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NYC observation decks offer plenty of cool experiences and stunning views. Photo by Jody Mercier

Best Indoor Winter Activities for Kids in NYC

1. Visit the Empire State Building – Midtown

Play tourist and visit one of the observation decks in NYC. Last year, we went to the Empire State Building after my kids watched Elf. Several key scenes take place in the iconic building! We went right when it opened to avoid crowds. There's also the One World Observatory, Edge at Hudson Yards, Summit One Vanderbilt, and Top of the Rock.

2. Go Bowling at Lucky Strike – Various locations

We love Lucky Strike bowling lanes because there's something for the whole family. Besides bowling, kids can expend their energy on arcade games and laser tag. Lucky Strike has several locations in Manhattan and Queens. There are also several other bowling alleys in NYC.

3. Go Bouldering at Brooklyn Bouldering Project – Gowanus, Brooklyn

My kids really like to hone their climbing skills at Brooklyn Bouldering Project. The gym is so expansive, it never feels too crowded. It's a great activity for the whole family, no matter their skill level. While Brooklyn Bouldering Project is a bouldering-only gym, there are many rock-climbing gyms in NYC that offer other forms of climbing.

4. Play Indoors at Complete Playground – Financial District

On cold days, my son always asks if I can take him to Complete Playground, where he loves running around on the multi-level jungle gym. This indoor playground is really unique, offering programs and special areas for neurodivergent kids. Find more fun places to play in our comprehensive NYC Kids' Guide to Indoor Play Spaces and Fun Zones.

5. Make it to MoMA – Midtown East

Winter is a great time to explore the Museum of Modern Art and take in all its family-friendly perks and priceless works of art. Don't miss the Family Art Lab, where kids can get hands-on and create their own artwork. The Met is always a crowd-pleaser and has a FREE play space, while The Whitney is perfect for older kids.

6. Experience Immersive Art at Artechouse – Chelsea

Step into the immersive art experience at Artechouse in Chelsea. Afterward, get a bite to eat at the Chelsea Market and check out the shops. The newer Mercer Labs is also a crowd-pleaser, with plenty of hands-on experiences and photo-ops.

7. Indulge in a Sensory Experience at Sloomoo – Soho

Head to Soho for a day of slimy fun at the Sloomoo Institute, where kids can make and play with all forms of slime to their hearts' content. The best part: You don't have to clean up. Skip the crowded restaurants in Soho and instead walk a few blocks to Chinatown for the best hand-pulled noodles. Or, visit the nearby Museum of Ice Cream and think warm, sticky, ice-cream-melting thoughts.

The photo-ops at the Museum of Illusions puzzle your senses. Photo by Sara M.

8. Enter the Museum of Illusions – Chelsea

Snap a quirky selfie and allow your eyes to be tricked at the mind-bending Museum of Illusions. The museum is small and takes about an hour to an hour and half. Try to go either right when it opens or toward the end of the day to avoid crowds during high tourist season.

9. Play at Camp – Midtown

The store with the magic door is hosting a Bluey experience at its flagship Fifth Avenue location.

10. Disarm the Bomb – Dumbo, Brooklyn

My kids, who range in age from 9-17, all enjoy going to escape rooms with friends. One of my kids' favorite escape rooms is Beat the Bomb in Brooklyn, where kids solve puzzles and games to defuse a paint bomb. Pro tip: Even with the full gear, some of the paint might splatter on clothes, so make sure your kids don't wear anything too precious. We've got recommendations for more escape rooms in NYC.

11. Explore Brooklyn Children's Museum – Crown Heights, Brooklyn

Enjoy an afternoon at the Brooklyn Children's Museum. Been there, done that? Head to the Boogie Down to explore the Bronx Children's Museum. The Play Street Museum on the Upper West Side is the perfect size for the preschool set, too.

12. Learn at the Museum of the City of New York – Upper East Side

Visit the charming Museum of the City of New York for family-friendly exhibitions and programming. Don't miss Gingerbread NYC, the Great Borough Bakeoff 2025, where professional and amateur bakers design iconic NYC buildings made of gingerbread. You can vote for your favorite.

13. Let's the Kids Run Wild at Hapik – Industry City, Brooklyn

My son and his friends love going to Hapik, a climbing gym in Industry City with climbing walls, ropes courses, and play areas. While adults can climb as well, Hapik is geared more toward kids. The snack bar leaves a lot to be desired, so we always get a bite at Japan Village afterward.

Guy Fawkes masks, often associated with the hacker group Anonymous, are displayed in a Spyscape exhibit about hacking. Photo by Ros Muggeridge

14. Interact with Gadgets at the Spyscape Museum - Midtown West

Plan a secret mission to the Spyscape Museum where young special-ops can try their hand at interactive challenges, learn all about true spy stories, and engage with high-tech interactives. If your kids aren't too tired, have them put their wits to the test in SpyGames, where players compete in high-tech puzzle challenges.

