Zoe Butenhoff

We searched the city and found the best things to do in Nashville—with kids—that guarantee a successful visit...and that means finding activities that are both educational and entertaining, so that they're fast asleep for the whole trip home. Time to start figuring out where to stay!  While the city screams country music and might inspire a Johnny Cash jam session or two, you don't necessarily have to embrace its musical roots (though, of course, we're all for a trip to the Grand Ole Opry). There are plenty of things to do in Nashville that satisfy all interests, after all. Branch out with trip to local museums that boast interactive science exhibits and free family art programs. Grab a bite at some of the best restaurants in Nashville, one of which puts a quirky twist on breakfast that the kiddos will appreciate. And, when the temperatures begin to soar, head outside and cool off with a dip in J. Percy Priest Lake.  As your trip down south comes to a close, make sure to enjoy the best brunch in Nashville before making your way to the airport.  RECOMMENDED: Complete guide to the best things to do in Nashville

Are your blankets ready? The season of free summer movies is upon us, and we're anxiously awaiting screenings of classic films, great cartoons and those live-action remakes that Disney does so well.  As we usher in the warm weather, it's only fitting to add these events to our list of outdoor activities for kids. The FREE screenings are a quintessential start to the summer for New Yorkers of all ages. Where else are you going to catch your favorite Disney princess movies and movies for tweens on the big screen? No theater or ticket required—just a lawn chair and some popcorn!  Have a gander of the movies in the park NYC families will love thanks to our roundup below. Parents, you'll also want to add Rooftop Cinema Club's June lineup to your calendar. Be sure to check back frequently for an updated list of family-friendly screenings. The movies below are rated PG–13 and under. Visit nycparks.org for more information.  Summer Movies Under the Stars: Brave Wednesday, July 17 at 7pm. Free. Rated PG. Prospect Park Long Meadow, Brooklyn, NY Summer Movies Under the Stars: Babe: Pig in the City Wednesday, July 31 at 7pm. Free. Rated PG. Prospect Park Long Meadow, Brooklyn, NY Citi Summer in the Square: Space Jam Thursday, Aug 1 at 6:30pm. Free. Rated PG. Union Square North Plaza, Manhattan, NY Citi Summer in the Square: Ghostbusters Thursday, Aug 8 at 6:30pm. Free. Rated PG. Union Square North Plaza, Manhattan, NY Central Park Conservancy Film Festival: Back to the Future Tuesday, Au

School might not be in session, but kids are definitely hitting the books. Thanks to awesome summer reading programs, youngsters will be able to enjoy a literary bonanza all season long. Venture to great kids' library branches or your family's favorite bookstores in NYC and let the fun begin! These programs are not only designed to be engaging, but beneficial when the "summer slump" threatens to creep in.  Even better? There are some pretty sweet incentives for finishing great children's books, so don't be surprised if your kiddos decide to channel Rory Gilmore. Take a gander at our favorite summer reading programs and see which ones are best for your brood!  

All-aboard! Grab a seat on the Nostalgia Ride beach-bound for Coney Island on Saturday, July 20 at 10am. 1910s BMT B-Type Standards and 1930s IND R1-9 cars, will depart from the 96 St-Second Ave station and arrive at the Stillwell Ave station. Once on the funky isle, venture to Luna Park and Deno's, enjoy views from the Boardwalk and munch on a hotdog and curly fries from Nathan’s. If you’re looking to learn a bit of history, visit the Coney Island Museum to take a look at the New York Transit Museum's exhibition "Five Cents to Dreamland: A Trip to Coney Island." Hop back on the train at 4pm for a ride back to the “mainland” with select stops in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Tickets for this scenic ride are $50 for adults and $25 for children. Make sure to purchase your tickets in advance for a guaranteed day of summer fun! All ages. 

Calling all foodies! You're going to want to make your way to CMOM. Marcus Samuelsson—the mastermind behind Red Rooster Harlem—will teach visitors how to make the perfect “El Barrio Summer Taco!" Not only will this event be super delicious and family-friendly, but it is also free. What’s better than a delectable, juicy taco free of charge? (We can't think of anything!) Due to limited space, the event will be a first-come, first-served function hosted at the lower level of the Let’s Dance exhibit. So, head out an hour before start time to secure your spot for some supreme tacos with a supreme chef! All ages. 

