Get us in your inbox

Allie Early

Allie Early

Allie Early is Time Out's former New York Kids Editor.

Articles (352)

The best playgrounds in NYC for outdoor playtime

The best playgrounds in NYC for outdoor playtime

From classic playgrounds to water playgrounds, NYC kids throughout the five boroughs have it made when it comes to outdoor playtime. The best playgrounds in NYC are places where the kids can gather, burn energy, have fun, make some memories and maybe get a little creative. The city is home to standard slides-and-swings playgrounds as well as innovative, design-forward playgrounds that stimulate the imagination. And who can forget the water playgrounds—featuring splash pads and sprinklers—that serve as summertime spots for staying cool. You’re never far from a playground in NYC, but some are worth a trip outside of the neighborhood. As fun as any kid-friendly attraction, these NYC playgrounds are sure to keep the kids entertained and help them burn off energy.

Las 54 mejores películas para ver en familia

Las 54 mejores películas para ver en familia

Reunid a la familia y coged un buen bol de palomitas: ¡las mejores películas familiares os están esperando! Hemos cogido un poco de todo: clásicos, de dibujos animados, películas de princesas Disney, niños de los 90... ¡y todo lo que os podáis imaginar!. ¿Lo que queréis es reíros? Poneos 'Los Goonies'. ¿Lo que os apetece es ver a Fido? Poneos 'Mi perro Skip'. Os garantizamos que tenemos películas para todos los gustos. RECOMENDADO: Juegos de mesa para toda la familia. 

Indoor water parks near NYC

Indoor water parks near NYC

A cold, rainy or crazy hot day doesn’t mean you have to scrap plans with the kids. They can still have plenty of energy-burning fun at a slew of indoor activities for kids around the city. From bowling and laser tag to indoor amusement parks, there’s no shortage of weather-proof fun. But for a year-round taste of summer, there’s nothing better than an indoor water park. Kids can splash around, zoom down water slides and have an all-around good time regardless of the weather. These indoor water parks near NYC are an easy day trip—or excellent weekend adventure—and fun for the whole family. Whether it’s the dead of winter or a scorching summer, head to one of these indoor water parks for some serious splashy fun, no sunscreen required.

Best kids’ cooking classes in NYC

Best kids’ cooking classes in NYC

Feeling hungry? NYC's best cooking classes for kids will help cure the munchies!  In these courses, children of all ages will learn new recipes, master different meals and feel comfortable handling kitchen equipment. Essentially, you're going to have a Top Chef in the making, so get ready to hand over the dinner reins to your brood. From the offering at Freshmade NYC to Taste Buds Kitchen, Gotham's cooking classes for kids are the best of the best. Buy a few aprons and let the youngsters do the rest. Bon appétit! If your kids feel like taking a night off from their culinary duties, check out fun restaurants around town, grab a cone at NYC's best ice cream shops and take advantage of these cookie delivery services. 

Where to go sledding in NYC

Where to go sledding in NYC

As peak winter kicks in and the snow piles up, thoughts turn to sledding, snowball fights, snow angels and ice skating. Adventurous crews may head for the hills to ski or snow tube, but there’s no need to venture far for a wintry day out: sledding in NYC can be just as fun. The best sledding hills are right in our own backyard, in the city’s many beautiful parks. There’s nothing better than romping around in freshly fallen snow, running up a hill and sledding right back down. No need to plan a winter weekend getaway, you can make a spur-of-the-moment decision to pack up the family and head out as soon as the flakes start to fall. From Central Park to Prospect Park, here are the best spots for getting your sled on in NYC.

Las 51 mejores películas para ver en familia

Las 51 mejores películas para ver en familia

Seguro que más de una vez habéis hecho u os han hecho esta pregunta: ¿Qué película me recomiendas para ver en familia? Pues aquí tenéis medio centenar de recomendaciones de cine del bueno, para todos los públicos, claro. Reunid a los vuestros y coged un buen bol de palomitas: ¡las mejores películas familiares os están esperando! Hemos reunido un poco de todo: clásicos, de dibujos animados, películas de princesas Disney, niños de los 90... ¡y todo lo que os podáis imaginar! ¿Lo que queréis es reíros? Poneos 'Los Goonies'. ¿Lo que os apetece es una de animales? Poneos 'Mi perro Skip'. Os garantizamos que tenemos películas para todos los gustos y aunque no tengáis pequeñajos y pequeñajas cerca, recordad que la mayoría de estas películas también merecen un lugar en la historia del séptimo arte. NO TE LO PIERDAS: Las mejores comedias y otras películas de buen rollo para ver en Netflix

