It’s finally summer, and there’s no better time to explore the best art New York City has to offer as a family! Exposure to diverse art experiences cultivates children’s curiosity, promotes life-long learning and academic success, and creates formative memories. Here are some ideas that might bring art and adventure to your family this summer.

STIMULATE THE MIND BY VISITING ART MUSEUMS

On super hot or stormy days, head to one of the many art museums around the city. You don’t need to know anything about art to have fun at an art museum together.

• PLAY I SPY: Everyone’s favorite guessing game is perfect for looking closely at art. 

• ASK QUESTIONS:  What do you notice?  What do you see that makes you say that? 

• SKETCH: Bring a pencil and sketchbook to slow down your museum experience. It doesn’t matter how or what you draw, all that matters is what drawing helps you notice.

• CREATE YOUR OWN TITLES: Make up your own titles to artworks. See if they match the labels.

• BE A SCULPTURE : Can you mimic the position of the people or animals depicted in the artwork? Try to pose just like someone in a painting. 

• PLAY THE ARTIVITY GAME: Use the web-based Artivity Game on your phone as you explore

• Get your Culture Pass from the Brooklyn Public Library for free admission to many NY Cultural Institutions. See this list of NYC museums with information about free days, special events, and other useful information. 

STIMULATE THE BODY WITH DIFFERENT MODES OF TRANSPORTATION 

There’s a surprising amount of art to discover in New York City subway stations. Ride the train above ground, below ground, and across the Manhattan Bridge to find hidden gems. 

• Take the Manhattan-bound Q train from Dekalb Avenue and discover Masstransiscope, a 300 ft long piece of art that appears animated as the train zooms passed it. 

• Ride the Staten Island Ferry and have a close encounter with the colossal Statue of Liberty.

• Enjoy a Sunset Cruise on the NYC Ferry. Take the north bound route of the NYC Ferry at sunset and enjoy the beautiful architecture of the Manhattan skyline at dusk. 

• Take the 6 min boat trip to Governors Island to discover contemporary art installations, visit the amazing Play:Ground, go on massive slides, and ride a bike for 4.

• Get some new perspective as you soar above Manhattan on the funicular to Roosevelt Island 

• Ride the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park City and be immersed in an underwater wonder. 

STIMULATE THE SOUL WITH DANCE AND MUSIC

Not in the mood for museums or public transport? That’s okay! Find some music instead.

• NIA Free Summer Concerts at Shore Road Park in Brooklyn every Tuesday evening and a special kids concert Saturday, July 23rd!

• Free family concerts in the Archway of the Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO every Thursday

• Weekly Little Island Saturday morning sing-along and other family music & theater events

• Family ballet workshop, concerts, musical story time — all free at the Lincoln Center