Throughout history, people of Asian descent have played important roles in the creation of American life and culture, lending their talents to significant developments in the arts, business, politics, science, and much more. Despite their myriad contributions, the stories of Asian Americans are often left untold. With more than 21 million Americans today who can trace their ancestry back to various parts of Asia, Asians will eventually be the largest immigrant group in the United States. Representation matters, and it’s time for famous Asian American figures to receive their laurels. Learn about some noteworthy activists, artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, and more of Asian descent that you may not have learned about in U.S. history class.
Ellison Onizuka, Japanese American Astronaut
Ellison Onizuka was the first Asian American and the first person of Japanese origin to go to space. Born in 1946 on the island of Hawaii, Onizuka graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder with a B.S. and an M.S. in aerospace engineering in the same year, and in 1970, he joined the U.S. Air Force. In 1974 he attended the Air Force Flight Test Pilot Schoo Edwards Air Force Base in California. In 1978 he was one of 35 people (out of 8,000) accepted into NASA's Space Shuttle Program.
In 1985, after years of hard work, Onizuka's dream came true, and he entered space aboard the space shuttle Discovery as a mission specialist. After this mission, Onizuka was selected for the Challenger Flight F1-L along with six other crew members. On January 28, 1986, tragically, the Challenger exploded 73 seconds after liftoff, killing all seven members on board. For his service to his country, he was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor and there is a crater on the moon named in his honor.
Taiwanese American filmmaker Ang Lee has the unique distinction of being the first non-white director to win an Oscar for directing as well as producing and directing Academy Award-winning films performed in Chinese and English. Having been nominated for a total of nine Academy Awards, Lee has won three: Best Foreign Language Film for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon (2000) as well as Best Director for Brokeback Mountain (2005) and Life of Pi (2012). Born in Chaozhou, Taiwan, in 1954, Lee came to the U.S. to study film, and he received an MFA from New York University’s Tisch School, where he was a classmate of filmmaker Spike Lee. Ang Lee is considered by many to be among the most accomplished and influential filmmakers of his generation.
Widely regarded as the first Chinese American actress of Taishanese descent to achieve superstardom in Hollywood, Wong was born in Los Angeles in 1905 and started acting at an early age. Her varied career spanned silent films, the first color films, television, and radio. Although many of her early roles played into ethnic stereotypes, Wong was a vocal advocate for greater representation of Asian Americans in film and television, and she gained both critical and popular acclaim for her international acting roles. Wong famously lost the leading role of the Chinese character O-Lan in the film adaptation of Pearl S. Buck’s The Good Earth to German actress Luise Rainer, who played the role in yellowface and went on to win the Academy Award for her portrayal.
Dr. Chien-Shiung Wu, Chinese American Nuclear Physicist
Known as the “Chinese Marie Curie” and the “Queen of Nuclear Research,” Dr. Wu was born in Jiangsu Province, China, in 1912, and moved to the U.S. in 1939 to pursue her Ph.D. at the University of California, Berkeley. As an experimental physicist, Dr. Wu made significant contributions to the study of nuclear physics, and as a member of the research staff at Columbia University, she played a critical role in the Manhattan Project, the research and development consortium led by the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom that created the first nuclear weapons. Dr. Wu was the recipient of the inaugural Wolf Prize in Physics and was the first woman to serve as president of the American Physical Society.
Joyce Chen, Chinese American Chef, Restaurateur, and Author
Before there was Food Network, chef, restauranteur, and author Joyce Chen was credited with popularizing authentic, northern-style Chinese cuisine in the U.S. Previously, much of the Chinese food that most Americans consumed was a hybrid “chop suey” that was neither authentic nor Chinese in origin. Born in Beijing, China, in 1917, Chen and her family fled the country as communists were taking over. She settled in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she opened the first Joyce Chen Restaurant in 1958, pioneering the all-you-can-eat Chinese buffet concept. In 2014, the U.S. Postal Service issued a stamp with Chen’s image in honor of her accomplishments and lasting influence on American cuisine.
Born in Punjab, India, in 1899, Saund emigrated to the U.S. via Ellis Island in his early 20s to further his education. He subsequently earned both master's and doctoral degrees in mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley. After becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1949, Saund ran for and won various positions in local government in Stockton, California. In 1955, he announced his campaign to run for the U.S. House of Representatives as a Democrat, a seat he would go on to win twice, which made him the first Sikh American, the first Asian American, and the first Indian American to be elected to the U.S. Congress.
Cecilia Chung, Hong Kong American Civil Rights Activist
Cecilia Chung is an internationally recognized civil rights leader and social justice advocate. Born in Hong Kong in 1965, Chung immigrated to San Francisco in her late teens. She is a transgender woman living openly with HIV and currently serves as Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives and Evaluation of Transgender Law Center. Chung was the first transgender woman and first Asian to be elected to lead the Board of Directors of the San Francisco Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Pride Celebration. Through her advocacy and philanthropic work, Chung has established herself as one of the country’s most important voices in anti-discrimination, transgender rights, and HIV/AIDS education and awareness.
Born in Taichung, Taiwan, in 1952, Dr. David Ho moved to Los Angeles at age 12 with his mother and younger brother to reunite with his father, who emigrated to the U.S. in 1957. After earning his bachelor of science in biology from the California Institute of Technology and his medical degree from Harvard University-Massachusetts Institute of Technology Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Dr. Ho performed his clinical training in internal medicine and infectious diseases. When he was a resident at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, he came into contact with some of the first reported cases of what was later identified as AIDS. Since then, Dr. Ho has been at the frontlines of AIDS research and more recently, coronavirus research.
George Takei, Japanese American Actor, and Civil Rights Activist
Best known for his iconic role as Lieutenant Hikaru Sulu in the original Star Trek series, George Takei is a groundbreaking actor and civil rights activist who blazed a trail for subsequent generations of Asian Americans in the performing arts. A self-proclaimed Anglophile, Takei was named after the United Kingdom’s King George VI, who was crowned earlier in the same year (1937) that the U.S.S. Enterprise helmsman was born in Los Angeles.
Like many people of Japanese descent at the time, and despite being American citizens, Takei and his family were forced to relocate to internment camps during World War II. Since coming out as gay in 2005, Takei has become a prominent LGBT rights advocate and political activist. He also has won awards and accolades for his work on human rights and Japan–U.S. relations, including his work with the Japanese American National Museum in Los Angeles.
Duke Kahanamoku, Native Hawaiian Olympic Gold Medalist, Surfer and Actor
Nicknamed “The Big Kahuna,” Duke Kahanamoku was a towering figure in the worlds of sports and entertainment. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1890, Kahanamoku was a five-time Olympic medalist in swimming, having competed in the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm, the 1920 Olympics in Antwerp, and the 1924 Olympics in Paris. Kahanamoku also was an alternate for the U.S. water polo team at the 1932 Olympics in Los Angeles. Following his trail-blazing athletic career, Kahanamoku worked as an actor, sheriff, and surfer, helping to popularize the Hawaiian sport of surfing to a new generation of surfers all over the world.
Grace Lee Boggs, Taishanese American Author, Philosopher, and Feminist
Born in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1915, to Chinese immigrant parents from Taishan, China, Grace Lee Boggs was a prominent Chinese American author, social activist, philosopher, and feminist. She was on the frontlines of social change in the 1940s and 1950s, and in the 1960s, she and her husband James Boggs—a Black writer and community organizer—were important figures in the fight for social justice for minority communities. Lee Boggs is best known for her book, The Next American Revolution: Sustainable Activism for the Twenty-First Century, and she is regarded as a key figure in the development of the Asian American movement and identity. She remained active in human rights advocacy until her death in 2015 at the age of 100.
Haing S. Ngor, Cambodian American Surgeon, Actor, and Author
Although Haing Somnang Ngor trained as a surgeon and obstetrician in his native country of Cambodia, he is best known for winning the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor in 1985 for his debut performance in the film, The Killing Fields, in which he portrayed Cambodian journalist and refugee Dith Pran. Ngor is the only actor of Asian descent to ever win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, and only one of two non-professional actors to win an acting Oscar. Born in Takeo Province, Cambodia, in 1940, Ngor survived the horrors of prison camps under the Khmer Rouge. Ngor harrowing accounts of torture and losing his wife during childbirth in Pol Pot’s prison camps, as well as his subsequent journey to the U.S. as a refugee, are told in his autobiography, Haing Ngor: A Cambodian Odyssey.
I.M. Pei, Chinese American Architect
Born in Guangzhou, China, in 1917, Ieoh Ming Pei moved to the U.S. in 1935 to enroll in the University of Pennsylvania’s architecture school, but he quickly transferred to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Pei would go on to design some of the nation’s most iconic buildings, including the John F. Kennedy Memorial Library, the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, among many others. Pei’s design of the glass and steel pyramid at the Musée du Louvre in Paris firmly established his reputation as a global visionary. Pei is among a select few architects whose work has defined city skylines around the world. In 1983, Pei won the Pritzker Prize, which is sometimes referred to as the Nobel Prize for architecture.
Jerry Yang, Taiwanese American Co-Founder of Yahoo! and Tech Investor
In 1994, Jerry Yang and his classmate David Filo dropped out of the doctoral program at Stanford University to create an internet directory originally named “Jerry and David’s Guide to the World Wide Web,” which was later renamed Yahoo! As the creator of one of the first internet portals, Yang played a critical role in defining the role of technology in our lives. Born in Taipei, Taiwan, in 1968, Yang emigrated to San Jose, California, at age 10 with his mother and brother. In the years since leaving Yahoo!, famous Asian American Yang has become a mentor to numerous technology startups and an investor to more than 50 startups.
Kalpana Chawla was the first woman of Indian descent to go to space, having served as a mission specialist and primary robotic arm operator on the space shuttle Columbia. Sadly, Chawla was one of the seven crew members who died when the spacecraft disintegrated during its re-entry into the Earth’s atmosphere in 2003 following the space shuttle Columbia’s 28th mission. Chawla was posthumously awarded the Congressional Space Medal of Honor, and several streets, universities, and institutions have been named in her honor. She is regarded as a national hero in India, where she was born in East Punjab, in 1962.
Patsy Matsu Takemoto Mink, Japanese American Politician and Attorney
Born on a sugar plantation camp in Paia, Hawaii, on the island of Maui, in 1927, Patsy Mink pursued a law degree at the University of Chicago after being rejected by all 12 medical schools to which she applied. As the then Territory of Hawaii debated statehood in 1956, Mink was elected to the Hawaiian Territorial Legislature representing the Fifth District in the Territorial House of Representatives, becoming the first woman with Japanese ancestry to serve in the territorial House. When Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959, Mink ran in the Democratic primary for the state's at-large U.S. congressional seat but was defeated by Territorial Senator Daniel Inouye.
In 1965, Mink won a post in the U.S. House of Representatives, becoming the first Hawaiian woman elected to U.S. Congress and the first woman of color elected to the House, where she served six consecutive terms. She served as Assistant Secretary of State under the Carter administration, then returned to the House, serving again from 1990 to 2002.
Philip Vera Cruz was an influential labor organizer, farmworker, and leader in the Asian American movement. As a co-founder of the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee, which later merged with the National Farm Workers Association to become the United Farm Workers, Vera Cruz led the charge to improve the terrible working conditions for migrant workers, especially Filipino and Mexican farmworkers.
Philip Vera Cruz, Filipino American Labor Leader, and Civil Rights Activist
Born in Saoang, Ilocos Sur, Philippines, in 1904, Vera Cruz moved to the United States at age 22. Working a variety of menial labor and farm jobs, Vera Cruz witnessed firsthand the deplorable treatment that farmworkers experienced. Vera Cruz partnered with Mexican labor organizer Cesar Chavez to demand better treatment, and together with the United Farm Workers union, these labor leaders were finally able to impact change in working conditions for thousands of workers. Learn more about this hero by reading Philip Vera Cruz: A Personal History of Filipino Immigrants and the Farmworkers Movement.
Sammy Lee, Korean American Olympic Diver, Coach, and Physician
Sammy Lee has the rare distinction of being the first Asian American man to win an Olympic gold medal for the U.S. and the first man to win back-to-back gold medals in Olympic platform diving. Born to Korean immigrant parents in Fresno, California, in 1920, Lee first dreamt of becoming an Olympic athlete when he saw banners for the 1932 Olympic games in Los Angeles. Lee competed in the 1948 Olympics in London and the 1952 Olympics in Helsinki.
