New York City has something for every visitor to enjoy, no matter how old they are. While most activities might seem like they’re geared towards adults, there’s plenty of fun for kids to enjoy as well. There are always opportunities for them to learn, get active and explore the magic of the Big Apple for the first time. Some activities are aimed at kids, while others allow the entire family to join the fun. Check out some of these kid-friendly places in all five boroughs of NYC that will have the kids begging to come back for more.
Kid-Friendly in New York City
Spyscape
One of the more recent additions to the city’s unique attractions is Spyscape near Columbus Circle. This interactive museum teaches visitors all about what it takes to be a spy. Kids can participate in activities that real spies face every day, such as codebreaking, facing a lie detector test and having to move through a hall of laser beams. Alongside the tests, they can also find the technology used on actual spy cases on display to showcase different spies across history. At the end of the visit, kids can find out just what type of spy they are, thanks to their “Spychology” profiles.
LeFrak Center
If you’re looking for some outdoor fun that the whole family can enjoy, visit LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park in Brooklyn. This outdoor recreational center has several different ways for kids to enjoy a sunny city day. The warmer months are the best times to explore it, as their outdoor roller rink is the highlight of the center. If you’re looking to cool down, rent a bike or boat to ride around the rest of the park. Kids can also enjoy splashing around in their Splash Pad, a water play area that allows them to soak up the sun. Finish off the day with a quick bite at Bluestone Cafe, and this is one city afternoon that kids won’t soon forget.
Queens County Farm Museum
For outdoor fun away from the skyscrapers and bustling city life, take a walk on the wild side to Queens County Farm Museum. This farm in Queens feels like a world set apart from the rest of the city, as it’s a true farm filled with animals for kids to meet. There are daily activities on the property that kids can enjoy, such as hayrides, scavenger hunts and a tour of the farmhouse. There’s always a chance to learn about farm life thanks to their educational programs about beekeeping, composting and more. The holidays are a prime time to visit the farm, as they offer dance celebrations and a massive corn maze that gives visitors a taste of farm life in the city.
FAO Schwarz
While Toys ‘R’ Us in Times Square isn’t open anymore, kids still have the opportunity to experience the largest toy store in the city, thanks to FAO Schwarz. Located at Rockefeller Center, this classic toy store has been a city staple for years and recently reopened in a new location in the Diamond District. Kids may recognize it for the giant floor piano Tom Hanks danced on in “Big,” and it’s still there for them to try themselves! The store is also known for its massive stuffed animals, and toy soldier imagery throughout the space, and kids can find every toy they can think of under one roof.
Staten Island Ferry
Kids can see the entire city in one place when they take a ride on the Staten Island Ferry. The ferry is one of the oldest in the Big Apple and pulls out from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island throughout the day. Passengers can take a short ride through New York Harbor and be up close to famous landmarks throughout the voyage, like the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Kids can’t get enough of this ferry ride, as it shows them just how big the city truly is. The view of the city skyline and the chance to ride the waves make this trip one that’s sure to thrill riders of all ages.
Coney Island
If you’re looking for a day outside of Manhattan with the family, make the trip out to Coney Island. With tons of amusement parks, fun eats and stretches of sand for sunbathing; you’re sure to have a wonderful day out with the kids. We’ve got a comprehensive guide to all of the fun amusement parks, beaches and some fun eats for you here. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re in the mood for thrills or relaxation.
Madame Tussauds New York
New York City can make anyone feel like a star, but kids have the opportunity to meet them at Madame Tussauds New York. This museum in Times Square is known for its lifelike wax figures of famous faces that span several floors and themed rooms. Kids have the chance to stand beside some of their favorite actors, singers and even historical figures and snag a picture with them. There’s even the chance to meet a superhero, thanks to their Marvel exhibit that comes with a 4-D movie experience. Their rotation of figures is always changing, so kids can have the chance to meet someone new with each visit.
