39 Epic Things to Do in NYC with Kids [2024]

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SEARCHING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN NYC WITH KIDS?

We can help! We’ve been traveling with kids since 2015 and have discovered that there are an unlimited number of fun things to do in NYC with kids. We have listed many of the best things that we love when we explore the area. Below we talk about some places for the best view, and all of them are places the whole family will love.

NYC is the perfect place to visit on a family trip. We hope you are able to get out and explore the area and all the fun activities there are to enjoy with your kids in NYC.

IMPORTANT Things to Know Before Going to NYC with Kids

1. Be cautious when crossing the street. Make sure to use a designated crosswalk and keep an eye out for oncoming traffic. Do not assume that a car will stop for you, even if you have the right of way. Traffic in the city is crazy.

2. Do not accept a ride invitation from unmarked cars or someone offering to reserve an Uber for you. We totally got scammed at the airport, and our ride ended up costing us way more than if we would have reserved the Uber for ourselves. They added tolls, a huge gratuity, and other expenses.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids

3. Your kids will have a great time in the city but will need a break sometimes. It is a stimulating and busy place with lots of fun things to do with kids in NYC. Take some time to play at the park, enjoy a treat or spend some extra time exploring a place that interests them. Be flexible, and everyone will have a better time.

4. New York City is a very stroller-friendly city. We brought a side-by-side double umbrella stroller and had no problems getting around the city, with exception of the subway stairs. One station had a lift that made it easier, but most did not.

People were constantly holding doors open for us and offering to help get the stroller up or down a flight of stairs. The crosswalks are flat and large, making it easy to push your stroller through the street.

5. Don’t underrate the street food stands. Carts on the streets of New York City sell almost everything from bottled water to hot dogs to halal-friendly gyros. While it isn’t the fanciest food in New York City, it is quick and convenient when everyone is hungry while vacationing in New York City with kids.

While in Central Park, we grabbed some hot dogs, water, and icees to cool down and enjoy the Great Lawn. Our kids are happiest when they have full stomachs.

Saving Money on Things to do in NYC with Kids

We love using the CityPass when we travel to different cities. They often include some of the best attractions that the city has to offer at a discounted rate. If you’re looking for things to do in NYC with kids, the CityPASS is definitely worth considering.

The New York CityPass includes attractions like the American Museum of Natural History, the Empire State Building, the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and more. If you’re looking for things to do in NYC on a budget, the CityPass is a great thing to look into.

SHOP New York CityPass

Things to Do in NYC with Kids

1. Statue of Liberty

Visiting the Statue of Liberty is one of the fun things to do in NYC with kids

The Statue of Liberty is one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States. Located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor, the statue was a gift from France to America and was dedicated in 1886.

Visitors can take a ferry to the island from Battery Park in Lower Manhattan. Once on the island, there is a museum that tells the story of the Statue of Liberty, as well as an audio tour available in several languages. There is also a pedestal observation deck with views of the New York City skyline and Ellis Island.

The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour: All Options is a great way to go on a guided tour that includes a ferry ride to both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Going through these famous and important landmarks with a guide is an amazing experience.

If you want to maximize your experience, you should definitely go on a guided tour.

Pro Tip: Reserve your tickets in advance as they do tend to sell out, especially during the summer.

BOOK Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

2. Ellis Island

Ellis Island near New York City

Ellis Island is a small island located in New York Harbor. It was the entry point for millions of immigrants to the United States from 1892 to 1954.

Today, Ellis Island is a museum that tells the story of immigration to the United States. There are several exhibits as well as an audio tour available in multiple languages. Visitors can also see the restored Great Hall, where immigrants were processed.

The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour: All Options mentioned above are a great way to visit both the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

BOOK Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

3. American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most renowned natural history museums in the world. Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan and the museum has millions of specimens!

This family-friendly museum covers two square blocks, so do some research ahead of time about which exhibits your family will be most interested in. Our favorite exhibits in the Museum of Natural History were the dinosaurs and the animal dioramas throughout the museum. This is a great indoor stop for kids in NYC, especially if it is a hot day.

