Hitting The Target: Archery For Kids In Brooklyn
Archery has been gaining in popularity for the last few years, but this centuries-old sport is more than just a passing trend. There’s a lot kids can learn from picking up a bow and arrow, like concentration, hand-eye coordination, and some serious responsibility.
If your kids like to imagine they are Katniss and Hawkeye, then check out these Brooklyn archery ranges where they can learn to aim and shoot an arrow like a pro.
Hidden Gems Archery
576 3rd Avenue, Gowanus
During the school year, Hidden Gems Archery hosts 12 weeks of lessons for kids for $200, as well as a weekly summer session when school is out. Before signing your kids up for lessons, they can try out the range with an introductory lesson for $55. Recommended for kids ages 7 and up, the range can also be rented out for birthday parties and special events.
Gotham Archery
480 Baltic St, Cobble Hill
Gotham Archery offers lessons and practice for everyone 10 years and older. To visit the range, all archers have to first take an introductory class that’s $35 and includes a one-hour lesson and equipment rental. After the introductory class, archers can visit the range to practice for $16/hour lane rental and $11/day equipment rental. Gotham Archery is also host to the USA Archery Junior Olympic Archery Development program, which is designed to help participants 10-18 years old develop advanced archery skills.
Floyd Bennett Archery Range
Aviation Rd, Marine Park
The 10-target outdoor range at Floyd Bennett Field is great for practicing on — just note there is no rental gear available, so you’ll have to bring your own. The range is also about a mile and a half from the main entrance — a bit of a trek if you’re carrying all your gear. Call ahead before heading out to the park to confirm the range is available.
Norman & Jules
158 7th Avenue, Park Slope
If you’re excited to introduce your little one to archery, but she’s too young to start lessons, then head to Park Slope toy shop Norman & Jules for a bow and arrow set sold exclusively at the store. Created by Brooklyn-based toy designers, Sketch + John, this beautiful set is constructed of reclaimed wood and wool. The perfect toy for imaginative play, the bow and arrow set will keep little hands busy until they’re big enough for the real deal.
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