New York City | MommyPoppins - Things to do in New York City with Kids

CAMP hosts costumed kids and their grown-ups for a no-contact twist on trick-or-treating at Hudson Yards. Photo courtesy of CAMP

Things To Do in NYC This Weekend and Beyond: Meet a Monster, No-Contact Trick-or-Treating, and More

Get a jump-start on Halloween fun with our event picks.

Find spooky Halloween fun around NYC with our guide

Halloween Events & Activities for NYC Kids

The best Halloween parades, events, and seasonal fun for NYC kids.

Which pumpkin carving design will you choose? Spooky or sweet?

Easy Pumpkin Carving Ideas and Stencils for Halloween

Carve your jack-o-lantern to perfection with these templates.

The skeletons in Carroll Gardens are may be nothing but bones, but they're taking pandemic safety seriously. Photo by Fay Koplovitz

Where to See Halloween Decorations Around New York City

From stoops to sidewalks and pro displays, these decorations set the Halloween mood.

Trek the candy trail, take a ride on the Bug Carousel, and take in pumpkin carving demos at The Bronx Zoo's Boo at the Zoo. Photo by Ally Noel

The Best Halloween Events for NYC Families in 2020

Halloween 2020 might be different, but it's no less fun with these awesome event picks.

Great eats and outdoor fun await at Greenwood Park. Photo courtesy the venue

Brooklyn and Queens Beer Gardens Where Kids Are Welcome

NYC's best beer gardens and halls where families can raise their glasses.

Halloween at the Queens Botanical Garden is back. Little ones can show off their Halloween costumes and walk the trick-or-treat trail. Photo courtesy of the Garden

Not-So-Scary Halloween Events for NYC Preschoolers

These Halloween events are just the right speed for little revelers.

A backyard swing set becomes an obstacle course with a little creativity. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

10-Minute Recess Breaks for Remote Learners

Let kids wiggle, giggle, and refocus with these fun recess breaks for remote school days.

Lake Minnewaska draws you into the stunning preserve that bears its name.

7 Things to Do at Minnewaska State Park Preserve With Kids

Minnewaska State Park is a family-friendly all-season destination.

Immerse yourself in all the spectacular colors of the season at NYBG. Photo courtesy of NYBG

30 Things We Can't Wait to Do This Fall in NYC

Here are the seasonal favorites and reopenings that have us actually excited for fall.

The grounds of the Queens County Farm Museum provide a backdrop for the stunning floral displays of The Fall Escape

The Fall Escape at Queens County Farm Museum is a Stunning Outdoor Wonderland

Grab your camera to capture the vibrant display at the Queens County Farm Museum.

Miss the thrills? Enjoy Luna Park in Coney Island’s classic coasters from the comfort of home. Photo courtesy of Luna Park

Virtual Field Trips to NYC's Coolest Kid Spots and Cultural Institutions

Enjoy these top kid destinations with educational virtual visits from home.

Times Square is more quiet than normal, but still filled with lively billboards and plenty of attractions.

Line-Free NYC: 20 Things To Do and Enjoy in NYC Right Now

Now is the perfect time to revisit NYC's culture spots and tourist attractions.

Trees festooned with pumpkins are among the attractions at Skylands Stadium's Jack-o'-Lantern Experience. Photo courtesy of Skylands Stadium

Drive-Thru Halloween Attractions in the Tri-State Area For Safe 2020 Thrills

Hop in the car for a spooky night out at these drive-thru haunts.

Enjoy seasonal entertainment that’s more silly than scary. Photo courtesy of Kiddle Karoo

Free Things To Do Online in October: Halloween Events, World Space Week, Dia de los Muertos, and Coffee Fest

Replace big holiday gatherings with Halloween concerts, parties, and activities from all over the...

The Edible Shoolyard helps cultivate healthy kids and communities through its hands-on gardening projects. Photo courtesy of the Edible Schoolyard

25 Ways Kids Can Get Their Hands Dirty in NYC

Step away from the screen. We found 25 dig-in-the-dirt ways for city kids to enjoy fall.

Kids' classes like art lessons can help your NYC child grow and develop

Guide to NYC Classes for Kids

Stay safe and have fun with awesome classes for kids in New York City, from fully virtual...

Join a science pod at Alley Pond. Photo courtesy of Alley Pond

Cool In-Person Classes Enrolling New York City Kids For Fall 2020

These classes take safety and fun seriously, so step away from the screen.

Hudson River Park's Pier 26 offers plenty of room to lounge and enjoy panoramic views spanning from the George Washington Bridge to the Statue of Liberty.