15. Or Bounce Around a Trampoline Park – Multiple Locations

Have kids beat the winter doldrums by jumping and playing at one of these indoor trampoline parks or visiting the action-packed Area 53 Adventure Parks in Brooklyn.

16. Play with Paint – Midtown

Shot of Art lets creativity explode—sometimes quite literally!—visit for spin art, splash art, fluid art, and more multi-colored fun.

17. Don't Miss Kids Week at the Intrepid Museum – Hell's Kitchen

There's no better place to spend February break than at the Intrepid's annual action-packed Kids Week, which takes place from Saturday, February 14-Saturday, February 21, 2026. Make sure to explore the history of this storied museum while you're there.

18. Go Roller Skating in Retro Style – Bushwich, Brooklyn

Xanadu offers a retro roller rink experience in the heart of Bushwick, Brooklyn, and is sure to help bust your winter blues.

19. Get Into Shape at Brooklyn Sluggers – Red Hook, Brooklyn

Brooklyn Sluggers is perfect for beginners and serious athletes. The locally owned spot features coin-operated batting cages, pitching tunnels, and a parent lounge. We've got more options for batting cages throughout the city. Be sure to book your session in advance.

20. Play at Let's Dress Up – Upper East Side

Book an afternoon of princess play fun at Let's Dress Up.

Enjoy a scenic skate underneath the Brooklyn Bridge with spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. Photo by Diana Kim

Best Outdoor Winter Activities for Kids in NYC

21. Glide on Ice Skates under the Brooklyn Bridge – Dumbo, Brooklyn

Go ice skating under the Brooklyn Bridge at Glide. The breathtaking views alone are worth it even if you're a bit shaky on skates. Afterward, make a stop at Jacque Torres for the best, most molten hot chocolate in Brooklyn. You can aso take a twirl at other outdoor ice skating rinks in NYC.

22. Drive Ice Bumper Cars in Bryant Park – Midtown

Bumper Cars in Bryant Park generally pop up in January, bringing with it a smashing good time. Remember to reserve in advance because they are very popular.

23. Take a Ride on a Vintage Carousel – Dumbo

Along with ice skating, another winter outdoor activity that makes the most of the waterfront views in Dumbo is riding Jane's Carousel. The carousel spins a bit slower than the others, but all the better to enjoy the views. If not Jane's, hop on one of the other NYC's beautiful, spinning carousels. Many are open year-round and nestled in some of our favorite parks.

24. Smell the Flowers at the Orchid Show at NYBG – Bronx Park, the Bronx

Escape the chill of winter with the NYBG's annual ode to orchids. This time, the theme of the orchid show is Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle. It runs from Saturday, February 7-Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Hit the local sledding hill for hours of fun when the flakes fly. Photo by Jody Mercier

25. Go Sledding in Prospect Park – Park Slope, Brooklyn

Brooklyn families love to go sledding in the Nethermead in Prospect Park, where hills are just sloped enough to make for a lot of speed. If you don't live in Park Slope, take the F to 7th Avenue because parking can be difficult. For more options in Brooklyn and around the city, check our list of the city's best sledding hills.

26. Visit the Statue of Liberty – New York Harbor

Hop aboard the ferry to visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty Museum.

27. Spend the Day Outside

See how many of these 40 outdoor winter activities you can conquer.

Must-Do Winter Events in NYC

28. Attend the NYBG Holiday Train Show

The Holiday Train Show at NYBG is hands-down the best train show out there. Be amazed as model trains zip through a miniature wonderland of nearly 200 New York landmark replicas, each re-created from natural materials such as leaves, seeds, twigs, bark, acorns, and cinnamon sticks. It runs through Sunday, January 11, 2026.

29. Dine in an Igloo at 230 Fifth Rooftop – Flatiron

Embrace outdoor dining even in winter by having a cozy meal in a heated igloo. Many of the spots are very popular, so book reservations.

30. Ride on the Polar Express – Various locations

Celebrate the season by taking a Polar Express train ride near NYC. We've rounded up festive Polar Express train rides, Christmas trains, and holiday trolleys all within a whistle's blow of the New York City metro area.

31. Cozy Up with a Cup of Hot Chocolate at Max Brenner – Union Square

There's nothing better than a cup of hot chocolate to warm you up. In addition to Max Brenner, we've got some other suggestions for the best hot chocolate in the city.

32. Peruse the Unique Finds at Williamsburg Winter Village – Williamsburg, Brooklyn

Williamsburg Winter Village is the newest holiday market to open in NYC, featuring handmade goodies, vintage finds, and only-in-NYC gifts. Check out the wares each weekend through Christmas.

