By Meghan Gearino

And a Happy Memorial Day Weekend to you all! If you’re packin’ up the car and road tripping somewhere upstate and/or sunshine-filled, perhaps you need a little entertainment for the little ones while you’re on the move. And for those of you who are staying borough-side, there is so much to do from Governors Island’s grand opening to Fleet Week fun at The Intrepid. (Just be sure to slather on the SPF no matter where the three-dayer takes you!)

FRIDAY-MONDAY 

The popular exhibitThe Butterfly Conservatory: Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter flutters away from the American Museum of Natural History this weekend. View over 500 stunning creatures in tropic-like heat, along with other exotic foliage.

The famed Fleet Week continues at The Intrepid with a jam-packed schedule of ship tours, movies on the Flight Deck, fireworks, tug-of-war and musical performances. 

Wizards aged six and up should head to The Little Shubert Theatre for a preview of Potted Potter—a two-man, 70-minute show covering all seven Harry Potter books! P.S. They’re also appearing at The Intrepid on Friday at 2pm for a special Fleet Week performance. 

SATURDAY-MONDAY

Merry-go-round this Memorial Day. Two historic carousels reopen just in time for the holiday weekend. Make your way to Queens’ Forest Park and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to take a spin on either (or both!) of these classic rides. 

SATURDAY-SUNDAY

GOVERNORS ISLAND OPENS:It’s that time of year again (thank goodness)! And if you’re keeping it local this Memorial Day, there’s plenty to do just a short ferry ride over. Saturday features the Botanical Arts & Stop Motion Explosion promising art projects with both natural materials and clay at The Free Arts Island Outpost. While you’re there, be sure and stop by the Governors Island Alliance Family Festival in Nolan Park for face painting, arts & crafts, free bike helmet fittings and performances by Astrograss and The Maybelles. Last but not least, stop by the two-day 5 Boro PicNYC where kids receive free admission for great eats (like shaved ice), drinks and music for the entire family.