Your NYC Spring 2022 Bucket List: What to Do With the Kids This Season

by Mimi O'ConnorApril 5, 2022

Huzzah! Spring has arrived in New York City. Which means things are about to shift into high gear all around town. (Flowers, festivals, big art to-dos, baseball, etc.) Read on for the biggest and best things to do with kids in NYC this season, from traditional favorites to new in 2022. Don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers—and consult our guide on where to find those spring blooms in NYC. (Want even more ideas for a specific day? Check out our New York Events Calendar!)

Hunt (or Eat) Some Eggs

Don't forget to gather some plastic or chocolate eggs at one of our favorite hunts around town—or indulge in a tasty brunch. Find our picks for both here!

Visit Coney Island

It's too cold for the beach but the rides are hot! Luna Park opened for the season on April 2 and Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park opens on April 10. While you're there, swing by the New York Aquarium (and its new "Spineless" exhibit), and then grab some legendary pizza at Totonno's.

Head Out for An Urban Hike

Hit The Highline, discover the Tribeca Boardwalk, seek out a waterfall in Prospect Park, and more. Find your city hike here!

Go for a Stroller Hike

Go some wheels in the mix? No problem. Check out our list of the best places in NYC (and beyond) for stroller hikes.

Be One of The First to See Dinosaur Safari at The Bronx Zoo

This popular attraction, featuring a ride through a forest filled with animatronic dinos is back, and opening April 11. It's here until October 30. Read more info about visiting the Bronx Zoo here.

Get details on Dinosaur Safari here.

Visit a Petting Zoo

mom and child with a goat at Point Defiance Zoo petting farms and zoo — Dean Koepfler

If you want to get up close and personal with the animals, visit a petting zoo. Find our favorites (and lots of other places to talk to the animals big and small) here.

Check Out a Visiting Museum Exhibit

April showers? Time to head inside for some fun and cultural enrichment. The Whitney Biennial is in town. The Met's Part II of the Costume Institute's Anthology of Fashion opens. A toddler's dream, Wobbly World is at the Liberty Science Center, as are Minecraft and Paw Patrol exhibits. Those are just a few of the subjects of shows around town. Check out all the possibilities here.

Take a Day Trip

You don't even have to leave New York City proper if you don't want to. Check out all our ideas for spring day trips from NYC with kids here.

Celebrate Earth Day

Lots of events are happening around town to celebrate Mother Earth.

Head to the Brooklyn Children's Museum for Earth Day activities during spring break week from April 16-24. Event details here.

Head to Union Square for the return of the Earth Day Festival in Union Square on April 21. Event details here.

Or drop by Rockefeller Center's Spring Sunday on April 24 with Rock N Roll Playhouse, The Climate Museum, microgreen planting, bookmark making and more. Event details here.

Take a Ride on the Dream Wheel

A Large Ferris Wheel in New Jersey — American Dream

This mega Ferris wheel opens April 13. Hop into one of the cars for a 30-minute, climate-controlled ride offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. (You can also stop by Deep Fried Love for concessions like deep-friend funnel cake, Twinkies and Oreos.

Get details here.

Check Out the TILT Festival at FIAF

The French Institute Alliance Française's TILT is back in person and dedicated to the natural world! Fun for all ages, Join them Saturday, April 30–Sunday, May 1, 2022 for an adventurous weekend of music, movement, and visual art with artists whose work connects us to plants, animals, and most of all, each other. Fun for all ages, highlights of the fest include live music (with People of Earth, shown here), interactive performances, a flower workshop, a Little Prince performance and the creation of an aquatic wonderland art project.

Event details here.

Go Play for Free at Street Games

The city's celebration of good old-fashioned fun returns on April 30. Get there early for maximum time with the hula hoops, pogo sticks, lemon twists, double dutch, box cars and more!

Click here for event details.

Taste the Rainbow at Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg, the taste-tastic convocation of incredible food vendors of all kinds and cultures is back in a big way with openings at WTC (April 1), Jersey City (April 2) and Prospect Park (April 3). (Williamsburg opens in June.) Get the full Smorgasburg scoop here!

Lace Up and Hit the Rinks

a pair of retro rollerskates in grass — Rodnae Productions via Pexels

You have a lot of choice on where you want to roll this spring.

