50+ Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids: Where To Stay, Play & Eat

Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids

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New York is a city that can be overwhelming to navigate on your own. There are so many things to see and do, it’s easy for you and the kids not to know where to start!

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered – this article has been created with family travel in mind. I’ve put together a list of the top 50+ things to do with kids in NYC so you can plan the perfect family trip to New York. There’s something for children of all ages, and the grown-ups too!

We’ve been to New York a few times and always find something new to explore on each trip.

Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids

The first time we visited New York, Aiden was about 2 years old. However, the 2nd time around I took him and my nephew, Ethan, and both boys were about 5 years old. I bought them a book about New York City and it made them so excited about the trip.

black kids reading a book

They wanted to stop by every monument listed in the book and every time they got to it, they would oohh and ahhh. It was so cute to see them so excited about visiting NYC.

This map was created with Wanderlog, a trip planner on iOS and Android

Things To Do In New York City With Kids

Kids Museums In NYC

NYC is full of fascinating museums. All of these have something fun or interesting for children.

1. Madame Tussauds

A visit to Madame Tussauds is a great way for the kids to see the world’s most famous celebrities up close and personal. The wax figures are all dressed up and accessorized, with their hair styled to perfection. From Beyoncé to Barack Obama, they’re all waiting in the wings for your visit.

2. National Geographic Encounter

National Geographic Encounter is an interactive museum that has a physical and virtual component. Kids and parents alike will be amazed by the technological displays here – walk across the ocean floor and come face-to-face with sea life on the mega-projection screens. It’s located in the heart of Times Square.

3. Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image has a lot for kids to explore. There are always interactive exhibits, films being shown, and workshops on offer. They also have a series of family activities.

The museum is free to visit, but requires registration for certain workshops or screenings.

4. MoMath

You might not have enjoyed math at school, but MoMath shows that math can be fun! MoMath is a hands-on museum for kids, with exhibits that explore math concepts in the fields of art and design.

Kids can create their own masterpieces using blocks to make 3D sculptures, or they can build out their own city by collecting and connecting modules to create an infinite number of combinations.

Don’t think this is just for children – the grown-ups will love it too.

5. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a great option for family fun with kids. It features an interactive space experience that includes simulators, rides, and more.

If your family likes LEGO, check out the 22-foot, 550-pound model of USS Intrepid made out of LEGO bricks.

6. New York Hall of Science (NYSCI)

The New York Hall of Science (NYSCI) is a hands-on museum for people of all ages. In the summer, they offer science camps and programs to teach kids about robotics, chemistry, and more.

The museum encompasses a whopping area of land and has over 450 interactive exhibits. They have daily demos, live shows, and a fantastic program of year-round events.

7. New York Transit Museum

One of the best places to take your kids in New York City is the New York Transit Museum. The museum has over 40,000 square feet dedicated to exploring NYC’s rich transit history.

It’s housed in an old subway station in downtown Brooklyn and features 19 restored subway cars and other exhibits of trains, buses, trolleys and other modes of transportation used in the past. 

8. The Children’s Museum Of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is the largest children’s museum in North America. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including exhibitions on art and culture; science; nature and animals; and technology. 

9. American Museum Of Natural History

If you are looking for something educational and kid-friendly, this museum has it all. There are many exhibits that will keep you and your kids entertained and engaged.

They have giant screenings of science and education topics, plus a varied program for whole-family activities.

10. The Guggenheim

The Guggenheim Museum is an art museum on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, New York City. It houses a permanent collection that was begun in 1937 by Solomon R. Guggenheim and is on display in the museum’s main building.

It has been “one of the most influential museums of modern art in history” and a popular tourist destination since its opening. Kids will love its architecture with the central open space spiraling up.

11. DiMenna Children’s History Museum

The DiMenna Children’s History Museum teaches children about history, social studies and science through interactive exhibits, digital games, demonstrations and activities. There’s an extensive history library for kids too.

12. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum Of Art And Storytelling

If your kids are fans of stories, this museum will delight them. The Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art and Storytelling has art exhibits that change every few months, but typically feature hands-on activities that teach children about art, science and history.

