Mommy-and-Me Classes in the Hudson Valley for Kids and Babies

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Moon River Mother and Child offers a variety of parent-and-me music classes that get the whole family grooving. Photo courtesy of Moon River Mother and Child

Mommy-and-me classes are a great way to bond with your child while developing their socialization skills and learning something new. Plus, it's an excuse to get out of the house, meet new friends, and shake up your daily routine.

We've rounded up 14 mommy-and-me classes offered in the Hudson Valley, ranging from parent-child music classes to mommy-and-me soccer and family yoga classes. 

For even more after-school programs, check out our full Classes Guide for Westchester & Hudson Valley Kids and our Back to School Guide. 

Story Land, NH: Amusement Park Fun for Young Kids

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With classic rides and kid-friendly fun, Story Land in New Hampshire has been welcoming families for generations. Photo courtesy of Story Land in New Hampshire

New Hampshire's Story Land is ideal for families with small children. Amuseument parks are a big thrill for kids; but for younger ones, they can gat a little intense too. Nestled in the White Mountains of New Hampshire, Story Land was created more than 60 years ago to simulate a storybook village where the characters have come to life. It's grown to include more than 30 rides (including the "Roar-O-Saurus" roller coaster) and splashy stage shows with fairy-taler characters.

Story Land maintains a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere geared to kids 2 to 12 years old, appealing to preschoolers but offering plenty for the grade-school kiddos. The park is only 2.5 hours from Boston (take that, Disney!), and Story Land tickets are a fraction of the admission price of most amusement parks. Read on for tips on a Story Land trip...with a little planning, it's possible you'll be just as enchanted as the kids.

The 20 Most Insane, Must-Try Desserts in NYC

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Indulge in the over-the-top milkshakes at Black Tap. Photo courtesy of the shop

When it comes to the best desserts in NYC, we couldn't help but wonder: Are they just eye candy? We headed out with a gaggle of kids to test the best, most amazingly outrageous desserts in New York City to discover which lived up to the hype. Below is the crème de la crème of over-the-top treats and desserts in NYC.

These delicious NYC desserts are all perfect for a special outing with kids or some bonding time. So get ready to wow your kids with the most awesome sweets in NYC.

Find more of our top NYC eats in our Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide, which includes everything from our picks for the best pizza in NYC to the most iconic, must-visit NYC restaurants, and more.

Brightline Train to Debut in Orlando: Fun on the Tracks

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All aboard the new Brightline Orlando train for a fun way to travel through Florida! Photo courtesy of Brightline

The City of Orlando, already renowned for its world-class theme parks and attractions, has added a new gem: Brightline Train. Florida's high-speed rail system, known for its seamless travel experience, is extending its tracks to Orlando and promises families a fun, convenient way to explore the Sunshine State. Whether you're a local resident seeking a weekend adventure or a vacationing family looking to elevate your trip, Brightline Train Florida offers a unique opportunity to embark on a stress-free adventure.

Reclining Liberty Statue Comes to the DC Area — and Kids Can Climb and Touch It!

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Kids are allowed—and even encouraged—to touch Reclining Liberty. Photo courtesy of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Arlington

Lady Liberty has come to the DC area—well, sort of. Reclining Liberty, a 25-foot sculpture modeled after the Statue of Liberty in New York City, was installed on the front lawn of the Museum of Contemporary Art (MoCA) Arlington in Virginia on August 3, 2023. The statue, made by sculptor Zaq Landsberg, depicts Lady Liberty lying on her side with her head resting on one hand.

Reclining Liberty was originally installed in NYC's Morningside Park in 2021, then moved to Liberty State Park in 2022. It will remain on view at MoCA Arlington until July 28, 2024.

For more information about museums and exhibitions in the DC area, visit our DC Museum Guide for Kids and Families.

Ultimate Archery Review: Family-Friendly Archery Dodgeball in NJ

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Ultimate Archery is a great experience for families looking to have some fun together!

If you've never heard of Ultimate Archery, you're in for a treat. Featuring soft, marshmallowy tipped arrows and inflatable hideouts, this intensely fun game is the perfect opportunity for some unique, full family bonding. The kids will blow off some energy, you'll get a great workout in, and everyone will sleep in the next day! Ultimate Archery is located in Maple Shade, NJ and is ideal for kids ages 7 and up, though my 6 year old was able to play too.

Looking for more extreme fun? Check out our list of Extreme Sports and Thrilling Activities for Philly Kids or visit our Play Gyms and Sports Center Guide.

NEW Babylist Flagship Showroom Opens in Beverly Hills

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Place a car seat in a life-size vehicle at the Babylist Store.

Oh, baby! The new Babylist Flagship Showroom in Beverly Hills is more than just a quick trip to grab last-minute items from your ever-growing list before baby arrives. The showroom is an immersive experience to share with spouses, future grandparents, cool aunts, and friends.  

Just like bringing a bridal party along to say yes to the wedding dress, the Babylist showroom is an interactive outing. It aims for expectant parents to personally see, feel, and test out items for their soon-to-arrive cherub as they build their baby registry (on Babylist, of course). Read on to learn what to expect, what you can play with, and if you should bring your kids with you to the Babylist showroom...

For more baby preparation, see the best pregnancy and parenting classes in Los Angeles, and plan out all the essential things to do with Los Angeles babies before they turn one. There's even more baby planning resources in our Los Angeles Baby Guide for Parents. 

Historic Sites on Long Island Kids Love

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Kids can experience 19th-century village life at Old Bethpage Village Restoration. Photo by Kenny Arena/courtesy of the museum

History is plentiful here on Long Island, from the oldest lighthouse in New York, the Montauk Point Lighthouse, to Teddy Roosevelt's digs at Sagamore Hill. Famous residents have included poets, presidents, and captains of industry.

This all adds up to an impressive roster of historic sites, many of which offer great photo opportunities and fun for kids–read on for our top picks. 

For more educational and historic places to explore on Long Island, check out our Museums and Art Guide for Long Island Kids.

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