It’s not really summer if you don’t go to an amusement park with the kids at some point, right? But which one is best for your family? We rounded up our favorite amusement parks near NYC, with kiddie rides for little kids, thrill rides for bigger kids and extra fun like water parks and beaches if you need it. For more fun this season, see our list of Must-Dos for summer 2022, our guide to Coney Island this year and our picks for the best outdoor water parks near NYC.
Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement & Kiddie Park in Brooklyn
Home to the iconic Wonder Wheel, this Coney Island classic amusement park has been in business since the 1920s. (Yes, the Wonder Wheel recently celebrated 100 years.) The park is, oddly, in between the two sections of the other amusement park at Coney, Luna Park. You pay per ride here (you don’t have to pay an admission fee to get in) and while there are rides for big and little kids, the kiddie rides are more the draw. (The park did introduce a new family thrill coaster, The Phoenix, last year.) Kiddie rides are 5 tickets each. You can buy a package of 50 for $45. While people afraid of heights should probably avoid the Wonder Wheel, it’s a must-do otherwise, providing incredible views of Conney Island, the beach and beyond.
Pro-tip: Fireworks on Fridays at 9:45 p.m. start July 9th. (Weather permitting)
1025 Boardwalk
Coney Island
Nearest train stations: Stillwell Ave or W. 8th St (Aquarium station)
Mon.-Fri., 12-6 p.m.
Sat. & Sun., 12-9 p.m.
Online: denoswonderwheel.com
Thrilling New Yorkers for decades, Luna Park is home to the famous Coney Island Cyclone, which celebrates 95 years this summer. You can pay per ride or buy a wristband for unlimited rides here. There are plenty of tamer rides for little kids (the tiny rollercoaster is a popular choice) and lots of thrillers like the Tickler, Thunderbolt, Steeplechase, and many more. Plus two new rides coming later this season. Tony’s Express will be a family-friendly rollercoaster with over 1,200 feet of track and Leti’s Treasure will have 12 6-seater boats that will rise over 40 feet high the drop into water with a splash. Both are planned to open this summer so keep your eyes open for them. In addition to rides, you can try your luck (or skill) at many games and potentially head home with an oversized stuffie.
1000 Surf Ave.
Coney Island
Nearest train stations: Stillwell Ave or W. 8th St (Aquarium station)
Mon.-Fri., 12-8 p.m.
Sat., 11 a.m.-12 a.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Online: lunaparknyc.com
Photo: Wai Sze Zara
Adventurers Park in Brooklyn
Is it your little one’s first time visiting an amusement park? This is a great place to ease kids into the amusement park experience. Enjoy classics like tea cups, car rides, a merry-go-round, flying planes and more. P.O.P. On weekdays, you can buy wristbands for unlimited rides between 12-3 p.m. or 4-7 p.m. You’ll also find Go Karts, miniature golf and bumper cars here. Tickets are $4, with most rides one or two tickets.
Pro-tip: Visit the L&B Spumoni Gardens (one of our favorites) nearby and grab their celebrated Sicilian square pizza.
1824 Shore Pkwy
Brooklyn
Nearest train station: Bay Parkway & 86th Street followed by a 5-minute bus ride
Mon.-Fri., Opens at noon
Sat. & Sun., Opens at 11 a.m.
718-975-2748
Online: adventurerspark.com
Photo: Wai Sze Zara
Fantasy Forest Amusement Park in Queens
Visit Queens’ only amusement park in the heart of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. You can’t miss it: this fun zone is smack dab between Queens Zoo, the New York Hall of Science and the Playground for All Children. It’s another manageable spot with gentler rides for little kids and is a fun placer to stop before or after a day at the zoo, museum or playground. In addition to classic rides the park also has games and shows.
Adventureland has been delivering family fun on Long Island since 1962. New this season is The Fireball, a family rollercoaster that’s “the only one of its kind in North America.” Adventureland has thrill rides, water rides and kiddie rides, too.
All guests that enter the park must buy a ticket. Guests ages 2-24 are $41.99 each. An adult ticket accompanying guests under 25 is $31.99 each. For a quick visit and saving, go one hour before closing and pay $20.
Check the calendar for operating times, which fluctuate throughout the summer.
Operating since 1928, Rye Playland is an old-time favorite and a historical landmark. Enjoy a nostalgic ride on the Dragon Coaster or try the friendly Crazy Submarine.
Admission and unlimited rides for those 48″ or under cost $24.99; for those 48″ and taller the cost is 34.99. Spectators who want to come and watch pay $14.99. Children three and under are free and Westchester residents receive a discount. (Save a few dollars by buying your tickets online.) Parking is available starting at $12 on weekdays and $15 on weekends.
Pro-tip: Don’t leave Rye without a stop at Playland’s beach and brand new pool. Then take a stroll along the boardwalk and enjoy views of the Long Island Sound.
Legoland in Goshen, New York, is celebrating its one-year anniversary. If you haven’t visited yet, now is the time. All seven themed lands are now open, and you can beat the heat with new water activities coming this summer. You’ll find big kid and little kid versions of the same ride here, such as Driving School and the Drsagon Coaster. In addition to rides, LEGOland entertainment is stellar and includes meet and greets with characters, a nature maze, and a 4D movie theater.
Pro-tip: You may get wet! For the Lego purist, step in the Build & Test and challenge your creativity. Build it and test it on their race track. Don’t miss out on a visit to Miniland. Everything looks better when it’s miniature! Extend your weekend by booking a room at their resort. The outdoor pool is open!
Admission tickets for three and up start at $67.99. Annual passes and combination discounts are available.
Parking is extra and they recommend that you pre-pay online. You scan your pass on the way out.
Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 20 mins.
Bus transportation is available and departs to and from Port Authority. (Tickets are separate)
1 Legoland Way
Goshen
Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Online: legoland.com
Jenkinson’s Amusement Park at Point Pleasant Beach NJ
Looking for a classic Jersey Shore experience? Head to Jenkinson’s, where you’ll find lots of beginner rides for the little kids, and thrill rides for older ones. Hop a tiny train to get around the Point Pleasant boardwalk and check out the aquarium, an Adventure Lookout Rope course, miniature golf, and much more. And of course, you can also hit the beach.
Credits start at 50 cents. Kiddie rides are 6 – 8 tickets.
Distance from NYC: 1 hour, 20 mins.
Public transportation: NJ Transit to Point Pleasant Beach, followed by a 10 min. walk to the boardwalk.
When you need some serious firepower to get the kids excited, this is the place to go, thanks to thrill rides like Kingda Ka and wood coaster El Toro, the latter of which was voted the #1 roller coaster by readers of USA Today 10 Best. Six Flags also has plenty of rides for little kids, live shows, and special events. Check out the Wild Walkway and meet some exotic animals up close at the Golden Kingdom.
You can also choose to get in your car and observe the 350-acre preserve. (Keep in mind that the experience takes 1.5 to 3 hours.) New for 2022: Join the Giraffe Encounter Tour for an off-road adventure. Meet the animals and get an opportunity to feed them.
A one-day ticket costs $44.99. One-day admission to Wild Safari Drive-Thru costs $19.99. Parking is $35 per car.
Distance from NYC: 2 hours
1 Six Flags Dr.
Jackson Township NJ
Mon.-Fri., 10:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m.
Sat. & Sun., 10:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Wild Safari 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Online: sixflags.com
Escape the heat and plan the perfect daycation. Hang out with your favorite Nickelodeon characters including Dora, Blaze and Blue at the biggest indoor theme park in the Western Hemisphere. Need more to do? American Dream has a water park, an indoor ski slope, mini-golf courses, a LEGOland Discovery Center, a SEA LIFE Aquarium and more.