Exhibit at the Museum of Natural History

There is so much to see, do and learn at the Museum of Natural History in New York City. Some of the highlights of the museum include the dinosaurs, African mammals, human origins, and more.

To look more into their different events, exhibits, and the many different things there are to do, you can visit their website.

Book Tickets to the Natural History Museum

4. 9/11 Ground Zero Tour, Memorial, and Museum

Visiting the 9/11 Memorial is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids

The 9/11 Ground Memorial, as well as Pearl Harbor on Oahu, is one of the most moving places we have visited in our travels. There is a special spirit there as you remember those who lost their lives there on September 11th. We highly recommend visiting this special site.

The All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial, and Museum, One World Observatory is a guided tour of the site of the World Trade Center. The tour includes skip-the-line access to the 9/11 Memorial, which is a tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks, as well as the museum which tells the story of what happened on September 11th, 2001.

The tour also includes access to the One World Observatory, which is located on the top floors of the One World Trade Center. The observatory offers stunning views of New York City and the Statue of Liberty.

This tour is an amazing way to learn about one of the most significant events in recent history. It is a must-do for anyone visiting.

BOOK 9/11 Ground Zero Tour

If you’re not interested in the guided tour, you can book tickets just for the 9/11 Museum here.

5. Top of the Rock

Kids will have fun at the Top of the Rock in New York City

The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is located on the top floors of Rockefeller Center. It offers stunning views of New York City, including Central Park, Times Square, and the Empire State Building.

There are three indoor observation decks as well as an outdoor deck. The outdoor deck is only open during the summer. The view and the experience are something we would highly recommend. We went to the Top of the Rock during our last visit to NYC, and the views were amazing.

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6. NYC One World Observatory

The One World Observatory is located on the top floors of the One World Trade Center, which is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The observatory offers stunning views of New York City and the surrounding area.

You can learn about its construction and have an amazing view of the city. The observatory is a unique and exciting experience. There is a restaurant at the top where you can eat or get a drink. A reservation should be made if you are eating at the restaurant.

View from the top of the NYC One World Observatory

With this ticket, you can skip the line for tickets and head right to the security checkpoint. It is great to be prepared because some of these activities can get crowded.

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7. Edge Observation Deck

One of the fun things to do in NYC with kids is the Edge Observation Deck

The Edge Observation Deck is located on the top floors of the Hudson Yards. It offers stunning views of New York City and the surrounding area. It is the highest outdoor observation deck with a neat glass bottom section.

You will love the experience and the views. If you are scared of heights, this might not the activity for you, but if it is not too bad, you might still try because the views are great.

You should buy tickets ahead of time because it can get crowded waiting to get your tickets. If you have your ticket already purchased, the experience is much more smooth.

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8. Helicopter Tour

Aerial view of New York City

A helicopter tour is a great way to see New York City from a different perspective. You will fly over the city and see all of the sights. The tour lasts about 30 minutes.

This is a great activity for families or groups of friends. It is a unique experience that you will remember for a long time. You can check out the New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights, where you will see a beautiful skyline with a wide range of departure times to fit your schedule.

The aerial views are such a fun experience, and the prices are very reasonable for such an exciting adventure. This is an activity your kids will remember forever!

BOOK NYC Helicopter Tour

9. Central Park Pedicab Guided Tour

Stairway in Central Park

A pedicab is a great way to see Central Park. You will be able to see all of the sights and learn about the history of the park. The tour lasts between 1 and 3 hours.

This is a great activity for families or groups of friends. It is a unique experience that you will remember for a long time. The pedicabs are a fun way to see the park, and the prices are very reasonable.

It is also nice to take a private tour like this, where you can easily ask questions or just sit, relax and enjoy the ride.

