15 Great Family Summer Experiences In and Around New York 2025
In Partnership with Visit Rochester
Summer in and around New York is overflowing with opportunities to get out, explore, and make memories as a family. Whether you’re city-based or coming in from the suburbs, there’s no shortage of day trips and adventures just a quick car, train, or ferry ride away. From outdoor fun and cultural experiences to hidden gems and classic local spots, there’s something for every family to love. So start planning—these nearby summer activities are ready when you are.
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Adventureland
2245 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale
Since 1962, Adventureland has been a go-to spot for families seeking classic amusement park fun on Long Island. Still family-owned and operated, the park blends nostalgic charm with modern thrills, offering a mix of timeless attractions like the Ferris Wheel and Carousel alongside adrenaline-pumping rides such as the FireBall Coaster and the spinning Turbulence Coaster. With dozens of rides, midway games, and hands-on attractions, it’s designed to engage kids, teens, and adults alike, making it a rare find for multi-generational outings. Kiddie Land entertains younger visitors with gentle rides like the farm train and helicopters, while older kids race from roller coasters to arcade games without missing a beat.
Adventureland’s layout makes it easy to navigate, and its compact size ensures families can spend a full day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The park’s food court and concession stands offer familiar favorites like pizza, chicken tenders, and fries, while Tony’s Tavern gives adults a place to unwind with a cold local beer or wine slushy. For a break from the summer heat, families can cool off in the air-conditioned arcade or grab an unlimited refill with a souvenir drink cup. Just under an hour from the city and Westchester, and accessible from major highways, Adventureland is an easy day trip and a low-tech alternative for families looking to unplug and reconnect. With its clean, safe setting and broad age appeal, it remains a beloved destination that encourages visitors of all ages to embrace the joy of play. Visit adventureland.us for more information.
Cross County
8000 Mall Walk, Yonkers
Summer Fest returns to Cross County Center in Yonkers with a full slate of free outdoor events designed to engage the whole community. The seasonal series offers entertainment and activities in a welcoming, open-air setting, from live music and dance nights to fitness classes and hands-on art workshops. Live concerts are scheduled Wednesday evenings from June through August, with performances by local and regional acts including Showtime Dance Band, Men of Soul, Willie Villegas Y Entre Amigos, Ras Droppa, and FDR Drive Band. New this year are Salsa Dancing Nights, scheduled on select Mondays, which pair energetic Latin music with beginner-friendly instruction from professional dancers.
Fitness offerings like free Zumba classes led by Yonkers native Guillermo Ruiz are held on Thursdays, while Blink Fitness hosts a weekly outdoor boot camp. On select Sundays, the No Limit Ninja Obstacle Course adds a dose of adventure with challenges geared toward both kids and adults.
Paint & Sip Nights invite adults to unwind with guided painting sessions and wine, while the ArtsWestchester Mobile Art Workshops provide family-friendly crafting activities that rotate throughout the season.
With most events free and open to the public, Summer Fest 2025 aims to provide accessible cultural and recreational programming in a retail center that doubles as a community hub. For a complete calendar and event updates, visit crosscountycenter.com.
Historic Hudson Valley
381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow
Step back in time on Summer Saturdays at Philipsburg Manor. Looking for a family outing that’s fun, educational, and screen-free? Head to Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow for Summer Saturdays, running from July 5 through August 30.
This interactive, hands-on experience allows kids (and parents!) to explore 18th-century life and modern-day fun. Each Saturday features a new theme to spark curiosity and creativity. From Ginger the Barn Cat’s birthday celebration to make-and-take crafts like candle-dipping and baking clay in our beehive oven, there’s something for every age and interest. Families can learn about honeybees, try their hand at weaving, or explore gardening—all while discovering New York’s colonial past. The manor house will be open for tours throughout the day, and visitors can watch the working gristmill come to life as we grind flour and cornmeal just as it was done centuries ago.
Admission includes all activities. Historic Hudson Valley members attend free (a great deal that includes free Pumpkin Blaze tickets!). For Westchester families seeking summer adventures with meaning, Philipsburg Manor’s Summer Saturdays offer a perfect mix of play, learning, and discovery. Plan your visit at hudsonvalley.org.
IT Adventure Ropes
40 Sargent Dr., New Haven, CT
Located inside Jordan’s Furniture in New Haven, Connecticut, IT Adventure Ropes Course is the largest indoor ropes course in the world, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. This one-of-a-kind attraction features a four-level ropes course filled with more than 100 challenges and obstacles, including rope ladders, swinging beams, and zigzag crossings. Designed with freedom of movement in mind, the course allows participants to choose their own path and pace, making every adventure personalized and exciting.
