# Indoor and rainy-day activities for kids in NYC (1780) > Indoor play spaces, museums, pools, climbing gyms and classes to keep kids busy when the weather turns. For free library story times, see the story times… URL: https://littlegotham.com/guides/rainy-day-indoor-activities-nyc/ [Home](https://littlegotham.com/) / [Guides](https://littlegotham.com/guides/) / Rainy day activities for kids in NYC ## Indoor and rainy-day activities for kids in NYC Indoor play spaces, museums, pools, climbing gyms and classes to keep kids busy when the weather turns. For free library story times, see the story times guide. 1,780 listings. [Filter & map these](https://littlegotham.com/explore/?indoor=indoor) 167 free 1,780 indoor ### By borough [Manhattan 624 ](#gb-manhattan) · [Brooklyn 559 ](#gb-brooklyn) · [Queens 346 ](#gb-queens) · [Bronx 119 ](#gb-bronx) · [Staten Island 132 ](#gb-staten-island) ### Manhattan 624 listings [Abrons Arts Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/abrons-arts-center/): Lower East Side Price on site Henry Street Settlement A Lower East Side arts center with free contemporary art galleries, theaters and studios, run by Henry Street Settlement. Families can visit exhibitions and attend performances and community arts events. All ages Daily Indoor [American Museum of Natural History](https://littlegotham.com/activity/american-museum-of-natural-history/): Upper West Side Kids $22 The city s famous natural history museum, home to dinosaur skeletons, a life-size blue whale, gem halls and planetarium shows. Kids can explore dioramas, the Gilder Center s insectarium and butterfly vivarium, and hands-on discovery rooms. Ages 2–17 Daily Indoor [Apollo Theater](https://littlegotham.com/activity/apollo-theater/): Harlem $17 The Apollo Harlem s legendary performance hall offers reservation-only guided tours that take visitors backstage and through the history of the artists who launched careers on its stage. Families can also catch performances such as the famous Amateur Night, and school groups can book curriculum-based tours. All ages Mon, Wed, Sat Indoor [Arsenal Gallery](https://littlegotham.com/activity/arsenal-gallery/): Central Park Free NYC Parks A small free gallery on the third floor of the Arsenal, NYC Parks headquarters inside Central Park near the zoo. Rotating shows often explore nature, parks and the city, making it an easy art stop during a Central Park outing. All ages Mon–Fri Indoor [Asphalt Green Upper East Side – AGUA Swim Academy](https://littlegotham.com/activity/asphalt-green-upper-east-side-agua-swim-academy/): Yorkville Price on site Asphalt Green Asphalt Green s Yorkville campus hosts its AGUA Swim Academy, with song-and-game classes for babies and toddlers, preschool lessons for ages 3–5, and Foundations and Core levels for kids 5–16\. A free parent-and-child Water Explorers program is also offered. Ages 0–16 Daily Indoor [Cooper Union Saturday Program](https://littlegotham.com/activity/cooper-union-saturday-program/): East Village Free The Cooper Union A free Saturday visual arts program for New York City public high school students, held on Cooper Union s East Village campus. Teens take studio classes in drawing, painting, design and more, with portfolio courses for juniors and seniors heading to art school. Ages 14–17 Sat Indoor [Grand Central Terminal](https://littlegotham.com/activity/grand-central-terminal/): Midtown Free Metropolitan Transportation Authority The Beaux-Arts train station where kids can spot constellations on the Main Concourse ceiling, test the Whispering Gallery and watch trains come and go. Official 90-minute guided tours explore hidden corners. All ages Daily Indoor [Intrepid Museum](https://littlegotham.com/activity/intrepid-museum/): Hell s Kitchen Kids $28 A museum aboard a retired aircraft carrier docked on the Hudson, where kids can see fighter jets on the flight deck, go inside the submarine Growler and view the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Interactive exhibits cover flight, naval life and space exploration. Ages 3–17 Daily Indoor [Marshall Chess Club Junior Programs](https://littlegotham.com/activity/marshall-chess-club-junior-programs/): Greenwich Village Price on site Marshall Chess Club One of the oldest chess clubs in the country hosts Sunday junior tournaments and runs the Marshall Chess Academy with classes and school-break camps for young players. Kids get to play rated games in a historic Greenwich Village brownstone. Ages 5–17 Mon, Wed–Sun Indoor ### Brooklyn 559 listings [Powerhouse Arts