BOOK Central Park Pedicab Tour

10. Carriage Ride in Central Park

Carriage ride in NYC

Riding in a horse-drawn carriage through Central Park is a classic NYC experience not to be missed. We booked a carriage ride, and our kids were so excited. They felt like Cinderella in her carriage.

You can sit back and relax as you clip-clop your way around the park, taking in the sights and sounds of one of New York’s most iconic locations.

The horses are beautiful, and this particular carriage ride is private, so you won’t have to share with strangers. Even when it is chilly outside, this is a great activity. They provided blankets, so this is a great way to stay warm and cozy together with your family.

BOOK Central Park Carriage Ride

11. Riding Bikes in Central Park

One of the fun things to do in NYC with kids is riding bikes through Central Park

 We rented bikes from Bike Rental Central Park through our All City Pass NYC 3 Days. They offered bike seats for Rowen and Raven, which made exploring the park a breeze. Some stops your kids will love are the Carousel, Zoo, the Loeb Boathouse and lake, and the Great Lawn.

There are also around 20 different playgrounds in Central Park you can stop at.

Biking through Central Park is a fun way to see the different things through the park and is a lot less effort than walking.

12. Central Park

Central Park in New York City

Central Park is a large, public park located in the heart of Manhattan. It was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux in the late 1800s and is now one of the most iconic locations in New York City.

People love Central Park for its beauty and its wide range of activities and attractions. There is something for everyone in Central Park – from playgrounds and bike paths to lakes and gardens. It’s also a great place to take a walk, bike, or have a picnic lunch.

13. Mochii

Our kids are always up for a treat, especially a cool treat when it is so hot outside. For an innovative new take on ice cream, we recommend Mochii. The ice cream and fruit are surrounded by a rice ball that gives you a unique and delicious flavor.

This is one of the many fun things to do with kids in NYC.

14. Times Square

Times Square is a good place to find fun things to do in NYC with kids

We recommend visiting Times Square just as it is getting dark. It is fun to watch all the bright lights come to life. The lights, street performers, and giant signs will keep your little ones entertained.

Make sure to check out the Hershey store and M&M store if you’re needing some bribery for the day. There is also a Disney store. The area is pedestrian-friendly, although it can be difficult to navigate a stroller around the crowds.

15. Bronx Zoo

Animal at the Bronx Zoo in New York City

The Bronx Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in America and is home to over 4,000 animals. The zoo is broken up into different zones, each with its own theme. There are also several rides and attractions, including a monorail and a safari bus.

The Bronx Zoo is a great place to spend a day, especially if the weather is nice. The zoo is huge, so you might want to consider renting a stroller or wagon if you didn’t bring your own.

There is even a petting zoo which is often our kids’ favorite part.

Book Tickets to the Bronx Zoo

16. Harbor Cruise

Parents in New York City skyline with kids

We went on our harbor cruise with Classic Harbor Line. This was one of our favorite fun things to do with kids in NYC. We went on the champagne sunset cruise, which was totally family-friendly.

It was a 1.75-hour tour that took us by all the major Lower Manhattan sites. Our kids loved pretending to be the captain of the boat, seeing the large buildings, and seeing the Statue of Liberty.

17. Staten Island Ferry

Staten Island Ferry in NYC

The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry that runs between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes and offers great views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

The Staten Island Ferry is a great way to see some of New York City’s most famous landmarks without spending any money. The ferry runs every 30 minutes, so you can easily fit it into your schedule.

18. Charging Bull

One of the quick things to do in NYC with kids is seeing the Charging Bull

Also known as the Wall Street Bull, the Charging Bull is found in the heart of NYC’s beautiful financial district. Our kids loved climbing on top of it, underneath it, and around it. They also loved the little girl statue and couldn’t wait to take a picture with it.

19. Lion King on Broadway

One of the fun things to do in NYC with kids is going to a Broadway show

If you are looking for something to do with kids in NYC that is a little more upscale, we recommend taking them to see The Lion King on Broadway. It is one of the great family things to do in NYC at night.

