Top 3 Things to Do on Staten Island This Weekend (July 17–19, 2026)

Looking for Something Fun to Do on Staten Island This Weekend?

If you're staying close to home this weekend, you're in luck. Staten Island is packed with family activities, outdoor experiences, and unique local events that make it easy to enjoy your weekend without crossing a bridge.

Whether you're planning a family outing, looking for a relaxing date idea, or searching for something different to do Saturday evening, we've rounded up three of the best events happening across the borough.

Here are our top picks for Friday, July 17 through Sunday, July 19, 2026.

1. Free Admission Day & Pre-K Resource Fair at Staten Island Children's Museum

Saturday, July 18, 2026

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

1000 Richmond Terrace, Building M, Staten Island, NY

Looking for a completely family-friendly day that won't stretch your budget?

The Staten Island Children's Museum is hosting its Free Admission Day, allowing families to enjoy the museum at no cost (with advance registration). During the morning, parents can also meet local organizations at the Early Childhood Resource Fair, offering information, educational resources, giveaways, and community support.

The museum itself features dozens of interactive exhibits where children learn through creativity, science, art, and hands-on exploration.

Highlights include:

• Free museum admission

• Early Childhood Resource Fair

• Interactive exhibits

• Arts and crafts

• STEM learning

• Outdoor play spaces

• Community organizations

This event is especially perfect for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and elementary-age children looking to stay active while learning something new. The museum recommends preregistration due to expected attendance. (Staten Island Children's Museum)

Why Families Love the Staten Island Children's Museum

Unlike larger museums that can feel overwhelming, Staten Island Children's Museum is designed specifically around exploration through play.

Kids are encouraged to touch, build, create, experiment, and imagine. Parents appreciate that nearly every exhibit is interactive, making it easier to keep young children engaged for hours.

Because the museum sits inside Snug Harbor, families can also enjoy walking trails, gardens, and open green space after their visit.

2. Forest Bathing at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

Saturday, July 18, 2026

9:30 AM

1000 Richmond Terrace

If your ideal weekend involves slowing down rather than speeding up, this experience may be exactly what you're looking for.

Forest Bathing isn't exercise.

It isn't hiking.

It isn't meditation.

Instead, it's a guided practice of intentionally slowing down and immersing yourself in nature using all five senses.

Participants walk slowly through Snug Harbor's beautiful gardens while a guide encourages mindfulness, observation, and relaxation.

Many participants report:

• Lower stress

• Better focus

• Improved mood

• Reduced anxiety

• Greater appreciation for nature

For couples, it makes an excellent daytime date.

For individuals, it's one of the most peaceful experiences available anywhere in New York City.

Snug Harbor itself is one of Staten Island's hidden treasures, featuring botanical gardens, historic architecture, sculptures, museums, and quiet walking paths that feel worlds away from city life.

Why Snug Harbor Is One of Staten Island's Best Attractions

Even if you're not attending Forest Bathing, Snug Harbor deserves a visit.

The grounds include:

• Botanical Gardens

• Historic buildings

• Walking trails

• Public art

• Seasonal exhibits

• Cultural events

• Photography opportunities

Many visitors spend an entire afternoon exploring the property before grabbing lunch nearby.

3. Moth Night 2026 at Staten Island Museum

Saturday, July 18, 2026

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

1000 Richmond Terrace, Building A

Looking for something you've probably never done before?

Moth Night combines science, nature, and family fun into one memorable evening.

Held during National Moth Week, this event invites visitors to experience nature after dark through educational activities and interactive exhibits.

Families can enjoy:

• Lantern parade

• Face painting

• Moth costumes

• Black light experiences

• Live moth viewing

• Nature walks

• Science demonstrations

• Expert insect educators

Children are encouraged to bring flashlights and experience insects in a completely different environment than they would during the day.

It's educational without feeling like school, making it one of the most unique family activities available this weekend. Registration is recommended, and admission is modestly priced. (Staten Island Museum)

Sample Weekend Itinerary

If you're looking to make an entire Saturday out of it, here's one easy schedule:

9:30 AM
Start your morning with Forest Bathing at Snug Harbor.

11:30 AM
Walk the gardens and enjoy lunch nearby.

1:00 PM
Visit the Children's Museum during Free Admission Day.

5:00 PM
Head home for dinner.

8:00 PM
Return for Moth Night at the Staten Island Museum.

Because all three activities are located within the Snug Harbor campus, you won't spend your day driving from one end of Staten Island to the other.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best things to do on Staten Island this weekend?

This weekend's top events include the Free Admission Day at the Staten Island Children's Museum, Forest Bathing at Snug Harbor, and Moth Night at the Staten Island Museum. (Staten Island Children's Museum)

Are there free family events on Staten Island this weekend?

Yes. The Staten Island Children's Museum is offering free admission on Saturday, July 18, with preregistration. (Staten Island Children's Museum)

Is Snug Harbor worth visiting?

Absolutely. Snug Harbor offers botanical gardens, museums, walking trails, cultural attractions, and seasonal programming throughout the year.

What should I bring to Moth Night?

Bring a flashlight, wear comfortable walking shoes, and consider registering ahead of time since attendance is expected to be high. (Staten Island Museum)

Can I visit all three events in one day?

Yes. Since all three are located at Snug Harbor, it's possible to enjoy Forest Bathing in the morning, the Children's Museum during the afternoon, and Moth Night in the evening.

Make the Most of Your Staten Island Weekend

One of the best parts of living on Staten Island is discovering how much there is to do close to home. From educational family activities and relaxing outdoor experiences to unforgettable nighttime adventures, this weekend offers something for every age and interest.

Supporting local museums, parks, and cultural organizations also helps strengthen the community while creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Have a wonderful weekend, enjoy everything Staten Island has to offer, and don't forget to explore somewhere new.