Dreaming up a big outing for your crowd of little ones? Whether it’s an afternoon exploring the great outdoors with your scout troop or a fun-filled day at a local museum, Staten Island is full of group-friendly destinations that children love. Keep reading to learn more about the key to coordinating a stress-free group outing, as well as the best places to visit with a group of kids in Staten Island!
Getting Around Staten Island with a Group
One of the aspects of planning a group outing with kids that’s often overlooked is how everyone is going to get to and from your destination. While public transit and carpooling can be great options for a few travelers, medium- to large-sized groups—especially ones with children!—may want to consider reserving a private transportation solution like a minibus shuttle or charter bus rental.
Local providers like GOGO Charters Staten Island, Easy Charter Bus Staten Island, and New York Charter Bus Company offer custom reservation plans to suit your number of passengers, ideal itinerary, and even what amenities you want aboard your Staten Island bus rental. Whether your kids want to watch a movie with an onboard DVD player or you need an ADA-compliant coach bus with a wheelchair lift, these charter bus companies can connect your group of kids and chaperones to a safe and reliable ride to Staten Island’s top destinations.
Staten Island Zoo
614 Broadway, Staten Island, NY 10310
If your kiddos love animals, planning a visit to the Staten Island Zoo is an easy way to keep them entertained while learning about the world’s wildlife. This zoo is home to over 1,100 animals and offers a rotating selection of educational programs and animal meet-and-greets. Come say hi to the city’s signature groundhog, Chuck, then check out exotic residents like spider monkeys, leopards, meerkats, and more.
While group discounts are unavailable now, large groups can book private educational programs catered to your group’s age or interests and rent out the cafe for birthday parties and other celebrations. Plus, there is free parking for oversized vehicles like private motorcoaches!
Staten Island Children’s Museum
1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M, Staten Island, NY 10301
This all-ages children’s museum offers interactive experiences for all types of learners! Tiny tots will love building larger-than-life towers in Block Harbor, while older kids can put on a performance on a child-sized stage, play in an interactive fire station, or learn about bugs and flowers in the outdoor gardens. Groups of 10 or more are advised to reserve their visit two weeks ahead of time, and free admission days are offered on select days throughout the year.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden
1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island, NY 10301
This 83-acre park offers beautifully curated gardens, plenty of space for your kids to stretch their legs, and group-specific programs that include a private 90-minute outdoor tour and a hands-on workshop. Whether you’re learning where your food comes from at the Heritage Farm or trying your hand at calligraphy in the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, groups of all ages are sure to learn a thing or two while exploring this beloved local greenspace.
Historic Richmond Town
441 Clarke Ave, Staten Island, NY 10306
Rather than reading about daily post-colonial life in a history book, why not learn about it firsthand? This destination is a living history village, which means visitors are invited to talk with the historians and actors simulating a typical day in Staten Island between 1770 and 1860. From printmaking to blacksmithing, your kids can watch experts at work and ask them questions about their craft in this interactive outdoor museum. If your group is coming in by private bus rental, have your charter bus driver park in the designated lot near the visitor’s center for easy access when everyone’s ready to head home.
SPONSORED CONTENT BY EASY CHARTER BUS STATEN ISLAND