General interest camps
Want a well-rounded kid? Then treat her to a session at a well-rounded camp.
A.C.T. August Vacation Camps
Mon July 30–Fri Aug 17 9:30am–4pm. Extended hours available for a fee. 1047 Amsterdam Ave at 112th St (212-316-7530, actprograms.org). Subway: 1 to 110th St–Cathedral Pkwy. One week $350–$420 depending on age and camp session; session for four- and five-year-olds $760 for two weeks.
Kids engage in a variety of activities, including outdoor sports, planting in the garden, designing stained-glass windows and carving limestone (particularly appropriate since the program is housed at the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine’s campus). Specialty sessions let kids in first grade and up choose an art or sports focus, while kids in third grade and up have the added choice of performing arts. See website for program details. Ages 5 to 13.
Art Farm in the City
The camp's major draw is its indoor petting zoo, where little ones learn how to take care of live animals including birds, bunnies and reptiles. The program also offers lessons from Super Soccer Stars, swim instruction and classes in an array of arts. Art Farm in the City, 419 E 91st St between First and York Aves (212-410-3117, theartfarms.org). Camp runs June 25–Aug 17; days and hours per session vary. One-week session $375–$625. Ages 3 to 7.
Blue Dolphin Summer Camp: Trailblazers
Participants dabble in activities like soccer, basketball, jewelry making and nature walks at the Queens camp. Special events, such as a talent show, and optional field trips to Dorney Park and Six Flags are on the agenda too. 69-26 Cooper Ave at 69th Pl, Glendale, Queens (718-847-6470, bluedolphin
summercamp.com). Camp runs June 27–Aug 19, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm. $230 a week until June 1, $245 thereafter, with a two-week registration minimum. Round-trip transportation $50. Ages 6 to 11.
British International School
Kids attending camp at this East Side center typically start the morning off with songs and a swimming session, then dive into art and science projects. The afternoon brings the likes of team activities and water play. Occasionally campers venture off campus to destinations such as the Children’s Museum of Manhattan or a local fire station. British International School, 20 Waterside Plaza at 23rd St (212-481-2700, bis-ny.org). Camp runs June 25–July 27, Mon–Fri 9am–3pm (full day), 9am–noon (half day). One-week session $650 (full day), $550 (half day). Ages 3 to 7.
Camp Henry
Tykes start the morning with breakfast before delving into a series of 60- and 90-minute pursuits, including crafts, sports and drama. Each week they'll take a trip, visiting bowling alleys, museums, amusement parks and other destinations in the tri-state area. Henry Street Settlement, 301 Henry St between Grand and Montgomery Sts (212-254-3100, ext 228; henrystreet.org). Camp runs July 2–Aug 17, Mon–Fri 8:30am–5:30pm. Seven-week session $1,300 through Mar 30, thereafter $1,600. Sibling discounts and financial aid available. Ages 4½ to 13.
Camp Léman
Karate, yoga, cooking, swimming and many more pastimes fill the days at this camp. When kids aren't engaged in sports or creative endeavors, they play on the rooftop playground or in nearby parks. Léman Manhattan Prep School, 41 Broad St between Beaver St and Exchange Pl (212-232-0266, lemanmanhattan.org). Camp runs June 18–July 27; Mon–Fri 8:30am–3:30pm (ages 4 to 8), 8:30am–1pm (age 3). Six-week session $4,150 (full day) or $3,400 (half day); shorter sessions are available. Ages 3 to 8.
Downtown Day Camp
The Downtown Community Center’s impressive facilities include a brand-new 75-foot pool, dance studio, gym and theater; campers can look forward to lessons with the Story Pirates, sports instruction and music classes. Another perk: Pier 25’s playground and mini-golf course are nearby. •Junior Division (ages 5 to 8): Downtown Community Center, 120 Warren St between Greenwich and West Sts (212-766-1104, downtowndaycamp.com). •Senior Division (ages 9 to 14): P.S./I.S. 89, 201 Warren St between Chambers and West Sts. Camp runs June 29–Aug 10, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm. Seven-week session $3,595, four-week session (June 29–July 20) $2,395, three-week session (July 23–Aug 10) $1,795, add-on week (Aug 13–17) $495. Ages 5 to 14.