The iconic rink at Rockefeller Center is going all-season with the opening of roller skating rink Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace on April 15. The rink is inspired by Ian “Flipper” Ross' famed Los Angeles Rink of the same name, which opened in 1979. His daughter, Liberty Ross, is reviving the magic of the era by bringing it to The Rink at Rockefeller Center.

Click here for more info.

Out at JFK, find the groovy Roll-A-Rama Runway Rink at the TWA Hotel, which opens for the season on April 15. The 44-by-56 outdoor rink features vintage tunes and is open on weekends. Rentals of four-wheeled "quad skates" are included with every 50-minute skate session, which costs $20 per adult and $16 per child under 12. You can also bring your own skates.

Click here for more info.

And of course, the lovely LeFrak at Lakeside in Prospect Park is now open for the season.

Ride a Zipline

The zipping season has begun! Here's where to soar above it all.

See the Latest Show at the Marionette Theatre

It's a classic fairy tale adapted for true NYC kids. Wake Up, Daisy! A Modern Take On Sleeping Beauty tells the story of Daisy, a lively little girl living in the heart of New York City in an apartment overlooking Central Park. At Daisy’s much-anticipated birthday party, she encounters three special guests, known as her “Squad-parents”, from Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, who grant her the gifts of courage, knowledge, and a second chance. When an unwelcome guest shows up and casts a curse on her, Daisy’s life is forever changed. But through the support of her friends and an adventure throughout the city, Daisy’s strong self-determination and vivid imagination may be all she needs to break the curse. The production is recommended for families with children ages 3 - 8.

Tickets: $8-12
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
Central Park
W. 79th St. and West Drive (Enter at w 81st St. and Central Park West)
Online: eventbrite.com

Check out NYC in full bloom.

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—Mimi O’Connor

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Simple Yet Seriously Impressive Entryway Storage Solutions

by Oz SpiesJanuary 10, 2022

The entryway of any home is a tricky spot—it’s a magnet for piles of shoes, backpacks and unopened mail but is also the first impression of your home your guests get when they come over. Luckily, you can turn your cluttered entryway into an organized landing spot with these clever storage solutions. Keep reading for the easiest entryway decor ideas for small spaces and beyond that will not only fit your style but also your budget.

Best Entryway Decor: Extra Small Spaces

If the floor space in your small entry space is too small to accommodate a furniture-like storage solution, look to the wall to solve your organizing needs. The beauty of this DIY pegboard is that it can be customized to fit your space—make it as big or small as you need it. If picking up the drill is too much of a commitment, you can also buy off-the-rack versions on Etsy.

Click here for the full instructions for the wooden pegboard wall from Vintage Revivals.

Best entryway storage solutions — Wayfair

Looking for an entryway organizer on a budget? This affordable bamboo entryway table/shoe rack is the solution you need. This narrow beauty offers everything, including separate spaces for umbrellas and boots, three shelves for all those shoes and a spot for your bag and backpacks.

To buy: Wayfair, $53

Best entryway decor for small spaces — 1919 Home Goods via Etsy

An extra-narrow entryway can still get its upgrade with an extra-slim console table. Pair this table with a hook or two, and you've got a place to put your mail and keys when you walk in the door. We love that this sustainable pine wood table can be ordered in different lengths, heights and stains—ensuring it fits in with your particular space and decorating style.

To buy: 1919 Home Goods, $149 & up

Another great small space solution? Use lucite furniture. This clear console table doesn't take up a lot of space visually but offers storage solutions for catch-alls on top and a basket below. Add a welcoming piece of art like this Why Hello art print to warm up the space.

To buy: Target, $473

Best Entryway Decor: Hall Trees

This classic cottage hall tree is supplied by none other than the DIY mecca known as Home Depot. Pull-out drawers, hooks for hats and coats, upper shelves for books and decor make this all-in-one piece an organizer's dream.

To buy: Home Depot, $909

Dreaming of being a minimalist? This hall tree takes you there with its clean lines and neutral-colored bench seat. With just enough spots to keep the things you need handy, getting cluttered and overwhelmed is just not an option with this entryway piece.

