Even in the hustle and bustle of New York City, there's one tradition that brings everyone together, no matter the borough: baseball.
From the legendary rivalries that ignite the city to the heroes who have become household names, baseball is deeply embedded in New York’s DNA. It’s where stories of underdogs and champions are made, and kids and parents dream of catching a foul ball as a tangible piece of the magic.
Whether it’s the Yankees or the Mets, the city's loyalty is divided, but the love for the game unites everyone — families included!
For families in NYC, let’s look at how you can enjoy the rich baseball activities that the city has to offer.
When it comes to iconic baseball stadiums in NYC, there are two that immediately come to mind:
Citi Field and Yankee Stadium.
For the budding baseball fanatic, visiting these venues is a must!
As the vibrant home of the New York Mets, Citi Field is where baseball magic comes to life for fans of all ages.
Picture this: your kids sliding down a giant baseball glove slide and testing their pitching speed, all under the watchful eyes of their favorite mascot, Mr. Met. It's not just fun; it's an unforgettable experience woven into every game day.
The stadium offers family-friendly seating that ensures everyone gets a fantastic view of the action, from the tiniest tots to the grandparents. And for those strolling in with little ones in tow, the stadium is stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate the concourses.
Plus, the Mets Hall of Fame & Museum is a must-visit for families, offering a fascinating glimpse into the team's storied history, perfect for inspiring the next generation of fans.
Yankee Stadium: a place where history and modern-day excitement meet. Monument Park, a tribute to the legends who have donned the pinstripes, offers a serene, awe-inspiring experience, connecting families with the heroes of the past.
For a deep dive into the Yankees' lore, tours of the Yankee Stadium unlock an array of artifacts that tell the tale of the team's rich history.
Yankee Stadium understands that families come in all sizes and has tailored its amenities to match. They designed special family seating areas to give young fans a clear view of the field, making sure they don't miss a pitch or a hit.
And because the little ones might need a break, baby-changing facilities are readily available, ensuring that even the youngest fans can enjoy the game in comfort.
While the glamour of Major League Baseball (MLB) captures the hearts of many, New York City and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of baseball experiences beyond the MLB that are equally thrilling and more intimate for families.
From college baseball to Little League and the engaging atmosphere of minor league teams like the Long Island Ducks and Brooklyn Cyclones, there's a whole world of baseball waiting to be discovered by families looking for fun, affordability, and a strong sense of community.
The Long Island Ducks, an Atlantic League of Professional Baseball member, play games at Fairfield Properties Ballpark in Central Islip, New York.
With affordable ticket prices, promotions, and events tailored for families and kids (such as fireworks nights, mascot races, and autograph sessions), the Ducks create a festive and engaging atmosphere perfect for a family outing. The team's commitment to the community and fan engagement makes every game a memorable experience.
Over in Brooklyn, we have the Brooklyn Cyclones.
As an affiliate of the New York Mets, the Brooklyn Cyclones offer fans a unique blend of competitive baseball and entertainment, set against the backdrop of the iconic Coney Island. MCU Park, where the Cyclones play, provides stunning ocean and amusement park views, adding a unique vibe to the baseball experience.
The Cyclones are known for their themed nights, giveaways, and family-friendly entertainment, making each game a special event. From the chance to run the bases to enjoying the post-game fireworks, a Cyclones game is an affordable, fun-filled option for the whole family.
New York's college baseball scene offers families a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the game in a more relaxed and intimate setting. College games allow young talent to be seen in action, often in smaller stadiums where fans can get closer to the field and players.
With affordable ticket prices and a family-friendly atmosphere, college baseball games are an excellent way for kids to get inspired by players not much older than they are!
For a glimpse into the grassroots of baseball, attending local Little League games is a heartwarming experience.
These games offer a pure view of the sport, played for the love of the game by kids who dream of becoming the next baseball star. It's a community event where families can enjoy a day out, cheering on young athletes.
For those with friends and siblings who play, why not make a day out of watching them? It’s a great way to support loved ones and enjoy the game at the same time.
You may also look into signing your child up for a little league baseball team — it’s a great place to start in baseball!
Little League games underscore the joy of baseball and are often free to attend, making them a budget-friendly option for families.
Finding affordable ways to enjoy a baseball game with the family in New York City can be as strategic as the game itself.
With ticket prices varying widely based on the game, the day, and the opponent, knowing when and where to look for the best deals can make all the difference.
Here are some insider tips on scoring those sought-after discounts, family packages, and promotions, ensuring a home run experience for the whole family without breaking the bank.
Baseball games are a fantastic way for families to spend time together.
However, keeping young children entertained through nine innings can sometimes be challenging!
Here’s how to make the most of game breaks and keep the little ones engaged and excited.
Keeping kids engaged from their seats can also be fun with a little creativity. Here are some baseball-themed games and activities they can play:
Turning a baseball game into a full-day family adventure maximizes the fun and allows you to explore more of New York City's offerings.
Whether you visit a museum to soak in the cultural atmosphere, relax in a park, or treat yourself to some delightful food, there's no shortage of ways to extend the joy and excitement beyond the ballpark.
Here are some suggestions to create a memorable day out for the entire family.
After experiencing the excitement of a live baseball game, nothing beats picking up a bat and glove to play some ball yourself.
New York City and its surrounding areas offer numerous opportunities for families to engage in baseball, from batting cages to public parks and youth leagues.
Here's a roundup of places where families can practice baseball, fostering a love for the game and developing skills in a fun, supportive environment.
Central Park - Beyond its scenic beauty, Central Park boasts several Great Lawn and North Meadow baseball fields. These iconic fields offer a picturesque setting for a family game.
Prospect Park - In Brooklyn, Prospect Park features baseball fields that are well-maintained and popular among local families and baseball enthusiasts.
Van Cortlandt Park - The Bronx's Van Cortlandt Park is another excellent option, with multiple baseball diamonds where families can play and practice together.
Experiencing the magic of baseball in New York City is one thing — but what about the kids who want to get involved and start playing this incredible sport?
No matter your skill level, a summer baseball camp is a great place to start!
Future Stars offers summer baseball camps filled with fun for all ages and skill levels. We offer baseball programs at seven of our locations:
Don’t wait — sign up for Future Stars baseball camp today and give your child a summer of fun!