Following Lee's impressive diving career, he helped coach several U.S. Olympic divers, including Bob Webster, Greg Louganis, and Pat McCormick. In addition to coaching, Lee also practiced as an ear, nose, and throat doctor for 35 years before retiring in 1990.
Tammy Duckworth, Thai American Army Veteran, and U.S. Senator
Born in 1968, in Bangkok, Thailand, to an American father and Thai mother, Tammy Duckworth is the first Thai American woman elected to the U.S. Congress, the first person born in Thailand to be elected to the U.S. Congress, the first woman with a disability elected to U.S. Congress, the first female double amputee in the Senate, and the first U.S. senator to give birth while in office.
A former U.S. Army lieutenant colonel and veteran of the Iraq War, Duckworth lost both of her legs and some mobility in her right arm after her helicopter was hit by a rocket-propelled grenade fired by Iraqi insurgents, causing severe combat wounds. Despite her injuries, she sought and obtained a medical waiver that allowed her to continue serving in the Illinois Army National Guard until she retired as a lieutenant colonel in 2014.
Yo-Yo Ma, Chinese American Classical Musician and Performer
Born in Paris, France, in 1955, to classically trained musicians of Chinese descent, Yo-Yo Ma was raised and educated in New York City, where he was a musical prodigy who began performing at the age of four. A graduate of The Juilliard School and Harvard University, Ma has performed as a soloist with orchestras around the world, recorded more than 90 albums, and received 18 Grammy Awards. Ma has achieved both critical and commercial success and has been honored with numerous recognitions, including the Glenn Gould Prize, National Medal of Arts, Presidential Medal of Freedom, Polar Music Prize, and was once named “Sexiest Classical Musician” by People magazine.
Wong Kim Ark is not a well-known Asian American in most American history books, but the 1898 landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court, known as United States v. Wong Kim Ark, 169 U.S. 649, established an important precedent for birthright citizenship. Wong was a restaurant cook born in San Francisco in 1873 to Chinese immigrant parents. The Naturalization Law of 1802 made Wong’s parents ineligible for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. When Wong visited China as a teen, upon his return to the U.S., he was readmitted without incident.
However, several years later, following another return from visiting China, Wong was denied entry because he was not considered a U.S. citizen, despite having been born here. Wong was confined for five months on steamships off the coast of San Francisco while his case was being tried. In a landmark 6-2 decision, the U.S. Supreme Court sided in favor of Wong’s claim of birthright citizenship, establishing an important precedent that continues to this day.
Yuji Ichioka, Japanese American Historian, and Civil Rights Activist
As a child, Yuji Ichioka and his family were relocated from their home in San Francisco to the Topaz internment camp in Millard County, Utah, for three years during World War II. This experience proved to be seminal for Ichioka, who is largely credited with coining the term “Asian American.” By helping to unify different Asian ethnic groups (e.g., Japanese Americans, Chinese Americans, Filipino Americans, etc.) under a single, self-defining term, Ichioka paved the way for greater prominence and understanding of people of Asian descent in the U.S. Born in San Francisco in 1936, Ichioka served three years in the military, then earned degrees from University of California campuses in Los Angeles and Berkeley.
He founded the Asian American Political Alliance in 1968 and helped to establish the Asian American studies program at UCLA. With his wife, Emma Gee, Ichioka established the Yuji Ichioka and Emma Gee Endowment for Social Justice and Immigration Studies at UCLA’s Asian American Studies Center.
Bhagat Singh Thind, a practicing Sikh from Punjab, India, blazed a trail for immigrants hoping to become American citizens. In 1918, After serving in World War I, Thind was granted citizenship, only to have it revoked four days later because he failed to meet the definition of either a "white person" or a "person of African descent. He tried again in 1919 and was granted citizenship in 1920. The Beauru of Naturalization appealed the ruling, and his case went before the Supreme Court in 1923. Siding with the bureau, Thind was once again stripped of his citizenship. Finally, in 1935, he was awarded citizenship for a third and final time under the Nye-Lea Act, which stated that all veterans of World War I were eligible for citizenship, regardless of race.
He was also the first United States soldier to wear a turban and eventually, while fighting for citizenship, obtained his Ph.D. in theology and English Literature from the University of California, Berkeley.
Bright lights, big city indeed! Treat your family to a night at one of New York City’s best holiday lights displays
The beloved New York City holiday season is here! That means lots of festive light shows, Christmas displays, and decorations galore! Walk or drive through spectacular light sculptures, with miles of displays and millions of lights to marvel at. Whether you plan to travel to the light shows outside of the city, or stick to one of NYC’s classics—like Macy’s famous department store windows, botanical gardens and zoos, or, of course, Dyker Heights in Brooklyn—there’s something for everyone on this list of holiday lights in NYC in 2023.
This popular animal-themed light and lantern display returns to the zoo starting Nov. 17. See 360 lanterns representing almost 90 animal and plant species from around the globe. This year, 70 new lanterns representing 30 new animal species will make their debut at the zoo. Also new this year is an enhanced light show for dazzling photo-ops, a holiday tree show that features synchronized musical lights, and a walk through an animal-themed Light Tunnel for more light shows.
But the Bronx Zoo Holiday Lights is more than a display: activities and entertainment include ice-carving demonstrations, stilt-walkers, puppet shows, a holiday train. and even treats like s’mores.
This walk-through light experience debuted in 2020, and it’s back and bigger this season. Glow is billed as “an outdoor color and light experience," and has expanded its space to encompass even more of the NY Botanical Garden's grounds. Expect washes of brilliant color, thousands of dazzling LEDs, illuminated plant stories, ice-carving demonstrations, and whimsical, picture-perfect installations that reflect the surrounding gardens and collections. Make it a double feature and check out the popular New York Botanic Garden Holiday Train Show while you’re there. (The garden offers a combo ticket.) Or stop by the Bronx Night Market Holiday Pop-Up for a snack and some hot cocoa.
This after-dark, illuminated spectacular lightscape celebrates the beauty of nature in winter. Follow a festive one-mile trail winding through the garden’s 52-acre landscape, animated by dazzling light, color, and sound. Over a million lights and more than 18 distinct works of light art will be on view, among them the Cathedral of Light tunnel and a Fire Garden on Lily Pool Terrace.
Dates: Nov. 17-Jan. 1
150 Eastern Pkwy. Prospect Heights, Brooklyn Online:bbg.org
The LuminoCity Festival, a spectacular display of larger-than-life figures lit from within is back, touching down in Eisenhower Park in East Meadow, NY for the 2023 holiday season. "Pure Magic" is the theme of the event, which features exhibitions of spectacular light art display designed to spark joy and wonder. This year, the festival has partnered with Nassau County to bring displays that are bigger and even more awe-inspiring, spanning over 17 acres. “Lumio,” the LuminoCity Festival mascot serves as your guide through the fantastical landscape, which features a wildlife safari, dinosaur adventure, an Alice in Wonderland-inspired exhibit, plenty of wintery and holiday-themed light sculptures, and much more.
Lumagica Light Show at Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard
Celebrate a good harvest with a gorgeous light show at the Harvest Moon Farm and Orchard. Lumagica is a spectacular display of over 750,000 lights forming whimsical creatures and themed light sculptures. This year's show is themed around an Enchanted Forest and will take you through six spaces, including magical trees and treats and sweets. Look for the 20-foot reindeer, a flying parrot, light tunnels, dancing light displays, and more.
A Very Furry Christmas Celebration at Sesame Place
Celebrate the Sesame way with A Very Furry Christmas Celebration at Sesame Place. At this festive, family-friendly celebration with everyone’s favorite Sesame Street friends, the park is transformed into a one-of-a-kind Christmas wonderland with millions of twinkling lights and festive decorations all around. The park’s 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show features a 30-foot, fully-illuminated tree that projects festive animated images to the sound of a festive holiday soundtrack—dancing encouraged! You can also take a photo with Santa, visit the Christmas Family Fun Zone, watch an interactive Christmas show featuring your favorite Sesame Street characters, and more.
You don’t even need to get out of your car for this one! Magic of Lights is a drive-through exhibit with over a mile of light displays featuring beloved characters and holiday scenes at Jones Beach State Park. Highlights include a huge sparkling Barbie, a Bigfoot Monster Truck, and life-sized light-up dinosaurs all decked out to celebrate Prehistoric Christmas.
Insider tip: Jones Beach not convenient? You can also catch the Magic of Lights in New Jersey at the PNC Bank Arts Center.
Dates: Nov. 17-Dec. 30
Jones Beach State Park 150 Bay Parkway Jones Beach, NY Online:magicoflights.com
PNC Bank Arts Center 116 Garden State Pkwy Holmdel, NJ Online:magicoflights.com
Smith Point Light Show
The Girl Scouts of Suffolk County have one spectacular light show for you, located at the Smith Point County Park campground! Drive through one and a half miles of lights and light sculptures, featuring over 100 holiday displays (including five new ones), designed by the Girl Scouts themselves. This year, refreshments will be available to purchase at the show. Proceeds benefit programs for girls and families across Suffolk County, so you can enjoy the show and give back to the community all in one. Plus, Girl Scouts get a discount on tickets, and two badges!
If you prefer to leave the car, a new walking section has been added this year. Stop by the Enchanted Forest Walk-thru at Southaven County Park to take a walk through a magical world of glowing trees and animals, hot cocoa, and a photo-op with Santa in a heated tent.
Peace, Love & Lights at Bethel Center for the Arts
Relive the magic of Woodstock with Peace, Love & Lights, a beautiful drive-through light show located on the grounds of the famous festival. Drive through over a mile of light displays, including a 120-foot "Twinkle Tunnel," the fun '70s-themed Groovy Way, an Enchanted Forest, Santa's Workshop, and more. For additional fees, you can have a buffet-style dinner with Santa (plus snag a selfie!), watch ice carving demonstrations, toast s'mores, visit the Woodstock museum, and build some gingerbread houses with adult refreshments for the over 21 members of the family.
It’s a New York Christmas tradition to head to the big department stores to not only shop, but to check out the festive displays, which draw crowds all season long.
The holiday windows at Macy's feature a little blue reindeer named Tiptoe, who needs a little help learning to fly. Follow the journey of discovery and triumph as this very special reindeer takes to the sky to help Santa Claus bring joy to millions of children. SantaLand also returns to Macy's Herald Square on November 24, so once you're done admiring the windows outside, step inside to be transported to a world of holiday cheer and perfect presents for your loved ones.
Dates: Nov. 16-Jan. 1
151 W 34th St. Herald Square, Manhattan Online:macys.com
Bloomingdale's
This year, the Bloomingdale’s 59th Street flagship holiday windows promise to be the Best Holiday Ever, as the year's theme is a pure celebration of the spirit of the holiday, gift giving, and memory making. The windows will be bringing plenty of magical holiday elements to life, including giant wrapping paper, scissors, and champagne glasses, a toy workshop, and an animated 3D camera.
Dates: Starting Nov. 16
1000 Third Ave. at 59th St. Upper East Side, Manhattan Online:bloomingdales.com
Hudson Yards brings back the “Shine Bright” display for the season. The holiday décor includes over two million twinkling lights, or 115 miles of string lights! The whole complex shimmers inside and out, with The Vessel, Edge, The Shops, and The Public Square and Gardens adorned in lights. In the midst of it all is a 32-foot hot air balloon suspended inside The Shops at Hudson Yards. Plus: Every Day at 5 p.m., visitors can enjoy a light show synchronized to holiday music.
Saks puts on a huge light show every 10 minutes. Using LED lights and 3D projectors, a two-minute show plays out across the building’s 10-story facade. The music accompanying the light show is a medley saluting different holiday traditions, including José Feliciano’s “Feliz Navidad,” the theme from holiday film favorite Love Actually, Donny Hathaway’s “This Christmas” and more.
The public lighting of the 82-foot tall, 14-ton Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree from Queensbury, NY takes place on November 30 this year. You can catch the lighting on NBC from home, or visit the tree during its stay in NYC from 6 a.m. to midnight (though it'll be lit up for 24 hours on Christmas Day and 6 a.m.-9 p.m. on New Year's Eve).
