If you have a toddler, you probably search often for things to do together that are fun, engaging and educational. There are many options for activities such as this on Staten Island where your child can play, learn and discover. A bonus is that many of these activities are free or relatively inexpensive to enjoy. Browse our list of activities for toddlers on Staten Island that includes museums, story time sessions and so much more. Keep in mind it’s a good idea to call ahead or check each activity’s website, as some require advance registration.
Activities for Toddlers on Staten Island
Tot Time Tuesdays
WHERE: Clay Pit Ponds State Park Preserve • 2351 Veterans Rd. W.
718-6065-3970 x201
HOURS: Tuesdays; 10-11:30am
PRICE: Free
Bring your toddler to this indoor free play group that explores a different nature theme each week. It’s a great place to introduce your child to nature, animals and the environment!
Little Movers Story Time
WHERE: Various New York Public Library branches
HOURS: Varies per branch
PRICE: Free
Head to one of several libraries on Staten Island that offer story time and activities for toddlers and their caregiver.
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Visit a Playground
WHERE: Throughout Staten Island
HOURS: Generally open 6am-9pm
PRICE: Free
Playgrounds are wonderful places for children to play and be active. With NYC Parks playgrounds dotted throughout Staten Island, you’re sure to have one in your neighborhood!
Picnic at Wolfe’s Pond Park
WHERE: 420 Cornelia Ave.
HOURS: NYC parks are generally open 6am-10pm or 1am, but hours can vary.
PRICE: Free—just bring your picnic basket!
From scenic water views to beautiful sprawling grounds filled with trees, Wolfe’s Pond Park is a great place to set up lunch and enjoy the fresh air with your little one.
Staten Island Children’s Museum
WHERE: 1000 Richmond Terr.
HOURS: Saturday-Sunday, 10am-1pm and 2-5pm. Also open on many school holidays.
PRICE: $8; free for children younger than 1
Toddlers will love this whimsical and educational museum located on the grounds of Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden. It’s home to 12 exciting exhibits, workshops and lots of events for kids and families to enjoy.
Speaking of Snug Harbor…
WHERE: 1000 Richmond Terr.
HOURS: Grounds are open daily, dawn to dusk.
PRICE: The outdoor grounds are free to explore.
After visiting the Staten Island Children’s Museum, stick around Snug Harbor for a while! The grounds are beautiful and free to explore. The colorful gardens and sprawling campus provide wonderful backdrops for photos that you’ll cherish for years to come.
The Staten Island Zoo
WHERE: 614 Broadway
HOURS: Open daily; 10am-4:45pm
PRICE: $10; $7 seniors; $6 ages 3-14; free for children ages 2 and younger
It’s always amazing to see animals, no matter how old you are! Explore the zoo with your little one, and see majestic wildlife such as leopards, monkeys, snakes and soooo many more. Don’t forget to say hello to the friendly farm animals, too. The alpaca, chickens, goats, bunnies and other furry and feathered friends are waiting for your visit!
Ride a Carousel
WHERE: The Carousel for All Children • Willowbrook Park
HOURS: Season runs May-October
PRICE: Check the website or call 718-667-2165 for season updates.
The Carousel for All Children is a Victorian-style merry-go-round that opened in 1999. Toddlers can delight in riding wood figures depicting mythical creatures, endangered species and traditional carousel horses.
Enjoy Inflatable Fun at Kids ‘N Shape
WHERE: 153 Main St.
HOURS: Check the online calendar for open-play availability. Reservations required.
PRICE: $15 per child
Inflatable obstacle courses to jump on and run through are part of the fun during open play sessions at this local children’s fitness center.
Seaside Nature Wildlife Park
WHERE: Nelson Avenue and Tennyson Drive
HOURS: Generally open 6am-9pm.
PRICE: Free
It’s so rare to find a playground at a beach, but here’s one for your tot to enjoy. The nautical-themed park features a lighthouse, shark to climb on and play units that resemble the Staten Island Ferry. It’s also a great place to explore nature as it’s surrounded by nearly 20 acres of wilderness.
Music and Movement
WHERE: New Dorp Library • 309 New Dorp Ln.
HOURS: Check the library’s online events calendar
PRICE: Free
Enjoy an hour of dancing, singing and so much more at this fun library event.
Head to The Mall
Sometimes just strolling through a mall with your toddler can be great parent-and-me time. You can window-shop, look at cool toys and gadgets, and enjoy a nice lunch in the food court.
Enjoy a Movie
It’s never too early to introduce your child to cinema! Head to a local movie theater to see the latest kid flick together.
Visit a Nature Center
Discover the natural beauty of Staten Island with your toddler by visiting a local nature center. Many of these sites have activities and materials designed to educate and engage visitors of all ages, including younger children.
Spend an Afternoon at Cloves Lakes Park
There’s so much for a toddler to see and do at this big park on Staten Island. See your child look up in awe at the famous giant tulip tree, which is 107 feet tall—not to mention at least 300 years old! There’s also a playground and hiking trails. If you want to bring your pup along, there’s a dog-friendly area too!