We are a in favor of the 92Y’s numerous, family-friendly activities, and this summer they’re offering a whole array of events for both kids and parents. The first is called Splash ‘N Play which is ongoing and drop-in on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2:30pm. It’s recommended for ages 1–3 and costs $20 for the first child ($15 for every additional child). This program takes place on the Nursery School Playground for an hour of jungle-gym fun including water activities—including spray bottles! The second program is for new parents and takes place on Aug 7 and Aug 14 from 10:30 am–noon for $20 per session.The last program is actually for grandparents who (though they’ve navigated parenthood) have yet to encounter the special experience of being a grandparent! Grandparents will be able to receive expert advice from the Parenting Center staff on Aug 6 from 10:30 am–noon or $45 per couple. Take advantage of these great opportunities and strengthen your familial connections this summer season!

Stop by FAO Schwarz on July 20 to be among the first to play with a new collectable doll brand from ‘Moose Toys’ called Goo Goo Galaxy. These toys are truly out of this world! While here, enjoy interactive activities such as face painting and crafts! All ages. 

This Sunday head to the beloved Central Park (Rumsey Playfield) for City Parks Foundation’s Family Day! Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy music, puppets, games and so much more. Even Disney will be on-site with a family activity station, prizes and a Disney Theatrical group performance. The event is completely is sure to brighten up your sleepy Sunday! All ages.

Nothing screams summer like a festive and fun block party! North 3rd Street Market (located at 103 N 3rd St) will be hosting a FREE summer block party from noon–4pm this weekend to celebrate its vibrant community and the five new vendors that have just been added this season. Attendees can expect a whole array of festivities like arcade games, live DJ sets, face painting, balloon twisting, musical performances by Ari the Singalong Guy and great eats from new vendors like Brooklyn Shave Ice, Bun, Lobster Joint and DiFara Pizza. Plus, there will even be a pierogi eating contest hosted by Baba’s Pierogies! Guests who RSVP to the block party have the opportunity to win a special giveaway; The first 15 RSVPs will receive $15 worth of market bucks and a tote filled with special goodies. And the lucky attendee who uses the market geotag on their post and receives the most likes will receive a special N3SM prize! All ages. 

Perhaps your little one is a budding francophile? If so, the Cultural Services of the French Embassy is launching a four-day festival, Fly Away with Books, which will help children of all backgrounds rediscover their love of reading. Until July 14, renowned French illustrators and authors will host playful and imaginative workshops in venues throughout the city. For Bastille Day weekend, the Cultural Services of the French Embassy will host a free outdoor festival, Films on the Green on Friday July 12 at Tompkins Square Park. Lastly, if your tiny tots are looking to learn more about France and its culture, including practice their French, listen to the new podcast by the Cultural Services of the French Embassy called The Thing About France! Click here for the full schedule. 

Celebrate the magic of the outdoors on Saturday, July 20 at any of the 100+ community gardens throughout the city (more info here). These community gardens will open their gates from 11am–3pm to host FREE activities and entertainment including arts and music, greening and composting tutorials and gardening workshops. All ages. 

On Sunday July 21, the Rubin Museum of Art will host its annual Block Party, dubbed “Power Play” for this year. This all-day, free outdoor event will feature musical performances, free museum admission, art-making opportunities, and much more. Activities will incorporate the theme of Power, which the museum has been exploring all year long. The Party is not one to miss and will take over West 17th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues from 1 pm to 4 pm. There will even be delectable snacks and refreshments from an array of NYC’s favorite vendors. All ages.  

