Best of 44 Educational sites in NYC

Home to the largest and possibly most fabulous collection of dinosaur fossils in the world, the AMNH's fourth-floor dinosaur rooms have been wowing children for decades. Don't miss other great opportunities to see artifacts, models, and casts from centuries past, including the Hall of Human Origins and the Hall of Ocean Life, which features the museum's iconic 100-foot-long blue whale model. You'll also want to explore the Rose Center for Earth & Space if you like space-themed fun: the Hayden Planetarium and the Big Bang Theater feature 3-D and IMAX screenings.
Regarding the museum's highlights (especially family-friendly) and what people should expect to see, Brad told us, “The most popular feature for first-time kids visiting would have to be the dinosaur rooms on the fourth floor.” , now even more popular with the recent addition of the 122-foot-long titanosaur. The Museum's 45 permanent exhibition rooms offer a "field guide" to the natural world and global cultures, while special temporary exhibitions and topical films presented at the Museum appeal to all ages and each will make visitors “Young people leave with a closer connection to the wonders of our natural world.”

This encyclopedia of human civilization is one of the world's most important museums, a sprawling complex where the whole family could spend an entire day browsing the galleries and see just a fraction of what's on display. Head to the Egyptian wing to see mummies and an intact temple, then go to the armory to see the knights, stroll through a reconstructed Frank Lloyd Wright house, spend time in a Renaissance library, marvel at the gold treasures of the Mayans, walk around a marble portrait of Alexander the Great... and then see if you have time to climb to the second floor. Children's workshops help introduce little ones to different types of art, and the museum organizes family days throughout the year.
The Metropolitan Museum, also known as The Met, is a world-renowned museum and for those looking for top educational attractions in New York, it should definitely be on your bucket list. Presenting visitors with more than 5,000 years of art from around the world, The Met is such a gigantic experience that the museum must be located in three different locations (The Met Fifth Avenue, The Met Breuer, and The Met Cloisters).

MoMA reopened after an extensive renovation in late 2019 and the iconic museum has never looked better. The expanded galleries include two art studios: one for younger children and another for older children and their artistic parents. The museum's rich family programming covers a wide age range and includes children's tours, children's movies and other events. Check the museum's website for the latest information.
Home to the best collection of modern and contemporary art in the world, the Museum of Modern Art, also known as MoMA, is a must-see for anyone interested in this field. This multi-level museum in Manhattan wows visitors with cutting-edge contemporary works and modern wonders from icons like Edward Hopper and René Magritte. While visitors should certainly expect large crowds at MoMA, the large installations and exhibitions are well worth the hustle and bustle.

After a date at this renovated Queens hotspot, you'll feel good about your kids' screen time. The cinema and gallery present works that will appeal to both technology experts and film buffs. From screenings and hands-on activities to birthday parties and video game events and festivals, the museum keeps visitors curious about what goes on behind the scenes.
Located on the historic 13-acre grounds that were once part of the Kaufman Astoria Studios, the Museum of the Moving Image is a must-see attraction for anyone who loves film, and especially those who want to learn more about it. The museum's goal is to help visitors understand and enjoy the history and art of film and television, doing so with unique exhibits, interpretive programs, and its significant collection of moving image artifacts.

Who said public transportation can't be fun? Yes, Grand Central may be a huge train crossing, but it's also a wonderful playground. Not only are there plenty (and we're talking plenty) of places to satisfy any food craving, but there's also a tennis court accessible via elevator up the Oyster Bar ramp. John McEnroe and the Williams sisters have played on the main court and there is a junior court for budding tennis stars. While you're in the vicinity of the Oyster Bar, you should try the famous Whispering Gallery, whose ceramic-tiled arches allow you to chat quietly with a friend across the concourse.

Image credit: Home Museum

The iconic American symbol, a gift from the French created by artist Frédéric Barthold, is one of the most iconic sculptures in the world. Visiting Lady Liberty recently became much more enjoyable thanks to a new 26,000-square-foot museum. Begin your journey with a trip back in time inside the Immersive Theatre, where you can observe the evolution of New York, beginning with the arrival of the statue in the 19th century. Next, the Engagement Gallery allows little ones to measure themselves next to a life-size replica of Lady Liberty's foot and pose at the Becoming Liberty station. The Inspiration Gallery offers an up-close look at the historic statue's original torch, while Liberty Vista, a green roof just above, offers swoon-worthy views.

