Paulina Jayne Isaac

Kids love summer, but parents might get a little stressed out trying to plan activities to fill the time. No worries—there are plenty of incredible summer activities for kids in NYC to keep the little ones entertained. With beautiful summer weather, it’s prime time to head outdoors and explore the city’s endless hiking and biking trails. Prefer a more laid-back day? Hit the beach, visit a playground, or dive into one of the city’s many other outdoor adventures. When the heat cranks up or summer showers roll in, don’t sweat it—there are plenty of indoor escapes. Think classic summer fun like arcades, laser tag and trampoline parks. And let’s not forget, summer is the perfect season for amusement parks, water parks and trips to family resorts. No matter what your kids are into, we’ve got you covered with the best summer activities in NYC to keep them entertained all season long.

School will be out for the summer before you know it, so it’s time to start making plans for the summer. How will you keep the kids entertained? There are plenty of playgrounds, parks, and outdoor activities to keep them off the couch and active, but there’s nothing like a summer camp that provides enriching, entertaining experiences. Summer camps in NYC range from academic to athletic to just plain fun, not to mention sleepaway camps that give you a little more room to breathe. Whether you’ve got an animal lover, an outdoor enthusiast, a budding scientist, or a sporty type, there’s a summer camp offering just the right schedule of opportunities. And if you want to get in on the fun, check out the best family camp programs in the city.

Not all kids have the opportunity to go camp, therefore not all adults have been to camp. If you’re a grown-up with a family of your own and thinking that your time to experience camp has passed—it hasn’t. It’s called family camp! Parents and kids alike can enjoy outdoor activities, sports, and team-building exercises. If you don’t want to send your kid to camp (or maybe you do and just want to tag along), try checking out a family camp program this summer. Instead of going to Disney World again or taking that cruise you’ve been thinking about, try something new. Get the whole family in the car with one destination in mind: The great outdoors. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best summer activities for kids in NYC

Summer in NYC means something different for every student. Some spend every day at the beach, some visit out-of-state family members, and then there are others who go to camp. The NYC area is saturated with summer activities for kids with a variety of interests—including academics. You’re sure to find an academic camp on this list that will fit your kid’s interests. Whether it’s music, dance, science, or math—we’ve got some great options. The one aspect they all have in common is that they make learning super fun. Be sure to have a gander at the 2024 programs and register for one—or more!—cool camps. While you’re filling out that seasonal bucket list, make sure to have a look at our favorite summer activities for kids. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC

Schools out! No more math homework, reading assignments, or art projects. If the thought of your kids having nothing to do for the summer gives you pause, then consider trying one of New York City’s best day camps for kids. ​​Day camp is a win-win for parents and children. Campers get to socialize, learn, and have fun with their peers and camp counselors. Meanwhile, parents can feel good knowing that their kids are making memories that will last a lifetime. Check out some of our favorite day camps for NYC kids below! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC ​​

Alright, parents, here’s a big question for you: Do you or don’t you send your kid to sleepaway camp? There are some who will jump at the idea, while others are hesitant. Saying “goodbye” to your kiddo for a few weeks (or more) can feel nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. Pairing the right kid with the right camp can be just what your child needs this summer. The East Coast is a great place for a summer camp. Nature provides a beautiful backdrop and whether the camp is in Upstate New York or a quick drive away in Connecticut, your child is guaranteed to make lifelong memories. Nothing's off limits, so prepare for an adventure! If you have the jitters, read what the experts have to say about summer camp here but also consider a day camp! Breathe a sigh of relief!  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to summer camps in NYC    

The 2021–2022 school year is on its way, and these fantastic school supply stores can help! You're going to need pencils, notebooks, binders and cool gadgets to send your kids back to school in style, so head to these school supply stores to get everything you need without making a million trips.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to getting kids back to school in NYC

We'll admit: 2021 is a tricky year to navigate. Although there is still so much up in the air about the back-to-school season, you can rely on fun after-school programs to keep kids learning after the bell rings. From online music classes and art pods to foreign language tutoring and dance class, we'll help you discover what's being offered virtually and in-person—and what's still TBD. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to get your kids back to school in NYC

Summer doesn't last forever, much to kiddos' disappointment, and you'll have to prepare for the back-to-school season eventually. Get ahead of the curve with a visit to these school uniform stores in NYC. Whether you need to stock up on new pennyloafers or find a different-colored sweater, these spots have you covered.  Each company takea the edge off your family's September prep. While you're adjusting to new schedules, buying supplies and signing your kids up for various programs, you can feel settled knowing that their wardrobe is set. Enjoy getting ready for a new academic year. Maybe take the kids out for a scoop of ice cream after visiting these school uniform stores—they might feel a bit blue picking up their clothes! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to get your kids back to school in NYC

So many stories, so little time. Our favorite book clubs for kids will ensure that your budding bibliophile is reading the coolest picks on the bestseller list (and beyond)!  Venture to indie bookstores in NYC for a list of gatherings geared toward youngsters. Not only will they fall in love with new authors and genres, but they'll be able to chat with friends about those chapters they wish never came to an end.  If your Matilda in the making can't get enough, don't just settle for the best book clubs for kids NYC families swear by. Be sure to also venture to our go-to kids' library branches and sit in on an engaging storytime for kids. Who knows? The first stop for your moppet is a book club, and the next could be a publishing deal!

Preparing for back to school in 2021 means shopping for fun school supplies: pencils, notebooks, backpacks, crayons, and more. But getting the kiddos ready for the new school year can be stressful if family resources are low and there are multiple tots in the house. Thankfully, there are spots around NYC that offer free school supplies so no child is left behind come the first day of class. Check out these wonderful locations giving out free school supplies around the city so kids can get set for the new year without breaking the bank. Even better? There's plenty of fun surrounding the giveaways, so it's a win-win situation.  Habana Works Back to School Bash No need to mourn summer when you have an event like this on the horizon! Celebrate the back-to-school season with half off Habana’s kids’ menu, plus fun crafts and activities hosted by your favorite local vendors. There is also a live DJ during the event so the whole crew can bust a move! Expect free goodies like notebooks, pencils and rulers—kids will leave feeling like they’ve won the lotto. Habana Outpost, Brooklyn (habanaworks.org). All ages. ICNA Relief Back 2 School Giveaway Program The Islamic Circle of North America hosts a nationwide giveaway campaign to outfit thousands of kids living in low-income neighborhoods with school bags and necessary supplies. Learn more about the program and its distribution centers here.  Freecycle.org Families looking for free school gear might be able to find it right in their own b