Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids on the Upper West Side
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids on the Upper West Side
1. American Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, giant whales, and hands-on discovery spaces make this museum a slam dunk for curious kids. Galleries are spacious, stroller-friendly, and easy to dip in and out of between snack breaks.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the city’s ultimate science playground where kids can see T. rex up close, wander through ecosystems, and connect classroom learning to real-life wonders.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings outside school holidays for lighter crowds; rainy or cold days are perfect since most experiences are indoors.
✓ Insider Tip:
Enter via the 81st Street/Rose Center side to streamline security and head straight to your first exhibit; reserve timed admission in advance.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the wow factor and the variety—there’s always something new to discover, from special exhibits to perennial favorites.
2. Hayden Planetarium
Inside the Rose Center, immersive space shows turn the universe into a kid-accessible adventure, from starry skies to black holes on a wraparound dome screen.
✓ Why Go:
It sparks big imaginations—perfect for budding astronauts and science-loving families who want a captivating, sit-down experience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
First shows of the day or late afternoons; midweek during the school year is calmest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Choose aisle seats near the back for easy exits with younger kids and check age guidance for each show before booking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the wow-worthy visuals and clear narration that keeps kids engaged without overwhelming them.
3. DiMenna Children's History Museum
A dedicated kids’ space inside the New-York Historical Society where children explore NYC’s past through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling.
✓ Why Go:
It makes history tangible and fun, encouraging hands-on learning and empathy through kid-centered design.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings and weekday afternoons; pair with a quick playground stop across Central Park West.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the museum’s calendar for family workshops and scavenger hunts—great for mixing ages and interests.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families appreciate the manageable size and thoughtful exhibits that keep kids engaged without fatigue.
4. Central Park
The Upper West Side edge of Central Park is dotted with kid magnets like Diana Ross Playground (81st St) and Safari Playground (93rd St), plus open lawns for picnics.
✓ Why Go:
Free, flexible outdoor time where kids can run, climb, and explore nature steps from museums and cafes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings in spring and fall; summer evenings for cooler temps; crisp winter days for crowd-free play.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small sand toy set and pack snacks—playgrounds here tend to keep kids happily occupied longer than planned.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents love the easy mix of structured playgrounds and wide-open space, calling it an essential reset between attractions.
5. Riverside Park
A scenic ribbon along the Hudson with standout playgrounds (Hippo at 91st, Elephant at 76th), bike paths, and breezy river views.
✓ Why Go:
It’s calmer than Central Park, great for scooters and training-wheel rides, and offers sunset magic over the water.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoons for golden light; weekends for playground community vibes; spring for blossoms and fall for foliage.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a lightweight ball or frisbee—open lawns and waterfront nooks make spontaneous play easy.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the relaxed, neighborhood feel and the playground variety that suits toddlers through tweens.
6. Symphony Space
Beloved arts hub known for its weekend family series featuring kid-friendly concerts, theater, puppetry, and storytelling.
✓ Why Go:
Shows are tailored to young audiences, often under an hour, making them a perfect first performing-arts experience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Saturday and Sunday mornings or early afternoons when family programming is typically scheduled.
✓ Insider Tip:
Choose aisle seats for quick exits with little ones and check for post-show meet-and-greets.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents value the welcoming staff and thoughtful pacing that keeps kids engaged without overwhelm.
7. Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
World-class campus with family concerts, free outdoor events, and the mesmerizing Revson Fountain at Josie Robertson Plaza.
✓ Why Go:
It introduces kids to big-stage culture in bite-size doses, with plenty of open space to roam between events.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons and early evenings in spring/summer for outdoor programming; holiday periods for festive performances.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early to watch the fountain choreography and snag a spot on the steps for a built-in pre-show picnic.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families describe it as inspiring yet approachable—glamorous setting, friendly programs for kids.
8. St. Agnes Library (NYPL)
Neighborhood branch with storytimes, craft sessions, and a well-stocked children’s room ideal for calm breaks from sightseeing.
✓ Why Go:
Free, cozy, and enriching—perfect for toddlers to early readers and a reliable rainy-day refuge.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for storytime; late afternoons for quiet reading and homework help.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the NYPL events calendar and register early—popular programs fill fast.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate welcoming librarians and age-appropriate activities that feel authentically local.
9. Book Culture on Columbus
Independent bookstore with a charming children’s section, frequent author visits, and thoughtful toy and puzzle picks.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a low-pressure cultural stop where kids can browse, join a storytime, and pick a subway read.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning storytimes or mid-afternoon lulls between school let-out and evening rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head upstairs for the kids’ nook and ask staff for age-specific recommendations—they’re spot-on.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the friendly vibe and curated selections that make souvenir-book buying a highlight.
10. Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan
Community center offering family swim sessions, arts workshops, film events, and weekend programs designed for kids.
✓ Why Go:
It provides structured, age-appropriate activities in a welcoming setting—ideal for mixing with local families.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings for family programming; check schedules for special events and holiday activities.
✓ Insider Tip:
Many events are open to non-members—book ahead online and arrive a few minutes early for check-in.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the inclusive atmosphere and well-run classes that keep kids active and engaged.