The Lion King is one of the most popular Broadway shows. The music, costumes, and set design are all incredible.

The Lion King is recommended for ages 6 and up, but if your kids are younger and don’t mind sitting for a bit, you will be fine. Children under 4 are not allowed in a Broadway show.

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20. Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway

Aladdin is a show in NYC that kids will enjoy

If your kids are Disney fanatics, then you definitely need to take them to see Disney’s Aladdin on Broadway. This show is spectacular and features all your favorite songs from the movie.

The dancing is amazing, and the costumes are fantastic. A Broadway musical is a fantastic experience.

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21. Story Time at the New York Public Library

Story time for kids at the New York City Public Library

The New York Public Library offers story times for kids throughout the week. We stopped by during story time, and my kids loved visiting. It is a beautiful building.

Even if you don’t make it to story time, they will love a visit to the New York Public Library. Say hello to Patience and Fortitude, the marble lions, on your way in, and be sure to check out the original Winnie the Pooh.

The library is full of fascinating books, beautiful architecture, and cool sculptures.

22. Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park in NYC

Washington Square Park is a public park in the Greenwich Village neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. It is located on the west side of Fifth Avenue at Washington Square South (West 4th Street). The 9.75-acre (39,500 m2) park is a fun attraction and home to the iconic Washington Square Arch at the northern gate on Fifth Avenue.

The arch is made of Tuckahoe marble and granite and was built in 1892 to commemorate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration. The park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New York City and is a great place to take kids.

23. Battery Park

Kids will have fun playing at Battery Park in New York City

Battery Park is a park located at the southern tip of Manhattan Island in New York City. The park is named for its location on the former site of Fort Amsterdam, which was used to defend the city from attacks by the British during the American Revolution.

Today, Battery Park is a popular destination, with attractions such as the Staten Island Ferry, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. The park is also a great place for kids to explore, with plenty of green space to run around in.

24. Union Square Park

Union Square Park in New York City

Union Square Park is located in the Union Square neighborhood of Manhattan, New York City. The park is home to a number of historical landmarks, including the Abraham Lincoln Statue, the Mahatma Gandhi Statue, and the Garibaldi Monument.

The park is also a popular destination for families, with a number of shops and restaurants located nearby. Union Square Park is a great place to take kids, with plenty of space to run around and enjoy the outdoors.

25. Jane’s Carousel

Jane's Carousel is one of the inexpensive things to do in NYC with kids

Jane’s Carousel is located in Brooklyn Bridge Park in the Brooklyn borough of New York City. The carousel is a restored 1922 vintage carousel and now sits in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Our girls love carousels, and we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to take a ride on a carousel in such a beautiful area.

The carousel is named after Jane Walentas, the wife of David Walentas, a real estate developer, in Brooklyn. She spent many years and an unknown amount of money restoring the carousel.

Our kids love carousels, and this one was no different. The views are fantastic, and the carousel is fun for the kids to ride on.

26. Museum of Ice Cream

Kids will love visiting the Museum of Ice Cream in NYC

The Museum of Ice Cream is a museum that is about ice cream. The museum is very unique because it is not only about ice cream but also has interactive exhibits. The Museum of Ice Cream is located in Manhattan, New York City.

Your entrance to the museum of ice cream includes ice cream and ice cream samples. It is a great place for kids and adults to play, with lots of fun exhibits for everyone.

27. Children’s Museum of the Arts

Art project at the Children's Museum of the Arts in NYC

The Children’s Museum of the Arts is a museum that is specifically for children. The museum offers a variety of art classes, workshops, and activities for children. The Children’s Museum of the Arts is located in Manhattan, New York City.

The museum has a variety of exhibits that are perfect for kids. They also offer art classes and workshops for kids to participate in. The Children’s Museum of the Arts is a great place for kids to explore their creativity.

Some of the best exhibits are the Clay Bar, where kids can get their hands dirty and make some art. The other exhibit that our kids loved was the Animation Studio, where they could create their own stop-motion animations.

