twisty slides, a wobbly bridge, and plenty more to explore. The playground, which opened in late April, replaced a dated, much smaller playground.

The DuPage Children's Museum is once again open to the public and accepting reservations! Since the weather in Chicago can be hit or miss all year round, indoor play options can be lifesavers. The DuPage Children’s Museum is one of my very favorite spots to bring my kids. It's a fun, safe, indoor play space that has some major educational bonus points. With hands-on experiences for kids of all ages, this museum was made for tinkering, exploring, and letting creativity flow. Read on for tips and ideas for how to get the most out of a visit to the DuPage Children’s Museum.