Tickets are available online. Admission for guests ages 10 and up start at $49 on non-peak days and vary between $59 – $89 on peak days. Admission for guests ages three to nine start at $44 on non-peak days and vary between $54- $85 on peak days. Buy a Dream Pass this season to take advantage of discounts when you buy a bundle.
Distance from NYC: 30 mins
Easy and convenient by public transportation.
1 American Dream Way
East Rutherford NJ
Mon.-Thurs., 12-8 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m., Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Online: americandream.com
Casino Pier is back and better than before with an amusement park, arcade and waterpark. Take in the views of the boardwalk and the Jersey shore with your family on the 40-meter Ferris Wheel. There are classic rides for every age and thrill level and admission is free. Kiddie rides need 2 to 3 credits per ride with credits costing $1.
You can also Soar over the ocean and experience the SkyCoaster or relax on the Sky Ride. Extend your stay and cool off at the Breakwater Beach Waterpark. Take a peek at their specials for discounts and events.
Rollercoasters, funnel cakes, waffle cones, hotdogs, oh my! Theme parks scream summer. If you’re looking for adventure on your next family vacation, theme parks offer rides and attractions but also old-timey activities, special events, character meet-and-greets and more. These mega Midwestern theme parks are packed with enough fun for at least a two-day stay and each is within driving distance from Chicago. One is located along a beach, another immersed in the Ozarks, and one is the summertime home of Santa Claus. Here are our picks for Midwestern theme parks worth the road trip from Chicago.
The lowdown Holiday World is a combo theme park and water park located in Santa Claus, IN, the summertime home of the Man in Red.
When this tiny town applied for its first post office in 1856, the application was refused as there was already a Santa Fe. The town then voted to change its name to Santa Claus in honor of the holiday hero. As a result, it receives thousands of letters addressed to Santa from around the world every holiday season.
Holiday World celebrates the holidays all summer long with its "four lands": Christmas, Halloween, Thanksgiving and Fourth of July. The Raven wooden coaster mimics a bird's acrobatic flight pattern in Halloween land. The Voyage in Thanksgiving land is widely considered one of the best wooden coasters for its 154 ft. vertical drop and is a tribute to the Mayflower's epic journey. The costumed character George the Eagle can often be spotted in Fourth of July land, where Holidog's FunTown 7 is encircled by the Holidog Express mini-train. Rudolph's Reindeer Ranch offers toddler-friendly rides like Comet's Rockets and Prancer's Merry-Go-Round in Christmas land.
Also on site is Splashin' Safari, a safari-themed water park home to two of the world's longest water coasters, Wildebeest and Guinness World Record Holder, Mammoth.
The lowdown 16 adrenaline-rushing roller coasters, including the 74mph Steel Vengeance, make Cedar Point the roller coaster capital of the world. For kids not quite ready to conquer the coasters, both Planet Snoopy and Camp Snoopy feature puppy-sized rides.
Nestled on a mile-long sandy stretch of beach on Lake Erie, Cedar Point has been thrilling visitors since it inaugurated its first ride, a water toboggan, in 1890, making it one of the oldest amusement parks in the U.S. It will likely take at least two days to conquer the park's 70+ rides spread out on over 364 acres of lakeshore.
Roller coaster fanatics love Cedar Point for its extreme roller coasters like the classic wooden Blue Streak and the steel-track Corkscrew with three inversions. Four designated kiddie areas have all the rides little ones love, like junior-sized bumper cars and two mini coasters that prep kids for the bigger coasters down the road.
Cedar Point also has an 18-acre water park and its very own beach, so you can cool off between rides.
Driving distance A little under 300 miles from Chicago
Entry fee $49.99/daily admission. The Cedar Point Pre-K Pass grants complimentary admission to ages 3-5.
Lodging Maximize your time by staying on-site at the historic Hotel Breakers, located steps from the park's main gate. The all-new Castaway Bay, a Caribbean-themed hotel with an indoor waterpark, debuted in 2022.
Don't Miss Start your day with a ride on the park's Cedar Point and Lake Erie Railroad, one of the last authentic coal-fired steam locomotives still in operation in the U.S.
The lowdown Silver Dollar City is a 61-acre theme park immersed in the Ozarks in the live entertainment capital of the U.S., Branson, MO. Themed to recreate the aura of a circa 1880s mining town, the park is centered around Marvel Cave, the deepest cave in Missouri at 500 ft. below surface level.
Silver Dollar City’s eleven "districts" offer 40 thrilling rides and attractions, live shows and concerts, specialty boutiques, and over 100 craftspeople demonstrating heritage arts and crafts such as blacksmithing and basketweaving. While some coasters cater to thrill-seekers above 52 inches, like Outlaw Run, a wooden coaster with a 720-degree double barrel roll, Half Dollar Holler is a play zone designed for ages 3-7.
In the dining department, Silver Dollar City goes beyond the standard (read: greasy) theme park fare with its 18 award-winning restaurants. While BBQ reigns, Silver Dollar City's beloved skillets mix fresh veggies and handcrafted sausages in a giant iron skillet over an open fire.
No visit to Silver Dollar City is complete without a visit to its natural wonder, Marvel Cave. You'll descend 700 steps as you travel below the surface to the Cathedral Room, the largest cave entrance room in the U.S. at 204 feet. You'll then descend even further as you follow sometimes narrow passageways to the cave's other rooms. A circa 1950s cable train takes visitors 1,070 feet back up to the surface at the end of the tour.
Driving distance 550 miles from Chicago. American Airlines also operates direct flights from Chicago ORD to nearby Springfield/Branson (SGF), MO.
Lodging Perched high above Table Rock Lake, Chateau on the Lake offers suites with outstanding views of the surrounding Ozarks. After a busy day at Silver Dollar City, unwind at the in-hotel Spa Chateau.
Don't miss Grandfather's Mansion is an off-the-beaten theme park path funhouse with slanting floors, wacky displays, and other dizzying effects.
If your kid’s idea of a good time includes hurtling toward concrete at 81 miles per hour, slurping frozen lemonade, and the occasional long line, skip the local playground and schlep the family out to one of these seven nearby theme parks. Whether they have a soft spot for Big Bird, a sweet tooth, or a need for speed, we’ve rounded up a list of amusement wonderlands that will kick start summer with screams of delight (plus insider tips to help you plan your next adventure).
Editor’s Note: To learn more about the accessibility programs at each of these parks, check out this guide.
Hersheypark More than “just” chocolate, the city of Hershey, PA also draws visitors for its famed amusement park with more than 70 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, the largest water-play structure in the world, live entertainment, games, food, shops, and even a simulated tropical rainforest where visitors learn how cocoa beans grow and are harvested. Ticket purchases include admission to ZooAmerica North American Wildlife Park, an 11-acre walk-through zoo that includes more than 200 animals from five regions of North America. New this year is the Jolly Rancher Remix, an illuminated coaster that randomizes its rides so each experience is unique. Hop onboard and loop through this track six times going forward and backward to different tunes and light shows. You never know which direction it will take! Located about two hours north of the Washington, DC area, the park has three resorts to choose from if you want to make a weekend of it!
Insider Tip: Take a break from park food and make a reservation at The Chocolatier, a family-style restaurant that offers hints of Hershey in lots of its dishes. You’ll find everything from chocolate drizzled potato chips to flatbreads with Hershey’s chocolate balsamic glaze and epic entrees like a Heath Bar crusted salmon and a burger topped with a Reece’s cup!
