Best Surf Schools for Surfing Lessons on Long Island

Submitted by Jennifer Voit on

Learn to ride the waves with Skudin Surf in Long Beach. Photo by Jay Belsky

Surfing lessons are about embracing what summer on Long Island is all about–sun, sand, and catching waves at the beach. Surf schools from Nassau County to the East End offer epic experiences that ocean-loving kids will love. Aspiring young surfers can conquer the waves with surf lessons and learn invaluable water safety skills. So get ready for your little ones to hang ten like the pros. 

We rounded up a list of the best surf schools and surf camps Long Island has to offer for kids. For other kid-friendly, seasonal fun check out our Ultimate Long Island Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

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4th of July Fireworks on the National Mall: Best Spots to Watch the DC Fireworks

Submitted by Christine Mooney on

4th of July fireworks look stunning against the Washington Monument. Photo by Anthony Quintano via Flickr CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Nothing says Independence Day like watching the 4th of July fireworks light up the night sky above the iconic memorials and monuments of Washington, DC. It's a sight many families are excited to check off their summer fun list, and that means viewing spots tend to get pretty crowded. Luckily, we have some ideas to help you navigate safely and get great views of the DC fireworks this year.

While it might pay to grab tickets to a family-friendly river cruise for the evening, you don't need to spend a dime to see the DC 4th of July fireworks in person. You just need to know where—and when—to go and what you might want to bring to make the most out of the evening.

Don't forget to check out our event calendar for a whole host of Independence Day celebrations throughout DC, Northern Virginia, and MD during the first week of July. Happy 4th of July!

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks and Drone Shows in Chicago 2024

Submitted by Maureen Wilkey on

Chicago Navy Pier fireworks. Photo by Nick Ulivieri Photography, courtesy of the Pier.

Fourth of July fireworks in Chicago are a hallmark of summer. Independence Day is on a Thursday this year; some spots will have their Fourth of July fireworks on July 3rd or July 5th—and some places have fireworks displays even earlier. Those late to the party can also see post-4th fireworks at Navy Pier on July 6th. New this year is a drone light show at Northwest Fourth Fest in Hoffman Estates—a great way to see the sky light up without the big booms. 

From the beaches to the parks to the lake, these are the best places to view fireworks in Chicago for the Fourth of July weekend. In addition to seeing some super sparklers, consider celebrating the holiday with one of these Fourth of July activities that aren't fireworks.

Where To See 4th of July Fireworks & Drone Shows in Atlanta 2024: More Atlanta July 4th Parades and Events

Elsa Simcik's picture Submitted by Elsa Simcik on

Fireworks light up the night sky at Callaway Gardens. Photo courtesy of the gardens

Enjoy spectacular 4th of July fireworks displays in Atlanta for a memorable . Practically every Atlanta suburb and intown neighborhood is putting on its own July 4th fireworks display, festival, and parade. Folks can also celebrate at Atlanta attractions like Stone Mountain Park (including a drone show!) and Margaritaville at Lanier Islands. Most of the patriotic parties in Atlanta will take place on Thursday, July 4th, including Atlanta's internationally known AJC Peachtree Road Race! 

Read on for all the details about the best Fourth of July fireworks displays and events in Atlanta and find even more ways to make memories in our Ultimate Atlanta Kids Summer Vacation Guide. 

Free San Francisco Summer Concerts and Outdoor Music Festivals for Families

Submitted by Sandra Lee on

Eat and dance at the Live Music Lunch Series at Thrive City. Photo courtesy of the Chase Center.

We've rounded up a host of FREE San Francisco summer outdoor concerts ideal for kids and families, so all parents need to do is grab some lawn chairs or a picnic blanket. From lively parks to scenic waterfronts, these events are set in some of the most iconic locations across San Francisco and the Bay Area. Whether you're into jazz, rock, classical, or world music, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Our Ultimate San Francisco Kids Summer Vacation Guide offers tons more ideas for getting the best out of the warm-weather months. Enjoy!

Be sure to check back often, because we continue adding and updating concerts throughout the season!

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in Orlando 2024: More Orlando July 4th Parades and Events

Submitted by Charlotte B on

Fireworks light up the night sky at Fireworks at the Fountain. Photo courtesy of the City of Orlando

4th of July events in Orlando are just around the corner, and we're so excited to celebrate Independence Day 2024! From the best Fourth of July fireworks displays in Orlando (at theme parks and beyond) to patriotic Orlando July 4th parades, we’ve rounded up more than 30 fun-filled 4th of July events in Orlando and Central Florida.

Other things to do during Fourth of July weekend in Orlando include a summer trip to a nearby beach, visiting local natural springs, or spending a day on the water aboard kid-friendly boat trips. Whatever you choose, we hope you and your family have a safe and happy Fourth of July!

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