New York City—a vibrant collection of cultures, sights, and sounds—is not just a playground for adults but a wonderland for children as well. Planning a trip to the Big Apple with kids might seem like an adventure in itself, but with the right guidance, it can become an unforgettable family vacation like it did for us. This essential guide will equip you with everything you need to know to make your NYC trip with kids a resounding success.
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Family-Friendly Attractions
Museums That Inspire and Educate
- American Museum of Natural History: Let your children explore the mysteries of the universe in the Hayden Planetarium, stand in awe beneath towering dinosaur skeletons, and engage with interactive exhibits that make science come alive.
- Children’s Museum of Manhattan: A favorite for little ones, this museum offers hands-on exhibits that promote learning through play, covering topics from art and science to culture and history.
- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Docked on the Hudson River, this aircraft carrier turned museum allows kids to explore historic aircraft, the Space Shuttle Enterprise, and even a submarine.
Iconic Parks and Playgrounds
- Central Park: The city’s green heart offers endless entertainment—from the Central Park Zoo and the carousel to boating on the lake and numerous playgrounds scattered throughout its expanse.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park/Empire Fulton Ferry: With panoramic views of Manhattan, these waterfront parks feature playgrounds, picnic areas, a carousel and even a pop-up pool during the summer months.
- The High Line: An elevated park built on a historic freight rail line, offering gardens, art installations, and unique perspectives of the city streets below.
Zoos and Aquariums
- Bronx Zoo: One of the largest zoos in the United States, it houses over 700 species. Highlights include the Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and the Children’s Zoo.
- Central Park Zoo: A more compact zoo that’s perfect for younger children, featuring sea lions, penguins, and a petting zoo in the Tisch Children’s Zoo.
- New York Aquarium: Located in Coney Island, it’s home to marine life exhibits including “Ocean Wonders: Sharks!” and daily sea lion shows.
Kid-Friendly Activities
Live Performances and Shows
- Broadway Matinees: Shows like The Lion King and Aladdin thrill audiences of all ages with their stunning visuals and memorable music.
- Disney on Broadway Tour: A behind-the-scenes look at how Disney musicals are brought to life on stage, including costumes and props.
- Puppet Shows at the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre: Nestled in Central Park, this charming venue offers classic fairy tales performed by marionettes.
Engaging Tours
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry ride to these iconic landmarks. The journey itself is exciting for kids, and older children can appreciate the historical significance.
- Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Choose from various boat tours that offer spectacular views of the skyline, bridges, and famous landmarks.
- Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours: An easy way to cover ground without tiring out little feet, with the flexibility to explore areas of interest at your own pace.
Accommodation Recommendations
Family-Friendly Hotels
- TRYP Wyndham Times Square: Located in the heart of Manhattan, TRYP By Wyndham combines modern style with urban comfort, making it ideal for families looking for an affordable New York City experience. We enjoyed our stay, got a great deal and was close to many major attractions.
- Residence Inn New York Manhattan/Times Square: Offers spacious suites with kitchenettes, complimentary breakfast, and is centrally located.
- Loews Regency New York Hotel: Provides family amenities like welcome gifts for kids, child-proofing kits, and even babysitting services.
- Hotel Beacon: Located on the Upper West Side, it offers rooms with kitchenettes and is close to Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History.
Best Neighborhoods to Stay In
- Upper West Side: A residential area with a family-friendly atmosphere, close to parks and museums.
- Midtown East: Central location with easy access to major attractions, dining, and public transportation.
- Battery Park City: A quieter area with parks and playgrounds, offering stunning views of the Hudson River and close proximity to the Statue of Liberty ferry.
Dining Options
Restaurants That Welcome Kids
- 7th Street Burgers and Fries: A simple menu with absolutely amazing food. Classic smash burger, fries topped off with an ice cold bottle of Coke!
- Ellen’s Stardust Diner: Experience classic diner fare served by singing waitstaff—Broadway hopefuls who entertain while you eat.
- Serendipity 3: Famous for its extravagant desserts like the Frozen Hot Chocolate, it’s a sweet treat for the entire family.
- John’s Pizzeria: Located in a former church, this pizza place is spacious and lively, serving up delicious New York-style pizza.
Food Halls and Markets
- Chelsea Market: A culinary destination where you can sample everything from artisanal chocolates to fresh tacos, ensuring there’s something for every palate.
- Time Out Market New York: Situated in DUMBO, Brooklyn, it offers a variety of food vendors and a rooftop with breathtaking views.
- Smorgasburg: An open-air food market held on weekends during the warmer months, featuring a diverse range of cuisines.
Travel Tips
Navigating the City with Kids
- Public Transportation: The subway is efficient but can be challenging with strollers. Look for stations with elevator access. Buses are stroller-friendly and offer a street-level view of the city.
- Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Convenient for shorter distances or when the kids are tired. Note that car seats are not always available, so you may need to bring your own.
- Walking: Often the best way to experience the city. Make sure everyone wears comfortable shoes and take frequent breaks.
Safety and Comfort
- Prepare for Crowds: Hold hands in busy areas and consider using a child harness if you have a very young child.
- Weather Preparedness: NYC weather can be unpredictable. Carry umbrellas, sunscreen, and dress in layers.
- Stay Hydrated and Snack-Ready: Keep water and snacks on hand to prevent hunger-induced meltdowns.
Itinerary Planning
DAY ONE
The Met – offers a rich cultural experience with its vast collection of exhibits.Â
Central Park – provides a peaceful retreat with activities like rowboat rentals, carriage rides, and scenic paths. The park is ideal for families and relaxation.Â
5th Avenue – where luxury stores like Louis Vuitton and more budget-friendly options await.Â
Summit One Vanderbilt – provides an immersive, exciting viewing experience that’s more than just an observation deck. This was our favorite spot on our visit.
DAY TWO
American Museum of Natural History – A highlight, particularly its dinosaur exhibit. You can spend hours exploring its detailed collections, including the insect and Big Bang exhibits.Â
Brooklyn – the iconic view of the Manhattan Bridge from Washington Street is a must-see for photographers.Â
Brooklyn Bridge Park and Empire Fulton Ferry – relax, enjoy the play areas the views and ride Jane’s CarouselÂ
Time Out Market – home to some of NYC’s best foodÂ
Brooklyn Bridge – take a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge and enjoy amazing views of Manhattan and a unique perspective of the city
DAY THREE
Statue of Liberty – take a ferry ride to Liberty Island where you can tour the island, the statue and admire views of Manhattan.Â
The World Trade Center and Oculus – provide a blend of historical reflection and architectural beauty.Â
High Line – a unique green pathway through Manhattan’s bustling west side, offering a peaceful and scenic conclusion to the day.
For a detailed itinerary click here.
Time Management Tips
- Start Early: Attractions are less crowded in the morning.
- Avoid Overpacking the Day: Schedule downtime to rest and recharge.
- Advance Reservations: Book tickets online to save time and guarantee entry.
Budget-Friendly Options
Savings on Attractions
- CityPASS: Provides discounted admission to top attractions and allows you to skip some ticket lines.
- Free Museum Days: Many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish admission at certain times.
- NYC Ferry: An affordable way to travel between boroughs while enjoying scenic views.
Cost-Free Activities
- Staten Island Ferry: A free ferry ride that passes by the Statue of Liberty and offers great photo opportunities.
- Public Parks and Playgrounds: Unlimited fun at places like Bryant Park, Washington Square Park, and Pier 25 Playground.
- Grand Central Terminal: Explore this architectural marvel and look for the Whispering Gallery.
Logistical Information
Essential Facilities
- Restrooms: Department stores, hotels, and large bookstores like Barnes & Noble often have clean facilities.
- Changing Stations: Found in most museums and family-oriented attractions.
- Nursing Rooms: Locations like the Nordstrom flagship store and BuyBuy Baby offer comfortable spaces.
Accessibility Considerations
- Stroller-Friendly Routes: Plan your paths using apps or maps that highlight elevator-accessible subway stations.
- Special Needs Accommodations: Many venues offer services for children with sensory sensitivities, including sensory-friendly showtimes and quiet areas.
Insider Tips
Local Secrets
- Roosevelt Island Tramway: Accessible with a MetroCard swipe, this aerial tram offers unique views of the city and is an adventure in itself.
- Gulliver’s Gate: A lesser-known attraction featuring a miniature world that’s fascinating for both kids and adults.
- Waterfront Playgrounds: The Pier 6 Playgrounds in Brooklyn Bridge Park offer themed play areas and water features.
Timing Is Everything
- Avoid Peak Hours: Visit popular sites during weekdays or early in the day to minimize crowds.
- Seasonal Perks: Take advantage of seasonal activities like ice skating in winter or outdoor movies in summer.
Cultural Experiences
Enriching Activities
- Storytime at The New York Public Library: Many branches offer free storytelling sessions and activities for children.
- Workshops at The Metropolitan Museum of Art: Family programs include art-making activities and guided tours designed for young audiences.
- Cultural Festivals: Check the city’s event calendar for family-friendly festivals celebrating different cultures, like the Lunar New Year Parade.
Enjoy New York City With Your Kids
Our family loves New York City every time we visit. We find that it’s a journey filled with discovery, learning, and joy. By embracing the city’s endless possibilities and planning thoughtfully, you can create a family trip that will be cherished for years to come. Remember to balance sightseeing with relaxation, keep your itinerary flexible, and most importantly, savor the shared experiences with your children in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.