junior tours new york city

Popular New York City Tours

The statue of liberty, empire state building and broadway are waiting. experience the cultural capital of the world. check out some of our most popular student trips to new york city..

New York City: The Big Apple

See Greenwich Village, SOHO and Rockefeller Center

Broadway & the Arts

Participate in a drama workshop, take in two Broadway shows, and stop by Radio City Music Hall.

Washington, D.C. & New York

The Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery and Times Square await.

Metropolitan Manhattan

Explore Chinatown, Ellis Island and Times Square.

New York City: Visual Arts

Step inside SoHo’s famed galleries, look around the MET and discover the majestic architecture of the Guggenheim.

New York & Boston

Experience the Statue of Liberty, Lexington & Concord and the Museum of Science.

Business in New York

Visit Wall Street, an observation deck, and Ellis Island.

The Eastern Seaboard

Explore Boston, New York City, Washington, D.C., and more.

Black History & Culture in New York City

Visit the Apollo Theater, Sugar Hill, and Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.

New York, Washington, D.C. & Williamsburg

Experience Independence Hall, a Jamestown Settlement and Central Park.

Browse all tours to New York City

The possibilities are endless., find the tour that's right for your group..

Let us plan an exceptional student tour package for you focused on drama , dance , music or art!

New york city & broadway student travel connection.

Manhattan Tour & Travel is the premiere group student tour company specializing in theater arts & fine arts student trips to New York City. Our team of professionals will help you plan an exceptional student tour package focusing on drama, dance, music or art.

The company was founded by Sandy Levitt, an accomplished actor and producer, more than 20 years ago. Over the years, Manhattan Tour & Travel has maintained close relationships with actors and teaching professionals in the Broadway theatre community. We invite you to participate in our fun filled & exciting workshops … a memorable experience for student tour groups of all ages!

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VIP Treatment Your company was extremely impressive. My group felt we received VIP treatment. Jim was extremely helpful, knowledgeable and all around great to have as a guide. S. Roberts, El Reno, OK

Amazing Experience Once again, thanks so much for everything! What an amazing experience for students. Even the parents who were with my group had nothing but raves reviews. K. Carson Elhai, Claremont, CA

Wonderfully Planned Thank you for a wonderfully planned and meticulously organized trip. I truly appreciate it. This trip changed some of these children's lives. G. Rodriguez, Cumming, GA

Fabulous Experience What a fabulous experience from start to finish. We loved the workshops, the dinners and of course the theatre! Can’t wait to come back in two years! A. Sinclair, Skokie , IL

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Kids in NYC

Private Tour of Manhattan

Fun for the whole family

We love kids at Real New York Tours and are always excited to see their eyes light up when touring the city. So we are taking it one step further and have created a tour especially geared toward families! This tour covers sites associated with children's movies and books, and other cool kid friendly sites and stories.

Experience Real New York

We will explore not just the iconic sites, but seldom seen hidden gems that most tourists never get to experience.

Real New York Tour Guide

We truly believe our guides are the best in New York. It is their own unique perspective that makes our tours personalized, memorable, fun, and anything but cookie cutter.

Learn to Navigate the City

Whether you tour by subway & foot or private vehicle, our tours offer a local and immersive perspective of NYC. Our guides will offer helpful tips on how to navigate the city so you can get the most out of your visit.

No Microphones, Flags, or Scripts

With the personal and intimate experience we offer, you don't have to worry about looking like a tourist.

Pricing & Details Touring by Subway and Foot

For groups larger than 12 guests, please contact us for pricing.

• Recommended start time of 10am
• This tour meets at the main entrance to the Museum of Natural History at Central Park West & 79th Street
• Each guest will need 3-4 subway rides on a MetroCard
• This tour is done by subway and walking so if you have any serious mobility issues please let us know
• If you need to cancel or reschedule for any reason, please do so within 48 hours

Pricing & Details Touring by Private Vehicle

• Private Tour Guide
• Driver & Vehicle
• For 3 hours
• Your guide can meet you at the concierge desk of your hotel if you are staying in Manhattan
• We will be getting out of the vehicle for short walks during the tour so please wear comfortable shoes and check the weather for the appropriate dress

Kids Books and Movies!

As a special bonus, your family might want to check out the following books and movies associated with a few of the sites! Eloise, written by Kay Thompson The Plaza Hotel Madagascar, animated movie The Central Park Zoo and Grand Central Terminal Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, movie Bethesda Fountain and The Plaza Hotel Enchanted, movie Bethesda Terrace and Fountain The Last Olympian, a novel by Rick Riordan Grand Central Terminal and The Plaza Hotel

Kids in NYC Itinerary

Other Private Tour Options

Lower East Side & Williamsburg

Harlem & Morningside Heights

15 Exciting NYC Tours for Families Worth Booking

Posted on Last updated: January 3, 2024

Home » Destinations » New York City » 15 Exciting NYC Tours for Families Worth Booking

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Planning a trip to NYC with kids and looking for family-friendly tours? Keep scrolling to check out the coolest NYC tours for families that we’ve done and loved!

This list of kid-friendly nyc tours for families was written by family travel expert marcie cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, i may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog..

My family loves exploring New York City. I mean, there’s just SO much to see and do for the whole family!

One of our favorite things to do in New York City with kids is go on guided tours. It’s an easy way to tackle the Big Apple while getting insider tips from a local expert.

Keep scrolling to find out our favorite NYC tours for families that are definitely worth booking on your next trip to NYC with kids!

Don’t have time to read a bunch of New York City blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting NYC with kids.

Popular NYC Tours/Activities

• Summit One Vanderbilt (this is the coolest observation tower in NYC)
• NYC Tour (this one drives around to the highlights and goes to the Statue of Liberty)
• Museum of Ice Cream (perfect for kids who love treats and parents who love taking photos)
• American Museum of Natural History (there are tons of interesting exhibits for kids)
• Flytographer Photo Shoot (this is an easy and affordable NYC photography option)

Kid-Friendly NYC Hotels

• Mint House at 70 Pine (has full kitchens and laundry)
• SIXTY SoHo (super close to the Museum of Ice Cream and the Color Factory)
• EVEN Hotel New York Times Square South (great location near Times Square)

15 Amazing NYC Tours for Kids Worth Booking

Statue of liberty & ellis island guided tour with ferry.

I have to kick off the list with one of the most famous NYC attractions that every kid knows about: The Statue of Liberty !

Set off on a captivating boat ride to the iconic Statue of Liberty, taking in panoramic views of the New York City skyline, including landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building.

Your expert guide will not only navigate you through the mandatory security procedures but will also enhance your experience with engaging stories and facts about the monument.

Journey further to Ellis Island, stepping into the historic path of countless immigrants at America’s Immigration Museum, and witness emblematic sites like the Great Hall, the Stairs of Separation, and the poignant Kissing Post. Check the latest rates and availability .

Skip-the-Line Metropolitan Museum Family Tour

We LOVE doing kid-friendly tours of museums whenever we travel and New York City is no exception.

Embark on an exciting, family-friendly journey as our knowledgeable guide ushers you through the vast treasures of the Metropolitan Museum .

Your kids will enjoy the splendor of the Greek and Roman collections, marvel at ancient relics such as the Amathus sarcophagus, and be dazzled by armored knights in the Arms and Armors Hall.

With specially crafted games and customized experiences, this is a not-to-miss opportunity to combine fun and learning at the heart of New York’s renowned art hub. Check the latest rates and availability .

American Museum of Natural History Private Family Tour

Start your adventure at the American Museum of Natural History by meeting your tour guide at the entrance, prepared with your chosen exhibits in mind to make the most of the tour.

Be transported from the dinosaur era to the far reaches of the cosmos at the Rose Center for Earth and Space, all while learning about various ecosystems and cultures worldwide.

Following the tour, the day is yours to continue exploring the museum’s wealth of knowledge at your own pace, with your ticket valid for the entire day. Check the latest rates and availability .

Ground Zero Kid-Friendly Tour with 9/11 Museum Ticket

Talking to your kids about 9/11 can be really tricky. And not all tours of Ground Zero are appropriate for younger visitors.

Embark on a private family tour to the poignant Ground Zero site, providing a deep dive into the history of the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Your personal guide will facilitate a meaningful dialogue, answering questions and guiding you to reliable sources for further understanding, offering a supportive environment for children to share their thoughts.

Concluding the tour, you’ll be equipped with skip-the-line tickets to the 9/11 Memorial, continuing the journey of reflection and learning. Check the latest rates and availability .

Get Our FREE NYC Travel Planner

Superheroes of nyc guided walking tour.

Delve into the remarkable world of superheroes on a 2-hour tour in New York City , learning trivia like the origins of Kryptonite and the spot where Batman was saved from cancellation.

Starting at the United Nations Headquarters, trace the paths of iconic characters down 42nd Street, peeking into the Daily News building and spotting film locations from shows like Gotham and Netflix’s Daredevil.

As you stroll down historic Publisher’s Row and marvel at renowned sites like the Chrysler Building, your guide will share enthralling stories that made us believe a man could fly! Check the latest rates and availability .

Book a Family Photo Shoot

Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy and affordable AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.

Bus Tour to Superhero Film Locations

Embark on the Super Tour of NYC , a must-see journey through over 40 film locations from popular superhero movies and TV shows, including Spider-Man, Superman, and Jessica Jones.

Starting from the vibrant heart of Times Square and navigating through diverse neighborhoods and iconic sites like the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, you’ll witness the city’s rich cinematic history.

Cap off the tour with a visit to Battery Park for a glimpse of Lady Liberty, before optionally hopping on the Staten Island Ferry , ensuring a fun-filled experience for all, particularly younger kids who prefer bus tours over walking.

This is one of the best New York tours for families who are superhero fans! Check the latest rates and availability .

See 30 Top New York Sights (Kids are FREE)

Immerse yourself in the heart of New York City with this small-group tour , ensuring a personal and enriching exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks from Wall Street’s Bull statue to the Guggenheim Museum in Central Park.

Navigating through culturally diverse neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, Chinatown, and Little Italy, your guide will provide essential historical context and intriguing tales of gangsters and gastronomy.

A stroll through Central Park brings the tour to a relaxing close, with sights including the Zoo, Gapstow Bridge, and the Met Museum of Art, creating a fully rounded and unforgettable New York experience. Check the latest rates and availability .

The Original Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

Embark on a sweet exploration of New York City on a 2-hour cupcake tasting tour , visiting an array of trendy bake shops, known for their heavenly and diverse offerings.

Savor seven tastings from popular venues like Baked by Melissa and Magnolia, and even create your own custom cupcake at Molly’s Cupcakes.

Though primarily a cupcake tour , be sure to indulge in the tantalizing gelato offered at Amorino in Greenwich Village, where you can sample a remarkable 22 flavors in one delectable bite! Check the latest rates and availability .

Hamilton Musical Walking Tour

Dive into the life and times of Alexander Hamilton with this immersive walking tour inspired by the Tony Award-winning ‘Hamilton’ musical, offering a unique exploration of lower Manhattan through the lens of this Founding Father’s life.

Journey through history with stops at significant locations such as King’s College, Thomas Jefferson’s house, and Trinity Church, each carrying a melody from the hit Broadway show.

Whether a Hamilton musical enthusiast or a history buff, this tour will enrich your understanding of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s groundbreaking work and the man who inspired it. Check the latest rates and availability .

Circle Line Best of NYC Skip-The-Box-Office Cruise

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of New York City on a leisurely cruise around Manhattan Island , where you’ll pass iconic landmarks, spanning three rivers and seven bridges, including the renowned Brooklyn Bridge.

Be captivated by a unique perspective of the Statue of Liberty and the enthralling stories shared by your knowledgeable guide, bringing to life over 101 sights in the city’s legendary skyline.

Highlights include the enchanting views of Randall’s Island, Columbia University, Yankee Stadium, and the quaint Little Red Lighthouse, presenting a panorama of New York like no other. Check the latest rates and availability .

Half-Day Pizza Tasting Bus Tour

Experience the best of New York’s pizza scene by hopping aboard the big yellow pizza bus, a unique tour guided by the pizza enthusiast, Scott Wiener.

