Welcome to New York City! It’s a big, busy place with tall buildings and lots of people. But did you know that it’s also a great city for kids? There are so many fun things to do here that you’ll never get bored.
In this guide, we’ll show you all the cool stuff you can do with your kids in New York. From famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building to awesome parks like Central Park, there’s something for everyone.
You can explore museums full of interesting things, visit neighborhoods that are perfect for families, and even enjoy delicious food at kid-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, you’re sure to have a blast in New York City with your family.
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Exploring Iconic Landmarks
New York City is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world.
- Statue of Liberty: Standing proudly on Liberty Island, the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy. Embark on a ferry ride to the island and marvel at this colossal statue up close. Kids can learn about its history at the museum and even ascend to the crown for a breathtaking view of the city skyline and harbor.
- Empire State Building: As one of the tallest buildings in New York, the Empire State Building provides awe-inspiring vistas from its observation deck. Children will be mesmerized by the panoramic views of the city’s skyscrapers, bridges, and landmarks, offering a bird’s-eye perspective of the bustling metropolis below.
- Central Park: Spanning over 840 acres, Central Park is a verdant oasis amidst the urban jungle. Rent bicycles to explore its winding paths, row a boat on the tranquil lake, or enjoy a leisurely picnic on the sprawling lawns. With playgrounds, carousel rides, and open fields for frolicking, Central Park is a haven of outdoor fun for kids of all ages.
Museums and Cultural Attractions
New York City is home to some of the most exciting museums and cultural attractions for families.
American Museum of Natural History
Explore the wonders of our planet and beyond! Kids can come face-to-face with dinosaur fossils, touch real meteorites, and journey through space in the planetarium. There are interactive exhibits where they can dig for fossils and learn about animals from all over the world. Don’t miss the Butterfly Conservatory, where colorful butterflies flutter freely around lush greenery, offering a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Get ready for an art adventure! At the Met, families can discover ancient artifacts, famous paintings, and sculptures from different cultures and periods. Kids can participate in family-friendly tours, art-making workshops, and scavenger hunts designed just for them. Be sure to explore the rooftop garden, offering stunning views of Central Park and the city skyline, while enjoying contemporary art installations in a unique outdoor setting.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
Let imaginations run wild! This museum is packed with hands-on exhibits where kids can role-play in a grocery store, create art in a studio, and even climb aboard a fire truck. There are special programs for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children, making it a perfect destination for the whole family. Check out the “Eat Sleep Play” exhibit, where children can explore the science of sleep, nutrition, and physical activity through interactive displays and activities.
Family-Friendly Neighborhoods
When exploring New York City with kids, it’s essential to find neighborhoods that offer a welcoming and safe environment for families to enjoy.
Brooklyn Heights
Nestled along the Brooklyn waterfront, Brooklyn Heights offers a charming blend of historic brownstones, tree-lined streets, and scenic parks. Families can stroll along the picturesque Brooklyn Heights Promenade, with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty. The neighborhood is home to playgrounds, community gardens, and family-friendly eateries, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Upper West Side
Known for its cultural institutions, vibrant street life, and spacious parks, the Upper West Side is a haven for families seeking a diverse array of activities. Central Park provides endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, from picnics and playgrounds to boating on the lake. Families can also explore the kid-friendly exhibits at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan or catch a family-friendly performance at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts.
Battery Park City
Situated on the southern tip of Manhattan, Battery Park City offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Families can enjoy waterfront parks with playgrounds, bike paths, and scenic promenades along the Hudson River. The neighborhood is also home to the immersive SeaGlass Carousel and the interactive Rockefeller Park Playground, providing hours of entertainment for children of all ages.
Outdoor Adventures
New York City is known for its skyscrapers and bustling streets, it also offers numerous outdoor adventures for families to enjoy.
- Prospect Park: Located in Brooklyn, Prospect Park is a sprawling oasis of greenery and recreational opportunities. Families can explore miles of scenic trails, rent bikes or paddleboats, and picnic in the meadows. The park also features playgrounds, a zoo, and the LeFrak Center at Lakeside, offering ice skating in the winter and roller skating in the summer.
- Hudson River Park: Stretching along the west side of Manhattan, Hudson River Park offers stunning waterfront views and a variety of outdoor activities. Families can stroll along the Hudson River Greenway, play at the Chelsea Waterside Park, or ride bikes along the dedicated bike paths. The park also hosts seasonal events, including outdoor concerts and movie screenings.
- Bronx Zoo: As one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo is a must-visit destination for families. Kids can marvel at a diverse array of animals from around the globe, including lions, tigers, and gorillas. The zoo also offers special exhibits, animal feedings, and educational programs to engage visitors of all ages.
- Governors Island: Just a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn, Governors Island offers a unique outdoor experience for families. With car-free streets and expansive green spaces, the island is perfect for biking, picnicking, and exploring historic sites. Families can also enjoy mini-golf, playgrounds, and art installations scattered throughout the island.
Culinary Delights for Kids
New York City is a melting pot of culinary delights, offering a diverse array of food options that cater to every palate, including those of young foodies.
- Specialty Bakeries and Dessert Shops: Indulge in sweet treats from iconic bakeries and dessert shops scattered throughout the city. From classic New York-style bagels and pastries to gourmet cupcakes and artisanal ice cream, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Don’t miss the chance to try famous treats like cronuts, rainbow bagels, and cookie dough cones.
