Summer on Long Island means more than just sand and sea.Kids can star in their own theater productions, learn how to ride a horse, and even hit up kids’ day at a local vineyard. Whether you’re visiting for just a day or a few weeks, here are 10 ideas for enjoying kid-friendly fun in the Hamptons and beyond.
Plan A Day At The Arboretum. Greenhouses, gardens and woodland paths abound at the Planting Fields Arboretum, a 400-acre historic estate in Oyster Bay that’s also home to a 65-room mansion-turnedmuseum. 1395 Planting Fields Road, Oyster Bay, 516-922-9200.
Take The Kids Vineyard Hopping. Think wineries are just for adults? Think again—the Island’s famed North Fork wine country has several family-friendly vineyards that cater to adults and children. We especially love Palmer Vineyards, which holds family events throughout the year. Aquebogue, Long Island, 631-722-9463.
Get Your Thrills In Bayville. Thrill seekers will love Bayville Adventure Park, which offers everything from miniature golf to bumper cars to rock climbing. Each park section also has its own theme, such as Blizzard Bay’s skating adventure and the Jungle Tree Top Adventure ropes course. When hunger hits, head over to the Shipwreck Tavern for a meal or Beaches & Cream for sundaes. 8 Bayville Avenue, Bayville, 516-624-743.
See What’s Going On At CMEE. There’s always lots to do at the Children’s Museum of the East End. Children can make noise in “The Musical Forest,” get creative in the “Drop-In Art Studio,” and scoop ice cream at the soda fountain. Throughout the summer, the museum hosts “Twirligig Tuesdays,” where families are invited to bring a picnic dinner and enjoy kid-friendly performances—this month’s lineup includes Princess Katie and Racer Steve (August 3), Brady Rymer and The Little Band That Could (August 10), Liz Joyce and Friends from Goat On A Boat (August 17) and The Silly Dilly Band (August 24). 367 Bridgehampton/Sag Harbor Turnpike, Bridgehampton, 631-537- 8250.
Hit Up A Seafood Shack. There’s plenty of great seafood stops on Long Island—we love Singleton’s Seafood Shack for its fresh crabs and ocean view. Shrimp and clams are also on the menu, and for landlubbers, chicken sandwiches and burgers are available. Submit a photo of your family having fun at the beach to their website and, if chosen, receive a $25 gift certificate to the restaurant. Bay Pavilion at Tobay Beach, 1 Ocean Parkway, Massapequa, 516-826-1610.
Learn About The History Of Flight. Cradle of Aviation, a museum devoted to Long Island’s contribution to air travel, is a place where children and adults can explore and even climb through 75 planes and spacecraft. Jets and skydivers are suspended from the museum’s atrium, and kids can experience the sensations of flight and space exploration at the museum’s IMAX theater. Charles Lindbergh Boulevard, Garden City, 516- 572-4111.
Go On A Pony Ride. Just outside of East Hampton in the village of Amagansett, Stony Hill Stables is a picturesque equestrian facility that offers horse and pony riding lessons for children as young as 4. For longer stays, children under 7 can attend the summer “Pony Camp,” a three-day-per-week program that teaches the basics of riding and horsemanship. Camp sessions run through the end of August. 268 Town Lane, Amagansett, 631-267-3202.
Stock Up On Children’s Books. Book Revue, a family-owned, independent bookstore in Huntington, features a kids section with delightful children’s books, not to mention colorful murals, fanciful sculptures, and a sturdy fire engine. Every Tuesday at 11 a.m. is “Toddler Time,” an opportunity for little ones to make crafts, listen to stories, sing and dance. 313 New York Avenue, Huntington, 631-271-1442.
Catch A Show In Westhampton Beach. A haven for theater, music, dance and film, the Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center offers several youth and family-themed events during summer. On tap for August is “Pinkalicious The Musical” (August 22). There are also dance classes and studio art sessions available. 76 Main Street, Westhampton Beach, 631-288-1500.
Photo: Princess Katie and Racer Steve will perform at CMEE on August 3 as part of the museum’s “Twirligig Tuesdays” performance series.
