If there’s one United States city that captivates the imagination of kids and adults alike, it’s New York.
And if you’ve decide to make it your family’s next vacation destination, then you’re in for a treat. There’s no shortage of things to do with kids in New York!
Looking for some inspiration? Consider these 7 kid-friendly activities and attractions for a vacation you’ll never forget!
Head To a Sports Game
When it comes to sports, New York City has something for everyone. So, it goes without saying that one of the best things to do with kids in New York is heading to a sports game!
One of the most famous sporting venues in the world is New York’s beloved Madison Square Garden, home of the NHL and NBA in NYC, as well as numerous concerts and special events.
So, make sure to see if there’s a game going on during your visit! Spending an evening watching the New York Knicks or the Rangers in such an iconic arena is something your family will never forget!
Check Out Some Of The Numerous Museums
New York is one of the USA’s oldest cities and, as such, has a plethora of museums to visit.
While some might not appeal directly to kids, there are many others that are incredibly child-friendly and provide lots of opportunities to learn about a wide range of subjects in an engaging way.
Some of the top museums for children in New York include:
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum
- Rose Center for Earth and Space
- Staten Island Children’s Museum
- New York Hall of Science
- Liberty Science Center
- Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
- National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath)
- American Museum of Natural History
To save on admission to many of the city’s top museums, pick up a New York Pass to use on your vacation!
Grab A Slice. Or Two. Or Three…
While it might seem like a stereotype, pizza is synonymous with the Big Apple. And when you try New York-style pizza for the first time, you’ll understand why!
Brought over by Italian and Sicilian immigrants in the late 1800s, Italian cuisine can be seen throughout the city. And this is especially true of the many pizzerias dotted around the five boroughs from Brooklyn to Queens.
If you’re with your kids, there is no better way to satisfy your family’s hunger and avoid hangry outbursts than by grabbing a slice.
Once you’ve tried one piece, you may even want to make it your mission to find the best New York pizza during your stay!
Discover Urban Nature In Central Park
Central Park boasts a unique beauty, providing New York residents and visitors with an oasis of nature surrounded by a manufactured concrete jungle.
No trip to the city would be complete without a stroll through Central Park. And depending on the time of year, the park is also home to various exhibits, shows, and activities.
Enjoy the stunning gardens and unique statues throughout the park, take a spin on the carousel, and stop to listen to the songs played by the Delacorte Music Clock.
It’s the perfect way to enjoy some time outdoors while still seeing some of the most iconic spots in all of New York City!
Visit The New York Aquarium
There’s nothing quite like seeing sharks, sea otters, jellyfish, and more up close. And the famous New York Aquarium lets visitors do all that and more!
Families can watch a show at the Aquatheater, head below the surface to see the sharks, rays, and sea turtles that live just off the Coney Island Boardwalk, or enjoy a multi-sensory experience in the 4D Theater.
With amazing sights and plenty of opportunities to learn about the ocean and its inhabitants, the New York Aquarium is always one of the top things to do with kids in New York.
Go To The Top Of The One World Observatory
Everyone is aware of the tragic history surrounding the World Trade Center, but from the ashes of the destruction the One World Trade Center, and the One World Observatory, were born.
The observatory is an observation area that spans the top three floors of the One World Trade Center. It is the highest public observation deck in the United States and one of the most popular attractions in New York City.
Featuring a SkyPod elevator ride to the top, incredible 360-degree views of New York City, a Sky Portal glass floor, and more, the One World Observatory is a uniquely unforgettable way to experience the city from above.
Get Your Skates On (If In Season)
If you happen to be visiting in the winter months, you won’t want to miss visiting the famous Rockefeller Center ice rink!
While the rink is especially magical during the holiday season, it’s a great spot to spend the day during any of the winter months.
Tickets to use the rink include skate rentals, so there’s no need to worry about finding your own gear. Your family can even join in a group skate lesson to perfect their skills on the ice!
With so many things to do with kids in New York, there’s simply no way to list everything.
So, start with one or two of these ideas, add in your own must-visit spots, and get ready for a vacation you’ll never forget!