What to do?

You may have heard the term “heyday” before.

“In your heyday” refers to the period when someone or something was at its peak of success, popularity or influence.

Across America, many small and mid-sized towns are struggling to provide meaningful activities for kids and families.

Once-thriving main streets that boasted bowling alleys, arcades, skating rinks and movie theaters have grown quiet. As these gathering places disappear, so do the opportunities for families to bond and for young people to engage with their communities.

In my teenage years, which was in the 90s, we had some of these things. We normally hung out at the bowling alley.

The skating rink was huge here back in the day as was other places. I’m not sure when the State Theatre downtown went out but I can’t remember taking a trip there seeing as how I grew up in Douglassville and an outing for me was tagging along with my mom to Walmart.

My wife lived in town and she remembers going.

Then there was Imagination which was our Blockbuster Video. I remember Food King having a section to rent movies out of.

Those were fun times. I’m sure before my time there were so many other things to do here as well.

Years ago, it wasn’t unusual for a Friday night to include a family trip to the local cinema or for teenagers to gather at the bowling alley. These places were more than just businesses — they were social anchors. Parents could relax while kids played, and neighbors got to know each other through casual conversation over pizza and popcorn.

Today, many of these venues are shuttered, replaced by big-box stores or left vacant entirely. The rise of online entertainment and changing retail habits have taken a toll, but the loss of these spaces has left a void. For families, particularly those without the means to travel long dis- tances, the lack of local recreation options limits both fun and growth opportunities.

Money does play a big role in how towns operate and individual ownership.

Public-private partnerships could play a vital role. Local governments working with nonprofits or small business owners could offer incentives to reopen or reimagine classic entertainment venues.

Even seasonal attractions like farmers markets with kids’ activities or summer movie nights in the park can go a long way in bringing families together.

Beyond just fun, these activities foster a sense of belonging and identity. Children who grow up with safe, engaging places to go are more likely to feel connected to their hometowns — and less likely to seek risky alternatives. Parents benefit from stress relief and community support.

The whole town benefits from stronger social ties and economic activity.

Reinvesting in family-friendly infrastructure is more than nostalgia — it’s a practical way to build resilient, thriving communities. If towns want to retain young families and nurture the next generation, they need to offer more than just homes and schools. They need places where families can play, connect and grow — together.