Six Flags America Boasting more than 100 rides, shows, and the largest water park in the DMV (included in the main park ticket price, no less!), Six Flags America does not disappoint. If you want to hop on one of the park’s epic coasters, like Wild One, Joker’s Jinx, Superman Ride of Steel, Batwing Coaster or Firebird, head there first (lines tend to grow as the day wears on). For a low-key thrills, younger kids will enjoy the classic Looney Tunes Prop Warehouse, a totally enclosed soft play space where they can climb, slide, and meet Bugs Bunny.
Insider Tip: Score 50% off the price of admission by purchasing your tickets online. Use promo code: COKE. Speaking of the classic soft drink, there is a Coca-Cola pavilion for those that want to cool off for free. Grab a sample of soda while your little ones rock out to the onsite DJ.
13710 Central Ave.
Upper Marlboro, MD Online: sixflags.com
King’s Dominion With 400 acres jam-packed with more than 60 rides, 15 roller coasters, live family entertainment—including fun performances by the Peanuts gang and a host of live music shows—AND a 20-acre water park, it just might be worth looking into one of the season pass options at King’s Dominion. The 43 life-size animatronic dinosaurs (including several you can control yourself) at the Dinosaurs Alive! Exhibit is alone worth the visit.
Insider’s Tip: Stay at one of the park’s hotels and you can enjoy a free shuttle to the parks. It will save you $!5 in parking!
Adventure Park USA Saddle up, pardner, for this Western-themed park near Frederick, Maryland—about 40 miles outside of DC. Open year-round, rain or shine, you don’t have to pay admission to enter the park itself. Instead, you purchase a Fun Pass with credits that works like a debit card (you can even add credits to your account online for return visits). With roller coasters, midway games, miniature golf, a classic tilt-a-whirl, go-karts, and a hands-on “mining” experience, you’ll be lucky if your kiddos have enough energy for all of the indoor fun. Yes, there’s more: a virtual reality game, soft playroom, ropes course, laser tag, arcade, bumper cars, and rock wall. We’re tired just typing that.
Insider Tip: If your crew has a wide gap in age, this is the park to hit. With the largest entertainment park in Maryland, the indoor games and arcades will keep the teens entertained for hours letting you help the youngest visitors board low-thrill rides like the carousel.
Dutch Wonderland If you’re on the hunt for the perfect first amusement park for young children, look no further. The park is tailored for children age 7 and younger, and at least seven of the rides are specifically geared toward 1-3 year-olds. Though the park is mostly flat and accommodating to strollers, it is relatively small—which means tiny legs (and short attention spans) can handle it. The Duke’s Lagoon splash area is just enough water excitement for the preschool set, and even the live entertainment strikes the not-too-loud and not-too-scary balance well. Rent a cabana for the day so your tribe has its own private spot in the shade to take a breather!
Insider Tip: Get three extra hours for free! All admission park tickets come with “preview” hours the day before your full-day admission. Between the hours of 3-6 p.m. get to know the park, map out your next day and hop on a few rides before the full day of fun begins!
Sesame Place We’re not gonna lie: nostalgia is half the draw for parents at Sesame Place. Enjoy a buffet meal with Elmo and friends, watch a show or parade, or take a spin on one of the 16 kid-friendly rides (or nine water rides) for a full day of fun with all your favorite neighborhood characters. There’s a soft play room for wee ones, a kid-powered railroad, a carousel, and the all-new Oscar’s Wacky Taxi Roller Coaster. We love and appreciate that Sesame Place has become the first theme park in the world designated as a Certified Autism Center—and, since it’ll require a trek to Philly, you can plan to enjoy the weekend there, too!
Insider Tip: Wake up early and have breakfast with the cast of Sesame Street! Early-bird reservations mean you have access to the park before it officially opens. Bonus: kids under 2 eat free.
Busch Gardens The beautiful landscaping and music playing throughout the park set the tone: this amusement park checks all the boxes. Roller coasters, a virtual reality adventure, bumper cars, kid-friendly rides (plus the Sesame Street Forest of Fun), a skyride, a train, and a huge range of music, animal, and theatrical live shows are just the beginning. Visit Wolf Valley, Lorikeet Glen, Highland Stables, or Eagle Ridge for some up close and personal animal encounters. And bring your appetite—there are restaurants throughout the park and 15 snack locations. You had us at churros!
Insider Tip: Sign up for a VIP Tour of the Verbolten and get early access to the park. Other tours include close encounters with the Clydesdales, a tour of a railroad steam engine, a meet and greet with the Busch Gardens animal specialist and more.
Southern Delaware is home to some of DC’s favorite beach destinations. With five family-friendly destinations to choose from, it can be hard to narrow the choices and pick which beach town is just right for your family. From kid-friendly eats to rainy day fun, we rounded up the best family activities in each destination to help you make the best choice. Once you settle on your home base, be sure to check out our guides to near-by Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, Dewey Beach and Fenwick Island for more fun things to see and do in Southern Delaware. For more information on Bethany Beach, read on.
About Bethany Beach
Bethany Beach is the less commercial cousin of Rehoboth Beach. You’ll find a similar strip of shops and upscale restaurants located on and near a much smaller boardwalk. Family is the focus in this town where much of the accommodations are home rentals. For those looking for digs with lots of perks, Sea Colony boasts 12 heated pools and many oceanfront condos for rent. There are also two hotels in town. Like Dewey, the beaches are broad here and offer plenty of room to run around. If you reach Bethany by way of Delaware, you’ll cross the Indian River Inlet Bridge which is fun to drive or walk over when it turns blue at night.
On either side of Indian River Inlet Bridge you’ll find Delaware Seashore State Park beaches ($10/out-of-state vehicles). Take a self-guided tour of the trails that meander through the area by scanning the QR code displayed on the trails. The Park offers a number of events and activities. One of the highlights is a weekly hike over the bridge (night hikes are available too) where a park interpreter discusses the bridge design as well as area history ($6/person). Impress older kids with a night hike when the bridge glows blue. Fun fact: this bridge illuminates the road with an electric blue color at night because, while most lights distract bats who hunt at night, bats are indifferent to the color blue. Pretty cool, right?
Related:Family-Friendly Things to See and Do in Lewes, DE
photo: SouthernDelaware.com
Get Wild
Take a break from summer crowds and head inland to explore Southern Delaware’s natural landscapes. Assawoman Wildlife Area is a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Bethany and offers peaceful trails, secluded picnic benches and calm bay waters that are easy to navigate by kayak. While you’re there, be sure to check out the Assawoman Lookout Point. From the watchtower you can view acres of wilderness. Use this free printable to play I-spy from the top (be on the lookout for rare birds who make this refuge home!).
Related:Why Fenwick Island Is the Perfect Location for Family Fun
The Bethany Beach trolley is fun on any day! Enjoy a breezy ride on a good beach day or spend a rainy day exploring the town by trolley. The trolley runs daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m and costs .25 per trip. Trolleys pick up at stops every 30 minutes, but you can flag the trolley down anywhere along the route! Don’t worry, the windows are sealed when it rains!
Hop off the trolley at the Bethany Beach Nature Center. At 10:30 a.m. every Sat. (rain or shine), the center hosts a Kid Nature Adventure filled with hands-on activities and projects to fill your morning with. Stop by on a sunnier day to explore their walking trails. To learn more about the center, check out this video.