Les 51 millors pel·lícules per veure en família

Les 51 millors pel·lícules per veure en família

Segur que més d'una vegada heu fet o us han fet aquesta pregunta: Quina pel·lícula em recomanes per veure en família? Doncs aquí teniu mig centenar de recomanacions de cinema del bo, per a tots els públics, és clar. Reuniu els vostres i agafeu un bon bol de crispetes: les millors pel·lícules familiars us estan esperant! Hi hem posat una mica de tot: clàssics, de dibuixos animats, pel·lícules de princeses Disney, nens dels 90... i tot el que us pugueu imaginar! El que voleu és riure? Poseu-vos 'Els Goonies'. El que us ve de gust és una d'animals? Poseu-vos 'Mi perro Skip'. Us garantim que tenim pel·lícules per a tots els gustos i encara que no tingueu xicotets i xicotetes a prop, recordeu que la majoria d'aquestes pel·lícules també mereixen un lloc en la història del setè art. NO T'HO PERDIS: Les millors comèdies i altres pel·lícules amb bon rotllo per veure a Netflix  

Fun things to do with teens in NYC

Fun things to do with teens in NYC

While there are plenty of fun activities for kids in the city, it might be a little harder to find things to do with teens in NYC. The too-cool-for-school age group can be hard to please, but there are still some fun spots around town that even a cranky 13 year old will love. Think fun, active outings that will keep them occupied or teen-oriented programs that take a different approach to exploring some of New York’s gems. From museums to laser tag, here are the best things to do with teens in NYC.

The best kid-friendly brunch spots in NYC that families will love

The best kid-friendly brunch spots in NYC that families will love

For most of us, brunch is a celebratory late morning meal punctuated with mimosas and bloody marys, enhanced by the company of friends. But brunch isn’t just for adults — kids can enjoy this leisurely weekend tradition too. Fortunately there are plenty of options for a kid-friendly brunch in NYC where the vibe is relaxed and the little ones will be entertained. These brunch spots range from casual joints with classic diner fare to upscale brunch destinations that welcome families. The kids can dig into pancakes and waffles and you can sip your breakfast cocktail with an indulgent eggs benny. For more ways to enjoy a meal with the little ones, check out these family-friendly restaurants in NYC.

Where to go bowling with kids in NYC

Where to go bowling with kids in NYC

Kids love a little competition, and — like laser tag, go karts and arcade games — bowling offers a friendly, stimulating option to keep them entertained and focused. From old-school alleys to bowl-centric entertainment centers, bowling with kids in NYC has never been easier or more fun. The classic spots are still worth a visit, their well-worn and well-loved environs providing a welcoming atmosphere for an afternoon activity. But newer, multipurpose lanes include plenty of additional activities once the kids have finished a game. Even better, some of these lanes feature lounges where the kids can eat and you can relax with an adult beverage. Whether you’re looking for an exciting family activity or organizing a birthday party, taking the kids bowling is a great choice for all ages. And if they take a real liking to the sport? Some lanes even offer bowling leagues for kids.

Best family ski resorts near New York

Best family ski resorts near New York

Ski season is here, and it’s time to plan an epic winter getaway that the whole family will love. Skiing is fun for all ages, and these family ski resorts near New York offer plenty of adventure for all skill levels. Whether your family includes a beginner who’s hitting the slopes for the first time out or a black-diamond speed demon, these resorts fit the bill. Not only do they have excellent skiing, these spots offer ski lessons, snow tubing, entertainment like story time and crafts, dining options and plenty of aprés-ski relaxation options for the adults, especially if you choose to stay on-site for a weekend of fun. These family-friendly ski resorts are all within a manageable drive from the city, so your next winter adventure can be closer than you think.

