Looking for fun, affordable ways to keep your kids entertained during summer break without leaving Long Island? Whether you’re in Nassau or Suffolk County, you’re in luck—Long Island is packed with exciting family-friendly activities perfect for kids of all ages. From outdoor adventures under the sun to cool indoor escapes on rainy or extra-hot days, you’ll find something to make every summer day count.
Why Stay Local This Summer?
Spending your summer on Long Island means you don’t have to travel far to enjoy unforgettable experiences. With so many local attractions, you can avoid long road trips and pricey vacations while still giving your family memorable days packed with fun. Plus, you’ll be supporting local businesses that make our communities stronger.
Outdoor Activities for Families on Long Island
When the sun is shining, there’s no better time to explore the great outdoors. Long Island offers an incredible range of outdoor activities for families looking to stay active and enjoy nature:
- Amusement & Adventure Parks: Enjoy competitive fun with go-karts, ziplining, ropes courses, rides and carnival games throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties.
- Beaches & Boardwalks: Jones Beach, Robert Moses, and Sunken Meadow are ideal for a classic beach day—think sandcastles, surf, and seaside snacks.
- Outdoor Farms & Petting Zoos: Many offer hayrides, animal encounters, and fresh produce. Some offer picnic areas too!
- Parks & Nature Trails: Explore kid-friendly trails at Caleb Smith State Park, Bethpage State Park, or the Quogue Wildlife Refuge.
Indoor Fun for Hot or Rainy Days in Nassau & Suffolk Counties
Long Island is just as entertaining indoors. Whether you need a break from the heat or a rainy-day option, check out these indoor attractions:
- Bowling, Escape Rooms, Mini Golf & Arcades: Enjoy hours of screen-free family fun.
- Indoor Play Centers & Trampoline Parks: Great for high-energy indoor excitement.
- Libraries & Community Events: Many local libraries offer free story hours, summer reading challenges, crafts, and other kid-friendly programs.
- Museums & Aquariums: Many offer educational activities, hands-on fun, shows and performances perfect for a family day out.
Featured Local Businesses for Summer Fun – Sponsored Content:
This section includes trusted favorites and hidden gems perfect for family bonding—whether you’re planning a full day out or just looking for a fun hour or two. Be sure to check back as we update this list regularly!
Adventureland – Farmingdale – www.adventureland.us
Adventureland, Long Island’s family favorite amusement park since 1962, is now open daily for summer! This clean, family owned and operated amusement park features over 30 rides and attractions, a food court, indoor restaurant, games, an indoor arcade and more! Three New Rides now open for 2026, Wave Twister, The Ram and New Carousel plus drone shows starting this year!
Bounce! Family Entertainment Center – Syosset – www.bouncesyosset.com
Bounce! In Syosset is an indoor family entertainment center offering awesome birthday party packages and open play sessions on Long Island. Party goers and Open Play participants will enjoy Trampolines, Adventure Zone, Soft Play Arena, Toddler Tow, Junior Bounce ZOne, Ninja/Net Course, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Arcade, & More!
Cradle of Aviation Museum – Garden City – www.cradleofaviation.org
Big summer adventures start at the Cradle of Aviation Museum. Explore more than 75 aircraft and spacecraft, hands-on exhibits, and planetarium shows in Long Island’s only Giant Screen Dome Theater. Discover the history of flight, space exploration, and innovation while enjoying family-friendly experiences, special events, and activities throughout the summer.
Dave & Buster’s – Islandia – www.daveandbusters.com
Dave & Buster’s Islandia offers an action-packed midway with hundreds of games and delicious food! New Game Suites, darts or shuffleboard, or The Arena- offering an immersive gaming experience! Take flight in our popular Human Crane! Summer Season Pass unlocks a whole summer of Unlimited Game Play, up to 25% off food/non-alcoholic beverages. Private rooms or shared spaces are available.
