And you thought it was just about baseball. Whether your sluggers are obsessed with the Braves or your family is just looking for a fun way to spend a summer afternoon, a trip to Truist Park delivers. From a cutting-edge kids’ area in the stadium to a splash pad on your way out of it (not to mention the baby changing tables in every restroom), you’ll be singing Take Me Out to the Ball Game all summer long. Keep reading for our favorite things you won’t want to miss about a trip to Truist Park.

Truist Park Kids Zone

Gregg N. via Yelp

Hope & Will's Sandlot, presented by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, is a state-of-the-art kids' zone with a rock-climbing wall, zipline, carnival games, and more. You'll find it in sections 152-155. Games and attractions require a token to play, which can be purchased in the Sandlot for $1 each. 

Home Run: Kids 14 and under can enjoy interactive games and experiences in Hope & Will's Sandlot at no charge, every Sunday.

Kids Club

Jeff A. via Yelp

Kids ages 3-14 can gear up like the pros and get exclusive offers for Braves games and events all year long by joining the Kids Club. The All-Star Membership is $34 and includes Ozzie AlbiesT-Shirt Jersey, headband, arm sleeve, socks, drawstring bag, and more. Or, opt for the free Braves Rookie Membership and get invitations to exclusive Kids Club access-only events. Memberships can be purchased online or at Truist Park during a game day.

Home Run: After every Sunday home game, kids ages 4-14 are invited onto the field after the game to run the bases just like a professional baseball player. No reservations are necessary—just line them up at the 3rd base ramp (section 131) at the bottom of the 7thinning. If you join the All-Star Kids Club, you can gain VIP Access to Kids Run the Bases, but you don't have to be a member to participate on Sunday's base runs. 

Food

Tiff H. via Yelp

First things first: outside food and sealed plastic bottles of water are allowed inside Truist Park as long as it fits inside a clear, gallon-sized plastic bag. One bag of food and one bottle of water per ticket will be permitted, which can save families headed to see the Braves play a considerable amount of money. Or, choose among some of Atlanta's best restaurants just outside the park, in The Battery. 

Home Run: If you spring for buying food from the vendors at Truist Park, we love the H+F Burger in the outfield and behind home plate. And for dessert, don't miss an opportunity to have a High Road Craft tomahawk bar, which is dipped in chocolate and topped with mouth-watering toppings. 

 

Potty & Nursing Room

Joe P. via Yelp

Finally! Somebody gets it! There are diaper changing stations In. Every. Bathroom. At. Truist. Park. If this doesn't make you a Braves fan, I'm not sure what will. Luckily, it's not the only reason to get behind Atlanta's hometown team. Family restrooms are found in sections 120, 143, 140, 148, 152, 313, 323, 329 and 346.

Home Run: Truist Park offers a lounge that is a fully dedicated space for nursing mothers that's staffed by a Guest Services ambassador. Located on the lower level near the left-field gate at section 141, the air-conditioned nursing lounge is equipped with comfortable rocking chairs, a diaper changing station, and a play area for toddlers.

 

Mizuno Glove Rental

Ben Hershey via Unsplash

If you forget to bring your glove for trying to catch a foul ball (or home run), you can rent a Mizuno glove at two locations in the ballpark. Glove rentals are free but a $1 charge is added to your card until the glove is returned. The glove must be returned by end of the game or you will be charged the entire cost of the glove. 

Home Run: For your best bet to catch a ball, the Home Run Porch seats can be found just beyond the outfield wall running between the left-field foul pole and the start of the Chophouse seats in right-center. Not only are these seats some of the most affordable in the park, but they're also a favorite of ball hawks looking to snag a souvenir during pre-game batting practice. Just be sure to wear sunscreen, because this part of the park gets very little shade.

Monument Garden

Ellie W. via Yelp

Learn about the history of the Atlanta Braves at Monument Garden, featuring artifacts, memorabilia, statues, and sculptures. Children will especially love the interactive displays and audio features. Find it on the Lower Level, Section 125, and don't miss the Hank Aaron tribute of hundreds of bats that spell out 755 (for his 755 home runs). 

Home Run: Head to this spot when you need a little cooling off. The giant fans and shade in this area are good at their jobs. 

