Queens is a cosmopolitan borough of New York City that has evolved into a visitor-friendly destination over the years. There are lots of activities for families and children of all ages, and many are free or low cost. Every season has something to offer from ice skating in winter to playing on the beach in summer.
The beach is the most popular family destination, and Rockaway Beach offers more than sand. There are seven playgrounds, and older children can use the courts for volleyball, basketball or handball. There are also skate parks and baseball fields. Families can swim together or cook in the barbecue areas.
Rockaway Beach
B3 to B149 Streets
Queens, NYC
www.nycgovparks.org/facilities/beaches
Queen's County Farm is a working farm dating back to 1697 and is the only farm of its kind in New York City. The 47 acres act as a farm museum with animals, farm vehicles and equipment, crops, old farm buildings, an herb garden and an orchard. Guided tours of the farmhouse are offered on weekends, or visitors can walk around freely if they prefer. The gift shop sells animal feed for the livestock, which includes sheep, pigs, hens, cows and goats, and bees are also kept. The farm organizes tractor-drawn hayrides. Schools visit the farm, and there are educational programs for grades pre-K to 9.
Queens County Farm
7350 Little Neck Parkway
Glen Oaks, NY 11004, United States
718-347-3276
queensfarm.org
Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the largest park in Queens and contains a number of children-friendly attractions. Families can skate on the ice in winter and use the Playground for All Children, an area designed for children with disabilities or without. There are only a few such playgrounds in the U.S., and the purpose is to encourage play and to educate. North American animals are displayed at the Queens Wildlife Center, which also contains a collection of domestic animals for children. The New York Hall of Science is the only interactive science and technology museum in the city and was built for the World's Fair in 1964.
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Between Van Wyck Expressway and Grand Central Parkway,
Queens, NYC
nycgovparks.org
Alley Pond Park is a conservation area with important natural habitats for wildlife. Its main attraction to children, however, is the ropes course. The high and low ropes are designed as a stimulating challenge, and children of all ages and abilities can join in. The idea is to teach teamwork and instill confidence as groups work together to maneuver through the obstacles under the guidance of the certified course leader. The course is made up of swings, nets, balance platforms leaps, a zip line and a climbing wall. Children ages 8 and up can participate in youth, camp or school programs.
Alley Pond Park Adventure Course
Little Neck Bay, Springfield Blvd., Union Turnpike
Queens, NYC
718-217-4685
nycgovparks.org
