Submitted by Roberta B on
For years we've intended to drive up to Malibu Bluffs Park for the annual Chumash Day Powwow, and every year something seemed to get in the way. At last, this was the year that we got to enjoy the multi-tribe festival that takes place at Malibu's beautiful public park for one weekend every April.
Submitted by Erica Hartman on
This exhibit ended September 7, 2015. Even if your mini paleontologists have memorized every nook and cranny of the American Natural History Museum, you've never experienced dinosaurs quite the way you do at Field Stations: Dinosaurs, the open-air dino spot in Secaucus, New Jersey that opened in 2012. Home to more than 30 animatronic dinosaurs, this educational attraction really lived up to my family's expectations—our two kids were particularly impressed.
Located just nine minutes by train from NYC, the prehistoric-themed park is a great day trip. The park also offers lovely views of the NYC skyline (the T.rex and the Empire State Building make for quite a contrast). We visited on opening day and I’m thrilled to be able to tell you all about this completely unique family adventure.
Submitted by Linda DiProperzio on
Once the warm weather arrives, many families want to spend as much time outdoors as possible. Camping happens to be a wonderful way to enjoy nature, along with some bonding time with the kids. From fishing and swimming, to making s'mores and sleeping under the stars, camping can create memories you'll treasure for years to come (or, at the very least, give you some good stories to tell).
Long Island is home to quite a few prime camping sites, so you don't need to go far to take a family vacation this summer. We've covered many beloved campgrounds in the past (see our roundups of 5 great campgrounds on Long Island and 5 more great campgrounds). But, believe it or not, we've found six more worthy of checking out. Enjoy!
Submitted by Lori McManus on
If you are planning a birthday or fun outing for a young artist, the newest trend in creative parties may be for you. Paint-your-own canvas parties are popping up all over the Delaware Valley, in stand-alone studios and as add-ons in pottery workshops, and a few even come to you. In addition to kids' parties and art classes, many studios also host Girls' Night Out events where moms can bring their own wine and snacks, and channel their inner artist.
We've rounded up a list of paint-your-own studios that offer children's birthday parties and, in many cases, camps, classes and drop-in sessions, too. Party hosts are usually allowed to bring their own food, the studio does all the cleanup and guests leave with their own masterpieces!
Submitted by Erin McNamee on
When you walk into Shady Glen, you feel as if you have stepped back in time to the 1950s. Waitresses wear old-fashioned green dress uniforms with white aprons, and cooks sport pointy paper hats. Kids can slide into booths or spin on the counter stools arranged around a bustling kitchen and soda fountain. This classic burger joint and ice cream shop has been featured on the Travel Channel for its unique cheeseburgers, although it began as a dairy store and scoops are still its main draw. The grub is not fancy, but it is good solid comfort food served in a fun atmosphere. Top it all off with homemade ice cream and this Hartford area classic is a sweet outing to try with kids!
Submitted by Ravelle Worthington on
There's been lots of fun to be had this week, as NYC public schools are on spring break through Sunday, April 12. From new museum exhibits to a contemporary circus spectacular, even this rainy weather couldn't keep us down.
The good news: we should finally get some sun this weekend, which is perfect for a day trip (maybe two!) to Essex County's Annual Cherry Blossom Festival, where families can enjoy live performances and other kid-friendly activities, or a Family Senses Night Hike in nearby Long Island that will give new meaning to the term "night owl." Kids can also enjoy a day of farming and hanging with the chickens, goats and pigs at Common Ground in Connecticut. Also on tap: Nyack's SpringFest, complete with carnival rides, games and over 300 vendors.
If you're starting to think about summer vacation plans, our Travel site has all the details for planning a great family trip to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico!
Here's what else we covered on the NYC site this week:
Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on
Want to know which life forms will exist after the apocalypse? Then head to the American Museum of Natural History for its latest exhibit, Life at the Limits. The installation examines the many unique creatures that thrive in extreme situations, and there are even a couple of live creepy critters on display. I knew my animal-obsessed 10-year-old son was going to love it—and I was right!
Life at the Limits is a real crowd-pleaser that appeals to all ages and is a perfect spring break activity. But don't worry if you can't get there this week; the exhibit runs through January.
Submitted by Sherry Pardy on
Our house is a twin summer birthday house. Everything, times two! Guest list, goodie bags, cakes...everything requires double everything, including planning time. It may be 6 months out, but we're already on the case to find a fabulous birthday party destination near our friends and family in Litchfield County. Here are ten of awesome spots we've found so far. And don't forget to check out our CT Party Guide which also offers some great ideas and options.
