There’s an abundance of activities to keep them entertained and engaged. Here are ten more activities to enjoy in Brooklyn with kids:
1. Explore Brooklyn Heights
Begin your adventure at Clark Street, the first subway stop in Brooklyn via the 2 or 3 train, which leads you to Brooklyn Heights. This picturesque neighborhood, filled with charming brownstones, is a delightful area to explore. Montague Street serves as the main thoroughfare, offering numerous dining options for hungry youngsters (Henry Street is also great for a leisurely stroll). At the end of Montague, you’ll find the Promenade, a scenic walkway with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, reminiscent of a scene from a classic film.
2. Take a Ride on the NY Water Taxi
Prefer not to row a boat? Head to Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park to catch the NY Water Taxi and enjoy the sights of the city from a unique vantage point. Opt for the Hop On/Hop Off tour, which will take you past Governor’s Island (home to a historic fort worth exploring), the Statue of Liberty, and of course, Manhattan. Alternatively, you can purchase a combined Bike and Boat ticket, allowing you to cycle across the Brooklyn Bridge if your kids are up for it.
3. Visit DUMBO
DUMBO, which stands for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass, is located right next to Brooklyn Bridge Park. This vibrant neighborhood is perfect for food and leisurely walks, with the imposing bridge overhead creating a striking backdrop. Just remind the kids that there won’t be any elephant rides, but they can indulge in something sweet from Dewey’s Candy Store.
4. Cheer on the Brooklyn Nets
Thanks to the contributions of local celebrity Jay-Z, Brooklyn now boasts the Brooklyn Nets. Take the subway to the bustling intersection of Atlantic and Flatbush Avenues and cheer on the home team at the Barclays Center, the borough’s first major sports venue since the beloved Ebbets Field.
5. Discover the Brooklyn Museum
For those fascinated by mummies, the Brooklyn Museum in Prospect Park is a must-visit. Home to a world-renowned collection of Egyptian art and artifacts, including the Mummy Chamber, this elegant museum is the second largest in New York and also features remarkable collections of American and contemporary art.
6. Enjoy Prospect Park
Prospect Park is a vast oasis, akin to Central Park, both designed by Frederick Law Olmstead. Within its boundaries, you can easily forget the hustle and bustle of the city. The park features the last natural forest in Brooklyn, along with a zoo, fantastic playgrounds (like the Garfield Tot Lot for younger children and the Imagination Playground), a farmer’s market, nature trails, a carousel, and even horseback riding! (Note: Prospect Park continues to recover from Hurricane Sandy; check here for updates on closures and recovery efforts.)
7. Explore Park Slope
When you’re ready to return to a more urban vibe, venture across Prospect Park West to Park Slope, where Fifth and Seventh Avenues are lined with kid-friendly shops and eateries. Check out Sweet Melissa Patisserie, which offers a dress-up chest for children during tea time, or equip your little hero at the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Company.
8. Experience the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM)
The Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) has a long-standing reputation for cutting-edge theatre, dance, and music, including exceptional performances for children. They even host a children’s film festival. As a bonus, BAM provides a bus service back to Manhattan after performances. Don’t forget to stop by Junior’s Cheesecake nearby to relish some classic Brooklyn desserts!
9. Savor Brooklyn Pizza
In my experience, it’s nearly impossible to find bad pizza in Brooklyn, and you haven’t truly experienced the borough until you’ve had a slice. There are numerous pizzerias to test this theory; feel free to try any local spot you come across (my go-to in Park Slope was always Pizza Plus), or while visiting Brooklyn Bridge Park, grab a slice at Grimaldi’s in DUMBO. And remember, fold your slice lengthwise, New York style!
10. Indulge in Brooklyn Bagels
Similarly, the bagels in Brooklyn are unparalleled. In Park Slope, Bagel Hole is a local favorite, or in Brooklyn Heights, grab a bagel (with a schmear, of course) from Montague Street Bagels to enjoy at the promenade for a delightful, kid-friendly breakfast. Yum!
If you’re eager for even more activities in Brooklyn, check out our post on additional family-friendly spots!
In conclusion, Brooklyn offers a rich tapestry of experiences for families, from parks and museums to theaters and eateries, ensuring you can create lasting memories with your children.