If you're West of the Mississippi, school is probably already out for the summer. If you're in the Eastern half of the US, you've still got a few more weeks of class. But either way, it's the perfect time to think about creating a fantastic summer for your kids. We polled our own kids about what makes an ideal summer and the number one answer was: free time to play. And we said: right on.

One of best ways we've seen to inspire creative free play is having a portable or collapsible hideaway at your child's disposal.There's nothing quite like a cozy little private space to get their make-believe wheels turning. A tepee for a round of cowboys and Indians. A castle for the princess and her paparazzi. A little home for playing Mommy and Daddy and Baby.

Here's a round up of some of the best-looking options out there.

Hippie Tipi play tent by Vessel in bold stripes of bold colors. Machine washable. Darling in the garden or the playroom.

Home Sweet Play Home by Land of Nod in four shades of charming gingham--blue, green, pink and lavender. Hangs from the ceiling. Priced at less than $100. Sweet is right.

Lots of excellent fabric choices offered for the play tents at Lucy & Michael. Quality materials. A simple, solid, one-window design. Pretty enough for the living room.

Recycled Cardboard Structures by Paperpod. Available as a house or a rocket. Ready to be decorated or good-looking left as they are. Designed to be collapsed and stored at the end of play.

Irresistible enclosures perfect for a playroom or bedroom--Blossom Sky and Knights Tent. They hang from the ceiling and come with a padded floor mat. Your child will want to move in and never leave.

This six-foot Great Plains Tepee by Dexton feels so authentic. The neutral canvas will look good anywhere--or your rugged braves can paint it up with any permanent latex or oil-based paint. Their cowboy friends will be comfortable in this Rodeo Print Tent by Barn Dandy. Machine washable. The perfect spot for settling down after a long day's ride.