Summer camps in NYC that kids will love

Calling all curious kids and marine-life enthusiasts! At New York Aquarium Camp, your child’s weekdays turn into wild, watery adventures—no snorkeling gear required. Campers in Pre-K (age four and up) through eighth grade dive into programs packed with hands-on science, animal encounters, beach walks, games and crafts, all while exploring ocean conservation in a way that’s as fun as it is unforgettable.

Each week, budding marine biologists focus on fascinating creatures—from sea lions and sharks to penguins, jellies and the mysterious critters that lurk beneath the boardwalk. Camp runs Monday through Friday, 9am to 3pm, with an optional extended care add-on until 5pm for even more animal-themed fun, exhibit visits and outdoor play.

It’s everything you’d expect from the New York Aquarium—plus sunscreen, sand and the kind of stories kids will talk about all summer.

Location: 602 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Contact: nyaeducation@wcs.org
Price: $540 members / $600 regular (5-day camp), $432 members / $480 regular (4-day camp); see their website for many more options
Grades: Pre-K–8

If your kid knows more animal facts than you do, it might be time to hand the reins over to the experts. The Bronx Zoo’s Summer Camp is back for 2025 and ready to turn curiosity into full-on creature obsession—in the best way possible. Designed for toddlers (ages 2–4, with a parent or caregiver) through tenth grade, the camp blends up-close animal encounters, outdoor exploration and hands-on science into one unforgettable summer experience.

The programming is as creative as it is educational, with camp names like “Zoo Vet Academy,” “Little Zoo Vets” and “Kinderzoo: Welcome to My Biome” that give a peek at what’s in store. Each session is led by professional educators and includes age-appropriate adventures across 265 acres of habitats, exhibits and zoo-exclusive learning zones. Campers might prep a fake surgery for a plush tiger, investigate ecosystems like junior conservationists or just spend time making friends while learning what makes a red panda so ridiculously adorable.

Camps run on weekdays from 9am to 3pm, with options that span from three days to two weeks depending on the program. For parents needing extra flexibility, the zoo offers extended care until 4:30pm—because we all know life doesn’t stop at pickup. And yes, it’s just as fun as regular camp, with extra time to play, visit exhibits and enjoy the outdoors.

Bronx Zoo Summer Camp isn’t just a way to keep kids busy—it’s a chance to spark a lifelong love of animals, science and the natural world. And honestly, it’s one of the few summer plans where your child might come home wanting to teach you something.

Location: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, New York 10460
Contact: 800-433-4149, bzeducation@wcs.org
Price: Varied; visit their website for all the options
Ages: 2–tenth grade

Looking for a summer camp that blends outdoor play, creativity and a nurturing community? Camp Corlears in Chelsea offers just that for children aged 3 to 10. Led by experienced Corlears School educators, the camp provides a safe and engaging environment where kids can explore, learn and make lasting friendships.

The camp runs from June 16 to July 25, 2025, with one-week sessions that families can mix and match. Daily hours are 8:30am to 3:00pm, with a half-day option ending at noon for 3-year-olds. Extended care until 5pm is available for an additional fee.

Campers are grouped by age: 3s, 4s, 5/6s, 7/8s, and 9/10s, each with tailored activities that promote development and fun. From sprinkler play and art projects to STEAM challenges and nature exploration, there's something for every child.

Location: 324 West 15th Street, New York, NY 10010
Contact: 212-741-2800
Price: $740+
Ages: 3–10

If your kid thinks math is just times tables and test anxiety, it’s time to introduce them to the cooler side of numbers. MoMath’s summer camp flips the script on the subject with mind-bending puzzles, hands-on projects and group activities that actually make math fun. Yes, really.

Campers are split into three groups—Epsilons (grades 1–3), Deltas (grades 4–6) and Gammas (grades 7–9)—so every child gets an age-appropriate challenge. Each day brings a new theme and a new way to think about math: one day it’s logic puzzles, the next it’s ancient math or game theory. There’s even time built in for creative projects and supervised independent exploration, which sounds a lot more exciting than the average worksheet.

Set in the vibrant, interactive world of the National Museum of Mathematics, this camp turns abstract concepts into things your kid can see, touch and genuinely get excited about. It's the kind of program where curiosity leads the way and math becomes more than just a school subject—it becomes a toolkit for how to think, solve and invent.

Location: 225 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10010
Contact: 212-542-0566; info@momath.org
Price: $1,300+
Grades: 1–9

At McBurney YMCA in Chelsea, summer camp is all about movement, creativity and building the kind of confidence that lasts long after August. With multiple camp tracks to choose from, there’s something for every kid—whether they’re into team huddles, cannonballs or crafting masterpieces out of pipe cleaners.

The Traditional Day Camp offers the full experience: games, arts and crafts, science activities, theme days and plenty of time to move and play. For younger kids, Kinder Camp provides a gentle introduction to camp life with age-appropriate fun in a supportive environment.

