Kid-Approved Rooftop Dining: Summer Spots for Families

The Rockaway Hotel's rooftop offers stunning sea and city views. Photo by Kyle Knodell

This summer, head out and up to one of NYC's family-friendly rooftop restaurants for a night out above the town, literally. If you have a hankering for some outdoor dining, there are great options that deliver delicious food and entertainment alongside a great view. You can dine alfresco with the kids in tow from high above the crowded, hot NYC streets at one of these kid-friendly eateries hidden away on rooftops around the city.

Find more family-friendly dining destinations in our NYC Kids' Guide to Restaurants.

The Best Free Swimming Pools in Philly for Families

Enjoy all eight lanes of Kelly Pool. Photo courtesy of Mica Root for phillypublicpools.com

The Department of Parks and Recreation’s outdoor pools, which include more than 60 pools around Philadelphia, offer a combination of open swim, family swim, lessons, and activities. There’s bound to be a wet and wild adventure not too far from home. So pack the towels and sunscreen in a bag, and head out for a dip.

Looking for more water fun this summer? We've got plenty! Check out some of the Best Water Parks Near Philly, or splash around at one of the areas Splash Pads and Water Playgrounds. If you'd like a more relaxing day on the water, you'll love these Swimming Lakes Near Philly.

Wild Animal Sleepover Encounters for Kids Near LA

Pet miniature horses and barnyard horses while staying the night. Photo courtesy of Alisal Ranch in Solvang

Kids in Los Angeles who love animal encounters can take their fun to the next level with a wild animal sleepover experience at these Southern California sleepover animal encounters. 

Kids love a good slumber party—and who doesn’t love s’mores! Throw in a lion or capybara encounter or two, and you’ve got a recipe for an overnight adventure you and your family will talk about for years. From no-frills bring-your-own-tent options to luxury accommodations in a safari tent imported from Botswana, here are some sleepovers at zoos, wild animal parks, and animal sanctuaries near Los Angeles—plus a few that are a little farther away. 

For more animal encounters, discover insider tips to the LA Zoo, ride camels at the Oasis Camel Dairy, and go wild with more animal experiences in our guide to Zoos and Gardens for Los Angeles Kids.  

Steamboat Springs with Kids: 23 Great Things To Do in Steamboat Springs, Colorado (Other than Skiing)

Join Grizzle-T for a 1/2 Day Adventure along a private trail where you learn how to "Mush Your Own Team" of Alaskan Huskies. Photo by the author

When people think of visiting Steamboat Springs, Colorado, it's often for one thing—skiing. And there's no doubt that the skiing in this western mountain town is top-notch. But it turns out Steamboat Springs is not just a winter destination. There are plenty of things to do in Steamboat Springs throughout the year, from hiking to hot springs to, yes, winter activities like snowmobiling and even dogsledding.

Here are 23 top things to do with kids in Steamboat Springs, CO besides skiing, including family-friendly Steamboat Springs restaurants and hotels. Visit our Western US Family Travel Guide for even more adventures out west, from gorgeous national parks like the Grand Canyon to fun cities such as Colorado Springs.

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in Westchester and the Hudson Valley 2025

Watch a fireworks display like you’ve likely never seen before: in the middle of the Hudson River. Photo courtesy of Walkway over the Hudson

The 4th of July is almost here, and fireworks will be lighting up the night sky all over the Hudson Valley. We have rounded up the top spots to watch these holiday sparklers throughout the region on July 4th proper and on the surrounding dates.

Our picks for festivities include the ultra kid-friendly Mamaroneck Fireworks Spectacular and Fireman's Carnival at Harbor Island Park, and Red, White, and Boom at Legoland New York, which features all-day entertainment and a unique fireworks extravaganza in which the fireworks transform into Lego bricks. 

Looking for other great things to do with your kids this season? Check out our Ultimate Westchester and Hudson Valley Kids Summer Vacation Guide, and bookmark our Family Activity Calendar, which is constantly updated.

Where to See 4th of July Fireworks in New Jersey 2025

Willdwood's 4th of July celebration includes a parade, live music, and spectacular fireworks. Photo courtesy of the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority

New Jersey's 4th of July fireworks shows are bigger and brighter than ever. We've got the scoop on where to catch 4th of July fireworks shows in the Garden State, plus other Independence Day activities, from small-town celebrations to waterfront extravaganzas. Many of these festivals round out the fun with food trucks, live music, and children's activities, and all are FREE to attend. 

Firework spectaculars take place on or around the 4th of July weekend. For even more holiday weekend fun, be sure to check out our Activity Calendar and Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide.

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