From iconic landmarks like Central Park and the Statue of Liberty to interactive museums like the Children's Museum of Manhattan and the New York Hall of Science, there's something for kids of all ages. Take a ride on the historic carousel in Prospect Park, catch a Broadway show tailored for young audiences, or embark on an adventure at the Bronx Zoo or the New York Aquarium. Countless parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants help families create unforgettable memories in NYC.
Unique attractions: enjoy everything NYC has to offer
NYC is a tourist's dream, and even if you are from the city, there is no shortage of fun ways to spend your evening in unique and memorable ways.
Solve puzzles and challenge yourself at an escape room
Spend an hour with your kids solving puzzles, testing your lateral thinking abilities and taking in an immersive experience in one of New York’s many different escape room experiences. You’ll be split into teams and placed in a themed room that features anything from international espionage to superhero comics to spooky ghost manors. Then, you’ll have to solve the mystery to escape! Kids and adults work together to solve puzzles, decode clues, and locate objects to escape within the time limit. Not only are these challenging events a fun way to test your brain power and work together, each room is a unique and hand-crafted experience that is a fun challenge for all ages.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Brooklyn Children’s Museum is open for play! Kids can explore some of their most-loved exhibits, including toddler-favorite Totally Tots, the miniature shops of World Brooklyn, and the rooftop kids’ climber. After they’ve seen it all, take them to the second floor for a guided art workshop in the ColorLab family art studio. BCM’s programs offer sensory play and exploration that encourages children’s social, emotional, and physical development.
Brookfield Place
If you are looking to shop in Manhattan, everything you could need is located at Brookfield place, a modern shopping and entertainment center that overlooks the Hudson River. You’ll find brands for the kids like J. Crew, Janie and Jack, and Nike Well Collective. You can also catch some live music, grab a healthy juice or an artisan sandwich, or even slip down to the North Cove Marina to go sailing.
Lightscape at Brooklyn Botanic Garden: Enjoy natural winter beauty
Your kids will marvel at the beauty of Lightscape, a trail of illuminated art installations at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. This treasured winter event features over a million lights in a blaze of color and music. As you walk along the trail, you can enjoy cool weather treats like warm cider, hot chocolate, and mulled wine, plus sweet treats.
Ice Skating: Visit the iconic rink at 30 Rock
In the winter, the Rockefeller Center opens a world-class skating rink, giving skaters a rare opportunity to enjoy outdoor skating. With a Prometheus statue and enormous Christmas Tree in the backdrop, The Rink at 30 Rock offers a picturesque skating experience like no other. Skaters can enjoy all the classic amenities, from skate aids to skate sharpening.
Sunset Cruise: View the beauty of the NYC skyline
New York City has one of the most scenic and impressive skylines in the world and some of the best places to view the scenery is on the Hudson or the Atlantic. Several different charter companies run guided tours of New York City’s waterways, giving you the opportunity to see the city in a light you may have never seen before. These tours can include beautiful glimpses of the sunset or fabulous views of the vistas and landmarks of the city (great for tourists and visitors).
Helicopter Tour: See the city in a new way
A helicopter ride is a thrill for kids of all ages. These exciting, one of a kind tour events will give you the chance to soar over the city in a helicopter and see the NYC skyline from an angle that few will ever see. Take a quick trip in the air to see the Statue of Liberty like you’ve never seen her before or sign up for a longer tour and see all 5 boroughs from 6,000 feet. You’ll never forget the look of NYC from aboard a helicopter and you’ll have a story that will last a lifetime.
Art Experiences: Make your own unique masterpiece
There is no shortage of schools and galleries that offer kids a chance to become artists themselves. Art classes for kids unleash their creativity, build confidence, and send them home with their own masterpieces in hand.
Bowling: Play a few frames
If you are looking for a fun night out that won't empty your wallet, head to the nearest bowling alley. Bowling is a great way to get exercise and spend time with your kids, and you don't need to buy a lot of equipment to get started. You can rent shoes and bowling alleys don't charge a membership fee, so it's easy to try it out if you are a beginner. There are many great bowling alleys all over New York, so you can choose from alleys with arcade games, bars, restaurants, or a retro vibe.
Dave and Buster’s: Play games and have a few drinks
With seven locations in NYC, including a flagship location in Times Square, Dave and Buster’s has a significant presence in the city and is a perfect place to spend an evening with your kids. Dave and Buster’s is essentially designed as an arcade that is also an excellent fast-casual restaurant, making it a great place to spend a day or an evening just having fun. They also host kids birthday parties and other get-togethers, making them the perfect place to host a social function.
Visit an outdoor market
Outdoor markets come to life with fresh eats, live entertainment, and an explosion of local culture and cuisine. It’s the perfect place to take the kids because no one will notice if they forget to use their indoor voices. Here are some markets you don’t want to miss.