28. New York City Fire Museum

One of the fun things to do in NYC with kids is visiting the NYC Fire Museum

The New York City Fire Museum is a museum that is specifically about the history of firefighting in New York City. The museum has a collection of fire equipment, artifacts, and documents. The New York City Fire Museum is located in Manhattan, New York City.

The museum offers a variety of exhibits that are perfect for kids. They also offer a variety of programs and events for kids to participate in.

Some of our favorite things to see are the old fire trucks and some of the tools they used to use many years ago while fighting fires.

For more about the New York City Fire Museum, visit their website.

29. FAO Schwarz

FAO Schwarz is the oldest toy store in America, and it’s a great place to take kids of all ages. The store offers a wide variety of toys, from traditional to modern.

The toy store first opened in 1862 and has been a staple in New York City ever since. In addition to its wide selection of toys, the store also offers interactive experiences, such as a giant piano that kids can play with.

It is fun to see all the different toys and to see something that has been part of NYC for 160 years and counting.

30. National Museum of Mathematics

The National Museum of Mathematics is a museum just for math. It is a great place to take kids who love math or for parents who want to show their kids that math is not all boring. The museum has interactive exhibits that make math fun.

Some of the exhibits include a life-sized game of chess that can be played with people or computers, a chance to ride a square-wheeled tricycle, and a giant pendulum that shows how math is used in the real world.

The National Museum of Mathematics is a great place for kids to learn about and explore math in a fun and interactive way.

31. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

Display at the Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum is a great place to take kids who are interested in history or science. The museum is located on an aircraft carrier, the Intrepid, which served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

It has a wide variety of exhibits, ranging from the history of the Intrepid to the science of space. The museum also offers interactive experiences, such as a chance to sit in the captain’s chair or to fly a simulator.

The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum is a great place to learn about history, science, and the military.

32. Roosevelt Tram

Roosevelt Tram in NYC

The Roosevelt Tram is a great way to see the city from above. The tram takes you from Midtown Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, which is located in the East River.

The Roosevelt Tram is a great way to see the city and visit Roosevelt Island, which is a great place for kids. The tram runs every 15 minutes, so it is easy to get to and from the island.

If your kids are under 44 inches, they can ride for free. If they are taller than 44 inches, they have to pay the adult fare. The tram can be a fun way to see the city from a different vantage point.

33. Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is a great place for kids to learn and play. The museum has five floors of interactive exhibits, ranging from Adventures With Dora and Diego, Create Climb, and collaborate to Early Learning City, where you get to be a comic book hero.

You can climb to the top of a treehouse headquarters or experience the Dynamic H2O exhibit, where you learn about water systems and play with the new 22-foot-long water table.

We love hands-on exhibits, and they are such fun things to do in NYC with kids. You will love all the things you can touch and play with.

34. Brooklyn Bridge Park

Kids and toddlers will have fun playing at the Brooklyn Bridge Park in NYC

Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great place to take kids of all ages. The park is fun to explore. You can play basketball, ride bikes or walk along the water. The park also has a playground and a carousel.

Many events take place in the park, such as concerts, movies, and festivals. The park is a great place to spend a day with kids.

35. New York Aquarium

Penguin at the New York Aquarium

The New York Aquarium is a great place to take kids. The aquarium has over 14,000 animals, ranging from fish to penguins. The aquarium also has a 4D theater and a shark tank.

The New York Aquarium is a great place to learn about animals and their habitats. The aquarium is also a great place to take kids on a hot day, as it is air-conditioned.

You can also book separate up-close encounters with many different animals, from sea lions up to penguins. Check out the New York Aquarium to see some great animals.

36. Day Trip to Washington DC

While NYC has many fun activities, it is close to another great city in Washington D.C. If you are looking for things to do with kids in NYC and want to mix it up a bit, consider taking a day trip to explore Washington D.C. where you can see the constitution and visit numerous museums for free.