Looking for a fun, free and family-friendly activities this summer season? Look no further than the Live at the Archway series on Thursdays under the Manhattan Bridge Archway—a beautiful covered outdoor space right here in the Big Apple. The evenings kickoff at 5:30 pm with an opener meant to peak the youngsters’ interest, and followed by headliners that the whole family can enjoy! Additionally, each week, a different local artist is featured in the Archway’s pop-up gallery, which is part of Nathan Sinai Rayman’s GALLERY CUBED. On July 11, there will be a concert by GarageSoul-inspired singer-songwriter Eli Paperboy Reed preceded by an opening set by the High & Mighty Brass Band—and featuring an art exhibit dubbed “Under the Magnifying Glass” curated by Claudia Bitran, Hilary Doyle and Catherine Haggarty of the NYC Crit Club. On July 18, there will be a performance by hip hop group, Kombilesa Mi, who blend traditional Columbian rhythms and instruments with lyrics in both Spanish and Palenquero. Their set will be preceded by an interactive puppet show by Puppetsburg and, additionally, a featured art exhibit called “It All Adds Up” by Joshua Reynolds. On July 25, Trip Rasteirinho will perform the opening set and will be followed by a concert performed by Caique Vidal and Batuque, a band which mixes the sounds of Afro-Brazilian percussion with keyboards, bass, guitar, and horns. An exhibit by Apolo Torres called “INCLUSION: A Classic Point of View in a Contemporary Urban World”

A Little Princess, a musical based on the famed novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, will debut at the Pershing Square Signature Center. The musical follows a young girl Sarah, who, after living in India, moves to London with her father, the wealthy Captain Crewe. Sarah, who begins attending Miss Minchin’s Select Seminary for Young Ladies, faces an array of challenges after unfortunately losing nearly all of her wealth—ultimately learning that a true princess is determined by her own actions and outlook on life.

Venture down to the Williamsburg waterfront for summer Sunday Domino Park events! On select dates, the park will host a variety of entertaining functions such as reading, singing and dancing. On Aug 18, Songs for Seeds will host an interactive class for children, newborn to 6 years old, to sing, dance and play along with a live band. Kids will have the opportunity to play with drums, guitars, keyboards, and other instruments from around the world. Through seven different activities, teachers will show kids music and language from different cultures from around the globe—giving them the chance to create magnetic art murals as well as witness amazing magic tricks. Ages 0 and up. 

This summer season, don’t be surprised if you see a vending machine filled with something other than chips, candy or soda. Jet Blue’s initiative, the Soar With Reading program, placed six vending machines throughout the five boroughs for the first time since its 2015 founding and packed them with picture books and kids' novels. The selections are for everyone, from toddlers to 14-year-old readers, and they’re completely FREE. Even better? They're yours to keep—no returns necessary! The goal of the program is to promote reading during the summer months, particularly in under-served communities. The book genres and designated age ranges all vary, so there is most definitely something for the perfect storytime for kids. Additionally, the vending machines will be refilled every two weeks, so youngsters can come back for new stories and genres, which may even include kids' books about NYC!  Photograph: Courtesy JetBlue Curious about the locales? We'll help you find 'em:  Brooklyn:Brownsville Recreation Center on 1555 Linden Blvd Bronx: PAL, Inc. New South Bronx Center on 991 Longwood Ave Manhattan: Riverbank State Park on 679 Riverside Dr Queens: the Queens Public Library (Main Branch) on 89-11 Merrick Blvd and Ocean Bay Community Cornerstone on 67-10 Beach Channel Dr Staten Island: Faber Park on Richmond Terrace If your tiny bookworms are still in search of a great read (and want to leave a few stories in the vending machines for their peers) be sure to check out the best b

In search of an adventure? NYC just debuted two new VR experiences, and they deserve a spot on your list of things to do with kids.  Say hello to new places—without leaving Brooklyn! VRBAR, the borough's first virtual reality arcade, allows game lovers ages 8 and up to walk across a plank, hang off a skyscraper and shoot spaceships while trying to dodge bullets during a zombie apocalypse. Yikes! There is no end to the visually stunning and truly immersive explorations offered ($14 for 15 minutes), so let the venue (located at 65 Jay St) take up some real estate on your summer bucket list. The VRBAR is open from Wednesdays to Sundays from noon–8pm and Mondays and Tuesdays by appointment. Another hot VR spot is set to open today! Escape Virtuality, a new state-of-the-art entertainment complex in Chelsea (130 W 29th St), includes simulators, an augmented reality rock climbing wall, virtual reality escape games and high-tech escape rooms (like Ghost Collector and Mission Galaxy Rescue) that are full of surprises.These interactive challenges (various prices), which are delivered from full-motion car racing simulators and multi-directional treadmills with 360-degree views, are great for visitors roughly 5 and up. Each movement in the real world triggers an instant action in the virtual world and fast tracks you to a new world on demand. (Book your experience online!) What are you waiting for? Give these places a go! While you're at it, make sure to stop by our favorite kid-friendl

