Few places offer as many things to do as Long Island. In what other region of the country, for example, can you treat your kids to a morning museum visit in Nassau County, then whisk them off later to one of the most talked-about beaches in the Hamptons?

For the record, yours truly is a Long Island native with roots on the East End. I’ve lived in all three sections of Long Island before settling in central Suffolk, where I am raising my kids. Much as I struggle with the winter snowstorms, summer humidity, Long Island Rail Road delays, and seemingly endless parkway traffic, I’d never live anywhere else. 

No, you won’t suffer from a shortage of things to do here, and I've put together a 3-day itinerary showcasing some of the area's riches, which include pro sports, state parks, seasonal celebrations, amusement parks, farm fun, and plenty more. And if you like sand on your toes, Long Island has some of the finest and most kid-friendly beaches in the Northeast. So the plan here is to introduce you to a number of must-do things when visiting Long Island.

If you think about it, the Florida Keys are truly an ideal family vacation destination. Where else can the kids enjoy postcard sunsets, crystal seas, gentle breezes, and exciting water sports without having to leave the country? But until a recent hotel building boom, the Keys have largely been the playground of overstressed grown-ups soaking in the Margaritaville vibe. Mommy Poppins readers know that’s changing. In 2021, we shared our favorite Florida Keys resorts and hotels for families. The latest addition to that list is Playa Largo Resort & Spa.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa is located in the south end of Key Largo, less than two hours from Miami. Part of Marriott’s boutique Autograph Collection, the 178-room resort features a pool, water sports, on-site dining, and one of the few true beachfronts in the rocky Keys. Check out our review of Playa Largo, then visit our Florida Family Travel Guide for more fun in the Sunshine State.

Occasionally referred to as Newport’s little cousin, Narragansett offers families a four-seasons getaway minus the touristy hustle and bustle of Rhode Island’s more celebrated destination a few miles to the east. And we've got you covered with tips on the best things to do in Narragansett with kids once you get there.

Narragansett is more intimate than Newport, whose trendy shops and stately mansions attract visitors from New England to the New York metropolitan area and beyond. But if you’re eager for some fun with the kids at less than Newport prices, pay a visit to Narrangansett, accessible in less than 90 minutes from Boston and less than an hour from the New London ferries that connect to Long Island.