Bronx Night Market
The Bronx Night Market isn't just any food event. It’s the longest-running series in the borough, and it's transformed the food scene and become a part of the Bronx's identity. The pickiest of eaters will find something they like among a remarkable lineup of 50 local vendors that offer a diverse range of cuisines. You don’t want to miss this bustling hub of community and gastronomic bliss. But it's more than just food; the Night Market celebrates the borough's unique identity in a fusion of flavors, cultures, and people. If you want to experience the true essence of the borough, the Bronx Night Market is the place to be.
Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market is NYC’s first and most affordable night market. This large, family-friendly open-air night market features over 100 independent vendors selling merchandise, art, and food and featuring small-scale cultural performances, all celebrating the rich cultural diversity and heritage of NYC and Queens. The foodie festival runs on Saturday nights through the summer at the New York Hall of Science in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
Uptown Night Market
Uptown Night Market is a foodie mecca in the heart of Harlem. Over 80 vendors serve dishes and libations from all corners of the world, bringing unmatched authenticity and passion to your meal. From mouthwatering Mexican-style hot dogs to tantalizing tacos and everything in between, there's something for everyone at this epic street bash. You don’t need a ticket to catch all the excitement here.
Latin Night Market
Celebrate the cuisine and culture of the Latin diaspora in Uptown. The Latin Night Market shows off South and Central American cuisine from over 50 vendors. Sample Latin and Caribbean food, and catch live performances featuring genres like Salsa, Reggae, Rumba, Jazz, Latin Pop, and Hip Hop. Enjoy activities for the whole family, art shows, raffles and giveaways, and more.
Brooklyn Night Market
Sample cuisines from around the world while you listen to live music at this foodie festival in Industry City. The Brooklyn Night Market is hosted against the backdrop of a stunning sunset and between two iconic city blocks. You’ll get a taste of the best of Brooklyn here, with a fusion of flavors, cultures, and community spirit.
Vegan Market
Take your kids to this plant-based mecca in Central Park. From die-hard vegans to curious folks, to “I got dragged here by my partner but it’s actually pretty good, ” everyone will discover something that pleases their palate. This market leads the way in plant-based foods and broader plant-based living. Innovative vegan entrepreneurs deliver not just cruelty-free cuisine and share a broader cultural shift toward sustainable and compassionate choices.
STEM for Fun: Check out Science, Math, and Technology
New York Hall of Science
Your kids won't just learn how to see the science all around you, they'll have the chance to solve problems, ask new questions, and learn through discovery. New York Hall of Science is New York City's only hands-on science center. More than 450 interactive exhibits bring biology, chemistry, and technology to life, including Rocket Park Mini Golf, the award-winning 60,000 square-foot Science Playground, and Design Lab—an innovative hands-on space that helps young visitors gain a greater understanding of the design and engineering process. NYSCI occupies one of the few remaining structures from the 1964 New York World's Fair and is New York City's only hands-on science and technology center.
Museum of the Moving Image
Museum of the Moving Image (MoMI) is the only museum in the U.S. that explores the moving image in all its forms. Screens play a big role in kids' lives, helping them learn, have fun, and connect with others. MoMI focuses on moving images like film, television, video games, and digital media, and how they shape our perceptions of the world. Your kids can take in an exhibition, catch a film, or sign up for a class.
Intrepid Museum
A visit to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an adventure like no other. You’ll step aboard a real aircraft carrier turned museum docked on the Hudson river. Your kids can explore the decks, check out interactive exhibits, and learn about legendary aircraft like the supersonic Concorde, the submarine Growler, and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Kids can get up close and personal with historic artifacts and interactive exhibit that bring aviation and space travel to life.
History comes alive
Harbor Defense Museum
Nestled within the historic Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, the Harbor Defense Museum takes kids on a journey through the maritime military history of New York Harbor. As the only military museum in New York City, it showcases the strategic significance of coastal defense throughout the nation's history. Exhibits include weaponry, uniforms, and interactive displays that detail the evolution of harbor defenses. The museum takes you through the role New York Harbor played, from the Revolutionary War era to modern-day maritime operations, in shaping the nation’s defense strategies.
New York Transit Museum
What kid doesn’t love trains? While other archives cover a wide array of city history, the Transit Museum takes a deep dive into one iconic aspect of New York life: public transit. Situated in a former subway station since 1976, it showcases vintage train cars from the 20th century alongside modern creations like art installations from the MTA’s Arts for Transit program. And let’s not forget Sadie, the fluffy gray cat ruling the lower-level subway platform, keeping pesky rodents at bay while lounging in style in an old-timey car. Keep an eye out for her during your visit—it's a purrfect photo op!