Head to the boardwalk for waterfront dining and a free show every Thurs. night now-Aug. 31. The Bethany Boardwalk hosts live music acts starting at 7:30 p.m. in the bandstand on the boardwalk all summer long (you can catch live shows on Sat. evenings Sept.-Oct.). From upscale dining to quick bites, the boardwalk has something to please everyone’s palate. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, 99 Sea Level offers fine dining with a kids’ menu! Enjoy sweeping views of the ocean at this fish-based restaurant where your littles can enjoy kid favorites like chicken fingers and Mac & cheese. Mango’s also offers oceanfront dining in a much more laid-back atmosphere featuring Caribbean fare and a tropical vibe. Little Mangos can order a hot dog, chicken fingers or fried shrimp.
Related:The Best Kid-Friendly Eats and Attractions in Rehoboth Beach
Sea Colony is a massive complex of 70s era beachfront condos. If you’re looking for lodging packed with amenities, you’ll want to park your family here. There are 12 heated pools onsite, tennis courts and onsite activities and games. Enroll your kids in Kids Night Out any Mon. or Wed. all summer. Kids enjoy dinner and a movie while you get a night to enjoy the town sans children ($30/child). Other summer programs include Thurs. night bonfires, weekly movies on the beach, live music and scavenger hunts in the pool.
Make this Memorial Day Weekend one to remember with tons of family fun! Celebrate the start of summer by getting outside, being creative, and spending time with your loved ones. If you can’t figure out where to start, or need a bit of inspiration for this year’s long weekend, we’ve got you covered! Read on for 10 ways to spend your Memorial Day Weekend in Portland!
Perhaps your family is no stranger to the farmer’s market at PSU – regardless of your familiarity, make sure to hit up the vibrant stands selling a wide range of goods on Saturday, May 28th! This farmer’s market runs yearlong, but summer is surely the sweet time to get in on the action. Incorporate a visit to the PSU market into your plans this memorial day weekend!
Where: 1831 SW Pedestrian Trail, Portland OR When: May 28: 8:30 a.m. – 2p.m. Online: here
OMSI
Head to the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry this Memorial Day Weekend to explore the museum’s headliner exhibit: The World of Leonardo da Vinci ! You can spend time in their invention room, where you can build masts on boats to see what designs work best or head upstairs to learn about the anatomy of the human body! Check out their gift shop for fun toys and gadgets that will keep your little scientists wanting more!
Where: 1945 SE Water Ave., Portland OR Hours: Tue.- Sun. 9:30a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Online: here
The Arboretum
Take a stroll in nature, not too far from the city center! The Hoyt Arboretum, founded in 1928, has served as the perfect weekend getaway for nearly a hundred years. Whether you and the family are taking the beloved dog for a stroll, or planning a picnic, or simply out to enjoy nice weather, the Hoyt Arboretum is the right play to go. Relax with nature this Memorial Day Weekend when you and the family spend some time at Hoyt!
Are the kids bursting with energy? Let them tucker themselves out while you lounge on a bench of the Rose Garden Children’s Playground! This multi-level, imagination-abundant play space is exactly how your kids want to spend their Memorial Day Weekend. So let them go sliding down the various slides, swing on every swingset, and wipe themselves out with games of tag – just remember to bring a book for yourself!
The Oregon Zoo is a great way to spend a day of this Memorial Day Weekend! Supporting our local zoo means everything to the animals and the community that supports them. So grab the kids and head up to the zoo to meet the penguins, wave at the elephants, and see if you can catch a glimpse of the sea otters as they tumble about in their pool! Reserve your tickets online in advance, as timed entry is required. Where: 4001 SW Canyon Rd., Portland OR Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5:30 a.m. Online:oregonzoo.org
Pittock Mansion
Built in 1914, Pittock Mansion overlooks tremendous views of Portland that your family will want as the background of this memorial weekend photo op! Take the kids up to the hill on which the mansion sits to look over our beautiful city, and pack a lunch if the weather is nice! Afterward, take a stroll along some of the ground’s beautiful walkways or head into Washington Park’s network of trails for an afternoon stroll.
Spend an afternoon reflecting on the great sacrifices made by past neighbors, parents, and children alike. The Vietnam Veterans of Oregon Memorial was built in 1987 to honor those who have given themselves to protect us and the country we all call home. This semi-circle memorial offers space for reflection, appreciation, and understanding, and is a beautiful space to do such work this memorial day.
Get the family up-and-at-em on Memorial Weekend Saturday by heading down to the Saturday Market to support Portland’s local artists! Filled with stands selling delicious foods, wellness goods, home decor goods, clothing – you name it! – the Saturday market is a great way to inspire creativity or just spend some time outside. Plus, you can learn a few things from the friendly artists about how they make what they’re selling and how they got started!
Where: 2 SW Naito Pkwy., Portland, OR Hours: Every Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Online: Here
Forest Park
Need a bit of escape from the city? Take a drive to one of the many trailheads at Forest Park! Portland’s Forest Park is one of the biggest urban parks in America and has over 90 miles of trails. Fun fact, you could run a marathon on the Wildwood Trail! Start your trek at the beginning of the Wildwood, or stop in by McClay Park in northwest Portland. Either way, bring the right pair of shoes, a water bottle, and get ready for an awesome walk in Portland’s urban nature scene. Hours: Daily: 5 a.m. – 10 p.m. Online: forestparkconservancy.org
McMenamin’s Kennedy School
We have to include an activity for the adults, too! Luckily, McMenamin’s Kennedy School, located in northeast Portland, has things to do for the whole family. Grab a bite to eat, and a beer, at one of their breweries on campus, or explore the seemingly endless halls of the converted elementary school! Depending on the schedule, the Kennedy School routinely hosts live shows, and has a soaking pool so you can relax if the weather outside isn’t to your liking! Head online to check out what they have going on and plan your trip today! Where: 5736 NE 33rd Ave., Portland, OR Online: mcmenamins.com
Say goodbye to Austin, San Antonio and Houston and hello to Grand Prairie. Located in the heart of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, the top-ranked destination for family travel offers the complete Texas experience.
Just imagine: the wonders of Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! to the splashing good times at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, and a food scene filled with family-friendly restaurants everyone will enjoy. Get your family ready for pickleball competitions at Chicken N Pickle, tranquil cabins ready to host crews of any size at Lloyd Park, and outdoor events boasting live music and collections of local goods.
There’s no better place to have an effortlessly awesome getaway, so make your next family vacation grand in Grand Prairie!
Texas-Sized Play
Texas’ famous adage, “Everything is bigger in Texas,” rings true when visiting Grand Prairie’s local attractions. Enjoy a days’ worth of thrills and splashes at Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark, an 80,000 square-foot water park that features a retractable roof, 11 massive water slides and an outdoor wave pool.
Try your hand at pickleball (badminton, tennis and ping-pong all combined into one sport) at the indoor/outdoor entertainment complex Chicken N Pickle. Don’t leave without trying their wood-fired rotisserie chicken dishes that’ll have you craving it for weeks to come.
World-Class Shopping
Step aside New York City, Grand Prairie’s Asia Times Square is where it’s at. As one of the largest Asian markets in the state and ranked number one for best food court in Dallas by the Dallas Observer, the shopping center is a hub for eastern dishes and goods.
For shopping that’ll give 5th Avenue competition, head to the Grand Prairie Premium Outlets and have access to over 100 different premium stores. We recommend the open-air market, Traders Village. As America’s number one marketplace, it features more than 3,500 vendors on a 161-acre site. Come for the aisles upon aisles of shopping but stay for its exhilarating amusement park, Prairie Playland.
