Alternative Sports and Non-Competitive Physical Activities in Nassau County, Long Island

By NYMetroParents Staff October 1, 2010

If you have a non-athletic child, you can still find ways to bond with him or her through non-competitive physical activities. We've compiled a guide to parks, rinks, and other sports centers in Nassau County, Long Island, that offer healthy and fun activities - like hiking, kayaking, and table tennis - for all ages.

Get off the Couch! Go...

...GAMING

Active Kidz Long Island

East Hills; (516) 621-6600; www.activekidzlongisland.com

With a 3-level indoor Adventure Maze, rock-climbing, indoor gym, and laser tag (for birthday parties only), plus a snack bar for refueling, your kids will stay...well, active!

Once Upon a Treetop

Plainview; (516) 349-1140; www.onceuponatreetop.com

Kids engage in interactive play, take music and movement classes, and of course, climb through the facility's tree house play unit.

New York Table Tennis Club

Flushing; (718) 359-3272; www.nyttc.com

Table tennis facilities for players of all ages and skill sets. Lessons and kids' birthday parties also available.

...HIKING

Hempstead Lake State Park

West Hempstead; (516) 766-1029; www.nysparks.state.ny.us

In addition to its popular hiking area (three miles of trail surrounding Hempstead Lake), the park offers fishing ponds, tennis courts, bridle trails, playgrounds, and a historic carousel.

...KAYAKING

Empire Kayaks

Island Park; (516) 889-8300; www.empirekayaks.com

Families of all experience levels may rent kayaks, with some basic instruction included. Single kayak rental, $15/hour; double kayaks, $25/hour.

Back to our complete Alternative Sports Guide for the NY Metro Area

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