—Shelley Massey

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Great news! NYC’s free outdoor swimming pools are among the many, many things that are reopening for the summer 2021 season. The outdoor pool season starts June 26 and runs to September 12. NYC is home to numerous free, public pools — including the pool from that In the Heights scene. Whether you want to just splash around or work on swimming skills with your kids, there’s a pool for you. Here are the best outdoor pools in NYC where you can beat the heat free of charge this summer.

Know Before You Go

Malcom Pinckney/NYC Parks

Before we tell you the top pools, here's what you need to know about swimming at NYC pools this summer. Outdoor pool hours are free and open to the public from 11 a.m. through 7 p.m., with a break for pool cleaning between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Early morning and late night adult lap swim hours are also available at some locations.

In the past, the city has offered free swimming lessons through the Learn to Swim program. It is still being determined if the program will take place in 2021. More info is available here.

Be Cool, Know the Rules: New York City Public Pool Rules

Wei J. via Yelp

Before you head to one of the pools to take a quick dip, be sure to read all of the rules carefully—and be prepared to take them seriously. Staff is on hand checking all pool guests to make sure they adhere to the rules, and they are not messing around. First, masks are required everywhere except in the pool, and don't be surprised if you have to show your padlock and bathing suit before they'll let you in.

Other rules include:

Only white tees are allowed in the pool (over the top of suits), no water toys or floatation devices are allowed, and you must take a shower in the locker room before entering the pool.

Don't plan on taking more than the essentials (towels, goggles, sunscreen) on the pool deck. Beach chairs, baby strollers bags, blankets, beach balls, phones and cameras are all prohibited on the pool deck.

Despite all the rules, we promise a dip in a public pool can be a fun, mini vacation when the mercury rises in NYC. (For a full list of every free NYC pool, head here.)

Cool Pools: New & Improved Spots to Splish & Splash

NYC Parks

In recent years, the city has rolled out the "Cool Pools." These pools haven't undergone improvements since the 1970s, and are located in under-served areas (one in each borough). The pools are spruced up with more green plantings, fun summer wall art, cabana-style structures for shade, and lounge chairs. The most recent batch of Cool Pools can be found here:

Claremont Pool in the Bronx
Commodore Barry Pool in Brooklyn
Dry Dock Pool in Manhattan
Wagner Pool in Manhattan
Liberty Pool in Queens
Tottenville Pool on Staten Island

Our Favorite Free NYC Pools

Red Hook: Sol Goldman Pool

This Olympic-sized pool is near a recreation center, ball fields, IKEA and cafes. Make a day trip of it and stuff yourself after your swim at a food truck (during the summer they usually park at the edge of the park), or try a hipster cafe on Van Brunt Street.

Insider Tip: This pool is usually a lot quieter than most public pools and includes a large splash area perfect for toddlers. Get there early and you can even score one of the few provided lounge chairs.

Go:
Sol Goldman Pool
155 Bay St. btwn Clinton and Henry
Red Hook, Brooklyn
Nearest transportation: Smith - 9 Streets Station (F, G)

Washington Heights: Highbridge Pool

Malcolm Pinckney/NYC Parks

Yes, you too can frolic in the massive pool seen in the film In the Heights. Highbridge Pool is part of the larger Highbridge Park, which gets its name from the historic bridge that connects Manhattan and the Bronx. There's an Olympic pool and a wading pool here, and the park itself, part of a $150 million effort to upgrade five neighborhoods parks in the city, includes athletic courts, a rec center, playgrounds a skate park and more. 

Go: Highbridge Pool
Amsterdam Ave & 173rd St. 
Washington Heights
212-927-2400
Nearest transportation: A  or 1 train to 168th Street

Greenpoint: McCarren Park Pool

NYC Parks

Another Olympic-size pool, Greenpoint’s McCarren Pool is located in the 35-acre McCarren Park. After being closed for a couple of decades in the 80s and 90s, the pool became a spot for concerts and events. In 2012 it re-opened as a public pool, with the bathhouse and dramatic entry arch preserved.

Go: McCarren Park Pool
Greenpoint
776 Lorimer St.
Nearest transportation: Bedford Avenue or Lorimer Station (L), Metropolitan Avenue Station (G)

Astoria: Astoria Park Pool

NYC Parks

Astoria Park has the largest pool in New York City, at 330-feet long. As well as the main, Olympic-sized pool and diving pool, you'll also find a wading pool here.

Insider Tip: They have a great area for kids where you'll also find sprinklers. This pool has lounge chairs for use if you can find one free.