Pier 26 Opens in Hudson River Park Bringing an Educational Green Space to Tribeca

Giant glider swings, sport courts, and eco education await at the new park.

Krispy Kreme brings its trademark glazed doughnuts to the crossroads of the world.

Krispy Kreme Debuts Times Square Mega Shop

Get your glazed doughnut fix at Krispy Kreme's new flagship store.

Pick the largest pumpkin you can carry at Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard.

Pumpkin Patches Near NYC Where Kids Can Pick Their Own

Pick a perfect pumpkin at one of these patches less than an hour from Midtown.

The Amazing Maize Maze is waiting to be explored at the Queens County Farm Museum. Photo courtesy of the museum

NYC's Only Corn Maze and More Fall Fun at the Queens Farm Museum

Trek through the Amazing Maize Maze and enjoy more fun at the Queens County Farm Museum.

I Dissent tells the story of Ruth Bader Ginsburg's life in a stunning picture book.

20+ Ruth Bader Ginsburg Children's Books (+ More Women Leaders)

Let loose that inner rebel with these inspirational children's books.

Get lost in the giant corn maze at Hurds Family Farm.

Best Corn Mazes to Visit with Kids Near NYC

Corn mazes of every variety await just outside the city.

Masks are cool during Boo at the Zoo! Photo by Julie Larsen Maher

Pumpkin Patches, Hayrides, and Harvest Fests Right Here in NYC

No car? No problem! There's plenty of fall fun to be had within NYC limits.

Elevate your sour taste buds at the new Sour Patch Kids store. Photo by Jody Mercier

14 Best Candy Stores for New York City Kids

From old-fashioned counters to modern-day Candy Lands, these candy stores are worth the trip.

The NYC DOE has finally announced its schedule for the 2020-21 school year.

Here's the NYC Public School Calendar for 2020-2021

See all the days off NYC kids will have during the 2020-2021 school year.

Boo at the Zoo is a fun, safe, and festive way for kids to celebrate Halloween.

Boo at the Zoo Returns to Bronx Zoo for 2020 Halloween Season

The Bronx Zoo delivers plenty of seasonal treats with its annual Halloween celebration.

Play with light and color at the American Museum of Natural History's "The Nature of Color," which is newly reopened along with the rest of the museum. Photo by D. Finnin/courtesy AMNH

Explore The Nature of Color at the American Museum of Natural History

Interact with the colors of the rainbow at this AMNH exhibit.

Jeffrey Gibson; 'Because Once You Enter My House It Becomes Our House;' 2020; Courtesy the Artist; Socrates Sculpture Park; Sikkema Jenkins & Co., NY; Kavi Gupta, Chicago; Roberts Projects, LA; Image by Scott Lynch

Outdoor Art Day Trips Near NYC

Spend a day enjoying spectacular sculptures at these outdoor art spots.

Explore a family-friendly fall hiking trail in New Jersey, Westchester, Long Island, further afield. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

30 Perfect Fall Family Day Trips from NYC

Apple picking, park-hopping, museums, harvest festivals...No wonder we love autumn in the NYC area.

Kids can pick apples from the smaller trees at Alstede Farms. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

10 Top Apple Picking Orchards and Farms Near NYC

Pick your own apples at one of the nearby spots.

Let your kids loose to run free on the hiking trails right here in NYC. Photo by Sara M.

Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in NYC to Tackle This Fall

NYC is home to several great family-friendly hiking trails perfect for an autumn stroll.

Enjoy seasonal entertainment that’s more silly than scary. Photo courtesy of Kiddle Karoo

Free Things To Do Online in October: Halloween Events, World Space Week, Dia de los Muertos, and Coffee Fest

Replace big holiday gatherings with Halloween concerts, parties, and activities from all over the...

Take in a Jackson Pollock or one of the other masters when The Met reopens Saturday, August 29. Photo by the author

NYC Museums Reopen With Free Admission Deals and New Exhibits

Find out when your favorite museum reopens and how to snag tickets.

The Edge's glass cutout offers a terrifying view 1,131 feet above street level. Photo courtesy of Related-Oxford

Edge Welcomes Visitors to Western Hemisphere's Highest Open-Air Observation Deck

Take in sky-high views at Hudson Yards' open-air observation deck.

Virtual and Online Guide for Family Fun

Find fun online classes, entertainment, and more virtual things to do.