American Museum of Natural History: Learn about the history of the world
See dinosaur fossils up close at the American Museum of Natural History. At one of the largest museums in the world, kids can get lost exploring over 34 million specimens. The American Museum of Natural History contains 46 exhibition halls that hold a sundry collection of authentic taxidermy, dinosaur fossils, plants, insects, artifacts, and even a live Butterfly Vivarium. With its impressive Roman basilica and Beaux-Arts monument, the building provides the setting for the films, Night at The Museum and The Day After Tomorrow. As a bonus, the museum stands across the street from Central Park, giving easy access for you to hit the park afterward.
Center for Brooklyn History
Kids can learn about the 400-year history of Brooklyn at in institution that was part of it. The Center for Brooklyn History was founded in 1863. It’s located in a landmark four-story Queen Anne–style building that was designed by George B. Post. The center houses numerous permanent and ongoing exhibits, including "It Happened in Brooklyn, " highlighting local links to crucial moments in American history. This freshly renovated landmark building—home to the Othmer Library's magnificent reading room—is a trove of special collections, archives, ephemera, art exhibits and programs that bring the city's rich history to Brooklynites of all ages. Classes like Kids Create, Game On!, and Build with Lego engage kids in this journey into history.
Underground Bunkers: Explore the Past
Tucked away at the farthest edges of Queens, a quiet strip of land reaches out into the Atlantic Ocean alongside the vibrant vibes of Coney Island and Brighton Beach. Fort Tilden is a fascinating slice of history that was bustling with activity during World War I. Now, it’s your private beach, part of the 26,000-acre Gateway National Recreation Area, surrounded by the echoes of a bygone era. Your kids will feel the thrill of exploration as they wander through its abandoned nooks and crannies, now reclaimed by nature with sandy dunes and lush greenery. It's like stepping into a forgotten adventure amidst the city.
Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
Take your kids back in time as you walk through this preserved mansion. This is the only grand 19th century country house still in existence on Pelham bay. Originally built in the 1830s, this elegant Greek Revival features stunning architecture, fascinating exhibits, and lush manicured gardens. Now, you can take a tour of the mansion and carriage house, and view the collection fo furnishings and art. Stroll the grounds and formal gardens and imagine country estate life on Pelham Bay.
City Island Nautical Museum
A visit to City Island is like stepping back to the past. Access to the island is limited by a small bridge and has kept much of this nautical hub from development. The island is famous for its ties to the ocean and its yacht-building past. Photographs, stories, and exhibits showcase the rich maritime history in this cozy homage to the past. You can explore the iconic shipyards, meet the skilled craftsmen, and uncover the secrets behind the construction of legendary sailing and motor yachts. Get an insider's look at the military vessels built during wartime and the sleek 12-meter sloops that dominated the America's Cup. The City Island Nautical Museum is housed in a school building designed by C.B.J. Snyder in 1897, and is now on the National Register of Historic Places and a designated New York City landmark.
American Museum of Natural History
Find the answers to the universe in this 150-year-old NYC institution. There are wonders at every turn, from a massive grizzly bear, to a 94-foot long blue whale and a prehistoric Barosaurus skeleton. Four floors are packed with wonders from the depths of the ocean to the far reaches of space, so there's something to spark your curiosity at every turn.
Parks and Gardens
Central Park: Experience the outdoors at night
Created in 1858, Central Park is one of the best-known city parks around the globe. This beautiful, grassy park is situated in the heart of Manhattan and is the perfect place to people-watch, stroll, or picnic. Central park offers a diverse landscape including a lake and over 18,000 trees which house more than 300 bird species. In addition to 800+ acres of nature, the park also contains a variety of other attractions, including the Tisch Children’s Zoo, Belvedere Castle’s Henry Luce Nature Observatory, and 21 unique playgrounds. The Central Park Carousel turns round to the accompaniment of organ music, while rowboats bob on the nearby lake.
Queens Botanical Garden
Take your kids for a peaceful stroll through one of the most beautiful gardens in the city. Queens Botanical Garden evolved from the 5-acre “Gardens on Parade” exhibit showcased at the 1939–1940 World’s Fair. Local residents saved and expanded the original exhibit, which was later moved to its current location on Main Street in Flushing. Original plantings were incorporated from the 1939 site such as two blue atlas cedars that frame the iconic tree gate sculpture at the Garden’s Main Street entrance. Queens Botanical Garden is a 39-acre oasis in one of New York City’s most bustling and diverse neighborhoods and is unlike any other botanical garden in the world.
Van Cortlandt Park
Play a round, learn cricket, go horseback riding, or just wander through the 7.5-mile loop trail. With over a thousand acres to explore, Van Cortlandt park is the city's third-largest park, and it boasts everything from playing fields to playgrounds. Tibbets Brook creates a haven of water sound as it weaves through dense forests. You'll find the nation's first public golf course, the oldest house in the Bronx, and the borough's biggest freshwater lake.
