ELMWOOD PARK ZOO

Another surprising alternative to the Philadelphia Zoo is the Elmwood Park Zoo in Norristown. Even though this zoo is smaller in size it doesn't lack in abundance of animals. I saw Timberwolfs and live Bison for the first time in my life when the kids and I visited. Never super packed with traffic, you have all the time in the world to get up close and personal with the exotic animals and activities. Do yourself a favor and support this local zoo, it's precious animals and community the next time your in the area:)

http://www.elmwoodparkzoo.org/

FRANKLIN SQUARE PARK

If your looking to take the kids into the city and enjoy the sights and sounds you can't miss out on this historic park made for kids. Franklin Square Park has everything from an amazing playground to a old fashioned carousel. The minature golf course is great for adults as well and my favorite restauranter Stephen Starr has a burger stand there called "Square Burger" (The Tastykake Krempit Milkshake is to die for!) The beautiful fountain and shade from the trees will keep you cool on those hot dog days so get outside and head down to Franklin Square Park in the heart of Philadelphia:)

http://historicphiladelphia.org/franklin-square/what-to-see/

POTTERY BARN KIDS

When we go to the King of Prussia Mall the first place my kids want to go is Pottery Barn Kids! They love to play and test out the different children room set-ups and unique toys only carried by the store. Also if you join their FREE Book Club Passport Program you'll get monthly invites to the FREE promo programs the store host each month like tea parties and read-a-longs!

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/

KID TO KID

What is a parent to do with all those forgotten toys and outgrown kid clothes? Why not make a little money and sell them at "Kid to Kid"! Whether your looking to buy used clothes/toys in great condition or make a little money by selling your items this place has you covered. My kids grew out of their snow boots so instead of letting them collect dust I took them to "Kid to Kid" and they bought them from me! So get all the toys and clothes (in good condition) you are looking to get rid of and take them down to "Kid to Kid", who knows you might walk away a little heavier in the wallet/purse:)

http://www.kidtokid.com/

EXPIRED SUNSCREEN!!!!!

Something I learned just last year (and I know I'm not the only daddy out there:) is that your sunscreen expires! Most sunscreens expire one year after purchase, some sooner! So all those bottles in your cabinet or car that you used last summer are probably past their expiration date and should be checked. You want your kids protected to the fullest especially since this summer is gonna be a scorcher! So check those dates on your suncreens and dont forget to apply, apply and reapply:)

THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE

Another museum I love to take the kids once a month is The Franklin Institute! Dedicated to good old Ben Franklin, this museum is full of hidden treasures for the young and young at heart:) We love to attend the Target Community Nights once a month when admission is FREE as well as the special exhibits like the IMAX theater, 3D shows & Planetarium! See you there:)

http://www2.fi.edu/visitor-guide/events/community-events.php

LINVILLA ORCHARDS

If your looking for a place the kids can see some animals, play on a jungle gym, take a hey-ride, go fishing and pick your own fruit the ONLY place that has it all is Linvilla Orchards in Media, PA. My parents used to take me here when I was a toddler and I continue the tradition with my kids. Summer is great for fishing, swimming and seasonal fruit picking. But the best time to go to Linvilla is during the fall season with the pumpkin patch, Haunted hey-rides, hot apple cider, marshmallows by bon-fire, apple orchard picking & candy apples are happening! Treat yourself and your family, visit Linvilla Orchards

http://www.linvilla.com/