To buy: Wayfair, $336

Thanks to this corner hall tree, typically overlooked (and wasted!) space is now a landing spot for books, shoes, coats and more, thanks to ample hooks and shelves galore.

To buy: Amazon, $244

For those watching their budgets, head to eBay, where there are a variety of new, in-the-box hall tree options. This one comes with a shoe rack, a set of double hooks and a bench in a neutral black iron frame and sandalwood combo and costs just a little over one Benjamin Franklin.

To buy: eBay, $107

—Oz Spies & Andie Huber

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6 Holiday Gifts That Are Sure to Make Their Wish List This Year

by Lauren DuVillaDecember 3, 2021

Between decorating, sending cards, getting gifts and finding time to make family memories, you have a lot on your plate this holiday season. To make gift giving a little easier, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite items that little ones will love! Check out these mom-tested holiday picks when you’re making your list (and checking it twice) this year:

Melissa & Doug Examine & Treat Pet Vet Play Set

With help from this pretend vet set, our pet lovers can go the extra mile to nurse their (stuffed) animals back to health.

$32.49 BUY NOW

Squishville Mall

Your littles will be thrilled with this new playset that opens up a whole world of huggable fun and includes two of everyone’s favorite Squishmallows: Pei the Rainbow-Banded Panda Pegacorn and Rhiannon the Pink Fox—in a 2-inch size.

$29.99 BUY NOW

Solar System Sidewalk Chalk Set

A universally adored gift! We love how artsy explorers get a peek into the colorful core, layers and crusts of each planet (plus Pluto!) after multiple uses.

$43.00 BUY NOW

Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter Baby and Toddler Toy

A shape sorter that isn't a massive plastic or wooden contraption that takes up too much room? Yes, please.

$24.79 BUY NOW

Hello Nature Activity Book

We love encouraging our kids to go wild—in this case, drawing, coloring and recording outdoor adventures in a beautiful nature scrapbook.

$18.99 BUY NOW

Eco Finger Paint

When our kids are inevitably covered in from head to toe, we prefer it be with these adorable paints, made from organic fruit and vegetable extracts.

$18.99 BUY NOW

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Vrbo’s New Doggo Vacation Houses Are 11/10 & You Can Reserve One

by Sarah ShebekDecember 1, 2021

It’s a dog’s world, we’re just living in it! Four-legged friends definitely earn a spot on our gift lists and now a truly epic present is up for grabs. Vrbo is listing five customized dog houses that are inspired by the platform’s most popular rental types—they’re so good that your pup may never come back inside!

The houses of your dog’s dreams cost $100 each and will be up for grabs on Dec. 9 at noon CT. The mid-century modern bungalow comes with a dog pool and a succulent garden. There’s a luxe cabin that is perfect for cozy naps, a beach cottage that even has a rooftop checkerboard for humans and an A-frame that’s perfect for your pup’s Instagram account. Don’t forget the Eichler-style modern ranch house!

Yes, these homes might be (much) nicer than the average doghouse, but it’s been a rough couple years and your doggo deserves it. Make sure you’re on the listing for the house you want to book on Dec. 9, since they’ll go fast! Proceeds from each will go to the Best Friends Animal Society and Vrbo also plans to make a $10,000 donation to the organization.

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Vrbo

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9 British Recipes Perfect for Your Comfort Food Cravings

by Karly WoodNovember 23, 2021

British food often gets a bad rap, but truth be told, it reigns supreme when it comes to hearty meals. Getting your kids to indulge can be easy considering the cuisine’s inclusion of mashed potatoes, pastry dough and gravy-covered veggies. Keep scrolling to grab a few easy and tradition British recipe the kids will crave.

Clotted Cream

Once you try clotted cream, you'll never go back. This British spread goes great on just about anything, but is traditionally used on scones for team time. The View from Great Island has perhaps the easiest recipe we've ever seen!

Scones

Speaking of scones! You can't enjoy a proper cream tea without a few buttery treats like these scones from Caroline's Cooking. Made with baking ingredients you likely had on hand, they make for the perfect baking activity for an afternoon.

