When it comes to bringing the family to New York City, there is no shortage of great outdoor activities for families and kids of all ages! From gardens and playgrounds to amusement parks, animal adventures and water-based activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy outside! Thanks to the Playbill Partner Hotels Booking Engine, here are five great family activities we recommend!
Explore the Central Park Zoo
Nestled quaintly in Manhattan’s best-known green-space, Central Park, the Central Park Zoo is home to some of the city’s most unique (and furry) views. There are over 130 different animal species that guests of all ages can discover and witness, from grizzly bears to snow leopards, even leaf-cutter ants. The zoo is part of an effort to save wildlife that began 120 years ago with the creation of the New York Zoological Society—an organization founded on science and hope which has since grown to become the Wildlife Conservation Society. The Society's staff works extensively on conservation programs for dozens of the world’s rarest waterfowl and tropical birds. A perfect half-day activity for families with younger kids and right off the subway, the Central Park Zoo is a great option for an activity day in Manhattan!
Take a Ride On a Carousel!
New York City has no shortage of historic (and notable) carousels located throughout this great city. Hitching a ride on a classic horse, sleigh, or even an undersea grotto, can create magical memories for all. Our top five carousels for a fun ride include the Central Park Carousel, Bryant Park Carousel, Pier 62 Carousel at Hudson River Park, Jane’s Carousel (iconic as it is in the glass building in Brooklyn Bridge Park) and the world famous SeaGlass Carousel (a must if you are spending the day in Battery Park). Your child at heart will be at the forefront in this timeless outdoor tradition.
Play at Imagination Playground at South Street Seaport
Located at Burling Slip, which is part of South Street Seaport in lower Manhattan, Imagination Playground is a must for children and families to experience. Described as “an interactive, transformable space that prompts children to manipulate their environment and create a play space of their own with sand, water and loose parts,” the playground is based on progressive ideas of childhood development, thus allowing children to build their own fun. Designed by famed architect (and Tony Award winner) David Rockwell, kids can “play the day away” at one of the best playgrounds in America. Plus, for the moms, dads and adults, you are only steps away from exciting dining, shopping, live events (and ice cream!) at The Seaport.
Go Head-Over-Heels at Luna Park at Coney Island
I am always a kid-at-heart when I go to Luna Park. Riding the iconic Cyclone roller coaster brings back nostalgia of yesteryear, while newer rides swing, twirl, and excite family members of all ages. Over three blocks of oceanfront property with dozens of attractions, Luna Park is just a short subway or car ride from Manhattan and a great day of fun. Sorry, theatre fans, there is no “tunnel of love”—but with numerous restaurants (the original Nathan’s hot dogs is only steps away), games, shops and more, we highly recommend a day at this historical (and fun) beachfront park!
And, right next to Luna Park, families can also explore the New York Aquarium—the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States with over 350 species of aquatic wildlife!
All Aboard, the Staten Island Ferry!
The Staten Island Ferry is a free, public ferry service connecting Manhattan and Staten Island in New York City. It operates around the clock, 365 days a year, and offers a scenic ride across New York Harbor. You will get close to The Statue of Liberty, view the historic Governors Island (another place we recommend with its own ferry service!), and have an incredible journey on NYC’s waterway! And what’s also fun? If you head to Staten Island, when you disembark at St. George Terminal, you’re right next to the National Lighthouse Museum, or for shopping fans, Empire Outlets!
There are many additional activities we recommend outdoors (and indoors), hotels to stay at, Broadway shows to see, and world-class dining! Keep checking back monthly as we continue sharing things to do in NYC (and London)!
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