As you hop aboard the ferry and peruse our Governors Island guide for families, make sure The Yard earns a top spot on your list of things to do.
While moms and dads might be inclined to take a breather on Hammock Grove, little adventurers are going to make a beeline to this 50,000-square-foot play area once it reopens on May 4 (Governors Island itself will reopen on May 1). We certainly can't blame tykes—after all, The Yard is one of the coolest kids' playgrounds NYC has on its roster!
Previously known as Play:Ground, the Yard takes a unique approach to downtime. Kiddies 6 and up can tinker with loose parts and atypical objects (think cardboard, rope, wood planks, tires) as they work toward creating something out of this world. Don't worry, parents: Staffers are on hand to assist when needed.
It's certainly a great way to keep kiddies active and curious, especially as the fourth season approaches. The go-to spot will now offer one of the coolest after-school programs in town: Adventure Club, a three-hour playtime on Monday through Thursday from 3–6pm from Apr 29–Jun 20. Enrollment ranges from $300–$1,100 for the semester, and spots are filling up fast! (Learn how to register on The Yard's website).
Adventure doesn't stop there: There will also be field trips, summer camps and even professional development programs for teachers. Let the games begin! For more things to do on Governors Island, have a gander at our favorite activities.
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