As summer weather sizzles, we're searching for the best things to do to beat the heat in New York City. There's no denying the heat and humidity can get under the skin of even the most tropical-weather-loving New Yorker. To beat the heat, my kids (and my inner child) insist any outing includes water, industrial-strength air conditioning, or a visit to a local ice cream parlor.

While we enjoy hitting NYC's FREE public pools and running around the sprinklers (oh yes, I get in there, too), lately, we've been longing for more diverse destinations to keep kids cool during a heat wave. That inspired us to round up 51 cool places to beat the heat in New York City this summer.

PEPPA PIG x CAMP: An Immersive Adventure is officially open at CAMP Washington, DC at Tysons Corner Center in Virginia! This picture-perfect, 5,000-square-foot experience invites families to step through the Magic Door of the toy store to explore, laugh, and play their way through multiple interactive rooms filled with party prep, dino discoveries, and plenty of giggle-worthy fun.

Read all about what to expect at PEPPA PIG x CAMP. Then find more indoor places to play in our Guide to Indoor Playgrounds, Play Spaces, and More Indoor Fun for Kids in DC.

It's hot! As Philly gets clobbered with yet another a heat wave, this weather is enough to turn even the sweetest kids into total grumps. And while staying in and enjoying your A/C has its perks, sometimes you just need to get out of the house. Fortunately, no matter the weather, there are amazing places to romp and play in the city and the suburbs that can help you keep cool and beat the heat.

Check out our events calendar, and our lists of family-friendly museums and the best indoor play spaces in the Philadelphia area for even more fun, inside and out!

As summer heats up, these cool things to do in Los Angeles will help provide respite from those lasting sun rays. It can be hard to soak up that sun for more than a few minutes when temperatures climb to triple digits. When it's too toasty to play at the park, ride bikes outside, or go for a walk, we've got answers and lots of ideas for cool things to do in Los Angeles. 

From pools and splash pads to bowling alleys and cool museums, we've gathered the best indoor and outdoor activities to beat those summer—or even rare fall or winter—heat waves, as well as those unfortunate smoky haze days. Plus, you can always head to the beach! There are even more cool things to do in Los Angeles this summer in our Ultimate Los Angeles Kids Summer Vacation Guide. 

When it comes to experiencing quintessential New York City, you can’t beat a trip to Central Park. The 843-acre green space in the middle of Manhattan stretches from 110th Street down to 59th Street and from Eighth Avenue to Fifth Avenue. It’s full of opportunities for adventure.

I’ve spent many happy hours enjoying Central Park with my children, and I'm sharing my favorite destinations on this itinerary for a perfect NYC day. These plans are customizable and include ideas to suit all ages.

Discover more activities on our list of the best things to do in Central Park with kids, or explore more of the Big Apple with this 3-day NYC itinerary from a local mom.

These free online summer camps for kids will keep them engaged and having fun, all while learning something— and without leaving home or breaking the bank.

Between gaps in scheduled camps, vacation downtime, and the high cost of everything, it's easy to hit mid-summer burnout. If you've already heard "I'm bored!" more than a few times, free online summer camps could be your secret weapon. (Another secret weapon? Our list of 100 Things To Do When Kids Say "I'm Bored.")

These virtual summer camps in 2025 go way beyond passive screen time. They're fun, flexible, and filled with educational activities your kids will look forward to. Whether you're working from home, traveling, or just need a sanity-saving routine, there’s something here for every family.

We've also created a whole guide with hundreds of boredom busters for kids of all ages, including indoor exercise games, science experiments, and recipes kids can make. 

Being an expectant mother isn't easy, and it's so important to give yourself some "me" time as your body adjusts to carrying a tiny New Yorker. Take a much-needed break by indulging in some of the best prenatal massages NYC has to offer. Whether you need relief from back pain, want to reduce swelling, or crave a moment of calm, these spots for prenatal massage in New York City soothe your body and mind. Find the most relaxing pregnancy massage locations where skilled massage therapists will help you relax, recharge, and find a moment of rest along your incredible journey to motherhood.

Mothers to be can find more help for the changes on the horizon in our NYC Baby Guide, which is packed with helpful ideas for everything from baby registry must-haves to our mom-tested tips for raising little New Yorkers.