Best winter weekend getaways from NYC for families

Best winter weekend getaways from NYC for families

Winter can be magical in NYC, with plenty of options for ice skating, sledding and sipping hot chocolate. These seasonal activities are just a few of the amazing things to do with kids in the winter. When the crew needs a change of scenery, however, think about planning a little break. These winter getaways from NYC for families will scratch the itch for something new while embracing the best of the season. If your family is into skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing, head to a nearby family-friendly ski resort. Or maybe the kids would like to take in the wintry landscape with a train ride. Nature lovers might consider a cozy, family-friendly cabin for a little R&R and exploration. If you need a break from the cold, no problem — check out one of the fun indoor amusement parks or indoor water parks that are within just a few hours from the city. So pack up the car, bundle up and head out for one of these fun winter weekend getaways from NYC that the whole family will love.

Listings and reviews (4)

Sanctuary Hotel New York

Sanctuary Hotel New York

4 out of 5 stars

At first glance, you might confuse Sanctuary Hotel for a nice, private residence (it isn’t marked). But by the time you see the sign for the Tender Steak & Sushi restaurant outside, you’ll realize you’re in the right spot. Enter through a massive wooden door flanked by white pillars and find the concierge on your right. The lobby has a warm-yet-modern ambiance with cozy fireplaces, soft (non-tacky!) music and gray, gold and red accents. Sanctuary’s S.T.A.R. program (Service Tailored to Any Request) is an additional offering the hotel provides to make sure everyone feels at home. They’re your go-to for personal shoppers and local event and activity recommendations. They’ll even help you facilitate over-the-top celebrations or proposals—including delivery and setup of hundreds of roses and candles! Aww.   The rooms feel large and luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling leather headboards, travel-size bath products and small welcome amenities like a shower cap and blow-dryer that actually packs some power. There’s complimentary Wi-Fi and the rain-style shower has killer. But Sanctuary also keeps a light sense of humor, as well: See the cheeky artwork in your bathroom.   After you’ve checked in, stop by Tender Steak & Sushi, the hotel’s restaurant. It offers a pre fixe menu ($45) for the pre-theater crowd. If you’re in for regular dinner, do not miss the Croquette roll ($22) with tuna and spicy aioli, or The Blessing roll ($19) with lobster, seared salmon and truffle honey miso. After y

Arlo Soho

Arlo Soho

3 out of 5 stars

If you’re hunting for a unique place to hang your hat near Soho and Little Italy, Arlo’s one of your best bets. Opened in September of 2016, Arlo brings a soon-to-be futuristic lobby (the hotel is working on digital check-in kiosks at the moment), plus a small bodega, a lounge area, a study area, conference spaces, a tasty food hall-style restaurant (Harold’s Meat + Three) and a rooftop indoor-outdoor bar.  Guests should be aware that its reputation as a micro hotel isn’t exactly exaggerating—these rooms feel pretty tight even for one person. But what it lacks in room space, it makes up for in location and amenities. While Arlo is still trying it nail down its vibe/clientele, the brand new lounge spaces are relaxed and welcoming, and they have attentive servers and bartenders. The rooftop bar is also especially beautiful and offers stunning views, indoor seating and outdoor bench-style seating, plus Arlo plans to host yoga and other fitness classes there in warmer months. Inside the compact hotel rooms, you’ll find beds nestled inside wall-to-wall wood paneled nooks, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi (throughout the hotel), Somfy smart system shades and a space-saving desk—great for folks who plan to spend much of their day out and about and just need a comfy spot to return to in the evening. The bed, shower and bathroom are in one room with a glass separation, and guests are offered pump-style shampoo, conditioner and body wash plus hand soap. You won’t find your usual hotel amen

Arlo Soho

Arlo Soho

3 out of 5 stars

If you’re hunting for a unique place to hang your hat near Soho and Little Italy, Arlo’s one of your best bets (though be aware that its reputation as a micro hotel isn’t exactly exaggerating—these rooms feel pretty tight even for one person). Opened in September of 2016, Arlo brings a soon-to-be futuristic lobby (the hotel is working on digital check-in kiosks at the moment), plus a small bodega, a lounge area, a study area, conference spaces, a tasty food hall-style restaurant (Harold’s Meat + Three) and a rooftop indoor-outdoor bar. While Arlo is still trying it nail down its vibe/clientele, the brand new lounge spaces are relaxed and welcoming, and they have attentive servers and bartenders. The rooftop bar is also especially beautiful and offers stunning views, indoor seating and outdoor bench-style seating, plus Arlo plans to host yoga and other fitness classes there in warmer months. Inside the compact hotel rooms, you’ll find beds nestled inside wall-to-wall wood paneled nooks, a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi (throughout the hotel), Somfy smart system shades and a space-saving desk—great for folks who plan to spend much of their day out and about and just need a comfy spot to return to in the evening. The bed, shower and bathroom are in one room with a glass separation, and guests are offered pump-style shampoo, conditioner and body wash plus hand soap. You won’t find your usual hotel amenities like an extra toothbrush or toothpaste readily available, and guests should b

