Cait Sumner

Latest posts by Cait Sumner

Ultimate Archery Review: Family-Friendly Archery Dodgeball in NJ

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 08/25/2023 - 9:44am

Ultimate Archery is a great experience for families looking to have some fun together!

If you've never heard of Ultimate Archery, you're in for a treat. Featuring soft, marshmallowy tipped arrows and inflatable hideouts, this intensely fun game is the perfect opportunity for some unique, full family bonding. The kids will blow off some energy, you'll get a great workout in, and everyone will sleep in the next day! Ultimate Archery is located in Maple Shade, NJ and is ideal for kids ages 7 and up, though my 6 year old was able to play too.

Looking for more extreme fun? Check out our list of Extreme Sports and Thrilling Activities for Philly Kids or visit our Play Gyms and Sports Center Guide.

New Sesame Place Philadelphia Store Won't Require Park Admission- Coming this Fall

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Tue, 08/15/2023 - 12:14pm

An all new Sesame Street Store is coming to Sesame Place in Langhorne and the good news is you don't need a ticket to the amusement park to check it out! The brand new store will be opening this Fall and will allow guests to shop without paying the admission fee.

Want to know more about Sesame Place? Check out our guide to Visiting Sesame Place with Preschoolers. Don't stop there, we've got plent of amusement park fun in our Theme & Water Parks Guide.

The Barbie Movie: Should You Bring Your Kids?

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 08/11/2023 - 4:20am

Barbie is the hit of the summer, but is this toy movie for kids? Photo courtesy of Warner Bros Pictures

The Barbie Movie is taking the world by storm, but the question on the mind of many parents remains-- can I take my kids to see it? The iconic toy is loved by kids and adults alike, but whether or not your kids will actually enjoy the movie sort of depends on a couple of things. So, should you take your kids, or should you call the babysitter?

We talked to a bunch of parents of kids of various ages to get their take on the hottest movie of summer! Read on to see what they're saying.

And if you're looking for a great movie for family viewing at home, check out our Guide to the Best Movies and TV Shows for Kids and the Whole Family.

Best Classes for Preschoolers and Toddlers in Philadelphia

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 08/04/2023 - 10:14am

iNMovement provides gymnastics and movement education for Philadelphians of all ages and ability levels. Photo courtesy of iNMovement

The best way to keep your sanity with a preschooler? Sign them up for some classes! Parenting a toddler is hard work, and keeping them entertained is even harder. Especially if you're a stay at home parent, having a plan every week that guarantees some time out of the house is sometimes all you need to feel human again. Whether you want to get some blood flowing with a movement class or satisy the earbuds with a fun music class, there are plenty of enriching options around the Philadelphia area for your little one.

Looking for more fun things to do with your preschooler? Check out our Preschool Guide for lots of great activities geared towards toddlers. Don't miss our Free Indoor Play Spaces post, which features tons of fun places to play all for free!

Best River Rafting Trips for Kids of All Ages

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Sat, 07/29/2023 - 12:17pm

Hop in the water for a swim during a relaxing rafting journey with the Wilderness Voyageurs.

River rafting is one of America's most adventurous pastimes and a great way to stay cool in the summer months. Whether you're looking for lazy-river vibes with your littlest adventurers or high-speed rapids for the thrill seekers in your life, there's a river rafting trip for you.

There are a few things to consider when choosing a rafting trip for your family—the length of the trip, the intensity of the rapids, and the participants' paddling abilities. Only you know your family and how your kids will respond to the water, so keep those things in mind when you choose your river adventure.

Here are 12 of the best river rafting trips in the US for families, from California and Colorado river rafting out west to the popular Ocoee River Rafting in Tennessee. Find even more outdoorsy vacation ideas in our Family Travel Guide, including gorgeous United States National Parks and the best places to go camping in the US.

Rose Tree Park Playground is Now Open in Media, and It's Epic!

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 07/21/2023 - 8:13am

The long-awaited Rose Tree Park Playground is now open in Media, PA. The playground is sustainably made, designed for all ages and abilities, and officially ready to be played on! Construction for the playground began in April, but the plans to build a playground at this park have been in the works for a few years.

Check out our Parks & Playground Guide to find even more playground fun in your area.

Best Philadelphia Parks for Birthday Parties

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 07/07/2023 - 8:00am

When the weather is beautiful, there's nothing better than an outdoor event. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, graduation, or another special occasion, there are plenty of beautiful nearby parks that are perfect for hosting celebrations. Our local parks and playgrounds are some of the simplest places to host a summer birthday bash, so if you're looking for an easy way to gather the family to celebrate, try one of these parks!

For more park fun, check out our Parks and Playground Guide, or head over to our Pools and Spray Parks Guide to beat the heat this summer.

Philadelphia Beer Gardens that are Family-Friendly

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Sun, 06/11/2023 - 9:02am

Spruce Street Harbor Park has two water features and tons of games to keep kids busy after a meal. Photo courtesy of Spruce Street Harbor Park

Philadelphia beer gardens are popping up just about everywhere. With delicious brews and cocktails alongside yard games and kid-friendly spaces, these spots are a perfect match for families looking to get out without paying for a babysitter. There are lots of great family-friendly (and pet-friendly!) beer gardens in and around the city that are perfect for a relaxing weekend.

If you're heading to a Fishtown beer garden, check out our recommendations for Things to Do in Fishtown with Kids. Looking for more ways to get outside? Check out the Best Playgrounds in Philadelphia for All Day Play or take a look at our Outdoor Activity Guide.