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No matter the season, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden blossoms with fun for all ages. Photo by author

Exploring Crown Heights: Fun for the Whole Family

1. Brooklyn Botanic Garden

The serene oasis of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a wonderland for kids in every season—from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant foliage in the fall and a spectacular holiday light show. There are regular kids' classes and lots of seasonal events, plus a Discovery Garden designed for children, with hands-on nature play and kid-sized exploration zones. Bring a snack to enjoy in a quiet spot on the Cherry Esplanade; general admission is always FREE for kids under 12.

2. Crown Heights Library

This cozy library offers weekly story times, craft programs, and a children’s section full of engaging books for all ages. It’s a perfect quiet stop for a rainy day or mid-afternoon break from active outings. Check its calendar for story times and themed craft days. Weekday afternoons are usually less crowded for families.

3. Prospect Park Zoo

This sweet, walkable zoo is one of the best kid-friendly outings near Crown Heights, and it's just the right size for toddlers and preschoolers. Families love the sea lion feedings and the barnyard petting zoo, plus it’s stroller-friendly and rarely overwhelming. Arrive early to snag a spot for the daily sea lion show, and bring a picnic to enjoy in Prospect Park afterward.

4. West Indian Junior Carnival Parade

Skip the packed West Indian Labor Day Carnival and Parade, and hit the much mellower Junior Parade, which typically occurs just before Labor Day. The event begins at the Brooklyn Museum, and parades through Crown Heights, looping back to a large youth fest on the museum grounds. Kids dress up, march, and perform along Eastern Parkway, celebrating community, culture, and creativity. Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot—some kids hand out mini treats or crafts along the route!

The Brooklyn Museum is one of the city's preeminent cultural institutions. Photo by Diana Kim

Best Museums for Kids in Crown Heights

5. Brooklyn Museum

Nestled on the Crown Heights/Prospect Heights border, this Beaux-Arts gem offers a decades-spanning collection covering Egyptian, American, feminist, and more genres, plus a rotating calendar of family-friendly events. Hit the museum the first Saturday of every month for its FREE First Saturday activities, or, if you have young kids, try a hands-on activity at the recently renovated museum education center.

6. FiveMyles Gallery

This nonprofit gallery weaves together visual and performance art, often showcasing African and Caribbean artists, plus puppetry and kid-friendly performances integrated into local festivals like the annual Crown Heights Film Festival. Follow its social media for pop-up storytelling or puppetry events.

7. Brooklyn Children's Museum

The first children’s museum in the US, the BCM is packed with engaging hands-on exhibits—from Neighborhood Nature to miniature replicas of real-world shops in the World Brooklyn exhibition. Head to the Nest, a rooftop installation, on sunny days—it's a leafy jungle gym perch that offers a mini-break with big views.

8. Jewish Children’s Museum

The largest museum of its kind in the country, the Jewish Children's Museum offers interactive, multimedia exhibits that teach children of all backgrounds about Jewish heritage with play-based learning, including a rooftop mini-golf course themed around stages of life. Don’t miss the bead-making or pretend baking stations—great for sensory play and photo-ops.

9. Weeksville Heritage Center

A fascinating cultural site, Weeksville preserves the legacy of one of America’s first free Black communities. Its restored 19th-century homes and immersive tours offer storytelling that resonates with kids and grown-ups alike. Schedule your visit around a craft or storytelling event (often available for families)—the staff makes the artifacts come alive for children through hands-on learning. There's also a farmers and community market held monthly, which celebrates urban gardening.

10. Lefferts Historic House

A hidden gem right near the Prospect Park entrance, this 18th-century farmhouse is a must-do with kids in Crown Heights thanks to its hands-on history. In 2021, the Prospect Park Alliance launched an ongoing initiative to re-envision the mission and programming of the museum to focus on the Indigenous people of Lenapehoking and the Africans enslaved by the Lefferts family. Check the calendar for special events—they often feature FREE crafts and outdoor games on the lawn.

Must-Visit Parks and Playgrounds in Crown Heights

11. Brower Park

Find this leafy 4-acre green space with spray showers, a skate park, playground, and courts for all-ages across the street from the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. Bring a Frisbee or basketball. Try for an early afternoon visit after the museum school trips have wrapped up, as there are fewer crowds.

12. Lincoln Terrace Park

Wander through this 17-acre park, which boasts baseball fields, basketball courts, a playground, lots of open space for running, and the Lincoln Terrace Tennis Program for kids. It’s also a great place for biking practice on wide paths away from traffic. The playground on the north side, near East New York Ave, is usually less crowded.

13. Stroud Playground

This vibrant neighborhood playground and community gathering spot features climbing structures, swings, a dedicated space for little ones, and plenty of turf and open space for running and games. Its shaded benches make it comfortable for parents to relax while kids play. Weekday mornings offer a quieter playtime; it gets lively in the afternoons and weekends.

Kid-Friendly Restaurants in Crown Heights, Brooklyn

14. Royal Bakery & Roti House

A neighborhood staple, this spot offers fresh Trinidadian roti, doubles, and other West Indian classics that kids and adults devour. It’s casual and quick, making it an easy stop for families on the go. Try to go mid-morning or mid-afternoon—lines get long at mealtimes, and fresh doubles often sell out fast.

15. Dutch Boy Burger

This laid-back burger joint is known for its juicy burgers, hand-cut fries, and milkshakes that kids (and parents) can’t resist. The casual vibe makes it an easy choice for families, and the connected Franklin Park bar next door gives adults a chance to grab a drink if they’re tag-teaming mealtime. Go during off-hours (like mid-afternoon)—you’ll avoid the dinner rush, and kids get their food faster.

16. Island Pops

Hit your family's sweet spot at this beloved shop that serves up Caribbean-inspired ice creams and sorbets (think soursop or nutmeg). Kids love trying the bright colors and unique flavors that reflect the neighborhood’s roots. Ask for a sample flight—the staff loves introducing kids to new flavors.

17. Chavela’s

A family-friendly Mexican restaurant with a lively vibe and plenty of space for strollers, Chavela's is a hit with both adults and kids due to its festive decor and delicious tacos. Go for an early dinner before 6pm, as it's quieter and the staff won't be as rushed.

READ NEXT: 25 Things To Do in Prospect Park

Originally published in 2013.