New York City Restaurant Week is back! From July 22—Aug 16, you and your foodie fam will be able to get great deals on your favorite dishes. The promotional program will highlight over 370 participating restaurants’ prix-fixe menus for lunch (two courses for $26) and/or dinner (three courses for $42).  Can't find a babysitter? If you're taking advantage of the sweet Restaurant Week perks with the kids in tow, here are the great family restaurants and fun restaurants to hit with your crew. (Hint: New York pizza is involved.)  Barano For some zesty ‘za, head to Albert Di Meglio’s Barano in Williamsburg. Your mini foodies will be oohing and ahhing over the handmade pasta dishes, like ricotta tortellini, or the classic (but never tired) margherita pizza. Blue Smoke  It’s no secret little ones love good, old-fashioned BBQ (honestly, who doesn’t?). Check out Blue Smoke in Battery Park City for some delish soul food like barbecue baby back ribs and skillet mac n’ cheese. Dos Caminos At four different locations, Dos Caminos has got you covered, wherever you are. Their tried-and-true enchiladas and tacos will be a good match for every kid and parents’ palate. Naples 45 Ristorante e Pizzeria Some kids literally live off pizza, and we get that. Naples 45 Ristorante e Pizzeria, located in the MetLife Building in Midtown, will give you that thin-crust, classic Italian pie that you crave. Buttermilk Channel  Buttermilk Channel, in Carroll Gardens is a classic American bistro that’s

Take a trip down Memory Lane this Saturday when a historic 1917 BMT Standard Train journeys out to Coney Island from 96th Street-2nd Avenue station at 10am. Once onboard, you'll be able sit back, relax and take in the sights as this 102-year-old train chugs along to Stillwell Ave Station. There are countless fun things to do in Coney Island right now that should make the summer excursion a day to remember—from a ride on the Cyclone to a visit to the Coney Art Walls. You can also visit the Coney Island Museum for New York Transit Museum’s exhibition Five Cents to Dreamland: A Trip to Coney Island to learn more about the history of the funky oceanside nabe. After a day spent in the sun, the train will depart for the “mainland” at 4pm, making select stops in Brooklyn and Manhattan. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are $50 for adults and $25 for children (general public) or $35 for adults and $20 for children (museum members). Photograph: Courtesy New York Transit Museum          

Head to Williamsburg for a world filled of wonder—literally! After a 2018 stint in Soho, WonderWorld NYC is back for a whole new chapter of stories in a mythical, immersive realm. This year, the pop-up exhibit will run until Nov 4, and it's an epic family attraction to add to your summer bucket list (especially for the fantasy and fairytale readers in your brood).  Photograph: Courtesy WonderWorld + Fai Chen The photo-worthy spectacle will deconstruct Alice in Wonderland and add exciting new aspects to the experience. The set is characterized by a connected maze of fairytale installations, from ancient Roman times to modern NYC. It's safe to say there's no shortage of areas to explore!  Photograph: Courtesy WonderWorld + Fai Chen You'll certainly want to bring your little storybook fans to WonderWorld for a chance to experience their own fairytale. Visitors can choose their own tour, from a moon-like celeb experience and a true mushroom escape, to a new mirror room installation with swiveling space-like chairs. The dreamy pastel pink spaces and whimsical decor lend themselves to adorable pics. There is even the WonderWorld signature NYC Apple sanctuary where families can get a flavor for a new urban adventure! Photograph: Courtesy WonderWorld + O Zhang If you're looking for another immersive experience now that the pop-up planetarium has closed for the summer, WonderWorld is a good place to venture. Book your tickets ($29, $18 for children ages 5–12, free for children

