First opened in 1899, the Bronx Zoo has been a top destination for local NYC families, tourists, and animal lovers of all kinds for generations. I've been a regular at this zoo since I was a child, and now that I'm a parent of three kids in the Bronx, we consider it an extension of our backyard.

Located in the heart of the Bronx at the southern end of Bronx Park and near the borough's own Little Italy, the Bronx Zoo is easily accessible via public transit or by car. One visit is sure to leave a lasting impression, though you'll need more than one trip to experience all there is to see and do. And, since it is the nation's largest urban zoo, it helps to have some pointers before you go—especially if you are visiting with kids. So, read on for 13 tips on visiting the Bronx Zoo like a local. You'll find more parent-tested tips for top NYC destinations in our Visitors Guide to New York City. 

Too busy to cook but don't want to break the bank? Kids eat free or cheap at many chain restaurants across the US! Most of these kids eat free deals offer a free entree from the kids menu for children ages 10 or 12 and under with the purchase of an adult entree. Some restaurants offer other deals like half-off or 99-cent kids meals.

Here are 29 chain restaurants where kids can eat free or cheap on one or more days of the week, including the popular IHOP kids eat free and Denny's kids eat free deals.

For more freebies, visit our Guide to Free Activities, Events, Classes, and Camps for Kids. You can also find more kids eat free deals on our list of 64 birthday freebies for kids.

While New Jersey students have an abbreviated November schedule to look forward to, parents are left to figure out things to do to fill those days off. The first holiday falls on Election Day on Tuesday, November 5, followed by NJEA Convention on Thursday, November 7, and Friday, November 8. Some school districts have gone a step further, giving students that entire week off!

Of course, don't forget about Thanksgiving at month's end, when kids have off both Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29; some even have a half-day or no school the Wednesday prior, too. Yikes!

With that in mind, we've pulled together this list of 25 things to do in New Jersey to keep your kids busy during November's school holidays, so read on for our picks for the best staycation ideas this November.

If you are looking for more activities this season, take a peek at our New Jersey Fall Fun Guide. It might also be a good time to check off one or two items on our list of 100 things to do in New Jersey with kids before they grow up.

Queens is NYC's most diverse and action-packed borough, so it's no surprise there are tons of birthday party places in Queens where little New Yorkers can celebrate. In fact, there are so many awesome birthday spots in Queens alone that it deserves a post of its own.

These Queens birthday party places cater to all kinds of kids, from active to artsy to animal lovers. As a Queens mom with two children, I've been to many of these spots personally and can vouch for their fun factor. You can find additional birthday inspiration in our NYC Kids Guide to Birthday Parties.

Horseback riding lessons on Long Island offer kids a unique way to learn an exciting lifelong skill, gain confidence, and have a lot of fun. From pony rides for little ones to weekly lessons and trail rides for older kids, Long Island stables and equestrian centers have various options for beginners to advanced riders. 

Animal-loving kids will have a chance to bond with a beautiful horse or pony and learn how to care for and communicate with their new friends. Kids should dress appropriately for riding lessons. Boots are preferred, and some stables provide helmets at the lessons, while others require you to bring your own.

Read on for our list of the best stables and equestrian centers across Long Island for horseback riding lessons kids will love. For more active adventures, check out our guide to Long Island Family Fun.

Explore our guide to the best neighborhoods in CT for trick-or-treating!

Find the best neighborhood for trick-or-treating this Halloween in Boston!

Planning a family vacation to Europe? Glasgow, Scotland is the perfect place to visit with kids. The Scottish city is one of the world's friendliest destinations and boasts stunning architecture, gorgeous gardens, and plenty of family-friendly activities. From playgrounds and pub lunches to museums and mural trails, there are so many things to do in Glasgow, Scotland.

Here are nearly 50 things to do in Glasgow, Scotland with kids, including the best family-friendly Glasgow hotels and restaurants. Bookmark our European Travel Guide for Families, for more fun cities to visit in Europe, including Paris and Rome.