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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of New York

Kid-friendly art museums

Introducing children to the world of color and form is a way to see the galleries through fresh, curious eyes.

Based on 628 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Brooklyn Museum image 1
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Art museum

Imposing neoclassical building with a modern glass entrance creates a grand and welcoming space filled with natural light. Atmosphere stays relaxed and intimate, inviting quiet art appreciation amid spacious galleries and visible storage showcasing behind-the-scenes art. African music and live bands add a distinctive cultural layer to the experience.

One of the largest and oldest art museums in the country, it offers wonderful art exhibitions spanning many styles and periods. The collection includes a notable 19th-century European Realist Art section with detailed plaques.

Different events for kids happen regularly, including art classes on weekends. Interactive areas like Artland offer fun experiences for children.

People are saying

"The museum's exhibits are amazing and surprisingly huge."

"It's really kid friendly with tons of hands-on activities."

"The Art Museum staff were so kind and helpful with the wheelchair."

Good to know

1

First Saturday events occur monthly with live music and pop-up activities.

2

The Thierry Mugler exhibit is available until May 2023.

3

Admission is pay-what-you-wish, but online reservations are recommended.

02
The Metropolitan Museum of Art image 1

Grand architecture hosts expansive art collections including an Egyptian temple and classical sculptures. Kids enjoy a super interactive area with art projects and themes like knights and armor. Spacious galleries and accessible features ensure a calm, impressive visit for all.

Exhibits feature elaborate and spectacular art collections. Recognized as one of the finest art museums in the world, it offers a top-tier experience among global art institutions.

A super interactive children's area offers plenty of art projects for kids to engage with. The space is accessible for wheelchairs and features themes like Ancient Egypt, knights, and armor that capture children's interests.

People are saying

"You can spend an entire day exploring this huge museum."

"This art museum has an extensive collection with works from all over the world."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my children loved the exhibits."

Good to know

1

Buy tickets online to skip the long lines at the entrance.

2

Members get early entry on weekends, so consider joining for quicker access.

3

Virtual queues are required during busy weekends, with wait times around 100 minutes.

03
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt image 1

Observation deck offers 360ยฐ panoramic views of the city skyline, including close-up sights of iconic buildings. Interactive features like a balloon room and mirrored installations create a unique, immersive atmosphere. A small cafe and cocktail bar provide refreshments while guests enjoy the spectacular cityscape.

Floating silver bubbles create a chaotic and entertaining exhibit on the second floor. Different rooms showcase varied art, including a cloud-themed display with helpful guides explaining the pieces.

Kids enjoy the balloon room with its unique reflection balloons. Staff like Louie help create precious memories for families.

People are saying

"The city views here are spectacular, especially with the mirror effects."

"The views here are amazing and breathtaking."

"I took incredible photos from the observation deck."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be booked in advance as the attraction is very crowded.

2

If you want to see the sunset, book your timeslot at least an hour earlier.

3

You must make a reservation and arrive at least 15 minutes before your check-in time.

04
Whitney Museum of American Art image 1

Modern art museum features stunning architecture and accessible terraces with panoramic city and river views. The atmosphere is generally calm with low crowd levels on weekdays, though weekends bring significant congestion. Rooftop cafe offers a relaxed spot to enjoy the vistas and drinks.

Exhibits focus on contemporary art with a strong emphasis on modern American artists. Galleries showcase innovative and thought-provoking works that engage deeply with current themes.

Educational activities engage children and teenagers with art through fun, hands-on experiences. Staff and guards provide friendly support while kids enter for free and navigate the space easily.

People are saying

"The galleries here have amazing and thought-provoking art."

"The Art Museum's terraces offer unforgettable city and river views."

"It's a kid-friendly place with spectacular educational activities."

Good to know

1

Every Friday, the museum has free tickets, and you just have to book ahead.

2

Friday night is free entry from 5 PM to 10 PM.

3

Second Sundays are free to enter.

05
Color Factory NYC image 1

Interactive rooms filled with vibrant colors and creative photo opportunities create an immersive experience that appeals to all ages. Spaces like the deep ball pit and sensory-rich installations invite playful exploration and capture joyful moments. The atmosphere buzzes with energy, offering a lively and engaging environment throughout.

Interactive exhibits create a genuinely engaging experience that invites participation. The art displays are consistently interesting and fun, encouraging visitors to explore actively.

Bright, interactive exhibits keep kids engaged and excited. Kids often ask to visit twice, showing how much they enjoy the hands-on fun and colorful experiences.

People are saying

"I had a blast with all the fun activities here."

"It's a fun and colorful experience that kids and adults will enjoy."

"This interactive art museum is surprisingly fun for all ages."

Good to know

1

Advance booking is required to secure your spot for the event.

2

Expect long lines even with pre-purchased tickets; arrive early.

3

The experience is designed to be completed in about 1-1.5 hours.

06
Museum of Arts and Design image 1

Museum offers avant-garde exhibits across multiple floors with innovative design and creative art stations. Spaces feel spacious and uncrowded, featuring a top-floor restaurant with panoramic city views. Activities for children and a well-regarded gift shop add to the diverse experience.

Smaller than major NYC museums, this art museum features Funk art and exhibits like hair as art that bring a unique and often humorous perspective.

Interactive activities help kids understand exhibitions better. Exhibits like the Taylor Swift Storyteller engage children and require an extra ticket. Both young art fans and kids enjoy the experience.

People are saying

"I found the museum's exhibitions to be varied and interesting."

"This art museum is smaller and less crowded than others."

"The Barbie exhibit is really well done and totally Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

The museum is free to enter on Thursdays.

2

Admission is $18, with discounted rates available on Thursdays.

3

Restrooms are located on the lower ground level.

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Mercer Labs image 1
Art museum

Immersive rooms combine LED light displays, sound and vibration experiences, and interactive digital art to engage multiple senses. Visitors encounter large-scale projections and mirrored environments that create surreal, kaleidoscopic effects. The space feels futuristic and sensory-rich, with distinct areas designed for different moods and interactions.

Interactive exhibits use state-of-the-art light technology to create a deeply immersive experience that engages multiple senses. The collection blends classic and contemporary art with a strong visual and interactive focus.

Young and curious children find engaging activities here that hold their attention for hours. The space encourages collaborative music-making with installations featuring archetypal children working together.

People are saying

"The museums here are visually stunning and immersive."

"It's a breathtaking, kid-friendly place that disconnects you from the city."

"This art museum is an immersive, high-tech wonderland."

Good to know

1

Tickets for children under 5 cost $50 each.

2

Mercer Labs is not suitable for young kids due to intimidating imagery.

3

I recommend buying tickets in advance for Mercer Labs.

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