New York Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in New York
This itinerary focuses on a mix of free outdoor and indoor activities, alongside popular ticketed attractions, suitable for families with children aged 3-12. Please note that specific event schedules for February 2026, especially for free community events, are often released closer to the date. The New York Public Library event is based on typical programming around this time, and it's advisable to check the specific branch's calendar for the exact weekend. Ticket prices are based on current 2026 winter rates found and are subject to change. Purchasing tickets online in advance often provides a discount.
Friday Evening - Family Fun
Friday, February 20Library Arts & Crafts
Join a creative children's arts & crafts session at a New York Public Library branch.
These free programs are a wonderful way for kids to engage in hands-on activities, fostering creativity and imagination. The Hudson Park Library often hosts Friday afternoon craft sessions for children 5 and up.
Best for ages 5 and up, though younger children may enjoy with parental help. Supplies are usually provided. Restrooms available. Duration approximately 30-60 minutes. It's recommended to check the specific NYPL branch website for exact Friday programming and age recommendations for February 20, 2026, closer to the date.
Easily accessible by subway (B, D, F, M to 42nd St-Bryant Park or 7 to 5th Ave). Stroller friendly inside the library.
Casual Family Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed, kid-friendly dinner at a casual restaurant.
New York City offers countless options for every taste and budget, from pizza to diverse international cuisines.
Suitable for all ages. Most casual restaurants offer high chairs and kid-friendly menus. Duration 1-1.5 hours.
Accessibility varies by location. Many options are easily reachable by subway. Street parking can be challenging.
Saturday - Adventure Day
Saturday, February 21Bronx Zoo Exploration
Discover a world of wildlife at the Bronx Zoo, the largest urban zoo in America.
Explore diverse exhibits with animals from around the globe. Note that during the winter season (November-March), some seasonal attractions like the Children's Zoo, Monorail, and Butterfly Garden are closed, but many heated indoor exhibits and cold-weather outdoor animals are still available for viewing.
Great for all ages 3-12. Many indoor exhibits are heated. Restrooms and dining options available throughout the park. Stroller rentals are available. Plan for 3-4 hours of exploration.
Parking is available for $22 per car. Mass transit via subway (2 or 5 train to East 180th Street or West Farms Square / E Tremont Ave) is recommended.
Lunch Break
Grab a quick and affordable lunch.
There are dining options within the Bronx Zoo, or you can find local eateries nearby.
Variety of food options for families. Duration 45-60 minutes.
Walkable within the zoo or short walk/drive to nearby restaurants.
Central Park Playground
Enjoy some free playtime at one of Central Park's fantastic playgrounds.
Heckscher Playground, the park's largest and oldest, offers multiple climbing structures, slides, and swings suitable for all ages (1-12).
Ideal for children aged 3-12. Features include climbing structures, slides, and sand areas. Public restrooms are available within the playground. Duration 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible via subway (A, C, B, D, 1 to Columbus Circle / 59th St). Stroller-friendly paths within the park.
Stroll The High Line
Take an elevated walk along The High Line, a unique urban park built on a historic freight rail line.
Enjoy stunning city views, unique gardens, and various art installations. It's a fun and educational experience for the whole family, offering a different perspective of NYC.
Suitable for all ages. Paths are stroller and wheelchair accessible. Restrooms are available seasonally, check the High Line's website. Plenty of benches for resting. Duration 1-1.5 hours.
Multiple access points. Nearest subway stations vary by entrance (e.g., A, C, E, L to 14th St / 8th Ave for Gansevoort entrance). Consider using public transport, as parking in Chelsea can be challenging.
Sunday - Relaxed Day
Sunday, February 22New York Aquarium
Dive into marine wonders at the New York Aquarium in Coney Island.
Explore various exhibits featuring diverse aquatic life, including sea lions, penguins, sharks, and more. The Aquarium operates on winter hours in February.
Excellent for all ages, especially 3-12. Features accessible paths for strollers. Restrooms and food options available. Plan for 2-3 hours.
Limited parking available at $18 for up to 3 hours. Public transportation via subway (F or Q train to Coney Island-Stillwell Ave) is highly recommended.
Coney Island Lunch
Enjoy a classic Coney Island lunch experience.
While many seasonal stands might be closed in February, there are still year-round options for burgers, fries, or other casual fare.
Suitable for all ages. Restrooms available. Duration 45-60 minutes.
Walkable from the New York Aquarium.
Brooklyn Bridge Play
Experience the beauty of Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Kids can enjoy the expansive playgrounds at Pier 6, featuring sandboxes, swings, and climbing structures, or explore the recreational facilities at Pier 2. The park also offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Pier 6 is excellent for children aged 3-12 with various play areas. Restrooms are available. Paths are stroller-friendly. Duration 1.5-2 hours.
Accessible via subway (A, C to High St; F to York St) or bus. Parking in Dumbo can be challenging, public transport is recommended.
This weekend itinerary for New York can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.