20+ Weird Things to Do in Upstate New York on a Road Trip

World’s Largest Garden Gnome statue at Kelder’s Farm in Kerhonkson, one of the weird things to do in Upstate New York

A curated list of genuinely cool, legitimately weird things to do in Upstate New York… all researched and saved to the TLJ Weird & Wonderful Map so you don’t have to. Let’s be honest… Upstate New York is quietly one of the most bizarre, beautiful, and underrated parts of the Northeast. It has the world’s […]

Top New York Vacation Rentals with Private Indoor Pools

Family relaxing at the edge of an indoor pool during a Northeast vacation rental stay

You don’t need perfect weather, a perfect schedule, or perfect kids to have a great family trip. The one thing that always works for an unforgettable family getaway…  your own private indoor pool. That’s why these New York vacation rentals with private indoor pools are such a parent win, especially when the weather keeps us guessing. The […]

2025 Map: Best Things to do in Manhattan in December

Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree lit up at night surrounded by sparkling lights, a must for Things to do in Manhattan in December

New York City in December doesn’t need selling… it sells itself.  But what most visitors don’t realize is that the holiday magic is in the details.  As a New York City local (and parent who’s done this every way possible… from stroller naps to school breaks), I’ve mapped out the best things to do in Manhattan in December… the real […]

Cold Spring NY Day Trip: What to Do, Eat + See

Main Street shopping in downtown Cold Spring NY.

Looking for an easy escape from New York City that doesn’t require hours of travel or complicated planning? Cold Spring NY, is the kind of place that makes you wonder why you don’t head up the Hudson River more often. It’s a charming small town with a Main Street full of unique shops, good food, […]

These 9 Upstate New York Getaway Ideas are Parent Gold

I Love NY sign at Adirondack rest stop in Upstate New York.

You don’t need a big family vacation to make big family memories. An Upstate New York getaway can be as simple as a weekend of mini golf, boat rides, and quirky museums that surprise even the grown-ups. Experience rail biking through the Hudson Valley, glassblowing on Main Street, and hands-on museums your kids will talk […]

Lasorda Legacy Park Guide: Where to Eat, Stay, & Play Nearby

Young baseball player fielding at Lasorda Legacy Park.

Baseball tournament weekends at Lasorda Legacy Park come with early mornings, long afternoons, and a surprising amount of time to fill between games. If you’re heading to Yaphank, NY (aka Baseball Heaven), this guide breaks down exactly where to stay, eat, and spend time nearby so the weekend feels a little easier for everyone… not […]

TWA Hotel Secrets No One Tells You (But I Will)

Boarding stairs leading into the TWA Hotel’s Connie airplane.

The TWA Hotel at JFK Airport looks incredible in photos. And, honestly, it’s just as fun in real life…especially with kids. If you’re thinking about booking a stay at this one-of-a-kind hotel, there are a few things you’ll want to know first. From what the rooms are really like to how the TWA Hotel rooftop […]

Rainy Day in New York City? Here’s Where to Take the Kids…

A young girl in a yellow raincoat holding a clear umbrella while smiling on a rainy day in New York City.

Let’s be honest… a rainy day in New York City with kids is either a great story or a total disaster. The difference is having a plan. The good news? NYC is one of the best cities in the world for indoor activities. Slime museums, indoor play spaces, immersive art experiences, private karaoke rooms, indoor […]

51+ Free Things to Do in Manhattan That Are Actually Cool

A woman kayaking in the Hudson River with the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline at sunset, one of the best free things to do in Manhattan.

Visiting New York City with kids can feel like a nonstop game of “Wait, how much is that?!” But here’s the good news…not everything in NYC comes with a hefty price tag. This ultimate guide to free things to do in Manhattan (created by a local!) is packed with unique, family-friendly fun that’ll keep your […]

8 Winning Restaurants in Lake Placid for Hungry Teams

Teenagers enjoying pizza at a table in one of the top restaurants in Lake Placid for groups.

Lake Placid tournament weekends move fast. Between game schedules, downtime between matchups, and a group of hungry kids and parents, figuring out where to eat shouldn’t be the hardest part of the trip. This guide covers the best restaurants in Lake Placid for group dining, with spots that work for teams, families, and anyone traveling […]

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