5 Fun Things To Do Before School Starts In NYC

As summer winds down in New York, school-year anticipation grows for kids and parents alike. This is the perfect occasion to take advantage of those dwindling summer days. Share quality time as a family before the hustle and bustle of studying and school activities begins. Family vacations are great, but if you don't have the time or funds for a full-fledged trip then have fun with these perfect places for end-of-summer outings in and around New York City.

More: NYC's 5 Best Family Friendly Summer Activities

Nothing honors the end of summer in New York more than a day at the beach, and Long Beach is an easy trip from New York City. The Long Island Rail Road stops in the center of this city by the Atlantic Ocean. Take a short stroll from the train to one of the many beach entrances, then jump right into the waves and watch the surfers fly by. Build a sand castle with the family and take a walk on the boardwalk, or rent bicycles and explore the city. Then finish the day with a relaxing evening at one of Long Beach's many restaurants within walking distance of the boardwalk.

A fun outing in the park promises a perfect day before the studying begins. Flushing Meadows provides a whole lot of fun for the entire family. This park is accessible to all, easily reached by car, train, subway or bus. Host to two World's Fairs, the park still has historic remnants on display as remembrance covering two towns with ample places to relax and picnic. Enjoy a day at the Queens Zoo, or ride the carousel. Take in the beauty of the Botanical Garden, or help the kids get excited about this school year at the New York Hall of Science. The Queens Museum of Art provides a pleasant respite to enjoy art and local culture as well. The 124-acre park also provides homes for the Met's Citi Field and the USTA National Tennis Center.

Once school begins there will be little time for a day of relaxation and enjoyment. Take a day to view New York City's skyline from the water on a sightseeing cruise. Circle Line hosts cruises that provide views of New York landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Cloisters -- perfect for a local history lesson that feels like everything but. Circle Line also offers fun kids cruises with magicians, face painters and live entertainment.

Amusement parks provide a day of fun and excitement for every age. Rye is located right outside of the Bronx in Westchester County, an easy drive from the city. Take advantage of Metro North's one-day getaway package to Rye Playland's family amusement park. One ticket includes a roundtrip train ticket, Metrocard and entrance to all of the rides. Enjoy a day of amusement before the seriousness of the school days begin.

Price: $15 for one hour/$20 for two hours/$32 for four hours/$40 all day/
Note: Cut the price by more than half by reserving your rental online
Cost includes helmet, basket, a lock and map

A day of bike riding in New York City's largest and loveliest park burns a bit of energy before the days of school begin. Rent bicycles by the hour or for an entire day. Explore the park's terrain while everyone sweats it out. Stop by the Central Park Zoo and say hello to the animals, then take a rest and enjoy a nice meal. Helmets are provided for safety, and a roomy basket will hold a picnic lunch.