With all the responsibilities of being an adult, there are moments when you want to break free and indulge in activities that bring out your inner child in NYC—even if it’s just for a day! Luckily, we have everything you need to do that! From amazing free concerts and top-notch dining options to gorgeous secret gardens and unique experiences that feel like they belong in another world, our energetic city truly offers something for everybody!
Check out these nostalgic activities that will transport you back to carefree days, reigniting your inner child! As adults, we all love those moments that give us a dose of dopamine. So, step into a world filled with bubbles or spend hours playing your favorite arcade games…we won’t judge! Explore our top picks for letting loose in and around New York City.
1. See massive waterfalls, watch dragons come alive and more
Let your inner child run wild at Arte Museum New York, a place where imagination takes center stage. Tucked inside Chelsea Piers, this digital art experience invites you to step away from the city’s chaos and rediscover that pure sense of awe you felt as a kid. Created by South Korea’s d’strict, the same team behind the viral 3D wave in Seoul from a few years ago, Arte Museum New York surrounds you with vivid sights, sounds and scents… all inspired by nature.
Wander through glowing forests, towering waterfalls, and see magical creatures leap off the walls. Whether you’re sketching your own dragon to life or sipping tea as the table shimmers beneath you, this dream-like escape is one NYC experience that will make you feel like a kid again, in the best way possible.
2. Explore 1,000 rare rock ‘n’ roll photos at this Rolling Stone’s NYC exhibit
Amplified is a brand new interactive exhibit curated by Rolling Stone magazine editors, filmmakers, and designers, taking over a historic space in Chelsea this spring. You’ll go on a visual journey this May through six decades of music history. See over 1,000 rare photographs—and even more surprises inside. It’s the ultimate experience for music fans and pop culture lovers.
3. Float away from reality at Bubble Planet
The most enchanting experience has opened just under an hour from Midtown. This whimsical ‘Bubble Planet’ is the perfect place to bring out your childlike side with over 10 bubble-themed rooms, where you can discover every kind of bubble imaginable. Don’t miss the VR experience that shows you what being inside a giant bubble would be like! This experience can be found at the American Dream Mall, where there’s also an indoor amusement park, water park, and more so plan to spend the day there for plenty of fun!
🫧Feel like a kid again—grab your tickets now!
4. Classic arcade games + cocktails? We’re in!
NYC has many cool arcades that bring back all the nostalgic, carefree childhood moments with bright neon lights and high-energy pop music. Most of these spots even have a full bar, so you can sip on a delicious cocktail while you play your favorite classic arcade games like Pac-Man, Atari Pong, and Jurassic Park or enjoy a game of pool or shuffleboard.
🕹️Read our full article on the best arcades in NYC!
5. See a thrilling Broadway show!
Catching a Broadway play is a must, whether you’re a local or visiting the city for the very first time. If you’re looking for a show to bring out your inner child, consider the award-winning ‘Harry Potter and the Cursed Child,’, ‘Moulin Rouge’, or ‘Aladdin.’
🎭 Check out our full list of Broadway shows!
6. Visit Luna Park in Coney Island for an incredible day of fun
Luna Park in Coney Island is a total blast for kids, and adults will love it too thanks to all its nostalgic vibes. The park reopened in March with some really cool upgrades. It’s a fun day out with friends or an epic date night with your S.O. You can really let loose and feel like a kid again, no matter your age!
7. Visit one of these incredible museums!
Spend hours exploring one of the many museums in NYC at your own pace and rediscover the best moments of your childhood. We could spend hours exploring these exhibits! Many of our favorites even offer free admission days, so you won’t have to spend a dime!
🏛️Check out our top museum picks!