This Washington DC tour will take you from NYC to DC, and it is around 11 to 13 hours long, so you would need to prepare for a pretty long trip. They make stops at many of the famous monuments, the White House, Arlington Cemetery, and more.

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If you’re worried about the long day with your kids, you can take the bus down yourself and spend a night or two there. We took the bus from NYC to Washington, DC, with our kids, and it was a great experience. Check out our Washington DC weekend itinerary guide for more information about what to do when you get there.

37. Hop-On Hop-Off Open Bus Tour

One of the best ways to see NYC is by taking a Hop-On Hop-Off Open Bus Tour. This tour allows you to see the city at your own pace. You can get on and off the bus as many times as you want, which makes it a great way to get around town if you don’t want to use the subway or ride-shares.

A good way to get around in NYC with kids is the Hop-on Hop-off Bus

The bus tour covers all of the major attractions in NYC. The bus tour is a great way to see the city and learn about the history of NYC.

The tour is also a great way to see the city driving past the most famous sites where you can get off, explore and then get back on when you are ready to keep going. Some prefer to just ride the bus through the city. Either way, it is something that can work for multiple styles.

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38. Walk the High Line

High Line in NYC

The High Line is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the city. It is an elevated park that was built on an old railway on Manhattan’s West Side. The High Line is a hybrid-type area with nature, art, and a creative design.

There are elevators located in multiple locations that will take you onto the railway. Walk The High Line is very unique, and since it was built on an old railway line, it has some interesting history. It is great when something like this gets a new purpose into something people enjoy making a great experience and story.

If you are in the area, give it a try.

Where to Stay in NYC with Kids

Hilton Garden Inn Times Square

Hotel room at the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square

If you’re looking for a place to stay in NYC with kids, the Hilton Garden Inn Times Square is a great option. The hotel is located in the heart of Times Square and is close to many of the city’s attractions. The hotel has a pool and a fitness center and offers free Wi-Fi.

You will be very close to many of the fun attractions for you and your family. They have multiple different room configurations to fit you and your family’s needs that are comfortable and very stylish.

Check Rates & Book: Hilton Garden Inn Times Square

The Muse Hotel

The Muse Hotel in NYC

The Muse Hotel is a great option for a place to stay in NYC with kids. The hotel is located in Midtown Manhattan. The hotel has a rooftop bar and offers free Wi-Fi.

The Muse Hotel is in a perfect location. You are close to many attractions, great food, and more. The hotel is also very stylish, with some great kid perks like cribs, kids’ scooters, and free bike use.

Their gym even has hula hoops so the kids can play while you work out or try your hand at some good old-fashioned hula hooping.

Check Rates & Book: Muse Hotel

Hotel Beacon

Hotel Beacon is a great hotel in NYC for kids

Hotel Beacon is another great option for a place to stay in NYC with kids. The hotel is located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The hotel has a rooftop terrace and offers free Wi-Fi.

The Hotel Beacon is in a great location if you want to be on the Upper West Side. The location is also very convenient because it is near public transportation. The Beacon is also a family-owned hotel, so they offer some great family packages.

The views at the Beacon are great, and they have suites with kitchenettes and self-operated laundry that make you feel like you are at home with your family.

Check Rates & Book: Hotel Beacon

The Roxy Hotel New York

The Roxy Hotel in NYC

The Roxy Hotel New York is a great option for those looking for family-friendly hotels in NYC. The hotel offers a number of amenities and activities that are perfect for families, including a rooftop pool, babysitting services, and a kids’ menu at the on-site restaurant.

Plus, the Roxy is centrally located in the city, making it easy to get to all of the best attractions and activities that NYC has to offer.

They have an old school cinema where you can watch different films that range from new films to independent and even some foreign films. The rooms are gorgeous, with multiple options and even ADA-accessible rooms.

The hotel is located in Tribeca, which is home to some of the best restaurants, cafes, and bars in the city. You’re also just a short walk away from attractions like the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Freedom Tower, and Battery Park.