For kids who never stop moving, Sports Camp brings the energy. Campers rotate through different sports, build teamwork skills and get motivated by staff who know how to coach and connect. It’s all about cheering each other on, learning sportsmanship and discovering the joy of being active.

If your child is more of a water bug, Swim Camp is the place to be. With a focus on skill-building, water safety and confidence in the pool, campers receive instructional swim time from trained aquatics staff—plus plenty of dryland fun when they’re not in the water.

All McBurney campers get the benefit of rotating activities, daily encouragement and a structure built around the Y’s four core values: respect, caring, honesty and responsibility. It’s a summer of growing, splashing, playing and maybe even discovering a new favorite sport along the way.

Location: 125 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011
Contact: 212-912-2300; mcburneyycamp@ymcanyc.org
Price: Starts at $860 for members, $947 for community
Ages: 4–11

If your kids want a taste of everything, this camp is an amazing fit. At Yomi, campers are shuttled out to the country to partake in sports of all kinds, studio and theater arts activities, field trips and even Edible Education (where kids can learn about gardening, composting and pollinators). Ages 4.5–9.

If your kid has an endless energy supply and a curious streak a mile wide, Asphalt Green’s Summer Day Camp is ready to put it to good use. With campuses on the Upper East Side and in Battery Park City, this camp blends classic fun with top-tier facilities and a staff that actually knows how to keep kids engaged.

Campers ages 4.5 to 13 are grouped by grade level, and every day includes a mix of sports, swim, arts and off-the-wall creativity. From soccer and basketball to martial arts and baseball, young athletes are in their element. Daily swim instruction builds confidence and technique, while artists-in-the-making can dive into theater, music, writing and even circus arts.

There’s also plenty for the budding scientist or gamer—STEM activities, robotics and experiments keep brains just as busy as bodies. And when it's time to shake things up, weekly field trips take campers beyond the campus for adventures like aquarium visits, baseball games and climbing walls.

The camper-to-coach ratio stays low so every kid gets personal attention and support. It’s high-energy, all-inclusive and the kind of summer they’ll be talking about long after school starts again.

Location: 555 E 90th St, New York, New York 10128
Contact: 212-298-7900, camps@asphaltgreen.org
Price: $7,200+
Ages: 4.5–13

If your kid dreams in goals and corner kicks, Downtown United Soccer Club’s Summer Camp at Pier 40 is where they’ll want to be. With over 25 years of experience, DUSC knows how to turn young players into confident athletes—all while keeping the fun front and center.

Campers are grouped by age, with half-day options for ages 3 to 6 and full-day sessions for ages 5 to 13. Mornings kick off with skill-building drills focused on dribbling, passing, shooting and ball control. Midday brings small-sided games and tactical play, giving kids the chance to apply what they’ve learned in real-time.

But it’s not all soccer, all the time. Full-day campers cool off with trips to local water parks and enjoy activities like talent shows and soccer-themed games. The vibe is high-energy, supportive and just the right amount of competitive.

Coaches are seasoned pros who know how to motivate and mentor, creating an environment where kids feel encouraged to try, fail and try again. Whether your child is new to the game or already plotting their path to the pros, DUSC’s summer camp offers the perfect blend of structure, play and growth.

It’s the kind of summer that leaves them sweaty, smiling and asking for just one more game.

Location: 527 Hudson St., New York, NY 10014
Contact: info@dusc.net
Price: $460 for half-day; $765 for full-day
Ages: 3–13

This summer, the West Side YMCA is bringing kids “A Colorful Summer”—a season-long celebration of creativity, movement and community. Located just off Central Park, this Upper West Side favorite offers a wide range of camps for kids up to age 12, each packed with activities designed to keep minds curious and bodies moving.

For the littlest campers, Early Childhood Camp provides sensory play, songs and hands-on exploration that lays the foundation for school readiness. Kinder Camp builds on that with more structure and social play, perfect for 4- and 5-year-olds finding their stride.

Older campers in Traditional Day Camp jump into a mix of sports, crafts, science projects and themed days, with a strong focus on teamwork and personal growth. Swim Camp is available for kids 7 to 12, blending traditional camp fun with daily swim instruction taught by certified instructors.

No matter the age or camp track, kids experience the Y’s core values of respect, caring, honesty and responsibility in action. With energetic counselors, dynamic programming and space to try new things, this camp makes sure summer is as meaningful as it is fun. It’s everything a city summer should be—vibrant, active and full of possibility.

Location: 5 West 63rd Street, New York, NY 10023
Contact: 212-912-2640; wsycamp@ymcanyc.org
Price: Starts at $947 for members, $1,103 for community; prices vary depending on camp type
Ages: 3–12

If you’re looking for a summer camp that meets your kid exactly where they are—whether that’s nature-loving, city-staying or community-curious—the 14th Street Y has options that feel like they were custom-built for your family.