This southern Brooklyn neighborhood goes all out with what at this point, are world-famous Christmas displays. You can visit on your own and stroll the blocks from (roughly) 83rd to 86th Street, or sign up for a tour from A Slice of Brooklyn. The company is now in its 13th year of guiding people through the lights, with buses leaving from Union Square in Manhattan. Word to the wise: If at all possible, go on a weeknight to avoid huge crowds.
81st through 86th Streets & 11th through 13th Avenues (approximately) Dyker Heights, Brooklyn
Create your own light show with Luminaries, the annual interactive light show at Brookfield Place. Designed and created in collaboration with the LAB at Rockwell Group, the display features colorful lanterns suspended in the enclosed Winter Garden public courtyard. View a special light show at the top of every hour, set to the holiday songs “Winter Wonderland” by Michael Bublé, “Silver Bells” by Tony Bennett, “Carol of the Bells” by The Bird and The Bee, and “Let It Snow” by Pentatonix. Or, make your own light show by making a holiday "wish"—donate $1 or more to light up the canopy in a motion-controlled show, or use the "Maestro!" feature to conduct the lights in a pattern that's unique to you. Donations this year will be benefiting behavioral health services for youth and adults in NYC and on Long Island who are struggling with substance and alcohol abuse.
This awesome Queens house is at it again. Put together by retired firefighter Kevin Lynch and his family, the light display is amazing to behold in person. Lynch once claimed that his goal is to be seen from the moon—he might not be quite there yet, but it certainly comes close.
Just when you thought you’ve seen everything Chicago has to offer, let us introduce you to these hidden gems and surprising city spotlights
There’s something energizing about living in a city for so long and still being surprised to discover how much you have yet to explore. Yes, even if you’ve checked off every last item on our list of 100 things to do with kids in Chicago, new—and some not-so-new!—hidden gems are still sprinkled around, well off the beaten path.
What’s more: this list also serves as the perfect guide for out-of-towners looking to experience more than those typical tourist destinations they’ve likely hit up on previous visits (as does this roundup of “secret museums” in the neighboring suburbs). So, if the grandparents are Field Museum’ed out and can’t bear another selfie at the Bean, this short list of activities—many of which are free—should keep them busy and earn them some serious street cred. Of course, we’d be shocked if even the most in-the-know locals, yourself included, have uncovered every one of these attractions.
Did you know that Chicago’s downtown district has a “pedestrian way system” of underground tunnels that link more than 40 blocks together? Known as the Pedway, it connects to public and private buildings as well as CTA stations and commuter rail lines and covers roughly five miles. Although it’s used by thousands of commuters, many people don’t know about this safe, quick, and convenient way to travel through the heart of the city—especially in the frigid winter months or during bad weather. Take it for a spin on your next rainy-day adventure. If you spot a black-and-gold compass-like sign, that lets you know you can get anywhere in the Pedway system without stepping foot outside.
The main Chicago Riverwalk gets all the glory—and the tourists—but if you’d rather take your family to a more serene spot right along the river, pay a visit to the 2.5-acre park with a curving riverside walk, thriving plant life, and scenic skyline views. Plus, it’s got plenty of seating thanks to an amphitheater made of reclaimed limestone blocks that once formed the foundation of Chicago’s former Grand Central Station train terminal.
This “Y” shape inscribed inside of a circle is an actual symbol of the city and is designed to look like the meeting point of the branches of the Chicago River. Although this insignia was first introduced in 1892 as part of a Chicago Tribune contest and adopted as an official municipal device in 1917, many Chicagoans have forgotten it exists, and it now hides in plain sight on bridges, street lamps, and even within the marquee of the famous Chicago Theatre. But, once you know about the device, you’ll start to notice it everywhere—much like the ubiquitous Chicago flag with its four six-pointed stars. Consider reminding your kiddos about this symbol before long walks through the city: it’ll make for an awfully fun historically-minded scavenger hunt.
This traditional Hindu temple is an awe-inspiring sight to behold. The largest mandir of its kind in Illinois, it showcases the stunning beauty of traditional Indian architecture. In fact, it was constructed according to the strict guidelines outlined in ancient Hindu texts of temple design. Because the complex is a sacred and spiritual place of worship, visitors cannot enter with sleeveless tops or shorts, and shoes must be removed before entering any building. Also, photography is not allowed inside any building—but the breathtaking exterior views encompassing nearly 30 acres are well worth documenting.
Another awe-inspiring temple is located just north of Chicago’s city limits. The second Baha’i House of Worship ever constructed and the oldest one still standing, the principles of Baha’i faith teach that no one religion is better than another and aims to offer safe spaces to pray, reflect, and revitalize your sense of purpose. It’s the definition of “all are welcome,” and these grounds are no exception.
Beginning at river level and spiraling five stories up, this vertical, oft-overlooked attraction provides a unique opportunity to explore a landmark bridgehouse. Visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look at the massive gears of Chicago’s most famous movable bridge–and if they’re lucky, watch as the bridge is raised or lowered from inside. If that–or the exhibits on the river’s history–aren’t fascinating enough, the top of the bridgehouse offers magnificent 360-degree views of the city and the complex river bridge system.
Although it’s the largest permanent digital art projection in the world, Chicago locals often forget to take advantage of the free public art offering, right on the facade of the giant Merchandise Mart building. It may require delaying bedtimes a bit, but snag a front-row seat to the 30-minute installation along the Chicago Riverwalk between Wells and Franklin Streets. The colorful, contemporary collections rotate seasonally, with nightly viewings that run for approximately three months each.
You can’t beat the price of this tucked-away botanical conservatory: it’s free and offers free parking. Bonus for parents of young children? The paved walking paths make the gardens more accessible with strollers. Although it’s an unexpected treat any time of year, the climate-controlled space serves as a much-needed tropical getaway during many of Chicago’s ice-cold months. And, it’s worth checking to see if the conservatory has a Agave guiengola approaching its “death bloom.” Twice in the past few years, these long plants grow upwards of 38 feet—almost to the building’s glass ceiling—in a matter of weeks and the flower spike becomes smothered with hundreds of tiny green buds. Reservations are free (yes, it bears repeating!), but they are still required to visit. Some walk-up reservations are available, but do yourself a favor and book in advance.
Tens of thousands of migratory birds visit the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary each spring and fall. More specifically, within the sanctuary is a natural area known as “The Magic Hedge.” It is 150 yards of trees and shrubs that has attracted an extraordinary 300+ species at one time or another. In addition to some world-class bird watching opportunities, the area offers incredible views of the city skyline as well as refreshing breezes as it is right off the lake.
This unique outdoor art gallery features over 70+ different murals from 70+ different local and international artists. The public art is vibrant and diverse. It is a perfect reflection of the Uptown neighborhood in which it resides. Better yet, the free exhibition is open 24/7, rain or shine!
The gorgeous interior makes this a site not to be missed when visiting downtown Chicago. From the Grand Army of the Republic Hall and Rotunda to the Preston Bradley Hall and its Tiffany Dome, you’ll have a hard time keeping from constantly looking up. However, you will want to force your head down to admire visiting art installations and to engage within the interactive Learning Lab. The Chicago Cultural Center also hosts many music and dance performances throughout the year. Admission is free.
Pearl Harbor tips, beach recommendations, where to shop, and where to stay
Visiting the Hawaiian Islands with kids brings to mind sand castles and surf, but when traveling with—ahem—discerning teens and tweens, of all the destinations, Waikiki might be the top. The hustle and bustle of activity all within a short walk and easily accessible beaches are a formula for teenage dreams. If you’ve skipped Waikiki in the past in favor of less urban areas, we hear you, but just remember: with teenagers, tranquility comes in many forms. Read on for the top reasons to concentrate your efforts on this Honolulu hub.
Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Vincent Lim
1. Give Back
The Mālama Hawaiʻi program is an initiative that encourages visitors to give back to the community while vacationing in Hawaiʻi. It offers a wide range of interesting opportunities, all of which help visitors understand the history and culture of Hawaiʻi. Learn about native plants, clean up beaches, and help restore historical monuments. As an added bonus, many of the local businesses participate in this program, including many local hotels. Teens and tweens are the perfect age to take part and it will give them a deeper understanding of the unique landscape—geographic, social, and historic—of Hawai’i.
Amber Guetebier
2. The Location
There are hundreds of hotels in Waikiki, and all have pros, cons, and price differences. Our #1 advice for visiting Waikīkī with teens? Stay as close to the beach as possible. This gives teenagers more freedom without the stress of wondering how to track them down or meet up.
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa immediately across from the main beach at Waikiki and, while it wasn’t the quietest location, it was so worth it. Once we were oriented to our surroundings it became less of a big deal to let the girls—ages 15 and 17—take beach chairs down on their own or walk to get coffee or snacks, because they were quite literally going across the street. Our hotel also had a fantastic cultural center where knowledgeable locals give dance, ukulele, and art lessons. We wove traditional necklaces while learning about the history of strong women rulers in Hawai’ian culture, something the girls still talk about! Out front nearly every night were vendors selling fresh fruit and local delicacies.
Hot tip: Many of the hotels offer either beach chairs on the sand or allow guests to borrow them from the hotel. This can save money over renting beach chairs and umbrellas. Additionally, we found that it can be less expensive to buy a snorkel mask at a local store vs. renting one. Ditto for boogie boards and sand toys. Before you buy anything, keep an eye out. Our hotel had a nice habit of departing guests leaving things with a “free” sign near the elevators on our floor. We managed to score an entire boogie board, which we offered to another family for free before we left as well.
Amber Guetebier
3. Walkability Score: 100
There’s no shortage of things to do right in Waikiki, and the following spots are all within a 10 to 15-minute walk from Waikiki Beach. If Waikiki Beach is too crowded, head down toward Kūhiō Beach, which can be less crowded with calmer water. Just past the break wall, the Queen’s Beach is an idyllic cove for kids to snorkel and bob around. Queen’s Beach is right next to Kapiolani Park Beach and Kapiolani Park, where you’ll find the Honolulu Zoo. The zoo is on the smaller side as zoos go, so a two-hour visit is plenty of time to enjoy the animals and gorgeous botanical gardens throughout. There’s plenty of shade in the zoo, too. Along the water in Kapiolani Park, you’ll also find the Waikiki Aquarium, another great spot to get out of the sun and discover more than 3000+ Hawaiian and tropical animals.
Kapiolani Park is also home to the Tom Moffatt Waikīkī Shell, an outdoor amphitheater with frequent live performances, ranging from musicals to comedians to traditional dance. The Shell is operated by the Blaisdell Center. Click here for the calendar.
Hot Tip: The Duke Kahanamoku Statue, makes a great meeting spot if your party separates. It’s easy to find and super cool to pay homage to the father of modern surfing!
Amber Guetebier
4. Take a Breathtaking Hike Nearby
When you want a nature hit but aren’t ready to head out of town too far, plan a visit to Diamond Head. Hiking Diamond Head is a ritual for many visitors to this area, but as of May 2022, non-residents who wish to hike the trail and visit the monument must register in advance. It’s well worth the trek there, and to the top, to see some of the most stunning views on the islands. You can take the green line of the trolley out there if you don’t have a car.
Yes, Waikiki has it all, and one of those “alls” is that it is a short trolley ride from downtown Honolulu where you will find Iolani Palace. There may be no better place to learn about the Hawaiian Kingdom and to help understand the complex history of colonialism in Hawai’i, than Iolani Palace. This former home of Hawai’i’s reigning monarchs, as their website says, “The Palace complex contains beautiful memories of grand balls and hula performances, as well as painful ones of Liliuokalani’s overthrow and imprisonment.” Walk these very halls and see displays of decorative arts, furniture, military accessories, and more as you discover the significant history of the Hawaiian monarchy. This includes what is known as the Imprisonment Room. In 1895, after an attempt to restore Queen Liliuokalani’s power, she was arrested, forced to abdicate the throne, held for trial, convicted, and imprisoned in this room for eight months.
Hot Tip: Kapu means “forbidden,” or “off-limits,” but also means “sacred” or “consecrated.” If you see a sign marking a place as Kapu, respect this and do not enter.
