There is so much to do in Long Island. Truly. I’ve only lived here for 5 years, but I’ve grown to love all that this location offers. From amazing nightlife, to water parks, to pumpkin picking and animal sanctuaries… there’s nothing you can’t find in my neck of the woods.

Immediately, people think of the Hamptons when they think of Long Island (or Amy Fisher depending on how old you are). And if you haven’t had a chance to visit the Hamptons, you need to put it on your list of MUST SEE PLACES. I’m in my mid-30s, so clubbing until 2AM or hitting up the Boardy Barn isn’t really on my radar anymore. That time for me has passed. Nowadays when I head out east, my attention is on finding a great beach like Indian Wells, finding a Children’s Museum that my kids will fall in love with,  or finding the best place to pumpkin pick for the fall.

Are you more of a Montauk kinda girl? Then you have to make sure you visit the Lighthouse! Check out my video of when my family visited a few years back.

If you don’t want to drive that far out – there’s plenty to do closer to home. During the summer, you can check out Splish Splash Water Park. We go once a year and it’s exactly what your family will need during the warmer months. Want to shop instead? We have TWO amazing outlet centers – one in Riverhead and one in Deer Park.

Food – endless options and I mean it! Within 2 miles of my house, I can name two dozen restaurants that will rock your world. In just a few weeks, the Shake Shack is opening up. I’m practically standing outside watching the construction – that’s how excited I am. But in the meantime, why not enjoy restaurants like: Bobby Flay’s Burger Palace,  The Chef’s Corner, Seasons 52,  Flip Pizza, Mumon,  and more!

Looking for more tips? Check out the Residence Inn Thrival Guide! With it you can find tips to local things like that small hole in the wall restaurant or a dry cleaners.

Man! There’s a lot of information in this post. LOL. I have two more things to share!! Number 1 — a contest!! We all love contests, right? Enter below for your chance to win a grand prize of 4-night stay at a Residence Inn.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Now onto Number 2 – tomorrow’s Twitter party!! So exciting!

When: Tomorrow at 9PM EST
Who: @TravelingMoms @KimOrlando @CindyRichards @DebMomOf3 @chaotic_barb @verasweeney @maryheston @bloggymoms @Takingthekids @familytravel4um @ramblingstump @dipaolamomma @according2kelly @eightymphmom
Hashtag: #TMOM #RIThrival
PRIZES: We’ll be giving away three 2-night stays at a Residence Inn property of your choice.During your visit, you’ll stay in a one-bedroom spacious suite and enjoy Residence Inn’s complimentary daily breakfast. Trip must be completed within one year, by September 30, 2013. Subject to availability and blackout dates apply. Transportation, gratuities, incidentals and all other expenses not included.

To be eligible, you must:
1. RSVP by leaving your Twitter handle here.