If you have a non-athletic child, you can still find ways to bond with him or her through non-competitive physical activities. We’ve compiled a guide to parks, rinks, and other sports centers in Brooklyn that offer healthy and fun activities – like biking, bowling, and table tennis – for all ages.
Get off the Couch! Go…
…GAMING
Brooklyn Bowl
Williamsburg; (718) 963-3369; www.brooklynbowl.com
They may host the who’s who of the hipster community by night, but from 12-6pm every Saturday and Sunday, the Bowl holds Family Day, where parents and children rule the lanes.
Brooklyn Table Tennis Club
Flatbush; (718) 421-2200; www.nisonsttc.com
A great, local table tennis facility that offers personal lessons and classes for children and adults. There is also a league tournament for kids every Sunday at 2:30pm, along with space for birthday parties and meetings.
Dynamo Table Tennis Club
Brighton Beach; (917) 442-4295; www.dynamottc.com
Learn forehand and backhand techniques from USATT National Certified Coach, Oleg Zalesskiy, or just come for relaxed fun-players of all ages and skill sets welcome.
…BOATING
Prospect Park
Park Slope; (718) 282-7789; www.prospectpark.org
In addition to its myriad outdoor activity facilities, Prospect Park is home to a 60-acre lake. Park visitors are encouraged to rent pedal boats from Wollman Rink and explore the tranquil waters. Boat rental is $15 (plus tax and a $10 refundable deposit); available through October 11th.
…BIKING
Bike and Roll
Prospect Park; (212) 260-0400; www.bikeandroll.com
Rent bikes for the whole family in Prospect Park for an hourly rate or all-day use.
Back to our complete Alternative Sports Guide for the NY Metro Area