Valentino Pier
Where can you take your kids to see a view of the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, Manhattan’s skyline, Staten Island, and the New York Harbor? This little-known park is a gem along Brooklyn’s waterfront. Though it’s now surrounded by industrial, residential, and historic buildings, Valentino Pier was once the site of an active shipping industry that formed after the Red Hook district was settled by the Dutch in the 1600s. The pier was constructed in 1996 to commemorate the shipping industry that once occupied the waters of the Buttermilk Channel and the Upper New York Harbor. The park is also home to a collection of street art, and there’s a waterfront lawn and a kayak boat launch.
Inwood Hill Park
Inwood Hill Park is a slice of New York eons before people were there. Glaciers shaped it’s prehistoric caves, valleys, and ridges that are now lush forest and salt marsh, the last such habitat in Manhattan. Ongoing discoveries reveal the history of Native Americans who occupied this swath of ground. Today, the park is a haven of natural beauty with hiking trails, bike paths, and even a chance to spot a bald eagle. You’ll also find modern amenities like athletic fields, playgrounds, dog runs, and picnic areas.
Orchard Beach
Bring your sun hat and your beach towel. Orchard Beach is the Bronx’s only public beach, and at 1.1 miles long, there’s room for everyone. This ambitious public space was proclaimed “The Riviera of New York” when it was created in the 1930’s. Now it features two playgrounds, two picnic areas, and 26 courts for basketball, volleyball, and handball.
Do it yourself: art and creative experiences
Art Classes for Kids
Your kids will learn a new skill and create their own personal masterpieces in any of these creative DIY courses. From drawing to painting to sculpture, art expands kids' creativity and develops essential technical skills. There are classes for kids as young as toddlers, or more adventuresome classes aimed at teens with a burgeoning passion for art.
Acting for Kids
Acting lessons stretch your child’s imagination and build their confidence in front of an audience. They’ll learn through games, exercises, and performances to set their shyness aside and express themselves. Kids can learn everything from acting in a play to performing as a clown.
Kids’ Music Classes
From singing and dancing to playing instruments, kids learn valuable skills and gain confidence when they take music classes. Plus, they have lots of fun. They can learn to fuel their passion for music with DJ skills or pluck out some chords on the guitar. Whether your kids like pop music, jazz, or classical, you’ll find a music class that’s a perfect fit.
See the animals
Queens Zoo
Explore the wild wonders of the Queens Zoo, where paths meandering through 13 acres feature North American wildlife in their natural habitats. Visitors can see American bison, mountain lions, California sea lions, American bald eagles, and Roosevelt elk. Don't miss the aviary; once the iconic Winston Churchill Pavilion at the 1964-65 World's Fair, it’s now a breathtaking spiral walkway where vibrant birds flutter freely. The ornate Gates of Life by Albino Manca and Clarke and Rapuano adorn the zoo's entrance, celebrating the beauty of nature.
Queens County Farm Museum
Queens County Farm Museum is a pastoral oasis where history, agriculture, and community come together on 47 acres of farmland. Founded in 1697, this living museum preserves Queens' rich agricultural heritage and offers a taste of rural life for urban kids. The sprawling grounds are dotted with historic farm buildings, lush orchards, and gardens teeming with seasonal crops. Meet the barnyard sheep, chickens, and goats, or hop on a hayride to claim your prize Halloween pumpkin. The farm offers workshops and seasonal events for visitors of all ages. Be a volunteer farmer and tend the fields alongside farmers; you’ll get some exercise and fresh air, and learn what it takes to grow your own food. Queens Farm is open to the public seven days a week with free admission.
Wave Hill
You won’t believe you’re still in the city when you venture into this part park, part public garden oasis. From the viewpoint of this 19th-century estate, you can take in the Hudson River below and the Palisades in the distance. Shady trails pass by gazebos and flower beds, and a fragrant herb garden tantalizes your senses. This city-owned escape is so peaceful your kids will think they’ve found their own secret garden.
Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
You might not expect to find one of the largest bird habitats in the northeast in Queens. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge is a sprawling sanctuary that offers a wild escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Take your kids to explore winding trails, spot migratory birds, and marvel at the stunning marshlands that provide a habitat for a diverse array of wildlife. With over 12,000 acres of saltmarshes, freshwater, and brackish ponds, upland fields and woods, and open bay and islands, it provides sanctuary to both migrating species and local birds.
See the sights: landmarks, tours and vistas
Sometimes, you just want to spend the day outside, exploring the natural beauty and architectural wonder of NYC. Whether you want to visit Central Park, explore Times Square, or see some of the amazing hundred-year-old buildings, there is no shortage of places to explore.
Visit the High Line: See a unique urban park
High Line is a one-of-a-kind outdoor park built on a raised freight rail from the 20th century.
Awash with wildflowers, plants, and outdoor art installations, the park offers 360-degree views of the Hudson River and surrounding city. High Line is a fabulous place to take a scenic family walk, with a trail that runs from the Hudson Yards to the northern perimeter of Chelsea. The park is situated on the west side of Manhattan and is wheelchair accessible through several entrances.