The Redbury New York

The Redbury New York

4 out of 5 stars

The vibrant Redbury New York packs a punch with a stately, high-ceilinged reception area draped in velvet curtains, a bold design aesthetic inspired by Tin Pan Alley—a nickname given to a nearby stretch known as the home of song publishing in NYC—265 newly-renovated rooms, and the continued excellence of its Roman-inspired pizzeria, Marta. In fact, when you enter the hotel, you’ll have a hard time walking past Marta without popping in for a glass from its extensive wine menu, a Spritz (Prosecco, Contratto Aperitif, Carpano Bianco and club soda, $14) or decadent treats like the ricotta e pere (oven-roasted balsamic pears with ricotta and hunks of sourdough bread, $17). The restaurant and bar offer a lively ambiance for folks seeking a craft cocktail or a mouthwatering three-course meal. Redbury’s quirky décor and welcoming amenities (plush bedding, Wi-Fi access, cute faux phonograph bedside speakers, armoire and drawers, mini fridge, a 24-hour fitness center, excellent water pressure, Ciel bath products…and the softest hotel bathrobe ever) are only made cooler by the preservation of some of the building’s antique accents (such as original doors from its days as Women’s Hotel/Martha Washington Hotel).  Redbury is an excellent spot for those new to the city or anyone looking for a conveniently-located staycation. You’ll be a short trip from area favorites like The PIT and the Gramercy Theatre, plus the hotel is only a seven-minute walk to the Empire State Building (we checked).

News (230)

Go bowling at an undersea aquarium with sea turtles and stingrays!

Go bowling at an undersea aquarium with sea turtles and stingrays!

Looking for a fun day trip out of the city with kids? Look no further than this under-the-sea bowling adventure. That's right, a great non-traditional kids' bowling opportunity is right under your nose! If your aspiring mermaids and mermen (or marine biologists) want to take a trip beneath the surface for a wild ride, here's your chance...and we can't believe we haven't been here before. Photograph: Courtesy Bass Pro Shops The kitschy undersea decor at Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill, a restaurant, bar and 12-lane bowling alley located in Bridgeport, CT, delivers loads of charm with themed lighting, backdrops, custom bowling balls that look like an octopus or mermaid and even wooden lanes with faux sea turtles, sharks, stingrays and other salt water critters—the perfect spot to visit for a quick weekend trip! Bowl Mon–Fri 11am–5pm ($25/hour per lane), Sun–Thu after 5pm ($30/hr per lane) and Fri 5pm–Sunday until 5pm ($35/hr per lane). No more than eight people to a lane. Shoe rentals $3.25. Billiards is also available at this location. Head to the grill for tasty American fare, or stop by the island-theme bar if the adults are in need of a cocktail or two. There, you'll find real tropical fish swimming in a 750-gallon saltwater aquarium. See more photos below, and learn more about Uncle Buck's various locations here. Photograph: Courtesy Bass Pro Shops   Photograph: Courtesy Bass Pro Shops Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl and Grill is located at 1 Bass Pro Dr, Bridgeport, CT (203

NYC Parks opens free after-school program signups this month

NYC Parks opens free after-school program signups this month

It's that time of year again!  NYC Parks' (much coveted) *free* after-school program signups have begun! Since most ongoing after-school programs cost anywhere between hundreds and thousands of dollars, we thought you might want a quick reminder.  Every year, NYC Parks offers after-school classes  (Mon–Fri 3–6pm) for kids ages 6–13, which includes supervised computer use, a healthy snack, academic support, sports and arts programming and even fun field trips around the city. Parents or guardians must visit the location of their choice with completed paperwork (application, program agreement, photo release and updated medical form) to sign children up for the program, and the program is first come, first served. All program forms and requirements, as well as available locations in each borough, can be found here. Registration for NYC Parks After-School Program is currently underway, and the first day of programming will begin on September 16. Don't miss out! For more family fun, see our guides to the best free activities for kids and our favorite 101 things to do with kids in NYC. Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids deals in your inbox each day.