For little ones ages 2 to 5, New Town Day Camp takes place at the 14Y’s East Village home base. It's a city kid’s dream: safe, structured and just the right amount of wild. Think daily water play, group games, art exploration and snack time that’s taken very seriously.

For older kids in grades K through 8, New Country Day Camp offers the great outdoors without the long drive. Set on 75 lush acres in the Staten Island Greenbelt, it’s where campers build confidence and community while dabbling in everything from science and archery to performing arts and swimming.

And for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies ages 5 to 13, New Country Pride Camp creates an affirming space that celebrates individuality, friendship and joy. It’s inclusive, empowering and just as much fun as it sounds.

All three camps keep things hands-on, high-energy and rooted in values. It’s about trying new things, meeting great people and maybe even learning how to pack a backpack without losing your sunscreen.

Location: 344 East 14th Street, New York, NY 10003
Contact: 212-780-0800, info@14StreetY.org
Price: Vary widely. Check the website for details.
Ages: 2–13

If your child is more into digging than screen time, the Summer Children's Garden at Queens Botanical Garden is the perfect place to let their curiosity bloom. Set in a 39-acre urban oasis in Flushing, this camp offers a hands-on, dirt-under-the-fingernails experience that’s as educational as it is fun.

Designed for children ages 4 to 12, the program immerses campers in the natural world through activities like planting, harvesting and observing the ecosystem up close. They'll learn about composting, pollination and sustainable gardening practices—all while getting plenty of fresh air and exercise.

But it's not all about plants. The camp also incorporates art projects, science experiments and nature-based games that encourage creativity and critical thinking. It's a well-rounded program that nurtures both the mind and the body.

For the tiniest nature enthusiasts, the Garden Buds program welcomes 2- and 3-year-olds along with their caregivers. These sessions focus on sensory exploration, simple planting activities and guided nature walks, providing a gentle introduction to the wonders of the garden.

In a city where green space can be hard to come by, the Queens Botanical Garden offers a unique opportunity for kids to connect with nature in a meaningful way. It's more than just a camp—it's an experience that cultivates a lifelong appreciation for the environment.

Location: 43-50 Main St, Flushing, New York 11355
Contact: 718-886-3800, kidsprograms@queensbotanical.org
Price: Varies widely based on age and program length, so check the website
Ages: 2–13

If your kid has ever looked out at the Hudson and thought, “I want to do that,” City Sail from Hudson River Community Sailing is the summer camp they didn’t know they were waiting for. This week-long sailing and STEM adventure lets kids ages 9 to 17 trade classrooms for catamarans and textbooks for teamwork—all while learning to navigate the water and the science behind it.

Held at Pier 66 in Chelsea and Inwood Hill Park, the program combines hands-on sailing instruction with STEM-based lessons in wind, water and navigation. Campers learn everything from tacking and jibing to reading charts and understanding the physics that make boats move. It’s learning, disguised as something cooler.

New sailors are encouraged to sign up for at least two weeks to build a solid foundation and reinforce skills through more time on the water. And no, they won’t be out in a storm. If the weather turns, the focus shifts to land-based activities, games and boat rigging until it’s safe to sail again.

For teens ages 14 to 17, there’s a dedicated Teen Sailing Camp with more advanced instruction and deeper exploration of sailing and leadership. Whether your kid wants to sail competitively or just master a new skill, City Sail is equal parts confidence-builder and memory-maker.

Location: West 26th Street & 12th Avenue, Pier 66, New York, NY 10001; 348 Dyckman St, New York, NY 10034
Contact: citysail@hudsonsailing.org
Price: $740/week
Ages: 9–17

If your kid is the kind who turns cardboard boxes into castles and mud into magic, play:groundNYC’s Summer Camp might be their summer dream come true. Held at The Yard on Governors Island, this camp is an unstructured, camper-led experience that encourages creativity, independence and getting gloriously messy in the process.

Kids ages 6 to 12+ spend their days digging, building, painting and inventing in a one-of-a-kind playspace packed with loose parts, tools and natural materials. There’s no set schedule and no hovering adults directing the fun—just trained playworkers who are there to support and ensure safety while letting the campers take the lead.

Each week looks a little different depending on who’s there and what sparks interest, but activities might include fort building, water play, collaborative games or turning found objects into full-on art installations. For older kids ready for more responsibility, the Playworker-In-Training program gives them the chance to help younger campers while learning leadership skills and supporting the play community.

Campers must be potty-trained and ready to take care of their own needs with gentle reminders—because this place is all about helping kids stretch their wings. If you're looking for a camp that prioritizes freedom, imagination and a whole lot of joy, this is the one.

Location: 40 Barry Rd, New York, NY 10004
Contact: 732-639-0316; play@play-ground.nyc
Price: Prices vary depending on family income
Ages: 6–12+