As you navigate the diverse boroughs of New York, from Manhattan to Brooklyn, enjoy four slices from significant pizzerias, including establishments boasting the city’s oldest brick ovens.

Beyond the delicious eats, engage in rich discussions about pizza culture, ensuring each tour is as informative as it is mouthwatering. Check the latest rates and availability .

Harry Potter & The Fantastic Beasts Guided Tour

Step into the captivating wizarding world as you start your magical journey in Lower Manhattan , exploring the history of Fantastic Beasts in their cinematic, literary, and real-world incarnations.

As you traverse through iconic locations such as City Hall, Woolworth Building (NYC Ministry of Magic), and Central Park, where Newt performed his amusing dance, immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Newt, his friends, and his beasts, all in the heart of New York City.

Pack your Fantastic Beasts and Potter knowledge for their quiz, put on comfortable walking shoes, and prepare to Alohomora! your way into a magical adventure. Check the latest rates and availability .

Little Italy Italian Food Tasting Tour

Dive into the rich culinary history of Little Italy with a 2-hour tasting tour , visiting century-old establishments for a gastronomic adventure equivalent to a 4-course lunch.

Begin with Italian Rainbow cookies at La Bella Ferrara, experience the tradition of mozzarella-making at Di Palo’s, and savor authentic pizza at Nolita Pizza, with a detour to Ferrara Bakery guided by iconic movie locations.

This NYC food tour culminates with a visit to the landmark St. Patrick’s Cathedral, wrapping up a flavorful journey through New York’s Italian heritage. Check the latest rates and availability .

New York City Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village

Embark on a haunting exploration of Greenwich Village , one of New York City’s most beautiful yet ghost-ridden neighborhoods, and uncover its chilling past guided by a storyteller who revives tales of celebrity apparitions, lost children, and elusive phantoms.

Traverse the eerie paths of Washington Square Park, the New York University campus, and West 10th Street, where the phantasmal history lurks in every corner.

With a tour starting at twilight , prepare for a spine-tingling adventure as the spectral tales of Greenwich Village come to life under the cloak of darkness. Check the latest rates and availability .

THE RIDE: An Interactive Entertainment Experience

Experience the magic of Broadway and the vibrancy of New York City in a unique, immersive bus tour that transforms the city streets into a theatrical stage.

With THE RIDE Experience , you’ll delight in a highly interactive spectacle, where Midtown Manhattan’s iconic landmarks serve as a backdrop for a thrilling performance.

Perfect for families and theatre enthusiasts, this innovative tour features a bus with tiered stadium seating and live commentary, offering an exhilarating and fresh approach to sightseeing in NYC.

This is by far one of the best NYC bus tours for families. Check the latest rates and availability .

New York Tours for Families FAQ

How do i plan a family trip to new york city.

To plan a family trip to New York City, first set a budget, decide on the time of year to visit, choose family-friendly accommodations, and draft an itinerary that includes diverse attractions to entertain all family members.

What’s the best way to tour New York City?

The best way to tour New York City depends on your preferences, but options include guided walking tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike tours, boat tours, or self-guided tours using apps or guidebooks.

Is NYC family-friendly?

Yes, New York City is highly family-friendly, offering a wide array of activities and attractions for children, easily navigable public transportation, and numerous family-friendly dining options.

Can children participate in walking tours?

Yes, children can participate in walking tours, but it’s important to consider the length of the tour and whether it’s suitable for your child’s age and stamina.

Are there any children’s museums in NYC?

Yes, check out the Staten Island Children’s Museum, Brooklyn Children’s Museum, and Queens County Farm Museum.

Where are the top places to play in NYC with kids?

A few top spots include Brooklyn Bridge Park, Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, Central Park Zoo, Outdoor Science Playground, Coney Island, and Luna Park.

Are there any tours specifically designed for kids?

Yes, there are several tours designed with kids in mind. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Madame Tussauds, and the Children’s Museum of Manhattan offer interactive experiences that kids love.

Are strollers allowed on tours?

Policies vary depending on the tour and the location. Many walking tours and outdoor locations are stroller-friendly, but it’s always best to check in advance.

Are there discounts for children on tours?

Many tours offer discounted rates for children under a certain age. Some even offer free admission for young children. It’s best to check the specific tour details for this information.

What should we bring on our tour?

It’s always a good idea to bring water, snacks (if permitted), sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, and weather-appropriate clothing. If you’re with young children, consider bringing a stroller, diapers, and any other necessary supplies.

Is it better to book a tour in advance or can we just show up?

It’s generally better to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, as popular tours can sell out. Booking ahead also allows you to plan your schedule more effectively.

Are there any educational tours suitable for children?

Yes, many New York City tours are both fun and educational. The Natural History Museum, New York Transit Museum, and tours of historical sites like Ellis Island can provide enriching experiences for kids.

Best New York City Tours for Families Wrap-Up

A family trip to NYC promises a plethora of unforgettable moments. The best NYC tours for families open doors to a diverse array of attractions, catering to every member of the family.

You can explore the world-famous Central Park Zoo or New York Aquarium, cruise on a scenic boat tour around the city’s iconic skyline, or delve into history at renowned museums.

There’s no end to what the NYC family attractions have to offer, ensuring fun-filled experiences for the whole family.

From engaging walking tours to sightseeing bus rides, every activity is designed to provide a unique perspective of the Big Apple.

So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure that will captivate, entertain, and educate your family, providing memories to cherish for a lifetime. NYC is more than just a city; it’s an experience waiting to be discovered.

Looking for more New York City travel resources? Check out my best NYC hotels for families , 7-day NYC for families itinerary , day trips from NYC , New York City day tours , private tours of NYC , how to save money in New York City , and New York City travel tips for first-timers !

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New York City with Kids – The Best Things to Do

SD › NYC with Kids Updated: July 19, 2022 By Santorini Dave

• Where to Stay in NYC

NYC Family Tours

NYC Tour Tips Tip #1: Do a tour! They’re an easy and convenient way to see the city. Guides are great at making it fun and interesting for kids (and adults). Believe me, you won’t regret doing a tour. Tip #2: Book early! Tours are super popular and sell out months in advance. When you see something you like, reserve your dates. Tip #3: Check age requirements for all tours and tickets. For some tours you need to be age 6 or more. Broadway shows are typically age 4 or more. And the 9/11 museum is probably best for those 10 or older. The Best NYC Tours for Kids Get Your Guide – Great site for finding tours and getting large discounts. Best Food Tours in NYC – Doing a food tour is an awesome way to explore the city for families and first time visitors. New York City Explorer Pass The pass allows free access to the Empire State Building, the Museum of Natural History, The MET, the Statue of Liberty, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, the Top of the Rock Observatory, and many more top attractions. It’s a great deal for families. Half-Day Pizza Tasting Bus Tour History meets pizza. The tour takes 4.5 hours and visits the best pizzerias in Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx. Very kid-friendly. Brooklyn Food and Culture Bus Tour Great NYC food tour for families. Lots of fun. Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village 2 hours of cupcakes and gelato from 6 different shops. An easy going tour through this historic neighborhood. To say this tour gets 5 stars from kids would be an understatement. Helicopter Tour of NYC Incredible views and an unbelievable experience. Expensive (but worth it). New York City Bus Tour Great if you don’t have a lot of time. See the top sites from Harlem through the Upper West Side, Mid-town, and down to the Financial District and Battery Park. Skip The Line (highly recommended): Empire State Building • One World Observatory • Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island • 9/11 Museum • Museum of Natural History • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum • 30 Rockefeller Plaza • The Met Museum of Art

The 48 Best Things To Do in New York with Kids

1. The Empire State Building

A visit the Empire State Building with its dazzling city views from the 86th floor is a great New York experience, but it can be a hassle without careful planning. You’ll have two potential lines to cope with—buying tickets and waiting for the elevator. Skip the long ticket lines and order tickets online (recommended) and eliminate both the ticket and elevator lines. (If you don’t, minimize the elevator wait by coming at the least crowded hours, first thing in the morning or late in the day). Tips: Dusk is an ideal time to see the city and watch the lights twinkle on, a magical sight. Make the most of your time by using the rest room on the second floor before you ascend. Everyone must go through a security check so speed things up by being prepared—no liquids, no tripods. There is no check room, so don’t bring anything you cannot carry comfortably. If you must visit at busy times, bring something to entertain the kids while you wait as lines can be long (unless, of course, you bought the express tickets). Open every day, 365 days a year rain or shine. 8am to 2am.

2. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

Allow several hours as there’s a lot to see—exploring the historic (and enormous) aircraft carrier itself, nearly 30 vintage planes on the flight deck, a guided missile submarine, and the space shuttle Enterprise. The Exploreum on the hangar level is full of interactive fun for kids like climbing into a helicopter and steering the wings of a plane. Save time, skip lines, and buy tickets online in advance . But be forewarned: many enticing exhibits, guided tours, and the space shuttle pavilion require extra fees. However, there is plenty to do without the extras. The Intrepid is best suited to older children who can appreciate the history. There is lots of walking, much of it outdoors, so sunscreen and hats are advisable. The best way to get here is the #50 crosstown bus headed west, which brings you right to the door. Spring/Summer Hours: (April 1 – October 31) Monday – Friday: 10:00am – 5:00pm. Saturday, Sunday & Holidays 10:00am – 6:00pm. Fall/Winter Hours: (November 1 – March 31) Daily (including Holidays) 10:00 am – 5:00pm.

3. Children’s Museum of Manhattan

If you’re traveling with young children, visit this nirvana designed for ages six and under. Age-specific exhibits include Playworks for the youngest visitors and Adventures with Dora and Diego for ages 2 to 6. Changing exhibits show how children live in other lands. City Splash water play is a favorite in warm weather and offers the chance to sail a boat, paint with water, and play with sand. The museum provides waterproof smocks but it may be wise to bring a change of clothes in case of splashes. Stop at the information desk for the daily schedule of special workshops and performances, all included with admission. No food or drink is available in the museum but hand stamps at admission allows you to come and go all day. Grab a sandwich at Café 82 at Broadway & 82nd, then head to nearby Riverside Park for a picnic and playgrounds. Subway: 1 train to 79th Street. M104 Broadway bus to 82nd Street. Tuesday to Friday: 10am – 5pm. Saturday: 10am – 7pm. Sunday: 10am – 5pm.

4. Natural History Museum

This great museum covers two square blocks and can’t be covered in one day, so start by looking at the floor plan and deciding on the exhibits that best match your own family’s interests. The dinosaurs are the biggest draw but don’t forget the giant blue whale, the African elephants, the animal dioramas, or the fabulous gems and minerals with treasures like the 56-carat Star of India sapphire. Check out the Discovery Room where kids can hunt for animals in a replica African baobab tree or examine specimens such as minerals or skulls. The museum adjoins the Rose Center for Earth and Space with exhibits and spectacular shows at the Hayden Planetarium. Nature films on the huge IMAX screen are another draw. When you want a lunch break, look down. Spoon and fork displays in the floor point the way to the nearest restaurants. The museum shops have wonderful selections of educational toys as well as inexpensive treats for the kids. Book tickets online to skip the long lines. For a real adventure, check the schedule for the next Night at the Museum sleepover for families, with comfortable accommodations and featuring a midnight fossil hunt, films, and other diversions. Subway: C train to 81st Street (take 79th Street exit), M79 bus to Central Park West. Open daily from 10am – 5:45pm.

5. Brooklyn Bridge (Pedestrian & Bike Promenade)

Get the camera ready for this walkway high above the East River from Manhattan to Brooklyn with endless panoramas of the skyscrapers of Wall Street and lower Manhattan along the way. Biking is fun but walking allows for easier stops The walkway is 1.3 miles long and can take 30 minutes to an hour depending on your pace. You’ll get the best views if you start on the Brooklyn side with the city ahead. Stay left (the side closest to the Statue of Liberty) for great souvenir photos of your gang with the skyline as an unforgettable background. The closest subway stops in Brooklyn are York Street on the F line or High Street on the A and C lines – all stops are several blocks from the bridge so be sure the kids are up for a good walk. In Manhattan, the 4, 5, and 6 trains stop at nearby City Hall. Bring water along if the day is warm and try not to choose a breezy day as it’s always windier on the bridge than you expect. Open 24 hours. Free.

