Home to Major League Baseball’s New York Mets, Citi Field was built in 2009 and replaced the iconic Shea Stadium. The stadium has seen several great MLB and college baseball games as well as concerts and other special events.
In 2013, Citi Field was host to the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Today, you can catch a ball game or visit the stadium during an off day for a guided tour through the stadium including behind-the-scenes access to the clubhouses.
After you have explored New York’s Citi Field, you will want to check out more fantastic attractions nearby. From museums to amusement parks there is something fun for everyone, but drop your bags or heavy backpacks in a luggage locker before exploring the city. Don’t be weighed down by extra gear!
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
One of the most popular and well-known parks in New York, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, is a great place to spend a few hours. The Park played host to two World’s Fairs and has many great things for people to enjoy when here.
Visitors can play tennis, cricket, volleyball, baseball, soccer, basketball, and so much more or they can take a hike through the trails that wind through the park. Rent a bike and pedal through the trails or rent a kayak and enjoy time on the lake.
Fantasy Forest Amusement Park
Located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Fantasy Forest Amusement Park offers amazing fun for the entire family. Play classic carnival games, enjoy free shows and ride exhilarating rides. The park does offer special packages for large groups.
The amusement park is within walking distance of the Queens Zoo and the Hall of Science, both also located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Get your tickets to Fantasy Forest early, it is a popular attraction for families.
Queens Botanical Garden
Another popular attraction inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the Queens Botanical Garden originally was created for the 1939-1940 World’s Fair and was called Gardens on Parade. This humble five-acre showcase has grown into a fantastic place to visit.
The gardens officially opened in 1946 as the Queens Botanical Garden Society, in 1961 the gardens were moved to their current location which covers 39 acres. Several of the original plants from the World’s Fair were transplanted to the current location.
Queens Zoo
Spend an afternoon at the Queens Zoo, located in Flushing Meadows Corona Park on the site where the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs were held. The zoo opened its doors in 1968 and is a fantastic attraction for everyone, young and old.
In 1992, the zoo was redesigned by the New York Zoological Society to include the repurposing of the Winston Churchhill Pavilion into an amazing aviary. As you stroll through the 18 acres that make up the zoo, watch for many other historical buildings.
There are several attractions within the Queens Zoo that pay homage to the World’s Fairs that were held at that location. If you have children in tow, head to the petting zoo for fun, watch a few animal shows, and meet some of the animals.
Overlook Park
Overlook Park, also known as Hillside Park, is best known for its prominent position overlooking La Guardia Airport and the Ditmars community. Head to the original observation deck and watch the planes take off from La Guardia.
There are plenty of shade trees and benches where you can sit and enjoy the peacefulness of nature while still being in the city. The park is especially beautiful during the Spring and Fall. Pack a picnic and spend an hour or so soaking up the sunshine.
New York Hall of Science
Located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park, the New York Hall of Science, also known as the NYSCI, is a large science museum. The NYSCI was opened during the 1964-1965 World’s Fair and has since evolved into an interactive museum.
Everyone will love spending time at the NYSCI learning more about science through interactive exhibits. Hands-on learning for students is one of the best ways to learn about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).
The museum does become crowded in the afternoons so get there early to enjoy all the exhibits. There are over half a million people who visit the Hall of Science each year, making it one of the most popular science museums in New York City.
Queens Museum of Art
The Queens Museum of Art is a museum and education center that is located inside Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The museum is dedicated to preserving historical artwork as well as promoting quality educational and visual arts programming.
The museum offers cultural and international experiences for residents of the community. Grab your family or friends and spend a few hours at the Queens Museum of Art when you are near New York Citi Field.
Totem
This performance theater is home to Cirque du Soleil and is a marvelous place to spend an afternoon or evening. There are several shows to pick from and each show is amazing. The seating arrangements for each show are varied, giving you a different perspective.
Totem is located just minutes from Citi Field so you can catch an afternoon ball game and then head over to Totem for a terrific evening of mind-blowing acrobatics and unbelievable lighting and music.
Skyline Cruises
Located at World’s Fair Marina, Skyline Cruises has been in business for over 25 years and is one of the best dinner cruises in New York City. They also charter yachts and party boats in New York Harbor. Enjoy fabulous views of the city from the harbor.
Book passage on the Super Yacht Skyline Princess, an all-weather yacht that offers cruises all year round. You will not want to miss the opportunity to hop aboard one of the luxury yachts and spend an evening cruising the harbor.
Whether you are visiting New York Citi Field to watch a ball game or take a tour, there are plenty of other must-visit attractions in the area for you to explore. Most are family-friendly for those with kids in tow, so get out there and enjoy!
