The number of family-friendly happenings in New York City on any given day is enough to overwhelm most parents. Our city plays host to top-notch museums and art, creative play spaces, amazing parks and playgrounds, and even amusement parks, all of which pump out fun children’s programming year-round. Even NYC restaurants get into the game, hosting dedicated kid play spaces, events, and cool DIY opportunities like ice-cream and chocolate making.
Yet every year, our kids suddenly grow up on us a little more. They age out of one activity after another, whether it’s storytime at the library, the carousel, or just needing to hold our hand as they cross the street. That’s why we’re focused on finding ways to take advantage of all the amazing things to do in New York City with kids, creating meaningful memories as we go. I created this “life list” of all the things I want to experience with my kids before they grow up. It’s not just the stuff that is fun to do, but also the stuff that I think will be important to do with them—things that will shape them and be formative in their experience as little New Yorkers. We’re also big fans of FREE fun, so we included as much of that as possible!
So enjoy this list of 100 things to do in NYC, whether you’re a local or a visitor trying to experience the very best of our city. Now, off I go to wring every drop of goodness from that damp, dirty rag that is New York City.
1. Sleep over at the Bronx Zoo.
2. Get geeky at the NY Hall of Science.
3. March in the Mermaid Parade.
4. Take a helicopter ride.
5. Catch a free concert by the Metropolitan Opera in a NYC park.