New York City
Explore The Big Apple!
New York City offers a wealth of kid and family-friendly activities. Remember to follow The People's Dad on social media for weekly updated lists of family friendly activities around the greater New York City metropolitan area.
Museums and Cultural Institutions
1. American Museum of Natural History: Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, this iconic museum features dinosaur fossils, a planetarium, and numerous interactive exhibits.
2. Children's Museum of Manhattan: Perfect for younger kids, this museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
3. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Explore an aircraft carrier, a submarine, and a space shuttle. It’s a great spot for kids interested in history and technology.
Educational and Fun Centers
1. Liberty Science Center: Located in Jersey City, NJ, it features interactive exhibits, an IMAX theater, and a planetarium.
2. New York Hall of Science: Located in Queens, it offers over 450 exhibits, workshops, and activities.
3. Staten Island Children’s Museum: Located in Snug Harbor Cultural Center, it offers interactive exhibits and creative workshops.
Zoos and Aquariums
1. Bronx Zoo: One of the largest zoos in the world, it offers an array of animal exhibits, a children's zoo, and seasonal events.
2. Central Park Zoo: A smaller but charming zoo right in the heart of Manhattan.
3. New York Aquarium: Located in Coney Island, Brooklyn, it’s perfect for marine life enthusiasts.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
1. Central Park: With playgrounds, a zoo, boating, and plenty of open space, Central Park is a must-visit.
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park: Offers stunning views of Manhattan, playgrounds, and piers for fishing.
3. Prospect Park: Brooklyn's largest park features a zoo, a carousel, and plenty of space for picnics and sports.
Amusement Parks and Entertainment
1. Coney Island: Known for its historic amusement park, Luna Park, and the famous Cyclone roller coaster, plus the beach and boardwalk.
2. LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in Yonkers, this indoor attraction offers LEGO-themed rides, a 4D cinema, and building workshops.
3. American Dream: This mega-mall in East Rutherford, New Jersey, features Nickelodeon Universe, an indoor theme park, and DreamWorks Water Park.
Beaches and Nature Reserves
1. Jones Beach State Park: Located in Long Island, it offers a family-friendly beach, boardwalk, and picnic areas.
2. Fire Island National Seashore: Accessible via ferry from Long Island, it provides pristine beaches and nature trails.
3. Wave Hill: A public garden and cultural center in the Bronx with stunning views of the Hudson River, perfect for nature walks and picnics.
Seasonal and Special Events
1. Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden: A winter favorite featuring model trains and replicas of NYC landmarks made from plant materials.
2. Halloween Harvest at Luna Park: Seasonal events and activities, including pumpkin picking and themed rides.
3. Summer Outdoor Movies: Various parks across the city host free movie nights, perfect for family picnics.
These activities provide a mix of educational, recreational, and fun experiences suitable for families with children of all ages.