Traveling with the kids

The 162nd Great New York State Fair, in Syracuse

While Long Island's rural roots continue to disappear before our very eyes, the surprising fact of the matter is that agriculture continues to be the Empire State's leading industry. Yet, it's just one of the many things that have come to be celebrated at the annual state fair.

FAMILY TRAVEL

Surviving a road trip - with kids

For once, the kids agree.

For family vacations, visit Maryland's Eastern Shore

If you're longing for a vacation by the water - but not one dedicated to baking on a beach - Maryland's Eastern Shore could be just the ticket.

10 attractions the kids will love in London

Bringing kids to London? You can take them to the typical tourist attractions - if you can stand the crowds and the expense. But you can also sample some sites that Londoners prefer, which can provide their own quiet, satisfying and more affordable delights.

Saratoga Springs: A very full day at the races

In the summer of 1863, ex-prizefighter and future Congressman John Morrissey concluded that the well-heeled patrons at the trendy upstate resort town of Saratoga Springs could benefit - and he could profit - from having a little mental stimulation between mindless salt baths. And so was born the annual Saratoga Race Course meet of the New York Racing Association (NYRA), six weeks of creative and recreational horsing around in the relative cool and sophistication of the Spa City. While the town itself still caters heavily to the thoroughbred set, there is much to amuse, entertain, and educate horse enthusiasts of all stripes - and ages for that matter - as unlike many other tracks, the Grand Old Lady of Saratoga actually welcomes minors. So grab the kids and gallop north for what is destined to be a truly memorable day at the races.

FAMILY TRAVEL

For fun, LEGO to Stamford

WHERE

House swaps help make family vacations affordable

Hmmm. A cottage in the English countryside or a flat in Paris, a deluxe Caribbean villa or a house with a pool in Orlando, Fla., San Diego, Canada, Colorado or San Francisco. Take your pick for summer vacation. Price is no concern. It won't cost you a penny - really.

Ocean cruising is vacation heaven for kids

What's not to like - from a kid's perspective anyway.

Alone time for vacationing parents

Five years is too long between vacations. Just ask Amy and Matt Wilcher.

STILL YOUNG AT 51

Disneyland captures the young and old

It's sweltering and Disneyland is packed, but 8-year-old Katie Grace Dhority and her 6-year-old sister, Laurel, are too excited to care that it's at least 90 degrees in the shade and there are lines everywhere, even at the water fountains.

HAWAII: Kona is a haven for kids

The first time the Houskas vacationed at Kona Village on the Big Island of Hawaii, Judy Houska was pregnant with her first child. The next year, they celebrated Joe Houska's 40th birthday. Then it was Joe and Judy's 10th anniversary.

TAKING THE KIDS: Where babies are welcome

The Wisconsin innkeeper was not happy. He glared at my two adorable babies, who, fortunately, were too busy sucking their lollipops after the long drive to notice his distress.