Wow-Worthy Gastronomy
Nothing is more synonymous with the Lone Star State than BBQ–and a trip to Grand Prairie without a pit stop at Zavala’s Barbeque should be considered a crime. Listed as one of the top 50 Best BBQ joints by Texas Monthly, Zavala’s is slinging brisket, boudin, burgers, tacos and more.
To continue eating your way through town, add these mouth-watering showstoppers to your list: The Pearl, a Dim Sum Restaurant at Asia Times Square, Firehouse Gastro Park located in the town’s original #1 Fire Station and the newly rebranded Blue Sunshine Patio Bar & Grill at Joe Pool Lake.
Sports, Sports and More Sports
From football, baseball and basketball to soccer, hockey and boxing, there’s no denying that Texans love their sports…and sports complexes. For an action-packed horse-racing experience coupled with lively entertainment, schedule an outing at the Lone Star Park from April through July during the annual Triple Crown season.
Early this year, Grand Prairie will also become home to the state’s newly-formed franchise of Major League Cricket and serve as a base for the USA Cricket National team. Keep an eye out for an epic and monumental debut.
Unforgettable Shows and Live Music
For electrifying concerts and performances that the whole family will enjoy, add the Epic Theater, Uptown Theater and Texas Trust CU Theatre to your itinerary and revel in its seasonal lineup. Looking to show your kiddos what real music is all about? Stop into Forever Young Records, Texas’ largest music store. The storefront’s jukebox-designed exterior is a sight to see and serves as a wonderful photo op to commemorate your family vacation.
Speaking of photo ops, don’t leave town without stopping by Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! This unique venue features five attractions all under one roof. Come face to face with lifelike figures from Hollywood, the old west, history, childhood fantasy and more. Selfies are encouraged!
Get started on booking your trip to Grand Prairie. For more information about restaurants, lodging, activities and more, head to visitgrandprairietx.com.
Atlanta moms, we’d like to introduce you to your tribe. Atlanta moms with a knack for everything from DIY home projects to fashion to food—with a healthy dose of humor, local Atlanta flair, and parenting truths in the mix—are winning in the Blogoshphere. For the inside scoop on unique places in Atlanta, bike trails nearby, exhibits to hit,museums to explore and more around town, you’re going to want to give them a follow. Keep reading for our favorite Atlanta mom bloggers and bestie candidates, below.
365 Atlanta Travel Lesli Peterson, Owner/Founder, mom of two, has traveled her entire life, living in multiple states and several countries. She relishes the discovery of obscure, offbeat and unwonted places, and she will chat up any willing stranger to uncover a new secret locale. Her content includes easily readable travel topics and plenty of inside scoop on local color.
The Fairytale Traveler Christa Thompson is an Atlanta mom who created the popular travel and lifestyle blog in its tenth year. Her travel pieces are based on travel tips, life, budgeting, motherhood, products, reviews, gadgets, gift guides, film, music, live shows, and books that have to do with fairytale locations or locations with a fairytale aesthetic.
Simply SabrinaSabrina Molu, the charming and witty voice behind Hey Simply, is a born & bred Atlantan with a creative soul and a love of storytelling. Hey Simply is a blog that serves as a modern-day advice column for millennial women of color who are undergoing major life changes like graduating, moving into their own places, settling down with a partner, and learning how to adult. Sabrina is a new mom.
Life, Family & Fun Find inspiring ideas for making the most of life and having lots of family-focused fun. This platform brings to you plenty of ideas for getting creative with your own family, ranging from DIY projects, home decor inspiration, recipe suggestions, travel ideas and even some perspectives on parenting.
Savvy Mama Lifestyle Kimberly is an Atlanta family travel blogger who features lifestyle content as well. As a mom of three boys, she chronicles how every day feels like an adventure. Her husband is her photographer and together, they’re showing our kids the beauty of travel and creating an amazing home life.
Mimosas and MotherhoodSiobhán is an author of the lifestyle blog, a boy mama to her two under three, Archer and Grey, and wife to Matthew. Mimosas & Motherhood is a family and lifestyle blog, but not your typical mom blog! She created this blog as a way to encourage and uplift other women. She loves sharing much of her everyday life with you, and focus on motherhood (pregnancy, postpartum and parenting), easy recipes, fun DIY projects and more. Siobhán also teaches other women how to launch their own money-making blogs and make a real income as content creators.
Handmade Charlotte Rachel and Jonathan Faucett live on a farm in Dallas, Georgia, have five children, and started an Etsy shop in 2009 that has turned into a collaboration with Anthropologie, and one of the nation’s top 20 most influential Pinterest accounts. Visit this site for eye-candy inspiration on crafts, games, and lifestyle ideas for fun.
Southern State of Mind Mom of three boys, Heather Metzler manages the chaos with class, bringing tips and inspo for fashion, home decor, and DIY projects to you in a fresh and creative blog.
City PeachWhen Atlanta native Mireille Beckwith moved home from New York, she brought a passion for helping others look chic on a budget. As a mom of two, she specifically focuses on helpings mom do what they do, but with some serious style. Even better? She dedicates posts to kids style, as well.
In Honor of DesignOriginally a graphic designer, mom of 7, Anna has a fresh take on style, motherhood, and home design. Spoiler alert: the family recently moved to Nashville, but you can still mine her blog for Atlanta insights.
Really, Are You Serious?Mom of three girls, Krystyn is a former chemist and current graphic designer–in addition to running the totally awesome Really, Are You Serious? This blog is a great resource for Mommy and Me outing ideas, giveaways, family events, and straight talk about life with young (and willful!) kids.
Field Trips with SueSusan Rodman is the mother of three boys and her award winning blog is all about things to do with kids in and around metro Atlanta and the Southeast. In addition to tons of other awards, this blog is a Nickelodeon Parent’s Pick winner and a Parents.com award nominee. When Sue is not scouting new adventures, she works in marketing and public relations and serves on the marketing committee at Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta.
Sweet Savant Demetra Overton is a food and travel blogger extraordinaire, and brings her skills as a graduate of the Institute of Culinary Education and her experience at the likes of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Buckhead to a table set for families. Her recipes are soulful, sophisticated, and sometimes aspirational, but you can learn as much about cooking technique as you can about what to make for supper from her informative blog.
Mommy’s HangoutMom Jen started her blog as a way to do her own sweepstakes and giveaways and to offer honest opinions and reviews on products her family has tried. Her blog also includes money and health tips and candid talk about parenting.
Awed by Monica Fashionistas, this one’s for you! Monica Awe-Etuk sums up her philosophy better than we can: “Fashion is important because we live in a society that judges women based on appearance. Unfortunately, that will never change. I have noticed that when people look good, they actually feel great. If we have more people feeling great about themselves, the world can be a better place.” Check out her blog for tips on how to elevate your mommy uniform game.
The Divine Miss MommyStacie Haight Connerty, a self professed tech geek, foodie and social media junkie is the mother of three children ages 9, 7 and 5. On her fab blog, you can find the latest products reviews, giveaways, and stories about her family plus information about their latest travels.
Domestic Superhero What started as cooking for the 4 children she nannied for in New York has turned into a passion for creating elegant meals in a short amount of time (because, well, kids). In addition to recipes and meal ideas, Allyson posts about DIY home projects and travel.
JaMonkeyMeghan Cooper, the voice behind JaMonkey, blogs about things like pregnancy, parenting, recipes, crafting, product reviews, and life as a suburban hippy. She is also the creator of Yeah Let’s Go Atlanta.
Atlanta on the CheapThis blog is a fantastic resource for families looking for free things to do in Atlanta. Mom Jennifer scours the ‘net to find the best deals, discounts, and coupons for the city’s attractions, theatre, restaurants and bars.
