Don’t have the time—or the budget—to plan a last minute family weekend getaway from NYC this Labor Day? You’re not alone! That doesn’t mean there isn’t plenty of fun in the sun to be had close to home. Take advantage of beaches near the the city and relish in some of the last few summer activities for kids before school starts up again.
Spend a full day at Coney Island
Wake up early, pack a bathing suit and grab your walking shoes for a full day at New York’s most famous seaside neighborhood. Start your day off with a kick much stronger than any cup of coffee or sugary cereal: a ride on a rollercoaster like the Cyclone or the Thunderbolt for older kids! (Little ones might prefer the kiddie rides like the mini-pirate ship or fire engines.) Then, grab a hotdog at Nathan’s Famous before cooling off in the gentle waves at the beach. Aspiring marine biologists will love a visit to see the sharks and rays at New York Aquarium, or you might get tickets to watch minor league team Brooklyn Cyclones—the Saturday game includes special Sponge Bob Square Pants activities for young fans!
Check out the NYC Unicycle Festival at Governors Island
Governors Island is one of our favorite places to frolic all season long, but during the Unicycle Festival the destination becomes just a bit more zany. Mono-wheel enthusiasts of all skill level descend on the island on Saturday and Sunday for special exhibits, races, demonstrations and competitions. Watch riders play unicycle versions of sports like basketball, hockey and even sumo wrestling—and try it out for yourself! If you’d rather stick to traditional cycling, there’s also bike rentals available for kids, grown-ups and family-size 4- and 6-seat surreys from Blazing Saddles. Whee!
Experience small town Americana at Richmond County Fair
Who needs a trip upstate when you can get that authentic, country fair experience without ever leaving city limits? A ferris wheel, fun house and bouncy house should keep energetic kids busy between bites of tasty fried foods. The three-day festival (Sat–Mon) includes entertainment like live bands and dance routines.
Photograph: Alex Strada
Cheer on the West Indian American Day Carnival
Calypso and reggae music, jubilant dancers and elaborate costumes with vibrant feathers, sequins and more all join this eight-hour parade and celebration of Caribbean culture. Get in on the fun during this annual tradition that brings over a million people to Brooklyn each year. The Labor Day event also includes vendors selling delicious grub and festive jewelry, clothes and other goods along Eastern Parkway.
See a whole bunch of boats at the Great North River Tugboat Race & Competition
Spend your Sunday down by the river cheering on your favorite boat at this 25th annual race and competition. From Pier 84 on the Hudson River you’ll be able to see the tug boats and watch them compete in pushing and line-throwing competitions. Afterward, see the working vessels up close. Games like an amateur line throwing competition and a Popeye-inspired spinach eating contest add to the family fun. $25, children 3–10 $12.