With it being February, most of us want to stay inside until the warm weather is finally consistent. However, this can prove to move time much more slowly, creating a long and dull winter. That kind of environment is no good for you, not to mention your kids and the rest of the family. Especially in New York, there are always opportunities to help beat the winter blues.
1. Ice-Skating
Ice-skating can be the perfect way to spend an afternoon. For indoor skating, check the City Ice Pavilion in Long Island City, and just because Christmas was two months ago doesn’t mean that outdoor ice-skating is over! The Rick at Rockefeller Center stays open through April 28, and the Wollman Rink through April 7. It’s never too early (or late!) to teach your kids (or yourself!) how to skate.
2. Going to the Library
The colder months make for the perfect opportunity to get children to read (instead of playing on a tablet!). The New York Public Library not only allows you to indulge in books for yourself and for the kids, it also offers activities to keep everyone busy and happy. Check out their list of events for children and adults here.
3. Museums
While this could potentially be boring for some children, there are definitely exhibits around the city that your child will love. If they love dinosaurs or space, check the Museum of Natural History’s events. If they have a liking toward art, The Met offers programs for kids and families. And the New York Transit Museum can teach children parts of the city’s rich history through trains and buses. Of course, when all else fails, the Children’s Museum is always sure to delight.
4. Aquarium
The New York Aquarium is a great alternative to kids completely averse to going to “boring” museums. It also proves that Coney Island doesn’t have to be just a summer location! The aquarium offers all kinds of programs for kids, adults, and the whole family.
5. Liberty Science Center
While not in New York City, it is only a quick ride away in Jersey City. The Science Center allows for you and your children to engage with science in fun and interactive ways. With a current exhibition for Disney’s “The Lion Guard” and a planetarium show hosted by characters from “Sesame Street,” kids may not even realize that this fun place is technically a museum!
These activities and programs will help keep you covered until mid-April when it’s finally warm enough to take just a simple walk out to the park!
Margaret Rothfus is a current freelancer living in New York. An English major at Fordham University, she is Copy Chief for the school’s newspaper, The Fordham Ram, and serves as a class senator in the school’s United Student Government. Margaret, originally from Pittsburgh, loves to explore New York City for activities, fun, and food.