Crafternoons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/powerhouse-arts-crafternoons/): Gowanus Free Powerhouse Arts A free drop-in workshop series at the Gowanus creative production center where families build tunnel books, design puppets and sculpt miniature artworks. Each session ties into a current exhibition, and no registration is needed. All ages Sat Indoor [Shorefront Y – Lenny Krayzelburg SwimRight Academy](https://littlegotham.com/activity/shorefront-y-lenny-krayzelburg-swimright-academy/): Brighton Beach Price on site Shorefront Y The Shorefront Y s swim academy follows the SwimRight method, taking kids from 3 months old through nine levels that end with all four competitive strokes. There are also swim teams and Red Cross aquatics courses. All ages Mon–Fri, Sun Indoor [Smack Mellon](https://littlegotham.com/activity/smack-mellon/): DUMBO Free A nonprofit gallery in a former DUMBO industrial building that shows large-scale work by emerging and mid-career artists, free of charge. Its Art Ready program offers free art mentorship for NYC public school students. All ages Wed–Sun Indoor [Greenpoint YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/greenpoint-ymca-swim-lessons/): Greenpoint Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Greenpoint YMCA in Greenpoint runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Park Slope Armory YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/park-slope-armory-ymca-swim-lessons/): Park Slope Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Park Slope Armory YMCA in Park Slope runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Prospect Park Audubon Center at the Boathouse](https://littlegotham.com/activity/prospect-park-audubon-center-at-the-boathouse/): Prospect Park Free Prospect Park Alliance & Audubon New York The nation s first urban Audubon Center, set in Prospect Park s Boathouse by the Lullwater. Families meet park animals at free Animal Encounter sessions, borrow gear for nature exploration and join beginner bird walks. Ages 2–12 Sat, Sun Indoor [Prospect Park YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/prospect-park-ymca-swim-lessons/): Park Slope Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Prospect Park YMCA in Park Slope runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Barclays Center Tours & Family Events](https://littlegotham.com/activity/barclays-center-tours-family-events/): Prospect Heights $35 Barclays Center Brooklyn s arena offers 75-minute behind-the-scenes tours and pregame tours where fans watch players warm up. Families can also catch Brooklyn Nets and New York Liberty games and touring family shows. Ages 2–17 Indoor [Brooklyn Bridge Park Environmental Education Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/brooklyn-bridge-park-environmental-education-center/): Brooklyn Heights Free Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy A waterfront learning space where kids get hands-on with East River science, from local wildlife to the park s salt marsh and plants, during free open hours and scheduled programs. Ages 3–14 Thu–Sun Indoor ### Queens 346 listings [Alley Pond Environmental Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/alley-pond-environmental-center/): Douglaston Suggested $5 An environmental education center in Queens with resident animal ambassadors, nature trails through Alley Pond Park s wetlands and woods, and a big menu of classes. Toddler classes start before age 2, with weekend, homeschool and free programs for older kids. Ages 1–14 Daily Indoor [Flushing YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/flushing-ymca-swim-lessons/): Flushing Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Flushing YMCA in Flushing runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Jamaica YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/jamaica-ymca-swim-lessons/): Jamaica Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Jamaica YMCA in Jamaica runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Long Island City YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/long-island-city-ymca-swim-lessons/): Long Island City Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Long Island City YMCA in Long Island City runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [NYC FIRST STEM Center @ QPL Far Rockaway](https://littlegotham.com/activity/nyc-first-stem-center-qpl-far-rockaway/): Far Rockaway Free NYC FIRST Located in the Far Rockaway library, this free STEM center lets kids 12 and up build robots, learn design software and try fabrication tools during after-school drop-in hours. Ages 12–17 