2014 Winter Classes: Museum Classes

From fine art to cultural heritage, NYC’s world-class museums are a great resource for families. While no one should miss a visit to the biggies (Met, MoMA, and AMNH), don’t skip some of these lesser-known gems.

NEW MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Manhattan’s only all-contemporary art museum, the New Museum offers First Saturdays for Families with special hands-on programs designed for families with children ages 3-10. newmuseum.org

MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
At the Museum of the City of New York, Sunday family programs (for kids 6-12, free with museum admission) offer children and their caregivers a fun way to learn about NYC’s history through hands-on activities. Explore the museum through scavenger hunts designed for families to experience the museum together. mcny.org

THE JEWISH MUSEUM
Housed in the former Warburg Mansion, the Jewish Museum offers Sunday family programs free with museum admission. Drop-in art workshops, family audio guides, kids’ concerts, and even special programs during vacation weeks to keep the kids busy during school breaks are all offered. thejewishmuseum.org

EL MUSEO DEL BARRIO
Specializing in Latin American and Caribbean art, El Museo offers “Super Sabado” (third Saturday of every month). Latino art lovers of all ages enjoy free concerts, exhibitions, gallery tours, art workshops, and film screenings. elmuseo.org

NEW YORK TRANSIT MUSEUM
Explore the cultural, social and technological history of one of the world’s biggest public transportation systems. Every Saturday and Sunday, programs for young transit fans are offered free with museum admission. There are Grand Central Scavenger Hunts, and children and family programs—including “Fantastic Tunnels,” “Miles of Tiles,” and “Travelin’ Treats.” mta.info/mta/museum

To read our 2014 Winter Classes Guide, click here.

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Brooklyn Robot Foundry - Virtual Classes

<p><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">Brooklyn Robot Foundry offers super fun online robot-building classes for children 2-13 years old!</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">Each week, students are introduced to new engineering concepts and components while building that day’s robot in their own “workshop”.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">All classes maintain a very low student-to-teacher ratio, allowing for plenty of individualized instruction and socializing. The supplies are shipped in advance and classes are led by amazing instructors, taking all the pressure off parents.</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">  </span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;">The Foundry’s main focus however, is that kids have fun, get creative, and enjoy being part of this STEAM-loving community!</span><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: small; background-color: #ffffff;"> </span></p>

The Wild Center

<p>The Wild Center, nestled within the breathtaking landscape of New York's Adirondack Park, offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of nature. As visitors approach the Center, they are greeted by the Adirondack Mountains towering in the distance, setting the stage for an immersive adventure.<br /><br /></p> <p>Upon entering the 34,000-square-foot exhibit hall, guests are enveloped in a world of wonder and discovery. Interactive exhibits like Planet Adirondack and Climate Solutions invite exploration, allowing visitors to delve into the rich biodiversity of the Adirondack region. The indoor experience also includes an opportunity to soar on Birdly--a one-of-a-kind VR experience. Also, get up close with an animal ambassador during one of many live animal encounters throughout the day.<br /><br /></p> <p>In addition to its indoor exhibits and programs, the Wild Center also boasts 115-acres of extensive outdoor amenities. One of the highlights in the award-winning Wild Walk. Visitors walk up a trail of bridges to the treetops of the Adirondack forest, 40 feet off the ground. Along the way, interactive exhibits provide insights into the flora and fauna that call the Adirondacks home, from songbirds to black bears.<br /><br /></p> <p>The rest of the campus features more ways to explore. Check out Patrick Dougherty’s Stickwork sculpture, an all natural installation of woven sticks that will spark your imagination and nostalgia. Immerse yourself in Forest Music, take a naturalist-lead canoe trip, or get your roll on with Raquette River Roll, a brand-new, oversized, all-natural ball run experience opening in June 2024.</p>

Elf the Musical

<p>They'll sing loud for all to hear. You can bring the Christmas cheer.</p> <p>Start decking the halls, people – <em><strong>it's Elf The Musical</strong></em>!</p> <p>After a decade away, the beloved holiday classic is back on Broadway for a strictly limited run. Whether you’re searching for the perfect stocking stuffer or a festive outing for the whole family, this family-friendly show is packed with joy, laughter, and snow-covered magic.</p> <p>A musical comedy adaptation of the hit 2003 film, <em><strong>Elf The Musical</strong></em> follows Buddy the orphan who, after being raised by elves at the North Pole, embarks on a journey to New York City to find his birth father and help the people he meets rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Academy Award® nominee Sean Astin ("Lord of the Rings") is Santa Claus alongside Tony Award® nominee Grey Henson as Buddy, Drama Desk Award nominee Ashley Brown as Emily, and rising star Kayla Davion as Jovie. Plus, keep an eye out for social media celebrity Kalen Allen – known for his appearances on "The Ellen Show" – as the hilarious store manager.</p> <p>Called “a slickly irresistible and fizzily enjoyable confection of a show” (<em>Time Out</em>), this holly-jolly hit is one you won't want to miss. Through January 4 only!</p>