Stop everything! The Bronx Zoo will open a Dinosaur Safari experience

Stop everything! The Bronx Zoo will open a Dinosaur Safari experience

Looking for fun things to do with dinosaur-loving kids? Do we have some news for you! The Bronx Zoo just unveiled plans for a brand new dinosaur experience that will open on April 19 and run through November 3, 2019 (included in the Total Experience ticket). Your kids should definitely prepare for a roaring good time.    Advertised as the "biggest, most realistic dinosaur ride in America," the new attraction shuttles families (with narration) through a wooded area packed with 40 ultra-realistic (read: gigantic) animatronic dinosaurs. One of the most notable features will certainly be the two towering Tyrannosaurus rex—as well as the vegetarian Omeisaurus that stretches an impressive 60 feet long. And to make things as realistic as possible, the Bronx Zoo teamed up with a paleontologist from the American Museum of Natural History—Don Lessem even served as an advisor on the original Jurassic Park!  Take a look at all of the colossal fun you can expect from the dino-mite experience:    Photograph: Courtesy Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS Photograph: Courtesy Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS     Photograph: Courtesy Julie Larsen Maher ©WCS   The experience is topped off with an ADA-accessible fossil dig area for kids to play in, plus some additional dino-themed activities around the zoo.  Until then, be sure to visit the brand new T.rex exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History. If your kids see paleontology in their future, be sure to also snag tickets to Jurassic World Live,

Time Out Market New York will open near Jane's Carousel in 2019

Time Out Market New York will open near Jane's Carousel in 2019

Prepare your taste buds: DUMBO is getting a new, out-of-this-world food hall with spectacular views, and it's created by Time Out Group! How cool is that? Time Out Market New York will open on May 31 at 8am at 55 Water St (within Empire Stores), a charming pre Civil War-era building. The new space boasts 21,000 square feet across two floors and includes three bars plus a scenic fifth floor outdoor roof deck. Say hello to views of the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and Lower Manhattan skyline—and our future-favorite spot to grab a cocktail and a bite with friends at sunset. Photograph: Time Out New York The first of Time Out Market New York's chefs and restaurateurs to join in on the adventure include local favorites such as Juliana's, Reserve Cut, Bessou, Clinton St. Baking Company & Restaurant, Miss Ada, Mermaid Oyster Bar, Alta Calidad, Jacob's Pickles, FELICE, DŌ, Cookie Dough Confections and Avocaderia. There are other Time Out Markets open/opening around the world too: The hugely popular Time Out Market Lisbon opened in 2014, Time Out Market Miami will open in South Beach in 2019, and the Boston and Chicago markets will also open in 2019. Photograph: Time Out New York For families, the location couldn't be better: Jane's Carousel is conveniently located right outside the building, and it's just a five-minute walk to Pier 1 Playground or Main St. Playground and an 11-minute walk to the Pier 2 Roller Rink! Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids

Psst! You can get free access to this zip line and adventure course

Psst! You can get free access to this zip line and adventure course

Let your kids rocket through the sky on a zip line or brave an elevated adventure course (all for free) on Sundays with the help of this sweet NYC program. This year, the Adventure Course Sunday series runs from May 5–Oct 27, and each event is free and available to kids ages 8 and up.  The Adventure Course offerings include a Nitro Swing (teams work together to problem-solve and get all teammates from one "island" to another), a climbing wall, the Human Swing Shot (where you'll be hoisted above the ground and let go on a big swing) and a 40-foot-high zip line that runs 100 yards. Between May 5 and June 30, 2019, this Sunday program is first-come, first-served and does not require registration, so arrive at least a half hour before the start time (9:30am or 1pm) to secure a spot. For Sunday programming from July 7 to Aug 25, 2019, pre-registration for this program is required and tickets are given on a lottery system. Online registration will occur the Monday before each program date, beginning on July 1. You'll be allotted a maximum of four participants per registered party if you are selected. Please have your kids wear closed-toed shoes for their adventure. Register at this page (look for each July 7–Aug 25 event as it pops up) and find even more information about the adventure course here.  Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids deals in your inbox each day.

OMG. IKEA will open its first Manhattan store!

OMG. IKEA will open its first Manhattan store!