Mamalicious MariaMaria Smith is an on the go “stay at home” mother of 4 kids under the age of 6. In her pre-baby life, she was a TV producer at Oprah, and she has been featured as a “mom” expert on ABC World News, CBS and NBC affiliates, and in Ladies Home Journal, Women’s Day, and The Nest. She blogs about fashion, food, events around town, and more.
Turning the Clock BackThis fab blog is devoted to teaching people to go green, get healthy and simplify their lives through recipes, shopping tips, and more. Mom blogger Diane has worked in cancer research, academics, and biotechnology, among other things. With her blog, she hopes to create a down to earth guide to going green and getting healthy one baby step at a time.
Coupons Are GreatThe title of this blog says it all–and it truly is a great resource for all things thrifty. In addition to freebies, deals, and coupons, the site also has fun craft ideas. The mom behind it all, Leandrea, also loves to explore the Atlanta area with her two daughters.
Jumpin BeansIn addition to being an army wife, blogger Noelle is mom to a preschooler and several stepsons in their tweens/teens. On her blog, she offers great giveaways, reviews of kids products, advice for busy parents, and more.
Spring is here, and it’s a great time to head to a zoo, aquarium or even a farm outside the city. From an arty farm on the Upper East Side to stellar petting zoos great for little ones, aquariums and the world-class Bronx Zoo, we’ve rounded up the best places in the city to talk to (and often touch!) the animals. FYI: The cost of admission to many of these can add up, which is why a WCS membership is one of the best values in town. Also note that you’re going to need to reserve tickets in advance for most of these destinations.
photo: Wai Sze Zara
Petting Zoos Within Zoos
There is a children’s zoo at each of NYC’s four great zoos; a dedicated space carved out specifically for little ones, where they can explore at their own place. They can meet, touch and feed a variety of domestic animals.
The Central Park Zoo’s Tisch Children’s Zoo
Yes, there is a zoo right in the middle of New York City, and it’s great! Upon entering, kids are free to climb, crawl and roam free. Then they can get a hands-on experience with some familiar animals like pot-bellied pigs, goats, sheep and also some not so familiar like the zebu, the Patagonian cavy or the mini Nubian goat. No matter how many times you visit. Zoo admission includes a bonus 4-D theatre experience.
Tickets: adults/$20; 3-12/$15; 65 and up/$17; two and under/free.
Southeast corner of Central Park
830 5th Ave. (64th Street and 5th Avenue)
Online: centralparkzoo.com
The Queens Zoo’s Domestic Animals This charming area is located just across from the main entrance of the zoo. Its farm-like environment features animals like the Jacobs Four-Horned sheep, the Belted Galloway cow as well the adorable Flemish Giant rabbit.
Tickets: adults/$10; kids 3-12/$7; seniors/$8; two and under/free
53-51 111th St.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Online: queenszoo.com
Prospect Park Zoo Barn & Garden Be ready to fill up little hands with some grain so that they can feed the friendly barnyard animals like the alpacas, sheep, pigs and the zebu. Plan your visit here. Don’t miss the sea lion feeding which happens three times a day.
Insider Tip: The only (people) food available at the zoo comes from vending machines, so be sure to pack lunch.
Tickets: adults/$10; kids 3-12/$7; 65 and up/$8; two and under/free
450 Flatbush Ave.
Prospect Park
Online: prospectparkzoo.com
Staten Island Zoo This is a cozy but very manageable little zoo filled with interesting animals to see including capybaras, leopards, Onyx the binturong, Gregory the fennec fox, Polly the pig and Benny the resident Sloth. In past years, the zoo has held a sheep-shearing event. This usually happens right in the beginning of Spring when sheep are ready to retire their Winter coat. Check the calendar to stay informed.
Reservations can be made in advance but are not necessary to enter. Please review current Covid guidelines before visiting.
Open daily 10a.m.-4:45p.m. (Weds. 2p.m.-4p.m./free for all)
Tickets: 15 and up/$10; 60 and up/$7; 3-14/$6 ; two and under/free
614 Broadway
Online: statenislandzoo.org
Bronx Zoo A game plan is recommended in advance when visiting the largest zoo in the country. With that said, the Children’s Zoo is a must-visit and worth the extra $6 fee. Get up close to a giant anteater, two-toed sloth, South American squirrel monkeys and so many more gentle and ready-to-be-fed and touched animals.
You can also climb to new heights here. There are two options for climbing enthusiasts: the Treetop Adventure course and zipline experience as well as the Nature Trek more suitable for little ones. Be sure to schedule into your plan animal feeding times and energy for more activities including a ride on the Wild Asia Monorail, the Bug Carousel and more. A complete guide is here.
Tickets: 13 and up/$31; kids 3-12/$23; seniors/$29; two and under/free
2300 Southern Blvd.
Online: bronxzoo.com
photo: The Art Farm
The Art Farm NYC Learn and play at this USDA-licensed indoor space located right on the Upper East Side. The Art Farm was recently renovated to include new play and party spaces, and children can feed and snuggle up with some lovable animals in The Art Farm NYC’s petting zoo. There are a variety of classes to engage children that includes art, music, creative play and even cooking. Join for open play or register for a program. This is also a great place to throw a birthday party. Good to know: You can join a free trial before you commit to a class.
419 E. 91st Street (between York & 1st Ave.)
Upper East Side
212-410-3117
Online: theartfarms.org
photo:Julie Larsen Maher
New York City Area Aquariums
New York Aquarium The New York Aquarium is must-see destination on Coney Island’s celebrated boardwalk. All the more reason to go now: the aquarium just debuted its new interactive imaginaton space “Playquarium,” (shown here) where young children can explore a kelp forest, coral reef, and the sandy shore—and transform themselves into a shark, a sardine, or a whale. Other creatures to check out here: spineless animals featuring pacific octopus, moon jellies and zombie worms, “Ocean Wonders: Sharks!” where you are inches away (but protected) from sharks, sea turtles, and more. Use your imagination and “snorkel” at Glover’s Reef where you’ll see colorful fish galore, then take in a sea lion show at the Aquatheater and say hello to the latest sea lion pups Ruby and Deno. Visit with penguins, sea otters and seals, all of which like to hang out at the Sea Cliffs. Read our full guide to the New York Aquarium here.
Tickets: 13 and up/$25; 3-12/$20; 65 and over/$22; two and under/free. Get “Value Admission” tickets, which can be used on Wednesdays.
Surf Ave. & W. 8th St.
Coney Island
718-265-3474
Online: nyaquarium.com
photo: Wai Sze Zara
Long Island Aquarium
One of our picks for a fun spring day trip from NYC, this aquarium features one of the largest all-living, closed-system Coral Reef displays in the Western hemisphere. There are 800 types of fish and other marine life to look at, and the aquarium makes use of both indoor and outdoor spaces. You’ll find a variety of animals including reptiles, otters, penguins and porcupines, as well as jellyfish, eels, butterflies, bugs, seahorses and birds. Want to interact with bugs? How about a treetop adventure or taking a selfie with a penguin or sea lion? All these experiences and more can be planned ahead of time here. (Some are seasonal and extra fees apply.) Remember to check out the events of the day so you don’t miss out on the sea lion, penguin or shark tank learn and feed sessions. Don’t leave without visiting the touch tank including the Ray Bay to see and touch stingrays up close. Hot tip: You can visit on your birthday for free(visit within 7 days of your actual birthdate).
