The Battery (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Battery?
What makes it 90% Kids-Friendly: Kids gain hands-on farm programs, large playscape, ferry departures to Liberty Island, and the glowing carousel; free restrooms and rangers help, yet weekend lines can test patience.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No entry fee lets families explore gardens and playgrounds at no cost.
- Stroller-Friendly Paths: Wide paved paths make it easy to push strollers around the park.
- Hands-On Learning: Kids can join farm tours and activity carts without extra fees.
Challenges:
- Weekend Crowds: The park and carousel fill up on weekends; arrive early to avoid lines.
- Limited Shade: Some areas lack tree cover; bring hats and sunscreen.
- Ticket Lines: Carousel tickets sell on site only; expect a short wait at peak times.
What is The Battery?
- A public waterfront park at the southern tip of Manhattan, spanning 25 acres of landscaped gardens, promenades and open lawns
- Site of the 19th-century Castle Clinton and an array of monuments honoring veterans, early settlers and immigrants
- Overlooks New York Harbor, with ferry terminals connecting to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
What is so special about The Battery for with kids?
- Ride the glowing SeaGlass Carousel for kids
- Join free playscape science and art stations
- Use scavenger-hunt worksheets for a self-guided tour
- Explore the Battery Urban Farm and taste fresh produce
- Camp under the stars with s’mores on summer weekends
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A visit of 1-2 hours lets kids enjoy the carousel and playground without tiring them.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Battery
SeaGlass Carousel:
Ride one of 30 glowing fish for a gentle spin.
Tip: Buy $5 tickets on arrival; children under 42″ ride free on a lap.
Playscape Activity Stations:
Join science and art drop-in carts at playgrounds.
Tip: Available May–October; no sign-up needed, just stop by.
Scavenger-Hunt Worksheets:
Download and print family guides to find plants and animals.
Tip: Get worksheets online before you arrive to save time.
Farm Tours for Kids:
Explore the Battery Urban Farm and taste fresh produce.
Tip: Sign up on the Events Calendar; tours run April–October.
Camp-Out Under the Stars:
Overnight family tents with bug shows and s’mores.
Tip: Register two weeks before select July and August weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Battery
- Visit Early: Arrive when the park opens to beat the crowds and heat.
- Pre-Download Guides: Get scavenger-hunt worksheets online to dive straight into the fun.
- Plan Farm Tour: Check the Events Calendar and reserve your spot for the farm tour.
Reviews of The Battery
Petr Kupka
One of starting point to survey lower Manhattan, and also for the trip to or pass the Statue of Liberty. A little strange was a lot of "official" tourist agents who offered the boat trip around the SoL, Brooklyn bridge for approx. $40 per person. We use the free ferry to the Staten island which offers nice view to the SoL and from the ferry's back also very nice view to the lower Manhattan with s...
Alexandru Nesteriuc
A lovely place to stroll and relax before or after the Statue of Liberty tour! I really enjoyed walking through The Battery - it’s peaceful, scenic, and offers a great view of the Statue of Liberty. My kids loved the playground right next to the park, which made it a perfect family stop. There were quite a few people helping organize and guide visitors heading to the Statue ferries, which made ev...
Ali
Beautiful and peaceful place right by the water. You get an amazing view of the Statue of Liberty and the New York Harbor. It’s perfect for a walk, to relax, or just sit and watch the ferries go by. The park is clean, well maintained, and has a calm atmosphere even though it’s in the city. Great spot to start your trip to Liberty Island or just enjoy the sunset.
Shaliza Szuba
This park is only blocks away from the beiges and Midtown but it’s a different atmosphere. Loved coming here when visiting NYC and had a great time walking around. Was surprised to see the gardening scene and figs growing in Manhattan! Coming here for the Sea Glass Carousel and then the Staten Island Ferry was great!
TANVEER AHMED
One of the best places to visit New York City. One side is surrounded by the beautiful NYC skyline and another side surrounded by the sea and Hudson River. Beautiful pictures from this area. The Statue of Liberty is visible as well. Loved this place.
When is the best time to visit The Battery (New York, United States)?
From May to October, enjoy weekly drop-in science carts. In July and August, sign up early for weekend camp-outs under the stars.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| SeaGlass Carousel tickets (4×$5) | USD 20 |
| Snacks at waterfront café | USD 20 |
| Statue of Liberty ferry (4×$18.7) | USD 74.8 |
| Total Estimated | USD 114.8 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of The Battery
Address: New York, NY 10004, USA
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About The Battery
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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