Dave & Buster’s – Westbury – www.daveandbusters.com
Dave and Busters offers an action-packed midway with hundreds of games for all ages! Bowling, billiards and delicious food too! Unlock a whole summer of Unlimited Game Play, up to 25% off food and non-alcoholic beverages, and more – all starting at just $69.99. Private rooms or shared spaces available for celebrations of all sizes. Specializing in bar and bat mitzvahs.
Epic Escape Room LI – West Hempstead – www.epicescaperoomsli.com
Epic Escape Rooms Long Island, prides themselves in providing award winning Escape Room Challenges. Epic Escape Rooms Long Island’s games create a fun and immersive atmosphere, where critical thinking, teamwork, and communication come together for an unforgettable adventure. Fun for all ages. Party packages also available. Escape into some fun this summer!
Laser Bounce Family Fun Center – Levittown – www.laserbounce.net
Attractions for all ages! Laser tag, large new arcade, mini bowling, VR rides and a large bounce trampoline park. Specials all summer long. Open 11:00am-9:00pm.
Levittown Lanes – Levittown – www.levittownbowling.com
Levittown Lanes has been a family owned Traditional Bowling Center business for 70 years. Hosting good, clean, bowling leagues and entertainment for Ages 5 to 95. Birthday parties for all ages & School OFF Specials during the year. Summer Bowling Bonanza Pass for a FREE game and shoe rental every day for summer vacation, Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center – Riverhead – www.longislandaquarium.com
The Long Island Aquarium in Riverhead, NY, is packed with exciting exhibits, from sharks and penguins to touch tanks and sea lion shows. Kids can enjoy interactive experiences, seasonal events, and even summer camp programs. It’s a fun, educational spot perfect for a family day trip or summer adventure.
Monster Mini Golf – Deer Park – www.monsterminigolf.com
Monster Mini Golf – Garden City – www.monsterminigolf.com
Upon entering Monster Mini Golf, you will be greeted by a monster-theme, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course! Their Deer Park and Garden City locations offer a host of family-oriented fun, miniature golf, thrilling arcade and redemption games, plus additional attractions. Monster Mini Golf is indoors, take a break from the heat this summer and visit them! Open every day 12pm-10 pm.
Q-ZAR – Carle Place – www.qzarny.com
One of Long Islands premier 4000 sq ft multi-level laser tag arena featuring Lasertron laser tag. Also offering Axe throwing at Q-axe, VR rides, and a great new arcade.
Splish Splash Water Park – Calverton – www.splishsplash.com
Plunge into family fun at New York’s Largest Water Park®, Splish Splash. Drop from the top of Alien Invasion, hang ten at one of the two wave pools and enjoy more than 30 attractions. This shady oasis, hidden among the trees on Long Island, is a summer tradition for New Yorkers and anyone looking to beat the heat.
Urban Air Adventure Park – Lake Grove – www.urbanairlakegrove.com
Make this summer unforgettable at Urban Air Lake Grove. Soar on the Sky Rider, battle friends in the new Laser Tag arena, race Mini Go-Karts, and explore more than 50,000 square feet of indoor attractions. Whether it’s hot outside or rain is in the forecast, Urban Air is the perfect place for families to stay cool, stay active, and have fun.
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Tips for a Smooth Summer Break for Long Island Families
- Call Ahead: Always check websites or call ahead for updated hours, admission requirements, and age restrictions.
- Stay Safe: Pack sunscreen, water, and first-aid essentials for outdoor trips. For indoor venues, be aware of any capacity limits or health guidelines.
- Plan a Mix: Alternate between high-energy activities and more relaxed outings to keep everyone balanced and happy.
Make the Most of Your Summer—Locally
From toddlers to teens, Long Island offers something for everyone this summer. With so many options nearby, it’s easy to fill your calendar with fun, educational, and enriching activities—without the hassle or expense of leaving town.
So whether you’re planning a quick weekday adventure or a weekend outing with the whole family, use this guide to discover the best of Long Island. Here’s to a safe, joyful, and unforgettable summer break!
Are you still searching for a Summer Camp for your child, planning a Party soon or trying to find a local resource for your family? Check out our full directory of Long Island Providers for all your family’s needs.