Amber Guetebier
6. Celebrate Hawaiian Culture
The Bishop Museum is an unrivaled celebration of the history, culture, and environment of Hawai’i and the Pacific and is the state of Hawai’i’s largest museum. Founded in 1889, the Polynesian and Hawaiian Halls built by Charles Reed Bishop in honor of his wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop (a descendent of the royal Kamehameha family) is done in the typical architectural style of the time. At first glance, the building looks like a classic brownstone, but a closer peek will show that the entire building is constructed of lava stone, an extraordinarily unique piece of world architecture. The interior is an exquisite Victorian-era style collection, with corridors and cabinets containing royal family heirlooms, scientific specimens, taxidermy, and millions of objects, documents, and photographs about Hawai‘i and other Pacific island cultures. There is also a planetarium on site as well as a gift shop featuring local artists. Though the Bishop Museum is a little too far from Waikiki to walk, there are several easy-access buses a day that take you right from the heart of Waikiki to its doors or use the purple line of the trolley.
Amber Guetebier
7. Get a Profound History Lesson
Yes, you could spend all day every day at the beach but if you want to venture out of Waikiki for the day, do not miss taking your kids to Pearl Harbor. It is a powerful place, both a somber graveyard of lost soldiers and an important lesson in World War II history. A visit to the included museum displays is critical for understanding the dangerous racism toward Hawaiians of Japanese descent during this time. Before you make the drive out to Pearl Harbor, you should know that visiting the USS Arizona requires advance reservations. The memorial sees thousands of visitors a day, so here is how to get tickets:
Reservations are released daily at 3 p.m. HST in two windows: 24 hours and 8 weeks in advance. For example, on January 1 tickets were released for Jan. 2 and Feb. 26.
Tickets are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Visit this page on Recreation.gov. You will need to create an account or log in if you already have one.
Everyone needs a ticket, even babies, but tickets are free. The reservation system keeps a $1 service fee.
Amber Guetebier
We had luck finding our tickets with the 24-hour window but we did not know about the advance reservation system until we were standing at the visitor’s center. We kept ourselves busy with some of the other on-site museums and memorials but ended up having to go back out to Pearl Harbor the next day to see the USS Arizona. Easily avoided if you follow the steps above either once you know your date or once you arrive in Honolulu.
If you want to attend a Hawaiian luau there are a number of options in the Waikiki area but be sure to book in advance. Remember, there really is no “slow season” in Waikiki. Our favorite in the heart of Waikiki, though it’s a splurge, is the Aha’Aina Luau at the Royal Hawaiian. It runs every Monday and Thursday night at 5 p.m. and food is included. The Hilton offers a Starlight Luau every Sunday to Thursday at 5 p.m.
9. Shop Til You Drop
With two teenagers, the proximity of more than one open-air mall was a big bonus. We spent more than one evening wandering around the nearby International Marketplace. You’ll find similar box stores to other malls as well as specialty shops, treats, and more, often along with live music or dancing. We also cruised around the Royal Hawaiian Center, an upscale mall worth a visit because there are frequently live performances of traditional Hawaiian music and dance.
10. Eat Your Fill
The Waikiki area has every kind of food imaginable. From traditional local fish dishes to chain restaurants, so no matter what your teen likes to eat there will be something to suit their palette and yours. Standouts for us included: Lulu’s Waikiki near the Honolulu Zoo, Tiki’s Grill where parents can drink their week’s worth of cocktails in one, souvenir volcano, and Duke’s. Don’t miss a chance to enjoy The Beach Bar at the Moana Surfrider. Stop by the Royal Hawaiian Bakery in the lobby of the famous pink palace and be sure to walk around and check out the impressive array of memorabilia in the lobby.
In search of the ultimate New York summer getaway? You’ll find it with this ultimate list of things to do in the Hamptons with kids
Headed out to the Hamptons with kids and wondering what to do with them for the weekend—or even the entire summer? No matter which shore or fork you find yourself on, we can help you find family-friendly things to do—with ideas for rainy day activities, welcoming places to eat, and sensory museums to visit. From mini golf to petting zoos, to boating and beaches, there’s something for everyone. And from Sag Harbor and Montauk to Southampton and East Hampton, we’ve got tons of ways to keep the kids busy! Read on for our favorite family-friendly activities in the Hamptons with kids. For more summer activity inspiration, check out our kid-friendly winery and breweries, beaches you can get to by train, and NYC’s best playgrounds with water for cooling down.
Learn, Play, and Create: Young minds can run wild at the Children’s Museum of the East End in Bridgehampton. The CMEE has a Long Island-themed indoor play space and an outdoor playground. Plus: there is a miniature golf course on the grounds that visitors get to play for free! CMEE also hosts a variety of toddler and kid classes including Baby & Me, Cooking, Chess, Sensory Play and Gardening. Insider Tip: You will need a reservation to visit, and make note: The museum is closed on Thursdays.
Eat Outside: A summer must! We love Cowfish in Hampton Bays for an upscale meal waterside, Navy Beach in Montauk for stunning sunsets (reservations are required!), and Lobster Roll AKA Lunch, with locations in Amagansett and Southampton, for the lobster roll and more casual fare. For authentic Mexican street food, check out La Fondita, also in Amagansett.
Perfect Your Swing: Play a round of mini-golf at the Hamptons-themed course at Hamptons Mini Golf, Puff ‘n’ Putt in Montauk (it's cash only!), or Whale’s Tale on Shelter Island, which is open seasonally.
Have a Barnyard Adventure: Head to Harbes Family Farm, a popular 100-acre farm in Mattituck for fun for both kids and adults. In addition to the original farmstand, the farm includes the Barnyard Adventure, an 8-acre family-friendly attraction that includes farm animals, Jumbo Jumpers bounce pillows, a trike track, sports zone, Gnome-themed hedge maze, and "bunnyville" (so cute!). The farm also includes Harbes Wine Barn, a wine-tasting room renovated from a 100-year-old potato barn.
Enjoy Live Music: Take the kiddos to a concert series hosted by Southampton Cultural Center in Agawam Park and Cooper’s Beach in Southampton. Most concerts are held on Wednesdays and start at 6:30 p.m. Concerts that are held on Saturdays start at 5 p.m. Young ones can frolic and play as you relax on blankets.
Cool Down with a Treat: Hamptons favorite BuddhaBerry in Sag Harbor offers serve-your-own fro-yo in flavors like caramel sea salt pretzel or sweet peach from Georgia, plus endless toppings to choose from, such as dinosaur gummies. They'll even offer you a large cookie to top off your cool creation. Or, indulge the kids at the long-time favorite Sip ‘n Soda in Southampton with old-fashioned root beer floats, banana splits, and milkshakes.
Bond with Nature: It's the mission of Amber Waves Farm to produce organic, healthy food for the local community and to reintroduce wheat to the local East End of Long Island. Kids ages two to nine can learn all about living the farm life by visiting the Amagansett spot, which hosts summer workshops,events, and customized programming, such as Farm Chores for Kids, Cooking Classes, and Foraging at the Farm. The farmer's market is great here, too!
Try Some Pizza: Brooklyn favorite Roberta's has a spot in Montauk, and chef PJ Palaca has taken over Astro's Pizza in Amagansett.
Frolic in a Lavender Farm: Have a moment of Zen walking among the lavender bloom at Lavender By the Bay. This massive farm grows English and French lavender and sells timed tickets for 90-minute slots. Take a deep breath at the East Marion or Calverton Farm and then stop by the shop for some calming goods to take home!
Quack Like a Duck: Grab the cracked corn (it’s better for the ducks than bread) and head to the duck pond on David’s Lane in East Hampton. Located on the edge of a nature preserve, there are plenty of trails to explore here after you give the ducks a snack.
Explore Long Island’s Nature: Learn about the local eco-system and touch amphibians and reptiles native to Long Island at the South Fork Natural History Museum and Nature Center, where you can also go on outings like bird-watching or exploring a pond for critters. At the Quogue Wildlife Refuge, you can walk seven miles of trails through diverse habitats including forests and ponds, as well as the ecologically rare Dwarf Pines in the Pine Barrens. The refuge also offers Summer Ecology programs for kids as young as four and as old as juniors in high school.
Act Out: The Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center offers weekly musical theatre camp in which kids ages six to 16 become part of the show or work behind the scenes. The Center also stages live shows outdoors in the evenings.
Get Some Ice Cream: There's no shortage of ice cream in the Hamptons. We think the best can be found at Magic Fountain in Mattituck, Snowflake Ice Cream in Riverhead, John's Drive-in in Montauk, Candy Kitchen in Bridgehampton, and Gemelli Gelato in Hampton Bays, which has a huge outdoor seating area.
Discover History: Visit Quogue’s oldest schoolhouse built in 1822 at the Old Schoolhouse Museum. Then tour the area’s oldest operating water mill and colonial crafts at the Water Mill Museum (closed Mon.-Wed.). Don’t miss Long Island’s whaling heritage displays of whale jaw bones and harpoons at The Sag Harbor Whaling & Historical Museum (open Thurs.-Sun.; reservations recommended).
Go On Safari: The largest combined children’s zoo and wildlife park on Long Island, the Long Island Game Farm in Manorville, will entertain kiddos of any age with a giraffe, red kangaroos, lemurs, zebra, and alligators. Plus, Old McDonald’s Farm Petting Zoo lets kids reach out and touch furry friends.
Saddle Up: If you love horseback riding, you’ve come to the right place. Stony Hill Stables in Amagansett welcomes all ages for pony camp and competitions. Head to The Green School in Sagaponack for private riding lessons for kids ages three and up.
Hit the Beach: Choose from the calm waters on the bay side or the roaring waves and white sands of the ocean side. Try the low-key, family-friendly Indian Wells Beach in Amagansett with food trucks and restrooms, or the sprawling Cooper's Beach in Southampton, which has a concession stand, chair and umbrella rentals, bathrooms, and fresh water showers. Little ones will appreciate the gentle waters at Foster Memorial Long Beach in Sag Harbor—it’s a little rocky, but the waters are warmer and you won’t find waves here. Insider Tip: Be prepared to leave early to get a parking spot, and pay for it. Many beaches in the Hamptons are not public.
Get Some Doughnuts: Head to North Fork Doughnut Co. for "craft doughnuts" made from scratch daily using locally-sourced ingredients, including fresh farm berries. Don't forget to check out the destination bakeshop's monthly "flavor forecast" before you go!
Visit The Big Duck: A local landmark and piece of Americana since the 1930s, The Big Duck is located in Flanders, New York, along Route 24 just outside of Riverhead. Its belly holds a small museum and duck souvenirs, but its really about the exterior: Drive by at night and the eyes—lights from a Model T—glow.
See Where Pollock and Krasner Worked: You might say that visiting the home and workshop of one of America's foremost abstract expressionists is a bit high-minded for kids, but we're guessing that at some point your child has returned from school or camp with artwork inspired by Pollock's splatter method. At the Pollock-Krasner House and Study Center, you can see the preserved house where they lived, tour the grounds, and inhabit the actual workshop space where Pollock created his large-scale works.
Go All Aboard: Make a stop at the Railroad Museum of Long Island, which has locations in both Riverhead and Greenport. Train-loving tots will freak over the model train exhibits, historic rail cars, and locomotives.
See Sea Creatures Up Close: The Long Island Aquarium is home to one of the largest all-living, closed-system coral reef displays in the Western hemisphere! You'll find all kinds of animals here, including seals, sea lions, sea otters, butterflies, insects, seahorses, and jellyfish. Insider Tip: Visit the aquarium within seven days of your birthday and get in free (ID and birth certificate required).
Build a Castle: Take part in weekly sandcastle building contests at Hither Hills State Park in Montauk every Thursday morning. All ages build their best castle using sand, water, and natural materials found on the beach. The State Park hosts additional family-friendly events like magic shows and musical performances.
See Montauk via MonTiki: Tour The End of the island like you never have before via a catamaran crafted in the style of a Polynesian boat with Sailing Montauk. Do a simple day sail, sunset sail, or a sail-and-swim session.
Slip and Slide: If you prefer your water play with chlorine—not salt—head to the area's popular waterpark Splish Splash for a totally tubular time. Insider Tip: The park's two new extreme slides, Bombs Away and Riptide Race, are musts for thrill-seekers!
Watch Horses & High-Profile Peeps: Head to the annual Hampton Classic Horse Show in Bridgehampton to see some stallions jumping—not to mention the rich and famous who make the scene (and hobnob in the VIP tent). Held on Aug. 27-Sept. 3, it's seven days of sport, shopping, and food.
