15 Best Things to Do in NYC with Kids [TOP Family Activities]

The big city may be an exciting and sophisticated destination, but there are also plenty of fun activities to do in NYC with children. Therefore, if you’re visiting New York as a family, you’ll have no shortage of options to choose from!

Before we commence, I’d prefer to point out that if you’re arriving from the airfield (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark), you have the option to reserve a private transport to your lodging instead of dealing with all your family baggage alone. They even provide youngsters` automobile seats that your family may require (simply request them on the “remarks for the provider” section).

Traveling with little ones? Check the top family travel coverage policies. Some of them cover kids at no cost!

Also, if your family wishes to explore the most celebrated attractions in the city, check out the numerous New York attraction passes available. They will help you conserve a significant amount of money! If it’s your first time in NYC, I especially recommend the New York Pass. It incorporates over 100 attractions, like the Big Bus Tour, one of the best hop-on hop-off bus tours in NYC, which is ideal for families with small children because you can explore the most popular places and avoid some of the crowds. Plus, if the kids become tired, simply appreciate the views from the open deck. It’s much more convenient than using the New York subway!

Fifteen of the optimal activities to participate in as a household in NYC will be highlighted, so keep examining!

1. Central Park, a beautiful place to visit in NYC with kids

Visiting Central Park is one of the most excellent activities to participate in while in New York City, and it happens to be a top attraction in NYC ideal for families too. Central Park is extensive, so it aids to know what you will do there before arriving.

Certain well-known activities to do in Central Park include the Butterfly Gardens at North Meadow and the Michael Friedsam Memorial Carousel near East 65^th Street. You could also check out the nature observatory at Belvedere Castle, the rowboat rentals at Loeb Boathouse,Lasker Pool, or Wollman Rink. Additionally, there are 21 playgrounds scattered throughout the park, with Heckscher Playground being the most popular. It’s the oldest playground in Central Park and is located between 61^st and 63^rd Streets.

Guided explorations of Central Park are covered under the New York Pass, but you can also participate in this guided bicycle tour or rent a bicycle and explore independently. Furthermore, if you’re searching for other kid-friendly parks in NYC, check out Prospect Park, Little Island, or Bryant Park.

2. Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island, something fun to do in NYC as a family

Another famous family-friendly attraction in New York is the Statue of Liberty. While you can see it from Battery Park and other spots in Manhattan, taking a cruise past it makes for a more thrilling experience!

I suggest taking a Statue of Liberty tour such as the one provided by the New York Pass, or this alternative, which visits both Liberty and Ellis Islands. First, Liberty Island is home to the iconic Lady Liberty statue and the Statue of Liberty Museum, housing the original torch. Ellis Island was solely accessible by ferry and was most renowned for processing over 11 million immigrants between 1892 and 1954. Alongside views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island also features an immigration museum and remnants of its prior hospital facilities.

Both Liberty and Ellis Islands provide interesting attractions in NYC suitable for families, but if you prefer to not take a tour, you can ride the Staten Island Ferry, which is free and sails past the Statue of Liberty.

3. One World Observatory & other NYC observation decks for kids

Provided they usually are not frightened of heights, visiting one particular of NYC’s premier observational platforms is an excellent thing to undertake in The big apple along with youngsters.

One of the most impactful vantages is the One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, one of the most iconic structures in NYC. Rising to 1,268 feet, the observatory deck spans three levels. Witnessing the city from 100 floors up delivers quite an experience, as you can behold all of Manhattan from an aerial perspective. You are able to obtain One World Observatory tickets in advance, but while you’re here, you might as well explore the 9/11 Museum with this combo pass.

Specifically addressing points of observation, it’s also worthwhile visiting the top level viewing area of the Empire State Building and the , which provides 360° views. Plus, all of these viewing locations are incorporated in the New York Pass.

4. Coney Island, the best place to visit in New York City as a family

For visitors to the city in summer, a must-see is Coney Island, as it`s one of the most engaging activities in NYC for both kids and those young at heart.

Coney Island is located in one of the southern districts of Brooklyn, so traveling there takes some time, but it is worth the wait! Not only does this place provide many fun activities outside of NYC, but it is an iconic landmark with a lot of history. It has served as a seaside refuge since the mid 1800s, thanks to its public parks, family-friendly attractions in NYC beaches, and amusements.

Some of the best activities found in Coney Island include visiting Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, which offers over a dozen children`s rides and carnival attractions representing one of the top amusement parks located in New York. After spending time enjoying the entertainment options, you can take a stroll along the boardwalk and observe people, grab a snack, and watch the waves crash along the shore.

