Things to do with kids in NYC this weekend

Hang 10 alongside Shrek and plummet down slides with the Madagascar penguins. DreamWorks Water Park, the largest attraction of its kind in North America, is open. You can expect the world’s tallest indoor drop slide with a 50-foot freefall, the world's largest lazy river at 1.5 acres, the world’s tallest and longest hydromagnetic water coaster, to name a few. If all of those numbers sound too intimidating, worry not: The park caters to swimmers of all abilities and offers something for everyone, including the Kung Fu Panda Temple of Awesomeness Play Structure, the Soakin Safari and King Julien’s Pineapple Jam Swim-up Bar.

Nothing is sweeter in the summertime than a scoop of ice cream. We love frequenting our favorite shops and leaving with a cone of soft serve or a tasty shake. But for those who are searching for both an activity and a dessert, you're in luck. Here's the scoop: The Museum of Ice Cream is hosting virtual ice cream making classes for those 7 and up Thursday–Sunday at 4:30pm PST (1:30pm New York time). For $25, up to two participants can tune in for step-by-step instructions from a scoop master, fun games and riddles and other creamy goodness.

Our guide to the best NYC parks for kids will help you make the most of your sunny afternoon! Simply put, these parks amazing. Some have the best playgrounds NYC families need to visit, others have the best water playgrounds in NYC. Go to these parks and you'll find the best bike trails for families in NYC, and even some of the best hiking trails for NYC families to explore. We guarantee that this list will steer you in the right direction!

This is a golden age of playgrounds: In recent years NYC has completely transformed what playtime is like for a city kid, introducing creative playgrounds to every corner of the Big Apple. There are so many gorgeous playgrounds to visit in NYC, and our list will help you set off on a fabulous adventure!

Update: For the first time in the park's history, Six Flags will offer its Holiday in the Park as a drive-thru experience Monday through Thursday evenings from Nov 30 through Dec 17. Other experiences, including roller coasters, fire pits and holiday treats will only be available on the weekend. All guests must reserve a ticket online. All safety measures are available on the park's website.

The fan-favorite theme park is slated to debut its sixth Holiday in the Park extravaganza from Nov 14 to Jan 3, 2021, and guests have plenty to look forward to this season. Returning traditions include Holiday Magic: A Celebration of the Season, a festive light show, Joy to the World, a path of illuminated trees, and Polar Point, an area of ice-blue trees frequented by the Snow King and Queen.

Lace up for the best ice skating NYC has on its roster. Classic options (such as Rockefeller Center) are just as thrilling as newcomers like the rink at Industry City. After gaining the necessary stamina with a cup of the best hot chocolate in NYC, it's time to hit the ice with your crew! All ages and skill levels are welcome to give the winter sport a whirl.

When the temperature dips, we can't help but search for a cup of the best hot chocolate in NYC. Whether we're off to fun Christmas events or just staying in with a few good family movies, delicious cocoa in the winter is a necessity—much like a big helping (or two) of whipped cream.

Just because you live in the Big Apple doesn't mean you can't spend time in the great outdoors. There are amazing family-friendly hikes close to NYC—in fact, the Bronx River Greenway and Inwood Hill Park are right in the middle of the city! So: Check the weather, pack a picnic and make plans to visit mother nature with the fam. These hiking trails are great for children of all ages, from toddlers out for a stroll to bigger kids looking to go for a scramble.

New York is a wonderful biking town! From protected bike paths on the Bronx waterfront to the low-key cycling in Battery Park City, we'll help you find the best bike trails for families in NYC.