IT Adventure’s thrilling zip rails are seamlessly integrated into the course, letting guests soar through the air from one end to the other. The Little IT ropes course provides a safe and engaging experience for younger adventurers, designed for toddlers and small children under 48 inches tall. Parents can stay close to supervise and assist as needed, making it a true family-friendly destination. IT Adventure Ropes Course offers birthday party packages, group discounts, private buyouts, and membership options for frequent visitors. Its versatility makes it ideal for a variety of events, from school field trips and summer camps to team-building outings and corporate retreats.
The safe, scalable, fun, age-inclusive environment makes the IT Adventure Ropes Course a standout experience. Whether a unique weekend activity or a special celebration, IT provides an exhilarating and memorable experience unlike anything else in the region. itatjordans.com
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk
500 Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach
Since 1928, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk in Point Pleasant Beach has been the perfect destination for a fun-filled, family-friendly escape to the Jersey Shore. With a wide variety of attractions and activities for all ages, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Spend the day relaxing on the beautiful mile-long beach, exploring the fascinating aquarium, riding the exciting amusement park rides, or shopping and dining along the boardwalk. From classic arcade games to sweet treats and oceanfront views, Jenkinson’s Boardwalk offers endless opportunities for creating unforgettable memories.
Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has family-friendly events all summer: Fireworks on the beach every Thursday night at dark starting June 19, Christmas in July on July 22-23, beach concerts, a dinosaur, science, and magic events throughout the summer. Jenkinson’s Boardwalk has everything families need to enjoy a weekend getaway or summer vacation at the Jersey Shore. See jenkinsons.com to plan a visit to Jenkinson’s Boardwalk this summer.
Joan and Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island Summer Swim Club
1466 Manor Road, Staten Island
The Joan and Alan Bernikow JCC of Staten Island offers a safe, welcoming, family-friendly space to beat the heat with its Summer Swim Club, open seasonally and designed with both fun and comfort in mind. The outdoor pool features a playful figure-8 slide that’s a hit with kids, while parents can relax on the grassy lounge area under canopies or soak up the sun on comfortable deck chairs. The club hosts regular events, like holiday-themed pool parties and family activities, making it the perfect spot for community connection. In addition to the vibrant summer atmosphere, the Swim Club offers amenities like full-service locker rooms and convenient café delivery for poolside meals. Families who love Summer Swim Club can keep the momentum going beyond summer by upgrading to a WellPro membership, which grants access to the JCC’s indoor pool, fitness center, family programs, and exclusive discounts throughout the year. Opening Memorial Day Weekend, the JCC is an easy way for Staten Island families to stay active, social, and cool all summer long. sijcc.org/ssc
Land of Make Believe
354 Great Meadows Road, Hope, NJ
Just a short drive from the city, the Land of Make Believe is where generations of families have come to step outside the ordinary, where nostalgia, imagination, and joy come together to create unforgettable family memories. The Land of Make Believe isn’t just another amusement park—it’s a beloved American treasure. This iconic amusement and water park in Hope, NJ, is where parents can feel like kids again, and kids have the time of their lives.
From nostalgic rides to a massive water park, The Land of Make Believe is a wholesome, safe, and affordable destination designed for the whole family. Whether zooming down slides, spinning through the sky, or catching a live show, it’s a full day of incredible family fun. Plus, the bonus of free parking, free waterpark access, and the option to bring a picnic lunch make this magical experience budget-friendly. It’s no wonder families return year after year. The Land of Make Believe is the perfect day trip that delivers big on fun and even bigger on family memories. lomb.com
Long Island Game Farm
489 Chapman Blvd. Manorville
The Long Island Game Farm introduces a new kind of experience this summer with the Songbird Sessions, an outdoor concert series that blends live music, wildlife, and nature. Set on the Game Farm’s scenic grounds in Manorville, the Songbird Sessions take place Saturday evenings on the new Susan M. Novak Stage. Each show begins with a unique introduction featuring resident animals, offering a playful and educational prelude to performances by local and touring musicians. Guests can opt for a memorable capybara encounter before the show (advance tickets required). Dining options are available, and parking is free.
The lineup includes a mix of solo artists and groups, from regional favorites like Jack Licitra and Inda Eaton to nationally recognized performers like the Adam Ezra Group. Family-friendly acts like Brady Rymer with The Rising Stars round out the season. Presented by the Foundation for Wildlife Sustainability, the series supports the ongoing conservation and educational mission of the Long Island Game Farm. The setting invites families to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and enjoy music under the trees, offering a unique cultural addition to a beloved local institution.