National Ice Cream Day on July 21 is a particularly notable holiday and one of the best summer activities for kids...and parents!  There's an endless array of ice cream shops in NYC where you can purchase delicious frozen treats. And this weekend, many of those Instagrammable dessert spots will host great deals so that you can revel in a cheerful ice cream haze. Read on for the scoop!  The Nutella Café From 3–5 pm, the first 50 hungry customers to visit the Union Square spot will receive one free frozen Nutella Pop topped with chopped hazelnuts. But if you aren’t one of the first 50 ice cream lovers, don’t worry. Until 5 pm, customers will receive a complimentary scoop of a gelato flavor of their choice, including Artigianale (gelato made from Nutella). Milk and Cream Cereal Bar Venture to Milk and Cream Cereal Bar (159 Mott St), where you will be able to get a free cup of ice cream if you are one of the first 50 lucky customers on July 21. The shop opens at noon!  Melt Bakery If you are looking to spice up a basic ice cream cup, go to Melt Bakery for a delicious and decadent ice cream sandwich. The shop at 132 Orchard St will offer buy-one-get-one free on its July monthly special, “Luigi," which is a yummy sandwich of Pistachio Ice Cream between two Chocolate Cherry Cookies. Count us in!  GODIVA If you're a fan of GODIVA’s creamy chocolate, head over to a GODIVA boutique for a buy-one-get one 50 percent off deal on soft serve and parfaits this Sunday. The available flavors

Following a dark and quiet Gotham this past Saturday night, our concrete jungle will be blindingly bright and hot this week as temperatures are expected to soar sky high in the coming days.  Today and tomorrow’s high temperatures will be near 90 degrees. On Thursday, while we all get a short break from the heat with a “tepid” 86 degree high, you’ll still have plenty to fret over with likely rain showers all day and even a possible thunderstorm. But following Thursday's already seemingly hot forecast, things really start to sizzle. Friday’s high is predicted at 94 degrees, but could feel closer to 103 degrees. We just can’t wait for that… And as if that wasn’t reason enough to spend the day face-first in front of an AC unit, Saturday and Sunday really take the ice cream cake for flaming temps. Saturday’s high is estimated near 96 degrees, with 79% humidity, while Sunday is expected to reach a 92 degree high, best complemented by apartment hibernation and a pint of some frozen treat (It is National Ice Cream Day after all! Check out these ice cream shops to get your sweet fix.)  While we certainly can’t control the sun’s scorching rays or our city’s surprising ability to hold the heat, there are countless ways to cool off during the heat wave. Embrace the sunshine and head out to one of NYC’s best beaches—with an oversized umbrella and jumbo tube of sunscreen in-hand. (And don't forget that the best NYC parks literally shine in the sun.) You could also take a chance to escape

Your Pokémon Go addiction is about to soar to new levels as the world of Pokémon comes to life courtesy of a one-time-only pop-up bar this fall. C'mon, what could be better than ditching your iPhone for the real thing as your crew competes to be the ultimate trainers of this league? The event, which is coming to NYC on November 3, 17, 24 and December 1, will be divided into seven unique regions (each lasting about two hours) where you will be able to hunt all the creatures you desire while swigging an immense variety of Pokémon-themed cocktails. Not only will your playing abilities be put to the test, but show up in your most wacky, extra costume and you could be awarded best-dressed. You know we’ll be there in our finest game-themed attire—so don’t sleep on your outfit. DJs will be spinning the hippest tracks as you spin around each division in a battle of the hottest hunter, and you might even win a division prize… And to ensure that the competition doesn’t become too fierce, there will be delectable cheeseburgers to nosh on while chatting up the other Pokémon-lovers. Oh, and it gets even better: These toothsome bites resemble the characters themselves—complete with buns painted with the adorable faces you know all too well. Make sure you get your chance at IRL Pokémon fame by pre-registering for tickets online today. They run thirty-five dollars a piece. Halloween is coming early this year, and we are totally here for it; So, buckle up for the ride of your video-game life.

Nothing quenches your thirst like an icy, sweet Slurpee on a hot day, so why not indulge? (Did we mention the treats are free?) This Thursday (aka 7-Eleven Day), thirsty tots and guardians across the country can pick up a complimentary small Slurpee drink at participating 7-Eleven stores from 11am–7pm p.m. After a day at camp, a few hours at our favorite water playgrounds for kids or beaches for kids, you and the littles will certainly need to refuel. Why not do so with a Blue Raspberry Slurpee?  The fun doesn't stop with freebies. If your little sugar has a major sweet tooth, then sign up to be a 7Rewards member because those members who scan their app, card or phone number with their complementary Slurpee on July 11 will receive another free any size Slurpee drink, which they can claim within the next 30 days. And, if you want a yummy snack to go along with your drink, there will be an array of treats for just $1 available in-store.The list of enticing nibbles include hot pizza slices, Nashville hot chicken tenders, big bite hot dogs, and limited-time cherry Slurpee cookies. If you're still hungry, there's more to look forward to. Kids who just can’t get enough of the candy-in-a-cup can also place an order on July 12 through the 7NOW® delivery app to receive another free Slurpee drink—and this time it will be a medium size. This year, the featured Slurpee flavor is Blueberry Lemonade and the Slurpee Lite flavor is sugar-free Cherry Limeade. Celebrate the #slurplife and rid