Scotch Eggs

Hear us out: a hardboiled egg, wrapped in sausage, coated in breadcrumbs and then baked. Hello, Scotch eggs! A hearty breakfast that is actually not that hard to make, you'll love this tasty and zesty recipe from The Beach House Kitchen.

Bangers and Mash

Sausage and cheesy mashed potatoes are at the heart of this Irish dish. Served with onion gravy, A Spicy Perspective has a tasty recipe has an easy recipe that is perfect for chilly nights.

Cottage Pie

Ground beef, gravy and veggies: this is cottage pie! Once you combine in a casserole dish, all that's left is the crowning glory, mashed potatoes and cheese. Check out Boulder Lacavore's simple recipe that makes for great leftovers.

Cornish Pasty

Great for on the go, or slathering in gravy, the Cornish pasty is an easy way to sneak in veggies! Food Fanatic's recipe uses traditional ingredients like steak, onion and rutabaga to name a few, then bakes in a flaky dough.

Coronation Chicken

Want your little kings and queens to dine in style? Whip up Coronation Chicken! Literally a recipe developed for the queen, The Petite Cook's own version pulls together this chicken salad dish in 10 minutes.

Welsh Cakes

Part pancake and part scone, Welsh cakes are great for breakfast or tea. The Worktop's recipe is simple and straightforward, using raisins for natural sweetness.

English Trifle

This English trifle is meat free (unlike Rachel's version in the infamous Friends episode) and oh so delicious. That Skinny Chick Can Bake uses tasty cake, berries, custard and whipped cream to craft the prettiest dessert at the table.

––Karly Wood

Feature photo: Canva

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Local Portland Gifts for Everyone on Your List.

by Annette BenedettiNovember 13, 2021

Even if you’re not one of those people that allow Christmas to start the day after Halloween, you might have to admit that this year it’s been creeping in– with recommendations to shop early, you might be compiling a list already! If your holiday gift list is looking slim so far, we’ve rounded up the best recommendations from local Portland stores for the whole family– Dad, Mom, Big Kid, and Baby. Read on for some great ideas from great local places to check out!

Dads:

Staghorn Fern from Pistils Nursery

Get your plant dad a stunning Staghorn Fern Plaque to grace his wall-- these large antler-like fronds are like a piece of living taxidermy: a dramatic statement for any man cave or living room! Local plant gurus Pistils Nursery have been in business for 20 years, sharing the gift of green and gently encouraging those with blacker thumbs. Their flagship store on Mississippi, along with a new location in Slabtown showcase everything from rare and unusual plants to the coveted swiss cheese monsteras, along with chic planters, pots, and accessories. If Dad is still growing his plant passion, try a ZZ Plant (otherwise known as Zamioculcas amiifolia). One of the most low maintenance houseplants around, this is a great "set it and forget it" plant -- at least for a few weeks at a time.

Pistils Nursery

3811 N Mississippi Ave.

Portland, OR

2139 NW Raleigh St.

Portland, OR

Online: pistilsnursery.com

Vintage Trail Blazers Jersey from Laundry

Tucked into Old Town/Chinatown, Laundry is like a candy store for the sports-loving Dad in your life. Full of thoughtfully curated vintage merch (like jerseys, caps and tees) from a wide variety of sports and sports brand, you can cross a few things off your list here in no time. For the Blazers fan, find Damian Lillard and Andre Miller jerseys, or go further afield with a bright orange Netherlands soccer jersey, among hundreds of others. And they have kids sizes, too!

Laundry
140 NW 4th Ave
Portland, OR
Online: laundrypdx.com

Scientific Heroes Glassware from Boys Fort

Maybe you have absolutely zero idea what Dad wants-- that's totally normal. Hop over to Boys Fort, where you'll find dozens of options for the Dad who has everything. Formerly downtown, they've moved their store into Urbanite on SE Grand Ave but kept it packed full of goodies, like leather wallets, unique decor, stylish Portland maps, books, hot sauce, and even an Albert Einstein pint glass, all geared toward the modern Dad. If you're still at a loss, ask them to help-- you'll walk away with an expertly curated set of gifts in no time.