See a Puppet Show: Put down the iPad and be entertained by Goat on a Boat Puppet Theatre, either at a puppet camp or by its new Puppet Truck that will be rolling around all summer.
Take in a Ballgame: Grab the crackerjacks and cheer for your local baseball team—from the Montauk Mustangs to the Westhampton Aviators or Sag Harbor Whalers! The Hamptons Collegiate Baseball League features seven teams with college players from around the country. Most games take place nearly every evening at 5 p.m. in July. Past summers have included softball camp and youth clinics.
Enjoy beach days, over-the-top culinary experiences, and so much time to relax
Family vacations are always worth it. Especially when they involve the sandy beaches and warm tropical breezes at some of our favorite family-friendly destinations. But if we’re being honest, they’re not always easy. After all, stuffing rowdy toddlers and tweens—who want nothing more than to sleep late on vacation (can you blame them?)—into a cramped hotel room, is less than ideal. Get the space (and extras) you need, without reserving adjoining rooms, when you book your next island getaway at one of two spectacular Maui resorts for families where suites and villas are standard.
What’s the catch? While membership certainly has its privileges, families can book these spacious spots, and enjoy all the benefits that come with them, even without a membership.
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Allison Sutcliffe
Suites
The suites at Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club comfortably sleep four (or more), with room to spare. A kitchen, a bath and a half, a dining area, and a spacious living room mean you can spread out and truly feel like you’re on vacation in Maui. The décor in each room reflects relaxed island vibes, and the lanai (accessed either from the living space or the bedroom) is where families can enjoy those cool ocean breezes and the sound of crashing waves even when they’re not at the beach.
Allison Sutcliffe
Pools & Beaches
Three different pools dot the property, but the one families will want to know is at the center of it all. Discovery Cove is where kids of all ages can enjoy a water-themed pirate ship, slides (both big and small), and live shows and music. It’s that winning family combo that’s hard to beat. Head down after breakfast to reserve your spot, and plan to stay for the whole day—trust us, the kids will not want to leave.
Discovery Cove is flanked by two “quieter” pools: the Lahaina and Napili pools. Both have waterfalls, hot tubs, and space to swim with or without kids. If morning yoga is on your list, you’ll find the class along the grassy area at the Napili pool. Our tip? Sneak out early while the kids (and your partner) are still sleeping to get your stretch on. Both of these pools have palapa-shaded chairs and quiet cozy spots to reach.
If you’re traveling with a group of friends or want a guaranteed shady spot, there’s no easier way to make it happen than to book a cabana. Some have ocean views, some are set back from the pool, and these coveted, covered spots accommodate anywhere from two to twenty people.
Allison Sutcliffe
Take a break from the pool and head to the beach—it’s more than just a place to see stunning sunrises and sunsets, after all. During the day, families can score a shady spot under a tree and spend hours digging holes and building sandcastles before wading out into the water. Bigger kids will love body boarding and wave jumping; and if you’re feeling adventurous, book a surf lesson for yourself or your family. It starts on the lawn and ends in the calm waves of this Maui resort for families’ sandy shores.
Allison Sutcliffe
Wellness
If you want to get a workout in during your stay, find all the equipment that you need at the Fitness Center. If a class is more your speed, stop by the Thrive Fitness Studio to sign up for any number of instructor-led classes (hint: it’s where you can sign up for a morning yoga session).
You don’t have to look too far to find those self-care perks that make a family vacation that much better because Spa by the Sea is on the property. Book a Lomi Lomi massage, a mini facial, or a scrub to rejuvenate during your trip. Our suggestion? If you book a massage, make sure it’s oceanside. You’ll have complete privacy, but the warm breezes and crashing waves make it that much more relaxing.
Allison Sutcliffe
On-site Restaurants
Feeding the fam is easy at Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club. Not only will you find a number of on-site restaurants, but you can also prepare food in your room or at one of the many outdoor grills stationed around the property.
When it comes to iconic Maui restaurants, Longhi’s is an original. What Front Street lost in 2019, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club gained. Families will now find this iconic Maui spot in their new home on the property. Make a reservation for dinner or brunch at least once during your stay, and do try the Fish Longhi Style—it’s what they’re known for. If you want to grab something poolside, there are lots of options to choose from, and all are situated at Discovery Cove so you don’t have to go too far to get fed. The build-your-own poke or Buddha bowls from the Lokelani Pool Bar hit the spot anytime, and a slice or two from Pizza Cucina is an easy crowd-pleaser, too. One of our other favorite places to grab a bite is at the Kealani’s Juice Co. food truck, a colorful VW parked on the lawn by the Napili Tower. There’s no better way to start your morning than with one of their fresh juices, and if you’re feeling indulgent, try a slice of the homemade sweet bread to go with it.
This resort is best for: If you’ve got younger kids this is the spot for you. It’s hard to beat the fantastic kiddie pool, live shows in the afternoon, and easy extras (like giant board games) that entertain toddlers during that 30-minute window between the end of pool time and the start of dinner.
The spacious villas at Westin Kā’anapali Ocean Resort Villas make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in through the door. Families are greeted by a full-size kitchen, stocked with everything you need to cook during your stay, a comfortable living space that includes a sleeper couch, and a spacious bedroom and bathroom that may have you reconsidering your own design choices at home. Modern elements mix with comfort in the 900-square-foot space (for a one-bedroom) or 1,360-square-foot space (for a two-bedroom). Villas overlook everything from the pool to the ocean, and they come with those thoughtful touches you’ll find at every Westin property.
Allison Sutcliffe
Pools & Beaches
You’ll find plenty of pools at this luxe Maui resort for families. But no matter where you plan to spend the day, get there early to reserve your spot close to the action. Find a shallow play area for kids, a waterslide, and shaded chairs surrounding the main pool off the south tower. It’s definitely a hot spot for families. But if you really want to impress the kids, head to the pool that is just for them. Centered around an oversized pirate ship, it’s the ultimate spot for families. The covered playground means the kids can play out of the sun whenever they need to cool down. And the three-hole mini golf course is right there too, because sometimes you need to change up your pool routine a bit. When hunger strikes, the little food truck that sells hot dogs and other kid favorites will save you.
Allison Sutcliffe
While pools may be the focus here, beyond the hedges lie the crystal clear waters of North Ka’anapali Beach. And along with it comes some of the easiest snorkeling around. Rent gear from the resort (at the same spot you grab your towels) and head out to find sea turtles in the coral reefs that run along the property’s shoreline. They’re not too hard to spot, although it does take a bit of luck and a clear day. But even if you don’t see a honu while snorkeling, count on spotting more colorful fish than your kids will know what to do with. Our tip? Remember to pack reef-friendly sunscreen (or buy some when you get there). Reef recovery is one of the island’s priorities.
Allison Sutcliffe
Cultural Classes and Activities
One of our favorite aspects of this Maui resort for families is the classes and activities offered through the Cultural Center. If you want to learn more about Hawaiian culture, there’s no better spot to do it. The resort’s Cultural Director has brought his years of experience as an educator to create engaging family programs. Sign up to take a Hawaiian language class, learn to play ukulele, string a fresh-flower lei, or even learn a few hula moves (and their meanings). Trust us, it’ll be the highlight of your trip, creating memories to last a lifetime. And let’s be honest, so much better than bringing home a T-shirt as a souvenir. It’s just one of the many ways traditional Hawaiian culture is highlighted here. We’re also big fans of the nightly conch shell blowing and torch lighting. It’s another perk that’ll light up your kids’ imaginations.
Allison Sutcliffe
On-site Restaurants
While you can certainly cook up a feast in your villa kitchen, why bother when you’ve got great eateries like Auntie’s Kitchen and the Pailolo food truck just a short walk away? Both are on-property and offer all kinds of inventive dishes to get you through the day. Most families sit down at Auntie’s for breakfast where you can simply grab a cup of coffee or a hearty açaí bowl. Afternoons and evenings at Pailolo are easy too. With casual fare all cooked in a small food truck, it’s the shady spot that welcomes hungry guests after a tough day of pool play. And did we mention, they have sports playing here? If there’s a big game you don’t want to miss, chances are you’ll find it on the big screens here.
This resort is best for: Families with older kids will find what they need here. The on-site culture classes, waterslide, and sea turtle sightings right off the beach are a big sell for tweens and teens who are ready for a heavier vacation lift than their younger sibs.
1. Suites and villas come with full, apartment-size kitchens, so you’re not eating out all the time. Stock your fridge with kid-favorite breakfast and lunch items to save money. Remember, those poolside room charges add up quickly.
2. One of the things we love about these two resorts is that each Kids Club is focused on family activities. While you can’t drop your kids off, you can sign up for activities that promote together time, like beach totes, soap making, and candy lei-making. Hawaiian language classes, ukulele lessons, and other activities where Hawaiian culture is front and center are offered at the Westin.
3. Visit the concierge desk at either resort to help arrange childcare or babysitting services if just time alone with your partner is what your family vacation needs.
4. Both resorts are within walking distance of Whaler’s Village, an outdoor shopping mall where you can find souvenirs to bring home, restaurants, and locally made products. The Westin has a shuttle that runs between the property and the Village every 20 minutes.
5. Rent any gear you need, book tours and rides, and generally find all the watersports activities your family can handle along the beach walk behind both resorts. Just look for the little shops. They are not associated with the resorts, but they’re conveniently located so you don’t have to look far to find adventures off-site.
What to Do on Maui with Kids
Families looking for authentic experiences that highlight Hawaiian culture and promote sustainable tourism should definitely make time for these activities and experiences.
Allison Sutcliffe
Feast at Lele
Locals will tell you the Feast at Lele in Lāhainā is the best in town. We’re not going to argue with that. Hosted on the beach where the royal family of Maui used to entertain, it’s a multi-sensory tour across four Polynesian islands where food and dance are the medium. Although the feast is long (it’s about three hours from start to finish), the quick pacing keeps kids engaged. And if all else fails, they can build sandcastles at the beach beneath your feet in between sets.
After being greeted with a lei and escorted to your seat, breathe and enjoy the view. With Lanai as the backdrop, sailboats, kayakers, and Maui’s gorgeous sunsets are on display as cocktails are served. Once the sun sets, the show’s about to begin. Starting in Hawai’i with traditional kalua pua’a (pork cooked in an underground oven) and other tasty dishes, the dinner then moves onto Aotearoa, followed by Tahiti and Samoa, before finishing the experience with an island dessert medley.
Dancers in elaborate dress take the stage after each course is served, delighting all your senses. Your kids will be mesmerized by it all. The quick movements and intricate costumes bursting with color combine pageantry with tradition. And that’s all before the fire dancers come out—just in time to keep kids’ eyes open a few minutes longer. It’s always good to end an evening like this with pure excitement.
Good to Know: Children 2 and under are free, as long as they’re in your lap or a high chair. No strollers are allowed.
If you’ve got older kids, we highly recommend a two-hour Lahaina ATV trip with Maui Off-Road Adventures. During the wild ride, you and your little thrill-seekers will climb 2,000 feet up the mountain to find spectacular views that highlight a different side of Maui. Gone are the island’s relaxing beach vibes—they’ve been replaced by rutty roads, muddy goggles, and enough bumps and jumps to get your heart pumping.
But this ride is more than just a chance to get outside and test your mettle. Maui Off-Road Adventures is working to restore the land of an abandoned pineapple farm high atop the mountain. After racing to the summit, riders get out, plant a tree, and learn about the area’s fragile ecosystem and how they can make a difference, before hitting a few more epic views on the way back down. It’s that educational twist you weren’t expecting that makes this ride one that families definitely need to know.
Please note: Kids must be at least 7 years old to ride.
Good to Know: Bring a towel on this adventure. You’ll need it to wipe the dust off your face, clothes, and goggles at each stop.
If you’re looking for an atypical Maui experience, this one’s for you. The story behind this chocolate factory is almost as good as the chocolate they make—almost. Owner Dr. Gunars Valkirs thought he was retiring as a bioscientist. Little did he know, he was just changing careers. What started as a hobby back in 2013, is now a full-time job producing high-quality cacao on-island as sustainably as possible.
