Are you planning on visiting NYC with kids? You’ve come to the right place! This travel guide has everything you need for planning a trip to New York City with your family. Check out the table of contents and skip around if you need to. We have included everything to do in NYC from popular attractions, family-friendly fun, unique activities, amazing viewpoints, free things to do in NYC, restaurant recommendations and best places to stay!
New York City. The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. The Capital of the World. The Five Boroughs. Whatever you call it, this city must be on your bucket list. This city has something for everyone from iconic landmarks, world-class museums and art galleries, Broadway, epic food scene, and much more.
Why Should You Be Visiting NYC With Kids?
The greatest part of New York is that there is something for everyone to enjoy in this great city. It will be easy to find activities that both adults and kids enjoy from educational experiences, like the Statue of Liberty to fun recreational and cultural activities like exploring Central Park and going to a Broadway show.
Ready to find out what’s in store for your vacation to NYC? Let’s go!
Meet our Local NYC Expert
This is Alex! Alex is a stay at home mum and blogger who lived in NYC with her young kids for two years. I reached out to Alex about spotlighting New York City for this local travel guide after following her on Instagram. She has amazing travel content that she posts from her adventures around the city with her boys. Her tips are thoughtful and helpful for families with young kids that love a city and enjoy traveling. Her photos will inspire you to get outside and see this beautiful world.
Best Time to Visit New York City
Alex loves the vibe of NYC. This metropolis always has something new to see and explore. Her favorite time of year in New York City is the spring when Central Park bursts with incredibly beautiful blossoms. Fall is also a lovely time to be in the city with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. The fall leaves in Central Park are also stunning! Christmas is a magical time in NYC, but it is also the busiest time of year to visit. Alex advises to avoid NYC in the summer because it can get very hot and humid with massive crowds.
Alex Jessica Mills – Mum In The City
I would highly recommend visiting Alex’s blog, Alex Jessica Mills – Mum in the City. After perusing this travel guide, stop over there to get more detailed information on NYC including how to navigate the city, itineraries, and more. She also has some other great posts on other popular city destinations. She is my go to for city travel!
Another great spot to connect with Alex is on Instagram @muminthecity. She recently moved back to London and has started to post more about there and her other recent trips. Check out her posts, hit follow and send her a hello!
Some of the links on this post are affiliate links. When clicking on the links and booking travel, I receive a small commission with no extra costs for you. Please note, I only recommend brands I actually use and trust.
Top 7 Attractions in New York City
Like all my Local Travel Guides, I researched multiple blogs and found what are said to be the best things to do in NYC. Below are the 7 most popular attractions with Alex’s ratings and tips.
Visit the Empire State Building
Photo on the left is a stock image downloaded from Canva.
This is the most iconic building in NYC and is fun to visit but there are other viewpoints around the city that are so much better.
Alex recommends The Top of the Rock (me too!) where you have views of the Empire State Building and her kids’ favorite skyscraper was Summit One Vanderbuilt as it is very interactive and unique!
Walk Across the Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a great free activity to do when visiting NYC with kids, but it can get very busy.
Alex recommends walking across the bridge early in the morning and then spending some time exploring DUMBO. You’ll get great views of Manhattan from there.
Kids will love the Main Street Park playground and also Jane’s Carousel.
Most people like Grimaldi’s Pizza but her favorite is Ignazio’s Pizzeria for lunch.
See the Lights in Times Square
If it is your first time in NYC, Times Square is a must see attraction. Honestly, though, it is a little overrated. Best time to visit is in the evening when all the billboards are shining brightly.
Visit the M&M store with the kids! They’ll love it!
Please note: Pictures with the characters in the square will cost you a big tip!
Wander Around Central Park
Photo credit for both images: Alex Jessica Mills
According to Alex, Central Park is the best park in the world. That is a huge statement since there are so many great parks on this planet, but I think she’s right. It’s pretty great!
Key places to see:
- The Mall – This beautiful walkway lined with huge Elm trees is the perfect spot for a stroll and some photos, especially remarkable in the autumn.
