25 Things To Do in Rye with Kids

Don't miss a ride on the iconic Dragon Coaster at Playland Park. Photo courtesy of the park
Don't miss a ride on the iconic Dragon Coaster at Playland Park. Photo courtesy of the park
6/11/23 - By Lisa Johnston

While Rye, New York, is probably best known for its famous theme park, Playland, the small city is bursting with plenty of other family-friendly features, including excellent community facilities, parks, shops, restaurants, and attractions—all within a 45-minute train ride of Manhattan.

It's no wonder that Rye and the Village of Rye Brook are among the most sought-after areas to live in Westchester. We've gathered a list of our favorite things to do with kids in Rye, both indoors and out, below. 

Looking for more family fun? Consult our Event Calendar for our daily picks. 

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Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Playland Park
Playland Park is one of the area's top amusement parks. Photo by Mommy Poppins

Top Attractions in Rye for Families

1. Visit Playland

Ride the famous Dragon Coaster or choose from many more options—including an entire kiddie area—at the iconic Rye Playland amusement park.

2. Get outside at Crawford Park

Spend the day at Crawford Park—a 36-acre preserve in Rye Brook that houses an early 20th-century mansion, picnic pavilion, playground, walking trail, and a large lawn.

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Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Westchester Children's Museum
Create, play, and explore at the Westchester Children's Museum. Photo courtesy of the museum

3. STEM it up at the Children’s Museum

Spend an afternoon building, creating, and exploring at the Westchester Children’s Museum with fellow mini-makers

4. Learn about history

Brush up on area history with a fun-filled day of learning at the Jay Heritage Center. Choose from a tour of the mansion or hang out on the grounds.

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Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Rye Beach
The Rye Town Park & Beach is a popular destination each summer. Photo courtesy of the town

5. Hit the beach

Enjoy fun in the sun at Rye Town Park & Beach, one of Westchester's few swimming areas where proof of residency isn't required.

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Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Rye Nature Center
The Rye Nature Center holds year-round programs for children, including camps and workshops. Photo courtesy of the center

Free Things to Do in Rye with Kids

14. Take in the views

Head to Rye Hills Park for stunning views of the Long Island Sound (plus basketball courts and a walking trail).

15. Commune with nature

Spend a day exploring Rye Nature Center, including the wooden playground and trails, which are free. Or, opt for one of the center's programs or events.

16. Visit the library

Check out the extensive children’s events and programming and take in the gorgeous grounds of the Rye Free Reading Room.

17. Experience nature

Get the entire family outside at the Marshlands Conservancy, a wildlife sanctuary comprised of freshwater ponds, trees, and hiking trails.

18. Window shop

Take a stroll down picturesque Purchase Street for some window (or actual) shopping, fantastic dining options, and more.

19. Hit the playground  

Have fun at Garibaldi Park playing tennis, basketball, or baseball–or just enjoy a romp in its great playground.

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Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Bareburger
Get the massive onion rings at Bareburger—you won't regret it. Photo courtesy of the restaurant.

Best Eats in Rye with Kids

20. Go for burgers

Bring the family to Bareburger for burgers, onion rings, and milkshakes—hey, they’re organic!

21. Find something for everyone

For a true kid-friendly and delicious meal, dining at the historic Rye Grill & Bar—with its clam strips and sliders—is a must.

22. Dine by the water

Enjoy lunch or dinner by the water at the newly opened Tiki Beach, which includes a beer garden.  

23. Have something sweet

Try a nostalgic treat at The Snackery Bakeshop, which offers fresh takes on Moon Pies, Twinkies, and more.

24. Try a nut-free treat

For a nut-free sweet treat (or a gluten- or sugar-free option) stop into Cerbone’s Bakery, where you’ll find delicious confections, ices, and cakes.

Things To Do in Rye with Kids: Longford's Own-Made Ice Cream
It's always a good day to sample some ice cream at Longford's. Photo courtesy of the shop

25. Don’t forget the ice cream

If you prefer ice cream, you can’t go wrong with one of the many homemade flavors at Longford’s, a Westchester staple.

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