Creative Winter Day Trips from NYC

33. Visit Kartrite Indoor Water Park – Monticello, New York

The Kartrite Resort in the Catskills is home to an 80,000-square-foot water park with rides, slides, and pools. The entire space is covered by the world’s largest Texlon transparent roof, ensuring it stays at an optimal 84 degrees. If you have kids who love to swim year-round, there are plenty of indoor water parks just a short drive from NYC.

34. Book a Staycation at Rocking Horse Ranch Resort – Highland, New York

Less than two hours from Manhattan, Rocking Horse Ranch Resort has activities to keep everyone occupied and stimulated, like ice skating, horseback riding, mountain snow tubing, seasonal outdoor water sports, mountain climbing, archery, an arcade, and a weatherproof indoor water park. The all-inclusive price also includes delicious meals. Check our list of family-friendly hotels in New York.

35. Take a Hike at Westchester's Minnewaska State Park

Plan a day trip to explore the trails in Westchester's Minnewaska State Park or New Jersey's High Point State Park.

36. Visit Art Omi Sculpture Park – Ghent, New York

Plan an outdoor art day trip to explore larger-than-life sculptures and breathe some fresh air. Art Omi is a great sculpture park for young kids because the artworks are contained within a smaller area, and there are kids' workshops on the weekends. Admission is FREE.

37. Hop On a Train For a Daycation – Multiple Locations

Explore one of these nearby towns or attractions, even without a car.

38. Hit the Slopes at Mount Peter – Warwick, New York

Make your plans now to hit the slopes at one of these local-ish ski areas. Mount Peter is particularly great for beginners and kids, and it offers FREE beginner lessons.

39. Go Snow Tubing at Campgaw – Mahaw, New Jersey

Campgaw Mountain has 10 snowtubing lanes and is the closest slope to Manhattan. Here are more options for snow tubing near NYC.

40. Hang Out at American Dream Mall – East Rutherford, New Jersey

Indulge in some over-the-top suburban fun at the action-packed American Dream Mall. Romp in the Sesame Street Learn and Play, ride the rides at Nickelodeon Universe, the slopes at Big Snow, or the waves at DreamWorks Animation Water Park. You can also hit the links with the Angry Birds, explore the Sea Life Aquarium and Legoland Discovery Center, or, you know, just shop in a super-sized candy store or two-story Toys R Us.

Free or Cheap Things To Do with Kids this Winter in NYC

41. Spend a Day at Governors Island

There's plenty to do over at Governors Island, just a seven-minute ferry ride from Manhattan. Visit on Saturday, February 7, 2026, to watch master artists at work carving ice statues.

42. Attend the Lunar New Year Parade – Chinatown

Line the streets of Chinatown to cheer on the dragon dancers and usher in the Year of the Horse at the annual Lunar New Year Parade on Sunday, March 1, 2026. FREE

43. Play at FAO Schwarz – Midtown East

FAO Schwarz is a fun anytime destination to dance on the giant piano, take a selfie with a toy soldier, browse the aisles, and see a few amazing magic demos.

44. Explore AMNH – Upper West Side

The American Museum of Natural History never disappoints and is always pay-what-you-wish for the permanent exhibits. While you're there, check out the Gilder Center, peruse the Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs exhibit, and introduce yourself to its newest star dino, Apex. Don't forget to see the amazing butterflies in the Butterfly Vivarium, which requires a separate ticket.

45. Encourage Book Worm Behavior at Books are Magic – Cobble Hill and Brooklyn Heights

Browse the shelves at one of our favorite independent bookstores, Books are Magic, or visit one of these public library locations with great children's sections. Books are Magic hosts kids' events, so make sure to check its calendar.

46. Wander Around Grand Central – Midtown East

Outside of rush hour, you can wander around a relatively peaceful Grand Central and explore some of the family-friendly fun within.

47. Test Your Luck at Anime Claw Machine Arcade – Flushing, Queens

Claw machine arcades have been popping up all over the five boroughs. Do you have the steady hand required to nab a cute and cuddly prize at one of these colorful locations? At Anime Claw, the tokens are $1, and most games cost 2-3 tokens per play,

FAQs About Winter Activities in NYC

What are the best indoor activities for toddlers in winter?
For toddlers, seek out indoor playspaces, storytimes at bookstores and libraries, and children's museums. Some of the climbing gyms and trampoline parks have toddler areas with soft blocks and toys.

Where can I find FREE winter activities in NYC?
Libraries, parks, and local community centers often host no-cost family events. Of course, our NYC Family Event Calendar is filled with fun, FREE things to do every day of the week. 

What are some winter activities that work for all ages?
For kids of all ages, we love escape rooms, outdoor light shows, train rides, and indoor playgrounds.

Is there snow in NYC during winter?
New York City gets most of its snow in January and February. Hit the sledding hills, or make snow angels in your nearby city park.

This post, originally published in January 2010, is updated annually.

Unless noted, photos courtesy of their respective venues