The good news keeps rolling in on our favorite (formerly summer-only) destination: Governors Island is expanding its season through October 31. Last year it closed up for the season in late September, and previously, Labor Day weekend had been its typical closing date.

The news, announced by the Trust for Governors Island on Tuesday, July 18, comes on the heels of the isle opening a month early this spring, meaning the 2017 season now runs a full six months giving visitors a chance to enjoy an entirely new season and more rich programming on the island.

The mega green space is slowly creeping toward its goal of year-round fun. Read on for details of what's in store for its fall programming, including a cool Halloween event that we're sure is going to rocket to the top of every New York family's must-do list for October, plus a pumpkin patch.

When I was a kid, going out for a day of fishing with mom or dad (or one of my grandparents) was such a treat! It usually meant some quality alone time where I could ask all of life's questions, get honest answers, and possibly end the day with an ice cream treat. With a huge variety of fish and well-stocked waters in the region’s lakes, rivers, and streams, there are plenty of great spots to check out for a fun day of bonding over the age old pastime of fishing. Even if you don't get a bite, chances are you will walk away with memories that make it all worthwhile.

Looking for more ways to get outdoors with your little ones? How about a hiking trip, a picnic, an adventure out on the water, or even a little cave exploration?

Hyde Park in Dutchess County—not to be confused with New Hyde Park on Long Island—may be best known as the former home of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, but it boasts many other attractions that make it a fun family day-trip spot.

In addition to FDR, the Vanderbilts also planted roots and left behind a magnificent estate for public viewing. The Culinary Institute of America has a campus in Hyde Park, offering not only instruction but several student-run restaurants. And with its proximity to the Hudson River and other neighboring towns like Rhinebeck and Poughkeepsie, there’s a ton to do.

Read on for our top picks and cost-saving tips for visiting Hyde Park with families, based on first-hand experience! Looking for more family fun? Consult our Event Calendar and follow us on Facebook.

WaterFire just might be the greatest thing that’s ever happened to Providence, Rhode Island. In the 23 years since the first bonfires were lit on the rivers in Providence, the brilliant and moving art installation has helped to transform the city into a vibrant, family-friendly destination.

Part community festival and part art exhibition—complete with bonfires juxtaposed with water, music, arts and crafts vendors, boat rides, and live performances—WaterFire is held on various evenings from late April through early November. And spectators will tell you: It's an event not to be missed. But just like other wonderful, very popular events such as First Night Boston, getting the inside scoop on WaterFire can mean the difference between having a magical evening with the family and a really long night. Here are 25 things to look for and to know before you go—with wisdom learned (sometimes the hard way) from my family’s experience and from the very knowledgeable team at WaterFire. 

This is the season for packing up a cooler and heading outdoors for a meal. From relaxing in nature to grabbing a picnic table next to a bustling playground, there are lots of great picnic spots in the Philly area and beyond. We've rounded up all the best places to eat amongst the flowers when the weather is warm. So grab a basket and a blanket, pack your food (or pick it up on the way), and check out one of these great places to picnic in the area.

Tucked away on the edge of Clear Lake, right inside the Pasadena city limits, is one of the best-kept secrets in southeast Houston. Armand Bayou Nature Center features 2,500 acres of land that boasts miles of trails, vast marshes, and several educational venues that are perfect for families to explore. They offer free admission on the first and third Sunday of each month, giving families the perfect opportunity to explore the center and learn more about the special events and classes available throughout the year.

OMG Date night. That nocturnal necessity designed to keep parents as sane as possible. I don't know about you, but for me, a successful date night involves getting out the door before bedtime. Sure, it's mostly because that way I'm home before my bedtime, but also because once in a while it's really OK to let somebody else read just one more book...a dozen times. Once you've made your escape...now what? It's easy to forget how to fill leisure time when you're a parent. That's why I've rounded up some date night ideas that are more than just dinner and drinks in Fairfield County. This is precious time, use it to step a little outside your comfort zone for some adventure (and then when you're done maybe dinner and drinks...)! So bring on the babysitter, lace up your big kid shoes, and get out there for some well-deserved you time!

As a soon-to-be new mom, one of the things I’m most looking forward to is finding a group of other new moms to bond with. Finding others in a similar stage of parenthood can be a great way to gather support and share advice, especially during those tiring newborn days. Luckily, there are plenty of options to choose from in Boston, no matter what type of group you’re looking for or what neighborhood you live in. And best of all? Most of them are free!