Located in the heart of Central Park lies the exquisite Belvedere Castle which has now reopened after a 15-month long period of renovations. The castle, a picture perfect structure straight out of a Disney movie and complete with a charming lookout tower, was first conceived by the park’s designers, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, in 1858. At first, the castle was just used as a beautiful accent to the surroundings, then in 1919 it was transformed into the U.S. Weather Bureau and was closed off to the public until it reopened in 1983. Since then, the park palace has further deteriorated until about a year and a half ago when the Conservatory decided to restore the structure to its former allure. These renovations highlighted cleaning and repainting the Belvedere’s exterior and interior masonry, installing new drainage and waterproofing systems, recreating a wood tower, restoring the wood pavilions, upgrading lighting, replacing existing windows, doors, and terrace pavements, repairing interior floors and ceilings and modernizing mechanical systems and utility services. The castle officially reopens on June 28, but the final touch to the restoration will include a route from the Castle to the East Drive for accessibility. To celebrate this summer fantasy, the Castle will feature new illuminating lights to complete the Belvedere (meaning “beautiful view” in Italian) spectacle. Now that the Conservatory has finished the onsite repairs, venture through the park to this

Do you ever wonder what your life might be life in a hundred years? Now may be your chance! Last month, the immersive exhibit Ocean Cube—which depicts a futuristic world of human beings who live under the sea—debuted at 60 Grand Street in Soho. The exhibit reflects human life in the year 2119 through five, bioluminescent rooms. Start in the Coral Tunnel with a touchable 3D coral reef and end in the Recycle Bank, a colorful but polluted room full of bottles. Visitors are meant to be reminded of the ocean’s beauty as well as the environmental problems our planet faces. In the third room, named the Jellyfish Station, artists have increased the scale of the jellyfish sculptures, which designers imagine would be used as vehicles in undersea life, so that the viewers’ perceptions are greatly enhanced. Randy Fernando, one of the designers, states, “Trying to replicate nature in fabrication is a difficult task. We had to combine the idea of precise manufacturing techniques and organic aesthetics. The jellyfish are meant to make you seem as if you are floating with them. They are light, delicate, and play with both color and texture. You end up immersing yourself into a tranquil and meditative state in a field of these delicate creatures and cool color tones.” Take a trip to the deep ocean in a whirlwind time traveling adventure to see the soggy future that may be in store for the human race in a century.  Image: Courtesy Ocean Cube NYC   Image: Courtesy Ocean Cube NYC   Image:

As the iconic New York City sitcom Seinfeld approaches its 30th anniversary, you may not have watched one of its giggle-inducing episodes in a while— not that there’s anything wrong with that. But this fall, you’ll have the chance to relive the hit comedy, with all its greatest moments and characters, thanks to the latest Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Superfly collaboration. Dubbed The Seinfeld Experience, this interactive exhibit will provide a fully immersive behind-the-scenes look at “the greatest television show of all time” (according to TV Guide in 2009) through set re-creations, costumes, memorabilia, props and (best of all) never before seen content. There will also be a retail store which features limited-edition and exclusive merchandise unique to the show and The Seinfeld Experience.  “Because I am Seinfeld, for a long time I was the only person to actually have the Seinfeld experience," said Jerry Seinfeld in a statement. "Now, these crazy Superfly people are going to make it so lots of people can interact with our silly 90’s TV show,” said Jerry Seinfeld. “All I can say is, in the general context of the world we live in, this now seems completely normal.” Located in the Gramercy neighborhood in Manhattan, the ticketed experience will open in the fall and be open seven days of the week—so you can revel in Seinfeld’s carefree comedy anytime you desire. The tickets will go on sale in the coming months and will be available for purchase until February 2020.