6. Central Park

New York’s “back yard” is full of family fun from a carousel and a marionette theater to a zoo that is the perfect size for children. An amazing variety has been packed into this compact zoo, from a tropical rainforest to a sea lion pool to a polar world of penguins. At the separate children’s zoo, little ones can feed sheep and goats and other furry friends. Be sure to see the Delacorte clock just outside the zoo on the hour or half-hour when a parade of whimsical bronze animal musician sculptures plays popular tunes. In winter you can rent ice skates for a whirl on the Wollman Rink and in summer the site becomes the Victorian Garden with slides and rides. Take a walk through the Ramble to discover deep woods and waterfalls in the middle of the city. Every Saturday at 11am from June through September storytelling for ages 6 and up takes place at the Hans Christian Andersen statue near 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue. On weekends, cars are banned and park roads turn into miles of scenic, traffic-free bike paths. Bike rentals for the park are available from 9am to 7pm at 56 West 56th Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues. Open daily during daylight hours.

7. The Highline Park and Walking Path

An abandoned overhead freight railway has been transformed into a remarkable elevated park running roughly from 15th to 34th streets on the city’s far west side. A great stroll, it offers river and city views from a lofty perspective and features lush landscaping that reflects the wild plants that grew up along the neglected railbeds. Along the way are art installations, videos, a place to take off your shoes and wade in an inch-high pool, or to sit back, relax and take it all in. Kids especially enjoy the Pershing Square Beams, specially designed for climbing. Family Festivals with special events are scheduled on many Saturdays; printed family guides can be downloaded on the website . Food and treats are available at several places along the way. A visit can mean a 30 minute walk or can fill several hours. Subway: A, C trains to 14th Street; M14 crosstown bus to 10th Avenue. Open 7am to 11 pm June to September, to 10 pm spring and fall, to 7pm December to March.

8. New York Transit Museum

Housed in a 1936 decommissioned subway station, this museum tells the amazing story of New York’s subways, beginning with how tunnels were dug underground from 1904 to 1927 for the opening of the system. Exhibits continue to follow the construction of the enormous 842 miles of track to the present. Visitors can walk through actual vintage subway cars and see the many kinds of tokens used to enter the subway before the advent of the Metrocard. Another popular interactive exhibit, On the Streets, traces the development of trolley and bus transportation in the city and invites kids to board a 12-seat bus and child-size trolley. Plan to come on weekends when free programs for young visitors are offered every Saturday and Sunday at 1:30pm. The free Grand Central Terminal branch is small but worth a stop for changing exhibits and model train displays. Tuesday – Friday 10am to 4pm. Saturday and Sunday 11am to 5 pm. Closed Mondays and major holidays.

9. New York Hall of Science

Children at this excellent museum are so busy having fun they hardly realize that they are learning. Science, space, sound, light, physics, astronomy, technology, and math are some of the areas explored through 450 hands-on exhibits, demonstrations, films and workshops. Enticing exhibits include Realm of the Atom, The Search for Life Beyond the Earth, Seeing the Light, Hall of Mirrors and Sound Sensations: The Inside Story of Audio. Favorites include the “Build-It” hall downstairs, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Sports Challenge where kids can test their reflexes with activities like jumping, arm wrestling, and wheel chair racing. Preschool Place and an outdoor Science Playground entertain the youngest visitors, and there is a miniature golf course outside. Tips: Avoid New York school holidays when the museum is most crowded and be aware that admission is free on Fridays from 2 to 5pm and Sundays from 10 to 11am. Don’t miss a look at the Great Hall, originally constructed to wow crowds at the 1964 Worlds Fair, with undulating walls that rise 100 feet with no corners or straight segments. April 1 – August 31: Monday – Friday 9:30am – 5pm. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 6pm. September 1 – March 31: Tuesday – Friday 9:30am – 5pm. Saturday & Sunday 10am – 6pm.

10. Dylan’s Candy Bar

Think Candyland come to life, with a giant lollipop tree in the center, candy patterns on the walls and embedded in the stairs. Dylan’s Candy Bar claims to house over 7,000 confections making it one of the largest selections of candies anywhere and enough sweet stuff to satisfy the wildest cravings. Pick up a bag and take your pick from the dozens of bins (you pay by the weight) or choose from the endless array of chocolates and other boxed treats. Pillows, pajamas, and personalized mugs are among dozens of candy-theme souvenirs. Fudge-makers are at work downstairs and upstairs the gigantic sundaes come with three scoops and three toppings. Perfectly Peanut Butter is among several unique choices. While the kids indulge in ice cream parents can relax with a pink cotton candy martini. Sunday: 11am – 9pm. Monday to Thursday: 10am – 9pm. Friday & Saturday: 10am – 11pm.

11. Staten Island Ferry

This 25 minute, five-mile sail is one of the world’s best free rides with unbeatable views of New York harbor, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the skyscrapers and bridges of Lower Manhattan. At the Whitehall Terminal at the tip of Manhattan, a 75-foot-high entry hall greets riders with panoramic views of the downtown Manhattan skyline. On fine days a rooftop viewing deck with benches is an excellent place to go while waiting for the next boat. The closest subway station is South Ferry, served by the 1 and 9 lines. The ferry is basic transportation to Manhattan for residents of Staten Island so avoid morning and evening rush hours when commuters crowd the terminal. This is one city attraction that is quieter on weekends. Departs every half hour.

12. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

The first museum created expressly for children when it was founded in 1899, this museum remains an innovator. Recently doubled in size, the Collections Central area now has room to show off some of the enormous permanent collection of nearly 30,000 objects, from minerals and fossils to a complete skeleton of an Asian elephant to musical instruments, masks and dolls. In Neighborhood Nature kids can get a fish-eye view by crawling in a tunnel inside the pond aquarium, and dig, play and harvest pretend plants in the garden. New World Brooklyn, a world of kid-sized shops, highlights diversity with stores where you can build a lantern for Chinese New Years, make pretend dough at a Mexican Bakery, and create cloth patterns, construct slat chairs or have a go at drumming in a West African emporium. Whether kids choose to be shoppers or play cashier, the International Grocery is a chance to see products from around the world, The only drawback to this terrific museum is the trek to get there. The subway ride from Manhattan takes nearly one hour and any route requires a six or seven block walk from the station. If you have the time and energy, however, it is a worthwhile trip. Tuesday to Sunday 10am – 5pm.

13. Bronx Zoo

Allow a whole day for the largest city zoo in America and home to some 4000 animals. Many of the residents are found in open natural settings. Among many highlights are Tiger Mountain and the Congo Gorilla Forest where glass walls put you close-up to these wondrous animals. The African Plains populated with zebras, giraffes, and lions and the Madagascar exhibit with its acrobatic lemurs are can’t miss sights. At the children’s zoo little ones can climb into a birds nest and feed tame animals. Camel rides and the bug carousel are fun diversions. You can cut down the walking in this enormous zoo with rides by tram or monorail. Special times to arrive are feeding times for lions at 11am and 3pm and for penguins at 3:30pm. A daily calendar lists other special events. Order tickets online to save standing in line and try to schedule this outing on less crowded weekdays. March 23 to November 3: Monday-Friday 10am – 5pm. Weekends & Holidays 10am – 5:30pm. November 4 to April 4: Daily 10am – 4:30pm.

14. Museum of the Moving Image

A former movie and TV studio houses a unique treat, a museum devoted to the development of moving pictures from flip books to the digital age. Parents often are as intrigued as the kids at the chance to see exhibits that tell of the development of film and television cameras, projectors, television sets, video games, and sound recording equipment. Visitors can play vintage arcade and console games and have a variety of interactive experiences like recording a sequence of still photos that can be printed to make a flipbook or creating stop-motion animation that can be saved and emailed to friends. You can dub your voice over dialogue from a film or add sound effects and music. A simulated TV control room is the chance to watch the director call for varying shots to cover a baseball game. Clips from some of the earliest films are displayed and modern films are shown at the museum’s theater. The newest major permanent exhibit features Jim Henson, creator of the Muppets. More than 300 exhibits include storyboards, film and TV clips, costumes and 47 puppets, including favorites like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Big Bird and Elmo. Kids can even have a try at being a puppeteer. The subway ride from Manhattan is about half an hour. Not recommended for toddlers but highly recommended for older children. Wednesday to Thursday: 10:30am – 5pm. Friday: 10:30am – 8pm. Saturday and Sunday: 11:30 am – 7pm.

15. Metropolitan Museum of Art

With exhibits from every period from ancient to contemporary, the country’s largest museum includes galleries with special appeal for families such as the chance to see mummies and explore an Egyptian temple, see life size knights of old in their arms and armor, and marvel at fascinating masks from Africa and Asia. You can plan your visit by downloading a family map and children’s guides or pick up these free materials at the desk when you arrive The guides have titles like Kings, Wings, Mysterious Mummies or Creature Features that help make the museum more fun for kids. Family audio guides are also available. This world-famous museum is often packed with visitors but you can avoid crowds by going during Friday or Saturday evening hours. Buying tickets in advance also helps. Children under 12 are admitted free. M1,2,3, 4 bus to 82nd Street. Sunday to Thursday: 10am – 5:30pm. Friday and Saturday: 10am – 9pm.

16. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Teens, who can be hard to please, usually love this museum. Why? Because they can take endless photos for their Facebook pages with the lifelike wax figures of everyone from Jimmy Fallon to Barack Obama. The themed sections feature superheroes like The Hulk and Spider Man, sports stars including Carmelo Anthony and Derek Jeter, politicians from Abraham Lincoln to Bill Clinton, TV stars like John Hamm, movie idols past and present from Marilyn Monroe to George Clooney. Smaller fry will enjoy seeing Sponge Bob and ET. The Marvel Comics Super Heroes 4D film boasts some great special effects. Buying advance tickets online saves up to 25% off the admission price and this is often a Groupon offering, as well. Late May to early September and holiday periods: 9am – 10pm daily. Rest of year, Sunday to Thursday: 10am – 8pm. Friday – Saturday: 10am – 10pm.

17. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The city views from the boat ride and from Liberty Island are spectacular and standing close-up to the Statue of Liberty is a guaranteed thrill for everyone. For kids who are old enough the climb up the torch is an adventure to cherish. The same boats that go to Liberty Island continue to Ellis Island, a visit recommended for children old enough to appreciate the chance to walk in the footsteps of the millions who came to America from other lands. But be forewarned: Even advance tickets for the Statue of Liberty sell out months in advance, especially tours that include access to the Liberty torch (the highest point you can climb to inside the Statue of Liberty). If you don’t order tickets ahead, arrive very first thing in the morning or be prepared for long ticket lines and waits that can be hours for the timed departures. Boats leave regularly from 8:30am – 5pm. Last boat back departs at 6:45pm.

18. DiMenna Children’s Museum at the New York Historical Society

Children ages 8 to 13 are invited to become history detectives learning about early life in New York through a series of engaging exhibits. Turn a dial to see photos of a street as it was 100 years ago and as it looks today, put your face into a cut-out of George Washington and imagine your own inauguration speech, practice making a cross-stitch like early New Yorkers who had to sew their own clothes, meet the young newsboys who went on strike against the city’s biggest dailies—and won! The library areas is a place to rest, play interactive games, see early children’s books and find current books about the city. The museum offers programs to entertain tykes while older siblings explore. Storytime for ages 4 to 6 is at 11:30 am on Sunday and Songs and Stories for Little New-Yorkers age 3 to 5 takes place on Tuesday and Friday at 3:30 pm. Pay what you wish every Friday 6-8 pm. Tuesday to Thursday and Saturday: 10am – 6pm. Friday: 10am – 8pm. Sunday 11am – 5pm.

