25 Great Indoor Activities For Kids in NYC ( … The Best Kept Secret Of Cool Moms)

Living in a bustling city like New York, it’s important to have a repertoire of indoor activities for kids in NYC. Not only do these activities keep our children engaged and entertained, but they also provide a much-needed break from the daily routine and promote their development in various areas.

As a parent navigating the city with my own kids, I understand the struggle of finding the perfect indoor activities for kids in NYC. They are not only enjoyable but also provide a safe and engaging environment for our little ones.

That’s why I am thrilled to share with you some of the best indoor activities for kids in NYC that have brought endless joy to my own family.

Fun Indoor Activities For Kids in NYC

In this article, we will uncover 25 different indoor activities that cater to children of all ages and interests. Whether your child loves science, art, or simply letting their imagination run wild, we have got you covered.

So, grab your coats and get ready to dive into the vibrant world of indoor activities for kids in NYC that never sleeps. Let’s embark on a journey of discovery and fun together. Keep reading to find out more!

1. Discovery Times Square

Uncover the secrets of history, science, and pop culture through immersive exhibits and interactive experiences at Discovery Times Square.

2. Children’s Museum of Manhattan

Head over to the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, where your kids can explore multiple interactive exhibits focusing on art, music, science, and even New York City history. It’s a fantastic place to stimulate their creativity, curiosity, and imagination.

3. New York Aquarium

Immerse yourself in underwater wonders at the New York Aquarium, where kids can marvel at colorful fish, playful penguins, and enchanting marine life.

4. New York Hall of Science

Take your little scientists to the New York Hall of Science in Queens. This hands-on museum features hundreds of exhibits that cover topics like physics, biology, and technology. From interactive displays to live demonstrations, it’s an immersive experience that will leave your kids buzzing with excitement and a thirst for knowledge.

5. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Venture to the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, the first museum in the United States exclusively designed for children. With an array of exhibits focused on culture, science, and the arts, this museum offers engaging activities for kids in NYC. Your little ones will have a blast exploring and discovering new things at every turn.

6. Chelsea Piers

If your kids have boundless energy to burn, Chelsea Piers is the place to be. This massive sports complex on the Hudson River offers a range of indoor activities, including ice skating, rock climbing, gymnastics, and a field house with turf fields for soccer and other sports. It’s an action-packed destination for kids who love sports and active play.

7. The Art Farm in the City

If your child is an animal lover, The Art Farm in the City is a must-visit. This unique indoor petting zoo allows kids to interact with friendly animals, including rabbits, turtles, chinchillas, and more. They also offer arts and crafts workshops, cooking classes, and music sessions, keeping your little ones engaged and entertained.

8. CMA’s Free Art Fridays

The Children’s Museum of the Arts offers Free Art Fridays, where kids can get creative and explore various art mediums. From painting and sculpture to digital media, your budding artist can unleash their imagination under the guidance of professional artists. Best of all, it’s free!

9. The LEGO® Store

Located at Rockefeller Center, the LEGO® Store is a dream come true for LEGO® enthusiasts. Bring your kids to browse through their impressive selection of LEGO® sets and participate in their monthly Mini Model Build events. Trust us; it’s a LEGO® lover’s paradise!

10. American Museum of Natural History

Explore the wonders of the American Museum of Natural History, where your kids can encounter stunning dinosaur exhibits, learn about space at the planetarium, and journey through the vast universe of science and history. It’s a fantastic way to ignite their curiosity about the world around them.

11. The Paley Center for Media

For the little television and movie enthusiasts in your family, the Paley Center for Media is a fabulous destination. They can watch classic cartoons, discover behind-the-scenes tidbits, and even try their hand at being a news anchor. It’s an interactive and educational experience that showcases the evolution of media.

12. Brooklyn Boulders

If your kids are thrill-seekers and up for a challenge, head to Brooklyn Boulders. This indoor rock climbing facility offers climbing walls suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether they’re beginners or experienced climbers, they’ll have a blast scaling the walls and conquering new heights.