Friends Seminary Creative Day
In the morning campers explore their individual interests by choosing from a selection of small-group activities, such as arts and crafts, drama and creative movement, sports and games, or swim instruction. Later in the day they participate in cooperative play with a larger group and occasionally embark on field trips. Friends Seminary, 222 E 16th St at Rutherford Pl (212-979-5035, friendsseminary.org). Camp runs June 18–Aug 3, Mon–Fri 9am–4:30pm. One-week session $720, one-day session $165. Ages 6 to 11.
Hewitt School Summer Clubhouse
The wide range of offerings at this camp give kids a chance to explore their many interests and discover new hobbies in the process. Kids choose from classes in sports, arts, chess and more. All campers receive swimming lessons. Hewitt McKelvey Building, 3 E 76th St between Fifth and Madison Aves (212-994-2596, summer.hewittschool.org). Camp runs June 18–29, July 30–Aug 17; Mon–Fri 9am–3pm (entering kindergarten), 9am–4pm (entering grades 1 to 4). One-week session $650. Ages 5 to 10.
Kim's Kids
Tykes hit up a new kiddie hot spot in and around NYC every day. They'll venture to parks and playgrounds, explore local museums and zoos, hike across the Brooklyn Bridge to check out Chinatown and spend one special day at Sesame Place (requires an additional fee). P.S. 321, 378 3rd St at Fifth Ave, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-768-6419, kimskidscamp.com). Camp runs July 2–Aug 10, Mon–Fri 9am–3pm. Six-week session $2,055, three three-day weeks $795; other options are available. Ages 4½ to 11.
Kings Bay Y at Windsor Terrace
Kids fill their days with age-appropriate workshops in nature, science, sports and cooking, taking advantage of nearby Prospect Park in the process. Most children swim four times a week, and tweens (ages 10 to 14) attend an overnight trip away at a different location. The oldest campers (ages 14 to 16) participate in weekly leadership training and service projects. At the end of each week all campers come together to demonstrate their newfound interests and talents in a campwide showcase. Kings Bay Y, 1224 Prospect Ave at Vanderbilt St, Windsor Terrace, Brooklyn (718-407-6377, ywindsorterrace.org). Camp runs June 28–Aug 31, Mon–Fri 8am–4:15pm. Full summer (June 28–Aug 17) $2,600 (ages 4 to 6), $2,650 (ages 7 to 9), $2,700 (ages 10 to 14), $500 (ages 14 to 16); four-week session (June 28–July 20 or July 23–Aug 17) $1,350 (ages 4 to 6), $1,375 (ages 7 to 9), $1,400 (10 to 14); one-week session $400 (ages 4 to 6), $450 (ages 7 to 9), $500 (ages 10 to 14). Ages 4 to 16.
LIU Brooklyn Children's Academy
The youngest campers (ages 3 to 6) focus on building their language skills through songs, games, and stories in either English or another language of their choice (Spanish, Mandarin or American Sign Language). Older participants (ages 7 to 12) select from classes in game development, robotics and basic science, as well as comics, music, fashion and other artsy topics (activities are subject to change). Additionally, kids swim and play sports. LIU Brooklyn Campus, 1 University Plaza between DeKalb and Flatbush Aves, Fort Greene, Brooklyn (718-488-1364, liu.edu/childrensacademy). Camp runs July 9–Aug 17; Mon–Fri 9am–4pm (ages 7 to 12), 9am–noon (ages 3 to 6). Two-week session $990 (full day) or $500 (half day). Ages 3 to 12.
Long Island City Kids Summer Camp
Queens kids are treated to a well-rounded experience with activities that span everything from music, arts and crafts, and storytelling to soccer and gymnastics. All campers receive swimming lessons from Physique Swimming, too. Long Island City Kids, 5-02 50th Ave at 5th St, Long Island City, Queens (718-392-5437, lickids.com). Camp runs June 28–Aug 31, Mon–Fri 9am–6pm or 9am–3pm. One week $520 (full day) or $410 (short day) before Apr 14; thereafter one week $550 (full day), $440 (short day). Campers receive a $10 discount per week when registering for more than one week. Ages 4 to 10.