Inside Urbanite
1005 SE Grand Ave
Portland, OR
Online: boysfort.com

Gifts for Moms

New Planner from Little Otsu

For the Mom brimming with ideas, plans, schedules, or creative brainstorming, head to Little Otsu to get her all decked out. You'll find beautiful paper goods and from all over the world that will make her home office pop and inspire! Get her set for 2022 with this vibrant planner from England, or brighten up her desk with a colorful Italian stapler.

Mom can jot down all her ideas in a myriad of journals, with fountain pens, colored pencils, highlighters, and more. Don't miss the sweet collection of books and zines, including great options for kids.

Little Otsu

3225 SE Division St.

Portland, OR

Online: littleotsu.com

The Hottest Fashions from The Yo! Store

A vibrant store melding color, vintage, adults, kids, European style and American fun into one warm experience, the Yo! Store is ready to knock a few things off your list. Founded in 2016, they've been sourcing quality goods from small independent makers worldwide for years, culminating in a store that's like having your best friend say "here, try this."

You'll find clothes (quilted jackets! stylish sweatpants! polka dot sweaters!), jewelry, bags, and colorful socks for mom, but don't stop there. Stuff her stocking with nail polish and candles before moving on to the kids sections, where adorable clothes, books, and toys await.

The Yo! Store
935 NW 19TH Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: yoportland.com/

Doug Fir Chai from Roots and Crowns Apothecary

Get mom a warming blend of tea with chai spices, complete with foraged Doug fir tips at this home brewed apothecary. You'll also find hand crafted brooms, candles, artwork, and journals alongside the house line, full of rose-scented face serums, mineral makeup, herbal tinctures, and bitters.

Roots and Crowns Apothecary
1812 NW 24th Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: rootsandcrowns.com

Gifts for Kids

Cheeseburger Pillow from Black Wagon

This Mississippi Street store is chock full of fun, for kids ages 0-14 (and up)! Even the most teen of pre-teens won't be able to resist this soft cheeseburger floor pillow-- they're designed for all ages, tough enough for interactive play yet cozy enough for catching up on their favorite shows, games, and creative activities.

Or test their skills on Christmas Day with a wooden pinball set, along with a huge variety of puzzles, games, and musical instruments next to a whole wall of adorable clothes.

Black Wagon Kids
3964 N Mississippi Ave.
Portland, OR
Online: blackwagon.com

Anything from Hello! Good Morning!

This adorable store has found a new home inside Cargo, an import shop that's been in business for over 20 years (and is worth checking out in it's own right!). With a background in animation, owner Amy has expertly curated the small space so that everywhere you look there's something bright, colorful, amusing, and whimsical. Bright journals, kids books, vintage toys, ceramics, and even those rubber finger monsters mingle together in a fun and inspiring space. Your only problem will be which things to bring home with you, and which leaves to come back for later!

Hello! Good Morning!

Inside Cargo

81 SE Yamhill

Inside CARGO

Portland, OR

Online: hellogoodmorningkids.com

Wooden Gnome Home from Spielwerk Toys

Being a kid is hard work sometimes, and Spielwerk gets that. That's why they stock their store with all the best tools of childhood: toys, games, puzzles, and more that helps kids think creatively, solve problems, and goof around. Find your child's new favorite friend here with a wooden gnome home, or a whimsical fairy doll. And stay tuned-- they're working on launching their own line here in Portland!

Spielwerk Toys

3808 N Williams Ave Ste 121

Portland, OR

Online: spielwerktoys.com

Gifts for Babies

Board Books from Green Bean Books

The folks at Green Bean Books are the best kind, ready to offer you their favorite new book along with a secret smile. Full of kids books of all kinds, head here to start Baby off right with a set of adorable board books.

Their top picks this year are:

What's in the Box? written by Isabel Otter illustrated by Joaquin Camp. An interactive lift-the-flap and touch-and-feel book with a plethora of boxes to open with silly things inside. Perfect for baby's gift opening practice during the holidays.

Dog's First Baby by Natalie Nelson. A new baby's impact from a dog's perspective: very sweet and charming. Don't worry, a cat one is scheduled to be released in March too!

Where Is Everyone? by Tom Schamp. An interactive lift-the-flap with goofy animal characters doing ridiculous things to discover.

