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The Best of New York · With kids · Things to do with kids

The best children’s museums in New York.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 10 places.

Exploring New York City with kids can be a real treat, thanks in large part to the great children’s museums spread across the city. From hands-on exhibits to immersive experiences, these museums offer the perfect mix of fun and learning, making them a must-visit for families.

Whether your kiddo is fascinated by science, art, or just loves to explore new things, NYC’s children’s museums have something for every curious mind. In this guide, I’ll take you through some of my favorite spots, enjoy!

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide

Best children’s museums in New York, 2026

  1. American Museum of Natural HistoryMuseum · Upper West SideWelcoming 5 million visitors per year and spanning all aspect of the natural world, the American Museum of Natural History is arguably the best museum in NYC for kids.
  2. Children’s Museum of ManhattanMuseum · Upper West SidePart-museum, part-indoor playground, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is all about inspiring the next generation of creative thinkers through educational exhibits.
  3. Museum of Ice CreamMuseum · SoHoIf the answer is kids, then yes the Museum of Ice Cream is easily one of the best museums in NYC with little kids.
  4. New York Hall of ScienceMuseum · QueensThe New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is, hands-down, one of the coolest museums in New York City that kids are guaranteed to enjoy.
  5. New York Transit MuseumMuseum · Downtown Brooklyn
  6. The Brooklyn Children’s MuseumMuseum · BrooklynConsidered one of the best children’s museums in New York City, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum encourages kids to explore the world from different perspectives.
  7. The Intrepid MuseumMuseum · MidtownHome to a remarkable collection of military vessels of the sea and sky, the Intrepid Museum is a must-see for military enthusiasts, history buffs and kids obsessed with ships and planes.
  8. National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath)Museum · FlatironThe National Museum of Mathematics, also known as “MoMath” is one of the most kid-friendly museums in NYC and the only museum in the country dedicated to math.
  9. New York City Fire MuseumMuseum · SoHoIf your kiddos are enthralled with blaring red trucks, then a trip to the New York Fire Museum (NYFM) is in order.
  10. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & StorytellingMuseum · HarlemIt’s an inexpensive interactive modern art museum full of activities and fun for little kids to partake in.

On the map

Where they are.

8 neighborhoods, Upper West Side and SoHo most of all.

SoHo

Upper West Side

Brooklyn

Downtown Brooklyn

Flatiron

Harlem

Midtown

Queens

Best children’s museums in New York, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 11 Best Children’s Museums in New York City (Fun & Educational).