Go:
Astoria Park Pool
19th St. and 23rd Dr.
Astoria, Queens
Nearest transportation: Astoria Blvd Station, Astoria-Ditmars Blvd Station (N, Q)

Upper East Side: John Jay Pool

Image courtesy of Thom H. via Yelp

For Uptown Manhattanites, this is the go-to pool, and not surprisingly it's packed with families. Besides having a 145-foot pool and a special diving area (a rare public pool find), the recreation area also boasts a playground wth a "rivers edge" theme: you'll find a Whitehall row boat to play in, an elevated sand table, a water play area, wavy decks and a climbing net.

Insider Tip: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the pool opens if you're braving a weekend here. Prep the kids before you go, that you might not actually get to go swimming. Lines can get ridiculously long here.

Go:
John Jay Pool
East of York Ave. on 77th St.
Upper East Side
Nearest transportation:  77th St. Station (6)

Staten Island: Lyons Pool

One of 11 Olympic-sized pools built in 1936, Lyons Pool is known for its distinctive chimney feature, which is a well-known Staten Island landmark. From the top of the recreation center you can see Downtown Brooklyn.

Insider Tip: This is one of the few pools with a diving pool. It also features a wading pool for kiddos to enjoy.

Go:
Lyons Pool
6 Victory Blvd
Staten Island
Nearest transportation: Tompkinsville Station (SIR)

Lower East Side: Hamilton Fish Park

NYC Parks

This beautiful pool is an oasis of calm and cleanliness on the Lower East Side. It has such a great reputation that the U.S. Olympic Team used it for practice sessions on their way to the 1952 Helsinki Games.

Insider Tip: The locker rooms don't have benches to sit on or to place your things, while you get ready, so be prepared to juggle. There also isn't much in the way of deck furniture, so bring a large towel or picnic blanket to sit on if you're planning on hanging around for a while.

Go:
Hamilton Fish Park 
Pitt St. and Houston St.
Lower East Side
Nearest transportation: Essex St Station (J, M, Z), Delancey St Station (F), 2 Av Station (F)

Bronx: Van Cortlandt Park Pool

NYC Parks

The largest non-Olympic sized public pool in NYC (it’s 164-feet long), Van Cortlandt Park Pool is edged by trees, a rarity in NYC!

Insider Tip: Expect a long line to get in, but don't be put off by the hordes of people — there's enough room inside for everyone. Want to beat the queue? Plan to get there an hour before it opens.

Go:
Van Cortlandt Park Pool
6000 Broadway and 242 St.
Bronx
Nearest transportation: Van Cortlandt Park - 242nd St. (1)

— Christine Knight & Julie Seguss

Unless otherwise noted, images courtesy of NYC Parks

Cover photo: David F. via Yelp

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From the sand toys to the snacks, a family day at the beach inevitably means lugging around a ton of gear. That sandy trek is about to get easier, however, thanks to this incredible all-in-one beach chair wagon.

The convertible chair from Mac Sports is cooler than any Transformer in your toy box. It’s a two-in-one beach chair and wagon combo that give you a hand carrying all your beach accessories across the sand and then gives you a comfy spot to rest after.

The wagon chair is equipped with wide tires so it can roll smoothly across the sand, unlike those narrow stroller wheels. It can carry up to 100 pounds so you can toss in everything but the kitchen sink (or maybe that too).

The chair features a head rest, in case you actually find a minute to lounge between building sandcastles and chasing waves. You can score this incredible find on Amazon for $107.40.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of Amazon

 

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Are you already in summer planning mode? Sam’s Club recently announced a line-up of fab floats—and the warehouse club is going big this year with a six-person 20-foot pink limo!

Forget about teeny tiny one-person floaties. Sam’s Member’s Mark Retro Pink Limo Island ($199.98) is over-sized awesomeness. This heavy-gauge PVC float has room for you, your family and maybe even a friend or two.

Not only is the Pink Limo a cool way to lounge on a hot summer day, it comes with plenty of amenities. The float has an inflated rear swim platform with four handles, six cup holders, and a built-in cooler.

As if an over-sized inflatable pink limo wasn’t enough, Sam’s Club also has other giant floats for the whole family. Check out the Member’s Mark Island Airplane ($169.98) or the Member’s Mark Island Zebra ($169.98)—both fit six people.