For concert dates and ticket information, visit wildlifesustainability.org.
Monster Mini Golf
Upon entering Monster Mini Golf, all perceptions of traditional mini golf will be spirited away by the indoor, 18-hole, monster-themed, glow-in-the-dark miniature golf course! Deer Park and Garden City locations invite guests to experience a host of family-oriented fun activities. Whether visiting for the first time or the one hundredth, mini-golfers feel the excitement and adventure of playing mini golf amidst spooktacular monsters and custom, glow-in-the-dark, hand-painted artwork. While testing their skill on the fairways, lively music flows over the course from the unique “WEIRD Radio” station, and an interactive DJ entertains golfers with contests, awarding cool prizes for the wackiest reasons. While the course is challenging enough for adults, it is also quite playable for children.
Monster Mini Golf is open year-round and frightfully fun for the entire family. In addition to miniature golf and thrilling arcade and redemption games, the locations offer additional attractions. Monster Mini Golf in Deer Park offers a laser maze and a virtual reality experience, while the Garden City location has a laser maze, bowling, and a virtual reality experience. Two very posh, private party rooms are also available and are perfect for any event. Monster Mini Golf looks forward to making it a monstrous success. Monster Mini Golf is indoors, ensuring the event will always occur, regardless of the weather. It is a climate-controlled, affordable source of family entertainment. monsterminigolf.com
Museum of Jewish Heritage — a Living Memorial to the Holocaust
36 Battery Place, Manhattan
The Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the Holocaust is a place of learning and culture, where families can explore Jewish history and identity while ensuring Jewish values are passed from generation to generation (l’dor v’dor).
Located in Battery Park with sweeping views of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, the Museum invites visitors to spend a day immersed in learning and reflection. Highlights include the interactive exhibition Courage to Act: Rescue in Denmark, a powerful story of resistance and rescue during the Holocaust designed for visitors ages 9 and up. Using interactive storytelling and immersive media, it recounts how Danish citizens—Jewish and non-Jewish alike—mobilized to rescue 95% of Denmark’s Jewish population during the Holocaust. Those who remember reading Lois Lowry’s Number the Stars will appreciate this deeper look into the history behind the novel, brought to life through personal narratives, voice recordings, and hands-on features.
Other current exhibitions explore themes of identity, resilience, and remembrance. The Holocaust: What Hate Can Do presents personal stories, artifacts, and survivor testimonies that trace Jewish life before, during, and after the Holocaust. Ordinary Treasures: Highlights from the Museum’s Collection offers a look at everyday objects—photographs, letters, clothing—that illuminate personal histories and cultural heritage. The Museum is also home to the Kalikow Jewish Genealogical Research Center, where visitors can begin or continue to research their Jewish roots.
Beyond exhibitions, the Museum offers enriching experiences that engage the entire family. Guests can dine at the kosher LOX Café, which serves updated takes on Jewish and Russian dishes. Families can also explore the Garden of Stones, a contemplative outdoor installation by artist Andy Goldsworthy. With its diverse offerings, including many free public programs, the Museum creates a unique cross-generational experience rooted in history, remembrance, and discovery. mjhnyc.org
Perelman Performing Arts Center | PAC NYC
6 WTC, 251 Fulton St., Manhattan
This summer, the Perelman Performing Arts Center (PAC NYC) shines as Lower Manhattan’s home for family-friendly arts and entertainment. As the final chapter in the World Trade Center site’s revitalization, this eye-catching venue features three shape-shifting theaters and a dynamic lineup of performances spanning theater, dance, music, opera, and more. Its buzzy public lobby is open to the public all summer long. It offers free concerts, DJ sets, a rooftop terrace, and Metropolis by Marcus Samuelsson—a lively American restaurant with menu options for all ages.
From June 12 to 29, experience Passengers by Montréal’s acclaimed physical theatre troupe, The 7 Fingers. This 90-minute spectacle weaves cirque, music, and movement into an awe-inspiring adventure for the whole family. Critics hail it as a “full-throttle journey… guaranteed to leave you breathless.”
On July 12, PAC NYC hosts its annual Family Day from 10 am to 4 pm—a free, fun-filled event for all ages. Families can explore indoor and outdoor workshops, interactive creation stations, dance battles, live music, and more, celebrating the diverse stories and cultures of New York City through the magic of the arts. Whether you’re seeking thrilling performances or engaging family activities, PAC NYC offers unforgettable summer experiences in the heart of Lower Manhattan. PACnYC.org
Planet Hollywood NYC
136 W 42nd St., Manhattan
A few short blocks from Bryant Park in the heart of Midtown, Planet Hollywood NYC is the perfect spot for an easy, delicious, fun, family-friendly meal while exploring the city.
