Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Flushing
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Flushing
1. New York Hall of Science
A hands-on science museum where kids build, tinker, and test ideas across hundreds of interactive exhibits, plus an outdoor Science Playground in warm weather.
✓ Why Go:
It turns curiosity into play—perfect for toddlers through tweens who learn best by touching, climbing, and experimenting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for lighter crowds; summer for the outdoor playground and water features; rainy or cold days for the indoor exhibits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a change of clothes for the outdoor areas on warm days and budget time for Rocket Park Mini Golf just outside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the engaging exhibits and friendly staff, calling it an easy, full half-day that flies by.
2. Queens Zoo
A manageable, walkable zoo with Andean bears, pumas, pronghorn, and a beloved sea lion pool, plus a separate children’s farm with barnyard animals.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the right size for younger kids—wildlife up close without overwhelming distances, and plenty of shade in summer.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall for active animals and comfortable temps; early mornings on hot summer days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the day’s feeding and keeper talk times at the entrance—kids love the sea lion presentation.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love its mellow, family-first feel and call it a perfect add-on to a Flushing Meadows park day.
3. Queens Botanical Garden
An urban oasis with themed gardens, pollinator-friendly plantings, and kid-friendly trails that invite slow, sensory exploration.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a calm counterpoint to the city—space to wander, sniff, and spot butterflies, with seasonal family programs.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
April–June for blooms; September–October for harvest season and comfortable walking weather.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick up a family scavenger hunt at the visitors’ desk to turn the garden into a nature quest.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the stroller-friendly paths and call it a peaceful reset between bigger attractions.
4. USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center
Home of the US Open with public courts, junior clinics, and the chance to peek into a world-class sports campus.
✓ Why Go:
Tennis-loving families can rally on famous grounds and inspire young athletes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late August–early September for US Open buzz (book ahead); year-round for public court time and clinics.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring ID for court rentals and check junior program availability in advance, especially on weekends.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families describe it as thrilling for sports fans and surprisingly accessible between tournaments.
5. Citi Field
Modern ballpark and home of the New York Mets, with great sightlines, a Hall of Fame & Museum, and a lively family atmosphere.
✓ Why Go:
Baseball is a classic NYC family memory—easy transit access and plenty of kid-friendly concessions.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
April–September for home games; arrive early to explore the team museum before first pitch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Many Sunday day games feature kids running the bases postgame—check the Mets’ promotional schedule.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents rave about the clean stadium, friendly staff, and energetic, welcoming vibe for first-time fans.
6. Flushing Town Hall
A historic arts hub hosting family concerts, global music, puppet shows, and hands-on art workshops.
✓ Why Go:
It introduces kids to world cultures and the performing arts in an intimate, affordable setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekends and school breaks when family programs and workshops are most frequent.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check for free or low-cost family series and arrive a bit early for front-row seats without fuss.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a neighborhood gem with welcoming staff and high-quality performances for all ages.
7. Lewis Latimer House Museum
The preserved home of inventor Lewis Latimer offers STEAM-focused exhibits and family programs about creativity and innovation.
✓ Why Go:
It connects kids to a pioneering Black inventor and sparks conversations about invention and problem-solving.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Select afternoons and program days; check hours as tours are often timed.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair a short house tour with a simple hands-on activity kit available during family events.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families find it inspiring, intimate, and a quick, meaningful stop in central Flushing.
8. Bowne House
A 17th-century homestead and museum where kids step into early American life through artifacts and guided storytelling.
✓ Why Go:
It turns local history into something tangible and invites questions about daily life centuries ago.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Limited open hours—plan for scheduled tour days and quieter weekday slots in summer.
✓ Insider Tip:
Combine with nearby Weeping Beech Park for a quick post-tour playground break.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe the guides as passionate and the house as a memorable window into Flushing’s past.
9. Queens Public Library at Flushing
One of NYC’s busiest libraries with a large children’s room, multilingual storytimes, homework help, and quiet corners to recharge.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a free, air-conditioned (or heated) respite with enriching programs for all ages.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings for toddler storytimes; late afternoons for homework help during the school year.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the events calendar for weekend family crafts and STEM clubs—slots can fill quickly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families appreciate the welcoming staff and breadth of kids’ programming in the heart of downtown Flushing.
10. New World Mall Food Court
A bustling food court with dozens of stalls—perfect for picky eaters to sample dumplings, noodles, bubble tea, and more under one roof.
✓ Why Go:
Quick, affordable, and adventurous dining turns lunch into a mini world tour for kids.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or mid-afternoon to avoid peak mealtime lines; weekdays are calmer than weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring cash for some vendors and share a few small dishes so kids can try multiple bites.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents love the variety and value, noting it’s an easy crowd-pleaser near the 7 train.