Buckle up for the best news we've heard all day: IKEA just announced that it is opening its first Manhattan store in spring of 2019, and we couldn't be more excited. (Side note: Did we mention how excited we also are about the new Target and FAO Schwarz?) The store concept, which was co-created with the help of New Yorkers, comes at a time when IKEA is focusing on becoming even more accessible. Schleps to Brooklyn via the cork-like yellow ferry will no longer be required for Manhattanites (though we can't resist the Småland play area and will still be going anyway). The new store will be one of 30 "touchpoints" that the company hopes will up its levels of convenience. “We recognize that we are in a rapidly changing retail environment, and to be fit for long-term growth, IKEA is transforming in a way that lets us meet our customers where they are,” said Lars Petersson, Country Manager, IKEA Retail U.S. “New York City is the natural choice to open the first city center store – the most vibrant, dynamic city in the US, and the epicenter of retail, business, and culture," reads the statement. The new IKEA location, dubbed The IKEA Planning Studio, will open on April 15, 2019 at 999 Third Avenue, NY, NY with a focus on smart solutions for urban living—which we take to mean sofas, tables and other accessories that can actually make it up your crazy walk-up. Plus, the new IKEA offers home delivery. P.S. Brooklynites: IKEA notes that the Brooklyn IKEA will be getting a remodel! Wooho

Here's why NYC kids are walking out of school tomorrow

Here's why NYC kids are walking out of school tomorrow

Kids around the world plan to skip school tomorrow (at least temporarily), and it's not your usual teen rebellion—it's about global warming. Tomorrow, March 15, 2019, thousands of school-aged children are taking to the streets to demand action from elected officials on climate change. Thanks to the #FridaysForFuture movement, aspiring Greta Thunbergs can participate in an organized Youth Climate Strike (which, might we add, was founded by a group of children ages 12–17!) to raise awareness for global warming. The event could be one of the biggest environmental protests in history. Though the key points of each strike vary slightly across the world, here in the US, the Youth Climate Strike website outlines the following objectives for the protest: - Green New Deal - Halt to fossil fuel infrastructure projects - Environmental decisions led with scientific research  - A National Emergency declaration for climate change - Widespread public education on climate change - Preserving public land and wildlife - Protecting our water supply   The current strikes listed in NYC for the Youth Climate Strike website are as follows: Columbia Climate Strike Students for a Future Climate Strike at New York City Hall NYC Climate Strike at Columbus Circle New York Youth Climate Strike (46th and First Ave; W 3rd St between Bleecker and E 4th St)   See a full list of active youth strikes in NYC and elsewhere around the world here. If you would like to learn more about students' rights during the w

Super cute Japanese dollar store Daiso will open in NYC

Super cute Japanese dollar store Daiso will open in NYC

Beloved Japanese dollar store Daiso has a cult following for a reason—it's jam-packed with inexpensive toys, Japanese treats, items for the home and other adorable, kitschy stuff you'll want to grab straight away. We have some great news: Daiso is opening a new store in NYC (40-24 College Point Boulevard in the Shops at Skyview Center), so you won't have to travel far to get your hands on these sweet products. SecretNYC reports that Daiso will debut on Friday March 8 at 10am with a grand opening celebration, and the first 100 customers will reportedly get a complimentary goodie bag with their purchases. Be sure to ask for a Great Prize Giveaway ticket (as available) at the front of the store before 4:30pm on March 8: Daiso is giving away a handful of big-ticket items and gift cards. Photograph: Courtesy Yelp/Michael S Craving even more Japanese treats? You'll definitely want to head to our favorite new Japanese food hall in NYC, Japan Village, where you can see noodles being made and fill your bellies with delicious ramen and other tasty offerings. Oh, and don't forget to check out our guides to the best toy stores in NYC and kids' consignment shops if you're on the hunt for a great gift. Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids deals in your inbox each day.

