James Smith

Latest posts by James

Weekend Fun for LI Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 24-26

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/21/2015 - 6:00pm

It’s late July on the East End of Long Island and the natural world is on full display. North Fork or South, families eager to experience nature’s pageantry will find no shortage of opportunities. From beach walks to nature hikes and bike rides, it’s all about the environment this week as the East End readies itself for the last complete month of summer.

But rest assured, those not inclined to follow nature’s instincts will find plenty to do this weekend as well. On the North Fork, there are theater productions and music fairs; on the South Fork, carnivals, sports and music. And for even more happening in the area, check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 17-19

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/14/2015 - 6:00pm

From nature talks and fun runs to festivals and puppet shows, there is no shortage of family fun on the East End of Long Island. Two of our favorites happening this weekend include the Riverhead Fire Department commemorating the 80th anniversary of its drill team with a two-day celebration, and the sweet corn festival at Harbes Family Farm.

Of course, you can find even more activities on our jam-packed events calendar. And for other ideas on what to do in the area, check out our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, July 10-12

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 07/07/2015 - 6:00pm

Summer gains momentum on the East End of Long Island in the weeks following July 4. Barbecues and beach parties are in full swing and nature lovers find an abundance of trails ripe for the hiking.

This weekend parents on the North Fork can entertain their children with nature games and tractor pulls, while those on the South Fork can enjoy boat building, baseball, historical celebrations and a night of marine discovery that just happens to coincide with the end of television’s “Shark Week.” And for more fun in the area, don’t forget our Hamptons and North Fork Family Guide.

Public Pools for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 07/06/2015 - 7:00am

North Fork or South, along the ocean, Sound or bay, the East End is a nirvana to those who love the beach. But there are days when families prefer something other than sand under their feet (or rip currents around their ankles). Luckily, there are several well-maintained public pools to satisfy our urge to swim when we’ve had our fill of salt water.

The public pools below are ideal for families, low in cost and easy to access. All are staffed by certified lifeguards. Some may close for lessons or competitions; check their websites or call for the latest schedule and pricing information. Prices are as of July 2015.

And for the best in family entertainment throughout the East End, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

July 4th Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 06/30/2015 - 12:30pm

It’s the Fourth of July on the East End of Long Island--the biggest weekend of the summer. What better time to unleash your child’s independent spirit? From the North Fork to the South, activities galore celebrate our nation’s heritage. Where else can you take in a parade in the morning, t all ships in the afternoon and--assuming your kids have enough staying power--a carnival and fireworks under the stars?

Just in case you want to break away from Fourth of July fervor, there are plenty of other activities, as well indoor events just in case it rains on our holiday parades.

Be sure to check out our complete roundup of Long Island’s fireworks shows. And when you’re finished, browse our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

Kid-Friendly Coffee Houses in the Hamptons & North Fork

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 06/29/2015 - 5:56am

The East End of Long Island has no shortage of coffee houses, where local artisanal flavors blend with Manhattan sensibilities to create some of the best caffeine creations. But where to go if you’re absolutely longing for a caramel macchiato (and don't want to drink it on the run), but are all wrapped up in mommy or daddy duties?

Along with kid-friendly eateries in the Hamptons and North Fork, there are also a handful of family-friendly coffee shops on the East End that will let you indulge your craving in an atmosphere sure to delight your little ones, and we've rounded up a few of our favorites. For more family fun in the area, be sure to check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

Weekend Fun for Kids in the Hamptons & North Fork, June 26-28

Submitted by James Smith on Tue, 06/23/2015 - 10:00pm

Memorial Day may have marked the unofficial start of summer, but East Enders know the season doesn’t really begin until the end of the school year, which is this week! As students start their break on the North and South Forks, abundant summertime activities for kids take over. This weekend alone, you can treat your family to a car show, nature walks and a magic spectacle.

And for more fun in the area, check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.

Super Cheap Things to Do in the Hamptons & North Fork with Kids

Submitted by James Smith on Mon, 06/22/2015 - 9:52am

When you think about the East End of Long Island, the first word that comes to mind usually isn't "cheap." So how can parents amuse their kids in the Hamptons and North Fork without inflicting too much pain on their wallets? Believe it or not, there are plenty of creative ways to stretch a dollar in this region. Activities like ferry rides, nature junkets and railroad excursions offer maximum entertainment value at limited expense.

Here are some innovative ideas for super-low-cost family outings on the East End. And for more things to do in the area, check out our Hamptons & North Fork Family Guide.