Tue–Fri Indoor [NYC FIRST STEM Center @ QPL Jamaica Central](https://littlegotham.com/activity/nyc-first-stem-center-qpl-jamaica-central/): Jamaica Free NYC FIRST Inside Queens Public Library s central branch, middle and high schoolers take robotics and technical workshops and use design and fabrication equipment with guidance from STEM staff. Access is free with an NYC FIRST membership. Ages 12–17 Tue, Thu, Fri Indoor [Ridgewood YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/ridgewood-ymca-swim-lessons/): Ridgewood Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Ridgewood YMCA in Ridgewood runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Indoor [Cross Island YMCA](https://littlegotham.com/activity/cross-island-ymca/): Bellerose Price on site YMCA of Greater New York Kids at this community Y take part in swim classes, youth sports, teen programs, and holiday or school-break activities in a shared family setting. Program offerings and times vary by season, so families check the branch schedule. All ages Indoor [Cross Island YMCA Youth Sports](https://littlegotham.com/activity/cross-island-ymca-youth-sports/): Bellerose Price on site YMCA of Greater New York Neighborhood YMCA offering youth sports classes and leagues such as basketball, soccer and fitness, plus swim lessons and after-school programs. It serves eastern Queens. Ages 3–17 Indoor ### Bronx 119 listings [NYC FIRST STEM Center @ Andrew Freedman Home](https://littlegotham.com/activity/nyc-first-stem-center-andrew-freedman-home/): Concourse Free NYC FIRST Teens drop in to use 3D printers, laser cutters, CNC routers and electronics gear, get hands-on help with robotics team builds, and join workshops in coding, fabrication and engineering. Membership is free and grants walk-in access during open hours. Ages 14–17 Mon–Wed, Fri Indoor [El Maestro Boxing & Cultural Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/el-maestro-boxing-cultural-center/): Longwood $65 El Maestro, Inc. A Bronx community boxing gym where kids learn boxing basics alongside mentoring aimed at self-control, leadership and anti-bullying confidence. The center also runs music, art and storytelling activities rooted in Puerto Rican, Latino and African American culture, and kids 8 and older can go on to compete. Ages 6–17 Mon–Fri Indoor [Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club – Lucile Palmaro Clubhouse](https://littlegotham.com/activity/kips-bay-boys-girls-club-lucile-palmaro-clubhouse/): Soundview Price on site Kips Bay Boys & Girls Club The flagship Kips Bay clubhouse in Soundview, with an Olympic-size pool, an indoor domed turf field and the Bronx s only ice rink. Members play basketball, baseball, soccer, flag football, softball and ice hockey, and can learn to skate. Ages 6–17 Mon–Fri Indoor [Northeast Bronx YMCA Swim Lessons](https://littlegotham.com/activity/northeast-bronx-ymca-swim-lessons/): Williamsbridge Price on site YMCA of Greater New York The Northeast Bronx YMCA in Williamsbridge runs YMCA swim lessons in its indoor pool, from parent-and-child water play for babies and toddlers to preschool classes for ages 3–5 and stroke-building levels for school-age kids and teens. Families can also use scheduled family swim times. All ages Daily Indoor [St. James Recreation Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/st-james-recreation-center/): Fordham Free NYC Parks A historic Bronx center with a gym, game room with billiard tables, and youth programs. Young members can play pickup games, join sports clinics, and take part in arts and enrichment programs offered each season. All ages Indoor [St. Mary s Recreation Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/st-mary-s-recreation-center/): Mott Haven Free NYC Parks A South Bronx center with an indoor pool, gym, and youth media classes. Kids and teens with a Parks youth membership use the gym and activity rooms, and staff run after-school, sports, and arts programming for school-age children. All ages Indoor [Williamsbridge Oval Recreation Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/williamsbridge-oval-recreation-center/): Norwood Free NYC Parks Sits in Williamsbridge Oval park, near its track, fields, and playground. Kids and teens with a Parks youth membership use the gym and activity rooms, and staff run after-school, sports, and arts programming for school-age children. All ages Indoor [Baby Power Bronx](https://littlegotham.com/activity/baby-power-bronx/): Wakefield Price on site Baby Power Forever Kids A parent-and-child play program mixing gymnastics and music activities designed