Big, splashy, and downright fantastic playgrounds and parks abound in Boston, and they're the cornerstone of spring and summer fun around town. But sometimes you need a rec space where mayhem is at a minimum, and keeping track of your kid doesn't feel like a "Where's Waldo" challenge. If you’re looking for a playground that won’t be packed with children (and their parents), you’re in luck! Here’s a list of seven local playgrounds where you and your kids might be able to frolic in (relative) peace and quiet.

What better way to get kids interested in nature and doing their part for the planet than with a variety of fun and educational activities in honor of Earth Day? This year, celebrations take place throughout the month of April and include everything from all-day festivals to a movie screening and creating one-of-a-kind crafts from recycled materials. The best part: They’re all free or inexpensive! 

Be sure to check out our Event Calendar for even more activities for Westchester families and follow us on Facebook.

From scaling rock walls to zipping down those twirly slides, what kid doesn't love to swing, slide and climb at playground? And, with so many great options right in Fairfield County, we thought we'd zero in on some of our favorites for you to check out with your family. And, be sure to check out our list of Ten top Playgrounds in the Hartford Area. 

Long before my kids laid eyes on Pixar movies, they were obsessed with cars. Big ones, little ones, toy ones—as long as they were fast and sleek, they'd want to play with them or, better yet, ride in them.

Growing up as public-transit-taking New Yorkers also means a healthy obsession with trains. So no matter the mode of transportation that piques your kid's interest, we've got a party recommendation for you. We've rounded up seven party places in or near NYC where kids can enjoy car- and train-centric activities, from driving go-karts, calling all aboard on a vintage train, and even slot-car racing. Best of all, there's no driver's license required.

New Yorkers often bemoan rapid changes to old-school spots such as Coney Island, where recent "upgrades" seem to have wiped away the grit and charm of old Gotham. Anyone who yearns for the New York of yesteryear needs to head directly to Playland in Rye, New York. Somehow, the amusement park in southern Westchester, in operation since 1928, has managed to revitalize itself with modern standards while maintaining the original charm of the last century. It’s among the most underrated gems for summer fun in the area.

If there's one thing that I've come to appreciate as a native Houstonian, it's that there is no shortage of rich and varied cultural experiences waiting around every corner. One solid example of this is the Sam Houston Boat Tour, which takes passengers on a FREE 90-minute guided tour of the Houston Ship Channel. I took this tour several years ago with my husband and parents and was eager to take my transportation-obsessed son when the opportunity arose.