Here's 10 kid and family-friendly things to do in NYC during the winter time

Ok, we didn't have much of a winter this year in NYC but that doesn't mean we were desperate for cool things to do on the weekends in the city with the brood. Sure, we've started to keep it close to our neighborhood, but I've been known to have a list of select favorites to draw us out of our comfort zone (ie: the couch) and spend a day, afternoon or evening out and about. 

Ice Skating In Bryant Park 

Ok, I do this with and without the kids but it's an all-time winter favorite activity. Because it's an NYC Park it's technically free - if you have a lock and pair of skates (which we do - if you don't I think it's a $20 skate rental). I highly suggest you opt for mornings for the least amount of traffic. 

The views are incredible and you can treat yourself to some delicious culinary offerings when you've worked up an appetite on the ice. The kids favor Waffles and Dinges. If you happen to be here for the holiday shops, I highly suggest you try nearly everything. If you're after the holiday season, you can check out the winter igloos, bumper cars on ice and The Lodge by Urban Space for some over the top $15 hot chocolate (open until March 1). 

Visit One Of The Four Zoos 

While popular opinion likely errs on the side of visiting the zoo any time but winter, I'm all for visiting when the weather is cooler. 1) the animals are way more active (For instance: the snow leopard at the Central Park Zoo), AND 2) There's less people!

 - Favorite Exhibits At Each Zoo -

 The Queens Zoo has the cutest Andean Bear Cubs.

The Bronx Zoo has amazing activities & events year round so I would check the website to see if they have any upcoming events. I also LOVE the Bug Carousel and Congo Gorilla Forest.

The Prospect Park Zoo's Discovery Trail is a favorite.

The Central Park Zoo is an NYC staple. It's easily accessible and has a lot to offer. I love the Snow Leopards, Penguins and Rainforest. Say hey to the resident Grizzly Bears, Betty and Veronica. Afterwards, you absolutely have to stop by the Children's Zoo and then hop over to the Billy Johnson Playground on 67th and take a few runs down the famous Rock Slide. 

Take The Train Out To Coney Island and Visit The Aquarium

Bundle up and make a day of it. Take the train to the end of the line, grab a hot dog at Nathan's and run around on the empty boardwalk before making your way over to the New York Aquarium. I promise their newly opened Shark Exhibit is worth the trek. I'm personally excited about the invertebrate exhibit coming soon!

Make It A Museum Day

Ok, so you're not into the outdoors during the winter time. I get it. One of the many museums of New York City is the way to go when the weather is less than favorable. Personal favorites include The Museum of Natural History and The Metropolitan Museum of Art (both are suggested donations, so you can pay whatever you please for admission). 

Queens also has some pretty awesome options. The Museum Of Moving Image in Astoria (is free Friday's from 4pm - 8pm) and MOMA PS1 in Long Island City. 

Brookfield Place 

Hudson Eat's "Saturday Morning Show" is a great option for parents with younger kids. You can catch magicians, musicians and storytellers every week from 10am-Noon. Catch a show, grab some food or hit the ice at the rink ($20 for a 90 minute session, includes skates). I personally love a sandwich and some pastries from Le District followed by people-watching in the atrium. Then we walk it off on the quick walk over to the park a block or so away. 

Hudson Yards + The Highline 

I'll never say no to taking the 7 train to the end of the line and making my way from the 30's down to the teens via The Highline. We usually grab some coffee and treats before heading down the line. Hudson Yards is basically the new place to be - whether it's shopping, eating, or checking out The Vessel.

Begin your trek at Hudson Yard, grab something to go and make your way all the way down to the Meatpacking District. 

Ride The Ferry

I love the ferry all year round. But there's something about riding the ferry from Astoria to Wall Street in the cool, crisp air that makes me feel alive, or at least more awake.

Wander through the Welling Court Mural Project before hopping aboard for a 20 minute ride to the LES. Or vice versa - coming from Manhattan? Come on over and check out the murals, grab some brunch and head back over to the city...

DUMBO

Take a ride around Jane's Carousel, walk the Brooklyn Bridge or waterline and grab some eats (I'm a Luke's Lobster + Shake Shack Girl).

Search For A Good Book At The Library

I don't know what it is about winter that makes me want to nestle up with a huge cup of hot chocolate and a good book. We LOVE the citywide Libraries. From The Queens Library to the iconic New York Public Library - there's something to be found for everyone. 

And last but certainly not least...
Central Park

Central Park is iconic 365 days a year, but there's something about a fresh blanket of snow over the park that calls for me to suit up in my layers, grab a toboggan and hit the hills. There's plenty of space to spread out, build a snowman or start a snowball fight. Or even go ice skating. It's not my all time favorite rink but it does have unbeatable views and lots of space. 

What's your favorite NYC Winter Activity?