13. TRIBECA Play

TRIBECA Play is an indoor playground and party center in Tribeca, offering a safe and vibrant space for kids to play, socialize, and learn. Their multi-level play structures, slides, ball pits, and sensory areas will keep your little ones entertained for hours.

14. The Transit Museum

All aboard! Hop on the subway and take a trip to the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn. This interactive museum showcases the history of public transportation in NYC through exhibits, vintage subway cars, and even a simulated ride around a mini subway track. It’s a unique way to learn about the city’s transportation system while having a blast!

15. CMA’s WEE Arts Club

The Children’s Museum of the Arts offers the WEE Arts Club, a weekly drop-in program for kids aged 5 and under. It provides a nurturing environment for children to engage in playful art-making experiences, including painting, sculpture, and storytelling.

16. ShapeShifter Lab

Tap into your child’s musical talents at ShapeShifter Lab, a music and arts center in Brooklyn. They offer various classes and workshops where kids can experiment with different instruments, vocals, and music genres. It’s a great place for your little ones to explore their musical interests and potential.

17. Kidville

Kidville is a premier children’s enrichment center with multiple locations across NYC. They offer a range of classes, including music, dance, gym, and art, specifically designed for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. It’s an ideal spot for your child to engage in structured play and learning activities.

18. Bounce! Trampoline Sports

Let your kids bounce off that excess energy at Bounce! Trampoline Sports. With wall-to-wall trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits, and basketball hoops, this indoor trampoline park is a guaranteed blast for kids of all ages. Get ready for some high-flying fun!

19. The Scholastic Store

Book lovers will adore The Scholastic Store in SoHo. This magical bookstore offers a wide selection of children’s books and hosts various storytelling events, author signings, and book release parties. It’s a wonderful place to spark your child’s love for reading and encourage their literary imagination.

20. Tinkergarten

Embrace the great outdoors without worrying about the weather at Tinkergarten. This nature-based learning program organizes outdoor classes in parks and green spaces across NYC. Kids can explore, create, and engage in hands-on activities that foster a connection with nature and promote socialization.

21. The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Cultivate an appreciation for art by wandering through the galleries of MoMA, where your child can encounter famous works by artists such as Van Gogh and Picasso.

22. National Museum of Mathematics

Make math come to life in an interactive and engaging way at MoMath, which offers hands-on exhibits that encourage mathematical exploration and problem-solving.

23. Brooklyn Bowl

Enjoy a family-friendly bowling experience at this trendy, state-of-the-art bowling alley, complete with a delicious menu and live music.

24. Gulliver’s Gate

Take a miniaturized tour of the world at Gulliver’s Gate, an interactive exhibit featuring intricate and detailed miniature models of iconic landmarks from around the globe.

25. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Get up close and personal with wax figures of famous celebrities and historical icons, creating photo opportunities that will leave your child feeling like a VIP.

Tips For Indoor Activities For Kids in NYC

Bonding with with your family with indoor activities for kids in New York City is a great way to spend quality time together. Here are three tips for parents to enhance their bond while spending time with their kids in NYC:

#1 – Get hands-on. Choose activities that encourage active participation from both parents and kids. Whether it’s working on a craft project together, cooking a meal, or building a fort, getting hands-on allows for shared experiences, laughter, and collaboration.

#2 – Take turns choosing. Rotate who gets to choose the activity for the day. This not only gives kids a sense of autonomy and empowerment but also allows parents to discover their child’s interests and preferences. Encouraging this shared decision-making process can deepen understanding and foster a sense of mutual respect.

#3 – Make it a learning experience. Look for activities that provide opportunities for learning and growth. Visit educational exhibits, engage in science experiments, or explore history. Discuss what you learn together and encourage open dialogue.

By implementing these tips, your kids can enjoy the wide range of indoor activities for kids in NYC that the Big Apple has to offer. These moments will not only create cherished memories but also foster a strong and lasting bond between parents and children.