Tour Wall Street: Take a picture with the bull
Do you have a budding stock broker in your family? Wall Street is an impressive space to explore in its own right. Not only can you visit some of the impressive architectural wonders, like the NYSE, the Woolworth Building or Trinity Church, you can also see some of the famous art that adorns the streets, like the Bull of Wall Street and the Fearless Girl. You can take educational tours, including insider tours detailing the financial industry, and historical tours, like one explaining the history of financial crises that have impacted Wall Street. There are even tours that look at the pop culture presence of Wall Street such as an unofficial Successiontour.
Top of The Rock: See the city like never before
Night or day, Top of The Rock is one of the best places to get an unobstructed view of NYC’s skyline. Situated in Rockefeller Plaza, Top of The Rock offers three levels of outdoor and indoor observation decks that dazzle with 360-degree views. From 70 floors up, your kids can spot national treasures like the Empire State Building along with the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, and the New York Public Library.
The Edge Observation Deck: Look over the city
For a riveting experience, take your kids to the top of Edge Observation Deck, the highest open-air observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. Suspended on a glass floor, the deck gives visitors the sense of flying as they enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of NYC. Angled glass allows viewers to lean out over the city for an added thrill, while rock climbing equipment makes it possible to climb the skyscraper right over the city. Part of 30 Hudson Yards, Edge Observation Deck also offers a variety of other activities, including joint tickets to museums like The Museum of Modern Art.
Brooklyn Bridge: Walk the iconic bridge after dark
Built in the 19th century, the Brooklyn Bridge was the first bridge in history to make use of steel as cable wiring, and is one of New York’s finest industrial landmarks. At the time, this gothic suspension bridge was the longest ever built, measuring a mile that can be walked in roughly 30 minutes for an inspiring view. As one of the surest symbols of NYC strength, the bridge has been an important subject in the works of painters as well as poets like Walt Whitman, Marianne Moore, and Hart Crane. In addition to admiring the city from the bridge, take your kids to explore 85 acres of riverwalk and splendid gardens in Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park also offers a variety of paid activities, including indoor roller skating, kayaking, pickleball, basketball, and soccer.
Roosevelt Island: Walk the boardwalks
The small island protruding from the East River in Manhattan is full of fun evening activities that range from free to paid. In addition to a variety of parks, Roosevelt Island is home to historical landmarks such as the Renwick Ruin (site of a historic smallpox hospital), the Octagon Tower (once an insane asylum), and a beautiful 19th-century lighthouse that offers sweeping views of the city. Other fun activities available on the island include outdoor movie nights, arts festivals, and fireworks. Since boating to the island isn’t an option for everyone, Roosevelt Island provides convenient tramway transportation across the river.
One World Observatory: Experience NYC’s highest vantage point
Located 100 floors up on the tallest building in the city, One World Observatory offers a vantage point of NYC that is hard to top. The full panoramic attraction is designed to let visitors see all of the city and miles and miles into the distance, including one of the finest unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean in the world. Once your kids have taken in thier fill of the view, consider stopping by the onsite restaurant, One Dine Restaurant, for dinner to enjoy the scenic panorama while sampling some of NYC’s finest culinary offerings.
Ride the Ferry: See NYC from the water
Take your kids for a ride on NYC's waterways for free when you hop on the Staten Island Ferry. You can bask in the breathtaking views of the iconic skyline, Statue of Liberty, and bustling harbor as you journey between Manhattan and Staten Island. Once you arrive in Staten Island, venture to the nearby Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden; it’s only five bucks for adults and free for kids. Or, opt for an affordable adventure aboard the NYC Ferry for just $4. You’ll traverse waterfront communities like DUMBO, Williamsburg, Astoria, and Battery Park City along six scenic routes covering over 60 nautical miles throughout the city.
Culture and sophistication: museums and art galleries
New York City has more museums than several entire states combined. All of them are worth visiting and a trip to a museum can be a great way to spend time with your kids. Whether you want to visit a massive art gallery or a smaller museum dedicated to a specific subject or historical identity, you should consider taking your kids to visit the museums in NYC.
Bronx Museum of the Arts
Explore more than,000 works of art by talented creators who are either Bronx-based or of African, Asian, or Latino ancestry. The museum strives to offer opportunities and representation for the community, and especially for youth, through immersion in visual arts, culture, and community. Its striking 2004 addition not only expanded the capacity for programs and outreach, it was awarded the “Excellence in Design” prize by The Art Commission of the City of New York. Admission to the museum is always free, as are all programs and exhibitions.
The Met: Spend your evening admiring works of art
The famed Metropolitan Museum of Art (or the Met, as locals prefer) is a must-see attraction. You can spend a whole day with your kids ogling treasures from any time in history and even stop in for an exhibition-themed lunch at The Eatery or The Met Dining Room. This expansive museum includes two separate collections, making it easy for guests to tailor their visits to their unique interests, or enjoy a shorter visit before the kids get tired. The Met fifth Avenue contains world art and clothing spanning over 5,000 years, with unique riches from Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Oceania. Meanwhile, The Met Cloisters is devoted to European art, architecture, and landscaping from the Medieval period.
