Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Long Island City
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Long Island City
1. Gantry Plaza State Park
A sweeping East River waterfront with restored gantries, piers, lawns, and play areas, Gantry Plaza State Park is LIC’s signature family stroll. Kids can run along wide promenades, watch ferries glide by, and spot iconic skyline views and the historic Pepsi-Cola sign.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the ultimate breezy outdoor reset with room to roam, skyline photo ops, and playground features steps from cafés and restrooms.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into sunset spring–fall for golden light and cooler temps; weekdays are quieter for strollers.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a picnic and aim for Pier 1 or the lawn near 47th Road for the best Midtown views and space to spread out.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the clean paths, stroller-friendly layout, and unforgettable Manhattan vistas.
2. Hunters Point South Park
A modern waterfront extension with meadows, a spacious playground, riverside promenades, and a breezy oval perfect for scooting. Its dramatic views and gentle gradients make it a favorite for toddlers and grade-schoolers alike.
✓ Why Go:
Combines big-sky scenery with kid-forward features and plenty of seating for parents.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings on weekends for playground time; summer evenings for cool river breezes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack swim shoes—kids love the seasonal splash features and misting areas on hot days.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents call it a “mini-vacation” spot with ample shade and room to play.
3. Queens Public Library at Hunters Point
This striking waterfront library pairs jaw-dropping architecture with a cozy children’s room, storytimes, and nooks to read while watching boats pass. The building’s stepped windows frame postcard views that keep kids curious.
✓ Why Go:
Free, air-conditioned (or heated) culture stop with kid-specific programming and places to unwind between park time.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for storytime and quiet browsing; rainy or very hot days for an indoor break.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask about family events and grab a window bench upstairs for a picture-perfect reading spot.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the welcoming staff, bright spaces, and calm vibe.
4. MoMA PS1
Housed in a former school, MoMA PS1 showcases cutting-edge contemporary art with interactive installations that often delight curious kids. The courtyard hosts seasonal projects that invite exploration.
✓ Why Go:
A bite-sized art experience where kids can discover that museums are playful and surprising, not just quiet rooms.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend afternoons outside of major openings; check for family-friendly installations and events.
✓ Insider Tip:
Start in the courtyard and work inward—short bursts keep little attention spans engaged.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the manageable size and inventive exhibits that spark conversation.
5. The Cliffs at LIC
A massive indoor rock-climbing gym with youth walls, auto-belays, and classes that channel boundless kid energy into problem-solving fun.
✓ Why Go:
Active, confidence-building play in a safe, supervised environment—great for rainy days or winter weekends.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late afternoons and weekend mornings; reserve day passes or youth sessions in advance.
✓ Insider Tip:
First-timers should ask for kid-friendly routes and auto-belay orientation to maximize climb time.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about encouraging staff and the thrill kids get from topping their first route.
6. City Ice Pavilion
Queens’ year-round, covered rooftop rink offers public sessions, skate rentals, and learn-to-skate classes—an instant hit with kids.
✓ Why Go:
A classic NYC activity without Midtown crowds, perfect for all skill levels.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend morning public sessions and school holidays—arrive early to beat lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress in layers; the rink is covered but breezy. Check the schedule for family-session pricing.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents commend friendly staff and a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
7. Murray Park
A local favorite pocket-park with two play areas, swings, ball courts, and shady benches—ideal for a low-key playground stop.
✓ Why Go:
Easy in–out playtime close to cafés and the 7 train, with equipment for multiple ages.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late mornings on weekdays for toddler time; late afternoons for school-age kids.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab coffee or snacks on 45th Ave and make this a relaxed play-and-picnic break.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it clean, friendly, and perfectly scaled for younger children.
8. SculptureCenter
A compact contemporary art space in a former trolley repair shop, SculptureCenter presents inventive exhibitions that often use unexpected materials—great for sparking kids’ “how did they make that?” curiosity.
✓ Why Go:
Short, engaging shows make art approachable for families and easy to pair with nearby bites.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons midweek or early weekend hours when galleries are quieter.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for a quick orientation and focus on one or two standout works for younger visitors.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the calm setting and conversation-starting installations.
9. Pepsi-Cola Sign
This landmark neon sign sits right on the LIC waterfront—part history lesson, part epic backdrop for a family photo with Midtown behind you.
✓ Why Go:
Quick, memorable stop steps from playgrounds and lawns—kids love the giant letters.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Golden hour for photos; evenings when the sign glows.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand along the riverside path just south of the sign for a perfect frame of the skyline and letters together.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a fun, iconic checklist moment that doubles as a great photo op.
10. Court Square Diner
A beloved 24/7 neighborhood diner where kids can refuel on pancakes, grilled cheese, or a classic milkshake after a day on the waterfront.
✓ Why Go:
Easy, affordable family meal with a big menu and quick service near multiple subway lines.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Off-peak late mornings or early evenings for faster seating; weekend brunch gets busy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a window booth so train-loving kids can watch the elevated tracks nearby.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise friendly staff, generous portions, and kid-pleasing comfort food.