There are two ways to experience Ka’ui Estates Chocolates, and both are great for families. If your kids are old enough to handle a 90-minute cacao farm tour and chocolate tasting, add it to your island itinerary. You’ll learn about the chocolate-making process, from bean to bar, at the West Maui mountain farm. Or keep it short with an hour-long exclusive chocolate tasting where you’ll get to sample nine delicious chocolates and learn how to pair them. Trust us, it’s the coolest party trick in town.
A farm-to-table dinner at an open-air restaurant with live music playing in the background—what’s not to love about dinner at Merrmian’s? The Maui outpost of Chef Peter Merriman’s restaurant enterprise, built around locally sourced regional Hawaiian cuisine, is worth the Uber ride over. Start with their signature maika’i (a Mai Tai topped with a honey-liliko’i foam) plus the smoked taro hummus and end with the dessert trio and no matter what you sandwich in between, you won’t be disappointed. That leaves you plenty of space to fill in the dinner blanks. There’s really no wrong way to order here, but we know it’s hard. If you can’t decide, choose a combination of two entrees to make it easy on yourself.
As for the kids, they’ll find lots of recognizable favorites on the Keiki menu. It’s filled with things your kids will actually eat like fresh-caught fish, homemade pasta, and a virgin maika’i that’s just as tasty as the grown-up version.
Good to Know: If Merriman’s is a little too formal for your crew, try Monkeypod Kitchen in Whaler’s Village, Merriman’s casual counterpart. You’ll find the same focus on locally sourced ingredients and commitment to simple (yet outstanding) cuisine as the original with a laid-back vibe.
You can always count on miles of spectacular shoreline in Maui where you can snorkel, surf, or just play in the waves. But families are particularly fond of Kapalua Bay, Napili Bay, and Baby Beach, where—you guessed it—you’ll find plenty of young families with babies (or toddlers) taking advantage of the calm, protected waters.
Walking Maui’s beaches is one of our favorite family activities on the island. No matter where you go, kids will find something to capture their interest. But if you want to hit a specific trail, the Kapalua Coastal Trail tops our list. Looking for a hidden gem? Try the Olivine Pools Trail.
No matter how many times you’ve been to Maui, a trip up to the summit at Haleakalā National Park is always fascinating. Hiking into the volcano’s crater feels other-worldly, and it’s the only place in the world you can find silversword plants.
If the kids need a sun break, head to the Maui Ocean Center to experience Maui’s native ocean inhabitants up close. The Humpbacks of Hawai’i exhibit and sphere will leave your kids wanting more.
Editor’s note: This trip was paid for by Marriott Vacation Club, but all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.
Your kids are certain to release their inner Magellan along this historic trail
For a weekend getaway that offers lush forests, sparkling lakes, a majestic mountain (that stands over 11,000 feet!) and family fun, Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory is calling your name. We promise you’ll be in awe of the area’s impeccable beauty, while your little ones will be equally as entertained by the surrounding history.
Located just 90 minutes east of Portland, Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory is a great destination for a weekend road trip. Think nature, solace, cultural heritage and, we can’t forget, one-on-one family time.
To experience Mt. Hood Territory in all of its glory and see its history in one go, head to the Mt. Hood Territory Heritage Trail for a kid-friendly-meets-educational escapade. The historic trail features 26 different heritage sites, each brimming with interactive, hands-on experiences that’ll bring the 1800s to life–and keep your children busy. All you have to do is show up and let history do the entertaining.
Keep reading to discover seven of the trail’s stops that are perfect for your mini pioneer!
7 Stops You Don’t Want to Miss Along Mt. Hood Territory’s Heritage Trail
1. The Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum
Located in the heart of Government Camp (the only town five miles within Mt. Hood!), the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum is an excellent starting point to dive into the region’s storied past and present. With access to six unique galleries, your family can learn about the history of skiing and mountaineering.
2. End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive & Visitor Information Center
Take a step back in time. Located at the exact spot where Oregon Trail pioneers once camped in Oregon City as they awaited their land claims during the 1800s, this visitor center and museum highlights real-life records of these journeyers’ travels. You can also try your hand at candle dipping, butter and doll making, wagon packing, paper weaving and much more.
3. Philip Foster Farm
Young explorers will get a kick out of the countless interactive activities at Philip Foster Farm. From building a cabin with life-size Lincoln logs to grinding corn in an 1860s barn to cleaning laundry with a scrub board and wringer, you’ll get to experience daily life in the 1800s.
4. Oregon City Municipal Elevator
Also known as the vertical “Elevator Street,” this elevator was once powered by water and electricity for a 130-foot ride. Today, it stands as one of only four outdoor municipal elevators in the world, and remains the only “vertical street” in North America. Ride the elevator to the top to view downtown Oregon City from its observation deck and the neighboring McLoughlin Promenade, a 7.8-acre linear park, and don’t miss the nearby McLoughlin Conservation District’s homes brimming with Oregon history.
5. Canby Ferry
For over a century, the Canby Ferry has transported residents and visitors across the Willamette River, from the cities of Canby to Wilsonville and West Linn, as both a vehicle and walk-on ferry. Take a ride on the historic barge for impeccable views of the river and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as it’s one of three remaining ferries operating in Oregon.
6. Willamette Meteorite at Fields Bridge Park
With 19 acres for exploration, Fields Bridge Park offers an afternoon of kid-focused fun with walking paths, playgrounds and a fishing pier, to name a few. The most astonishing sight to see, next to the neighboring Tualatin River, is the Willamette Meteorite. The exhibit commemorates the 15.5-ton, iron meteorite, which is the largest in the U.S. and sixth-largest in the world.
7. George Rogers Park
This 26-acre community park is the perfect place to take in the Willamette River at its sandy beach by the confluence of Oswego Creek. The open grassy area above the beach is home to a historic Iron Smelter, a reminder of the area’s industrial past, and is the perfect spot for a family picnic.
For a bonus activity that’ll get you on the water, take a guided paddle trip from Oregon City to Willamette Falls, a magnificent waterfall that offers a wonderful backdrop for your next family portrait and learn about the area’s history along the way (great for kids ages eight and older).
Pro Tip: Before traveling the Heritage Trail, view the Mt. Hood Territory Heritage Trail interactive map, to locate all historical sites and find the best places to eat, shop and play along the way.
Hidden gems, secret doorways, meetings with wolves, and treehouses you can spend the night in are just some of the wild things you should do in LA
Known for sunny skies and a laid-back lifestyle, Southern California is also home to some of the most epic family-friendly activities. Here are 100 things to do in Los Angeles that you’ll find to be the experiences of a lifetime—from hidden gems to bucket list activities, our guide is vast and will keep your family busy for years to come.
1. LA, despite its expensive reputation, has a ton of free things to do with kids that are both fun and engaging. Start with a uniquely LA experience and take a stroll through the historic and picturesque Venice Canals. This peaceful hidden gem is European-inspired, full of quaint arched bridges, kayaks and swan boats. Kids will also love the “duck park” as locals affectionately call it.
2. Of course no one can hang in LA without a trip to the iconic Santa Monica Pier where you’ll get a birds-eye view of Santa Monica and the Pacific Ocean from the Pacific Park Ferris Wheel (the only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world!). Ride the West Coaster or try your skills at some of the iconic carnival games. Hungry? Head down to Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe below the pier for awesome burgers that won't break the bank.
3. Hike, eat, explore beaches, play at million-dollar view playgrounds, visit historical homes and museums all in the ‘bu! Spending the day in Malibu is fun, relaxing and always charming.
4. Pitch in and help our local environment by participating in a local beach cleanup day—a golden opportunity that is good for our planet and the soul.
5. LA farmer's markets are events unto themselves and you can shop the same leafy greens as celebrities. One of our favorites? The Sun. Mar Vista Farmer's Market, complete with live music and kids' activities. Make sure to stop Oma's Puffers to pick up Dutch mini pancakes (poffertjes)—a treat for everyone in the family.
6. Starting this summer, you’ll be able to sip (once again!) a Shirley Temple in the lobby of the “munchkin hotel” (aka The Culver Hotel), a gorgeous, historic landmark in Culver City located in the heart of one of LA's fastest-growing foodie destinations.
7. Grand Park, in DTLA, has tons of green spaces too and is close to all the action. There’s nothing like a good soaking on a hot day to cool off. Weekly food trucks make it a great place to nosh and chillax.
Chanin Victor
8. Lose yourself within the grand architecture of the largest library in Los Angeles and the third largest in the country. Central Library, a historical landmark that opened in 1926, has nearly 89 miles of shelves and seating for more than 1,400 people. It's big. And, in addition to books, you'll find art murals depicting California’s history and sculptures.
9. Soak up the art deco style at Union Station—the largest passenger train station on the west coast. Swing by evolving art exhibits and highlights on the importance of train travel.
10. Treat yourself and your Boo to Bae, a Little Tokyo soft serve ice cream shop that delivers palate-pleasing desserts with funky flavor combinations like earl grey and cocoa puffs that you'll have to taste to believe.
11. Spend hours wandering around looking at the murals near Olvera St. Besides the colorful street full of shops, guitars, marionettes and food, this is where LA started and is an excellent place to explore more about the history of Los Angeles.
12. A must for all LA Kids? A visit to marionettes at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Every show, you'll see over 100 unique handcrafted puppets take the stage and there might be ice cream at the end. Okay, there most definitely will be ice cream at the end.
13. Giant teacups, massive balloon animals, Alice in Wonderland-esque splashes of color and the Infinity Room will convince any kiddo that contemporary art is where it’s at. There's all of this and more at The Broad. Looking for a weekend activity? Hit up one of their family weekend workshops and then go to lunch at Otium, located right next door.
14. At the Skirball Cultural Center, there's a whole day of fun activities to check out—from the award-winning Noah's Ark exhibit to archeological digs—this special LA institution will become a favorite family spot.
15. Launch your kids' obsessions with science and technology at The California Science Center. Give them a hands-on experience with exhibits about lost civilizations, life beginnings, space exploration, ecosystems and more. Of course, you can't miss the Space Shuttle Endeavour. It's an absolute must.
16. It’s cool to hang out with 40,000-year-old fossils at the La Brea Tar Pits but maybe just as cool is rolling down the hill outside this museum.
17. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is one of the largest art museums in the world, home to both impressive permanent and temporary exhibitions. Take advantage of special events like the LACMA Kids art programs held throughout the year and the Andell Family Sundays to make art memories. Kids under 17 can sign up for a free NexGen Membership at LACMA and visit as often as you’d like (admission also includes one adult).
18. In Pasadena, visit KidSpace Children's Museum where little ones can trek through the Arroyo (bring a change of clothes), climb up a kid-size ant hole, walk across rope bridges and explore the Physics Forest—the best way to learn about how things move.
19. Nature gardens and dinosaur encounters are not all you’ll find at the Museum of Natural History. From Mar. thru Sept., the Butterfly Pavilion comes to life and then things take a hairy turn when the Spider Pavilion opens from Sept. thru Dec.
20. Do you have a penchant for peacocks? Go on a nature walk at the LA County Arboretum & Botanical Garden and keep an eye out for these display-worthy birds who freely walk the grounds morning, noon and night.
21. The LA Zoo is home to more than 2,200 mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles representing more than 270 different species, (of which more than 58 are endangered)—all within a walkable and stroller-able space. PS: Don't miss the churro sundae with chocolate sauce and whipping cream from the Churro Factory—it'll give everyone the energy kick they need to get through the day.
22. Want to learn more about the rarest group of apes in the Western Hemisphere? The Gibbon Conservation Center is the only institution in the world to house and breed all four genera of gibbons and you can tour this special place just one hour from DTLA.
23. Older kids will have a howling good time at the Shadowland Foundation's 2-hour educational tour. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience to meet and play with a pack of Alaskan Timber Wolves and also learn about conservation efforts to help protect this species.
24. It's officially whale-watching season from Jan. through Apr. and you can see whales by land, by sea, or by festival as they migrate south towards Baja.
25. Did you know that sea lions have ears, but seals do not? Find out more interesting animal facts about these sweet creatures at the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific. Get Tickets Here
26. Giddy-up cowboys and cowgirls—channel your inner Will Rogers at these kid-friendly horse-riding spots.
27. Every trip to Palm Springs should include date shakes and camel rides at the Living Desert Zoo.
28. Grab your bikes and head to Frogtown for some local delicacies at hip cafes along the LA River. It’s an ecologically sound recreational space where you can find LA artists and other cultural happenings. By 2023 you’ll be able to bike to San Pedro.
