Kid Activities for Winter Break in New York

Stephanie Armstrong
New York City is just as lively during the winter as any other season of the year. The Big Apple has plenty of indoor and outdoor activities for kids on winter break. This makes it one of the best places for kids to stay entertained and active instead of cooped up inside. Just make sure to have your kids bundle up before heading out in that harsh weather.

Sledding

New York City is full of parks that are perfect for sledding. Central Park's Pilgrim Hill is pretty steep for big kids, but Cedar Hill is less busy and ideal for beginners or smaller children. Check out Riverside Park and watch the Hudson while the kids play. According to Time Out New York, the parks even hand out sleds and free hot chocolate. Check with the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation for more information.

Ice Skating

From late October to early January, Rockefeller Center opens its beautiful ice-skating rink to the public. Take kids skating during the week for winter break to avoid large crowds. There might be a long wait on weekends, so head over to one of Central Park's two larger rinks. Central Park also offers lessons during winter break for beginners. Another popular skating rink is at the Pond at Bryant Park. The Pond has free admission and group lessons are available.

Zoo Trips during Winter Break

Animal lovers will enjoy this activity. Visit the Bronx Zoo to see polar bears, snow leopards and holiday winter lights. There are so many attractions and exhibits to explore. The Bronx Zoo also offers youth programs for kids ages 8 to 12 who want to see what it's like to be a zoologist for a day. The Central Park Zoo is open every day of the year and has a variety of workshops for kids.

Indoor Sports

Consider indoor sports like karate, judo or gymnastics during winter break. New York City also has many indoor basketball courts at youth centers that children can attend. This activity will give them the chance to exercise and meet new friends.

Children's Museum of Manhattan

The Children's Museum has activities that allow kids to express themselves and hone their art skills. Kids ages 6 months to 3 years old can attend an early childhood class and older age groups can enroll in classes that don't require a parent to be present. Visit the Children's Museum of Manhattan online or call 212-721-1223 for more information.

Sources

"101 Things to do in New York City in the Winter," Time Out New York
"Where to Sled in New York City," Time Out New York Kids
"Classes for Kids," Children's Museum of Manhattan

Published by Stephanie Armstrong

Stephanie is a bicoastal freelancer from Los Angeles and New York. She has written for PopEater, Citysearch, eHow, Livestrong, TheFrisky and many more. Stephanie is also a filmmaker, editor and photographer....  View profile

1 Comments

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  • Renee Morway9/19/2010

    I love the Bronx Zoo. Guess I'm a big kid.

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