Green Bean Books

1600 NE Alberta Street
Portland, Oregon

Online: greenbeanbookspdx.com

Woodland Activity Blanket from Grasshopper

The newest people in the world deserve the best things-- get the baby in your life this adorable Woodland Activity Blanket from Grasshopper, full of sensory bumps and crackling paper. Located on Alberta St, this store serves up a wide range of goodies for the little ones in your life, from babies and up! Useful items along with thoughtful design combine to offer goods that even adults will want to play with, like these sweet Babyoshka nesting dolls. You'll also find books, clothes, art, puzzles, games, baby essentials, and so much more!

Grasshopper Boutique

1816 NE Alberta
Portland, OR

Online: grasshopperstore.com

—Katrina Emery

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Get Outta Town: Our Favorite NYC Area Airbnbs for Families

by Mimi O'ConnorJuly 14, 2021

New Yorkers are lucky in that there are many places close to NYC with kid-friendly vacation rentals, and kid-friendly activities. From the Hudson Valley to the Poconos, the Berkshires to the Catskills and beyond, there are options—and not all of them cost a fortune. Whether you’re looking for a nearby vacation rental for a few days, or perhaps a longterm Airbnb rental for an extended stay, we found family-friendly vacation rentals worth a book! (Some are even pet-friendly!)

For a Deluxe Connecticut Getaway

Spread out at this pet-friendly vacation rental in the Hudson Valley located on one acre with a babbling brook! Deluxe but cozy furnishings, high ceilings, lots of light, wifi, and enough space to sleep eight (plus three-and-a-half bathrooms) may make you want to stay in this renovate 1900 barn for a while!

Rate: $176/night

Online: airbnb.com

For a Ranch With Outdoor Luxuries

A hot tub, tank pool, outdoor movie screen and fire pit nestled in the wilderness? Yes, please! (And that's just on the outside!) Stony Hill Ranch has four bedrooms and three-and-a-half baths, as well as a "Jam Shed" where you can rock out for an additional deposit. The property is in Kerhonkson, NY near the Shawangunk Mountains, but also near a Wal-Mart if you need to stock up on things.

Rate: $230/night

Onilne: airbnb.com

For a Berkshire Cottage at a Discount

The kind-hearted proprietors of this cozy cottage near Great Barrington, Mass, have discounted the rate for weekly and monthly rentals to help people find some respite from the city. In addition to being near area attractions like a nearby beach and hiking, this place looks primo for enjoying fall foliage, and its even got its own gazebo for taking in nature's splendor.

Rate: $160/night

Online: airbnb.com

To Indulge Your Inner Design Nerd

This pet-friendly rental is cooler than you. A modern house that's small but stylish, this cabin near Rhinebeck, New York has a year-round heated pool, outdoor shower, mod fireplace, deep egg soaking tub, and a separate glass house—"a retreat from your retreat."

Rate: $390/night

Online: airbnb.com

For a Cozy Bargain in the Poconos

It's cute and compact and the price is right! This little cottage in the Poconos is small but mighty, with peaceful sitting areas, a fire pit, grill, patio string lights, and it's also pet-friendly. Plus, it's near hiking, flea markets and other area attractions.

Rate: $116/night

Online: airbnb.com

For a Far Out Experience in the Catskills

If you and the clan have ever dreamed of camping out in a geodome on a farm upstate (who hasn’t?), we’ve got good news! The Outlier Inn in Woodbridge New York is a 12-acre property with multiple accommodations that range from cottages and bungalows to tiny houses and a kitschy 50s trailer. But it’s the geodome that caught our eye. It’s BYO Bed for this affair—it’s a wood floor— but you and the kids will have lots of room to spread out. Amenities include outdoor hot showers, a sink, and clawfoot bathtub. There’s also an outdoor kitchen with fridge, sink and grill, and guests are welcome to explore the acreage, meet the resident animals (sheep, angora goats and rabbits, dairy goats, and chickens) and buy organic produce from the farm’s greenhouse and garden. The Inn is located in Sullivan County, close to Bethel Woods, the Catskill Park, Neversink Unique Area and Sam's Point.