School yards, streets, and city parks can all become outdoor classrooms under a new plan announced by Mayor Bill De Blasio on Monday. Photo by Mommy Poppins

Outdoor Classrooms Coming to New York City Schools This Fall

A new back-to-school twist: NYC students can attend classes outdoors.

The Edible Shoolyard helps cultivate healthy kids and communities through its hands-on gardening projects. Photo courtesy of the Edible Schoolyard

25 Ways Kids Can Get Their Hands Dirty in NYC

Step away from the screen. We found 25 dig-in-the-dirt ways for city kids to enjoy fall.

Homeschool & Online Learning Resources for Families

We'll help you navigate a complex school year with these tools and resources.

The VW Picture Bus delivers drive-in movie nights to your backyard or another locale. Photo courtesy of the company

Private Family Experiences, Tours, and Charters for Socially Distant Fun Near NYC

Book one of these exclusive experiences for a safe, fun diversion.

Head to the CAMP curbside cafe on 16th Street and 5th Avenue for crafting and ice cream.Photo courtesy of the store

Fun Outdoor Classes for Kids Around NYC

Pick from parkour, music class in the park, sidewalk art class, and more!

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze opens its 2020 season Friday, September 18. Photo by Susan Miele

The Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze Returns for 2020 Season

The Hudson Valley Halloween staple is set for its 2020 season.

Many cool playgrounds in Central Park are shaded by tall trees. Photo courtesy of Central Park Conservancy

NYC Playgrounds With Shade: Play It Cool at These Shady Parks in NYC

Cool off under a flower-covered trellis or large shade trees at these playgrounds.

The Key Largo Campground in Florida is located on 40 acres of tropical foliage. Photo courtesy of the campground

10 East Coast Beach Camping Sites from Florida to Maine

Is there anything better than waking up to the sound of the ocean?

Test your comfort zone at the Bronx Zoo's Treetop Adventure..

Adventure Parks, Zip Lines, and Ropes Courses Near NYC

Release your inner daredevil at these treetop-skimming parks.

Meet a cow at the Long Island Game Farm. Photo courtesy of the farms

Petting Zoos Near NYC Where Kids Can See Farm Animals

Feed a cow, pet a bunny, or meet friendly goats at one of these nearby petting zoos.

Ritz Kids study breaks happen in the best locations. Photo courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Reynolds, Lake Oconee

Remote Learning by the Pool? Vacations Where Kids Can Homeschool and Parents Can Work Remotely

Keep up with remote school and work at these fun destinations.

Kidz Bop does a daily Dance Break

Free Online Classes For Kids: Science, Art, Fitness, and More Free Enrichment

In a year when summer slide feels like it started in March, free online classes save the day!

Take a hike with your little one on a family day trip from NYC. Photo: Shutterstock

Family Day Trips and Weekend Getaways for NYC Kids

Find a great weekend getaway from NYC for the whole family with this guide to the best day trips...

Finding relief and fun on the fire escape in NYC.

Silver Linings? All The Things I Hope Stick Around After This Crisis Passes

Parenting in a pandemic is frightening and stressful, but I found a few bright spots.

Beautiful views and an impressive playground make Heckscher Park worth a subway ride. Photo by Jody Mercier

NYC's Playgrounds Reopen: 18 Must-Visit City Spots

With NYC playgrounds reopening, it's time to plan a trip to one of our favorites.

Keep her hands busy with a Koosh ball so she can focus her mind. Photo by author

Fidget Spinners, Fidget Toys, and Ways to Help Kids Focus on Remote Learning

Fidget toys, movement breaks, and check-ins can keep kids focused.

Stay-at-Home Guide: 100s of Activities and Resources for Families on Pause

Indoor activities, games, and online classes to keep kids busy during the coronavirus pandemic.

New York's Hudson Valley has tons of kid-friendly hiking trials to choose from. Photo courtesy of Hike It Baby

Easy New York State Park Hikes for Families

These kid-friendly trails are perfect for exploring nature with the whole family.

Playgrounds & Parks NYC Guide

NYC is a big concrete jungle, yes, but we've also got almost 30,000 acres of parkland. From grand...

The Colors of Us can help kids talk about race and see differences as strengths.

21 Kids' Books About Racism, By Age

Books can help parents and kids wade through a difficult time and complex issue.

Climb Monument Mountain for panoramic views of the Berkshires. Photo courtesy of Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism

25 Things To Do in the Berkshires with Kids

See a Shaker village, climb a mountain, or listen to Bish Bash Falls on a Berkshires getaway.

