Louise Finnell

Latest posts by Louise Finnell

Central Park Zoo with Kids: Best Things To See and Do at the Zoo

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Mon, 05/29/2023 - 8:39am

The Central Park Zoo sea lions never disappoint. Photo by Jody Mercier

Visiting the Central Park Zoo is one of the best ways to spend a day in Central Park with kids. From carriage rides to carousels, Central Park is full of possibilities for children of all ages, but you can't miss taking a walk around the Central Park Zoo, where children under 3 are always FREE.

Nestled on the east side of the park near 64th Street and 5th Avenue, the Central Park Zoo feels like a natural extension of the tranquil green space. Limestone carvings of animals adorn the brick buildings and are reminders of the history of this iconic spot. Here are our kid-tested (and parent-approved) highlights for visiting the Central Park Zoo, including where to see sea lions and how to find bathrooms.

For more things to do in the city with kids, check out our guide on the best things to see and do with kids in NYC and our list of the best zoos and aquariums in NYC, too.

Polar Express Train Rides and Christmas Trains near NYC in 2022

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Sun, 10/23/2022 - 9:10am

Join a magical trip on the Polar Express train ride with the Whippany Railway. Photo courtesy of the Whippany Railway

The magic of Chris Van Allsburg’s popular Christmas picture book The Polar Express comes to life again this winter with festive Polar Express train rides, Christmas trains, and holiday trolleys within a whistle's blow of the New York City metro area. A huge hit with kids and parents alike, these Christmas trains near New York City spark the imagination and holiday spirit with seasonal snacks, stories, and even gifts—not to mention a visit from Santa himself.

Old-school cabooses—some harking back to the 1920s—offer a classic holiday ambiance. No matter which Polar Express train ride you choose, your family can combine an annual Santa Claus photo-op with the lasting memories of a holiday adventure.

These Christmas train rides sell out quickly, often months in advance, so book now if you want to go. Find more regional Polar Express and Christmas train rides on our New Jersey and Philadelphia sites, and plenty more seasonal offerings in our Holiday Guide.

The Best Zoos and Aquariums in NYC

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Tue, 05/17/2022 - 5:33pm

It's always exciting to see the sea lion feeding at Central Park Zoo! Photo by Julie Larsen Maher/WCS

Ever think you would spot a seal in Manhattan or a giraffe in the Bronx? Did you ever hope you'd be surrounded by sharks at Coney Island? New York City zoos and the New York Aquarium offer families the chance to get up close and personal with animals from all over the world. From the Bronx Zoo to the Staten Island Zoo, each borough has its own unique zoo experience. Whether your children are big or small, there is a zoo in NYC suited to their age, interests, and attention span. Best of all, access to these creatures doesn't have to break the bank. Free admission can be as easy as picking the right afternoon to visit. Check out our insider tips for making the most of New York City's zoos and aquarium.

Family-Friendly Hiking Trails in NYC to Tackle This Fall

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Tue, 09/14/2021 - 5:08pm

Let your kids loose to run free on the hiking trails right here in NYC. Photo by Sara M.

At least once a quarter, usually coinciding with the change of seasons, someone in my family decides it's time to escape to the woods and hit the hiking trails. But really, there's no need to head upstate or to the 'burbs to get your outdoor fix. Our fair city is home to more than 300 miles of hiking trails and 10,000 acres of unencumbered nature.

We have sampled enough parks around NYC and spent enough time exploring the great outdoors to confidently share this list of family-friendly hiking trails within city limits. These hiking trails vary in length, scenery, and difficulty. Some are just right for little legs, and all reward hikers with views of water, bridges, and yes, gorgeous fall foliage. No matter what borough you call home, we hope you have a blast lacing up and hitting one of these hiking trails. You can find more outdoor places to play and explore in our Guide to Parks and Playgrounds.

Brooklyn and Queens Beer Gardens Where Kids Are Welcome

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Mon, 10/19/2020 - 4:18pm

Great eats and outdoor fun await at Greenwood Park. Photo courtesy the venue

When you're looking to grab a drink outside with the kids in tow, beer gardens are a great option, with plenty of space for little ones and menus packed with hearty fare that's sure to please picky palates. As it turns out, Brooklyn could give Bavaria a run for its money when it comes to kid-friendly beer gardens. So whether you have a special occasion to celebrate, or you're simply saluting the fact you've made it through another day of the pandemic, here are some of NYC's best beer gardens and halls where families can raise their glasses. We've even thrown in a couple of Queens spots, too.

For more dining options, check out our roundup of 20 restaurants in NYC offering outdoor dining and visit our Kid-Friendly Restaurant Guide for even more picks.

31 Things To Do in Gowanus, Brooklyn with Kids

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Thu, 09/26/2019 - 10:05am

Stop by Table 87 for a slice in Gowanus. Photo courtesy of Table 87

Gowanus may be sandwiched between the famously family-friendly enclaves of Carroll Gardens, Boerum Hill, Cobble Hill, and Park Slope, but the neighborhood holds its own in terms of cool hangouts and play spaces for kids.

With the promise of a $500 million Superfund cleanup of its odoriferous waterway, the Gowanus area is transforming from an industrial pass-through to a destination in its own right, complete with new condo development. Following in the footsteps of nearby Red Hook, warehouses have become art houses, and boutiques and restaurants are opening up left and right. It's no surprise that this Brooklyn neighborhood is attracting young families in droves.

Easy Day Hikes Near NYC for Families to Explore

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Thu, 09/05/2019 - 12:31pm

The Watershed Reserve in NJ offers more than 10 miles of hiking trails. Photo courtesy of Stony Brook Millstone Watershed

When the weather is fine, there are few things New Yorkers like better than a day outside with the family. Although NYC has incredible parks and playgrounds to explore, sometimes it's worth taking a day trip outside the city limits.

So pack a cooler and a picnic blanket and find your new favorite kid-friendly hiking destination among this list that takes you to the Hudson Valley, New Jersey, Long Island, and even some memorable parks within the five boroughs. Each of these hikes has something special to offer, and best of all, they are kid-tested and kid-approved!

Spotlight on STEM Programs for Kids in NYC

Submitted by Louise Finnell on Mon, 08/05/2019 - 2:41pm

Make your own robot at Launch Math and Science Centers.

If you have a child who's interested in science and math, you may already be familiar with the incredible STEM programs available to kids around New York City. The great thing about many of these programs is they encourage creativity and experimentation—two pillars of childhood fun, and great motivators that support learning outside a school environment. Read on for awesome exploration-based STEM programs for New York City kids focusing on science, math, technology, and creativity.