Rate: $350/night

Online: airbnb.com

For an Affordable Cabin with Thoughtful Touches

Settle in at this New Fairfield, CT cabin across from Candlewood Lake and a two-minute drive from Squantz Pond State Park. This little house has stylish touches all around, as well as a fire pit and patio, outdoor shower and even an inflatable hot tub!

Rate: $152/night

Online: airbnb.com

For a Loft Apt in a New Paltz Barn

We see a fun fall outing at this loft apartment in a renovated 19th century barn in New Paltz. Head up for a couple days for apple or pumpkin picking, enjoying the fall foliage, etc. The barn is up to date with all the conveniences of wifi, A/C, washer/dryer, and is near both the town of New Paltz and outdoor spots for hiking and enjoying nature.

Rate: $122/night

Online: airbnb.com

For an Historic House in the Heart of Northampton

Embrace your farmhouse daydreams at an affordable rate in this historic, restored Northampton, Mass house. The two-bedroom, one-and-a-half bath house is located in the charming downtown, and has a authentic features like wide-plank wood floors, a (narrow) spiral staircase and farmhouse sink. There's also a grill and garden sitting area.

Rate: $151/night

Online: airbnb.com

To Fulfill a Hamptons Fantasy

It's not cheap, but that's not how things are in the Hamptons. Live the Hamptons lifestyle for a spell in this lovely four-bedroom, two bath house in Sag Harbor. Close to the village shops and town beaches, this bayside charmer has rolling lawns, a deck for taking in sunsets, lots of space and even a a game room.

Rate: $420/night

Online: airbnb.com

—Mimi O’Connor

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Home Away from Home: Atlanta’s Best Airbnbs

by Tinybeans TeamJuly 13, 2021

There are lots of reasons to Airbnb it in Atlanta. Whether you’re planning a staycation, thinking about making a trip to Atlanta with your kiddos, or looking to outsource your best friend’s weekend visit with tots in tow, these family-friendly Airbnb’s are epic. From manse to mini, graceful to mod, we’ve picked our favorite crashpads in town. Keep reading for everything you need to know about our city’s best kept Airbnb secrets.

Secluded Intown Treehouse

This property is Airbnb's #1 most wish-listed property in the world, and is described as being the most relaxing, romantic, dreamy and unique place you'll ever stay. What could be better than falling asleep in the trees and waking up to birds singing around you—all within the city limits? Located near Northside Drive in Buckhead, visitors here will have easy access to the interstate, Buckhead and Midtown.

Llama Luxury Cottage

Stay with the Dali Llama once at this Llama Luxury Cottage and you'll never book a traditional hotel stay again. Kids will love these gentle creatures (but take a spare shirt—llamas spit when mad), the on-site hens (and fresh, organic eggs), and the bamboo forrest. This quirky urban oasis is located only 20 minutes from the Georgia Aquarium, Atlanta Children's Museum, and Centennial Olympic Park in downtown Atlanta.

Buckhead Carriage House

If Southern charm is what you're after, then this graceful Buckhead Carriage House is for you. Situated in the heart of Atlanta's in-town neighborhood known for its restaurants, shopping, and beautiful homes (also for the Legoland Discovery Center, Atlanta History Museum, and within striking distance to some of the city's prettiest parks and playgrounds), this beautiful abode with its own pool is perfect for families.

Teepee in the City

The Teepee is tucked in the corner of a unique property in East Atlanta that is shared with another Tepee, a Sovereign Airsteam, a Caravel Airstream, and a Dalton Camper—all rented out to other guests. It's high on the novelty list and certain to delight any adventure-loving littles, but isolated it is not. Families can use the fenced in backyard, complete with a garden, hammocks, hot tub, treehouse and zipline, and fire pit, and the owners live on-site with their two younger kids.

Midtown Modern and Miniature

This Tiny House packs a big punch when it comes to cleanliness, thoughtful design, and proximity to in-town's favorite hotspots near Piedmont Park and the Botanical Garden, the BeltLine, the Krog Street Market, the Atlanta Zoo, and more. The tucked-away bedroom and the enchanting loft space make this tiny house a big hit with your kiddos, and don't let the size scare you. This casa is located close to everything worth seeing and doing, so your couch time will be limited. But while you're there? Magic.