13. Museum Of Ice Cream

Oh my goodness! Can you imagine anything more appealing for a kid than an ice cream museum? Understandably, the Museum of Ice Cream is a popular destination for families with children.

This enormous museum, which opened in 2016, features 13 multi-sensory installations over 3 floors. It’s an interactive experience that includes ice cream-themed art and installations as well as a menu of over 30 flavors of ice cream.

They also have special ‘Night at the Museum’ sessions for over 16s.

14. Color Factory

The Color Factory is a Museum for children and adults where they can explore color in all its forms. The immersive installations will bring out the curious and playful side of your whole family.

15. Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Times Square is a super cool museum for kids and adults to explore the strange, unusual, and unbelievable. It’s especially interesting for teens and older kids

16. The South Street Seaport Museum

The South Street Seaport Museum is a museum for kids and adults to explore the history of seafaring in New York. It has educational programs for kids of all ages, as well as family activities.

Activities In NYC For Kids – Hit The stores

Checking out the incredible New York kids’ stores is essential in any visit to NYC.

17. The FAO Schwarz store

The FAO Schwarz store is a great place for children who love toys, and parents will enjoy browsing in this New York City landmark too. They have an incredible selection of stuffed animals, toys and games for children of all ages.

18. LEGO Flagship Store

The LEGO Flagship store in Manhattan is filled with larger-than-life LEGO constructions, walls of toys, games, hands-on play areas with LEGO bricks, and more. There’s even an interactive storytelling table for the grown-ups!

19. American Girl

The American Girl store is a large, pink-accented store where girls can buy dolls and related products. It’s not just a store though.

There are lots of different classes and activities ranging from yoga to hairstyling in the store’s own salon. They host birthday parties in-store, or sell you gorgeous at-home party kits. There’s a cafe for whole family dining.

Activities And Attractions For Kids In NYC

There aren’t enough hours in the day to visit everything NYC has to offer, so here’s a round-up of the best places to visit with kids on a family vacation in New York.

20. Go To The Top Of The Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is located on Fifth Avenue and 34th Street. The building has 102 floors with observatories at the 86th, 102nd, and 106th floor. As well as the incredible views over the city, there are interactive Science and Technology exhibitions for kids in the Education Center.

21. Visit 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial and Memorial Museum is located at the site where the World Trade Center once stood. The Memorial is free to visit. The museum tells the story of those who died on September 11th, 2001.

9/11 Memorial

22. Visit Times Square

Everyone is familiar with the bright, electric billboards that cover Times Square’s buildings. This bustling neighborhood is a great place to go year-round. Kids will love the daily street art and live music.

Visit Times Square | Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids

Parks, Zoos And Aquariums in New York City

You’re spoiled for choices for outdoor spaces to explore in NYC. 

23. Central Parks

The most famous, Central Park, is a wonderland for kids and adults alike.

Central Park is a historical and cultural landmark that offers some of the best family fun in New York City. In addition, Central Park’s central location makes it an easy destination for exploring other city attractions.

Central Park walking tours are available or for some real fun, bundle the family up into a horse and carriage ride.

24. Central Park Zoo

Central Park Zoo is another popular destination for kids, offering much more than just looking at zoo animals. You can feed penguins and sea lions, take in a movie at the 4D theatre, and pet farm animals. 

25. The Bronx Zoo 

The Bronx Zoo is larger than Central Park’s and so has a bigger variety of animals and habitats. As well as the animal exhibits, there’s an interesting program of events throughout the year.

26. Bronx Zoo Treetop Adventure

The Treetop Adventure is an exciting adventure park of ziplines and ropes over the Bronx River. The activities are suitable for kids aged 7 and over.

27. Walk The High Line

This elevated park is perfect for nature lovers and families with children who like to explore.

It was originally a train line that has now been transformed into a beautiful park with plenty of seating areas, beautiful vantage points across the city and art installations.

28. Grand Central Terminal

This iconic building has featured in countless movies and offers far more than just catching a train. Your kids will love to explore Grand Central Terminal, taking in the iconic architecture, visiting one of its many shops or playing in the Whispering Gallery.