- The Bethesda Terrace and the Fountain – Visit this iconic 2-story terrace that is in the heart of Central park with breathtaking views of the lake.
- Belvedere Castle – Enjoy the views of the surrounding park at this charming miniature castle in the middle of Central Park and it’s free!
- The Alice in Wonderland and Hans Christian Anderson Statues – Can you find them both?
- There are 21 amazing playgrounds to choose from. Alex recommends Heckscher and Billy Johnson which are both great for all ages.
See a Broadway Show
Seeing a Broadway show is an incredible experience when visiting NYC with kids. You will need to check the age requirements for some of the shows, but if you are traveling with older kids 8+, there are some great options. I saw Wicked when I was there which is great for kids. Other kid-friendly options include, The Lion King, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and Aladdin.
Want a night out without the kids? Some other show options to consider are Moulin Rouge, Hamilton, and The Book of Mormon.
There at Christmas? The Rockettes is a great show for the family!
Experience Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is not only a photogenic observation deck; it combines art, technology, architecture and thrill! Your kids will love it and so will you!
Open from 9am – 12am with the last entry at 10:30pm. Get your tickets in advance!
Visit the Statue of Liberty
Left image photo credit: Alex Jessica Mills
The one place Alex didn’t get the opportunity to visit while she lived in NYC is the Statue of Liberty. Luckily, I have actually been to it! The Statue of Liberty is an iconic location in NYC and in my opinion a must see. If you are interested in visiting the crown, you must book your tickets in advance. Reserve your crown tickets here.
Please note: Children must be at least 42″ (107 cm) tall and capable of climbing the stairs on their own to the crown.
Your tickets to the crown will include:
- Round-trip ferry tickets to Liberty Island and Ellis Island
- Priority entry into the Screening Facility Queue
- Access up to the crown
- Access to the Fort Wood section of the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty National Monument
- Access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island grounds
- Statue of Liberty museum
- Audio tours of Liberty and Ellis islands
Other important additional information can be found on their website here.
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Additional Family-Friendly Activities
If you are traveling with kids, it’s nice to have a few family-friendly options to choose from. Here are Alex’s recommendations for visiting NYC with kids.
Governors Island
Photo credit for both images: Alex Jessica Mills
Governors Island is an island in the middle of New York Harbor and NYC’s best kept secret. It is close to both Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn. The NYC Ferry will get you there from Wall Street in less than 10 minutes. If you are there on a weekend, young kids will be fascinated by the Urban Garden where they can dig, water the plants and learn about the gardens.
Beyond that, there are so many different fun activities on the island. With the island being car free, it is a great place to rent a bike or surrey and cruise around. There are even scooters, balance bikes and go-karts for rent. In addition, check out the playgrounds, lavender field, goats and chickens, and many nice places to dine.
Another bonus is the amazing views of the NYC skyline you will see from the island.
Check out Governors Island’s website for helpful important visitor information and events.
The Ramble or The North Woods
Both of these scenic wooded areas in Central Park are perfect for kids and families to explore and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. In the North Woods there is a 1-mile loop where you can even see a mini waterfall. Also, be on the lookout for the near 230 species of birds that call Central Park their home.
Additional Recommendations for Visiting NYC With Kids
Grand Central Terminal
This stunning terminal is not to be missed when visiting NYC. It is filled with history, gorgeous architecture, shopping and dining. Be sure to look up at the gold leaf constellations on the ceiling, take in the information booth clock that is pictured in so many popular Hollywood films, and all the other architectural details that fill the terminal. If you are interested in Grand Central Terminal’s history, you can even book a tour.
The New York Public Library
Speaking of grand buildings, sitting on 5th Ave is the New York Public Library. Step inside the library between the famous stone lions and see the wonders that are waiting for you inside. It’s not just books that you will see, but also striking architectural design, map collection, theater and a gallery.
Visit the Polonsky Exhibition, which has the original Winnie the Pooh teddy bear on display. AND it’s free to enter! There is a children’s library located across the street.
