School trips don’t have to be a snooze fest. There are tons of things to do with kids in NYC, and we’ve compiled our list of the best school trip ideas so you can take the kiddos on a fun adventure in the Big Apple! Whether you’re looking for a place where they can let loose, or an educational trip through one of the city’s various landmarks, we can guarantee one of these ideas will fit the bill.
1. Plan a private Candlelight concert
If you’re a teacher, taking your class to a concert might just be the coolest thing you’ll ever do. Candlelight Concerts have charmed over 3 million attendees across the globe and they offer a series of classical-inspired concerts here in NYC. String quartets, pianists and more reimagine your favorite artists, from Hans Zimmer to Taylor Swift — all at the heart of a candlelit venue. Candlelight makes for a great school trip, since you can handpick your program and build your own experience from scratch. Find out how!
2. Gather inspiration at We Call It Experiences
Take the kiddos to experience the significance of jazz, ballet or even flamenco at these exciting We Call It experiences. Each event is a cultural expression that blends traditional dance and music with modern technology for a unique adventure the kids won’t soon forget. Book the private kid-friendly event for your class!
3. Organize your own experience with Fever
As a teacher or parent, you know what your kids will relate to the most. Fever has plenty of events in store that vary from concerts and musical performances, if that isn’t their jam. Tours, exhibits, immersive experiences… You can have your pick. Plan your bespoke event with Fever right here.
4. Plan a kid-friendly museum day
A museum day will always get the kids excited and most importantly, their minds working. Many NYC museums offer free admission days for visitors of all ages to enjoy exhibits throughout the city. Whether you’re choosing the Children’s Museum of the Arts, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum or the American Museum of Natural History, the kiddos will have a blast. Check out our list of the best kid-friendly museums in NYC!
5. Jump in an ocean of bubbles at Bubble Planet
The kids will love Bubble Planet. While it’s a bit further out, the exhibit in Jersey City features 10 bubble-themed rooms to explore, with a VR section and so much more. Plus, kids under four get in for free and there’s a special bundle for bigger groups. An XXL ‘Bubble Bath’ pit, a bathroom filled to the brim with rubber ducks, an eclectic infinity room… If it isn’t kid heaven, we’re not sure what is. Get tickets!
6. Meet cute animals at the zoo & aquarium
Children will love to wander through The Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo and The Bronx Zoo, paying a visit to their favorite animals and exploring the various exhibits. The New York Aquarium also makes for a great kid-friendly trip with indoor and outdoor exhibits, a 4-D theater and plenty of other adventures. Check out ticket options here.
7. Take in the stunning NYC cityscape
What’s more New York than taking the ferry? From the Staten Island Ferry, you’ll see breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, including Lady Liberty. The ferry runs throughout the day from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan to St. George Terminal on Staten Island. And, once you’re there, you can keep the fun going with our guide of things to do on Staten Island!
8. Smell the flowers at the New York Botanical Garden
During the warmer months especially, New York Botanical Garden is the school trip by excellence. When you book a group visit, you’ll get access to the various gardens and exhibits, including seasonal programming. With discounts for the purchase of 15 or more tickets and option of private tours and on-site dining, NYBG is the “perfect group day out.” Book your spot for the New York Botanical Garden!
9. Stand atop The Empire State Building
Just because it’s one of NYC’s most iconic landmarks doesn’t make it overrated. Classes love to witness the breathtaking views from the 86th floor of the Empire State Building. Plus, you’ll embark on a true educational journey with the 12 galleries of the ESB, home to rich exhibits on the building’s history, how it was built, and the renovation work that has gone into maintaining it throughout the years.
10. Say hello to Lady Liberty
Another NYC classic that your kiddos will love. Take the ferry once more, this time to Ellis Island, and explore the wonder of the statue up-close. At the heart of the landmark, you’ll learn all about its history — from its construction to its evolution through the years. The building features interactive exhibitions galore, and you can even make a stop at the Ellis Island Immigration Museum for a well-rounded educational trip.