19. Children’s Museum of the Arts

This little gem is a hands-on museum inviting families to explore art through intriguing exhibits and the chance to actually experiment with art materials, clay, sound and animation. The Fine Arts Studio is open for everyone to paint, draw, or sculpt a take-home art work and the Clay Bar lets novice sculptors go to work. Check for hours when the Media Lab and Sound Booth are open, places where you can learn how to animate a short film or record a song. Children under five have their own WEE Arts studio and the Ball Pond lets everyone work off excess energy before you leave. Some smocks are available but its best to come dressed in clothes that can take a bit of paint or glue. Be sure to sign up as soon as you arrive for a 35-minute session in the popular Clay Bar and for the day’s special workshop. Pay what you wish on Thursdays from 4 to 6pm. Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 5pm. Monday and Wednesday: 12pm – 5pm. Thursday and Friday: 12pm – 6pm. Closed Tuesday.

20. Max Brenner Chocolate Bar and Restaurant

Temptations abound in this nirvana for chocoholics, a mouth-watering reward for good boys and girls. How about a Chocolate Chunks Pizza made with melted chocolate and topping choices of hazelnuts, bananas, peanut butter, or roasted marshmallows? Or maybe a Cookieshake, white chocolate ganache blended with Oreo cookies and ice? The menu of hot chocolates is amazing along with the O.M.G Chocolate Chunk Cookies, served with whipped cream, berries and melted chocolate. There’s a food menu as well, and the super crunchy mac and cheese gets kudos. But it’s chocolate that makes this worth the trip. Be sure to make a reservation as the dining room is often packed. It can get noisy, crowded, and a little chaotic at peak meal times and on weekends. Monday to Thursday: Sunday: 9am – 12am. Friday and Saturday: 9am – 2am.

21. Chelsea Piers

Children who dutifully trudge through sightseeing deserve a reward. At Chelsea Piers, once defunct piers on the Hudson River have been transformed into a 27-acre riverfront sports complex that can be a welcome break. Activities include a bowling alley and indoor ice skating in winter and a summer skate park. The Field House, which serves many leagues and classes, offers a selection of Drop-In Programs for its facilities between scheduled sessions. These include batting cages, soccer fields, basketball courts, a gymnastics area, and a rock wall. Children age 4 and under have their own indoor play area. Call to find out what is available on the day you want to visit. The 23RD Street crosstown bus headed west brings you right to the entry. Hours vary with seasons: phone 212-336-6100 to check.

22. The New Victory Theater

New York’s first major theater devoted entirely to family entertainment offers troupes from around the world presenting a changing array of plays, circus acts, dancing, puppets, and surprises. Arrive an hour early for Arts Express, pre-performance hands-on activities inspired by what is on stage. “Try This” in the lower lobbies gives the chance to engage with props and design elements from the current show. Some performances have “talk-backs” where the audience has the chance to ask questions of the performers. Many workshops are scheduled with the artists teaching performance skills from puppetry to circus arts to hip hop. These are mostly for ages seven and up though there are a few for ages four to seven. Check the web site for upcoming performances and programs – each listing indicates the recommended ages.

TIP: New York City for Families If you’re in NYC with children then the New York City Explorer Pass is a great deal. The pass allows free access to the Empire State Building, the Museum of Natural History, The MET, the Statue of Liberty, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, the Top of the Rock Observatory, and many more top attractions. It’s a great way to save money.

23. Lower East Side Tenement Museum

A restored actual tenement building gives a rare chance to experience what brave immigrant newcomers actually faced in their confusing new world from 1863 to 1935. Most of these immigrants came from Ireland, Italy and Eastern Europe. The recently restored addition at 103 Orchard, the building housing the museum shop, brings the story up to the 1970s, adding the stories of Holocaust survivors and Chinese and Puerto Rican arrivals. Among the many tours offered, families will most enjoy interactive sessions where costumed interpreters represent past residents, from countries Though many tours are recommended for age eight and up, the museum says youngsters as young as five can appreciate the Victoria Confino tour, visiting the apartment of a Greek Sephardic family and meeting 14-year-old “Victoria” who lived in this tenement in 1916. Visitors can also play-act, taking the role of new arrivals and asking questions about life on the Lower East Side. Children are allowed to handle the household objects. Tours are popular and may sell out, so reserve ahead on line or by phone to avoid waits and disappointment All tours meet at the Visitor Center at 103 Orchard Street. The Center has an excellent selection of New York City souvenirs. Walking tours of the neighborhood are available, as well. For help selecting the activities best suited for your family, phone 877-975-3786 Subways: B,D to Grand Street, F to Delancey Street, J/M/X to Essex Street. M15 bus to Grand and Allen streets. 10am to 6:30pm daily, Thursday to 8:30pm

24. Brooklyn Bridge Park

This still-growing 84 acre park covering 1.3 miles between the Dumbo and Brooklyn Heights neighborhoods has transformed Brooklyn’s East River waterfront. A former industrial space and decaying piers have become a world of gardens, promenades and bike paths with spectacular views of the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges and the New York skyline. The park has activities galore. Pier 2 offers courts for basketball, handball, bocce, shuffleboard and hopscotch, as well as a roller skating rink. Pier 4 is a sandy beach with a boat launch. Pier 6 has a volleyball court. Pier 3 is reserved for quiet walks and reading. Several playgrounds are located around the park and an old fashioned carousel awaits near the Dumbo entrance. The pleasantest and most direct way from Manhattan is by boat. Ferries run from 39th Street and the East River, Water Taxis from 39th Street on the river. By subway, choices include the A or C train to High Street, F train to York Street, 2 or 3 to Clark Street, 4 or 5 to Borough Hall. All these stops require a 10-15 minute walk to reach the park. Piers open 6am to 11pm, playgrounds open dawn to dusk.

25. The Cloisters and Ft. Tryon Park

There’s a fairy tale quality to this medieval castle high on a hill overlooking the Hudson River. The late John D. Rockefeller, Jr donated the land and the building, which holds his incomparable collection of medieval art. To make this art more fun for children. make a game of searching for the heroes, saints and fanciful figures like unicorns to be found in the tapestries, paintings and glowing stained glass windows. On many Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m. free family workshops for ages 4 to 12 cover topics such as Robes and Regalia, pointing out what heroes wore from monks’ robes to knights’ armor, or Looking at Shapes, showing how medieval artists used familiar forms like circles, squares, and triangles. Check for workshop dates. Fort Tryon Park surrounding The Cloisters is a treat, with soaring views along its promenades and terraces, plus playgrounds and eight miles of paths, many of them meandering through woodland. To reach the Cloisters, take the A train to 190th Street, a 30-minute ride from midtown, then a ten minute walk through the park or one stop north on the M4 bus. The M4 runs all the way from midtown, about an hour’s ride. Daily 10am to 5:15pm March through October, rest of year to 4:45pm.

26. Coney Island & the New York Aquarium

Come for the sea breezes along the 2 ½-mile boardwalk, the surf, the rides, the arcades, the legendary hot dogs at the original Nathan’s, and a visit to the growing New York Aquarium. A great family day is guaranteed! The Luna Park amusement center boasts classic rides like the 1918 Wonder Wheel and the 1927 Cyclone roller coaster along with plenty of state of the art scream new machines and gentle thrills for little ones including a carousel. It would be worth the trip just for the New York Aquarium and its spectacular newest exhibit, Ocean Wonders: Sharks. Enter through a clear 40-foot tunnel with creatures from the Great Barrier Reef swimming right beside you on both sides and overhead as well. The exhibit offers 18 kinds of sharks along with rays, skates, sea turtles—some 115 fascinating species in all. There’s a daily sea lion show in the Aquatheater as well. Baseball fans can add a game at the friendly, affordable MCU Park, home of the Brooklyn Cyclones, a New York Mets farm team. And there are fireworks every Friday night in summer. Subway: F, D, Q or N to Stillwell Avenue, about 45 minutes from midtown. Aquarium entry: Late May to early September, Monday to Friday 10am-5pm, Saturday Sunday, 10am-5:30pm; rest of year, last entry at 3:30pm.

27. Paley Center for Media

Almost every TV show ever filmed can be viewed at this center which boasts an archive of more than 150,000 TV shows, radio broadcasts and commercials. Visitors have their own TV consoles and ear phones and can call up favorites past and present, from I Love Lucy to early Sesame Street. , This is an entertaining nostalgia trip for all ages, and a favorite for teens old enough to remember the old shows. Curators have compiled intriguing Top Ten lists of classics including The Beatles, Seinfeld, Nickelodeon, the Olympics. Super Bowl ads and Halloween specials. Themed screenings take place.in the downstairs theater and personal appearances are often featured. Recently the cast of Veep and Anthony Bourdain have appeared. Wednesday-Sunday 12pm to-6pm.

28. New York City Fire Museum

This spectacular collection of historic fire engines and equipment from the late 18th century to the present tells the story of firefighting from the days of bucket brigades to hand pumps, horse drawn steam engines to high-tech fire boats. The accessories are fun to see, as well; who knew that some firemen once wore top hats to work? The enormous, shiny fire wagons of old will wow all ages and everyone can enjoy the fun of posing for souvenir snaps in firemen’s coats and hats, available in sizes from toddlers to grownups. Prepare for plenty of temptations in the gift shop. A moving memorial gallery to the firefighters lost at the World Trade Center in 2001 is tactfully set apart so that families can decide whether they wish to visit. Occasional special events for children include coloring contests, Easter egg hunts and a kids’ Halloween party. Check the web site for schedules. The museum is housed in a 1904 triple bay firehouse with its sliding doors, brass sliding pole and winding staircase intact. To round out the day, the Children’s Museum of the Arts is just a few blocks away. Open daily 10am to 5pm.

29. Battery Park City

For a peaceful afternoon and a look at a different side of New York, head for this newest waterfront neighborhood, begun in the 1960s partially on landfill created from the building of the original World Trade Center, and mostly completed by 2011. The 92-acre complex, now home to some 10,000 residents, offers miles of beautifully landscaped, art-studded paths for strolling or biking with peerless State of Liberty views as well as parks and playgrounds with many activities for children. The two residential sections are centered by Brookfield Place (formerly known as the World Financial Center) an office complex with many shops and dining places and a big, tranquil outdoor terrace overlooking a marina of sleek yachts and sailboats. Rockefeller Park at the north end of the area, has basketball and handball courts, swings and a Parkhouse with ping pong and billiards tables, a play kitchen and toys, games and play equipment free to borrow from May through October. The waterside walkways continue to Battery Park and beyond. .1/2/3 or A/C to Chambers Street. Walk west along Chambers and cross the West Side Highway into BPC.

30. Chinatown

Noisy, crowded, and utterly fascinating, Chinatown makes for a colorful stroll and tasty dining. Start on Canal Street where food stands are stacked with mysterious vegetables and dried foods, and all manner of seafood shimmering on beds of ice. Turn onto Mott Street, the main artery, for a sampling of lures like chopstick shops, bakeries beckoning with cookies and soft buns filled with roasted pork or beef, and souvenir stands selling slippers, back scratchers, dolls, toys, and bamboo plants, which the Chinese consider good luck. Buy a mini-stalk to take a little luck back home. Stop into the Eastern States Buddhist Temple at #64 to see offerings piled high on altars and over 100 golden Buddha gleaming in the candlelight. Turn left to Bayard Street for the Chinatown Ice Cream Factory’s unique homemade flavors. Stay on Bayard to Columbus Park for a playground and the chance to see residents practicing Tai Chi. Then return to Mott and choose among the many restaurants for a final Chinese treat. One caveat: the crowds and commotion may not be ideal for young children and there is little room for strollers. Take the 6, N or R trains to Canal Street.

31. Nintendo World

Paradise for fans of Wii or Nintendo games, this store offers the chance to try out all the newest games and find a host of unique souvenirs, including hard-to-find plush characters. The second floor is a mini-museum displaying every console and character ever created, a great nostalgia trip for older kids (and many parents). The “ambassadors” around the floor all are enthusiasts who seem to enjoy showing visitors around and teaching how to use various devices. Fans line up outside for product introduction days and to see life-size costumed favorite characters like Mario or Pikachu when they appear for photo ops. Check the web site for dates. It’s all free, but guaranteed you won’t leave without a purchase. Monday-Thursday, 9am to 8pm; Friday, Saturday 9am to 9pm; Sunday 11am-7pm.

