Ah Brooklyn. While I only moved here in 2002, I feel a strong affinity for my chosen location. I am always impressed by the opportunities and activities for children. So when I read that Time Out New York Kids had voted Manhattan to be the best borough to raise children, I felt like I should speak up. Anyway, I always wanted to take the time to record a list of some of these wonderful attractions so that other parents who live, visit, and pass through our area can take advantage of some of the many things Brooklyn has to offer!

Here’s a list in no particular order:

Coney Island - In the past there were thousands upon thousands of families and people on the beach, taking rides at Astroland, and walking up and down the boardwalk. It was fun when my grandfather was growing up in the teens and 20s of the 20th century, and it is still fun today. On the 4th of July, watch Nathan’s hot dog eating concert in a swarm of people - or during the winter stroll the empty boardwalk and watch the waves crash in.

Brooklyn AYSO - Year after year hundreds of children and their families turn out for 3 seasons (Fall, Winter, and Spring - although they have added a summer camp as well) of soccer. Kids between the ages of 4 and 19 can participate…

Prospect Park - If you love Central Park in Manhattan, you will find yourself right right at home in this man-made 585 acre park of trees, lakes, and more right in the middle of Brooklyn. There are trails, tennis courts, a carousel, a bandshell where concerts are held, an ice skating rink, a zoo, historic houses, the Audobon Society and so much more.

Garden Markets and Food Co-op - Near Grand Army Plaza as well as near Borough Hall, you will find amazing garden markets that bring local produce and homemade foods in from local farmers. It really does remind us in the busiest of areas that Brooklyn isn’t that far removed from farms. Then, in Park Slope, you’ll find a food co-op that makes healthy food available to members of the community to lend their hands to making it work.

West Indian Parade - Once a year, on Labor Day, the largest parade takes shape. There are gorgeous costumes, tons of people, fabulous music, and jubilant people who come to celebrate.

Halloween - A friend who was relocating back to California was almost tempted to remain in the area just because of Halloween. Anyone who has participated in the family parade down 7th Avenue in Park Slope — trekked through the decorated brownstones of Carroll Gardens, or waded through the people around Garden Place in Brooklyn Heights knows what I mean! Halloween means neighbors out on their stoops to look at the creative costumes and children and parents alike having a great time.

Views - The funny thing about Brooklyn is that it is situated so perfectly… In Brooklyn Heights, the Promenade (off Remsen Street) showcases the most beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline. In Red Hook, off Coffey Street, you can head to the end of the pier for breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty. Or, if you prefer, stay on the F train and head to Smith and 9th Streets where there is an elevated platform to see it all…

Carroll Park Movies and Community Gardens - When we relocated to Brooklyn, my daughter did not know anyone. We randomly saw a sign for family movie night in Carroll Park. Then, we saw a community garden. In both places, my daughter found friends and activities that were (and still are) wonderful for children. From gardening to movies, these play and green spaces make our lives that much more livable.

Bandshell Concerts and BAM - Every summer, there is a series of concerts in Prospect Park at the Bandshell. But year-round, there are performances of all kinds at BAM. So, if you enjoy anything from salsa music to modern dance, you’re sure to find entertainment to suit your mood.

Aquarium and the Prospect Park Zoo - When we moved to Brooklyn, we wanted my daughter to have the perfect 9th birthday party, so we chose the Prospect Park Zoo. The zookeepers were helpful and provided hands-on activities for the children in her party. I thought this was unique, but they have hands-on activities all the time including a petting zoo and an animal demonstration! At the Aquarium in Coney Island, you can watch seals perform and then check out all kinds of other sea animals - including the cuttlefish.

Floating Pool - At first I thought it was a joke that a huge barge was being hooked up to a beach on the Brooklyn Heights Waterfront. My daughter and her friends checked it out though - but there was too long of a wait. We’re looking forward to it returning next summer though.

Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum - If you’re looking for one of the best collections of mummies in the United States, look no farther than the Brooklyn Museum. It houses many other things as well, but for kids, there isn’t much cooler than a mummified cat. I haven’t yet visited the Brooklyn Children’s Museum, but I hear that it is reopening this Spring!

Brooklyn Botanical Gardens - It is hard to believe that such beautiful gardens exist - and that there can be such quiet and peace among the hubub of our busy City life. Yet, this immense garden that boasts an herb garden, trees of every sort, flowers, and all kinds of plants also has a separate area just for kids where they can pretend and learn.

Greenwood Cemetery - I know citing a cemetery may seem like a strange choice - but this is certainly no ordinary place. Located near Greenwood Heights has famous artists, politicians, activists, and gangsters that are buried in everything from crypts to enormous statues. It was created in the 19th century as a tourist attraction and walking tours are still available.

Waterfront Museum and the Gowanus Canal - Brooklyn used to be quite industrial and remnants of its past are scattered all around. On a barge near the Brooklyn Fairway, one can learn more about the historic nature of the area and there are a variety of performers for children. Or you can lend a hand to cleaning up the Gowanus Canal - or simply enjoy a canal ride on it through part of Brooklyn into Gowanus Bay.

Do you have any other fun Brooklyn activities to add? Do you have any fond memories of the borough?

*Note: I will be writing about kid-friendly Brooklyn restaurants in a future posting.

If you would like to learn more about Brooklyn from the eyes of other people who also live here, check out other Brooklyn bloggers:

http://www.nycbloggers.com/
http://britinbrooklyn.blogspot.com/
http://gowanuslounge.blogspot.com/
http://onlytheblogknowsbrooklyn.typepad.com/
http://www.achildgrowsinbrooklyn.com/

Do you read or write a blog about Brooklyn? Please let me know!