29. LA is known for hanging poolside in the sun but don't worry if you don't have your own—book a home with an epic pool.
30. Get serenaded with Italian arias, musical show tunes, and classical standards while you dine at Hollywood's oldest Italian restaurant, Miceli's.
31. Walk, hike, jog, and even take a family bike ride around the Hollywood Reservoir. You might recognize it from several Hollywood movies, and when you look up, you can see the Hollywood sign.
32. Low tide means it's time for tide pool exploration so grab those water shoes and head to the coast to see all the animals that call our shores home like starfish, mussels and other sea creatures.
33. Bringing Southern California's train history to life, visit Southern California Railway Museum to get up close and personal with the vast collection of historical locomotives, railcars, trolleys, 3-foot gauge, model trains, and more.
34. Sensory-friendly Saturday programs at the Grammy Museum are less crowded with quieter sound levels and lower lighting—a fantastic initiative for kids with sensory sensitivities so they can enjoy the museum as well.
36. Bewitched by illusion and sleight of hand? Make your weekends magical with brunch at The Magic Castle—it’s a private club, so you’ll need to know someone to get in, but once you do, both young and old will be enchanted and charmed by the hocus-pocus of local magicians.
37. Indians, cowboys, women, and pioneers—you'll find the stories of the pioneers of the American West at The Autry. Oh yea, you can also pan for gold.
38. At Universal Studios, you can experience The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Secret Life of Pets, The Minions, Simpsons, The Universal Studio Tour, and that's just the beginning. Don't miss Universal’s Animal Actors show where live animals and their handlers recreate famous movie scenes and show off their animal-tastic tricks. Get Tickets Here
39. Hop aboard the Enchanted Railroad, see cherry blossoms in full bloom, and go on a habitat scavenger hunt at Descanso Gardens.
40. The annual Doo-Dah Parade is on the list of 50 places to visit before you die. Don’t miss out on "America’s Best Parade" which takes place every Nov. in Pasadena.
41. Some bunny collected way too many rabbit tchotchkes and is now in the Guinness Book of World Records. The Bunny Museum also has three live rabbits so don’t forget to bring some carrots.
42. Take me out to the ball game! The LA Dodgers have the coolest mid-century baseball park in the country. Check it out, grab a Dodger Dog (also on our best hot dog in LA list) and watch them play ball!
43. In the spring, the LA Times Festival of Books brings together people who create books for the people who love to read them. Always a fan favorite, get your tickets before they’re sold out!
44. An old bank in DTLA was converted into The Last Bookstore. In addition to books-galore, it has stacks of literature in gravity-defying displays and hidden passageways that will delight both young and old.
45. The Getty Center is a marvel of modern architecture and design, and the views of the city are simply breathtaking. With an awesome family room area for kids to play and explore plus lots of space for strolling around and soaking in the beauty of the art and gardens, there's something here for everyone. Bonus? The ride up and down the hill via the tram.
46. About a half-mile from the LA Metro A-Line is the folk-art sculptures known as the Watts Towers by Simon Rodia. Constructed from steel rebar, concrete, and wire mesh and covered in pieces of porcelain, tile, glass, found objects, bottles, tiles, seashells, and mirrors, the monuments are dedicated to spirited individuals.
47. Explore the Children’s Garden at the Huntington Library and Gardens just don't forget to bring a towel or a change of clothes.
48. Go to the spot that’s been serving up burgers and banana creme pie since 1947. The Apple Pan is an LA institution, with some of the original staff still working there today.
49. Experience two masterpieces at Barnsdall Park. First, there's Frank Lloyd Wright’s historical Hollyhock House and then explore the grounds full of olive trees, making it a lovely way to spend the afternoon with the family. Plus you'll get breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.
50. When the calendar says it's fall, head to Lake Arrowhead to experience the crisp air and leaves changing colors on the trees. You'll almost think you're in Vermont during leaf-peeping season.
51. These incredible rock formations are out of this world (and often the backdrop for sci-fi movies for space settings). Hike the Vasquez Rocks in the Santa Clarita Valley.
52. Shop vintage shops and eat at so many amazing restaurants. Explore what makes Studio City such a desirable neighborhood to live and play. PS: Don't miss one of our favorite hotel staycations, located nearby.
53. CA is lucky to have some of the best National Parks in the country and one of the best—Joshua Tree—is just 1.5 hours away from DTLA.
54. You don't have to go to Venice, Italy to sit in an authentic gondola. Long Beach has 'em and it's a lot closer.
55. You’ll be enchanted by this charming laid-back island where buffalo still roam. Catalina Island is a fun weekend getaway with the family or just the two of you—after all, it is also known as the isle of romance.
56. The historic Ferris Wheel and retro candy shop are just a couple of reasons to check out the Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach. Take a ferry, or kayak to the walk-able island and determine who created the frozen banana.
57. From star-gazing in the desert to spending the night in a chuck wagon, these close-to-LA destinations are perfect for staycations or last-minute adventures.
58. Play tourist in your town with a visit to the Graumann’s Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can stand in the shoes of someone famous.
59. A staycation with a memorable twist are possible thanks to these Airbnbs in the middle of the city. Did someone say castle with a pool? So Fun!
60. One man’s junk is another man’s treasure. Find your own at one of LA's world-renowned vintage flea markets.
Chanin Victor
61. No matter what time of year, Moorpark’s Underwood Farm is a great time but it seriously shines during Underwood Farm's Fall Harvest Festival. This kid-friendly festival is when our city kids can cheer on a pig, get lost in a corn maze, bottle-feed a baby goat and pick a pumpkin.
62. Seems like every neighborhood wants to raise those Halloween spirits, but trick-or-treating in Toluca Lake seems to get a prize for the most over-the-top, spine-chilling-fun decor. Well, when you have Hollywood set designers living there, how could it not be spooktacular!
63. You’ll be able to play all day like a ranch hand then hit the hay at one of these California farm stays.
64. BAM. POW! Hike to the Bronson Caves and see where Batman stashed the Batmobile.
65. And if you’re looking for the real Batmobile, head to the Petersen Automotive Museum where it's on display; don't miss other movie favorites like, Back to the Future's DeLorean and more iconic, movie-famous cars.
66. Speaking of secret caves, LA's newest toy store CAMP in Century City is a family play destination with a secret bookcase leading to a camp-themed cave. Part toy store, part play destination, here you'll find fun activities, shopping, crafts and more.
67. Malibu Creek State Park is a great, 5-mile round trip hike to do with the family. It's also where the set of television's legendary program M*A*S*H was shot, a show your parents might remember from way back when.
68. Ice Skating at LA Live during the holidays feels like you're the star in your own movie. Skate around a huge Christmas tree covered in sparkling lights and then dine at one of the many restaurants nearby.
69. Celebrate The Festival of Lights at The Mission Inn in Riverside. From Nov. thru Jan., there's holiday music, hot cocoa, cookies, and Santa. Don't miss exploring the hotel with its hidden hallways, miniature doors, and secret passageways.
71. Altadena's famous Christmas Tree Lane brings the yuletide to the most festive season of the year! Ho Ho Ho!
72. A must-see light display for the holidays: the LA Zoo Lights is a keeper!
73. Holiday tree lighting events are spectacular in Tinsel Town and they are mostly free events, but we especially love the theatrical snowfall that takes place at The Grove during the holidays.
74. When visions of sugar plums start dancing in your head, you know it’s time to go to the Los Angeles Ballet's The Nutcracker—a holiday tradition.
75. There’s never a bad time of year to visit Solvang, but we love that for one month every year, it turns into the most Christmas-y town in America, and it’s just 3 hours from LA.
76. Into karate, aikido, judo, or kung fu? The Martial Arts History Museum in Burbank is an Asian education, cultural and artistic experience. Plus, you'll learn all about anime and sushi too. Definitely don't miss the Dragonfest Expo where you might see some of your favorite martial arts celebrities.
77. Fulfill all your childhood dreams and spend the night in one of these only-in California treehouses.
79. Who needs snow when you can sled the LA way—grab your boogie board and head to the sand berms! Venice Beach has some of the biggest dunes to slide down of any beach around.
80. Of course we sometimes have to work—these indoor play spaces are co-working-friendly spaces too.
81. How about a visit to the only airplane museum situated at LAX. Wander the aisles of the museum, learn about the history of aviation and view cool artifacts (flight suits, helmets, etc.) from all different airlines.
82. If you're really into aviation, grab some food at the Proud Bird Restaurant, with panoramic views of LAX’s approach runways and the coolest playground for the kids.
83. Street art is next level here with so many cool walls are scattered around LA. Keep an eye out for the hashtag #lamurals on Instagram to find the latest photo ops.
84. LA malls are more than shopping centers, they also have some of the most fun, kid-friendly climbing structures in town.
85. Read up on the latest Disneyland secrets before your next trip—secret menus, magic moments and morse code messages will make you feel like an insider.
86. Rainy Day? Head to Cayton Children’s Museum. You’ll find a real-life helicopter and ambulance, a suspended rope structure to climb through, and a mini-market along with interactive exhibits that will entertain the kids all day long. PS: It's a great spot even on sunny days.
87. High-flying adventures await at Santa Monica’s only Trapeze School because life is like a circus.
88. The Jet Propulsion Laboratory is where all things space are imagined and happen. Until the free in-person tours resume, you can virtually check out the JPL headquarters, including the spacecraft assembly facility, international space station and mission control. It’s out-of-this-world.
89. Holy Roly! Find out what’s so splendid about Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream and why no two visits are ever the same at Scoops!
90. Corn Hole, foosball, and big-screen TVs are aplenty at these kid-friendly breweries.
91. Support local farms with these mom-approved CSA boxes that deliver fresh produce your way.
92. If you find apples a-peel-ing, bob on over to the apple capital of SoCal to pick a bushel, press your own cider, churn butter and more.
93. Want the taste of Italy without the jetlag? Try all of these pizza spots open in LA that are sure to satisfy.
94. There’s nothing sweeter than a juicy red strawberry picked straight off the vine and CA strawberry picking is next level good. Warning: you may never eat a non-Californian grown strawberry again.
95. Check out the fantastic architecture of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir and practice peaceful meditation.
96. Stroller and kid-friendly hikes to see waterfalls and swim? LA has it all—from lava rock pools to waterfalls plus a few dreamy natural swimming holes. What about trying out the Ferndell Trail and hike up to the Griffith Observatory? Don't miss Trails Cafe on the way up (or down)!
97. A mini stay-cation with a day pass to a hotel pool is, hands down, the absolute best way to spend your Sat.
98. Gidget loved this sport and the Beach Boys sang about it so guess what, it’s time for a surfing lesson.
99. Love the beach, but hate the crowds? Locals always know where the best beach spots are to go with your crew, including the RAP info… restrooms, amenities and parking.
100. Everyone has their favorite go-to donut shop in LA and there's always a reason to eat them as far as we're concerned. Birthdays, holidays, any day that ends in a "y"!
The Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel is the beachfront oasis your family is looking for
Looking for an opportunity to get away, REALLY away? If the relaxed vibes of the Hawaiian islands are calling your name, we have the perfect property for your family to relax on the sand. Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel is known as “Hawai’i’s Most Hawaiian Hotel” and you can see why from the minute you arrive. The property doesn’t have the towering buildings of many other resorts along this stretch of Maui’s west coast and this translates into you being treated like family throughout your stay. The property recently renovated many of its rooms and now is the perfect time to visit as the crowds are smaller and the humpback whales are swimming right offshore.
Kā’anapali Beach Hotel
Located just steps from the famous snorkeling spot Black Rock, Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel is just a 45-minute drive from Kahului Airport. We suggest arranging a shuttle from the airport instead of booking a rental car as you’ll want to spend as much time as possible exploring the 11-acre property during your visit. The property’s size is particularly great for families as you can get down to the pool or beach in no time from any room.
When booking your rooms, you can choose from the “Premium” rooms in the renovated wings or the “Traditional” rooms in the non-renovated wing. Families will like the premium ground floor rooms that have access right to the grassy central courtyard, as well as the premium oceanview rooms with balconies. If you have a bigger family and want to book a space for you to spread out, the traditional wing has a family-sized room with ocean views. All rooms come with a mini fridge and coffee maker. The property also has laundry facilities.