With its bold aesthetic, high-energy atmosphere, and menu designed to please even the pickiest eaters, this is where families come to refuel on crowd-pleasers like cheesy pizzas, piled-high burgers, and shareable appetizers. And yes, the milkshakes are as wild and over-the-top as summer should be.
Plenty of space for strollers, high chairs, and large groups makes it a go-to for birthday parties, team outings, or a much-needed sit-down after a busy day exploring Times Square. It’s casual, convenient, and fun—exactly what families need in the middle of a busy day in the city. It’s the perfect midtown stop for families looking to stay close to the action without sacrificing quality, comfort, or convenience.
If you find yourself in Midtown taking in the sights, stop by the new Planet Hollywood for an experience the whole family will remember. planethollywoodnyc.com
675 West 252nd St., Bronx
Wave Hill, a public garden and cultural center in the Bronx, has been inspiring generations of New Yorkers to slow down and reconnect with nature. Families are invited to roll down its great lawn, explore peaceful woodland trails, or simply walk barefoot in the grass. Clean, safe, and welcoming, Wave Hill is the perfect place to make cross-generational memories rooted in appreciation for the natural world.
The Family Art Project brings families together every weekend to create nature-inspired art in a relaxed, welcoming studio overlooking the gardens. This beloved program regularly sees three generations crafting side-by-side, connecting through creativity and nature.
This June 5–8, celebrate Wave Hill’s 60th Anniversary with a four-day festival packed with family fun and discovery. The celebration includes a special edition of the Family Art Project, Stories in the Garden, and Sunset Concerts (perfect for picnicking families). Don’t miss The Great Pollinator Ramble, an immersive puppet-led event by the artists behind the Village Halloween Parade, or grab a free hand-rolled ice cream from OnlyRareNYC.
Sunset Concerts continue through summer, and seasonal nature programs like A Salute to Trees celebrate the wonders of the natural world. See the full calendar for details. wavehill.org
185 Greenwich St., Manhattan
Located in the heart of Lower Manhattan, Westfield World Trade Center is a destination for families looking to shop, dine, and explore. With over 80 shops—including favorites like Sephora, Pandora, and Apple—and delicious dining options such as Eataly, Gansevoort Liberty Market, and Épicerie Boulud, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Easily accessible via most subway lines and the PATH train, Westfield WTC is a convenient and exciting choice for a day out with the family. Its iconic architecture provides a backdrop for adventure, sparking curiosity and conversation among visitors of all ages.
During the summer months, Westfield World Trade Center offers a variety of family-friendly activities. The Oculus Beer Garden is a welcoming outdoor space offering a relaxed atmosphere with beautiful city views, a variety of beverages, light bites, and live entertainment the whole family can enjoy. The Oculus floor transforms into an open-play piano zone every Monday and Thursday, inviting kids to express their creativity with music. Fridays bring the buzz of Smorgasburg, New York’s favorite outdoor food market, where families can sample an array of sweet and savory street food from local vendors. Download the Westfield app or visit westfield.com to discover the latest happenings, map out your visit, and make the most of all the family-friendly amenities available. westfield.com
WildPlay Jones Beach
2600 Ocean Parkway, Wantagh
WildPlay Jones Beach offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure experience just steps from the Atlantic, and it’s not just for summer—its season now runs through early November. Set along the shoreline, the park features four levels of high ropes courses and a 700-foot signature zipline that lets visitors soar with ocean views all around. It’s an active, screen-free way for families to spend time together, with options for every age and comfort level. Younger thrill-seekers (ages 5–12) can take on the dedicated Kids Course, complete with rope swings, cargo nets, and wobbly bridges designed just for them.
WildPlay’s flexible scheduling, extended hours, and a mix of adrenaline and accessibility make it a standout for spontaneous outings and planned group events. Whether it’s a post-school energy burn or a weekend challenge, the park’s scenic setup at Jones Beach adds an extra layer of wow. Package deals and group rates are available, and public school groups may qualify for full field trip coverage through New York State’s Connect Kids grant. And while the kids test their camp-honed climbing skills, grown-ups get to enjoy views of both the beach and the distant city skyline. With its emphasis on active fun and family bonding, WildPlay makes for a refreshing, high-energy alternative to a typical beach day. wildplay.com/jones-beach
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