Explore the exhibits and attractions at one of the world's largest museums, the American Museum of Natural History. The museum is home to over 32 million artifacts, and the various exhibitions are encompassed within 25 buildings, including 46 permanent exhibit halls. The kids will love learning about the secret lives of dinosaurs, the mysteries of space, the wonders of the human body and much more.
Grand Central Terminal was built by the New York Central Railroad in the prime time of American long-distance passenger trains. Since the decline in popularity of train travel, the terminal has become a booming attraction, home to five superior restaurants and cocktail lounges, including the world famous Oyster Bar and 20 casual eateries. The Grand Central Market is also housed in the terminal. Besides having specialty food stores, restaurants, accessory boutiques and more; the market is home to some big names in the shopping industry. Aveda, Banana Republic, Kenneth Cole, L'Occitane, M.A.C Cosmetics, Origins and Swatch are all available here.
Fans of art and sculpture will enjoy a stroll through the Socrates Sculpture Park, founded by an American sculptor named Mark di Suvero in 1986. What was once an abandoned landfill is now an outdoor exhibition space for sculpture and large-scale work. The park hosts events and programs like kids workshops, adult workshops, kite making and flying, fitness programs, outdoor cinema, and much more. In addition to encouraging and showcasing the creative expression of the featured artists, the park provides an environment conducive to artists, artwork and social interaction.
Feast your eyes on a little piece of history at the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. This attraction is a collection of architecturally significant buildings from the 19th century and was once a home for sailors. The 83-acre Snug Harbor is comprised of 26 buildings, built in the styles of Greek Revival, Beaux Arts, Italianate and Victorian. This National Historic Landmark District is considered to be the "crown jewel" of Staten Island.