Two enormous lions, nicknamed Patience and Fortitude, flank the main portal of the century-old NYPL main branch and have become the institution's mascots and a privileged place for a family photograph. This marble palace of learning is a walker's delight. Be sure to head upstairs to the enormous wood-paneled Rose Reading Room (as seen in Ghostbusters), then head to the children's room, where you'll find a display case containing Christopher Robin Milne's original vintage stuffed animals, the inspiration. behind his father's Winnie the Pooh books. It turns out that Pooh's corner is Fifth Avenue and West 42nd Street.

This exciting exhibition explores the story of New York's dramatic transformation from a Dutch settlement to all the challenges and opportunities facing the city today and in the future. This exhibit contains an incredible amount of history and impressively sums up what New York is all about. Featuring nearly 450 historic objects and images, high-tech maps, multimedia installations and more, visitors can interact with New York's past and present like never before.

Nothing represents New York City better than the Empire State Building. When it was completed in 1931, the towering skyscraper was the tallest in the world at 1,454 feet. Even more surprising: its construction took less than a year. The views are just as incredible. Take the family to the 86th floor for a panoramic view of the city – the photo opportunities are truly impressive! About ten years ago, the building's lobby was restored to its original Art Deco design and now the newly renovated Observatory has transformed the experience of reaching the top.

Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum was founded in 1897 and is the only museum in the United States that has been dedicated entirely to the field of historical and contemporary design. Cooper Hewitt, in his renovated and restored Carnegie Mansion, houses one of the largest and most complete collections of design works in the world. Regarding what visitors can expect to enjoy at the museum, Cooper Hewitt told us:

Comfortable shoes? Check! Energy bags? Check! These are two absolutely essential items you'll need before exploring the sprawling 843 acres that make up Central Park. It's not even possible to do it all in one day, but you can try. Choose the activities on your website in advance and set the course for fun. We recommend heading straight for the two 45-foot slides at Billy Johnson Playground, Pilgrim Hill for the best winter sledding, and the outdoor movies and performances are simply magical, so don't miss any if the time is right.

Regarding the details of what visitors can expect to see, City Reliquary explained: “The City Reliquary is a cabinet of curiosities that tells of the people, personalities and stories that make New York City great. Visitors will have the opportunity to view items such as New York World's Fair memorabilia, a collection of mineral water bottles, the original 2nd Ave Deli sign, tributes to New York installations Jackie Robinson and Little Egypt, and a massive collection of Statues of Liberty, among others. many other things. “These elements work together to tell the rich story of New York.”

FAO is 30 Rock's beloved toy store and its endless stacks of empty red bags won't fill themselves! From stuffed animals and board games to dolls and STEM products, the selection is nothing short of generous. Everyone interested will find something they like, but perhaps the most appealing thing about the store is the extra step it takes to make the experience interactive. Not only will kids be able to find a furry friend or get a new model, but they'll also be able to enjoy hands-on activities (some of which are free) that will spark some imagination and joy. Look out for magic tricks, science experiments, spa treatments, and of course, don't forget to play the big piano dance mat.

The magnificent Jane's Carousel, located inside a glass studio, lights up as the Brooklyn Bridge and the downtown New York skyline hang in the background. Undoubtedly a great place to take some selfies and spin around on the horses and carriages, this spot proves to be one of the most beloved facets of Brooklyn Bridge Park. With its undeniable old-school charm, there's no reason to give up a ride. After all, talented Kings County artist Jane Wale, who spent more than 20 years restoring the carousel to pristine condition, deserves a little recognition for her feat. Even better? This popular kid-friendly spot is located near Time Out Market New York, where you can enjoy the best of New York cuisine under one roof. Score!

The New York Botanical Garden is a feast for the eyes with beautiful flowers that are sure to inspire any urban gardener. Although it may seem like a summer outing, the garden's annual events, like Boo at the Zoo and the Holiday Train Show, make the Bronx attraction a must-see during the colder months. (It's definitely a party hotspot.) Naturally, you'll want to stay when spring arrives, as the Orchid Show is one of the most anticipated events in all of New York. Kids will love getting their hands dirty at Everett Children's Adventure Garden and Edible Academy, giving little naturalists the chance to experience nature in the middle of New York.