Hawaiian Culture Permeates Your Stay at Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel
Kate Loweth
From the minute you enter the lobby at Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel, you’ll see all the opportunities to learn about Hawaiian culture. Head to the Kawenaokeao Cultural Center to sign up for classes like hula, lei kukui restringing, Hawaiian language, and traditional navigation techniques. Different classes are offered daily and they are free to property guests.
Kids should also ask for the interactive booklet that’s available for them to complete during their stay. They can complete a scavenger hunt to learn about local plants on the property, as well as learn about other important parts of Hawaiian culture and language. If they complete the booklet they can submit it for a special prize to take home with them!
Kā’anapali Beach Hotel
Ocean Activities at Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel
The sand is just steps away from your room at Kāʻanapali Beach Hotel and you’ll love being able to spread out your towel and enjoy the tranquility. If you are lucky, you just might spot a sea turtle in the shallow water, or humpback whales and spinner dolphins just offshore.
Families can book a semi-private cabana for the day to have a spot to store all their gear. Head to the Moanaku’inamoku Ocean Activities booth by the beach to rent snorkeling gear, beach umbrellas, SUP boards, and more. Beach towels can also be picked up here.
We highly recommend you book a guided snorkeling tour of Puʻu Kekaʻa (Black Rock) during your stay. This was a trip highlight and fun for kids and adults alike. Your guide will even snap underwater photos of your group so you have something to remember the event! If you are there during whale season, you just might be able to hear these majestic creatures under the water during your snorkel tour.
Dining at Kā’anapali Beach Hotel
Kate Loweth
You’re definitely going to want to dine at the new beachside restaurant Huihui while you are staying at Kā’anapali Beach Hotel. The modern Hawaiian menu includes favorites like loco moco for breakfast and fresh cod steamed in a taro leaf for dinner. The keiki menu is available for kids who are less adventurous eaters.
The relaxed, open-air atmosphere at Huihui is designed to honor the tradition of Polynesian wayfinding. Evenings offer live music and hula performances at Huihui and you can even reserve seating around the outdoor fire pits for your family. Don’t skip the banana bread ice cream sandwich for dessert—it’s a favorite!
In addition to Huihui, you can dine poolside at Welowelo where the teriyaki bowl and burger got top reviews. Hele On is your spot for grab-and-go coffee and pastries in the morning and there’s a small shop just off the lobby that has cold drinks and snacks available, along with necessities like reef-safe sunscreen and toiletries.
Nearby Activities
Kate Loweth
Whaler’s Village is located just a short walk from Kā’anapali Beach Hotel and it offers lots of dining and shopping opportunities. Here are some of our favorite things there:
In the rear of Whaler’s Village, you’ll find this outdoor play area for kids (look for the cotton candy vending machine up the stairs nearby).
Whaler’s Village is home to an ABC Store where you can find all the things you forgot at home like sun shirts and hats, along with snacks (try the spam musubi), Hawaiian souvenirs, and alcoholic beverages.
If you are looking for a quick meal at Whaler’s Village, Da Nani Pirates food truck is located right near the ABC Store and it had some great fish tacos along with lots of kid-friendly options. Picnic tables nearby mean you’ll be eating fast.
Kate Loweth
Downtown Lahaini is about 10 minutes away from Kā’anapali Beach Hotel and accessible via public buses as well as Uber. Walk around town to check out the massive banyan tree in the center square and dine at one of the many restaurants offering fresh seafood, fruity beverages, and island vibes. Here you can also book excursions like the Atlantis Submarine Ride (a must-do for families with little ones), whale cruises, and snorkeling adventures.
Sunsets for days, the sound of crashing waves, and the relaxation your family needs are all waiting for you at Kā’anapali Beach Hotel.
If you are itching to get out of the house and bring baby along, we have all the best things to do around Chicago
Along comes baby and life as you know it stops. Right? Not in Chicago! We know that once the baby comes along you need some time to adjust to your new “normal” and routine. But if you find yourself going stir-crazy and longing to get back out and about you may be wondering, what are the best places to go with a baby in tow around Chicago? Let this guide help you discover the best spots for a “Chicago baby” and perhaps some newfound appreciation for a longtime favorite.
This is one of our top recommendations to new parents, new residents, and even visitors who will be in town for an extended stay. With more than 70 unique branches throughout Chicago, not only can you visit your local branch, but you can make it an adventure and scope out branches in other parts of the city. The Chicago Public Library is a great place to duck out of the weather to change a diaper, have a snack, or nurse a baby. Be sure to get a library card for you and your kids as well, because not only are there tons of great books to borrow, but so much more like STEM Activities, Grab ‘n Go Activity Kits, Chromebook Kits, and (our favorite) the Museum Passports!
2. Get comfortable with that new stroller
From miles of walkable paths along the lakefront to what feels like endless greenspace and urban sidewalks, Chicago is a very walkable town! Check out your own neighborhood, or favorite park, stroll along the 606 or check out this guide to walking downtown with kids or this one for best hikes in the Chicagoland area.
3. Must-Visit Kid-Friendly Museums in Chicago
Museums are wonderful places to take a baby for a visit! Not only are most of Chicago’s museums free for kids three and under, but they also each have a little something special for the youngest of visitors. From special areas designed with kids at heart, such as the Crown Family Play Lab at the Field Museum, or a special low-sensory time to explore like at the Museum of Contemporary Art visiting these museums while the baby is young can be rewarding for the parents. You can still control the pace at which you explore, minus those essential stops for a feeding or diaper change, and feel as if you did something for yourself.
If you are looking for a museum that is fully designed with kids and play at heart, then take a visit to the Chicago Children’s Museum. CCM offers play and fun for kids up to about age nine, and they have Priztker’s Playspace which is just for babies and their caregivers to explore and connect through play.
If you want to visit the museums and save, be sure to check out the Free Admission Days offered throughout the year for Illinois and Chicago residents or you can check out one of the Museum Passports from the library for free admission for four guests to many great museums and attractions! For more ideas on museums to explore, check out Chicago’s Best Museums for Curious Kids.
Exercising after a baby can feel daunting but the effects for mom’s physical and mental well-being are undeniable. It’s also a great way to meet friends! Fit4Mom classes, such as the popular Stroller Strides, are offered all over the city. Plus many local gyms, such as the YMCA Chicago, YogaSix, Midtown Athletic, and Lakeshore Fitness, offer child-care so parents can focus on a great workout without worrying about the kids.
5. Visit Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
Going out to eat with a baby can feel daunting, but starting when they are young will help them learn how to dine out and open them to trying new flavors and foods as they grow older. Chicago has no shortage of great restaurants, even some that cater to families by offering space to wiggle, entertainment such as balloon artists, local musicians, over the top themes, and even dine-in movies. Other restaurants have families in mind with special menus for kids and special pricing too! So go ahead and enjoy a meal with your kids—without any stink eyes from other customers.
6. Get Baby Water Safe
Getting your baby used to the water early is one of the best things you can do, especially for babies in a city with 26 miles of lakefront and dozens of free beaches. Swim programs like Goldfish Swim School offer lessons at four months to get the tiniest tadpoles, and their adults, water safe! To find a school right for your family, check out our list of swim schools in Chicago.
7. Practice Your Yoga & Namaste with Mommy and Me Yoga
Regular yoga classes with your children have so many positive benefits beyond stretching and moving your bodies. Yoga has been shown to teach mindfulness, and self-awareness and working together with their grown-up can deepen their connection. It also helps to reduce stress! You and your Little Buddha can join Buddha Belly Kids Yoga at locations throughout Chicago for classes – such as Zen Yoga Garage or the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum.
8. Learn about Baby Wellness from the Experts
Babies are hard at first—they communicate in ways that are foreign to us with cries, and other mystifying noises and expressions. Enter Chicago’s premier infant wellness practice, Metta Baby which is on a mission to provide a support system for parents and infants as young as two weeks old. Here you can engage in activities that not only promote the baby’s physical well-being but also which will help to create a strong bond between parent and child.
9. Visit these nearby Chicago Beaches
With two dozen free beaches along Lake Michigan and a summer season that is as close to perfection as you can get. A visit with your baby is a great way to spend the morning. Early mornings are a quieter time if you want to avoid a crowded beach on those late summer days, but no matter the time, just be sure you have shade to keep you all protected.
10. Attend a Breastfeeding Class in Chicago
Just because something is described as “natural” doesn’t make it necessarily easy. For new moms looking for support with breastfeeding, there are multiple places to reach out for help! Our favorite resources are the La Leche League, Baby Bistro Group from UChicago Medicine, and Chicago Family Doulas. Moms can ask questions and find answers via their websites. One-on-one help can also be arranged either via zoom or in person. Groups and classes also provide new moms a chance to connect with other moms, build their offline support group and create friendships.
11. Nurture a Love of Reading
Beyond our amazing Chicago Public Library system, Chicago is home to the American Writers Museum which allows children to enjoy books in their cozy Children’s Literature Gallery. One of the best things about reading is that it can be done just about anywhere. From the family room to the park, or even on the “L” train, so keep some books handy and read a little every day with your baby.
12. Take Baby for Their First Haircut
The time will eventually come for your baby to get their first haircut. To make it a memorable experience, some salons offer special packages. Rock Hair Scissors in the Edgewater neighborhood even offers a little first-cut certificate, keepsake lock, and balloon. Does the idea of mini-meltdown stress you out? Then consider TLC Family Hair Care, Chicago’s premier mobile salon for families. TLC comes to you and offers a low-stress appointment whether it is your first cut or your hundredth.
13. Shop the Farmers Market
Get your baby used to a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables by visiting a local farmers market. They’re colorful, and smell delicious and many vendors offer samples. You can event find live music, puppet shows, and other kid-friendly entertainment. Most outdoor markets run from about May through October before the indoor markets pop up for the winter months of November through April. The markets often are held near playgrounds and can be a great spot for an impromptu meet-up or playdate.
Chicago may be a large urban area, but there are still plenty of green spaces to explore and enjoy with your baby. These are also great spots to try out that baby carrier and give the stroller a rest. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is an all-season favorite with the combination of outdoor spaces to explore and indoor fun such as the Butterfly Haven and the new Nature Playspace. Also great for little ones to explore (and a great place for laying on a blanket and reading!) are the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Chicago Botanic Garden. If you are looking for a little adventure out of the city, head to the Morton Arboretum which is home to one of the best child-focused gardens and offers miles of trails for walking.
15. Take a Baby Class Together
Join up with other parents and their babies to sing, dance and play. Bubbles Academy (Mag Mile/Lincoln Park/Highland Park) is a one-stop shop for all things baby classes. Since Chicago is a music-loving town there are also tons of great options for music classes throughout the city, plus Stages Chicago has created a unique curriculum to blend song, movement, and musical theater into classes for kids from birth to high school.
Free and open to visitors all year long is the Lincoln Park Zoo. Recently the zoo has built a new home for its growing lion pride and has also updated the play structure within the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. The Farm-in-a-Zoo is also a wonderful place to explore for kids of all ages, as well as the Lionel Train Adventure and Endangered Species Carousel. With a nearby playground, miles of park to explore, and one of the city’s best farmers markets, entire days can be spent here!
17. Take a Boat Cruise through Chicago with Your Baby
Okay, maybe you won’t need to actually ROW the boat, but with the lake to the east and the river flowing through the city’s heart, by water is one of the best ways to take in the Windy City. Our favorite for families is the Chicago Fire Boat which is one part tour, one part floating museum, and a whole lot of fun! Another great way to explore during warm weather is to hop on theChicago Water Taxi—either as a mode of transportation or just for fun!
18. Visit a Nearby Chicago Farm
If your trip to the Farm-in-the-Zoo has you looking for more fun down on the farm then Chicagoland has you covered! Check out these seven Chicagoland spots where you can get more animal connection time and maybe even go for a tractor ride or pick berries in season.
19. Discover the Wonderful World of Splash Pads around Chicago
In the warm months, the city turns on hundreds of splash pads, fountains, and water features which offer a perfect way for little ones to cool off on a hot day.
And if Baby has older siblings, we have a fantastic list of thebest things to do in Chicago with kidsto help you out! Don’t worry, many of the places that are great for baby are also great for those older kids.