Our Epic Summer Bucket List of Things To Do on Long Island with Kids

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Cool down with the family this summer at Calverton's Splish Splash Water Park. Photo courtesy of the park

There's no shortage of incredible things to do all summer on Long Island.

From swimming at beautiful beaches to taking a family-friendly road trip to the East End or exploring Long Island's many excellent parks and playgrounds, you shouldn't have to hear the words “I’m bored!” from your kids this epic summer. To help your family get the most out of this season, we’ve put together this list of 35 summer activities we can’t wait to do on Long Island.

Be sure to bookmark our Ultimate Long Island Summer Vacation Guide for plenty of other things to do.

Guide to Visiting Island Waterpark in Atlantic City with Kids

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Island Waterpark, at Atlantic City's Showboat Hotel, boasts 11 waterslides and four restaurants. Photo courtesy of the park

Atlantic City's new Island Waterpark at the Showboat Hotel opened in summer 2023, and this new indoor water park is quickly becoming a family fan favorite. 

Featuring 11 water slides, four restaurants, and access to the "world's largest arcade," it's easy to see why!

Here's everything you need to know about the ins and outs—and slips and slides—of this super kid-friendly water attraction in Atlantic City. Find tons more entertaining options in our Jersey Shore Family Guide.

16 Great Spraygrounds and Splash Pads in Atlanta for Kids

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Head to City Springs City Green for a romp through the refreshing splash pad. Photo courtesy of City Greene

As this summer proves to be another hot one, let kids frolic in an Atlanta splash pad, sprayground, and fountain. Splash pads allow kids to be physically active, interact with others, and spend time outdoors. They even appeal to those toddlers anxious about large swimming pools. Put these budget-friendly (and some even FREE) splash pads in Atlanta on your summer bucket list.

Colorful Pride Celebrations in NYC for Families

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Celebrate Pride at events across NYC! Photo by Walter Wlodarczyk/NYC Tourism + Conventions

Pride marches into New York City each June, bringing with it tons of family-friendly Pride events, including parades, picnics, concerts, and more.

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+ or as an ally, the annual June celebration of Pride in NYC is a glorious mishmash of divine fun. From Paws for Pride to the Pride Family Picnic at St. John the Divine, Rainbows on the Hudson, and PrideFest at Astor Plaza, NYC sparkles with inclusion and community. 

30 Summer Day Trips from New Jersey for Families

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Take a hike or visit the nature center at Rancocas Nature Center this summer. Photo by Lisa Warden

Whether you have major travel plans this summer or just need a summer day trip from New Jersey to mix up your routine, road trips rock. These 30 summer day trips from New Jersey minimize the drive time and maximize the fun for families.

Gather fresh fruit at a pick-your-own farm, go swimming at a lake, hit the Jersey Shore's beaches and boardwalks, visit an amusement park, or maybe try something new off the beaten path. So pack your day bag and get ready to hit the road to one of our favorite summer day trips from New Jersey.

Need more inspiration? Check out our Summer Fun Guide for NJ Kids for even more ideas for family fun.

25 Best Things To Do on Father's Day in NYC

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Hop a ferry to Governors Island to enjoy all the attractions, including public art, food, performances, more fun. Photo by Diana Kim

If you're looking for things to do on Father's Day in NYC, you've come to the right place. This year, Father's Day falls on Sunday, June 16, and it's time to start scheming how to celebrate the dads, grandpas, and father figures in our lives. We've found 25 kid-and-dad-approved things to do in NYC that are sure your make Father's Day extra special.

If you're thinking about taking the Father's Day party outside the city, peruse our Guide to Day Trips or our Theme Parks Guide for more fun ideas.

Best Family Fun Summer Vacations for 2024

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These family-friendly Marriott hotels and resorts are packed with on-site water parks, kids camps, oceanfront rooms, and more top-notch amenities.

Where should we go on vacation this summer? Whether you’re beach lovers, theme park goers, or outdoor adventurers, we’ve got the hottest summer spots for a family vacation, plus the best places to stay for an array of budgets—family-friendly hotels and resorts packed with on-site water parks, kids camps, oceanfront rooms, and more top-notch amenities.

We’ve partnered with Marriott Bonvoy, the free loyalty program that helps you earn rewards and get the best rates and benefits when you stay at any of their hotels, resorts, and villas across the globe. Choose from 10,000 properties from more than 30 hotel brands, designed to fit every traveler’s budget. Become a Marriott Bonvoy Member for free.

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