Amuse Yourself on Long Island This Summer

Wondering what fun things you can do with the kids outside of summer camp? Well, check out these amusement parks that are right here on Long Island.

Splish Splash
Splish Splash may be close to the quiet East End, but the park is nothing short of extreme. Featured on the Travel Channel’s Xtreme Waterparks, Splish Splash has dozens of thrilling water rides to help you keep cool in the summer heat. There’s Mutiny Bay, an interactive ride that takes you and your crew on a voyage battling against pirates and sea creatures. If you’re brave enough, try the Barrier Reef Body Slide, an infamous giant twister that weaves through the treetops. Other favorites rides include Alien Invasion and the Abyss. When you’re hungry, there’s plenty to choose from along the boardwalk or at one of the restaurants and snack bars. 2549 Splish Splash Drive, Calverton. 631-727-3600 splishsplash.com

Long Island Game Farm
For a day of cuddly fun, visit the Long Island Game Farm in Manorville. Feed and pet animals, learn about wildlife through animal shows with Ranger Eric, and be amazed by talented animals in David Rosaire’s Dog Show. Meet zebras, lemurs, and kangaroos, feed Clifford the giraffe, take pictures with parrots, or ride the children’s rides. There’s always something new to discover. 489 Chapman Boulevard, Manorville. 631-878-6644 longislandgamefarm.com

Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center
There’s lots to do and plenty to see at the Long Island Aquarium & Exhibition Center in Riverhead. With a stunning array of indoor and outdoor exhibits—including a jellyfish tank, a giant Pacific octopus, a shipwreck artificial reef and an interactive salt marsh—there’s something for every kind of curious mind. Also catch (no pun intended) the sea lions, sharks, penguins and otters! For the landlubbers, there are marmoset, butterfly and bird exhibits as well. 431 East Main Street, Riverhead. 631-208-9200 longislandaquarium.com

Adventureland
Since 1962, Adventureland has been a go-to amusement park with midway games, a haunted house, Ferris wheel, carousel and bumper cars and exciting thrill rides, plus rides for the kiddies. Adventureland also has water rides like Adventure Falls, Crocodile Run and Little Dipper. If you need a break from the heat, head to the arcade or rest in the shade under the umbrellas at the Midway Market. 2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale. 631-694-6868 adventureland.us

Boomers
Featuring attractions perfect for the whole family, Boomers is a great place to relax and have fun. Their new, faster go-karts are sure to excite—just make certain to bring close-toed shoes. The miniature golf course is filled with windmills, water features, and lush greens. Or try out the bumper boats (each boat has its own water cannon) or the batting cages if you’re up for some competition. A selection of children’s rides (spinning tea cups, carousel and a family roller coaster, among others) and an arcade round out the offerings. 655 Long Island Avenue, Medford. 631-475-1771 boomerslongisland.com

Country Fair Entertainment & Event Park
Do you love laser tag? At Country Fair Entertainment & Event Park you can play laser tag outside and in the sun! The laser tag field has bunkers, barrels and “homes” for you to hide behind. But wait, there’s more: go-karts, two unique 18-hole mini golf courses, a driving range, an arcade and batting cages are just some of the other exciting activities offered. 3351 New York 112, Medford. 631-732-0579 countryfairpark.com

Bayville Adventure Park
Pirates, ghosts and alien abductions—these are just a few of the elements woven into the history of Bayville Adventure Park. With indoor rock climbing, a Jungle Tree Top Adventure, the Lost Temple Forgotten Maze and International Crab Races, you’ll find amusements here you won’t see anywhere else. Also featuring a variety of dining options, including Breakers Sports Bar and Grill, Shipwreck Tavern and Beaches & Cream Ice Cream & Soda Shoppe, you’ll be sure to end the day completely satisfied. 8 Bayville Avenue, Bayville. 516- 624-7433 bayvilleadventurepark.com