- Family-Friendly Restaurants: Explore family-friendly eateries that offer kid-friendly menus and welcoming atmospheres. Many restaurants in New York City cater to families with children, offering diverse cuisines and accommodating dietary preferences. From casual diners and pizza joints to upscale restaurants with children’s menus, families can enjoy delicious meals together in a relaxed setting.
- Food Markets and Festivals: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culinary scene of New York City by visiting food markets and festivals showcasing a variety of cuisines from around the world. Kids can sample international dishes, participate in cooking demonstrations, and enjoy live entertainment. Don’t miss popular food markets like Smorgasburg and Chelsea Market, where you can taste a wide range of gourmet delights in one location.
- Cooking Classes and Workshops: Encourage your little chefs to explore their culinary creativity by enrolling them in cooking classes and workshops tailored for kids. Many culinary schools and cooking studios in New York City offer hands-on classes where children can learn basic cooking techniques, experiment with ingredients, and prepare delicious dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs.
Educational and Interactive Experiences
New York City is not only a hub of entertainment and culture but also a treasure trove of educational and interactive experiences for children.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Step aboard the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier and explore its fascinating exhibits on maritime history, aviation, and space exploration. Kids can climb into cockpits, touch real aircraft, and even see the space shuttle Enterprise up close. Interactive displays and immersive experiences make learning about science and history exciting and memorable.
New York Hall of Science
Spark curiosity and creativity at the New York Hall of Science, a hands-on science museum dedicated to inspiring future scientists and innovators. Children can engage in interactive exhibits, experiments, and workshops covering topics such as physics, biology, and engineering. From building structures with giant foam blocks to creating digital art installations, there’s something for every budding scientist to enjoy.
Liberty Science Center (New Jersey)
Just a short trip from Manhattan, the Liberty Science Center offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and activities that ignite curiosity and exploration. Kids can journey through a tornado simulator, explore the depths of the ocean in a virtual submarine, and even walk through a maze of mirrors. With engaging exhibits on topics like astronomy, robotics, and sustainability, the center inspires young minds to think critically and creatively about the world around them.
Children’s Workshops and Classes
Take advantage of the diverse array of educational workshops and classes offered throughout the city. From art studios and coding camps to nature hikes and cooking classes, there’s no shortage of opportunities for children to learn and grow in areas that interest them. These hands-on experiences foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
Entertainment and Shows
New York City is a bustling hub of entertainment, offering an array of shows and performances suitable for families to enjoy together. Broadway shows are a highlight, featuring productions like “The Lion King” “Aladdin” and “Frozen” that enchant audiences of all ages with dazzling costumes, captivating music, and unforgettable storytelling.
Central Park SummerStage provides another exciting option, hosting free outdoor concerts and performances where families can spread out on the lawn and groove to live music ranging from jazz and hip-hop to family-friendly acts. For aquatic adventure, the New York Aquarium offers a captivating experience with its diverse array of marine life, including playful sea otters, majestic sharks, and colorful tropical fish.
Daily feedings, educational presentations, and interactive touch pools provide hands-on learning experiences for children. Additionally, Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theaters present innovative and eclectic performances, including interactive children’s theater productions and experimental puppetry, providing families with a more intimate and affordable alternative to Broadway shows. In the bustling cultural landscape of New York City, families can immerse themselves in the magic of theater, music, and performance while creating cherished memories together.
Seasonal Activities
Throughout the year, New York City offers a plethora of seasonal activities for families to enjoy together.
- Winter: Embrace the magic of winter with ice skating in iconic locations such as Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Central Park. Families can glide across the ice amidst twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating cherished memories against the backdrop of the city’s skyline. Don’t miss the enchanting holiday markets where you can shop for unique gifts, savor seasonal treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
- Summer: When the weather warms up, New York City comes alive with outdoor concerts, festivals, and events. Families can catch free performances at Central Park’s SummerStage, explore food festivals celebrating diverse cuisines, or attend outdoor movie screenings under the stars. With endless opportunities for outdoor recreation in parks and along the waterfront, summer in the city is a time for families to soak up the sun and enjoy quality time together.
- Fall: As the leaves change color, families can embark on scenic hikes in city parks such as Central Park, Prospect Park, and Van Cortlandt Park. Fall foliage tours offer breathtaking views of nature’s beauty, while pumpkin patches and corn mazes provide festive fun for kids of all ages. Don’t forget to indulge in seasonal treats like apple cider donuts, pumpkin spice lattes, and caramel apples at local bakeries and markets.
- Spring: Welcome the arrival of spring with visits to botanical gardens, where families can admire colorful blooms and participate in seasonal activities such as cherry blossom festivals and butterfly releases. Take a stroll along the High Line or explore neighborhood parks bursting with new life. Springtime also brings outdoor markets showcasing fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts.
Conclusion
In New York City, there’s something fun for every family. From seeing famous sights like the Statue of Liberty to exploring cool museums and enjoying yummy food, the Big Apple is full of adventures. Whether you’re walking through Central Park or watching a Broadway show, every moment is special. These experiences create memories that you’ll treasure forever.
So, whether you live in New York or are visiting for a trip, get ready for excitement! Remember to take lots of pictures and have fun exploring all the amazing things this city has to offer with your family. With so much to see and do, New York City is the perfect place for unforgettable family adventures.
