Now that it’s August, school looms on the horizon. Which is, of course, wholly unwelcome if you’re a kid (parents: it’s okay to have that barely suppressed look of glee when the kids aren’t around), but maybe, just maybe, the teensiest bit exciting as well. Families? You've still got a month to cram in some summer fun. So head to an amusement park, a formal garden, or an obstacle park in the sky. There’s no shortage of summer fun in New York.

Victorian Gardens

There’s truthfully not much that’s Victorian about this amusement park that takes over Wollman Rink every summer, but it’s still a somewhat unexpected pleasure to come upon in the city. Attractions are mainly geared to kids ages 2-12, and plenty exist for each age group. There’s Big Foot (which can accommodate adults), and includes lots of small trucks with large wheels; the Happy Swing (pretty much what it sounds like, but can accommodate many swingers at once), and various small roller coasters and things that whir and spin. Entertainers also make appearances at various times. The Victorian Gardens Amuseument Park runs through September 10. victoriangardensnyc.com

Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventures

Sure, you can visit the new Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventures at other times of the year, but why not take advantage of great weather, the opportunity to be outside, and that “it’s summer feeling” and go now? A new tree-high obstacle course features a variety of ways to test your agility and strength, from the 400-foot-long zip line to an aerial adventure park that features seven different courses, from beginner to expert. Swing, navigate and even skateboard; it’ll make a great story to tell in the fall. Bronx Zoo, 2300 Southern Boulevard, Bronx, Bronxzootreetop.com

Governors Island

You’re always saying sometime before the summer ends, you want to get out of the city and explore a little. Well, it’s sometime. Check out the 172-acres of Governors Island, accessible by ferry from Manhattan and Brooklyn. It’s got play fountains, ball fields, biking, a fort to explore, a compost learning center, and even 50 red hammocks nestled in Hammock Grove. You can also find performances and other live events. Don’t forget the Jazz Age Lawn party the weekend of August 26 and 27—period costumes, music, and old-timey cocktails for the adults. Open to the public through October 31. govisland.com

The Conservatory Garden

The Conservatory Garden is the only formal garden in Central Park, and it’s at its best in warm weather. With six acres of seasonal plants, it showcases three different types of European gardens: French (tulips in the spring), Italian (crabapple, yew trees, plus a large fountain) and English (lilacs, magnolias). Kids may enjoy the peace and quiet (runners and bikers aren’t allowed), not to mention the gorgeous blooms. Conservatory Garden, 5th Avenue and 105th Street, centralparknyc.org

Chihuly at the New York Botanical Garden

Dale Chihuly’s site-specific glass structures are dazzling in their size and beauty. More than 20 are displayed across the Garden; they’re designed to be viewed both day and night. (In “Chihuly Nights,” the sculptures are dazzlingly illuminated.) A series of special events designed around the exhibition are also available, from films to music to workshops. You can also see Chihuly’s earlier works on paper, and of course, enjoy the rest of what the Garden has to offer. Runs through Oct 29. New York Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Boulevard, nybg.org

Eloise at the New-York Historical Society 

It's still a rawther good time to scamper over to the New-York Historical Society to see the “Eloise” exhibit, based, of course, on the iconic 6-year-old heroine who lived in the Plaza Hotel. (The fabulous picture books, written by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight, were first published in the 1950s.) More than 75 objects are on view, from original manuscript pages to vintage dolls. Don’t miss the portrait that was once stolen from the Plaza. Family activities throughout its run complement the exhibit. Long live Weenie and Skiperdee! Runs through Oct. 9. New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park West, nyhistory.org