Kristen Markel is a wife and a mother of two boys. She loves cooking, The Real Housewives, and all things outdoors. When she’s not in the kitchen or writing, you can find her hiking, skiing, or on the water. Her blog, TheKitchenChalkboard.com, is full of helpful information to get you in the kitchen.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
If you're celebrating Mother's Day 2025 on Long Island, there are tons of ways to make the day special. We've rounded up dozens of only-in-LI experiences, from outdoor activities to foodie delights.
For other family-friendly ideas for enjoying Mother's Day weekend, check out our top picks for where to enjoy Mother's Day brunch on Long Island. You can also find loads of other activities in our Family Activity Calendar.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Flower farms in the tri-state area offer families pick-your-own flower fun and interactive outdoor activities. Nature-loving kids enjoy a blossom-filled adventure to one of these you-pick flower farms near NYC. Pick-your-own farms are no longer limited to berries, peaches, apples, and pumpkins. Many of these local flower farms allow visitors to stroll, skip, and explore fields full of beautiful blooms for photo-ops and to pick everything from tulips in the spring to wildflowers and sunflowers in summer.
From pony rides and playgrounds to mini golf and food trucks, many of the farms are packed with family-friendly action for a full day of fun. Read ahead for our top flower farms to visit this spring and summer. For even more family-friendly farm fun check out our Guide to Farms and U-Pick destinations.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Nonprofits like Toys for Tots offer donation spots throughout Long Island where you can lend a hand to families that are struggling to provide toys for their children. Read on for various opportunities to give back by making donations this holiday season.
Be sure to also check out our rundown of holiday and Thanksgiving volunteer opportunities on Long Island and many other seasonal ideas in our Holiday Guide.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Visiting Rockville Centre? Read on for some of the top things to do with kids on a day trip.
Nestled on Long Island’s South Shore, Rockville Centre is a thriving village filled with restaurants, shops, and a true community feel. This great family-friendly destination is easily accessible by train.
No matter the season, there are plenty of activities to entertain kids and grown-ups, including play spaces, spray parks, and dinosaur exhibits. When you’ve had your fill of fun, check out one of the area's many family-friendly restaurants.
Be sure to check out our rundown of cute towns on Long Island with walkable Main Streets and more day-trip ideas in our Guide to Long Island Day Trips and Weekend Getaways.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Looking for the best breakfast restaurants on Long Island? Read on for our top picks.
Many say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but why not take it easy and leave the cooking to someone else? The Long Island restaurant scene is full of fun diners and restaurants with extensive morning menus and many kid-friendly options.
Since little ones are often early risers, it’s a no-brainer. Get the family together and check out these family-friendly restaurants that are sure to please.
Find our post on the best Long Island brunch spots and other family-friendly restaurant ideas in our Long Island Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Looking for the best coffee shops on Long Island? Read on for our top family-friendly picks.
Coffee shops are so many things–gathering spots, places to work, or spaces to relax and get cozy. They are also great places to take the kids.
With caffeine-free options and over-the-top sweet treats, many of the best coffee shops on Long Island now cater to little ones. So whether you need to fuel up for the day or want to unwind with a warm cup of joe, it’s time to grab the family and head to one of these local cafes that everyone will love.
Be sure to check out our rundown of Long Island restaurants where kids eat FREE and other food and beverage options in our Long Island Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
The Vanderbilt Museum and Planetarium is one of Long Island’s top family-friendly attractions. With year-round appeal, the vast and welcoming Vanderbilt grounds and views, a state-of-the-art planetarium, and an expansive mansion and museum provide hours of fun and entertainment for children and families. This Suffolk county museum transports visitors back in time. As you walk the cobblestone drive, visions of the Astors and Vanderbilts will come to mind. Gilded Age watchers will love this place.
Need more ideas for cultural activities or day trips on Long Island? Mommy Poppins has got you covered. Check out our Museums and Art Guide for Long Island Kids and find day-trip inspiration in our Day Trips Guide for Long Island families.
Submitted by Kristen Markel on
Celebrating a bat mitzvah or bar mitzvah on Long Island is a fantastic opportunity to gather friends and family and commemorate your teen’s accomplishment, but It isn’t just the child doing the hard work. Parents have the enormous task of planning the event, and since Long Island is home to numerous banquet halls and venues, picking a location can be tough. We’ve narrowed the field to 10 of the best spots for a bar mitzvah or bat mitzvah on Long Island.
Our list includes traditional and non-traditional venues that can accommodate a small group or a large crowd. Find the best celebration spot, and check one massive task off your to-do list. Mazel tov!
For more fun ideas, check out our Tweens and Teens Guide to Long Island, and be sure to bookmark our updated Long Island Family Activity Calendar.
