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What Family Memberships Are Worth It in NYC for Winter?

When the weather turns cold and outdoor play is limited, memberships to NYC’s museums and play spaces are more than a convenience. They’re winter survival tools for families. Instead of buying individual tickets every time you need a few hours of fun or enrichment, memberships give you unlimited entry and perks that make frequent visits feel effortless and affordable. Over the winter months, when indoor outings become the default, memberships can turn a rainy or snowy day into something everyone looks forward to.

Plus, museum memberships aren’t just about limiting costs; they offer exclusive experiences, from members-only hours, early access to popular exhibits, discounts on events and gift shops, and special programming designed for kids and families. 

Which Memberships Save Families the Most Money?

The math needed for deciding whether a membership is “worth it” is simple: compare the annual cost of the membership to what you’d spend on daily admission tickets for the whole family.

For example, if a museum charges $15–$30 per person for general admission (and more for special exhibits), a family of four paying admission twice could already exceed the cost of an annual membership. Multiply that across multiple visits, and the savings add up fast... especially in winter, when a cozy museum visit might be your go-to outing. So if a family membership costs $100 and tickets would cost $25 per person, a family of four only needs two visits (4 × $25 × 2 = $200) to cover what you’d otherwise spend on entry alone. That doesn’t include member perks like discounts or priority access. 

Before we discuss museum memberships, we want to mention the Association of Science-Technology Centers' Passport Program, which potentially gets you no-cost admission to hundreds of museums around the world. Many NYC museums take part, which means a membership at one may get you FREE general admission at others. The Brooklyn Children's Museum, New York Transit Museum, New York Hall of Science, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and MoMath are all part of the ASTC Passport Program. However, rules vary by institution and some distance requirements apply, so be sure to inquire about the restrictions on the ASTC Passport Program before purchasing a membership. There are also discount benefits to NYC institutions that come with the IDNYC card.

Best NYC Museum Memberships for Families in NYC

Below are some of our top membership picks for families trying to beat winter cabin fever or who just want a fun family adventure.

1. American Museum of Natural History – Upper West Side

Annual cost: ~$179 (Family) 
Daily visit cost: Adult ~$28, Children ~$16 (plus exhibits) 
Break-even visits: ~2–3 visits per year

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
The Natural History Museum is a perennial kid favorite — dinosaurs, the giant blue whale, space shows, gems, and rotating special exhibits keep kids asking to go back. Membership also includes free general admission and free special exhibit tickets all year, so once you’re in, you can jump into new experiences without extra fees. Since general admission is only suggested for NY State residents, it's hard to say exactly how much you save as a member. However, special-exhibit tickets are sold at a set rate (and chances are you want to see them), so a family of four must visit just twice a year to make it worthwhile. Another perk to membership: Early access to new galleries when they open.

Pro tip: Members often enjoy preview days for new exhibits and member hours with lighter crowds, perfect for winter weekends. 

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – Midtown Manhattan

Annual cost: ~$75 Annual Pass 
Daily visit cost: ~$25–$30 adult, ~$14 child (varies)
Break-even visits: ~2–3 visits

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
MoMA’s manageable size and ever-changing modern and contemporary art exhibits make it ideal for repeat visits. Kids love discovering new artworks, and the variety keeps even grown-ups interested. 

Pro tip: Membership includes $5 guest tickets, member-only viewing hours, free film entry, and 10% off at MoMA stores.

3. Children’s Museum of Manhattan – Upper West Side

Annual cost: $305 (Family), $125 (Mini 3-month) 
Daily visit cost: ~$16 per person 
Break-even visits: ~4–6 visits (varies by membership tier)

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
CMOM offers hands-on, kid-centric exhibits and play areas that feel fresh every time you visit. From sand and water play to imaginative role-play zones, little ones especially beg to return. 

Pro tip: Pick the Mini membership in winter if you’re unsure about committing; you can later apply it toward a full year and still enjoy benefits like early access and store discounts. 

4. New-York Historical Society – Upper West Side

Annual cost: ~$160 for family 
Daily visit cost: ~$22 adult, ~$6–$13 children 
Break-even visits: ~3–4 visits

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
It’s one of the few places with history-themed hands-on programming that families enjoy together, and members get invites to seasonal events like Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade balloon inflation viewing parties — a winter classic. If you are a family of three, it pays off in just over three visits, a family of four in just under three visits, depending on the age of your kids. Tots, of course, are FREE all the time, so you may want to just buy the individual membership at $100 or the dual at $135. If you have teens, though, it pays off even sooner, as they would be paying the student price.

Pro tip: The younger kids often love the DiMenna Children’s History Museum inside, and membership usually means priority invites to family workshops and kids’ days. 