Everything we know about the Museum of Natural History's expansion project

Everything we know about the Museum of Natural History's expansion project

New York's beloved American Museum of Natural History is on the road to a much-anticipated expansion. You've likely encountered our previous coverage of the project on Time Out here and here, but in the event that you haven't, here's a recap of what's in the works: - The Richard Gilder Center for Science, a 245,000-square-foot wing designed by Chicago-based Studio Gang Architects, will feature a state-of-the-art insectarium (A.K.A. bug hall!), a 3,000-square-foot butterfly vivarium (modern, upgraded butterfly conservatory) packed with high-tech features, and expanded learning spaces. The project was approved by NYC parks December 4, 2017 and is projected to open in 2020. - The new wing will also feature a 21,000-square-foot Collections Core that includes specimens and artifacts (seen in our lead image). - The Center will be a candidate for LEED Gold certification, and the design will incorporate fritted glass for shading/bird safety, efficient landscaping, mindful lighting designs and water conservation initiatives in addition to outdoor landscaping that's water efficient. Photograph: Courtesy Ralph Appelbaum Associates - The Museum has collaborated with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation (NYC Parks) to minimize the environmental impact on Theodore Roosevelt Park and contribute park improvements that include new tree plantings, benches and expanded play areas.  - In April 2018, Patch reported that The Community United to Protect Theodore Roosevelt Park is "s

The Dr. Seuss Museum is now open—and worth visiting ASAP!

The Dr. Seuss Museum is now open—and worth visiting ASAP!

We blogged about The Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Museum way back in November of 2016 before it opened to the public, and now we're following up to see what's there. Spoiler: It's really cool! Seuss lovers of all ages will appreciate amazing artifacts and exhibits that honor the master of tongue-twisty children's tales. If you're able to take a trip out to Springfield, MA, you'll certainly want to leave time to explore the museum's two floors. The first is dedicated to interactive exhibits and games, while the second recreates Theodor Geisel's (Seuss') studio and living room with real artifacts from his residence. Start your experience with the "Entry Hall," which offers a Mulberry Street police officer atop a bike (that kids can sit on, too!), a massive Mulberry Street mural and a custom glass trumpet lighting fixture that embodies the whimsy of Seuss stories. You might then head to exhibits like "Fairfield Street," which teaches visitors about the Springfield Geisel knew as a boy. Then, you might see "Young Ted in Springfield," where you'll encounter a play bakery, a zoo of fantastic characters, a digital fishing game and even a spot to "draw" on his childhood bedroom walls just like he did as a child. Photograph: Courtesy Springfield Museums "Readingville," the most colorful exhibit of all, brings Seuss's ABC story to life with floor-to-ceiling artwork that even talks (letters produce sounds when pressed), plus Green Eggs and Ham wordplay games. You'll also find characters

Your kids can see their aura at this trippy exhibit in Meatpacking

Your kids can see their aura at this trippy exhibit in Meatpacking

Ever wondered what your aura looks like? Now you can find out. This unique new pop-up exhibit is hidden up on the third floor of luxurious Lexus enthusiast hangout INTERSECT BY LEXUS - NYC—and while that might not be the first destination you'd associate with kid-friendly fun, "Essential Invisible" is certainly an interactive experience that'll entrance your tykes, and we're stopping in to see it. Also, did we mention its free??? In the exhibit, you'll experience the technology behind autonomous vehicles to "see the unseen" as digital auras. Essentially, guests can play with some pretty cool-looking digital projections and will get to see live artwork made from the data that's drawn from their movements. Visit it in February, Mon–Thu noon–10pm, Fri–Sun 11am–11pm. Photograph: Courtesy INTERSECT BY LEXUS – NYC Looking for even more cool experiences around NYC and sweet stuff happening in the city's best children's museums? Be sure to check out the new and improved Long Island Science Center and head to MoMA before it closes for three months this summer.  Sign up to receive great Time Out New York Kids deals in your inbox each day.

NASKART will open in CT as the largest indoor go-kart racing track in the world

NASKART will open in CT as the largest indoor go-kart racing track in the world

Children and adults with a need for speed will flip for this go-kart track, NASKART, which opened in Montville, Connecticut (2.5 hrs from NYC) on December 16, 2016. It’s touted as the largest indoor multi-level karting track in the world and offers zero-emission electric karts with top speeds of 45mph. Families will get to explore a 110,000-square-foot facility with two tracks and experiences for all ages and skill levels. There's also a café with quick eats for kids and adults, plus a full bar (of-age guests are subject to breathalyzer testing and will not be served until after their scheduled race).     P.S.—If this wasn’t exciting enough, there’s also a trampoline park in the same facility ($8–$14), complete with a foam pit, dodgeball and basketball nets. For more indoor fun, check out our favorite indoor playgrounds and kids' play spaces. Find NASKART at 1 Sachatello Industrial Dr, Montville, CT (860-444-7700, naskartracing.com). Want more? Sign up here to stay in the know.