In recent years, Astoria, Queens has become somewhat of a go-to destination for New York City families. It has a nice community vibe as well as tons of new restaurants and local shops. In fact, Astoria is pretty jam-packed with family-friendly attractions and activities to keep little ones entertained. So whether you are looking for child-friendly restaurants, a day at the museum, or a picnic in the park, you’ll find it in Astoria!
Ample Hills Astoria
The Brooklyn-based ice cream shop opened its first outpost in Queens, offering unique flavors such as Ooey Gooey Butter Cake with St. Louis-style butter cake blended with vanilla ice cream and The Commodore, which is a salted honey vanilla ice cream with homemade honeycomb candy and chocolate-covered potato chips. Be sure to look for the Astoria-only flavor called Nectar of the Queens that pays homage to Astoria’s predominantly Greek roots, with baklava and galaktoboureko (a custard pie with filo crust) from the local Artopolis Bakery with honey cinnamon ice cream.
34-02 30th Ave.; 347-242-2026
amplehills.com
Astoria Bookshop
This bookshop is a great place for kids to explore their love of reading. Every Thursday morning, Astoria Bookshop hosts Storytime! for toddlers. Other events include their Young Writers Workshop. Also, they often host children’s book authors for discussions and readings. Check the website for details; they are closed on Mondays.
31-29 31st St.; 718-278-2665; astoriabookshop.com
Astoria Bowl
For some fantastic fun for kids (and adults), why not pay a visit to Astoria Bowl? The recently refurbished center features 28 bowling lanes, a state of the art scoring system, which uses the latest computer technology, lane bumpers for the younger bowlers and special cosmic bowling nights. There’s also a dining area which offers some tasty food and snack options and a fully licensed bar where parents can have a drink and watch their favorite sports team in action.
Be sure to check out Astoria Bowl’s social media pages for news on special events, seasonal deals and promotions.
19-45 49th St.; 718-274-1910; astoriabowl.com
Astoria Park Pool
When the weather’s warm, there’s nothing better than a refreshing dip in the pool. Located in the picturesque setting of Astoria Park, this Olympic-sized pool provides the perfect environment for both serious and recreational swimmers. There’s a separate area for dedicated lap swimming plus NYC Parks offers free swimming classes for all ages. The pool is open throughout the summer months from 11:00am – 7:00pm.
19th Street and 23rd Drive; 718-626-8620; nycgovparks.org/parks/astoria-park
Astoria Sports Complex
Whether it’s fitness or family fun that motivates your visit, Astoria Sports Complex has a plethora of activities to keep everyone entertained and amused. The indoor complex facilities include a swimming pool, Jacuzzi, FIFA certified Astroturf soccer pitch, a fully equipped gym, and batting cages. The center also runs a wide variety of exercise classes including Pilates, Zumba, and aqua aerobics.
Check out the website for further information on membership packages or drop in day rates.
34-38 38th St.; 718-729-7163; thecomplex.nyc
Bareburger
Little ones will be spoiled for choice at Bareburger, an organic burger joint, that prides itself on using only free-range, hormone-free ingredients. The ‘Cubby Fare’ menu is perfect for junior appetites and offers a number of options including veggie or turkey burgers, chicken tenders, or a grilled cheese sandwich. For grown-ups, there’s an extensive range of burger patties to pick from – including bison, elk, wild boar, and duck.
33-21 31st Ave.; 718-777-7011; 33-21-31st-avenue.bareburger.com
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Bounce ‘N Play NY
Filled with giant inflatables, a jungle gym, and arcade games, this huge indoor play space offers plenty for energetic children to jump, crawl, and slide on. The main play area is designed for children 13 and younger with a separate dedicated zone for children 4 and younger. Adults are encouraged to join in the fun too! As well as the regular play sessions, the center also hosts birthday parties, mommy and me classes, and family open play nights.
20-21 Steinway St.; 718-777-7529; bouncenplayny.com
Gym-Azing
Looking for dance, art, or even music lessons for you or your children? Then Gym-Azing, a dedicated fitness and party center, is your destination. With everything from capoeira and ballet, to flamenco and Greek dancing, plus SocRoc toddler soccer classes and TRX workout sessions for adults, there’s a huge variety of classes and activities to suit all ages and abilities.
27-14 23rd Ave.; 347-455-3661; gym-azing.com
Museum of the Moving Image
Take your child to the Museum of the Moving Image and discover the history of movie technology through graphics, exhibits, artifacts, and optical toys. This interactive and kid-friendly museum lets visitors try their hand at directing and starring in a personalized flipbook, add sound effects to movies, and create stop-motion animations.
36-01 35th Ave.; 718-784-0077; movingimage.us
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Queens Library at Astoria
No matter how young your child is, Astoria Library has something to offer. From storytelling, author visits, computer time, or simply browsing the shelves, the library has a wealth of events and resources to keep children of all ages occupied – and learning – without them even realizing! There is also a Steinway and Broadway Branch.
14-01 Astoria Blvd.; 718-278-2220; queenslibrary.org/branch/Astoria
Rainey Park
While this park might be considered more Long Island City than Astoria, we’ll let it slide because of the stunning views of the East River and Manhattan skyline. This sizeable park has everything on hand to keep the kids entertained including a baseball/softball field, a children’s playground and climbing area.
Vernon Blvd. between 33rd Rd. and 34th Ave.; nycgovparks.org/parks/rainey-park
Raising Astoria
This local spot is a favorite among Astoria families. New and expectant parents can enroll in one of their many workshops like, Infant and Child CPR, Breastfeeding, or Potty Training. There is also a ton of kids classes like Preschool Alternative and Funkijam Music. They also have a daily open play session. Be sure to check the website for times.
26-11 23rd Ave., 718-440-9444; raisingastoria.com
The Strand Smokehouse
If barbecue is your thing, you definitely need to check this place out.The food is delicious and changes daily. It’s super casual, which is great for families with kids; you just place your order and head to a table of your choice. There is also plenty of space for your brood to roam around while they wait. They offer waiter service on the weekends, but it is generally much more busy then.
25-27 Broadway between Crescent and 29th streets.; 718-440-3231; thestrandsmokehouse.com
The Thirsty Koala
Get a taste of Down Under in the heart of Astoria by paying a visit to The Thirsty Koala. This popular eatery serves up an authentic Australian menu that’s guaranteed to please the grown-ups but will definitely appeal to the kids too. Adults can feast on Aussie favorites like kangaroo burgers, a variety of ‘jaffles’ (toasted sandwiches) and barramundi fish. Ravenous kids can choose from beef or chicken sliders or grilled chicken strips followed by a scoop of ice cream.
35-12 Ditmars Blvd.; 718-626-5430; thethirstykoala.com
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