Kids

Summer Day Trips for Long Island Families

Submitted by Natalie Ferro A... on

While there are plenty of things to do on Long Island during the summer months, sometimes it's nice to change your routine and explore a different area. And how lucky are we, that there are so many kid-friendly destinations just a ferry, train, or car ride away? So families can spend the day exploring these locations and all they have to offer.

Here are a few of our favorite easy getaways from Long Island, including nearby Connecticut, New Jersey, Rhode Island, New York City, and New York State destinations.

And for what's happening back on Long Island, check out our Summer Fun Guide.

Griffith Observatory: 10 Reasons To Visit Real Stars in Los Angeles

Submitted by Lindsay Halladay on

Feeling a little "been there, done that" with some of SoCal's popular tourist stops? Can't say we blame you. But the famous Griffith Park Observatory is one iconic destination not to be overlooked. The most-visited public observatory in the world, Griffith is also a familiar sight from the many films in which it has (ahem) guest starred. If you or anyone in your family loves space exploration, stargazing, science, or even hiking it's a must-go. Here are 10 reasons why.

Blast Off Into Nature at Challenger Seven Memorial Park

Ashley Jones's picture Submitted by Ashley Jones on

Looking for a serene spot to connect with nature that's large enough to take your entire extended family? Look no further than Challenger Seven Memorial Park in Webster. Known for it's miles of winding trails, lush green spaces, stellar playground equipment, and plenty of picnic tables and pavilions, this park is a hot spot for family fun. 

Say Hello to Japan at Please Touch Museum's Latest Intercultural Exhibit

Submitted by Lindsay Li on

The newest traveling exhibit to come to the Please Touch Museum has come a long way to enrich the educational experience with a trilingual space that explores the cultural experience of traditional and contemporary Japan. Hello from Japan! features tons of hands-on activities and is one of the most digital exhibits to travel to the museum so far. I had a chance to check it out with my two kids (aged 5 and 1). Hello from Japan! invites visitors to explore how traditional Japanese aesthetics co-exists harmoniously with the contemporary.

Best Brooklyn Splash Pads and Water Playgrounds for Summer Fun

Submitted by Sara F on

When the sticky NYC summer heat sets in, kids need fun things to do to keep cool (bonus points if the kiddos also get a chance to burn off some energy). There’s no better solution than water playgrounds—get cool in the water, dry off to hit the other playground equipment, rinse and repeat. All afternoon.

And best of all, hitting a water playground is a FREE summer activity you can do every day. We’ve rounded up the best water features and playgrounds around Brooklyn so that you and the little ones can try a new place to spray and play every day of the week. 

It's a long summer! Find more ways to keep cool with our NYC Beaches, Pools, and Water Parks Guide, which includes splash pads in other boroughs too!

4th of July Fireworks Cruises for Families in LA and OC

Submitted by Martha Hall on

We landlubbers love our fireworks, don't we? Well, if you think the view from the shore is stunning, try witnessing the spectacle from a boat. That's a holiday memory your kiddos won't soon forget. Several small cruise boats set sail this Independence Day, with 2-3 hour tours to delight you and your first mates. Snuggle on deck under a blanket and watch the sky come alive as the water sparkles below. Read on to find a boat leaving a port near you.

The Best July 4th Fireworks Shows on Long Island, 2018

Felissa Allard's picture Submitted by Felissa Allard on

Red, white and blue: check. Daytime BBQ: check. Evening fireworks: Hmm ... 

On Fourth of July weekend, and before and after, families across Long Island gather for picnics, barbecues and, of course, fireworks. With that in mind, we've rounded up Independence Day fireworks happenings up and down Long Island, from Nassau to Suffolk counties and all the way to the East End. July 4 is a Wednesday this year, so fireworks celebrations begin as early as June 20 and continue past the weekend of July 7-8.   

Our list of Long Island fireworks shows will make you want to go fourth beginning from almost the time school lets out. Some Long Island municipalities have not finalized fireworks plans as of mid-June. So check back often for more shows in your neighborhood. And for more kid-friendly activities, be sure to check out our Summer Fun Guide and our Event Calendar.

8 Affordable Fairfield County Beaches

Submitted by Sherry Pardy on

What do you most associate with Fairfield County and the summer time? The pristine beaches that line the Connecticut coast probably come to mind. Even for families on a budget, or those who do not live in a seaside town, soft sand and gentle waves are within reach. Here is a list of the nicest and most affordable ($30 or under per family) beach spots to visit in Fairfield County. Most of these beaches are open from Memorial Day through Labor Day. For more CT Beach and Water Fun, check out our guide and enjoy the sunshine. 

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