32. Best Bowling Alleys for Kids

When the weather is too hot, too cold, or too rainy, New York’s bowling alleys are great escapes for family fun. Many of these swank, state-of-the-art facilities become singles hangouts after dark, when age restrictions are the rule, but all welcome families during the day. Frames Bowling Lounge (550 Ninth Avenue between 40th and 41st Streets, 212-268-6909) in the Port Authority Bus Terminal offers family packages Monday through Saturday before 5pm, and all day Sundays. They include two hours of bowling, shoe rentals, arcade games, a pizza-chicken bites platter and drinks. Bowlmor Times Square (22 West 44th Street between Seventh and Eighth Avenues, 212-680-0012) features 50 lanes in seven NYC-themed lounges, from Chinatown to Central Park. Advance reservations are suggested.at this popular midtown spot. The Bowlmor at Chelsea Piers (Pier 60, 23rd St and West Side Highway, 212-835-2695) is smaller and less crowded and offers an arcade, a small laser tag arena and an aerial ropes course for children 48 inches and up. Lucky Strike Lanes and Lounge (624–660 West 42nd Street, 646-829-0170) adds billiard tables to the fun and a nice food selections like burgers of the month, tacos, and wings. Rates are lower Monday to Wednesday.

33. Museum of Modern Art (MOMA)

The world’s largest collection of modern art and sculpture is housed in a striking contemporary glass building with soaring sightlines that families will enjoy as they escalate from floor to floor. The chance to see iconic paintings such as Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Salvador Dali’s melting watch in The Persistence of Memory and Pablo Picasso’s Three Musicians certainly merits a visit. The problem for families is the size of this museum, which can seem overwhelming. A wise approach is pre-visit research to decide which of the many galleries will most appeal and to locate the don’t-miss paintings. (You can also buy tickets in advance .) Art activity cards and gallery games to make the most of the visit can be picked up at the museum or downloaded in advance. MOMA also offers many Saturday and Sunday morning family tours and hands-on art programs divided by age, for 4-year-olds, ages 5 to 10 and tweens ages 11 to 14. Most programs meet at the Cullman Education and Research Building, 4 West 54th Street, with registration beginning online ten days in advance. Check schedules on-line and time your visit for these free events if possible. The lovely sculpture garden outside is a nice break if kids grow weary. Daily 10:30am to 5:30pm, Friday to 8pm Free admission ages 10 and under, free for all Friday 4pm-8pm.

34. Guggenheim Museum

It’s hard to imagine a museum more intriguing to children than this Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece where the “galleries” are a spiraling ramp with art on one side and amazing views from floor to domed ceiling on the other. The Guggenheim’s permanent collection, especially known for its Kandinsky paintings, is not always on view but temporary exhibits are usually intriguing and there is always a trove of masters like Picasso, Cezanne, Renoir, and Monet on display in the Thannhauser Collection galleries off the main ramp. If schedules allow, plan to visit on the second Sunday each month when family tours are held at 10:30am and hands on workshops take place at 1pm. You can buy tickets in advance or there’s pay what you wish Saturday 5:45pm-7:45pm. Friday-Wednesday 10am to 5:45pm, Saturday to 7:45pm. Closed Thursday.

35. Sports Arena Tours

Sports fans will find action year round in New York at arenas that are as exciting as their teams. Some are iconic, like Yankee Stadium , home to baseball’s winningest team, and Madison Square Garden Tour , where the basketball Knicks and Liberty and hockey Ranger teams play. There are exceptional newer venues, as well including the glistening Barclays Arena (tours unavailable, at present), host to Nets basketball and Islanders hockey, and retro Citi Field where the Mets play baseball and the food stands get rave reviews. It is exciting to be part of the cheering crowd, but these arenas are fun to see even when the teams are not in action and all offer behind-the-scenes guided tours. Each tour is unique, but you can expect to go on the field or the court, visit locker rooms and dugouts, see the exclusive VIP boxes, and tour the teams’ halls of fame. Tour times vary with seasons and schedules. Check web sites for current schedules.

36. New York City Ballet

The New York City Ballet, one of the world’s great companies, dances at Lincoln Center in fall, winter and spring with many programs that are ideal for families. During the holiday season, George Balanchine’s beautiful, whimsical Nutcracker is a traditional treat for generations of New York families. Classics like Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia with its dolls come to life and A Midsummer Night’s Dream and its dancing donkey are great introductions to this art. The ballet also has special performances introducing children to ballet and many inexpensive 45-minute workshops on weekends for children ages 5 to 8 and 9 to 12 where participants actually learn steps from professional dancers. Workshops are usually held before family-friendly matinees and are great introductions to the performance. The season is usually mid-September through October, late November through December, mid-January through February and mid-April through May.

37. South Street Seaport

Working shops and classic ships help tell the story of the days when this area was a bustling port, its piers crowded with ships from around the world, bringing trade that helped build a thriving New York and the growing United States. Start at the museum for interpretive displays and the ongoing exhibition, Millions:Migrants and Millionaires aboard the Great Liners. Then head for the “street of ships, Pier 16 at John Street where several vintage vessels are docked. Two may be toured, the 1907 lighthouse ship Ambrose, and the 1886 Wavertree, the cargo ship that is the flagship of the fleet, fresh from a 13-million-dollar restoration. From May through October, visitors can actually go for a sail on the Pioneer, an 1885 four-masted schooner, and help hoist the sails. The Bowne Printshop at 207-211 Water Street, is the chance to see demonstrations of early letterpress printing and examples of 19th century crafts such as woodcarving. The rest of the Seaport area is a collection of shops, and restaurants with wonderful water views. Much of the action is at recently renovated pier 17, which features musical entertainment on the rooftop. There’s also a very upscale multi-screen cinema serving food and drinks to movie goers. Take subways 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, or Z to Fulton Street walk east towards the river for about 10 minutes. The M15 bus stops right at the Seaport on Fulton Street. Wednesday to Sunday, 11am to 7pm; Bowne Printshop open daily 11am to 7pm.

38. Governors Island National Monument

An inexpensive 10-minute ferry ride brings you to this former U.S. military base, an important part of the system of early forts designed to guard New York City. When the base closed in 2006, some 22 acres of the 172-acre site because a National Monument offering wide open spaces, gardens, bike and walking paths with city views and an interesting slice of history. National Park Service Rangers-lead tours that include Castle Williams, the first American circular fortification ever built, and the star-shaped Fort Jay, which has served over time as fort, music school, and prison for Confederate prisoners. Weekends bring special events from art shows to concerts. The rest of the island is in the midst of development that by 2017 will include The Hills, a 10-acre park where man-made mounds from 25 to 70 feet high will offer climbers peerless perspectives. There will be a shortcut to the top for children, and one mound called Slide Hill will have four slides down, sure to be a kids’ favorite. Bike rentals and food are available on the island. Open Memorial Day to end of September. Ferries leave Marine Maritime Terminal in lower Manhattan 10am to 4pm weekdays to 5:30 p.m. weekends and holidays.

39. Gulliver’s Gate

The wonders of five continents, all in miniature, await at this unusual attraction near Times Square. From the Great Wall of China to the Swiss Alps, the Taj Mahal to the Pyramids, there are some 967 buildings and myriad moving cars, trains, and planes in a model-train scale display that covers 50,000 square feet. Destinations include Russia, the Middle East, Latin America, Asia, New England, and New York. It took 16 model makers over a year just to create the lavish New York City replicas. Kids especially like the Gulliver’s Gate Key, given to visitors to activate moving parts throughout the exhibit. Look carefully to find whimsical details like a couple kissing, New York firefighters rescuing a cat in a tree or a group of tourists with a rope vainly trying to straighten the Leaning Tower of Pisa. For a fee, you can scan yourself to create a 3-D model to be placed in the display. Go online to book and look for discount offers to save on the rather steep admission fee. Open Daily 10am-8pm.

40. Bryant Park

This popular green oasis right behind the New York Public Library between 5th and 6th avenues is fun for families year round. Activities include a putting green, ping pong, petanque, a stocked reading room, an art cart with supplies, and table games like chess and backgammon. Younger visitors will find arts and crafts sessions, story time, and rides on Le Carousel. Lessons might be offered in juggling, fencing, yoga or Tai chi, and there is frequent musical entertainment. In winter there’s ice skating, with a holiday bazaar in November and December. Only the carousel and skate rentals have a fee. This is also a fine spot if all you want to do is find a quiet corner to relax, have a sandwich, and/or find a pleasant clean restroom in the heart of the city. Hours: 7am-12am; most activities, 11am-8pm.

41. National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey

This unexpected new attraction amid Broadway’s theater marquees is a spectacular introduction to ocean life. Using the latest animated technology and National Geographic’s superb photography, it is a simulated underwater journey from Australia to the Pacific Coast that seems to immerse you, allowing amazing close-up views of ocean life without ever getting wet. Among the highlights are a kelp forest maze, the chance to experience ocean life at night, and a spectacular finale showing sharks, sea lion, dolphins, and all manner of sea life at home in the sea. (The Humboldt squid attack is not for the faint-hearted!) The visit ends in Exploration Hall, with simulated interviews with the photographers in diving gear who captured these scenes, as well as holograms, learning games, and lessons on the importance of conservation. This is a unique experience for older children but with one caveat: the whole encounter only takes about an hour and the tickets are expensive. Be sure to check the internet for any available discounts. Sunday-Thursday 10am to 9pm, Friday, Saturday, 9am to 10pm.

42. Choco Story New York

This introduction to chocolate (with tastings!) will please anyone with a sweet tooth. The self-guided visit is housed in a building adjoining the spacious shop of Jacque Torres, one of New York’s leading chocolatiers. It includes a film showing the commercial process from tree to treat followed by two live demonstrations. The first, showing the traditional Mayan way of making cocoa by hand, gives the chance to see close-up the big pods that must be split to get at the chocolate beans, and how they were dried, ground into a powder, and boiled with water to make a beverage. The taste is not as sweet as the cocoa we know but a little added sugar goes a long way. The tour highlight is the making of bon bons. Guests see how chocolate blocks are blended with butter and sugar and heated to just the right temperature to be poured into trays of small molds and cooled to make a scrumptious shell. The shells are filled with the melted confection and chilled once again. Finished candies are on hand and unlimited tastes are allowed! All of this takes only 30 to 45 minutes, but those who plan ahead can add classes; Cookie Decorating for 3 to 7 year olds, and Make Your Own Mediants for older children. For little ones who can’t sit through demonstrations, there is a play area with a sand pit and a play kitchen. Check the web site for class and demo schedules. Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.

43. Best NYC Book Stores for Kids

Even as bookstores continue to dwindle, New York still boasts several really great children’s book stores, good for whiling away a peaceful hour or two and for a special selection of books to take home. Books of Wonder (18 West 18th Street, 212-989-3270) celebrated its 35th birthday in 2015 as a delightful source of new children’s literature as well as rare collectible children’s books and a selection of book-oriented art and posters. The store features story hours for young readers every Saturday and Sunday morning and many author events where older children can meet their favorite writers. The well-stocked Book Culture (114th Street and Broadway, 646-402-3000) has three locations in the Columbia University neighborhood and another more convenient store on Columbus Avenue between 81st and 82nd Street, (450 Columbus Avenue, 212-595-1962). Story hours are scheduled here every Tuesday and Saturday at 11am. The Broadway store devotes the entire downstairs to a Children’s Reading Room, open from 10am to 8pm daily and an ideal spot for a rainy afternoon.

44. Best Skating Rinks for Kids

Skating amidst the skyscrapers is a big city winter pleasure in New York, where many scenic outdoor ice skating rinks beckon. The Rink at Rockefeller Center is famed, so much so that online advance reservations are strongly advised. The numbers are kept at 150 to avoid crowding and there is often a waiting line (212-332-7655). Not far away at Bryant Park’s Winter Village , skating is free (though you’ll have to pay for rental skates and helmets (212-768-4242). Central Park has two fine public rinks: The Wollman Rink (212-439-6900) near the 59th Street and Fifth Avenue entrance is popular and you might consider splurging for a VIP reservation package to avoid waits. The Lasker Rink between 106th and 108th streets is less convenient so less crowded (917-492-3856). Downtown, the Rink at Brookfield Place (the former World Financial Center, 212-417-2445) is even bigger than the Rockefeller Center space and another option awaits at Fulton and Front Streets in front of South Street Seaport (212-732-825). If you don’t want to brave the cold (or the summer heat), you can skate indoors year-round at the Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers (212-336-6100). Most rinks open mid-October to mid-November, close early to late March. Check individual listings for dates and hours.