The MoMa: Embrace the abstract
The Museum of Modern Art, more commonly known as MoMA, is a unique museum experience challenge your kids’ understanding of art and history. The MoMA hosts a permanent collection of over 200,000 pieces by modern artists from across the globe. In addition, the MoMA regularly hosts guest exhibitions of political and experimental art and their theater screens special events and film festivals. As a multi-faceted cultural institution, the MoMA also hosts speakers and artist talks, so if your family are lovers of modern art, you should keep up-to-date on the MoMA’s calendar of events to find the perfect activity.
The Guggenheim: Admire the art and architecture
One of the most prestigious art museums in America, The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum holds a spectacular collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Modern, and contemporary art including beloved works by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, Matisse, and Picasso. In-person programs teach kids about the artists and works in the museum, and inspire them to create masterpieces of their own. Check out the museum’s contemporary architecture, a design by Frank Lloyd Wright that taps into asymmetry and allows museum-goers to explore art history more unconventionally.
Brooklyn Museum
Nestled on the fringes of Brooklyn's expansive Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum is a local gem brimming with artistic treasures. Brooklyn Museum holds treasures including Egyptian antiquities, renowned feminist works like Judy Chicago's "The Dinner Party, " and masterpieces by Impressionist luminaries such as Cézanne, Monet, and Degas. Its iconic Beaux-Arts façade welcomes your kids into a world of wonder where they can explore exhibitions and collections spanning over 5,000 years of human creativity.
Harbor Defense Museum
Situated within the historic Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, the Harbor Defense Museum offers visitors a journey through the maritime military history of New York Harbor. As the only military museum in New York City, it showcases the strategic significance of coastal defense throughout the nation's history. Your kids will be enthralled by the historic weaponry and uniforms and the interactive displays detailing the evolution of harbor defenses. The museum takes you through the role New York Harbor played, from the Revolutionary War era to modern-day maritime operations, in shaping the nation’s defense strategies.
National Museum of the American Indian
The family-friendly imagiNATIONS Activity Center at the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) engages kids in the ingenious scientific principles behind Native innovations and technologies, many remain a part of our daily lives. While you’re there, explore the famed collections of the Smithsonian Institution, the world’s largest museum complex. NMAI cares for a vast collection of Native artifacts, including objects, photographs, archives, and media from the entire Western Hemisphere. You can purchase genuine Native American merchandise in the museum store or grab a bit to eat at the Mili Kàpi Cafe. Entrance to the museum is always free.
El Museo de Barrio
While you’re exploring New York City's historic Museum Mile, don’t miss El Museo del Barrio. It’s the nation’s leading Latinx and Latin American cultural institution and it’s bursting with Latino art and heritage. Colorful exhibits showcase the richness of Latin American and Caribbean cultures, events celebrate music, dance, and community. El Museo offers programs featuring storytelling and art-making workshops, as well as interactive tours and family days. Admission is pay-what-you-wish, so you everyone can enjoy the feast for the senses.
The Color Factory: Immerse yourself in light and color
Another New York museum that is as much an interactive experience as an art installation, Color Factory features 14 different interactive exhibitions focused on the world of color and light. Explore your own creativity and spontaneity in activities that include a rave-style dance party, an adult sized ball pit, and a synchronicity experiment that will help you become more connected and in sync with other guests. The Color Factory also hosts parties and other gatherings.
Museum of Ice Cream: See the dessert in a whole new light
I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream. What kid doesn’t love everything to do with ice cream? While NYC has no shortage of quiet, respectful museums filled with classical art and covering significant groups and moments in history, it is also home to places like the Museum of Ice Cream. This museum will teach your kids about the history, diversity, and science of ice cream. Plus, they can engage with interactive exhibits and sample ice cream.
Jewish Children’s Museum
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, the Jewish Children's Museum brings Jewish history and culture to life for visitors of all ages. Contemporary technology and hands-on activities relive famous biblical stories and explores Jewish traditions and customs. The Museum serves children of all ages and their families, and is a resource and model, nationally and internationally, for interactive education on Jewish themes. Displays showcase the contributions Jewish individuals have made to various fields, and include a replica of a typical Jewish home, a multimedia exploration of Israel, and engaging workshops on Hebrew calligraphy and traditional crafts. The Jewish Children's Museum fosters understanding and appreciation of Jewish heritage.
The sounds of the city: music and concerts
NYC is the birthplace of some of the most recognizable musical styles and traditions in the US. Jazz was refined in Harlem, Brooklyn is one of the original homes of Hip-Hop, and swing and salsa both owe their creation to the communities of New York. If you want to take your kids to see live music or attend a concert, New York is almost certain to have a venue for you to attend.
