MacNRG

Take a walk on the wild side as a family at the Bronx Zoo. Around 4,000 animals live here in what is considered to be the nation's largest metropolitan zoo. The 265-acre park is home to a variety of exhibits and attractions that house animals like lions, zebras, tigers, elephants, giraffes and many others.

Let the kids run wild at Hudson River Park. The park is full of kid-friendly activities like tennis courts, soccer fields, batting cages, and a playground. Many New York City attractions are connected by the park, including Battery Park, the World Trade Center site, the World Financial Center, Chelsea Piers, Pier 57, Pier 63, Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum and Riverside Park.

While exploring Staten Island, stop at the Alice Austen House for a unique museum experience. The Dutch Colonial style home, often referred to as Clear Comfort, was built between 1690 and 1750, and belonged to photographer Alice Austen until 1945. The home now houses a museum featuring work from Austen and other photographers. The Austen House also offers etiquette classes, art camps and small concerts.

Architects will appreciate the exhibits at the Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum. The museum is housed in the former Andrew Carnegie Mansion and features exhibits and artifacts that showcase design history, along with contemporary design. The collection is showcased in four departments: Product Design and Decorative Arts; Drawings, Prints and Graphic Design; Textiles, and Wallcoverings.