Looking for an short trip for outdoor activities with the children just outside the main island of Manhattan? Drive or catch the shuttle bus to Randall's Island Golf Center where you can play a round of minigolf, practice your swing at the driving range or hit some balls in the batting cages. You can even host a birthday party here. The shuttle bus leaves regularly from the upper east side of Manhattan along Third Avenue between 72 Street and 96 Street. From there it is a very quick trip to Randall's island. As a younger child, my son enjoyed the expansive minigolf course, which unlike some suburban courses, is not filled with broken down painted gizmos, but instead is laid out in a more naturalistic setting. Although the course could be perhaps enjoyed by pre-schoolers, I would recommend this one for ages 5 though teens.

For more information see http://www.randallsislandgolfcenter.com/