As the first hint of springtime enters the air, men and women around the country and across the globe start eagerly preparing for the vacations they’ve been waiting all winter to take. For millions of like minded individuals, this means a trip to New York City — often with little ones in tow. Fortunately, the Big Apple is full of entertaining and educational activities for little ones if you know where to go. Discover the New York your children will love with a trip to some of the city’s most kid-friendly destinations.

The American Museum of Natural History: There are few places the world with the power to captivate children for hours like the Museum of Natural History. Spread across 2,000,000 square feet on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, this massive museum celebrates Earth’s beautiful biodiversity, from plant matter to deep-sea creatures. Little ones will love looking at the museum’s dinosaur skeletons, taxidermy displays, and planetarium, and, unlike many other museums, there’s plenty of room for them to run around without breaking anything.

Chelsea Piers: After a winter spent cooped up indoors, your kids might just need to expend some of their excess energy. If your kids could benefit from some active play, head over to Chelsea Piers, where they can go ice skating, practice their swing at the batting cages, go rock climbing, or play on the facility’s gymnastics equipment, trampolines, and foam pit.

The Empire State Building: Undoubtedly the most iconic building in New York City, the Empire State Building’s sweeping views of the city and family-friendly exhibits will make it a hit for your kids this spring. After checking out the views from the building’s Observation Deck, treat your little ones to a trip on the Skyride, an exhilarating and interactive tour of the city.

The Central Park Zoo: One of the world’s most famous zoos, the Central Park Zoo has been delighting children and adults alike since it first welcomed guests in 1864. With 6 and a half acres to explore and over 150 animals to look at, the zoo will have your children amused for hours.

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan: Educational experiences don’t get much more exciting than the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Located just a few blocks from the Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side, this interactive museum is full of activities to pique your little one’s curiosity, from exhibits on Muslim artwork around the world to touch-and-feel stations for babies and toddlers.

If you’re planning a trip to New York City this spring, make sure to bring your kids along for the fun — from museums to zoos, there’s kid-friendly excitement at every turn.

Note: This is a guest post by Candace Schaffer; the views and opinions expressed are those of the author. Candice Schaffer works at Knightsbridge Park, a leading digital marketing firm for luxury real estate brands such as Ink Well, The Carlton House and The Woolworth Tower.