Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near the Brooklyn Bridge
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near the Brooklyn Bridge
1. Brooklyn Bridge Park
A sweeping waterfront park stretching along the East River with lawns, playgrounds, splash pads, athletic courts, and postcard views of the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline.
✓ Why Go:
Kids can run free between sand pits, swings, and climbing structures while parents soak in skyline vistas. It’s the family hub of DUMBO with restrooms, shade, and food nearby.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall for picnics, playgrounds, and sunset breezes; winter weekends for quieter walks and hot chocolate stops.
✓ Insider Tip:
Base at Pier 6 for the Water Lab on hot days and Slide Mountain for thrill-seekers; bring a change of clothes for splash play.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the clean facilities, spectacular views, and variety of things to do for all ages.
2. Jane's Carousel
A beautifully restored 1922 carousel encased in a glass pavilion right on the river, spinning to skyline views kids won’t forget.
✓ Why Go:
Short, joyful rides delight toddlers and big kids alike, and the glass enclosure means fun in most weather.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid lines; golden hour for magical photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a few singles—tickets are inexpensive and rides are quick; stroller parking is available outside the pavilion.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents call it a must-do DUMBO classic that feels special without taking a big chunk of time.
3. Time Out Market New York
A curated food hall inside the historic Empire Stores with diverse kid-pleasing eats and a rooftop terrace overlooking the bridge.
✓ Why Go:
Picky eaters win—pizza, noodles, tacos, and ice cream under one roof, plus high chairs and plenty of seating.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early lunch or early dinner to beat crowds; weekdays are mellower than weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the rooftop for free skyline views even if you’re not dining; grab cupcakes or gelato for a post-park treat.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the choices, views, and convenience steps from the waterfront.
4. Brooklyn Bridge
An iconic walk across a soaring suspension bridge with protected pedestrian paths and nonstop skyline, harbor, and Statue of Liberty views.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a bucket-list NYC experience manageable for kids, with plenty of photo stops and exit points on either side.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for cool temps and fewer crowds; sunset for dramatic light (bring layers and water).
✓ Insider Tip:
Start in Brooklyn and walk toward Manhattan for the best skyline views; use a stroller for little legs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Kids feel proud completing the walk, and parents call it a highlight of their NYC trip.
5. South Street Seaport Museum
A hands-on maritime museum with historic ships, galleries, and kid-friendly activities in the cobblestoned Seaport district near the bridge’s Manhattan side.
✓ Why Go:
Ship models, printing presses, and pier-side exploration bring NYC’s harbor history to life for curious kids.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons after a morning bridge walk; check for weekend family workshops.
✓ Insider Tip:
Combine the museum with a wander along Pier 16 to see tall ships up close.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the manageable size, helpful staff, and engaging exhibits for school-age children.
6. Pier
A revitalized waterfront pier with wide decks to roam, pop-up programming, seasonal activities, and unbeatable bridge views.
✓ Why Go:
Safe, open space for strollers and scooters with plenty of benches, snacks, and restrooms close by.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into evening for shade and live vibes; winter for holiday lights and cozy bites nearby.
✓ Insider Tip:
Walk to the end of the pier for the best family photos with the Brooklyn Bridge as your backdrop.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the open space and easygoing atmosphere right by the water.
7. New York Transit Museum
An underground museum in a decommissioned subway station filled with vintage trains, buses, and hands-on exhibits kids can climb into.
✓ Why Go:
Transportation-obsessed kids can pretend to drive buses, sit in old subway cars, and learn how NYC moves.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning entry to enjoy exhibits before school groups; rainy-day favorite.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small snack for the nearby plaza and snap photos on the classic subway benches.
✓ What Visitors Say:
A consistent family hit—educational and fun without being overwhelming.
8. Powerhouse Arena
A bright indie bookstore and gallery in DUMBO that hosts story times, author events, and creative workshops for kids.
✓ Why Go:
Calm down time after playgrounds—browse picture books, pick up NYC-themed reads, and discover local creators.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday between park play and meals; check schedules for weekend story hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for DUMBO- and bridge-themed books to make the day feel like a mini-curriculum.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the friendly staff and thoughtful kids’ selection.
9. Environmental Education Center
Brooklyn Bridge Park’s indoor discovery space with rotating, touchable exhibits about the East River’s ecology and the park’s wildlife.
✓ Why Go:
Hands-on learning complements outdoor play, perfect for curious kids and a great backup on hot or rainy days.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend afternoons or anytime during extreme weather when you need an indoor break.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pair with a quick critter-spotting stroll along the nearby shoreline and bring a notebook for sketches.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families appreciate the free or low-cost activities and engaged educators.
10. Brooklyn Heights Promenade
A leafy esplanade perched above the waterfront with benches, playground access points, and sweeping views of the bridge and Lower Manhattan.
✓ Why Go:
Stroller-friendly and peaceful, it’s ideal for snacks, skyline spotting, and family photos without the crowds below.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning for calm shade and bird song; sunset for golden light over the river.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter via Montague Street after grabbing take-away treats on the way up from the park.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a serene, can’t-miss vantage point that’s easy with kids.