Tickets: 13-61/$40; 3-12/$28; 62 and up/$30; two and under/free
431 E. Main St.
Riverhead
631-208-9200 x426
Online: longislandaquarium.com
photo: Gennessy Palma
Guided Birdwatching in NYC Parks
Despite being a major metropolis, NYC attracts plenty of feathered friends, especially to its parks, and the city offers lots of resources to get out and see the birds in their natural habitat. Check out our full guide to bird-watching with kids in NYC.
New York City parks offer a fantastic and free birding program. The guided tours are led by the Urban Park Rangers who are eager and excited to share their knowledge. These tours are offered seasonally and different birds can be spotted depending on the time of the tour. Tip: Urban Park Rangers also offer a variety of other free events. See the full calendar of programs and activities for more information.
NYC Audubon
NYC Audubon is a grassroots community with a mission to protect and conserve the birds in the NYC area. They offer guided bird tours in many of our parks including Central Park, Governors Island, Inwood Hill Park and even Oyster Bay in Long Island. Registration and fees information can be found here for current offerings.
Visit the Prospect Park Audubon Center which is the first urban area Audubon center in the nation. Led by a member of the Brooklyn Bird Club, free Introduction to birdwatching tours allow visitors of all ages to partake in their nature-centric activities. (Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult)
Prospect Park Audubon Center
95 Prospect Park West
Prospect Lefferts Gardens
718-965-8951
Online: prospectpark.org
Wave Hill
This Bronx institution hosts birding events throughout the year, which provide great opportunities to see migratory birds heading through, as well as ones that stay in town. Fees include admission to the grounds. Note: Birders of all levels are welcome but must be ages 10 and up and with an adult.
Wave Hill
1 W. 249th St. and Independence Avenue
718-549-3200
Bronx
Online: wavehill.org
Animal Farms Near NYC
Silverman’s Farm Visit this farm to see small creatures like bunnies to the big fellows like buffaloes, emus and long-horn cattle. Bring some coins to purchase animal feed because feeding and petting is encouraged. (Read and adhere to the Family Farm rules before visiting.) Pick your own fruit is available later in the year. Stop by the country market for some farm favorites like fresh-pressed apple cider, local honey, 16 different kinds of pies and more.
Stamford Museum and Nature Center
Experience what life is like on a small New England Farm. The Hecksher Farm features a variety of animals including cows, a chicken coop, a pigpen, llamas and more. Interested in getting a hands-on learning experience? Visit Hecksher’s Wild for a chance to touch a furry Chinchilla or meet the resident tortoise who is currently 48 years old. This exhibit is jammed packed with more exotic animals including tarantulas, lizards and snakes just to name a few. Remember to get a schedule of the day’s events to see if there are any demonstrations or feedings available. Besides animals, the nature center also features a fun playground, wheelchair-accessible walking trail, a museum and more. Please take a look at the Center’s safety guidelines before visiting.
Tickets: adults/$14; 4-17/$8; 65 and up/$12; three and under/free; students 18+ with ID/$10
Open daily (except major Winter holidays); Heckscher Wild! open Tues.-Sun. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
39 Scofieldtown Rd.
Stamford, CT (Main entrance)
203-977-6521
Online:Stamford Museum and Nature Center
photo: Wai Sze Zara
Long Island Game Farm Wildlife Park & Zoo Visit the largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on Long Island. They are committed to providing a natural playground for their animals using reclaimed materials from storm-damaged trees and bringing new life to used materials. Get up close and meet wild creatures like their newest marsupial, the wallabies. Meet with the zookeeper to learn about the zebra, (Zephry the Zebra may be expecting soon) camel, lemur and others. Spring is the best time to see the mommy goats with their newborns and guests are encouraged to feed a variety of animals including llamas, goats, deerpark and the miniature Sicilian donkey. Bobo the giraffe, a favorite, returns this spring and will be turning two this year.
Tickets: adults 13-61/$25; kids 3-12/$19; 62 and up/$22; two and under/free
Weekends, 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
250 Old Country Rd.
631-351-9373
Manorville, NY
Online: longislandgamefarm.com
White Post Farms There’s lots to experience at White Post Farm’s Animal Farm. Observe squirrel monkeys in the primate enrichment barn. Step into Ronnie’s bird landing or Poppie’s Lorikeet Landing where exotic birds are free to fly and feed off your hand with either a special birdseed stick or sweet nectar. Visit Grant’s Zebra and wave hello to Patches and Ollie at the giraffe observation deck (that latter is only open when temperatures are above 60 degrees). There are colorful Budgies, Cockatiels and Lovebirds to meet, pony rides, a Koi pond, a train to ride and even shows to watch. While you are allowed to bring in food (no hard coolers please) the farm market serves up a great selection of sandwiches, soups and salads. (We love the banana bread.) Covid protocol is here. Check out the Facebook page for seasonal events and up-to-date information.
Tickets: $21(packages available at an additional rate)
250 Old Court Rd.
Melville, NY
631-351-9373
Online: animalpettingzoo.com
Mark Your Calendars for these Fall Favorites
The Tompkins Square Dog Run Halloween Parade
Typically held in the week or two leading up to Halloween, The Tompkins Square Dog Run Halloween Parade is a spectacular event where hundreds of dogs get the opportunity to dress up in their wildest, fanciest or wackiest costume. It is so popular that it has garnered worldwide coverage and has been called “the largest dog costume parade in the world!” It’s a must-see experience!
The Yearly Blessing of the Animals
The Yearly Blessing of the Animal is observed annually on October 4th. Several churches designate this day to celebrate and honor the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. The most renowned blessing is hosted by the Cathedral of St. John the Divine in Morningside Heights. Animals are brought forth to get their blessings and it’s a very special event. Check their calendar or follow them on facebook to stay tuned for event updates. (Also, check your local Catholic church to see if they are observing this celebration.)
Cathedral of St. John the Divine
1047 Amsterdam Ave.
Morningside Heights
Online: stjohndivine.org
Plan your next sunny day at Sesame Place, San Diego’s newest theme park located in Chula Vista. BYO towels and plan to get wet at one of the 11 featured water play zones—water slides, a splash playground and a lazy river just to name a few. Stay dry on eight theme-park rides that will take you up, but not too high. Little kids will love the tot-sized roller coaster and rockin’ rockets.
Sesame Place is a Certified Autism Center and offers specialized services for guests with autism and other special needs for every family to enjoy their visit. Sing and dance at live shows or parades, soak up the sun from your private cabana or skip the lines with the Magic Queue! This guide is full of tips and insider info with your sneak peek into the all-new Sesame Place. Take a look and get ready for some fun!
Slip, slide and ride your way around Sesame Place on “wet” and “dry” rides. You’ll definitely want to plan on getting wet since there are 11 water feature rides and 8 theme-park style rides at Sesame Place. Each has its own height requirement for kids to either ride alone or with an adult. Plan ahead by printing out a map of the park and write your kid’s initials next to the rides they’re tall enough for. This will save you time so you’ll know which areas to head straight for.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Plenty of outdoor shower rinse stations and open-air changing stalls with doors are available. These are in the center of the park.
Skip the line and add on the Magic Queue pass for priority ride access, starting at $19.99/person.
Everyone from babies to adults will find a water feature they can splash about in. Most of the water rides have a minimum height requirement of 42”. There are four rides for kiddos under 42”: Big Bird’s Rambling “Lazy” River, Big Bird’s Beach wave pool, Elmo’s Silly Sand Slides and Abby’s Paradise children’s pool. Lifeguards are stationed everywhere so there will be lots of extra eyes keeping everyone safe.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Some water activities for smaller kids require life jackets. These are provided free of charge in all sizes and for all ages who wish to wear them.