The Lincoln Center: See a classical ballet
Resident home of the New York Ballet, Juilliard, the Metropolitan Opera, the New York Philharmonic Orchestra and a half-dozen other performing arts organizations, the Lincoln Center is one of the most significant cultural sites in the city. If you want to expose your kids to a touch of class and sophistication, take them to one of the shows at the Lincoln Center to see live classical music, a historic or modern opera, a play, a ballet, a jazz concert, or a film.
Sporting Events
Cheer for your family’s favorite team at one of the many professional sports arenas all around New York (and a few in New Jersey), home to dozens of professional and amateur-level sports franchises. Whether you want to see a baseball game, a soccer match, or even a lacrosse or rugby match, you’ll be able to find tickets and make an evening out of it.
Madison Square Garden: Catch a Knicks or Rangers game
In addition to being home to some of the biggest concerts in the world, Madison Square Garden is home to the New York Knicks, one of the oldest and most storied franchises in the NBA, as well as the New York Rangers and the Liberty. Thanks to ticket resellers and online deal-hunting sites, it is easier than ever to get tickets to a home game and, even if you aren’t a fan of one of the home teams, you can always scout out the best deal on catching the visiting team you hope to see.
Barclays Center: Watch the Brooklyn Nets
Formally a real New York team since 2012, the Brooklyn Nets are the only professional sports team in the borough and the newest NYC franchise in the four major American sports. Playing at Barclays Center, the Nets have begun to engrain themselves as part of the New York sports tradition and they are quickly becoming one of the city’s darlings. Spend an evening watching them play basketball and take in a new era of NYC sports. Barclays Center also regularly hosts concerts and arena events, so keep an eye out for a variety of options
Baseball: Spend a beautiful evening enjoying a Yankees or Mets Game
New York City is home to two of the most storied and beloved baseball teams in the nation (though the people of Boston and a few other cities might dispute the ‘loved’ part). Between them, they play over 150 games a year in NYC and tickets can be fairly reasonable as a result. Enjoy a beautiful summer evening in the city and get dinner and drinks before (or after) the game to complete a perfect night out on the town.
The New York Red Bulls: Watch the beautiful game
MLS is quickly raising its profile in the US and the New York Red Bulls are among the sports founding franchises. If you are feeling a bit of withdrawal as you wait for the 2026 world cup, you can get your fix by watching some of the players who will represent the US when we host many of the games next time around. These games are an affordable way to watch the world’s game and to experience New York sports at its finest. If you are more of a Man City fan, New York is also home to their feeder team, NYCFC.
Baseball: Cheer on the Brooklyn Cyclones
Remember when baseball was affordable and played just for the fun of it? For the cost of change in your pocket, you can cheer for this single-A minor-league farm team for the New Yrok Mets play at Maimonides Park. Enjoy a beautiful summer evening in the city and grab a hot dog and beer to complete a perfect night out.
Global cuisine: restaurants
New York City is home to approximately 23,000 restaurants, and if you tried to eat at all of them, it would take roughly 25 years. Obviously, this is impossible, so you should consider narrowing your options and trying to find the best eats in NYC that are kid-friendly to boot. Consider these options or explore the best restaurants in NYC in greater detail.
New World Mall
No place offers more family-friendly dining than a food court, and this one is sure to have something to please everyone. Though merchandise abounds in the shops, what this huge Asian mall is really known for is the food. A J Mart Asian supermarket fills two levels, and on the third floor is one of the largest Chinese dim sum restaurants and banquet halls in the Tri-State areas, with a capacity of hosting 1,500 patrons. The sprawling basement food court is one of the famous dining destinations in the neighborhood—known for its diversity of Chinese and other Asian cuisines and its affordability. Slurp some noodle soup, sample dumplings, or try a delicious dry pot.
Astoria Seafood
This family-owned seafood market and restaurant originates from three generations of Greek fish mongers. Owner Spyro Christakos brings his traditional family recipes to freshly prepared dishes. Here, your kids can choose their freshly caught fish, shellfish, and other ocean delicacies and have them cooked to order on the spot. From classic fish and chips to mouthwatering grilled octopus, there's something to satisfy every seafood craving. This seafood buffet is unlike anything else in town.
Katz's Delicatessen: Enjoy an unforgettable pastrami sandwich
Katz Delicatessen is probably the most famous deli in the world and has been operating as a New York fixture since 1888. Your kids might not care about its well-known cameo in When Harry Met Sally, but they’ll perk up when they discover the delicatessen is home to some of the best food in NYC. Stop in for a famous Reuben, some gefilte fish, or Nova Lox (or any of the famous sliced meats that the deli has to offer). No trip to New York is complete without a brief stop over at Katz’s.
New York, New York: live shows and Broadway musicals
New York is famous for its abundance of live shows and events. Home to some of the most famous theaters in the world, no matter whether you want to take your kids to catch a performance of Les Mis or you want to see what is new in the world of theater, you’ll have no shortage of options.
