Unexpected Fun in NYC

By Katelin Walling May 30, 2017

37 things to do in New York City that are unique, unusual, and off the beaten path

We live near (what is arguably) the greatest city in the United States, with its dozens of museums and cultural institutions, landmarks, and historical sites. Yet, sometimes it can feel like you visit those kid-friendly locations too often already, and the thought of schlepping the kids there for the nth time is draining. Let’s face it: You and your kids are bored—itching for a new adventure. Now what?

We scoured the city and created a scavenger hunt of 37 unique, unusual, or off-the-beaten-path things to do, see, or explore with your kids. If you post photos of your adventures on Instagram, make sure you tag us @NYMetroParents, and let us know if you find anything we should add to our list!

Hang with Animals without Going to the Zoo

Steve Baldwin

From seeing wild monk parakeets on a Wild Parrot Safari in Brooklyn (pictured) to hanging with adoptable cats in one of the city’s cat cafés, we found eight places you can hang out with animals in New York City outside of the zoo.

Activities for the Adventurous

Nina LoSchiavo

Seven places in NYC you can adventure to with your kids, including playing in a junkyard, canoeing in the Gowanus Canal, and going on a graffiti art walk (pictured).

Do It for the ’Gram

Courtesy Black Tap

We’re all about social media these days, Instagram in particular, so why not hunt down these NYC Insta-worthy spots for your feed, from over-the-top milkshakes (pictured) to mosaics on building façades.

Explore Nature

Courtesy Randall’s Island Park Alliance

Picnicking; check. Riding bikes; check. Spending the day in Sheep’s Meadow; check. You’ve done those, but have you explored an urban farm (pictured), explored Central Park’s North Woods, or foraged in a city park? Check out six unexpected ways to explore nature in NYC.

Uniquely New York

Katelin Walling

Eight off-the-beaten-path things to do with your kids that are unique to the city, including eating knishes, seeing real gold bricks, and learning how pianos are made.

Main image: Snap a photo with Fearless Girl in Manhattan's Financial District before she leaves in February 2018.
Katelin Walling

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