American Girl's Rockefeller retail space is every little lady's dream. The 40,000-foot store spans two levels and offers some pretty amazing features, including a salon where kids can get a haircut at the same time as their favorite doll. A dedicated studio allows children to personalize dolls with their own designs and a multimedia studio offers instructional classes as well as health and wellness activities. If your kids are absolute American Girl fans, why not host their next birthday party here? The store offers private party rooms with themed packages, projection equipment and other features that will make your child's next event the talk of the playground.

BAM offers a wealth of spectacular programming throughout the year, including theatre, dance, opera, film events and family-specific opportunities. If you check out the Education page, you'll find interesting classes that offer an introduction to animation and digital art, as well as interesting theater and improv options. BAM also runs summer youth programs if your little ones are restless during the warmer months.

If your kids' (or yours) favorite movies are nautical numbers like Finding Nemo, The Little Mermaid, and The Shark's Tale, then don't waste your time booking a ride on the SeaGlass Carousel. This glittering, spinning wonder is housed in a clamshell-shaped structure located in Battery Park. As you get closer, you'll be able to see luminescent marine life dancing through the tall windows as if you were in a fish tank. Enter and you can hop on one of the fish for a ride 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. It's also eminently Instagrammable, so cameras at the ready.

Hop aboard the ferry to Staten Island for this time-traveling day trip. The Town, also known as the Staten Island Historical Society since 1856, invites you to relive the borough's history through a variety of family-friendly activities. From traditional county fairs and homemade breakfasts to seasonal pumpkin picking and candlelit evening tours, there's something for everyone. Wander around four different sites (think: huge museum) to see costumed farmers and various craftspeople, and visit Toys! to see what children played with back in the 19th century.

Give your kids a hands-on experience with science, art, and even cooking at the Staten Island Children's Museum, where they are encouraged to learn through play. The venue offers a Big Games section where youngsters will try out huge versions of dominoes, bowling, Connect Four and checkers, as well as a Green Living Room play area where kids can play house and learn about energy efficiency in the process. . We especially love the outdoor Sea of ​​Boats, where families can try out Morse code, play in the water, and go "fishing" and "oyster hunting."

Originally built for the 1964 World's Fair, the Queens institution demystifies its theme through colorful permanent hands-on exhibits like "Connected Worlds" or "Happiness Experiment." In the summer, kids can burn off excess energy and learn a thing or two. —at the outdoor science playground or play a game of mini golf under the shadow of two retired NASA rockets. And in non-pandemic times, NYSCI also offers sleepovers on select dates, so start packing those go bags!

Venture to Governors Island (open May through October), where there is plenty to see, do and enjoy with the family. Take a ferry from Manhattan or Brooklyn to explore 172 acres by bike (there are more than five miles of bike lanes and rentals are easy to find at Blazing Saddles, Colonels Row), or head to places like Hammock Grove to kick back and relax on one. of 50 hammocks or climb a nearby play structure. Governors Island Hills opened in 2016 and offers heights of 70 feet above sea level (amazing views!), plus four massive slides, including the longest slide in New York. Hungry? There are plenty of food trucks located on the island so you can grab a snack, but we recommend bringing a picnic just for the experience.

With its grand 50-foot-tall concave entrance overlooking the iconic Grand Army Plaza arch, this library's central branch is even grander on the inside. Little ones will enjoy weekly storytimes and morning shows in a cozy kids-only area (with stroller parking), while older techies can hang out in the loft with computers for a variety of activities. After watching a reading or live talk, grab a bagel at Emma's Torch, the hotel's café.

You have to get through the solid wall of humanity that crowds 42nd Street to get to the New Vic, but what's inside is well worth the effort. This gem of a theater was built in 1900 by Oscar Hammerstein and became one of the best showcases for children's theater in New York. Each season brings a full slate of wonderful acts from around the world: Chinese circuses, Shakespearean comedies, French puppets and acrobats. Performers often lead families in workshops before the show, then happily greet the audience and sign programs. Best of all, tickets cost a fraction of what you'd pay for other shows on the same block.

You'll be curious to see what blooms all year round at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Regardless of the season, the attraction features exciting annual events that share a place on every New Yorker's calendar. Welcome spring with a celebration of Sakura Matsuri, the cherry blossom festival. You'll be glad you stayed when the air turns crisp, as fall in the five boroughs is incomplete without the Chile Pepper and Ghouls & Gourds festivals.