Fight the restlessness of quarantine, join in for LIVE ONLINE YogiKids classes held every day, twice a day!!! Photo courtesy of Yogi Nation

Find Free and Affordable Online Classes, Parties, and Camps on Poppins@Home

Explore tons of virtual free and low-cost fun with our new platform.

Guests will be able to experience the safari at Six Flags Great Adventure from the privacy and safety of their own vehicles.

The Six Flags Great Adventure Safari Drive-Thru Returns in All Its 1970s Glory

Get ready to take the family car on a safari, through lions and tigers and baboons!

Make exercise a family affair! Photo by Mommy Poppins

Best Free Online Workouts: Sports and Fitness Classes for Kids and Families

Family-friendly yoga, dance, soccer, and more.

Phone in your order, mask up, and head to Park Slope's Little Things for curbside pickup of your goodies. Photo by Ros Muggeridge

Toy and Book Stores Offering Curbside Pickup and Delivery for NYC Kids

Revamp pandemic playtime and shop small at one of these NYC stores.

Photo by Katrina Holden Buckley

Birthday Parties in Quarantine: Ways To Celebrate with Kids while Social Distancing

Birthday? How about a drive-by parade, a Zoom party, or a Broadway show from home?

Disney On Broadway has released a new instructional video teaching fans how to dance the opening number “Arabian Nights” (above) from Aladdin. Photo by Deen Van Meer

Broadway Shows and Other Top Entertainment Streaming Online for Free

Enjoy these 25 show-stopping entertainment picks on your night in.

Kids can while away hours of a day with a set of watercolors and a stack of new paper for painting.

Crafts for Kids: 100 Awesome Art Projects for Creative At-Home Fun

Bookmark this blockbuster list of arts and crafts and never run out of ideas for creative play.

Even if it's cloudy and raining outside, you can create sunshine and rainbows inside.

50 Indoor Activities for Kids on a Rainy Day

Try one of these boredom-busting activities to turn a stuck-at-home day into a lasting memory.

Misfits Market delivers ugly, but otherwise perfectly edible fruits and vegetables right to your door.

Grocery Delivery Services in NYC to Get You Through the Pandemic

When there are no Peapod or Amazon Fresh time slots, there is still grocery delivery.

Kids as young as age 10 can help load and unload the dishwasher.

Chore Charts for Kids: Age-by-Age Lists and Free Printables

There's no better time to enlist your kids help with housework. Here are age-appropriate tasks.

Photo by Ally Noel

Working From Home with Kids: A Big List of Activities To Keep Kids Busy

Juggling homeschooling while maintaining a work schedule is not easy. These ideas help.

Give your kids a little educational screen time with these app picks. Photo by Patricia Prudente/Unsplash

Best Reading, Spelling, and Writing Apps for Kids

Let kids master everything from handwriting to phonics and grammar with these picks.

Teach 'em to tie during downtime.

65 Life Skills to Teach Kids at Every Age

It's not a bad time to go back to basics, especially when we have the kids' full attention.

Photo by Annie Spratt/Unsplash

Best Math Apps for Kids

These mostly free apps to reinforce math concepts learned during the school year.

Pull out a block, place it on top but don't let the tower fall in the fun and challenging Jenga.

Best Board Games for All Ages: Two Dozen Picks for Family Game Night

Pandemic playtime is lots of fun with these all-ages pleasing picks.

These funny jokes for kids will have them laughing in no time!

40 Jokes for Kids That Will Keep the Whole Family in Giggles

Everyone can get into the gag with easy-to-remember jokes for kids.

25 Exercise Games and Indoor Activities to Get Kids Moving

Try our list of 25 easy indoor exercise ideas to get everyone moving, laughing, and tired out.

25 STEM Activities Easy Enough for Preschoolers

DIY projects for your smallest tinkerers, explorers, and scientists.

Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

64 Easy Science Experiments for Kids to Do at Home

Execute mind-blowing science experiments with stuff you have around the house.

These free online classes and educational resources are perfect for homeschooling and remote learning..

30+ (Mostly FREE) Online Learning Resources, Apps, and Games for Kids

Supplement distance learning with these online lessons, apps, and more.

Best Podcasts for Kids Staying In: Funny, Smart, and Scientific Podcasts

There's never been a better time for podcasts. Prepare to download.

Code.org is a great jumping off point for kids new to programming.

Coding Programs for Kids: Free and Cheap Websites That Teach Kids Programming

These online programs teach your kid how to code, build websites, apps, and more.

Watch your sketch appear in this invisible ink science experiment!