Even if you visit Coney Island during the off-season, it’s a nice place to go, especially if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

5. American Museum of Natural History, one of the best museums in NYC for kids

Without a doubt, one of the best indoor children’s activities in Manhattan is visiting the AmericanMuseum of Natural History. This is one of the best museums in NYC, and if you’re a resident of New York, New Jersey, or Connecticut, admission is pay-what-you-wish.

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Among its exhibits, the museum houses the world`s largest collection of dinosaur fossils, a mineral hall containing rare gems, an earth and space center with a planetarium, and a theater. So, if families are seeking indoor activities in NYC when it rains or snows, this museum deserves prime consideration!

6. Visit American Dream Mall, an exciting thing to do in New York City with kids

Another activity suitable for families in NYC is visiting American Dream Mall. This is a good choice if the weather is poor, or you want to depart the city center briefly. It’s in East Rutherford, New Jersey, about a 30 minute drive from Manhattan.

The American Dream Mall appeals to both children and adults as a shopping and entertainment complex. Here, you can shop at over 400 stores, dine at over 100 restaurants and cafes, and see dozens of temporary art displays and museums.

Some of the top features here comprise the Amusement center inspired by Nickelodeon , the Indoor aquatic facility envisioned by DreamWorks (the most popular aquatic venue close to NYC) and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, which is perfect for families with younger kids. There are other activities for families such as films, miniature golf under black lights,miniature golf inspired by Angry Birds,indoor skating, a Labyrinth with mirrored surfaces, indoor skiing, bowling, and rock climbing.

Moreover, the TiLT Museum is an enjoyable activity to do with teenagers in NYC, so you can find something suitable for everyone at this immense complex.

7. Superheroes of New York walking tour, a fun family activity in NYC

This two-day excursion is ideal if you wish to explore the region during Quebec whale season. You’ll stop by the Baie-Ste-Catherine and travel along the St. Lawrence River, where you’ll board a 3-hour Quebec whale-watching tour, then visit the picturesque town of Isle-aux-Coudres. The following morning, enjoy time at the gorge and waterfalls of Canyon Sainte-Anne and finish your journey with a stop at the Quebec Aboriginal Village.

Superman devotees can see the spot where Christopher Reeves first demonstrated his power of flight as one of the greatest heroes of all time in NYC. Additionally, if you love the Avengers, you can pass by different landmarks that made it into the Marvel film series.

Your guide will take you to other iconic locations like the Daily News building, the Green Goblin’s apartment, and popular gathering places for comic creators and artists. A New York family excursion like this can be a great way to get some exercise, see several famous landmarks, and learn something new, all in one outing, so I highly recommend it!

8. SPYSCAPE, another cool place to visit in NYC with kids

I had pointed out previously the American Museum of Natural History, one of the premier museums in NYC. Another interactive exhibit is SPYSCAPE, an immersive world of covert gadgets, secret encryptions, and physical and intellectual challenges. It’s certainly one of the top family activities in New York, especially if your children need to unleash some vitality!

SPYSCAPE provides youngsters with an experience that makes them feel like they are functioning as special forces agents as they solve mysteries involving different spy tools, navigate laser tunnels undetected, and question suspects. Despite being a modern museum, SPYSCAPE stands apart since it was created with assistance from psychologists and a former head of British intelligence.

Participants can take a unique personality assessment to identify which undercover roles and activities are the best professional fit based on individual traits and talents. Learners can then gain expertise in relevant techniques and equipment as they progress through different challenges at SPYSCAPE. It’s considered one of the optimal NYC attractions for families, so I advise purchasing your entry ahead of time.

9. Go to the Color Factory, a unique thing to do in New York City with kids

Some of the best children’s pastimes in Manhattan are those that you can do at any age, and the Color Studio is one of those!

The Color Manufacturing facility is an artistic installation and experience where you can research the distinctive exhibits and insert yourself into the narrative. The whole place is a storytelling collaboration between artists, institutions, non-profits, and brands using hue, materials, shapes, and other design aspects. Each room is carefully curated, so bring your camera!

All displays are self-guided, and while most invite touching various objects, others request listening to different sounds, so best to supervise children as they explore.

10. Madame Tussauds, one of the best family attractions in NYC

Among the top 10 activities to do in New York City with family, one highly recommended option is Madame Tussauds. Each Madame Tussauds location has its own unique features, so if you haven’t visited the one in NYC yet, I suggest putting it on your list.

Here, you can view over 200 skillfully-made wax likenesses resembling renowned film stars, athletes, and musicians like Taylor Swift, the Kardashians, Madonna, Brad Pitt, and Lady Gaga. I promise you that some of these figures will have you doing a double take! Plus, Madame Tussauds is in Times Square, so you’ll be near lots of other excellent things to do in NYC.

This renowned attraction for families in New York City, and tickets can be purchased ahead of time here or entry gained with the New York Pass.