Broadway: Take in a show
Broadway may be the most famous theater district in the world and it has no shortage of renowned theaters and performances to take in while you are in NYC. With 41 theaters to choose from, you are certain to find a performance that fits the mold of your tastes and interests. While Broadway is associated with the musical (for good reason, you can still seeThe Lion King, Hamilton, or CATS) there are also smaller, more traditional productions to check out. Plus, since there are so many theaters, offerings are constantly rotating, so it pays to check frequently.
The Lion King: Learn why it is a Broadway classic
The Lion King, based off of the 1994 Disney film of the same name, is the third longest running and highest grossing Broadway play of all time, having run continuously since 1997. While it wasn’t the first Disney stage musical (that title belongs to Beauty and the The Beast) it set the standard for virtually every musical adaptation to come and is, in no small part, responsible for the success of shows like Beetlejuice, Mean Girls, and Legally Blonde. The show is an unforgettable experience of color, sound and dance and it stands as one of the most iconic Broadway shows of all time. If you can only make it to one show, The Lion King should be high on your list.
Queens Theatre
Queens Theatre hosts family-friendly performances and has a reasonably priced kids' series and birthday-party packages. Situated in the New York State Pavilion designed for the 1964 World’s Fair, the theatre features Broadway-style productions, contemporary plays, dance productions, and music concerts. The venue holds three performance spaces, including a 464-seat main stage, a 99-seat studio theater and a 75-seat cabaret space, for hosting a diverse range of performances. Beyond just stage productions, Queens Theatre hosts educational programs and workshops for aspiring performers.
Revisit past splendor at Kings Theatre
Once one of Brooklyn’s most elegant movie theaters, the Loew’s Kings Theatre opened as a movie and live performance space in 1929. Its opulent interior features an ornate ceiling with sparkling chandeliers, plush velvet seating, and a grand stage that has hosted some of the world's most celebrated films and performers. The theater lost popularity when multiplex cinemas became popular in the 1950s, and it eventually closed in 1977, with the stunning interior falling into disrepair. After an elaborate $95 million restoration, the 3,074-seat theater reopened in 2015 in all its original glory and updated with state-of-the-art sounds and lighting systems. Now you can catch kid favorites like Sesame Street Live! Say Hello and Bluey’s Big Play, along with more adult acts and rising stars.
Take a Theater Tour: Learn the history of Broadway
Fun fact: Only 2 of the 41 theaters that are classified as “Broadway Theaters” are on Broadway. New York’s Theater District is a sprawling space full of classic architecture and amazing theaters that date back to the turn of the 20th century and visiting these spaces can be an exhilarating trip for your kids in its own right. Consider going on a theater tour one evening to visit some of the most interesting and historic performing venues in NYC. Perfect for a way to experience the magic of Broadway without needing to build your schedule around a show.
Shakespeare in The Park: Watch a timeless tragedy
Central Park is home to one of the city’s most enduring cultural traditions, Shakespeare in the Park. This outdoor theater troupe, normally performing in Central Park’s Delacorte Theatre, is taking its shows on the road for the 2025 season, holding performances across the 5 boroughs while the theater is renovated. These performances can range from traditional stagings of classics like Hamletand Othello to more esoteric and creative interpretations, like 2025’s bilingual, musical imagining of A Comedy of Errors. Experience Shakespeare as it was originally performed in these one-of-a-kind theater-going experiences.
Cooking and dessert making classes
Make dinner a family affair by enrolling your kids in a cooking class. Perfect for up-and-coming chefs or just learning a life skill (they’ll thank you later).
Cooking Classes: Make cooking your meal the main event
Do your kids want to learn their way around the kitchen? Consider enrolling them in one of the specialty cooking courses offered in New York City. Whether you want to learn how to make donuts, pasta, or chocolate delights, they’ll master the fundamentals of cooking in this wide array of courses for kids of all ages. Teaching your kids the art of cooking is a great way to teach them important transferable skills and it will help them become more self-sufficient later on in life.
Free and cheap entrance for families
Some of NYC’s best attractions accept discount cards that let you enter for free. Check out these passes for some of the best deals in the city.
Culture Pass: Free admission with your library card
You can visit some of NYC’s most popular attractions for free if you have a library card from the Brooklyn Public Library, Queens Public Library, or New York Public Library (serving the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island). The Culture Pass allows you to reserve free passes to 95+ cultural institutions across NYC. Dozens of organizations participate in Culture Pass, from children’s museums and public gardens to historical societies and heritage centers.
Cool Culture: Family access to cultural partners
Do you have children in preschool or kindergarten? The Cool Culture Family Pass allows participating families free general admission to 90 participating cultural institutions in New York City. To receive a pass, sign up through your child’s school or childcare program that is enrolled with Cool Culture.