One of the great perks of living in New York City is that there are always new things to do and see—even at old favorites. As the weather gets warmer and the summer approaches, there are once again a ton of cool new attractions in the Big Apple–from pirate-themed mini golf to a new park and playground on Governors Island! Here’s a sampling of what we’re most excited for this summer.
[Editor’s note: We’ll continue updating this story as we approach Memorial Day; check back for additions!]
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Climb--and Slide--on the Hills at Governors Island
This summer, Governors Island’s remodeling will be complete with the opening of the Hills. Rising 70 feet above sea level, the Hills is an engineering feat, which transforms the topography of the island. The park encompasses four hills that offer different options. Grassy Hill is an idyllic spot with gentle rises, overlooking 30 acres, perfect for picnics or sunbathing. Slide Hill will be your child’s favorite, with four slides for all ages. Discovery Hill will feature a beautiful view of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty, and incorporate a permanent art installation by Rachel Whitehead. Finally, Outlook Hill will rise highest, with a path that climbs to the peak, which offers a stunning 360 degree view of the city and the harbor. Be among the first to explore The Hills and get a look at the newest New York City Landmark. Governors Island re-opens for the summer season on May 28. (Image via Inhabitat.com) -
Free Play at Play:Ground in Governors Island
Play:ground is an organization devoted to “creating kid-led free play” in New York City, and they’re opening their latest play outpost this summer on Governors Island. The new playground will be available for play on weekends throughout the summer, starting this month (check their website, play-ground.nyc, for details). By providing object such as cardboard boxes and digging tools—and eventually hay bales, salvaged materials, rope, and more—the playground will allow kids to take control of their environment and safely experiment. (Image via play-ground.nyc) -
Putt Like a Pirate at Shipwrecked Miniature Golf
YAAARGH! Bring all ye mateys for a new mini golf experience at Shipwrecked Miniature Golf in Red Hook, Brooklyn. This isn’t your grandfather’s mini gold course –unless he was a pirate, that is! Search for a special treasure as you play 18 holes on this pirate-themed course, opened by Broadway vets. Prices are very reasonable ($14 for ages 13 and up), and snacks and drinks are available on the premises. Check their schedule because they also offer special performances throughout the year including magicians, jugglers, and more. (Image via facebook.com/shipwreckednyc) -
Rock Out at the Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk
Move over MSG and the Barclays Center, New York has a new venue for mega-events. The new Amphitheater at the Coney Island Boardwalk will host a great series of acts this summer. While most are geared towards adults (get a babysitter, it’s date night!), there will be a KIDZ BOP Kids Life of the Party tour on July 17. Your kids will love rocking out to the hottest pop songs of the summer. -
Explore the Hallett Nature Sanctuary in Central Park
Did you know there is a "secret" section of Central Park now available to explore? The Hallett Nature Sanctuary, closed to the public by NYC Parks Commissioner Robert Moses in 1934 for preservation as a bird sanctuary, is now offering open hours for public exploration, as recently reported in the New York Times. The sanctuary open from 2-5pm on Monday, Wednesdays, and Fridays through June 30, and will be open four days a week July 1-August 31 with slightly different hours. Take the kids to explore these (relatively) untouched four acres of woodlands! (Image via centralparknyc.org) -
Scale the DUMBO Boulders
Did you know New York now has its own outdoor rock-climbing facility? Check out DUMBO Boulders, the brand-new bouldering site underneath the Manhattan Bridge, which opened earlier this spring to rave reviews. Get ready to work– bouldering is an intense and fun workout. Instructors are available if this is your first time and ages 6 and up are welcome. Instead of having your kids climbing all over your furniture at home, get them climbing in DUMBO and start them on a path to fitness and fun. -
Celebrate "Star Trek" at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
In celebration of “Star Trek’s” 50th anniversary, this summer the Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space Museum will host “Star Trek: The Starfleet Academy Experience.” This interactive exhibit will immerse visitors in the Star Trek world from July 9-October 31. Experience life as a Starfleet Academy cadet while attending the Academy's Career Day in the 26th century, check out many of the TV show’s original costumes and props, use voice recognition to communicate with a Klingon, and more. In addition, the Intrepid Museum will host number of “Star Trek”-themed public programs to commemorate the 50th anniversary, including movie nights, themed Operation Slumbers (their popular sleepover program), education programs, two Trek-focused weeks of summer camp, themed Astronomy Nights, and more.