While famous for its skyscrapers, subways, and busy streets, New York also boasts serene and rustic landscapes. You just need to know where to look. The Queens County Agricultural Museum, considered the oldest continuously farmed land in Gotham, dates back to the late 17th century and is home to 47 acres of land. Visitors can enjoy on-site petting zoos, annual fall festivals like the beloved Pumpkin Maze, and the April Blossom Children's Carnival. There is much to learn and many events that will keep the whole family entertained, no matter the time of year.

We have many bridges in New York, but for inspiration and beauty, none can compare to the majestic double arches of the Brooklyn Bridge. On a sunny day, the pedestrian walkway is the perfect stretch for a family walk, about a mile of magnificent views of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and Ellis Island. If you start on the Manhattan side, you'll end up at Brooklyn Bridge Park. Your family will fall in love with the city again from a unique point of view. Enter via Cadman Plaza East near Prospect St, Dumbo, Brooklyn or via Center St, just south of Chambers St in Manhattan.

The Empire State Building's 86th-floor observatory may be the city's original place to enjoy an eagle's view of New York, but at 70 stories high, the observation deck at Rockefeller Center's Top of the Rock offers a view spectacular Central. Park without the crazy lines. After you've taken in the unobstructed panoramic views, put some quarters in the coin-operated binoculars, and snapped some family photos, take the elevators to the building's underground shopping center for a bite to eat.

Before the old train track that now forms the High Line was built, it ran at ground level. But so many people were injured (often fatally) by passing freight trains that the state agreed to elevate the railroad. It eventually closed in the 1980s due to lack of demand and in 2009 was transformed into a lush green walkway, dotted with art installations, sunbathing benches, and more that New Yorkers can take advantage of today. Walk the entire length, from Gansevoort Street to W 34th, and enjoy nature and stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. Depending on the season, various activities for children and families emerge, including dance, art, music, gardening and stargazing.

A massive renovation in 2011 not only made this UWS institution's exhibits more interactive, but also introduced the city's children to the DiMenna Children's History Museum. The space, which occupies 4,000 square feet on the Historical Society's lower level, is the ideal place for young history buffs to gain knowledge about their city through hands-on exhibits and more family programs than we can count. The N-YHS permanent collection, much of which can be seen in the open storage galleries on the fourth floor, offers children a glimpse into everyday urban life, with items such as antique toys.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is a world unto itself, or more accurately, is the Unisphere, its enduring icon, the giant steel globe created for the 1964 World's Fair. But there's also world-class culture and sports at the New York Hall of Science, Arthur Ashe Stadium, the Queens Museum of Art and Citi Field. The green, rolling fields also include a zoo, carousel, boat lake, skate park, barbecue area, playing fields, and an aquatic and hockey center. The area's all-children's play area, built in 1984, was designed to accommodate children with and without disabilities, the first of its kind in the country.

Take them to the ball game! In addition to hosting the namesake team, Yankee Stadium also hosts children's activities and family-themed events. Soak up team history at the museum (signed balls, old jerseys) and enjoy the game while your new favorite players hit home runs. Oh! And it would be wise to pick up some snacks during your visit. (Might we suggest the striped vanilla milkshake?)

The Cloisters are one of the city's treasures. Located in a beautiful park overlooking the Hudson River, Cloisters is home to the Met's collections of medieval art and architecture, but the building itself is half the appeal. A path winds through this quiet terrain until you reach a castle that seems to have survived the Middle Ages. It was actually built less than 100 years ago with material from medieval cloisters, but it looks old. Check out the famous Unicorn Tapestries (are unicorns real? Discuss) and visit the lushly planted gardens.

The highlight of the aircraft carrier-turned-science museum for little ones is the Exploreum, an indoor activity area where kids can climb aboard small boats, learn why huge metal ships don't sink, and wander through the living quarters. of the old Intrepid. crew and try on astronaut gloves. On the flight deck, be sure to enter the Space Pavilion, where kids will come face-to-face with the Enterprise, the first space shuttle to take off. As you climb the elevated observation deck to the nose of the shuttle, you'll even get a rare glimpse into the life of an astronaut and how confined their living quarters are when in orbit.