5. New York Hall of Science – Queens

Annual cost: ~$100 family 
Daily visit cost: ~$16 adult, ~$13 for children ages 2-17; those under age 2 are free
Break-even visits: ~2 visits

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
This STEM-inspired learning spot has plenty of fun, engaging exhibits to please all ages and keep guests returning time and time again.

Pro tip: Many families pair science museum visits with outdoor playtime at nearby parks on milder winter days; membership keeps the indoor part affordable. 

6. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling – Harlem

Annual cost: ~$100 family
Daily visit cost: ~$7 adult; ~$4 for children ages 9–17; free for children 8 and younger
Break-even visits: ~4–7 visits

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
This arts-focused children's museum is part gallery, part creative space, and fun, family-friendly programming dominates the scene. The space is cavernous, and kids aren't discouraged from romping (within reason). On a past visit, we created plenty of art in the studio, built hula hoops in the living room, and staged a dance party, too. No one batted an eye. Because this museum is so reasonably priced if you have little kids, you'd have to visit 4-7 times in a year to get your money's worth. The space is cool; the galleries rotate regularly, and there are plenty of art supplies for kids and adults.

Pro tip: Because daily admission is already very affordable, this membership makes the most sense for families who live nearby or plan to visit often. Weekday visits tend to be quieter and allow kids more freedom to explore the galleries and studios.

6. Staten Island Children's Museum – Staten Island

Annual cost: ~$100 family
Daily visit cost: ~$10 per person ages 1 and older
Break-even visits: ~3-4 visits

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
Located within the beautiful Snug Harbor Cultural Center, this children’s museum offers hands-on, imaginative play that appeals to younger kids. Interactive exhibits like the bug room, oversized games, and pretend-play stations give families plenty of reasons to return.

Pro tip: Plan your visit to include time outdoors at Snug Harbor on milder winter days. While the museum participates in the ASTC Passport Program, reciprocal admission does not apply within 90 miles, so local families benefit most from an annual membership.

Which Play Space Memberships Are Worth It for Winter in NYC

When snowy, icy, or frigid weather keeps you inside, having a go-to indoor play membership gives your family a place to burn energy, socialize, and keep boredom away. Some memberships work like social clubs with classes and perks, while others give you unlimited or discounted access to open play. Memberships tend to pay off if you plan to go weekly or multiple times per month, and you can often bring guests or siblings at reduced rates. 

1. Complete Playground – Financial District 

Annual cost: Approx. $3,299–$4,298/year (varies by tier) 
Daily visit cost: Open play ~$35–$45 (adult & child) 
Break-even visits: ~80–100 visits/year

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
Complete Playground combines open play, classes, events, and discounts, perfect for families who want a home base for winter play. It’s huge, sensory inclusive, and kids often beg to return for climbing structures, sensory spaces, and creative rooms. 

Pro tip: Membership bonuses like discounts on birthday parties, classes, and guest passes make this worthwhile if you go most weeks. Arrive mid-week or mid-day to beat weekend crowding. 

2. The Rainbow Play Space – East Village 

Monthly cost: ~$325/mo (annual also available) 
Daily visit cost: ~$30 per child drop-in 
Break-even visits: ~11–12 visits (monthly) / ~45–60 visits (annual)

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
Rainbow Play Space blends open play with classes and special member events. Kids love the creative play areas and themed experiences. The monthly plan is easy to try in the winter, while the annual plan unlocks daily play plus extra perks.

Pro tip: Weekday mornings are less crowded and let your child explore more freely. Guest passes and party discounts are extra bonuses. 

3. Create & Play Club – Multiple NYC Locations

Monthly cost: $95–$168/mo (tiered) 
Daily visit cost: Drop-in varies by class/play pricing locally
Break-even visits: ~8–12 visits (depending on tier)

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
Create & Play focuses on classes and creative workshops. This is great for families who want structured fun and playtime. Kids who enjoy themed or art-focused drop-ins get more value from membership than paying per class. 

Pro tip: Choose the Classic membership if you want a blend of consistency and flexibility. You’ll save if you attend most classes each month. 

4. HAPIK – Industry City/Brooklyn 

Monthly cost: ~$59–$69/mo per person with perks 
Daily visit cost: ~$15–$30 per climbing session (standard) 
Break-even visits: ~3–5 visits/month

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
HAPIK is different from traditional play spaces; it’s more like a family adventure zone with climbing walls, ropes, and physical challenges. Kids and adults alike get activity, which makes winter days more active than passive indoor play. 

Pro tip: Members get priority check-in, event invites, sibling discounts, and snack bar savings.

