Play Gyms & Sports Centers

Relate to Directory Listing Type:

12 Surprisingly Fun Places in NYC to Hang with Your Baby

Submitted by Sydney Ng on Mon, 08/14/2017 - 4:35pm

Yes, infanthood is a wonderful time, full of snuggles and milestones. But entertainment options for non-walkers and even early walkers can start to feel repetitive day after day. Once you've tried all the baby play spaces and gyms, playgrounds, and even stroller tours at museums, what's next?

The thing about New York City, is there's always something open, always something going on, and always something new to try. We've rounded up some out-of-box ideas to shake up your daily routine with your NYC kids ages 12 months and under—many of these ideas are 100% FREE things—and most will also entertain your toddlers. Each destination is loaded with sights and sounds or another cool sensory experience for little ones, plus a change of scenery for the grown-up. So read on to plan the next city adventure with your little one.

Peruse our NYC Baby Guide for more need-to-know info and cool activities for the littlest New Yorkers.

5 Must-Try Laser Tag and Paintball Arenas for NYC Kids

Submitted by Stephanie Ogozalek on Sun, 08/13/2017 - 10:00am

Are your big kids bored of bowling? Not quite ready for the zip line? Consider laser tag or paintball, both fun party options and action-fueled activities you can find right here in NYC.

For the uninitiated, laser tag is a high-energy game of tag meets hide-and-seek that’s played with infrared laser guns in a darkened arena. Paintball pelts participants with small dye pellets. The object of both games: Get to your opponents before they get to you out by strategically shooting, running, and hiding from cover to cover. Don't worry, the laser guns emit harmless, invisible rays that register a "kill" by lighting up a spot on your adversaries' vests and paintball pellets might sting for a few seconds, but there's no long-lasting effects.

Check out one of these five fast and furious laser tag and paintball spots.

Bounce Houses and Trampoline Parks for Long Island Kids

Submitted by Lisa Mancuso on Fri, 08/04/2017 - 6:18pm

If you find your high-energy kids are bouncing off the walls, it may be time to head to one of the many bounce houses and trampoline parks found throughout Long Island.

From inflatable slides to obstacle courses and high-flying trampolines, these play spaces are a great way for kids to work off their energy and have some indoor fun when it’s too hot, cold, or wet to play outdoors.

Whether you’re looking for an impromptu bouncing session or want to schedule a birthday party, most of these venues offer a variety of play options. Just be sure to check out their websites for all the specifics.

And for more active fun indoors and outdoors around Long Island, check out our Summer Fun Guide and the Event Calendar.

25 Ways to Cool Off with NJ Kids in the Dog Days of Summer

Submitted by Rachel Sokol on Fri, 08/04/2017 - 3:10pm

If you're suffering from hot-weather burnout, don't sweat it: New Jersey has tons of cool activities to help the whole family chill out when the temperatures soar. From beaches and splash parks to blissfully air-conditioned bowling alleys and indoor mini-golf, we've got the best ways to beat the heat during the sizzling second half of summer. Check out even more refreshing activities in our New Jersey Kids Summer Activities Guide. Stay cool, NJ!