Check Rates & Book: The Roxy Hotel New York

Things to Pack

Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes are a must. If you are exploring NYC, chances are you will walk a good distance. There is not really any way to prevent that. The parks require walking, and the museums and many other similar activities require you to travel a decent distance.

Keep your comfy shoes on, and you will be a happy camper.

Weather Appropriate Clothing

NYC weather can be cold, or it can be hot depending on the time of year you are visiting. Make sure you take a look at the weather so you know what you should bring.

Packing cubes

If you are a person who likes some type of organization, we highly recommend packing cubes. Your suitcase and bags are hard to keep organized, but packing cubes make all of that so easy. Once you start using them, you will never want to go back.

SHOP Packing Cubes

Hand Sanitizer

If you worry about germs, hand sanitizer is something you may want in NYC. There are so many people touching all the same rails and subway space you may want some sanitizer or just make sure you wash your hands periodically.

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New York City-Specific Apps

There are a few different apps that can be helpful when visiting NYC. These will make navigating the subways and getting around town much easier.

Central Park has a lot of fun things to do in NYC with kids

Here are a few of our favorites:

✔ NYC Taxi App: This app will help you hail a taxi in NYC. It also includes a map with the location of all the city’s taxis.

✔ MTA Subway App: This app provides real-time information on subway arrival times and service advisories.

✔ Google Maps: This app is great for getting around NYC, as it offers walking, biking, and public transit directions.

✔ New York City Official Visitor App: This app includes information on attractions, restaurants, nightlife, and more.

Getting Around NYC with Kids

Once you arrive in New York City, you will find there are a variety of options for getting around the city. New York has an extensive public transportation system, including the subway, metro, and bus. Public transportation is the most cost-effective means of getting where you need to go.

We used the subway throughout our trip. Some of our rides on the subway were painless and easy. Some were terrible because we ended up going the wrong way, or they were express subways. There can also be a long wait, depending on the subway line you are on.

Kids in a museum in NYC

It was also difficult for us to carry our double stroller up and down the subway stairs. If you are not familiar with the subway, we would recommend not planning on using it too much.

The easiest way for us to get around the city was by Uber or LYFT. There was little to no wait, and we didn’t have to worry about navigating to where we wanted to go. This is a little more expensive option compared to public transportation, but the convenience for our family made it worth the cost.

One thing we would have done differently was to use Uber more often.

The least favorable option would be to rent a car. Car rentals are expensive, and parking is a nightmare. There are also expensive tolls depending on how far you are driving.

FAQs: Things to Do in NYC with Kids

Family with kids near the Statues of Liberty

Is NYC child friendly?

Yes, NYC is a great place to take your children. There are lots of things for kids to do in the city, and it’s very easy to get around with public transportation and Uber or Lyft.

Is NYC good for families?

Yes, NYC is a great place for families. There are so many fun things to do in NYC with kids. There are also a variety of affordable accommodations and restaurants that are family-friendly. When we first debated taking our kids, we saw mixed reviews about kids and NYC. We found these completely unfounded.

Just because you have kids does not mean you should limit where you go. We took our kids to NYC, and everyone had a great time.

Kids at DUMBO

Is Central Park good for kids?

Central Park is a great place for kids. There are lots of things to do there, like walking, biking, and playing games. Central Park is huge, so it’s a great place to explore. Our kids loved exploring Central Park. If you don’t want to walk, rent a bike or take a bike taxi through it.

Conclusion: Things to do in NYC with Kids

NYC is a great place for kids. There are lots of things to do in the city, and it’s very easy to get around with public transportation and Uber or Lyft. We hope these recommendations help you and your family with a great stay in NYC. We had a great time as a family exploring this unique and beautiful city.

Picture of the New York City skyline

3 Comments

    1. Those along with Central Park were our kids’ favorite part of New York City. It’s also fun when we watch a show that takes place in NYC and the kids recognize that they have been there.

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