Long Island is definitely an expensive place to live, so when parents find ways to save money on their kids’ activities and experiences (or even better, do them for free), we jump at it. But there are a few things to do this summer that are worth that extra splurge. And for more ideas on what to do before school is back in session, check out our Summer Fun Guide.

When we near the Fall Classic, it means baseball season will be over for the year, and parents and kids look for ways to keep their head in the game. Luckily, New Jersey kids have more than a few options when it comes to playing baseball and softball during the cold winter months. We've put together a list of great New Jersey baseball schools that offer indoor lessons, leagues and clinics all year long. For even more fun indoor activities be sure to check out our Indoor Play and Activity Guide.

When you’re looking for a fun, inexpensive family outing, or even a play date, miniature golf is a great option. The activity encourages physical activity, stimulates conversation, improves hand-eye coordination, entices some friendly competition, and offers the opportunity for spending quality time with friends and family. Many courses in the Hartford area feature beautiful settings and have added features, like ice cream parlors or snacks, if you work up an appetite while playing. 

Today's kids lead busy lives; from school to sports to playdates, practically every moment of the school year is scheduled. So when summer finally rolls around, we can't think of a better way to take advantage of the downtime than to play together as a family—for free! Premium passes to Disneyland may not be in the cards for everyone, but there are still plenty of ways to stave off boredom in Orange County this summer.

From outdoor movies to free bowling to concerts at the park, The OC has plenty of ways to keep kids entertained, all without spending a dime. Here are 20 of our favorites.

The late great James Brown once said “The one thing that can solve most of our problems is dancing.” From tap to jazz; ballet to funk; dance lessons are a wonderful way to express emotion while learning new skills. For those looking a bit outside of the "kids' dance class" box, ballroom dancing is a unique option that teaches children to respect one another and work together as partners. And don't forget to check out our Enrichment Programs, Classes and Activities Guide for NJ Kids!

Parenting in Philadelphia is pretty awesome. With access to so many free places to take our kids, expose them to new learning activities, or just have a great time, its no wonder we have more than 100 places to check off our parenting bucket list! But sometimes it's fun to spend a little and try something new and amazing. Whether it's a special occasion to celebrate, or a special memory you can't wait to create, there are a number of options in and around Philadelphia that are really worth the cost. Here are our picks of some you might want to add to your "worth it" parenting bucket list!

NYC's FREE summer concert season comes to its annual close in August, but it goes out with a bang. We've rounded up more nearly two dozen no-cost shows for families and kids that are worth the time, energy, and travel.

Since most of these performances take place in parks and playgrounds, you can make a day of it by packing a picnic and soaking up some complimentary culture.

A popular Poconos resort's water park, Camelbeach Mountain Waterpark, opened a new toddler and preschooler outdoor attraction this summer, Mummy’s Oasis. It's a fun-themed kids zone for those 48 inches and under and definitely a great place to park your family to cool off. It's one of the reasons we added this Poconos attraction to our list of best water parks near NYC for toddlers.

We visited earlier this summer and have the scoop on the dumping buckets, mini water slides, and more. Check out the NYC Beaches, Pools and Water Parks Guide for more splashing fun or our roundup on 15 Awesome New Jersey Water Parks.