around each stage of early development. Classes are kept small, and the space also hosts parties and weekend play by appointment. All ages Mon, Wed–Sat Indoor [Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum](https://littlegotham.com/activity/bartow-pell-mansion-museum/): Pelham Bay Park $15 Bartow-Pell Conservancy An 1836 Greek Revival mansion with formal gardens inside Pelham Bay Park. Guided tours show kids how a wealthy 19th-century family lived, and the grounds are great for a picnic. Ages 7–17 Wed, Sat, Sun Indoor ### Staten Island 132 listings [Art Lab at Snug Harbor](https://littlegotham.com/activity/art-lab-at-snug-harbor/): Livingston $352 Art Lab, Inc. An independent fine and applied arts school on the Snug Harbor campus with youth classes in drawing, painting, ceramics and fiber arts grouped from preschool through teens. Seasonal half-day and full-day art camps run in spring, summer and winter. Ages 3–17 Daily Indoor [Greenbelt Nature Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/greenbelt-nature-center/): Heartland Village Free Greenbelt Conservancy / NYC Parks The hub of Staten Island s 2,800-acre Greenbelt, with nature exhibits and trailheads into LaTourette Park s woods and wetlands. Families join guided hikes and nature programs or head out on the Blue Trail. Ages 2–14 Indoor [Faber Recreation Center](https://littlegotham.com/activity/faber-recreation-center/): Port Richmond Free NYC Parks A North Shore center beside Faber Park and its outdoor pool. Kids and teens with a Parks youth membership use the gym and activity rooms, and staff run after-school, sports, and arts programming for school-age children. All ages Indoor [Ocean Breeze Track & Field Athletic Complex](https://littlegotham.com/activity/ocean-breeze-track-field-athletic-complex/): South Beach Price on site NYC Parks A large indoor track-and-field facility near South Beach built for competition, with a hydraulically banked track. Youth track clubs train and race here and it hosts school meets. Ages 6–17 Indoor [Sweetie House Playground & Café](https://littlegotham.com/activity/sweetie-house-playground-cafe/): Mariners Harbor Price on site Sweetie House An indoor play space where little ones climb, slide and dive into ball pits, plus a carousel, while parents can grab food at the attached café. It also hosts birthday parties, lessons and a summer camp. Ages 1–10 Daily Indoor [Blade Runner Fencing](https://littlegotham.com/activity/blade-runner-fencing/): Castleton Corners Price on site Staten Island fencing club running classes from the beginner Mini Musketeers group up to youth foil and épée and competitive teams. Kids practice drills, footwork and bouts in the St. John s Lutheran gym. Ages 5–17 Mon–Sat Indoor [Casa Belvedere - Italian Cultural Foundation](https://littlegotham.com/activity/casa-belvedere-italian-cultural-foundation/): Grymes Hill $5 The Italian Cultural Foundation at Casa Belvedere Housed in a historic Grymes Hill mansion, this cultural center offers kids hands-on Italian cooking classes and beginner Italian language lessons. School, scout and camp groups can book programs with Italian games, music, dance and gardening. All ages Mon, Fri, Sat Indoor [Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve](https://littlegotham.com/activity/clay-pit-ponds-state-park-preserve/): Charleston Free NY State Parks A 260-acre state preserve of ponds, wetlands, sandy barrens and woodland on Staten Island s west shore. The interpretive center has wildlife specimens and runs free nature walks, pond studies, bird walks and Tot Time for little ones. Ages 2–14 Tue–Sun Indoor [Garibaldi-Meucci Museum](https://littlegotham.com/activity/garibaldi-meucci-museum/): Rosebank Kids free Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America The Rosebank home of inventor Antonio Meucci, an early telephone pioneer, who sheltered Italian hero Giuseppe Garibaldi here. Exhibits explore invention and Italian American heritage. Ages 6–17 Wed–Sat Indoor ### Quick answers Where can kids burn off energy indoors in NYC? 786 indoor play spaces and gyms are listed, including Grand Central Terminal, Chelsea Market, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. Which indoor places for kids in NYC are free? 167 indoor listings are free, such as Grand Central Terminal, Arsenal Gallery, Chelsea Market. Which boroughs does this guide cover? 1,780 listings: Manhattan (624), Brooklyn (559), Queens (346), the Bronx (119), Staten Island (132). --- LittleGotham: things to do with kids in New York City. 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