29. New York Botanical Garden, The Bronx

Explore 250 acres of the Bronx at the Botanical Garden. There are always kid-friendly activities and events on offer. The larger-than-life exhibits and art will amaze the whole family.

Explore New York City By Water

It’s always interesting to explore a city by water – you get a totally different perspective on it.

30. Go On A Boat Ride Around Manhattan

A boat ride around Manhattan is a great way to take in the best sights of the city. There are tour options for all budgets, and you’ll get to see the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, all of Manhattan’s skyscrapers-and much more!

31. Visit The Statue Of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in America. The statue has been a symbol for freedom and democracy around the world since its construction in 1886. Visitors can explore all levels up to the crown.

32. Governor’s Island

Governor’s Island is a popular tourist destination for families. The island has many attractions to enjoy, especially from May through to October when it hosts an impressive series of activities, exhibitions and events.

Check out the website for the changing program details. Make a day of it by renting bikes and exploring the island at your leisure.

Things To Do With Kids On Staten Island

Staten Island has lots of things for kids to see and do. 

33. Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry that travels between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. It departs from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan, and the St George Ferry Terminal on Staten Island.

The ferry provides a beautiful view of the New York Harbor and Bay, with views of Ellis Island and Governor’s Island. The Staten Island Ferry is one of the most popular ways to get around.

34. Staten Island Zoo

The zoo is open almost every day of the year and offers an interesting program of events for kids, as well as animal and interactive exhibits.

35. Staten Island Children’s Museum

The Staten Island Children’s Museum is a fun, interactive museum that teaches children about science, technology and more.

It has exhibits like the recycling center where kids can explore different forms of trash to learn what they can and can’t recycle, a kitchen where children learn about the science behind cooking food, and more.

Other Things To Do In New York With Kids

36. Visit Rockefeller Center

This is home to many NBC hit shows such as The Today Show, Saturday Night Live and Jimmy Falon.

37. The Ride NYC Bus Tour

This is a fun, family friendly tour around NYC with singing, dancing and lots of entertainment along the way. It is very highly rates, especially by families.

38. Big Bus Hop On / Off Tour

This is a fun tour that allows you to see all the fun NYC sights. This allows you to get on and off wherever you want to. The bus runs every 15 minutes so it’s very convenient.

The Flat Iron building in the photo below is one of the stops on the Hop Off / On Bus. It’s very popular because of it’s shape.

Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids

39. Watch a Broadway Show

There are so many fun shows to watch on broadway. My favorite “Lion King”.

40. Watch a Basketball Game at Madison Square Garden

If you and your kids are sports fans, then make sure to plan your trip around an upcoming basketball game.

41. Dylan’s Candy Bar

This candy bar has some of the best desserts and drinks you’ll ever have! There are so many options you won’t know which one to choose.

42. Brooklyn Bridge

This is the most famous bridge in NYC and it is free to take a walk on it.

43. Eat New York Style Pizza

This is something you don’t want to miss when in NYC with kids. NYC style pizza is soooo good!

Eat New York Style Pizza

44. Staten Island Ferry

You can ride the Staten Island Ferry for free. 

45. Brooklyn’s Children’s Museum

This Children’s Museum was founded in 1899 and is the oldest children’s museum in the US.

46. Cooking Class

One thing that the kids really enjoyed was taking a cooking class in New York City. We took one with Fresh Made NYC and it was very hands on for the kids.

47. Visit The Beach

Did you know that New York City has beaches? Most people don’t know this. A few good options are; Sandy Hook beach and Rockaway beach.

48. Dinner Cruise

This is an activity you all will enjoy as a family. Sailing in New York while eating dinner and dancing to music. Here are the best Dinner Cruises in New York.

49. Luna Park

Although this is a bit out of NYC in Coney Island, it is an amusement park that is worth the visit when in New York City with kids.

50. Bryant Park

This park comes to live in the winter and offers ice skating from 8am to 10pm every day! 

51. Book A Tour

There are so many tours you can take in New York such as a food tour or a tour of the city. I’ve used Like A Local Tours in NYC with kids and really enjoyed how well they took us around and explained everything.

