Things to Do With Toddlers in NYC: Fun Activities for the Under-5 Crowd
Discover a toddler’s paradise in the heart of the Big Apple! Dive into our guide for the best things to do in NYC with toddlers. Whether they’re captains on a sailboat, explorers in a museum, or conductors on a subway, in NYC, your toddlers will be the heroes of their own vibrant adventures!
Aside from discovering the delights of world-renowned toy stores such as FAO Schwarz, this bustling metropolis has transformed into a toddler’s playground. Keep reading to discover the most fun things to do in NYC with toddlers.
NYC offers a vibrant blend of unique and classic attractions that will keep your toddlers engaged, entertained, and eager for more. From the enchanting puppet theaters booming in the New York theater scene to walking the Brooklyn Bridge Park with your energetic toddlers. This city is brimming with the best things to do in NYC with toddlers.
Ready for the best toddler activities NYC has to offer? Grab your strollers and join us as we share some of the most fun-filled, toddler-friendly spots in the Big Apple!
13 NYC Fun Activities and Attractions for Toddlers
LEGOLAND New York Resort
1 Legoland Blvd, Goshen, NY 10924
First stop, LEGOLAND New York Resort! This fantastic amusement park is a dream come true for your little builders and creators. It’s a land bursting with vibrant colors and boundless imagination. Dedicated to everyone who loves LEGOS and has a penchant for fun, from kids to kids at heart.
Your toddlers will be absolutely thrilled by the pint-sized rides tailored to their taste. And it’s not just about the rides! The park encourages the spirit of creativity. Your tiny tots can engage in building and creating their own LEGO masterpieces. You might even discover a budding architect in the family!
With so much to see and do, this is a perfect destination for a day out brimming with fun, adventure, and a whole lot of LEGO bricks!
Luna Park Coney Island
1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
If you’re searching for things to do with toddlers in NYC today, set the compass towards the timeless allure of Coney Island. Here, the salty sea breeze, the sandy beach, and the delectable taste of a cool ice cream cone meld into the quintessential NYC summer experience. But the cherry on top? It’s undoubtedly the newly reopened Luna Park!
One of the best things to do in New York with toddlers, Luna Park is an iconic wonderland of laughter, thrills, and nostalgic charm. This whimsical amusement park is also packed with toddler-friendly rides, like the Clown Coaster for a gentle ride or the Carousell, an enchanting merry-go-round that’s sure to delight with its vibrant horses.
Your little ones might not remember the first day they visited Luna Park, but you can always take tons of pictures to add to their growing album!
DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream
1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Next up on our list is an aquatic adventure unlike any other–the DreamWorks Water Park at American Dream! This stunning water oasis is one of the largest indoor water parks in the world and is an absolute delight for toddlers in New York City.
Dreamed into reality with families in mind, it boasts a variety of water rides and attractions specifically designed for the family’s youngest members. Your little water babies will love splashing around in the Kung Fu Panda Zone, an interactive play structure with gentle slides and water features. Another must-visit is the lazy river, where you can all float along on tubes at a leisurely pace.
There are also exciting meet and greet opportunities with DreamWorks characters for a photo op to remember. So pack your swimsuits and get ready to dive into a day of splash-tastic fun at DreamWorks Water Park!
Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream
1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
Ready for a journey into the world of cartoons and laughter? Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream is your next stop for endlessly fun NYC activities for toddlers! This vibrant indoor amusement park breathes life into the characters your toddlers know and adore from their favorite Nickelodeon shows.
Your kids will be overjoyed to shake hands with SpongeBob, give a high five to Dora the Explorer, or share a laugh with the characters from PAW Patrol. These magical moments of meeting their TV heroes in person are sure to be a highlight of their visit!
And of course, let’s not forget the rides. From the pint-sized thrills of the Blue’s Skidoo ride to the gentle sways of the Backyardigans Swing-Along, Nickelodeon Universe is filled with toddler-friendly rides designed for maximum fun. This fantastic world of laughter and adventure truly makes Nickelodeon Universe a top NYC attraction for families with toddlers.
The Rink at American Dream
1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
What could be more magical than gliding across the ice hand in hand with your toddler? At The Rink at American Dream, you can introduce your little ones to the joy of ice skating.
If your toddler or you are just starting to skate, there’s no need to worry! You can rent a charming Seal Buddy support. These adorable aids provide just the right amount of balance and confidence for your toddler (or you!) to find your ice legs. Please note and remember, that it’s not about the perfect glide; it’s about the shared laughter and the magic of trying something new!
TiLT A Tracy Lee Stum Museum at American Dream
1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
The TiLT A Tracy Lee Stum Museum at American Dream is no ordinary museum. It’s an immersive 3D art experience that is as mind-bending as it is unforgettable.
Your toddlers will be absolutely mesmerized by the floor-to-ceiling artwork that seems to leap out of the walls. And you? Well, you’re about to become the family photographer of the year.
Here’s your chance to snap some hilariously adorable pictures of your little ones interacting with the art. Take photos of the little tottle riding a giant wave, floating in outer space, or petting a ferocious dinosaur!
We promise you’ll walk away with a camera roll full of precious moments and laughter that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.
Private Sailboat Charter to the Statue of Liberty and NYC
Are you ready to take your NYC adventure to the high seas? Step aboard a Private Sailboat Charter for an unforgettable tour around Manhattan and the iconic Lady Liberty. This luxury experience is designed to give you and your toddlers the best views of the city from a completely different perspective.
Feel the refreshing sea breeze in your hair, while your little ones marvel at the sight of the city skyline from the spacious deck and sun lounge. As you sail past Lower Manhattan landmarks and Ellis Island, you’ll see the towering majesty of the Statue of Liberty in all her glory.