5. Space Club – Brooklyn (Greenpoint, Fort Greene, Dumbo)

Annual cost: ~$3,229 family (about $269/month with annual payment) 
Daily visit cost: ~$39 single pass (includes one child + one adult for 2 hours) 
Break-even visits: ~8–10 visits (based on typical $39 single passes vs. membership cost)

If you only get one membership, make it this one because:
Space Club offers a large, imaginative indoor play environment with slides, ball pits, creative zones, and sensory spaces that appeal to a wide range of ages. Unlimited drop-in play, weekday classes, movie nights, and discounts on cafe and parties make it a go-to spot for regular play dates and family outings. 

Pro tip: Most families break even if they visit monthly or more often. Membership includes free entry for two adults per visit, free classes, and member-only events. This is ideal if you’re looking for frequent indoor play during cold months. Weekday visits tend to be less crowded than weekends.

Are Zoo and Aquarium Memberships Worth It in the Winter?

Wildlife Conservation Society – Citywide

Yes! In NYC, the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) family passes are a huge winter value. A WCS membership grants you access to four zoos (the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, and Queens Zoo) plus the New York Aquarium for one year. While some zoo animals may be hiding indoors or off exhibit this time of the year, a visit to the Bronx Zoo's Jungle World, Central Park's Tropic Zone, or the newest exhibits at the aquarium just may cure your cabin fever on a cold day.

Zoo and aquarium admissions can quickly add up, and with a WCS family membership carved out for multi-site access, families often break even in just 1–2 visits when you count the cost of individual tickets across all locations. Plus membership perks include discounts on food, retail, educational programs, special events, and guest tickets, and many sites offer members-only evening hours or seasonal events like Holiday Lights at the Bronx Zoo. 

More Ways to Save on Museum Visits This Winter

Here are some smart budget-friendly strategies to keep museum costs down during indoor months:

• NYC Public Library Culture Pass: Reserve free timed passes to many cultural institutions (museums, zoos, gardens) using your library card.

• Free or Pay-What-You-Wish Days: Many museums have scheduled free days or late-nights with reduced pricing — plan visits around these.

• City and Borough Passes: Look into NYC Go City or other passes if you plan sightseeing — they often include skip-the-line perks and bundled admissions.

• Off-Peak Timed Entry: Going during school hours or weekday afternoons usually means cheaper or easier reservations.

• Special Winter Exhibits: Members often get priority access and discounts for high-demand exhibits that might sell out otherwise.

• Reciprocal Networks: Some memberships (esp. larger museum systems) participate in reciprocal programs that give you free or reduced entry in other cities.

NYC museum memberships can easily pay for themselves in just a few visits, especially during winter when indoor programming becomes a staple of family life. Whether you want hands-on fun, art exploration, or science adventures, picking the right membership can stretch your entertainment budget and create repeat family traditions. 

FAQs for Money-Saving Memberships in NYC

What family memberships in NYC are worth buying for winter?
The best winter memberships are ones you’ll use multiple times between December and March. Museum memberships tend to pay off the fastest, while indoor play space memberships are ideal for families with young kids. Zoo and aquarium memberships also offer strong value thanks to indoor exhibits and multi-location access.

How many times do you need to visit for a membership to pay off?
Most family memberships break even after two to four visits, depending on ticket prices and family size. Play space memberships usually make sense if you plan to visit weekly. After the break-even point, additional visits are free.

Do museum memberships include special exhibits?
Many museum memberships include free or discounted access to special exhibits that would otherwise cost extra. Higher-level family memberships typically include the most perks, so it’s worth reviewing what’s included before purchasing.

Can IDNYC provide free membership perks at museums?
Yes. IDNYC offers free one-year memberships to many NYC museums and cultural institutions. These usually include general admission but may not include all paid-member perks, making them a good way to try a museum before committing.

Which play space memberships are best for toddlers?
Play spaces with open-ended and sensory-based play tend to work best for toddlers. Memberships are most worthwhile for families planning frequent winter visits when outdoor play is limited.

Are zoo and aquarium memberships worth it in winter?
Yes. WCS family memberships cover five NYC zoos and the New York Aquarium, many with indoor exhibits. Families often break even in one or two visits, and winter crowds are typically lighter.

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The grocery store at Twinkle Playspace offers a wonderland of discovery. Photo courtesy of the play space

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Brooklyn Children's Museum's Totally Tots is a play space unto itself. Photo courtesy of the museum

RELATED: Museum Birthday Party Places in NYC: 10 Celebration-Worthy Culture Spots

Creativity shines at Sugar Hill Children's Museum of Art & Storytelling. Photo by Janet Bloom

RELATED: See Bronx Zoo Like a Local: Top Tips for a Great Visit with Kids

The Madagascar exhibit at the Bronx Zoo features a host of lemur species. Photo by Julie Larsen Mahar for WCS

A version of this post was published in 2017; it is updated annually.