45. Queens County Farm Museum

For a taste of country in the city, take a trip to Floral Park and the 47-acre Queens County Farm Museum. a 300-year living history of farming. The restored Adriance Farmhouse was built as a three-room Dutch farmhouse in 1772. The surrounding 7-acre historic area shows the changes from a colonial homestead to a truck farm that served a growing city in the early twentieth century. The historic outbuildings, orchards, fields of crops, vineyard, and an herb garden bring history to life and the kids will love seeing the cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and hens at home in the barnyards. Farmhouse tours and hayrides are offered every weekend and a host of special events like sheep shearing and a corn maize keep things lively. In mid-September visitors can take in the Queens County Fair, an old-fashioned event with corn husking and pie-eating contests, pig races, hayrides, livestock competitions and midway rides. The easiest way to get there is by car, about a 35 minute drive from midtown. The Long Island Railroad is another option. The ride from Penn station to Floral Park takes 37-minutes, and cabs waiting at the Floral Park station will take you to the site for around $10. Open daily 10am to 5pm.

46. Liberty Science Center

An excursion across the river to Jersey City leads to this big imaginative, interactive museum that will engage kids of all age. Dual-level exhibits like Skyscraper let everyone learns what it takes to design tall buildings. Then older kids can walk a high steel girder (wearing safety vests) and enter a wind tunnel, while little ones build with blocks and stack them using a magnetic mini-crane. Other popular exhibits include the da Vinci surgical robot trying the kind of simulators used by surgeons, the Lightning Show, the Touch Tunnel, and the Infinity Climber, a suspended enclosed multi story play space for climbing and crawling through paths suspended high overhead. Several exhibits are designed for younger visitors. The museum is located in Liberty State Park, with playgrounds and picnic areas and rentals of bikes and Segways to enjoy paths with Hudson River and New York skyline views. Statue of Liberty ferries can be boarded here, as well. Get here by car or take the Liberty Landing Ferry from Brookfield Place to the park, where a 20-minute walk leads to the museum. Or take Path trains to Exchange Place and transfer to the Bergen-Hudson light rail. Tuesday to Friday 9am-4pm, Saturday, Sunday 9am-5pm.

47. Modern Pinball NYC

There’s a ton of fun packed inside this small store-front dedicated to the era when games meant going to the nearest pinball game arcade. A ticket gives unlimited play for one, two, or three hours on some two dozen classic machines that line the walls. The choices range from Shreck, Asteroids, and Star Wars and to Slugfest Baseball and Game of Thrones. All come with flashing lights and sound effects; Beatlemania even features songs and photos of the Fab Four in their heyday. It’s a nostalgia trip for some but for kids and teens used to video games, it’s an introduction to a time when you had to get more actively involved in games, and they love it. Step stools are provided for smaller players. Also billed as a museum, Modern Pinball has an educational component: a transparent machine with all its pulleys, gears, motors and magnets visible – pull the control knob and watch what makes the game go. School field trips have visited for a lesson in science, math, and mechanics. If you fall in love with one of the machines, they’ll be happy to sell it to you. Subway: 6,N,R to 28th Street. M102, 103 bus to 26th Street. Daily 11am-midnight.

48. FAO Schwarz

It was good news for families when this ultimate toy store came back to life with new headquarters in Rockefeller Plaza behind the skating rink. It is filled with an almost overwhelming selection of toys both familiar and unique and a stuffed animal menagerie like no other. Parents should likely be prepared to be wheedled into at least one purchase, but there are many changing amusements that are free, like watching magic tricks, filling a shopping cart with play food, learning how to make a boomerang work, building a railroad track, steering a car, seeing science experiments, and playing a tune on the store’s famous walk-on piano. For those willing to invest, youngsters can design their own racing car; choosing their own color, shape, and tire type. Kids can have hair streaked or nails painted. If you buy a baby doll, that can visit the store “pediatrician.” There’s a branch of Build-A-Bear Workshop in the store and the whole rear space is a candy emporium. The store is absolutely packed on weekends, especially in the afternoon, so it’s best to try visiting on quieter weekdays or mornings. Subway: D,F to 50th Street. Bus: M5 to 50th Street. Monday-Tuesday 10am-8pm, Wednesday-Thursday 10am-9pm, Friday-Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 10am-7pm.

The Best Playgrounds in New York City

Pier 25 , Hudson River Park Union Square Park . Lots of fun, new, and interesting equipment. Central Park has 21 different playgrounds. The Ancient Playground, Billy Johnson Playground, Diana Ross Playground, and Tarr Family Playground are the among the favorites. Madison Square Park . There’s a Shake Shack (burgers, fries, shakes) in the middle of the park. Silver Towers Playground is the closest playground to Times Square.

About Santorini Dave

45 Places to Discover with this 4 Day NYC Itinerary

As one of the top destinations in the U.S., New York City exudes nonstop energy and is a must-do for teens. In a city that never slows down, travel lessons abound, like navigating public transportation. Pack some comfy walking shoes since NYC offers urban trekking at its finest. I lived in NYC for two years, though I didn’t introduce my kids to the metropolis until they could walk all day without whining. Find everything from Top museums to parks and shopping to snacking. New York City offers a week of fun with teens in this NYC 4 Day Itinerary.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do With NYC 4 Day Itinerary

Statue of liberty  and ellis island, castle clinton and battery park, wall  st. and federal hall, 9/11 memorial and museum , top of the rock and rockefeller center, museum of modern art–moma, st. patrick’s cathedral , grand central teminal , a broadway show, times square, american museum of natural history , central park, roosevelt island tram , chelsea market , high line park, scenic cruise, intrepid sea air & space museum, the metropolitan museum of art , a baseball game, day one downtown manhattan with kids.

Start at the southern tip of Manhattan and see the oldest part of New York City first. Catch a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and see some of the best views. A must for families along with most visitors to NYC.

Tip: All the destinations are walkable so put on the walking shoes and grab a bottle of water to explore. An umbrella and a rain jacket are great additions to your backpack too.

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island – First Stop

New york city harbor, admission starts at $24.50 and $12 for kids.

How to get there: Depart your hotel and grab some breakfast before heading south to the southern tip of Manhattan at Battery Park. Use the MTA subway stop at Whitehall St/South Ferry on the 1 or the R train.

Make the effort and visit the Statue of Liberty, especially if you are traveling with kids. When I lived in NYC I never visited it. Instead, I opted to take the Staten Island Ferry to see it from the water. Don’t make my mistake.

As a symbol of freedom and liberty known worldwide, the Statue of Liberty sits on a 12-acre island in the middle of New York Harbor. Learn about its construction in the museum under the pedestal. Then climb the stairs to the top of the pedestal or head to the crown to capture views of downtown Manhattan (additional tickets required). Take lots of pictures and stand at the base and look up at her in wonder.

Separate reservations are required for Pedestal Access and Crown Access. Depending on the time of the year, these reservations sell out months in advance.

Operated by Statue Cruises, the ferry departs from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. Explore the Statue of Liberty first then re-board the ferry to tour Ellis Island, an additional stop. The first ferry leaves at 9:00 a.m., and the last one departs at 3:00 p.m. with extended hours during peak seasons.

Tickets start at $24.50 for adults and $12 for kids 4 to 12 with discounts for seniors. Ferry tickets are required for everyone.

Statue Cruises also operates a Statue of Liberty Ferry from New Jersey.

Ellis Island

From 1892 until 1954, Ellis Island welcomed 12 million immigrants to the United States. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum walks visitors through the facility that processed close to 5,000 people a day.

Concessions are available at the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island Museum or grab some to-go before boarding the ferry.

To tour both islands, give yourself the morning. Reservations are a must, and book months in advance for the pedestal tour and six months in advance for the crown tour. A Junior Ranger Booklet is available. All passengers will go through airport-style security screening.

Top National Park Sites in NYC

Castle Clinton and Battery Park – Second Stop

Battery park open seven days a week from 7:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. free.

After disembarking the Statue Cruises ferry, explore the Castle Clinton National Monument for more immigration history, located steps from the ferry dock. For war buffs in the family, it’s also a fort from the War of 1812 with antique cannons. Junior Ranger booklets are available.

SeaGlass Carousel

After the history lesson, walk over to the newest carousel in New York City, SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park. Built in 2015, visitors can hop on a fish to whirl around the pavilion to classical music. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., weather permitting. Admission is $5.50 per person.

Top Sites for Walking Tour of Lower Manhattan

Charging bull and fearless girl, trinity church, new york stock exchange, federal hall, 9/11 memorial.

Walk up Broadway from Battery Park, a quick .5-mile walk, to take some selfies at the Charging Bull Statue , though Fearless Girl has been moved, Broadway at Morris St.

Continue up Broadway and walk by Trinity Church , located at 75 Broadway at Wall St. The first church was built in 1698 and rebuilt two times. A notable building from the American Revolution and people fleeing the 9/11 attacks found shelter in the church from falling debris.

Next walk by the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), at 11 Wall St., unfortunately tours aren’t available so grab another picture. In front, find Fearless Girl, the statue depicting a 4-foot tall girl urging more women on corporate boards.

I would pick either the Federal Hall National Monument or the 9/11 Museum to tour, depending on interest and time.

Best Museums in New York City

Federal Hall National Monument – Fourth Stop

Federal hall national monument 26 wall street open monday through friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. free.

Federal Hall served as the first Capitol of the United States, the Supreme Court and the Executive Branch offices. George Washington took the oath of office as the first President of the United States at Federal Hall as well.

Junior Ranger booklets are available. There is an interpretive film shown as well.

Located at 26 Wall Street, Federal Hall’s visitor center is at the Pine Street entrance. It’s open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. During the summer, it’s open Saturdays as well. Free to enter,

To get to the 9/11 Memorial, head north from Federal Hall to Cedar St. Walk a couple of blocks west to Greenwich Street then take a right. The memorial is in the following block.

9/11 Memorial and Museum – Fifth Stop

180 greenwich st., open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., 9/11 museum, open wednesday to monday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closed tuesday), admission starts at $21, 6 and under free.

How to get there: For the 9/11 Memorial, head north from Federal Hall to Cedar St. Walk a couple of blocks west to Greenwich Street then take a right. The memorial is in the following block.

As a former American Airlines flight attendant who lived through that horrific day, I visit the 9/11 Memorial to remember my former colleagues. The memorial is a somber space that gives visitors a place to reflect.

For visitors with more time, reserve tickets to the 9/11 Museum , located steps from the memorial. It uses artifacts from the World Trade Center and actual recordings of emergency calls. Touring the museum is an emotional experience though the area around the WTC has recovered, experiencing a rebirth.

Adult admission is $33, students (13 to 17 and college students) are $27 and kids (7 to 12) are $21.

Tip: Please be respectful of other visitors at the Memorial and Museum. Advance reservations are required.

Time to eat so head to a downtown NYC icon.

Top Things to Do in Lower Manhattan

Dinner at Katz’s Delicatessen – Sixth Stop

Katz’s delicatessen 205 e. houston st., open 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. monday to thursday, 24 hours from friday at 8 a.m. until sunday at 11 p.m..

How to get there: Walk east along Cortlandt St. to the MTA Fulton St. Station for the Brooklyn-bound J train (it will be headed north). Exit the Essex St. Station and walk north along Essex Street to 205 E. Houston St.

Katz’s Delicatessen is an NYC icon. The pastrami-on-rye sandwiches are pricey, but I ordered half and got a bowl of Matzo ball soup. This location is as original as it gets, with locals dining alongside the travelers.

Tip: You can order at the counter and seat yourself or sit at a table with table service. Don’t lose the paper ticket the waiter gives you, you will have to hand it to the person working the door.

Time for dessert so walk to Little Italy.