The Best New York City Playgrounds For Kids

One thing about NYC is that they have beautiful playgrounds for kids. So if you just want to sit and relax or pack a picnic, you can head to the park and watch your kids play while you relax.

  1. Slide Hill, Governor’s Island
  2. Ancient Playground, Central Park
  3. Adventure Playground, Central Park
  4. Sweetwater Playground, Domino Park
  5. Pier 6 Playgrounds, Brooklyn Bridge Park
  6. Vanderbilt Street Playground, Prospect Park
  7. Bloomingdale Playground, Upper Manhattan
  8. Main Street Playground, Brooklyn Bridge Park
  9. Chelsea Waterside Playground, Hudson River Park
  10. Seaside Nature Wildlife Park Playground, Staten Island

Where To Stay In New York City With Kids

Where To Stay In New York City With Kids
Conrad NY Downtown

There are many options to choose from, however if you want to be right in the middle of everything, make sure to book a hotel in the Times Square area. Do note that these hotels tend to cost a lot more.

We have stayed at the Hampton Inn Manhattan/Times Square, the DoubleTree by Hilton New York Times Square South and the Conrad New York Downtown, and all three hotels are in really perfect locations making it easy to get around the city.

Hotels don’t offer parking, so keep this in mind if you plan to drive to NYC. We had to park over 10 blocks away because we couldn’t find parking for our truck. Parking for regular cars was $50 and trucks $65 – so keep this in mind when planning your NYC trip with kids.

Family Friendly Hotels In Times Square

  • Hilton Times Square
  • Millenium Times Square
  • Tryp Times Square South
  • Hilton Garden Inn Times Square
  • The Hampton Inn Times Square North
  • The Westin New York at Times Square
  • Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square

Family Friendly Hotels In NYC but not in Times Square

  • Pod 39, Midtown West
  • Skyline Hotel, Midtown West
  • Lowell Hotel Upper East Side
  • Travel Inn Hotel, Midtown West
  • Hotel Beacon, Upper West Side
  • Hotel Beacon, Upper West Side
  • Parker New York, Midtown West
  • Novotel New York, Times Square
  • The Evelyn, formerly The Gershwin, Flatiron District

How To Get Around New York City With Kids

The best way to get around NYC with kids is by using the subway, metro and bus system. They run very often, are on time and are easy to navigate. Google maps is the best way to help map this out. If you do get confused, you can always ask someone. New Yorkers are friendly and always happy to help!

NYC subway with kids

Uber, Lyft and Taxis are also readily available and very easy to take around the city. These are great options for when you don’t want to deal with the bus, metro or subway.

I don’t recommend driving at all because finding parking is almost impossible, and the traffic in NYC can get pretty bad too. So you’ll end up spending most of your day driving vs enjoying the city.

Where To Eat In New York City With Kids

There are plenty of places to find good food in New York City, and here are a few options below.

Where To Eat In New York City With Kids
  • Eataly
  • Shacke Shack
  • Serendipity 3
  • Ellen’s Stardust Diner
  • Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
  • American Girl Café
  • Alice’s Tea Cup
  • Street hot dog stands
  • Mom’s Kitchen & Bar
  • Carmine’s Italian Restaurant
  • Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer
Kid-friendly activities in NYC

How To Get To New York City With Kids

There are 3 airports around the NYC area which makes flying there really easy.

  • LaGuardia Airport (LGA)
  • Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
  • John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

You can also get there by taking the train. A few options are Amtrak, Metro-North Railroad, Long Island Rail Road and NJ Transit.

You can also drive to New York, but keep in mind how hard and expensive parking can get before you make this choice. You can use Best Parking and/or Spot Hero to compare parking spots and prices. Another option is for you to park out of the city and take the train into New York City.

Overall Thoughts On New York City With Kids

There are so many things for kids to do in NYC, you’re spoiled for choice. Whether you’ve got little kids or older teens, there really is something for everyone in this fascinating city.

Kay, The Mom Trotter

Hey Fam, I’m so glad you’re here!
I am an entrepreneur and travel enthusiast who is passionate about sharing an alternate way of living surrounding travel, homeschooling, parenting and financial independence, with a mission to inspire other families.

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