McBurney Chelsea Camp
This year’s theme is I Love NY, which campers will investigate via twice-weekly trips to Ellis Island, the Bronx Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History and other noteworthy destinations within the five boroughs. On-site kids receive swimming lessons and participate in sports, arts and crafts, and reading and writing activities. They’ll also complete a community-service project. P.S. 41, 116 W 11th St between Sixth and Seventh Aves (212-912-2315, ymcanyc.org/mcburney). Camp runs July 2–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 9am–5pm. Two-week session $580 (ages 4 to 6), $550 (ages 7 to 12). Ages 4 to 12.
Mill Basin
The day goes by quickly here, thanks to a rotating list of activities, including the usual arts and crafts, dance and team sports, plus karate, gymnastics, magic, video games and baking. Mill Basin campers also swim daily, in either an outdoor or an indoor pool. The campus features a number of amenities that are sure to leave kids' (and parents') mouths agape: two computer rooms, two karaoke studios, two giant-screen theaters and a TV game-show studio. 5945 Strickland Ave between 56th Dr and E 57th Pl, Mill Basin, Brooklyn (718-251-6200, millbasindaycamp.com). Camp runs July 2–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4:30pm: Campers may attend sessions from four to eight weeks long. Price depends on camper's age and number of weeks. Bus transportation ($350 flat fee) provided to addresses in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island. Ages 3 to 14.
New Country Day Camp
Little ones won't have to go any farther than Staten Island to take advantage of this camp's scenic 75 acres, which include hiking trails, open fields and swimming pools. Younger kids (ages 4½ to 6) sample a little bit of all the program's offerings, while older campers (ages 7 and up) choose one of seven areas—ranging from performing arts and dance to team sports and martial arts—to specialize in each week. Henry Kaufmann Campgrounds, 1131 Manor Rd near Brielle Ave, Staten Island (646-395-4355, newcountrydaycamp.org). Camp runs June 28–Aug 22; Mon–Thu 9am–4pm, Fri 9am–3pm. Eight-week session $4,000, shorter sessions available at prorated prices. Transportation from Manhattan and Brooklyn included in tuition. Ages kindergarten to 13 years.
New York City Explorers Adventure Camp
During the week, tykes visit all five boroughs, stopping by notable institutions such as the Met, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and the Bronx Zoo, as well as exploring more offbeat destinations like 5 Pointz in Queens. New York City Explorers, •399 Atlantic Ave at Bond St, Boerum Hill, Brooklyn (718-797-3707, nycityexplorers.com). •186 Underhill Ave at Sterling Pl, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn (718-399-6923, nycityexplorers.com). Camp runs June 25–Au 29, Mon–Fri 8am–6pm. (There is complimentary after-camp 4–6pm.) One-week session $495. Ages 5 to 10.
NYC Kids Camp
Children spend their mornings outdoors and settle in for science and art exploration in the afternoon. Other daily adventures may take youngsters to the American Museum of Natural History, the New York Aquarium or to the Hudson River for fishing. NYC Kids Camp, 155 Bank St between Washington and West Sts (212-255-1685, nyckidscamps.com). Camp runs June 4–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 9am–3pm. One-week session $600; multiweek, sibling and early-bird discounts available. Ages 2 to 11.
Park Explorers’ Camp Explorers
Youngsters discover nature by climbing rocks, traversing meadows and checking out local streams and woodlands. First and second grade campers spend most of their time in Prospect Park, engaging in outdoor sports, games, and arts and crafts, but they also venture off-site once a week for activities like swimming, karate and gymnastics. Older campers (third and fourth grade) travel farther from base to such places as Dyker Beach Park and Manhattan Beach. 611 Eighth Ave between 6th and 7th Sts, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-788-3620, parkexplorers.com). Camp runs June 28–Aug 31, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm. Eight-week session $2,795, seven-week session $2,590, six-week session $2,280, five-week session $2,000, four-week session $1,720, three-week session $1,350, two-week session $920, one-week session $475. Ages 6 to 10.