Dessert in Little Italy – Seventh Stop

Ferrara italian bakery, 195 grand st., open sunday to thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., friday and saturday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. how to get there: from katz’s deli, walk south on orchard st. for two blocks until grand st. and head west eight blocks (about half a mile)..

Stop at Ferrara Italian Bakery for a cappuccino and cannoli fix with table service. Or grab a gelato on the street and walk around Little Italy as it sparkles at night.

Time to head back to your hotel so grab one of the three MTA Subways at Canal Street with service on the N , 6 , Q , Z trains.

50 Places to Eat in NYC with Kids

Day Two – Exploring Midtown and the Theatre District

Fill up your culture tank and head to Midtown.  Midtown offers all the big city thrills one expects from a trip to NYC. Wear walking shoes, and the Broadway shows that appeal to families and don’t require dressy outfits.

Rockefeller Center and Plaza– First Stop

Rockefeller center 45 rockefeller plaza free, tours additional admission.

How to get there: After breakfast near the hotel, take the MTA subway D or F and exit the 47-50 th St./Rockefeller Center Stop.

Developed by the Rockefeller family, it’s a complex of buildings and outdoor space in Midtown. In addition to the buildings, find a summertime cafe and a wintertime ice skating rink. Inside and out find quick service food outlets and shopping like the LEGO store. One of the top activities is checking out the NYC skyline for the observation tower.

Top of the Rock

Admission starts at $34, open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. with seasonal hours.

After a quick elevator ride, explore three different floors all with incredible views. With the best views of Central Park, this is also the best way to see landmarks like the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building.

Reserved timed entry tickets are required to the Top of the Rock. It offers several different packages, like VIP. Adult admission ranges from $40 to $55, and kids (6 to 12) are $34 to $49. Tickets are based on demand pricing.

Radio City Music Hall

Admissionstarts at $29, open tuesday to saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m..

You can tour the legendary theater and home to the Rockettes . After the Top of the Rock tour, stay at Rockefeller Center and tour Radio City Music Hall. Art Deco theater features rich architectural details from a bygone era along with some of Bob Mackie’s Rockettes costumes.

This 60-minute tour goes behind the scenes, and tourgoers will meet a Rockette.

Adult admission is $33, and kids, students, and seniors are $29. Reservations are recommended.

If it’s time to feed the kids I recommend grabbing a bite at Rockefeller Center. Between the Plaza and the concourse level, I found close to 30 different places to eat.

Museum of Modern Art MoMA — Second Stop

11 w. 53th st. open from daily10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., 7 p.m. on saturdays. admission for adults, kids under 16 free. timed entry reservations required.

How to get there: From Rockefeller Center, walk .5-mile north along 5 th or 6 th Avenues to the MoMA, located at 11 W. 53th St.

With a city full of the best art museums in the U.S. where should you start? I suggest the Museum of Modern Art or MoMA.

If your kids have short attention spans, head straight for the Fifth Floor. That’s where I found Starry Night by Vincent Van Gogh, Dance by Henri Matisse, along with works from Andy Warhol, Frida Kahlo, and Pablo Picasso.

Adult admission is $28 with online tickets.  Students get in for $15, and kids 16 and younger get in free. The MoMA hands out guides for family visits. Walk through the gift shop for unique souvenirs. After art comes architecture so head to a grand Gothic Cathedral located on 5th Ave.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral — Third Stop

Fifth ave. between 50th and 51st st. open daily from 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. .

How to get there:  From the MoMA, walk three blocks down Fifth Ave. to 51st St.

Regardless of religion, St. Patrick’s is one of the pieces of architecture. Take a few minutes and walk through the Neo-Gothic Cathedral in the center of midtown. During my last visit, I saw a girls’ choir performing and the acoustics were unbelievable.

St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers a self-guided tour with an iPad. it guides visitors through the architectural highlights of the cathedral along with its history. The tour is $19 per person.

Up next, walk a .5 mile to a grand train station and have some dinner.

Grand Central Terminal — Fourth Stop

89 e. 42nd st. terminal open from 5:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. dining concourse open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. monday through saturday, sunday 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. free to enter.

How to get there: From St. Patrick’s, walk down 5th Ave for seven blocks to 43rd St. then walk east for two blocks.

Walk through the Beaux Arts Masterpiece and my favorite building in New York City. As the largest train terminal in the world, Grand Central Terminal is a top destination for locals and travelers with dining and shopping along with commuter trains and subways.

The ceiling of the main concourse features an astronomical ceiling, a four-sided brass clock and Tennessee marble on the stairs and the floor. The exterior features granite with expanses of divided-light windows and sculptures.

There are lots of options for dining. The Oyster Bar is the oldest business in Grand Central and offers an iconic NYC dining spot. Or walk to the concourse level for more casual dining, with options like Shake Shack . Grand Central Market offers prepared food, coffee, cut flowers and specialty food items.

After dinner, it’s time to see a Broadway show. If this is your kids’ first theater production, I recommend a Disney on Broadway show.

Theater District for a Show — Fifth Stop

The theater district runs from 40th to 54th streets and from 6th to 8th avenues..

How to get there: Grab an MTA S Train at Grand Central Terminal and exit at Times Square Station.

With audiences full of families, a Disney on Broadway production is my choice for kids’ first theater performance. Packed with tunes they know by heart, elaborate sets and glittering costumes, kids stay glued to their seats. During one visit we saw Aladdin. With my sons, we got tickets to Harry Potter .

Tip: Sure, you can hope for last-minute reduced seats though I reserved my seats way before my trip to ensure my family sat together.

Top Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan 

Times square – sixth stop, intersection of broadway and 7 th avenue.

After a show, celebrate a great trip with the brightest lights in the city. The best time to walk through Times Square is after dark. Times Square also features street performers and lots of shopping.

Tip: Times Square is also a major MTA subway stop with service on the  N , Q , R , S , 1 , 2 , 3 , and 7 trains.

Junior’s Restaurant and Bakery – Seventh Stop

1515 broadway at 45th st. and 1626 broadway at 49th st.  open from sunday to thursday 7 a.m. to midnight, friday and saturday 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. .

With all the walking, it’s time for dessert. I recommend heading north on Broadway to Junior’s for cheesecake. Topping the best cheesecake list for years, it’s a dense, not-too-sweet and creamy NY-style cheesecake. I ordered the plain and didn’t share. It also holds for next-day snacks if you have a refrigerator.

Day Three — Central Park & NYC Animals

Animals live in New York City, lots of them. Then find more animals at the Natural History Museum and Central Park, both favorites among kids. After learning the history of New York City and its early residents, it’s time to learn about its famous park.

American Museum of Natural History and the Hayden Planetarium — First Stop

American museum of natural history central park west at 79th st. open daily from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. admission starts at $16. timed entry reservations required.

How to get there: After enjoying breakfast at your centrally located hotel, take the A or B MTA subway train and exit the 81 st / Museum of Natural History.

A must for families, even my teen daughter spent hours exploring the American Museum of Natural History and the Hayden Planetarium . A sprawling museum that could take all day. Hit the highlights, like the Hall of Dinosaurs, “Lucy,” the early human, the giant blue whale, and the Theodore Roosevelt Rotunda along with the Hall of North American Mammals.

Carve out a little time for the Hayden Planetarium to learn more about the world beyond our atmosphere. It’s located on-site and requires an additional timed ticket.

Tip: I recommend eating lunch at the Natural History Museum and the Museum Food Court on the lower level features family favorites. During our visit we enjoyed salads though pizza, burgers, sandwiches and a selection of desserts are available. Reserve tickets to the Hayden Planetarium before arriving to make the best use of your time.

Adult admission is $28, students are $22, and kids (3 to 12) are $16. Timed Entry Reservations are required. An additional ticket is required for the Planetarium.

After exploring the museum, walk across the street to Central Park.

Tip: First load a  Central Park map on your phone and find your phone’s compass. Even after living in New York City for several years, I still get turned around in the park since all its paths curve and meander.

Walking Tour of Central Park — Second Stop

Enter Central Park right across the street from the Natural History Museum and grab some water from a street vendor lining the park’s edge.

Head for the Swedish Cottage and stay out of the Ramble, a thicket of woods. I have had to use my phone’s compass to navigate out of it, and I lived in the city for years.

After Swedish Cottage, walk through Shakespeare’s Garden and tour Belvedere Castle (donations accepted for tour) to grab a NYC skyline photo from the top.

Next head south to Conservatory Water for a charming area dedicated to the young-at-heart. Rent a wind-powered sailboat ($11 for 30 minutes) or just enjoy the scenery.

The Hans Christian Anderson Statue is close along with the Alice in Wonderland Statue . Both offer must-dos for families.

If the kids want to paddle a boat, head to Loeb’s Boathouse to rent one ($25 an hour, cash only. Summer only). Then grab an ice cream cone at the Loeb Boathouse Café Express for an afternoon snack. It also serves light meals from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Up next, Bethesda Terrance, Fountain, and Arcade, top for pictures of the park. If the kids need a pretzel, find a street cart near Bethesda.

Next walk south along The Mall , a wide sidewalk shaded with trees. Another must for families, the 1908 Carousel is open April though October from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $3 per person, cash only.

After riding the Carousel, walk by the Chess and Checker House and play a game. Then move on to The Diary , a visitor center for Central Park.

Another must for families, the Central Park Zoo boasts a sea lion exhibit that visitors can see while walking along a free path through the zoo.

Find lots of playgrounds sprinkled throughout Central Park so take a minute and let the kids play.

Top Things to Do in Central Park

Walk about .5-mile east on 60 th St. to the Roosevelt Island Tram.

Roosevelt Island Tram — Fourth Stop

At the intersection of 59th st. and 2nd ave..

How to get there: From The Plaza Hotel on 59th St., walk five blocks east to Second Ave, about half a mile.

Take the family on a tram ride for free, if you purchased a MTA MetroCard for the subway (or $4 roundtrip). The bright red tram cars climb up and over the East River to get to Roosevelt Island. Get off and re-board to return to mid-town for some of the best views of Midtown.

After a full day, head back to your hotel. The MTA Lexington Ave./59th St. Station offers service on the  N , R , 4 , 5 , and 6 trains, two blocks from the tram station. Another day of exploring awaits in New York City.

Top 9 Things to Do in NYC in Winter 

Day four more to explore.

After three packed days, NYC still offers more neighborhoods to explore. Start the day in the trendy neighborhood of Chelsea in Lower Manhattan, packed with boutiques, foodie destinations and one of the NYC hot spots–High Line Park.

Chelsea — First Stop

Chelsea market, 75 9 th ave., open 7 a.m. to 10 p.m..

How to get there: From your centrally located hotel, take the downtown-bound C or E trains to the 14th St. Station. Walk west on 14th St. to 9th Ave. Chelsea Market is one block north.

Chelsea Market is a food hall and shopping complex across several floors. After grabbing a bite at any number of places for breakfast, wander around the market for unique shopping.

Head across the street to the High Line for an urban hike, a top destination.

High Line Park — Second Stop

Runs from gansevoort st. to 34 th st., open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m..

How to get there: Located across the street from Chelsea Market, take the elevator to the High Line from the western side of the Chelsea Market Building.

Next walk High Line Park, an elevated walking path and park created from an abandoned New York Central Railroad Spur on the west side. Created in 2009, High Line is a destination for locals and travelers alike. As a bonus, it’s free, unless you want to grab a snack or a quick coffee along the route.

Take the High Line to its northern end at 34 th St. After returning to the street level, hail a cab to the next destination, Circle Line Circles for a NYC cruise.

New York City Cruise — Third Stop

Circle line circles, departs from pier 83 at w 42 nd, first cruise at 10 a.m., tickets start at $23.

How to get there: You can walk from High Line Park to Pier 83 via 10th Ave., but it’s 13 blocks. Or hail a cab.

Sure, you can take a bus tour, but a scenic cruise is better. No street traffic and lots of fabulous city views and as a bonus, see NYC’s bridges from the water.

Tip: Check out the schedule before arriving to see which cruise appeals to you. During peak periods reservations are recommended.

After cruising the open water of the New York Harbor, time to explore another ship at the Intrepid Museum. But take a lunch break first.