Located behind the New York Public Library is Bryant Park, a well-cultivated retreat that hosts a dizzying schedule of free entertainment during the summer, including popular outdoor movies on Monday nights. The park offers weekly programming for children, such as storytime in the reading room and social games in the 40th Street Plaza. Little ones interested in the circus can get a free lesson from Bryant Park Jugglers on the Lawn or Upper Terrace. Families can take a spin on Le Carrousel, which features 14 different animals to ride. In winter, the park transforms into a wonderland where you can find an ice skating rink and pop-up holiday shops.

One World Observatory at the World Trade Center allows visitors to experience panoramic views of New York from the top of the tallest building in the United States. Kids will love getting to their destination Jetsons-style via the Sky Pod elevators (some of the fastest in the world), which lead to a two-minute video presentation of gorgeous images of the city on the 102nd floor. Check out City Pulse on the 100th floor, showing HD videos of notable New York locations and neighborhoods; Then, daring kids (and their parents) can brave the Sky Portal, where a 14-foot-wide circular disk offers a real-time, high-definition view. Definition images of the streets below.

Once nothing more than industrial land, Brooklyn Bridge Park has been transformed into one of the city's most beautiful waterfront destinations. With stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and downtown Brooklyn neighborhoods, the park is as picturesque as it is entertaining. A variety of playgrounds, splash pads, educational programs, events and food vendors make the park a favorite for all ages. Don't forget to stop by Time Out Market New York when you're done exploring the grounds.

Instead of being a place to learn mathematics, the museum near Madison Square Park is a place to realize all the extraordinary things that can be created with mathematics. Its more than 30 interactive exhibits include the Wall of Fire Theorem, a laser “wall” that shows you that cross sections aren't always what you think they are; Math Square, a Jumbotron on the ground that connects each person on it by the shortest possible path, changing when someone moves; and a studio where children can create a 3D design on a screen, for the opportunity to turn it into a real sculpture using a 3D printer. Most important of all, the museum appeals to children's sense of fun, their innate curiosity about the world around them, and their penchant for discovery.

Are you worried that the Met or the Guggenheim are too advanced for your little Picasso? Then, let your kids' creativity run wild at an institution strictly dedicated to budding artists. The Children's Museum of Manhattan is home to five floors of family-friendly fun, including interactive exhibits, workshop space, and birthday party fun. Little customers will learn about a wide variety of topics, such as nutrition and dance, try craft projects, enjoy fun story time with friends and much more.

The surroundings of Madame Tussauds may make you believe that you are near the Hollywood Walk of Fame instead of Midtown Manhattan. The Times Square attraction tends to leave its visitors dazzled thanks to the realistic wax figures it contains. Those who can't tear themselves away from reality TV will enjoy an encounter with stars like Kylie Jenner, while those obsessed with royalty will have the chance to rub shoulders with the likes of Meghan Markle and the Duchess of Cambridge. Don't forget to sing along to your favorite songs through the Play Your Part experience, a can't-miss attraction that actors of all ages will love to explore.

During Hurricane Sandy, much of South Street Seaport was destroyed, but it bounced back strongly with the reopening of the South Street Seaport Museum, five historic ships to visit at Pier 16, and many local restaurants and shops for snacks and strolls. Be sure to visit during the winter, now that it has become a vacation spot with an ice rink and other fun seasonal amenities.

Learn everything you wanted to know about the borough and more at this Prospect Heights cultural hub. Peek into the windows of old farmhouses to see how the neighborhood people lived, or sneak up next to mummies and other ancient artifacts from a bygone Egyptian life. When little legs start to tire, take a coffee and cookie break next to the Steinberg Family Sculpture Garden, then take some time to peruse the delights in the gift shop (a must-see on every museum visit). .

When it was founded in 1899, the Brooklyn Children's Museum was the first museum in the country created specifically for children (it's no surprise that Kings County started the trend). Today it is one of the most complete children's attractions, with a huge permanent collection that includes musical instruments, masks, dolls, fossils and even an ecological building design. Kids have fun while enjoying interactive exhibits like World Brooklyn, a tiny cityscape lined with fake stores where kids can weigh ingredients and knead imaginary dough at Mexican Bakery, or buy cans of Indian ghee and Turkish sweets at International Grocery Store. Neighborhood Nature, another exhibit in the permanent collection, helps little ones learn about the many creatures and habitats found in their own Brooklyn backyard.