If the little ones get sleepy, you’ll find a comfortable heated or air-conditioned cabin where the kids can rest, offering you a moment of respite to enjoy the view. It’s a memorable experience that you and your family will treasure, long after you’ve set foot back on dry land.
The Essential Central Park Guided Walking Tour
No visit to NYC would be complete without exploring the verdant heart of the city–Central Park! And what better way to discover this sprawling urban oasis than with The Essential Central Park Guided Walking Tour? It’s a journey through lush landscapes, iconic landmarks, and a mosaic of art and culture that truly encapsulates the spirit of New York.
Your toddlers will be fascinated by the sights and sounds as you wander through the park. This trip is the perfect opportunity for them to run around and expend their energy while exploring a new place! Not to forget, a visit to the Central Park Zoo, where your little ones can marvel at the animals.
Throughout your tour, a professional guide will provide insider information, bringing to life the stories behind these beloved spots. So, tie up those walking shoes and get ready for an enchanting stroll through Central Park!
American Museum of Natural History
200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024
The American Museum of Natural History is a world-renowned treasure trove of knowledge that will captivate the curious minds of your toddlers.
Step into the awe-inspiring Hall of Dinosaurs, where your little ones can come face-to-face with a towering T-rex! Or, venture into the Milstein Family Hall of Ocean Life to marvel at the massive blue whale model. For hands-on learning, the Discovery Room offers interactive exhibits and activities specifically designed for younger children.
Each exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History is more than just a display–it’s a learning opportunity wrapped in fun! Your toddlers will not just see, but experience the wonders of the natural world in a way they’ll remember long after your visit. After all, the best lessons are those learned while having a blast!
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
Brooklyn Children’s Museum is a treasure chest of interactive fun and learning for toddlers. This vibrant space invites children to touch, explore, and engage with the world around them, making it one of the most exciting activities for kids in NYC.
Your little ones can dive into the ‘Totally Tots’ exhibit, an area specifically designed for children under five. Here, they can play in the water, build with blocks, or even create music. The role-playing in ‘World Brooklyn’ is also a crowd favorite. This exhibit lets kids run their own shop, learning about cultures and communities along the way.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum is where toddlers can let their curiosity lead the way while parents enjoy seeing their child’s imagination in full swing. It’s going to be a day full of wonder!
Prospect Park Zoo
450 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
Nestled in the heart of Brooklyn, Prospect Park Zoo is a charming, family-friendly oasis teeming with wildlife from around the world. Though small in size, this well-kept zoo is big on experiences that will delight your toddlers and spark their fascination for animals.
Take a wander down the Discovery Trail, a vibrant pathway that introduces little explorers to various animals from red pandas to dingoes.
And who can resist a visit to the barn area? Here, your toddlers can meet friendly farm animals like goats, sheep, and cows. These gentle creatures are a hit with the younger ones, making the barn area a must-visit at Prospect Park Zoo.
New York Transit Museum
99 Schermerhorn St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
All aboard for a journey through time at the New York Transit Museum! Located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, this unique museum offers a fascinating look at the history of New York’s public transportation system.
If your little one loves playing with four wheels and toy cars, imagine the delight on your toddler’s face as they explore the collection of vintage subway cars. They’ll love the chance to take the driver’s seat and pretend they’re conducting their very own subway train!
But it’s not just about trains; the museum also features old-school buses, trolleys, and artifacts that paint a vivid picture of NYC’s transit past.
The New York Transit Museum is a perfect destination for a fun family day out, allowing your toddlers to feed their curiosity and embark on a little adventure right in the heart of a vintage subway station!
New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458
Step into a lush, green oasis at the New York Botanical Garden, a living museum that celebrates the beauty and diversity of plant life.
If going with the little ones, a day at the New York Botanical Garden isn’t just about exploring plants; it’s also about fostering a love for nature in your toddler. The highlight for families with toddlers is undoubtedly the Family Garden.
This magical space encourages children to roll up their sleeves and play in the dirt, all while learning about the wonders of the plant world. They can plant seeds, water flowers, and even dig for worms. It’s hands-on learning at its finest!
New York City Family Vacation Packages
Are you ready to embark on a toddler-sized adventure in the City That Never Sleeps? NYC toddler activities are endlessly fun!
Planning the perfect family getaway to the Big Apple has never been easier or more affordable. New York City family vacation packages available on Tripster let you tailor your NYC adventure to fit your family’s tastes and budget.
These incredible packages bundle your tickets to top fun things to do with toddlers NYC, like Nickelodeon’s Amusement Park and the American Museum of Natural History, along with accommodation at a hotel of your choice.
From building dreams at LEGOLAND, sailing towards Lady Liberty, or digging in the dirt at the New York Botanical Garden, there’s an endless list of reasons why NYC is the next best city to explore with toddlers.
So pack your bags, grab your kiddos, and get ready for the unforgettable family adventure of a lifetime in the heart of New York City!
Things to Do with Toddlers NYC FAQs
Is It Worth Taking Kids to New York?
Absolutely! New York City is a treasure trove of experiences for kids of all ages. From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to Broadway shows and Central Park adventures, there's something to spark every child's imagination and create lasting memories.
Plus, the city's vibrant energy and diversity offer a unique learning opportunity for young minds.
What is the Best Month to Visit New York With Kids?
The best month to visit New York with kids depends on your priorities. Spring (April-May) and fall (September- October) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful foliage in Central Park.
Summer is great for outdoor activities and festivals but be prepared for higher temperatures and larger crowds. Winter brings the magic of the holiday season, with festive decorations and events, but it can be quite cold, so bundle up!
What Did We Miss?
Do you have anything to add to our guide? Leave us a comment below!
