Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids
1. American Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, dazzling gems, a life-size blue whale, and space shows at the Hayden Planetarium make this museum a can’t-miss for curious kids. Discovery-focused spaces and rotating special exhibits keep repeat visits fresh.
✓ Why Go:
It sparks big wonder with hands-on science and world-class collections that engage toddlers through teens, all in a stroller-friendly setting with room to roam.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings and late afternoons; winter and shoulder seasons are quieter. Reserve timed-entry on peak weekends and holidays.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter via the 81st Street/Rose Center side to bypass longer lines and head straight to the dinosaur halls before crowds build.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the wow-factor exhibits and friendly staff; it can be crowded, but most say it’s absolutely worth the time.
2. Central Park Zoo
A compact, manageable zoo with penguins, sea lions, and the beloved Tisch Children’s Zoo for petting and climbing—perfect for a short, animal-filled outing.
✓ Why Go:
It’s easy to pair with a Central Park playground or carousel, giving younger kids a full day of outdoor fun without long walks between exhibits.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings, especially on weekdays and during spring/fall. Aim for posted feeding times to see animals at their most active.
✓ Insider Tip:
After the zoo, stroll to Heckscher Playground or the nearby Central Park Carousel for bonus kid joy with minimal extra walking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised as clean, cute, and convenient—great for under-8s. Some note it’s small, but location and ease win the day.
3. Bronx Zoo
One of the largest city zoos in the world, with highlights like Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, the seasonal Wild Asia Monorail, and a hands-on Children’s Zoo.
✓ Why Go:
A full-day adventure where kids learn about conservation while exploring expansive, naturalistic habitats and interactive exhibits.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekdays in spring and fall; arrive early for shorter lines and better chances to see animals active in cooler hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Consider add-ons like the monorail and 4D theater on peak days; bring snacks and plan breaks—distances between exhibits can be long.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the scale and variety; expect tired feet but big smiles and memorable animal encounters.
4. Brooklyn Bridge Park
A waterfront playground-of-playgrounds with skyline views, Pier 6’s Water Lab and Slide Mountain, Pier 2’s court and roller rink, and lawns for picnics.
✓ Why Go:
Combines epic views with top-tier play spaces and open space for scooters, making it a hit for kids of all ages.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall for water play; weekday mornings for fewer crowds; sunset for gorgeous photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a change of clothes for splash zones and ride the NYC Ferry or grab pizza nearby to turn it into an easy, full outing.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a dream park day—innovative playgrounds, clean facilities, and tons to do. Weekends can get busy.
5. New York Hall of Science
Hands-on STEM heaven with tinkering stations, the seasonal outdoor Science Playground, and Rocket Park mini golf for budding builders and experimenters.
✓ Why Go:
Kids learn by doing—designing, testing, and iterating—while parents appreciate the practical science made fun.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
School-day mornings and late afternoons; rainy days are popular but manageable with timed tickets.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring water-friendly shoes and a spare shirt if the Science Playground is open; check the day’s demo schedule on arrival.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for interactive exhibits that keep kids engaged for hours; great value for families who love to tinker.
6. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Explore the historic aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, climb aboard the Growler submarine, and see the Space Shuttle Enterprise under one waterfront roof.
✓ Why Go:
It blends STEM and history with hands-on moments—jets, helicopters, and immersive exhibits thrill both kids and parents.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings year-round; cooler months are quieter. Arrive early for the submarine and shuttle pavilion.
✓ Insider Tip:
Strollers are limited on some decks; wear closed-toe shoes and check height/age rules before queuing for the submarine.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Described as awe-inspiring and well run, with knowledgeable staff. Can be breezy on deck—bring layers.
7. Brooklyn Children's Museum
The world’s first children’s museum features World Brooklyn’s pretend-play shops, Totally Tots’ water and sensory zones, and rotating cultural exhibits.
✓ Why Go:
Designed for kids from toddlers to early elementary, it’s a safe, creative space to play, learn, and burn energy indoors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings; reserve timed-entry on weekends and school breaks to avoid waits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack socks and water-friendly shoes for splash areas; check the calendar for pay-what-you-wish sessions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the staff, cleanliness, and imaginative play; ideal for younger kids and easy to reach by subway or bus.
8. Little Island
A whimsical park floating above the Hudson with meandering paths, lawns for cartwheels, and an amphitheater that hosts family-friendly performances.
✓ Why Go:
Short, stroller-friendly strolls, views, and mini adventures make it a breezy add-on to a West Side day.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring through fall; mornings for mellow vibes, golden hour for photos. Peak summer evenings may require timed entry.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a picnic and sunscreen; combine with a High Line walk or nearby playgrounds for an easy half day.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Kids and parents call it magical and bite-size—beautiful landscaping and views without a huge time commitment.
9. Staten Island Ferry
A free round-trip boat ride with front-row views of the Statue of Liberty, New York Harbor, and the Lower Manhattan skyline.
✓ Why Go:
Zero-cost thrills for transportation-loving kids, plus iconic photos without booking a tour.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday for calmer commuter crowds; sunset for spectacular light. Avoid weekday rush hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Board early and sit starboard when departing Manhattan for the best Statue views; hop off and reboard the next ferry back.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Widely praised as easy, scenic, and budget-friendly; can be crowded, but frequent departures keep waits short.
10. Luna Park Coney Island
Classic seaside amusements with kiddie rides, family coasters, and boardwalk snacks steps from the beach; a summer rite of passage.
✓ Why Go:
Combines rides, sand, and sea breezes—older kids chase thrills while little ones enjoy gentle attractions.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring to early fall on fair-weather days; arrive at opening on weekends for shorter lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Buy ride wristbands online to save time; pair with the New York Aquarium next door for a full Coney Island day.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Nostalgic, colorful, and energetic—families report big smiles and tired feet after a sun-soaked day.