11. Dyker Heights, the best thing to do for Christmas in NYC

If you’re visiting New York during the holidays, you’re in for a treat because there are various festive events and activities taking place. One of the most well-known holiday attractions is the Dyker Heights light display tour in Brooklyn.

During this period of the year, the neighborhood is adorned with dazzling lights and luminous Christmas displays, which look amazing against the backdrop of residential homes. The roughly 3.5-hour guided tour includes a lively commentary regarding the tradition of placing up Christmas lights in Dyker Heights, as well as a chance to meet some of the homeowners. This way, you won’t miss any of the beautiful displays!

I hope you take full advantage of your trip to Lanzarote by participating in one of the whale watching excursions. These tours of observing whales in Lanzarote are truly remarkable and will leave you breathless. If you plan to visit other islands as well, I recommend reviewing our guide highlighting the Canary Islands, which provides additional activities you can partake in.

12. Museum of Ice Cream, an unusual place to see in New York City with family

The idea of a museum dedicated to desserts may seem like a child’s dream come true, but it actually exists! The Museum of Ice Cream in Manhattan is one family activity in NYC that everyone will enjoy.

As you explore the imaginative galleries and displays, you can enjoy some delicious treats. Additionally, the interactive exhibits include a sprinkle pool, giant slide, and other walk-through experiences, so it’s a true delight.

The Museum of Ice Cream is known as a “selfie museum,” so it’s a good place to visit if you’re travelling to NYC with a teenager. While capturing some imaginative photos, you’ll create sweet recollections, so don’t forget to book a ticket here.

13. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, another fun place to go in NYC with kids

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an additional intriguing museum in NYC that you can see as a relatives. Situated along the Hudson River, the museum is an accumulation of vessels that exhibit the city’s military and maritime story.

Among the vessels on display are the USS Intrepid, which was a famous aircraft carrier; the USS Growler cruise missile submarine; and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. You can also see a supersonic reconnaissance plane, a recreation of a World War I biplane, and exhibits from NASA, the CIA, and different branches of the U.S. armed forces.

If kids enjoy ships, exploring the decks of the USS Intrepid, such as the hangar, flight deck, and gallery deck, is something they will really appreciate. It’s a great indoor/outdoor family attraction in New York, so be sure to check it out, no matter the weather.

14. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, a free thing to do in New York City as a family

Regardless of one`s age, viewing the most famous bridge in New York, the Brooklyn Bridge, is one of the best free activities to participate in NYC. This iconic landmark is over 130 years old and offers lovely scenery of the city and the East River. The Brooklyn Bridge stretches 6,000 feet across, so traversing it is quite an experience. There are separate lanes designated for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles, so one can choose how they`d like to cross.

In addition to walking the length of the famous bridge, visitors can explore the nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park, an 85-acre public space offering various exciting activities suitable for families in NYC. Within the park, you’ll find manicured lawns, scenic overlooks, playgrounds, waterside walkways, and food vendors.

Other attractions at the park include Jane`s Carousel and DUMBO Boulders, an area for rock climbing. The park also hosts family activities in New York, like free stargazing, festivals, and theater shows.

15. Visit the Children’s Museum of the Arts & other NYC museums for kids

Last but not least, the highly esteemed Children’s Museum of the Arts is another top NYC attraction for families with kids. There, they can learn from instructive artists how to create works of art through drawing, sculpture, sound, stop-motion, and textiles. The museum also has a rotating roster of exhibitions and installations such as murals, photographs, and sketches.

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan and Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling in New York City offer kid-friendly experiences to explore. Located in the Upper West Side, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan sparks creativity through hands-on exhibits about music, science, technology, and history. Visitors can not only make their own art but also learn in an interactive way.

Furthermore, the Sugar Hill Museum in Manhattan permits kids to explore books, stories, artwork, and their own imaginations. Together with hands-on activities, they can listen to talented storytellers and browse through multimedia exhibitions and installations.

Best hotels in NYC for families with kids

Since there is so much family fun in New York City, I suggest staying overnight so you can take advantage of everything. These are my top recommendations for where to sleep in NYC if you’re traveling with kids:

• TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South has spacious family rooms so everyone can rest comfortably.

• Sohotel is another great option that is near family attractions in New York, like the Children’s Museum of the Arts.

You can find more accommodations and lodgings for families in our guide on where to reside in NYC.

That’s it from me! Now you have 15 awesome things to do in NYC with kids, so there is no way they will be saying “I`m bored” during your trip! To make things even easier, you can download this NYC tourist map with all the New York family attractions and hotels I mentioned.

If you have any queries or you’d like to share your New York family vacation ideas, leave me a comment below. Have a safe trip!