Science Experiments for Kids: How to Make Invisible Ink

Write secret messages with this simple invisible ink recipe.

Teach your kids how to make rock candy for an easy rainy day project. Photo courtesy of Wikivisuals

How to Make Rock Candy with Kids

This rock candy recipe is easy to make at home.

Code.org is a great jumping off point for kids new to programming.

Coding Programs for Kids: Free and Cheap Websites That Teach Kids Programming

These online programs teach your kid how to code, build websites, apps, and more.

Stocking up your cart in light of covid-19? Try these easy meal combos.

Pandemic Shopping? 15 Easy Trader Joe's Recipes for Families

Easy, kid-friendly meal ideas from Trader Joe's freezer aisle and more.

Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

64 Easy Science Experiments for Kids to Do at Home

Execute mind-blowing science experiments with stuff you have around the house.

Kids can while away hours of a day with a set of watercolors and a stack of new paper for painting.

Crafts for Kids: 100 Awesome Art Projects for Creative At-Home Fun

Bookmark this blockbuster list of arts and crafts and never run out of ideas for creative play.

Riding the SeaGlass Carousel in downtown Manhattan. Photo by Anna Afanaseva via Flickr

100 Things To Do in NYC with Kids Before They Grow Up

Discover 100 awesome things to do in NYC year-round.

Boredom Busters for Kids

Crafts, recipes, games, projects, and experiments to spark kids' imaginations!

See our local DEALS page.

This Week In
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Bronx Zoo: Boo at the Zoo
The Bronx Zoo - 11:00 AM Pick

The Amazing Maize Maze at Queens County Farm
Queens County Farm Museum - 11:00 AM Pick

Jack and the Beanstalk
Puppetworks Inc. - 12:30 PM Pick

Journey to the Stars
Brooklyn Bridge Park - 8:30 PM Pick

Six Flags Great Adventure's All-New Hallowfest
Six Flags Great Adventure - various times Pick

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Latest Articles

Not-So-Scary Halloween Events for NYC Preschoolers

Jody Mercier , Oct 23 - These Halloween events are just the right speed for little revelers. READ MORE

Macy's Santaland Goes Virtual for Socially Distant Santa Visits in 2020

Jody Mercier , Oct 22 - Meet Santa online via Macy's Santaland at Home. READ MORE

Private Movie Screenings Are $99 at AMC Movie Theaters Near You—and Going Fast!

Roberta B, Oct 22 - Who misses seeing a movie in a movie theater? Get ready to recline and indulge.READ MORE

Things To Do in NYC This Weekend and Beyond: Meet a Monster, No-Contact Trick-or-Treating, and More

Drew Kristofik, Oct 21 - Get a jump-start on Halloween fun with our event picks. READ MORE

Mystic, Connecticut with Kids: Top Things to Do on a Weekend Getaway

Ally Noel, Oct 20 - With its charming seaport and renowned aquarium, Mystic, CT offers year-round family fun.READ MORE

Brooklyn and Queens Beer Gardens Where Kids Are Welcome

Louise Finnell, Oct 19 - NYC's best beer gardens and halls where families can raise their glasses. READ MORE

Immerse yourself in all the spectacular colors of the season at NYBG. Photo courtesy of NYBG

30 Things We Can't Wait to Do This Fall in NYC

Here are the seasonal favorites and reopenings that have us actually excited for fall.

Trek the candy trail, take a ride on the Bug Carousel, and take in pumpkin carving demos at The Bronx Zoo's Boo at the Zoo. Photo by Ally Noel

The Best Halloween Events for NYC Families in 2020

Halloween 2020 might be different, but it's no less fun with these awesome event picks.

Trees festooned with pumpkins are among the attractions at Skylands Stadium's Jack-o'-Lantern Experience. Photo courtesy of Skylands Stadium

Drive-Thru Halloween Attractions in the Tri-State Area For Safe 2020 Thrills

Hop in the car for a spooky night out at these drive-thru haunts.

Test your comfort zone at the Bronx Zoo's Treetop Adventure..

Adventure Parks, Zip Lines, and Ropes Courses Near NYC

Release your inner daredevil at these treetop-skimming parks.

The Skytop Lodge has family activities for every season. Photo courtesy of the lodge

14 Fall Weekend Family Getaways Near NYC

Colorful foliage, hiking, even luxury digs: Plan your fall escape.

Get lost in the giant corn maze at Hurds Family Farm.

Best Corn Mazes to Visit with Kids Near NYC

Corn mazes of every variety await just outside the city.