Outside of the library, take in the green space that is Bryant Park.
The High Line
High Line Park is located in Manhattan’s West Side. This public park was built on a historic freight rail line elevated above the streets. Experience the park by simply wandering around and discovering its public art, unique gardens, and overlooks. It is a special and fun park to visit.
Little Island Park
Little Island Park is a great place if you are visiting NYC with kids. This unique green space is unlike any other in NYC. Its special stilt design will amaze you. Spend your time enjoying the flower-filled space, the playground or catch a free or ticketed show at the amphitheater if you are visiting June – September. Ticket information for the Little Island Park here.
Amazing Viewpoints in NYC NOT to Miss
Pier 57
Located right next to Island Park is Pier 57. Grab a bite to eat in the food market and then make your way to the rooftop park. This beautiful 2-acre park is the perfect spot to take in views of Lower Manhattan and New York Harbor.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
If you are looking for a unique way to travel in the city and see some fun views of Manhattan, consider taking the Roosevelt Island Tramway. The aerial cable car takes you from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island and gives you standout views of the city. It is also a hit with the youngsters.
Long Island City
Along the East River in Queens, Long Island City is a great place to get pictures of the Manhattan skyline. Try Hunters Point South Park or Gantry Plaza State Park to take in the sunset.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
If a rooftop bar is what you seek, check out 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar that is located only a few blocks from the Empire State Building. Kids are allowed to enter until 7pm.
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Free Things To Do In NYC with Kids
There are a plethora of museums, galleries, gardens and other attractions in NYC that are free or have free days or hours. For the complete list of free places click here.
Below is a list of a few places that stood out to Alex and I and are great for the family:
- Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Free Tuesdays)
- Bronx Zoo (Pay what you wish on Wednesdays)
- New York Botanical Garden (Free on Wednesdays)
- Brooklyn Children’s Museum (Free 3-5 pm on Thursdays)
- New York Aquarium (Free on Wednesday Afternoons)
- The Met – 81st Street Studio (Free ages 3-11 and their families but needs to be booked in person on the day)
In addition to these museums, other activities in the city that are free and recommended by Alex to visit are:
- The High Line
- Little Island
- The New York Public Library
- Central Park
- Governors Island
- Brooklyn Bridge
- Bryant Park
- The Staten Island Ferry
- Battery Park
New York City Restaurant Recommendations
Delicious Local Cuisine
We are looking at your pizza and bagels!
- Bagel Shop – 93rd and 3rd Street
- Joe’s Pizza – Multiple locations
- Artichoke Basille’s Pizza – Gotta try the artichoke slice. It’s incredible!
- Roma – Multiple locations
- Patsy’s Pizzeria – 2nd Ave and The Upper West Side
Kid-Friendly Cafes in NYC
- Breads bakery – Multiple locations
- Le Pain Quatredien – Get the chocolate brownie!!
- Maman – Multiple locations
- Wafels & Dinges – For tasty Belgian waffles!
- Gregory’s Coffee
- Blank Street Coffee
Top Breakfast Joints
- Midnight Express Diner – Open 24/7
- Gracie’s Diner – For that American diner experience
Best Lunch
- Bill’s Bar and Burger – Rockefeller Center
Good Cheap Food
- 2 Bros Pizza – $1.50 for a slice of cheese pizza! – Only To Go!
- Little Italy – $7 for slices and a soda
- Food carts – Grab a pretzel or hot dog from one of these iconic NYC street vendors!
- Matto Espresso – Good for coffees and pastries. Everything is $2.50 if you order on their app or $2.75 if you order at the store.
- Trader Joe’s and Target – Grab your snacks here; otherwise, the groceries in the city will be extremely expensive!
Where to Stay When Visiting NYC With Kids
The most popular location for people to stay in is Midtown Manhattan and close to Times Square. This is the most popular place due to its convenient location near most of the main tourist attractions in NYC and the easy transport connections to downtown.
Hotel Recommendations in New York City
Most Popular Hotels in NYC
More Affordable Options in NYC
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