Recess!! The Experience
📍 Staten Island, NY
Immersive kinetic venue at Empire Outlets with 20-plus motion-activated neon installations, glow-in-the-dark spaces, and giant interactive spheres. Cafe on-site, birthday packages available, autism-friendly design throughout.
We had such a great time at Recess last weekend! What a great experience. The place was clean, inviting and loads of fun. You can tell that a lot of time and effort has been put into this experience. The staff was warm and inviting as soon as we arrived. They took their time explaining to us what to expect (without giving anything away). Everybody checked in with us during our time there. We understand that they will be staying for some time and making updates every so often. They even offer birthday party packages. We will be going back again for sure!
🏆 Family Action Verdict
A strong pick for families with kids aged 3 and up who engage well with light, music, and movement. The autism-friendly design makes it one of the few immersive venues genuinely accessible for sensory-sensitive children. Smaller crowds significantly improve the sensory experience — visiting on weekday afternoons is worth planning around.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →81 Google reviews
sarah kabalkin
5 months ago
“We had such a great time at Recess last weekend! What a great experience. The place was clean, inviting and loads of fun. You can tell that a lot of time and effort has been put into this experience. The staff was warm and inviting as soon as we arrived. They took their time explaining to us what to expect (without giving anything away). Everybody checked in with us during our time there. We understand that they will be staying for some time and making updates every so often. They even offer birthday party packages. We will be going back again for sure!”
slava ryz
a month ago
“Such a fun experience for both kids and adults. There were so many games and activities to keep the kids entertained, and the glow-in-the-dark space was such a cool touch. The whole place is super cute and well set up. The kids had an absolute blast — and honestly, the adults had just as much fun. Definitely worth the visit. We can’t wait to go back!”
Selena Cabrera
a month ago
“Now this is what the Outlets needs! More experiences like this that can keep their whole family entertained. Such a lovely visual place to enjoy some fun together. I really like the neon colors & activities they have here. My kids & I were able to kill an hour of fun.”
Elizabeth Monaghan
3 months ago
“This is the coolest place! A very fun time loved all the neon lights and love that they do birthday parties as well! And it is very sensory friendly for kids and adults with autism. The sensory experience was exceptional with all the lights and the music!”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Recess!! The Experience occupies the second level of Empire Outlets near the Staten Island Ferry. Installations respond to guest movement and permanently alter the environment through participation. Sessions run approximately one hour. Staff walk guests through the experience on arrival without spoiling the surprises. Birthday party packages are available alongside general admission.