Park Explorers’ Exploring Beyond Camp
On-the-go tweens traverse Brooklyn, visiting spots like the Red Hook Pool, the Brooklyn Gymnastics Center and Prospect Park, as well as state parks in New York and New Jersey for tubing, hiking and swimming. Overnight adventures are also on the calender. 611 Eighth Ave between 6th and 7th Sts, Park Slope, Brooklyn (718-788-3620, parkexplorers.com). Camp runs June 28–Aug 31, Mon–Fri 8:30am–4pm. Eight-week session $3,085, seven-week session $2,750, six-week session $2,440, five-week session $2,115, four-week session $1,790, three-week session $1,390, two-week session $1,045, one-week session $535. Ages 10 to 14.
Park Slope Day Camp
All five of this camp's Brooklyn locations offer an impressive lineup of outdoor activities (sailing, horseback riding, rock climbing), arts, sports and day trips. Excursions vary depending on the camper's age, but expect visits to Prospect Park and the beach as well as themed trips. Camp sites in Bay Ridge, Carroll Gardens, Park Slope and Windsor Terrace; see website for specific locations (718-788-7732, parkslopedaycamp.com). Camp runs July 2–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 8am–4pm. Eight-week session $2,850, three-week session $1,400; campers may attend anywhere from three to eight weeks; see website for additional prices. Ages 3.5 to 14.
Sensational Kids Summer Camp
Each week campers explore a different theme through arts and crafts, games, movement and water activities. This year’s themes include Super Sleuths, Bugs Life, Water World and Tomorrow Land. Kids also venture outside of Queens on weekly field trips to places like the Bronx Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art. •Our Lady of Hope, 61-21 71 St at Eliot Ave, Middle Village, Queens (718-386-1962, sensationalkidscamp.net). •The Mary Louis Academy, 176-21 Wexford Terr between Dalny Rd and Kingston Pl, Jamaica, Queens. Camp runs July 2–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 7am–6pm. One-week session $275 with a two-week minimum, plus a $75 registration fee per family. Ages 3 to 14.
Staten Island Academy Summer Day Camp
The 12-acre campus boasts a gymnasium, two swimming pools, tennis courts, science labs and an air-conditioned theater. Campers spend their days playing sports (think tennis, kickball and soccer), scaling the school’s new climbing wall, swimming, and partaking in arts, crafts and dance. Older kids (grades 5 to 8) travel off campus for field trips once a week. Staten Island Academy, 715 Todt Hill Rd between Four Corners Rd and Redmond Ave, Staten Island (718-303-7845, statenislandacademy.org/camp). Camp runs June 18–Aug 24, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm. Ages 3 to 14.
Summer Clubhouse “On Tour”
This all-girls program whisks campers to local hot spots. Participants may learn tennis and squash at Long Island City’s CityView Racquet Club, glide across the ice at City Pavilion, jam at the Willie Mae Rock Camp or learn what it’s like to be a Broadway star at Four Corners Creative. Hewitt McKelvey Building, 3 E 76th St between Fifth and Madison Aves (212-994-2596, summer.hewittschool.org). Camp runs June 11–15, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm. $750. Ages 6 to 10.
Summers at LREI Lower Camp
Three days a week, youngsters choose from creative classes like tumbling and textiles. On Wednesdays, campers celebrate a specific theme—like beach day—with costumes, games and campwide activities. Fridays are reserved for trips to kid-friendly destinations (think the New York Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and the Central Park Zoo). Little Red School House, 272 Sixth Ave at Bleecker St (212-477-5316, summers.lrei.org). Camp runs June 25–Aug 3, Mon–Fri 9am–4pm (ages 6 to 7); Mon–Thu 9am–1pm, Fri 9am–4pm (ages 3 to 5). Two-week session $1,240 (full day), $780 (half day). Ages 3½ to 7.
Summers at LREI Upper Camp
Though kids spend time in classes at this camp, the coursework is anything but run-of-the-mill, boasting electives in music and comedy, moviemaking, African dance, music videos, inventions and more. The fun continues with trips to a LAVA Acrobatics and Trapeze workshop, Rooftop Farms and Liberty Science Center, as well as weekly group activities, such as a game of capture the flag or a campwide disco. 40 Charlton Street between Sixth Ave and Varick St (212-477-5316, summers.lrei.org). Camp runs June 25–Aug 3, Mon–Fri 9am–4:15pm. Two-week session $1,240. Ages 8 to 13.
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