The Santa Barbara Zoo will entertain kids of all ages with captivating attractions and unforgettable animal encounters. It’s also a picturesque outing not far from the waterfront. It’s so close to the waterfront that you can see the sandy shore and ocean when visiting the giraffes. 

My family and I recently went to this beloved “zoo with a view” for the first time, and we found it spectacular. It’s considered a smaller zoo, yet brims with extraordinary animal sightings. I loved that I didn’t have to walk miles between exhibits. They were close to one another, making it simple and pleasant to stroll around with a small child. Keep reading below for the not-to-miss sights and tips for the Santa Barbara Zoo. 

While in Santa Barbara, explore the best things to do in Santa Barbara with kids. If more zoos are in your future, discover the secrets of the LA Zoo, and our guide to Zoos and Gardens for Los Angeles Kids.

Long Island beaches offer the opportunity for memory-making experiences. Some of the best include time frolicking on the playground to the soundtrack of crashing summer waves. We've rounded up some of the best beach spots with playgrounds in Nassau, Suffolk, and the East End. So pack a lunch and plan to spend the day enjoying these destinations. Make sure to snap pictures of the smiles from a fun day in the sun.

And remember Long Island has plenty of family-friendly beaches. While you're at it, check off a few activities on our list of 25 things we can't wait to do with Long Island kids this summer and see more great ideas in our Ultimate Long Island Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

Milford, CT, known as 'a small city with a big heart,’ is located at the Southern tip of New Haven County. Milford offers a small town vibe with plenty of New England appeal. From Hotchkiss Bridge for the best waterfall views, to the Sundae House for a an upside down banana split, Milford has so much to offer. A community designed for families, this town is quick to show its big heart. Here's our list of the top 25 things to do with kids in Milford!

For more great family fun in New Haven County and all over Connecticut, check out our 100 Things To Do in Connecticut Before Kids Grow Up.

Greater Boston has so many great parks and playgrounds for kids birthday parties If your child was born in late spring, summer, or early fall, hosting their birthday party at a local park or playground is an easy, fun, and super-affordable option. Fortunately, there are a number of green spaces from Waltham to the waterfront where kids parties' are possible. The best part of all? Most are free (or nearly free). Just be sure to call or email each park in advance to reserve a spot to spread out (if necessary) and find out what kind of food and extras—like bounce houses or live entertainment—are allowed.

For more celebration ideas, see our Birthday Party Guide for Boston Kids. And our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds in Boston is full of our expert picks for the best of outdoor fun!

The DC area's fantastic parks and playgrounds are some of the best places to host outdoor kids' birthday parties. Playgrounds are inexpensive, they offer built-in entertainment like swings and play structures, and some even have extra summertime features such as carousels and splash pads. And, most parks and playgrounds offer shaded picnic shelters and other covered areas where guests can enjoy pizza, cake, and other treats after play time.

Here are 14 of the best parks and playgrounds in DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia for kids' birthday parties. Check out our Guide to Playgrounds & Parks in Washington, DC to find the best tot lots and toddler playgrounds near DC, great parks with beaches, and more awesome places for outdoor fun.

Bowling is one of those activities that's perfect in every season. Whether you're looking for an awesome birthday party venue, or just something to on a lazy Sunday afternoon, there are plenty of bowling alleys to choose from in the area.

To make bowling a bit easier for little kids to play, most bowling alleys have ramps that little ones can use to ready the ball before pushing it down, light balls that are easier to carry for kids, and bumpers to make sure that every ball a kid (or adult) throws doesn't end up in the gutter. Add some pizza and soda, and it's a perfect afternoon. 

For more great birthday party ideas, check out our Birthday Party Guide for Philly Kids. Looking for more indoor fun? Our Indoor Play Spaces & Fun Zone Guide has everything you need to have a great day indoors.

Jump in the car, pack some travel games, and enjoy fabulous day trips from Miami! There are amazing cities and gorgeous destinations within a three-hour drive of Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach that allow families to have fun together...and make it home in time to sleep in their own beds the same night.

Check out some of our favorite day trips from Miami and South Florida perfect for kid-friendly experiences. Children and parents will love spending an exciting day together without worrying about overnight lodging and exhausting flights. Happy travels!

Bounce house rentals and other companies that come to you are sure to elevate your Westchester or Hudson Valley birthday bash. Whether you're planning a birthday party involving 15 guests who are all toddlers, a smaller celebration for your pre-teen, or hosting an end-of-summer get-together, these companies will make the big day one to remember.

Options range from blow-up bounce houses and slides to video game trucks and baking competitions, so read on for all the creative options available. 

For additional at-home entertainers in the Westchester area, check out our post here, and find more bday inspo in our Kids' Birthday Party Guide for Westchester & Hudson Valley.