If you’re looking for something smaller, Sam’s Club has you covered in completely creative ways. The Member’s Mark 56″ Animal Tube Pool Float ($14.98) is available in unicorn, shark, crab or toucan themes! These single-rider floats are perfect for a day of poolside fun!

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Sam’s Club

 

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Get ready to plan your summer vaycay! Karisma Hotels and Resorts recently announced the soon-to-come debut of the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya—coming to Mexico in June 2021.

This new Nick resort will feature your kiddo’s fave character friends, including SpongeBob SquarePants, PAW Patrol, Dora, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and more.

The resort boasts 280 all oceanfront, swim-up suites for up to five guests, and one of the largest water attractions in Mexico. Each suite comes with playful Nick-inspired decor and furnishings. Add to the Nick-themed fun and upgrade to one of the four rooftop penthouse Signature Suites—such as the Pineapple Suite or the Turtle Lair Suite. Parents will love this extra-special feature: all suites come with two bathrooms so you don’t have to share with the kids!

When it comes to water-side fun, this resort has it all. The Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya features Aqua Nick, a six-acre water park. Aqua Nick attractions include more than 1,820 square feet of river rides and 2,000 square feet of slides.

As if the water-soaked entertainment isn’t enough, the resort also offers plenty of interactive experiences with 20 of Nick’s signature characters. The Nickelodeon Place entertainment area features Club Nick (a free play zone for kids with themed days, a craft lab, character meet and greets, and more) and the ’90s inspired SNICK Lounge.

Mario Mathieu, Senior Vice President of Business Development, Design and Construction of Karisma Hotels & Resorts said, in a press release, “After the huge success of the Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana, we could not be better poised to expand the brand experience with our resort with all oceanfront swim-up suites, along with themed experiences with an extended cast of 20 your favorite Nickelodeon characters.” Mathieu added, “his property features many firsts such as the new Turtle Lair Suite, even more dedicated entertainment spaces such as SNICK Lounge and Mainstage, and the one-of-a-kind Aqua Nick with its epic slides, river rides and the teen-friendly Soak Summit, which will be a destination in itself.”

Even though the resort won’t open until June 2021, you can book your getaway right now. Visit the Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts Riviera Maya here for exclusive opening rates.

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Karisma Hotels and Resorts

 

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Remember the days when mom or dad would let you sit on their lap and help them drive the car into the garage? Sure you were only driving 5mph, but it was still pretty awesome. If you’ve got a little speed demon in your family, give them a dose of some fast-paced and thrilling go-kart racing. Today’s indoor karts are designed for drivers as young as 5 or 6, and they can drive independently. The only requirement: drivers must be at least 48 inches tall for most karts (some require a height of 50 inches). This isn’t the type of place you’ll find located in a strip mall—these karts are powerful!

Fortunately, indoor kart racing venues are big on safety. All drivers are required to wear a head sock, a helmet and neck guard. All of this gear is provided at no extra charge, but you certainly can bring your own. Most places have an “arrive and drive” policy, but be warned that weekends are popular race times and you might have to wait a while. Prices are pretty standard across the board, so plan on spending about $20 for a multiple-lap race. Also: kids and adults do not race together. Speeds are pretty consistent, as well: most junior races (for kids) are held at a max of 20 miles per hour, while some adult karts go as fast at 45 miles an hour.

photo: SLR Lounge via Unsplash

Here are our picks for an adrenaline-pumping day at the races.

MB2 Raceway
This popular birthday party spot is a hit with kids of all ages. Races are limited to 10 drivers, so kids have plenty of driving space for each 9-lap race around the indoor track. The ¼ mile track has strategically placed bumpers so drivers learn to maneuver their karts while keeping their speed at a steady clip (the cars can be controlled remotely, so if kids are driving unsafely, the operators can slow their kart). No reservations are necessary, and MB2 is open seven days a week. Expect to wait as long as one hour on a weekend. Fortunately (or not!) there is an onsite arcade to keep kiddos busy while they wait.

