The Coolest New Stuff for Families in NYC Metro Area – Our 2023 Review

The American Museum of Natural History debuted the Gilder Center last spring. Photo by Jody Mercier

'Tis the season for celebrations and year-in-review stories, and the Mommy Poppins team is toasting these 17 family-friendly 2023 openings. From a wet-and-wild playground at Legoland New York to AMNH's expansive museum expansion with the Gilder Center and plenty more fun places for family playtime, 2023 brought a ton of new kid-friendly attractions for our readers to enjoy in New York City, New Jersey, Long Island, Westchester and the Hudson Valley, and beyond.

We can't wait to see what 2024 has in store—and thank you, our dear readers, for following along this year. Cheers to you—and another year of bringing you the best things to do with kids.

Houston Crown Jewel Hermann Park is Getting an Awesome Revamp

Hermann Park's update includes a new 2-acre play space aimed at kids. Photo by Lifted Up Aerial Photography courtesy of the Hermann Park Conservancy

The new year is bringing an exciting update to Hermann Park, one of Houston’s favorite spaces. Slated to open in January 2024, the $52 million Hermann Park update will bring kid-friendly improvements to a park that's already beloved for its lush green spaces. 

A day with the kids at Hermann Park has always been filled with fun activities like feeding ducks and pedal boating around the lake, museum hopping, picnicking, and rolling down grassy hills. Thanks to the refresh, the city’s iconic park is about to be even better for visiting families with the addition of The Commons at Hermann Park, which boasts several new spaces aimed at kids.  

If you're a Hermann Park first-timer, be sure to browse our Beginner’s Guide to Exploring Hermann Park before you head that way.

12 Winter Festivals for Philly Families: Fire and Ice, Maple Sugaring, and More

Enjoy ice carving demonstrations and lights galore at Fire & Frost Fun at Peddler's Village. Photo courtesy of Peddler's Village

Before cold winds, freezing temperatures, and shorter days lead to the wintertime blues, Philly families can enjoy some of the many amazing winter festivals to keep spirits high while we await warmer weather. We've rounded up some of our favorite festivals held in the area this time of year. So, bundle up and browse through our list to find the perfect festival for your family to enjoy this winter season.

If you're looking for more seasonal fun, check out our roundup of nearby snow tubing spots, or visit our Winter Activity Guide.

Orlando Solar Bears Hockey with Kids: Literally the Coolest Game in Orlando

Kids LOVE the Orlando Solar Bears games for the action on the ice and fun in the arena.

Attend an Orlando Solar Bears hockey game for a fun, family experience in Orlando. The combination of fast-paced action on the ice, a lively atmosphere, affordable tickets, and a family-friendly environment make it an ideal outing for kids of all ages. Our Orlando family of five loves cheering on the Solar Bears each season! We've gathered everything you need to know about attending a Solar Bears game with your family. So gear up, grab your tickets, and get ready for a fun day of hockey action with the Orlando Solar Bears.

Children's Museum of Atlanta: Growing Creative, Inspired Minds

The Children's Museum of Atlanta welcomes young children to explore their world and unleash their creativity. Photo courtesy of the museum

Situated in bustling downtown Atlanta, the Children's Museum of Atlanta offers local and visiting families a chance to discover the wonder of their world. With hands-on exhibits, colorful decor, and a ton of fun, the Children's Museum of Atlanta is the perfect place for curious kids. This Atlanta museum sparks creativity and imagination in every corner of the space, where children ages 8 and under learn through play.

Take a read as we tour the Children's Museum of Atlanta, to share the magic of this beloved Atlanta attraction!

Best of 2023 Los Angeles Kid Edition: Top Openings, Happenings and Other Awesome Stuff

Don't miss the mammoth trolls at South Coast Botanic Garden. Photo courtesy of Thomas Dambo in collaboration with Imagine Exhibitions.

It's time to celebrate kid-friendly openings that were the cream of the crop in Los Angeles in 2023 – yes, it's the annual "best of" season! Mommy Poppins is thrilled to shine a spotlight on the most exciting new attractions and kid-friendly openings that graced LA this past year. These are the latest gems that might have slipped under your radar. 

From new theme park lands to immersive experiences featuring beloved characters like The Cat in the Hat and Bluey, Los Angeles added fantastic options for family fun in 2023. Keep reading below for our exclusive rundown of the best 2023 kid-friendly openings that stepped into the limelight in Los Angeles this year. 

As we eagerly await the new attractions and kid-friendly openings 2024 has in store for Angelenos, catch a glimpse of the events already on our radar for next year by perusing our Calendar of Events in Los Angeles

Lake George’s Newest Winter Wonder: Ice Castles Become Winter Realms and Winter's Dream

Winter Realms is a snow-capped fantasyland on the shores of Lake George. Photo courtesy of the event

Winter in Lake George, NY transforms this picturesque destination into a snowy wonderland, offering a ton of family fun. And this season, Lake George, NY is getting even better as it debuts two new winter immersive experiences: Winter’s Dream and Winter Realms. Both are located in Lake George Village and offer families a way to bring a little light into the darkest months of the year.

So grab your snow pants, put on those mittens, and check out this list of the best things to do in Lake George, NY with kids during the frosty season, including some family-friendly Lake George hotels. See our Guide to Visiting the Adirondacks & Catskills for even more family fun in this beautiful part of the country, including our list of 40 things to do in the Adirondack Mountains with kids.

17 New Year's Eve Fireworks, Balloon Drops, and Other Long Island Celebrations for Kids

The Long Island Children's Museum's New Year's Eve party has themed activities, a ball drop, and a confetti-filled dance party. Photo courtesy LICM

Ring in New Year's Eve with a big, bold bash at one of these Long Island spots hosting events hours earlier than midnight. No matter how old your kids are, there are plenty of family-friendly New Year's Eve events across Long Island to help you welcome 2024. Top picks for New Year's Eve celebrations include roller skatingballoon drops, gaming, and sparkling New Year's Eve fireworks

Here's to a happy and healthy new year, Long Island! 

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