—Shelley Massey

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Summer Vacation Plan: Book a Rad Vacation Rental with a Pool

by Kate LowethJune 8, 2021

You know you need something to look forward to right about now (we do too!). These vacation rentals are the ticket. They tick all the boxes: driving distance from Boston, an easy vacation for kids and best of all, a pool for on-site entertainment. Here are our favorite vacation rentals for families near Boston.

North Andover Stunner

You'll definitely feel the New England vibes of this 4-bed, 3-bath house located in the quiet hamlet of North Andover. Enjoy the pool and hot tub while you are grilling and then take on the kids in a game of volleyball or badminton. There's a children's park just a short walk away and don't miss a stop at Cows Rock for ice cream.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $600/night
Online: airbnb.com/rooms/24250099

Brand-New Home with Pool | Woburn, MA

Your family will love this pristinely-clean home in a nice suburban neighborhood for your next family adventure. The highlight is definitely the pool; bring your floaties and plan to spend a lot of time out there. Dogs are welcome and the fenced-in backyard works great if you bring them with you.

Sleeps: 8
Cost: $228/night
Online: airbnb.com

Sunsets, Salty Air & Harbor Views | Marblehead, MA

You'll have ocean views as you dine by this home's in-ground pool. The whole family will love it! Overlooking Salem Harbor, this apartment is located on the first floor with some of the best views! Neighborhood beach access a block away and the Marblehead public boat landing is a short 5 minute walk.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $214/night
Online: airbnb.com

Country Estate with Massive Pool | Manchester-by-the-Sea, MA

This 6,000-square foot home is perfectly set up to host your next family get together. This historic home with updated with modern charm and it is only five minutes from two of New England's most beautiful beaches.

Sleeps: 10
Cost: $550/night
Online: airbnb.com

Magnificent Waterfront Estate | York, ME

This beautiful, waterfront estate with 220 feet of ocean frontage offers all you need for a luxurious, relaxing seaside vacation. Spectacular ocean views from every room. This beautifully designed and furnished home offers all required for a luxurious seaside vacation. BBQ, heated pool, gourmet kitchen, open family room, 2 master suites, 4 additional bedrooms and 5 spa bathrooms.

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $1,707/night
Online: airbnb.com

Cottage with Hot Tub | Hampton, NH

This cute cottage is just a 7-minute walk to the beach and it has a lot to offer families. There's an above-ground pool and hot tub, fun loft room for the kids and fire pit for cooler nights.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $199/night
Online: airbnb.com

Grand Maine Seaside Cottage | York, ME

When you're ready to book your next family reunion, mark this one down. It has 7 bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms so you can really invite the whole crew. Views of the harbor can's be beat. You'll have access to all the amenities at Stage Neck Inn, including the indoor and outdoor pools.

Sleeps: 16
Cost: $1,650/night
Online: airbnb.com

Beach House with Pool | Kennebunk, ME

This home is perfect for gathering with families. You can enjoy your meals outdoor by the fire pit and massive pool. Walk one mile to the beach to feel the sand on your toes. With two kitchens, your crew can cook up a storm.

Sleeps: 12
Cost: $450/night
Online: airbnb.com

—Kate Loweth

Featured image: Jayden Burdick via Pexels

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Meghan Markle & Prince Harry Welcome Daughter Lili

by Sarah ShebekJune 6, 2021

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are officially a family of four! Today Prince Harry and Meghan announced the birth of their daughter, Lilibet Diana. She was born Friday morning at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara, California, according to a statement from the couple.

“On June 4^th, we were blessed with the arrival of our daughter, Lili,” the couple added. “She is more than we could have ever imagined, and we remain grateful for the love and prayers we’ve felt from across the globe. Thank you for your continued kindness and support during this very special time for our family.”

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A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily)

She’s named after the family nickname of her great grandmother, Queen Elizabeth and her middle name honors Harry’s mother, Princess Diana. Lili joins her brother, two-year-old Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor. The family is settling in together at home.

Buckingham Palace also released a statement on the happy news: “The Queen, The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall, and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been informed and are delighted with the news of the birth of a daughter for The Duke and Duchess of Sussex.”

Congratulations to the happy family and welcome to the Queen’s 11th great-grandchild!

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of ComposedPix / Shutterstock.com

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