Get your thrills on the dry side of the park from Elmo’s Rockets and Super Grover’s Box Car Derby, or a mellow delight from a spin around the Sunny Day Carousel or the Rub-A-Dub Submarine. Most mechanical rides are good for small children, with only three of them requiring heights of 36” or 38” tall to ride.
GOOD TO KNOW:
They offer a “rider child swap” when a ride doesn’t allow a parent to ride with all of their children at the same time due to limited ride seats. The adult can ride with one child, while the other child waits at the front of the line. When the ride is complete the adult can then ride again with the other child while the first child waits aside.
Make time to explore the real Sesame Street Neighborhood; it’s filled with fun surprises for littles to find. Ring Bert & Ernie’s doorbell, look at Elmo’s window and you may see him singing and dancing, push their apartment number buttons in the right order to hear what the gang is up to, pop bubbles at the laundromat and most importantly “don’t knock” on Oscar’s trash can…or should you? This area is perfect for littles because all of the buttons and activities are just at their height.
TIPS:
Time your visit to this street with Big Bird’s daily storytime; just look for all the birdhouses and you can’t miss his BIG nest. While you’re nearby, pop into the green room around the corner for photos with Elmo and friends.
Sing and dance every day with Sesame Street friends as they put on their biggest welcome show at the Sesame Street Theater. Watch Big Bird dance down the street every afternoon with all of his friends in a high-energy musical parade that will have you shaking your hips or at least bobbing your head along. Track down Sesame Street friends to find them wandering about ready to meet you and take photos together. Plan out the year to include holiday shows for The Count’s Halloween Spooktacular (Sept. 17 – Oct. 30) or A Very Furry Christmas Celebration (Nov. 12 – Dec. 31).
GOOD TO KNOW:
Reserve upfront spots for the daily shows and parade for the best views. Add these online, at the entrance or from the app. Reserved seating starts at $4.99/person.
Six different food options are available to fill you up with everything from quick snacks to meals and of course cookies! You’ll find hamburgers (Impossible burgers too), chicken sandwiches, salads and wraps from various walk-up windows or grab-n-go food stands selling popcorn, hot dogs and soda. For extra hot days, the Dippin’ Dots or Icees will help cool you down.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Look for the Starbucks stand for your caffeine fix; it’s just to the left after you enter.
Outside food, beverages and coolers are NOT allowed inside the park, except for a bottle of water or refillable water bottle (bottle filling stations are inside). Exceptions are made for special diets, allergies and baby food.
Upgrades, rentals and extra supplies can make the difference from a fun day to a great day! From cabanas to lockers and strollers to diapers, find out what and where to go for that extra mile.
Rent a cabana for an easy way to keep everyone and everything together. With a cabana rental the food service will come to you and you’ll get access to a private Abby’s Paradise Pool. Score! Cabana rentals start at $149.
Locker rentals are a great way to keep your things secure without worrying about where they are. Choose from small, medium or large and you’ll have access to open and close it all day long.
Stroller rentals are available in single and double and make a great way to keep your kids and your things all together. It might be helpful for kiddos who nap to take a little break and rest their feet as you chase bigger kiddos around the park. Wheelchair and electric scooter rentals are available too.
Sesame Souvenirs has you covered if you forget anything or need extras like swim diapers, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, water shoes, towels, t-shirts, swimsuits and of course souvenirs!
Photographers will be on hand to capture special memories since your camera might be locked away for the day. They’ll give you a QR code card that you can order from the Park Photo Center before you leave. (Photos are only available to see inside the park; there’s no online viewing or purchase access after you leave the park.)
123 Trade With Me is where you’ll find Sesame Place trading pins!
Sesame Place is a Certified Autism Center, which means that all of its employees have been specially trained and provide extra services to guests with autism and other disabilities Sensory ride guides are posted at each ride to indicate how the ride might affect sensory issues. Rider Accessibility Program allows guests to develop a ride match program with park assistance. Quiet rooms, noise-canceling headphones for shows and low-sensory play areas are also available in the park (look for Rosita’s Harmony Hills, next to Big Bird’s Beach).
Head straight to guest services where you’ll find many hidden gems that could help save the day. The Baby Care Center provides a quiet place for feeding babies and bottle warming. The First Aid station could help with any scrapes or bumps. This is where “Lost Parents” will reunite with children brought over by staff members. You can also get a Cashless Wristband to load up $50 to show at food services for payment instead of bringing your wallet around. The best thing from here might just be the waterproof ID wristbands you can get for free that will help staff members identify your child in case of emergency.
Here’s what to know before you go…how much, how long and where to park are all the answers to help you figure out how to make this day happen.
COST: Admission includes wet and dry rides, shows, parades and open lounge chairs. Single-day tickets start at $64.99 online, parking is not included. Season Passes start at $132 online and do include parking. Kids ages 23 months and younger are free, so kids ages 24 months and up need a ticket/pass.
PARKING: General parking is $35 per car, while up-close parking ranges from $35-$50 per car and varies by day.
HOURS: Hours vary but are generally from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on weekends with extended hours during the summer. They’re generally only open for weekends, holidays and school breaks; with a closure between January-March. Operating Dates for 2022 are Mar. 26 – Dec. 31.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Tickets are not refundable, but you can change the date by calling customer service.
Make sure you’re on the correct website for the location you want to visit. The Philadelphia and San Diego websites are very similar, without much reference for which location (look at the web address if you’re not sure).
TIPS:
Plan your day before you go by checking ride heights, ride locations and any extra upgrades you might want to add on.
Buy tickets online before you go (they’re cheaper online and you won’t have to wait in line).
Download the Sesame Place app. You can access showtimes, character visits, ride heights, reserved seating and more.
It’s a brand new year, so let’s think of all the things we can do to make it a fun adventure. Step into the world of Van Gogh in San Diego, inspire your mini-mogul to pitch an idea at the Kidpreneur Expo and catch as many live shows as you can. We’re looking forward to enjoying all the fun San Diego has in store for us in 2022.
Beyond Van Gogh Comes to San Diego
Immersive Van Gogh
It's finally here! You may have seen photos from Beyond Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience exhibit popping up on friends' social media over the last year as it debuted in other cities like San Francisco, Los Angles, and New York in 2021, and on January 14th it kicks off in San Diego. The visually-striking achievement invites audiences to step inside post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh’s most incredible works of art. This exhibit is only around until the beginning of March, so get your tickets reserved now. Event details.
Disney On Ice: Dream Big
Disney on Ice
The Magic of Disney (on ice!) is coming to San Diego. Sail away with favorite Disney friends such as Mickey, Minnie, Miguel, Moana, Elsa, Belle, Genie, and more highlighting all the magic and adventure of Disney’s tales through world-class figure skating. Event details.
Kidpreneur Expo
Calling all kidpreneurs! Mark your calendar for January 29th and start thinking of your most creative idea for a product or service. Kids in elementary (starting at age 5) through high school will have the opportunity to win cash prizes for the best pitch, best presentation, and more. Real-life investors will be on-site and kidpreneurs will have the opportunity to seek additional funding for investment. Workshops will be held throughout the day and led by small business owners and small business development experts. A fun chance for kids to embrace their passion, funnel their creative energy and show off their talents and skills. Event details.
We're so happy to see live shows return in 2022. San Diego's youth theater has a full lineup of shows in 2022 including The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical and The Jungle Book. See their full schedule here.
The Moonlight Amphitheater is promising its biggest lineup of broadway shows ever including a contemporary Cinderella and Memphis. For details and tickets, click here.