13943 Balboa Blvd.
Sylmar 91342

1475 Lawrence Dr.
Thousand Oaks 91320

Online: mb2raceway.com

K1 Speed
This indoor kart mecca is located in the South Bay area, so beach babies can get their race on!  The state-of-the-art track is made from etched concrete — a change from the typical asphalt track. Junior racers (from 48 inches tall through 58 inches tall) drive 12-lap races in specially designed junior karts that have emergency shut-offs for extra safety. K1 also has a junior karting league for wee enthusiasts who really want to learn the nuts and bolts of racing. Like most karting venues, K1 gets super busy on the weekends, so plan accordingly. Don’t worry, though, your kids will find the experience is worth the wait. Open seven days a week, but they do close for special events, so be sure to call ahead

19038 S Vermont Ave.
Gardena
Online: k1speed.com

 

— Robin Heinz Bratslavsky

While Disney California Adventure Park is not accepting guests for attractions, starting in November you’ll be able to access Buena Vista Street for holiday shopping and dining. Shopping and eating while the park is closed? This could be a once in a lifetime experience!

Disney officials have announced that Buena Vista Street will open starting Nov. 19––and we couldn’t be more excited! Some of the shops scheduled to open include, Elias & Co., Julius Katz & Sons and Kingswell Camera Shop which offer apparel, home decor and photo-centric gifts.

photo: Courtesy of Disney

At times, Disney may utilize a mobile wait list system at retail locations to manage the number of Guests shopping when the location and/or queue are at capacity. Guests will be able to give their their name and mobile number to receive a text message when they are able to return.

Dining options slated to host guests are Trolley Treats, a variety of vending carts, Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe, Carthay Circle Lounge and Smokejumpers Grill. As of now, guests will need to place orders via mobile order on the Disneyland App.

All guests will be expected to practice social distancing rules while visiting both the Downtown Disney District and Buena Vista Street.

––Karly Wood

 

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Now this is a story all about how…it’s been 30 years since The Fresh Prince pulled up at his family’s Beverly Hills mansion! To commemorate the occasion, Will Smith recently announced that he will be opening up the doors to the house where it all happened.

Starting Sept. 29 at 11:00 a.m. PST, groups of up to two Los Angeles County residents will have the opportunity to book a one night stay in Will’s wing of the mansion. To honor the 30 years that have passed since the show started, the five bookings will only cost $30 a night and will occur on Oct. 2, 5, 8, 11 and 14, 2020.

With some major updates since the 90’s, the wing showcases big style with access to Will’s bedroom and bathroom, a poolside lounge area and dining room. Guests are in for a big treat with perks that include trying on some of the Prince’s Air Jordans, spinning throwbacks on turntables, dressing up in clothes from Will’s closet and lounging poolside.

Guests can also make a request to be a part of a special Airbnb Online Experience with DJ Jazzy Jeff, where he will teach guests how to spin and scratch and virtually spend time with him in his home studio.

Anyone interested must prove Los Angeles County residency and currently live in the same household to minimize risk during the Covid-19 pandemic. To request a booking, head to Airbnb starting Sept. 29.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Airbnb

 

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Many people are looking to get out of town to visit loved ones or simply they just want to escape for a few days. Amtrak customers can travel in the comfort of a private room at a discounted price this summer. Now, when one person purchases a Roomette, one companion can join them for free.

Amtrak

Roomette accommodations are offered on many routes across the country. Located in the sleeping car, a Roomette is the perfect option for customers seeking privacy and space on a short trip and added comfort and amenities when traveling overnight. All customers in private rooms receive complimentary lounge access at major stations, priority boarding and complimentary meals onboard. 

Roomette accommodations are available across the national network on the following trains: California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Crescent, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, Silver Service, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle.

Available on Amtrak.com or by using the Amtrak app, customers can book between Jul. 7-17, 2020 for travel from Jul. 13, 2020 through Sept. 30, 2020.

To receive this discount, use the Fare Finder from this page or enter code V306 when booking a trip on the Amtrak app. The offer is subject to availability and not available on the Auto Train. An advanced reservation of at least three days is required. Other restrictions may apply.

In an effort to simplify and safeguard the travel experience, several cleaning, contract-free and convenience measures have been implemented to every part of the customer journey. Learn more about all measures at Amtrak.com/coronavirus.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Aris on Unsplash

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If you are looking for a comfortable lounge chair that is easy to transport, then an air lounger might be for you. These lightweight inflatable loungers from Crane are portable and quick to inflate. Starting Jul. 22 you will be able to find these at ALDI for a limited time.

crane air lounger

Inflate these loungers with just the power of wind. Use in the garden, at the lake or at the campsite.

crane air lounger

Each air lounger retails for $16.99.

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