Great Cultural Exploration Activities for Kids in New York City

With summer fun just around the corner, the change in season can be a catalyst for even more activities. After spring break in New York City, the impending countdown to summer vacation keeps everyone in high gear. The ever-growing to-do list, after school activities, and picnics at Central Park keep every family busy, but there's so much more to do and explore in New York City. If you're looking for some new places to explore, here are some great cultural activities for kids in New York City:

The Children's Museum of Manhattan offers interactive exhibits and the all-important educational attractions to expand the horizons of your young intellectual. The museum covers a broad range of subjects, including cultural arts, media, technology, science, and history. It's located at 212 West 83^rd Street, and you can call (212) 721-1234 for ticket and exhibit information. Adults and children can get in for just $6 each, and your little tike under 1 year of age gets in free. The New Jersey Children's Museum is another option if you're not interested in heading to the busiest district. Here you'll find over thirty different exhibits and special sections for babies and toddlers. The museum is located at 599 Industrial Avenue, and you can call (210) 262-5151 for exhibit information and tickets. Tickets cost $8 plus tax for adults and children.

It's more than a zoo at the Bronx Zoo and Wildlife Conservation Park. This historical park is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the country with over 6,000 animals. You'll find everything from lions, gorillas, bears, buffalo, elephants, and rhinoceroses. It can be a two-day affair, so plan ahead if you can and spend the weekend in the area to make the most of the trip. Be sure to check out the special exhibits at the Butterfly Zone, Bengali Monorail, and Congo Gorilla Forest. The zoo is located at Fordham Road and Bronx River Parkway. Call (718) 367-1010 for more information.

Dance classes are a great way to add some exercise to the weekly schedule. Kids Co-Motion, in conjunction with Rebecca Kelly Ballet, offers studio classes for infants through adolescents. Jazz, hip-hop, ballet, and formal dance techniques are a great opportunity to explore the world of dance and exercise. The main studio is located at 579 Broadway, 4B; call (2121) 431-8489 for more information. The Broadway Dance Center also offers workshops and classes to bring out the best in your little starlet. It's located at 221 W. 57^th Street, and you'll need to call (212) 582-9304 for class schedules and availability.

There's always something happening at Central Park, and you'll want to spend a weekend or two in the Children's Zoo, The Carousel, and the Chess and Checkers House. The Carousel is a popular attraction for kids (and kids at heart), and its been running since 1971. For just 90 cents a ride, this is a New York City classic. The Children's Zoo is located at 64^th Street and Fifth Avenue; don't miss out on the endangered wildlife exhibits and petting zoo right across the street.

Lastly, don't forget a trip to Chelsea for downtown Manhattan for the Greenmarket. These open-air farmers' markets are a great way to explore and sample local fare, take in the fresh plants and flowers of the area, and enjoy a day in the sun!

From a trip to the zoo to an evening at dance class, you'll find plenty of cultural activities for kids in New York City. Even when summer vacation seems far away, adding an activity or two on the weekends is easy enough with museums, neighborhood events, and the festivities at Central Park.