Gotham West Market –Fourth Stop

600 11 th ave., open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m..

How to get there: From Pier 83 walk along W. 43rd St. to 11th Ave. Gotham West Market is one block north.

Food Halls offer lots of options, especially for families, and I rely on them for eating in NYC on the cheap cheap. The Gotham West Market offers options like burgers and noodle bowls along with a bar and desserts.

Top 23 Things to Do in Hyde Park NY

Intrepid Sea Air & Space Museum — Fifth Stop

Pier 86 w.46 th st. at 11 th avenue, open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., admission starts at $34. kids 4 and under and free. timed entry reservations required.

How to get there: From Gotham West Market, walk west W. 43rd St. to Pier 86.

As a top destination for kids along with the American Museum of Natural History, the Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum is a must for school-age kids. Don’t let the aircraft carrier throw you off, I found more than military aircraft.

Clamber across the deck of the USS Intrepid to see a retired Concorde (I miss seeing her at JFK), and of course, seeing one of the retired space shuttles is a must. The Space Shuttle Enterprise is one of several on display across the U.S.

If you or your group doesn’t have problems with claustrophobia, explore the USS Growler, a submarine.

After exploring the Intrepid and seeing the Space Shuttle, time to switch gears again. This time I offer some choices.

Adult admission is $36, students are $34, and kids (5 to 12) are $26.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

1000 5th ave., open sunday, monday, tuesday and thursday from 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed wednesday), friday and saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. , admission starts at  $17, kids under 12 free. timed entry reservations required.

As the largest art museum in the U.S., you can explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art all day and still not see it all. So check out the map when you enter and concentrate on your interests.

My favorites are The Temple of Dendur, the Medieval Art for its imposing display, and the American Wing. Yet don’t miss the extensive collection of European Masters.

Adult admission is $20, students are $17, and kids 12 and younger are free.

Tip: Need a break? Grab a snack or light meal at any of the cafes located in The Met.

NY Yankees Stadium

1 e. 161 st., bronx, tickets required.

How to get there:  From Midtown, take the Bronx-bound D train to the 161st St./Yankee Stadium Station. Yankee Stadium is just outside the subway station, and for a game, the subway is the best way to get there.

The energy at a Yankees game could power a medium-sized city on its own. If you have baseball fans, make the effort and see a game.

If it’s an away game, take the Classic Tour instead. Led by a tour guide, visitors see all the best of Yankees Stadium, like the historic baseball artifacts. (Admission based on age.)

Tip: For baseball fans, this is a must. Check the schedule way in advance and purchase tickets before your trip. Be ready for some fun. Yankee fans are loud, and the energy at the games is electric, even for non-fans.

Using A NYC MetroCard With Kids

Use the subway to get around, a must-have skill for teens who will be exploring on their own in a few years. To explore NYC via the subway, head to the nearest subway station to purchase an MTA pay-per-ride subway card. There is even an app for an easier way to ride the subway.

I prefer to use the MetroCard vending machines, but cards can be purchased at the subway station booths. The vending machines accept credit cards and are usually faster than the booths, which might be closed.

Each fare is $2.90 when using a MetroCard, and you get a 5% bonus when you load more than $5.50 on each card. A single-ride ticket is $3.25 via the vending machines or booth.

The MTA unlimited passes come in 7-day and 30-day options. Stick with a pay-per-ride card unless you will ride the subway more than 14 separate times.

Tips and Hints for the NYC Subways

• MetroCards can be used on subway trains and local buses.
• A $1 new card fee applies to all new cards.
• Free transfers between trains at the same station.
• Metro cards bend easily so keep your cards in a protected place, like a wallet.
• If this is your first trip to NYC, stay away from Express trains and buses.
• Up to three kids 44″ and under can ride for free with an accompanying adult.
• Free kids usually crawl under the turnstile before the paying adult swipes their card or use the nearby accessible gate.
• Get a card for each person to swipe so you don’t look like a tourist. Kids 12 and older should be able to navigate by swiping Metrocards and moving through turnstiles.
• Know if you are traveling Uptown (Bronx/Queens) or Downtown (Brooklyn). Trains and subway platforms will be labeled, and maps will be displayed in each train car along with multiple spots in the subway station.
• Since there are lots of stairs to navigate, pack your lightest stroller.
• Hold hands if traveling with smaller kids, especially during peak periods.
• Make sure your child knows to go to an NYPD officer or MTA personnel if lost. Give kids a card with contact information in case of emergency.

Where to Stay in NYC

What to pack in your NYC Bag:

• Water bottle
• Protein bars
• Hand Sanitizer
• Bleach Wipes
• Packable Rain Jacket or Poncho
• Phone Battery Charger and Cord
• Something to sit on for parks

Know Before You Go:

• Travel like a New Yorker and take the subway. I’ve got the directions for you. Or grab a cab or other car service.
• Free public restrooms are hard to find. Pack hand wipes, bleach wipes and hand sanitizer to clean up. McDonald’s is reliable but be prepared to buy a drink to get the key.
• Wear comfortable shoes, you’d be surprised how much walking you can do in NYC.
• The streets of New York are safe, but be aware of who and what is around you at all times.

Consideration for brands mentioned. This post contains affiliate links.

Catherine Parker has a passion for travel and seen all 50 U.S. States. As a former flight attendant with one of the largest airlines, there isn't a North American airport that she hasn't landed in at least once. Since clipping her professional wings after 9/11, she combines her love of the open road with visiting architectural and cultural icons. She is based out of Central Texas dividing her time between writing and restoring a pair of 100-year-old houses. She shares her life with her three kids and her husband.

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Embark on an orientation tour of the City that Never Sleeps

There’s no better way to dive into the energy of the Big Apple than with your Travel Director leading the way to all the best places in New York. From the glittering uptown penthouses to the charming downtown streets, and from the neon-lit skyscrapers to the lush oasis of Central Park, it’s all about the iconic and the unexpected on our New York tours.

View the towering Art Deco façades of the Empire State Building

You can’t go to New York without setting eyes on the Empire State Building, an icon of the city skyline and a symbol of innovation and triumph - everything that makes New York so unique. A masterpiece of modern engineering, this Art Deco skyscraper is a staggering 102 storeys high, and you can head to the observation decks for panoramic views over the city. 

See the pulsating Times Square

You’ve seen it in countless shows and movies, and now you’ll walk in the footsteps of some of the world’s most famous stars when we take you to Times Square. It’s a hub of adventure, and you can gaze up at the flashing billboards, marvel at the street entertainers, or simply watch the world rush past in the “Crossroads of the World”. 

Go behind the scenes on Broadway

Our New York trips take you to the bright lights of Broadway and beyond, with a very special behind-the-scenes tour of this legendary theater district. You’ll meet a Broadway show performer and find out how the famous shows are created, from the first auditions to the live performance, and all the costumes, choreography and chaos in between.

Ascend to the Top of The Rock for dramatic views of the Manhattan

If you’re looking for stunning views over Manhattan, we’ll take you to the Top of the Rock at the famous Rockefeller Center. First, you’ll feel the thrill of gliding 70 floors into the sky as you ride the elevator to the open-air observation deck. Then, you’ll step out into 360-degree views of the world’s most iconic skyline. It’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Our top 5 things to do in New York

The Big Apple is an adventurer’s playground, and we’ll show you all the very best things to do in New York, from the Empire State Building to the beautiful Strawberry Fields.

American Museum of Natural History

As one of the largest natural history museums in the world, you’ll be amazed by this institution, complete with a planetarium, library and over 34 million specimens from fossils and meteorites to cultural artifacts. Learn about volcanoes in 3D film, marvel at a T-Rex skeleton, discover Native American culture, or even travel to the universe beyond Earth.

Guggenheim Museum

Housed in a UNESCO-listed modernist masterpiece by revered architect Frank Lloyd Wright, you’ll be impressed before you even enter the museum. The spiral ramp and domed skylight make the perfect introduction to the superb collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, Vasily Kandinsky and Jeff Koons.

9/11 Memorial & Museum

You’ll have the chance to learn about the tragic history of the 9/11 attacks and World Trade Center bombing at the site where the Twin Towers once stood. We’ll take you around this moving memorial to learn the story of the attacks and the aftermath, and pay tribute to the resilience and strength of the people of New York City.

Best museums in New York

The city’s museums are some of the most incredible places to visit in New York, and we’ll go from iconic art collections and ancient artifacts to moving memorials.

Manhattan clam chowder

Love seafood and soup? You’ll adore this unique clam chowder. It’s famously made with tomatoes and no cream, along with clams, bacon, broth, garlic, red pepper flakes and other vegetables. Created back in the late 19th century in Rhode Island by Portuguese immigrants, it’s still a beloved dish today and you’ve got to give it a try in New York.

New York-style bagel

Soft and chewy in the middle, yet glossy and crunchy at the crust, the New York bagel is one of the city’s greatest masterpieces. It originated from the Jewish community of New York City, and we’ll take you to a 100-year-old Jewish deli in the Upper West Side to taste some of the very best bagels in the city. Don’t forget the cream cheese!

Pastrami sandwich

Famed as New York’s signature sandwich, the classic combo of smoky pink sliced pastrami on rye bread with spicy brown mustard is an unmissable foodie experience in the Big Apple. This delicious invention originated from New York's first Jewish kosher delis in the early 20th century, and we’ll show you all the best places to try this iconic sandwich.

Best food in New York

When you travel New York with Trafalgar, we’ll show you all the best places to taste the city’s most famous eats, including those irresistible New York bagels.

What to pack for New York

Walking shoes

New York is a city that’s best explored on foot, and you’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes to get you around all the famous sights.

Glitzy outfit

With world-class bars, restaurants and theatres, you’ll want to hit the town at least once in the City that Never Sleeps. Bring a glam outfit and you’ll feel like a million bucks.

Portable charger

Your camera and phone are sure to get a workout on your New York tour, so bring a portable charger and save yourself the hassle of trekking back to your hotel to charge them up.

Bring a lightweight, waterproof day bag and use it to store your snacks, water bottle, souvenirs and anything else you pick up on your New York adventure.

Layered clothing

The weather can be unpredictable in this city and the best way to prepare for your New York trip is to bring cool and warm layers that will keep you comfortable in any weather.

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We know getting a group around can be difficult. Book with confidence with J&R Tours. We specialize in handling the logistics for you, so you can focus on other things. Easy, safe and efficient charter bus rental for New York City and surrounding states.

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What to Do on a Student Fashion Tour of New York City

If you’re planning a fashion tour, your students will really enjoy New York City . NYC is a must for all the fashion freaks!

Among all the places, you should see the ones we are mentioning here. Get immersed in the magnificent world of fashion.

Garment Center Shops

The Garment Center is the focal point of New York fashion industry. Here in these few blocks, there is a variety of shops and stores.

It is the home to thousands of fashion businesses. Seeing so many different textiles and accessories can appear to be too much, but no – you will definitely find what fits you!

This is the place where you can see the famous designers at work, such as Calvin Klein… How about that?

Parsons School of Design

This is very famous private art and design college, the top one in the United States, founded in 1896. It’s offering students innovative ways of education to unleash their creativity and prepare them for the future.

It offers both undergraduate and graduate courses in fashion design, graphic design, interior design, curatorial studies, textiles, urban ecologies, and more. It’s known for its alumni — famous fashion designers and artists.

Who knows, maybe you will enroll in this fascinating university?

Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

This is a public college in Manhattan, focused mostly on art and design.

FIT has a museum which is one of the rare ones specialized in fashion. Its permanent collection is around 50,000 fashion pieces dating back to 18th century.

It has the collection of textiles, clothes and accessories.

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The popular “Met” is the third most visited museum in the world, and the biggest one in the United States. It has more than  7 million visitors per year.

Its permanent collection has more than two million art-pieces, consisting of the works from antiquity through modern art. It was opened in 1870 with the thought of bringing art to American people.

Lower East Side Tenement Museum

This historic national landmark gives a peek into the lives of immigrants who lived at 97 & 103 Orchard Street decades ago (even back to 1860s).   It also offers tours with actors who portray residents and their customs. Get to know more about American history!

For more info about student tours to NYC, contact Junior Tours .

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