New York City, the city that never sleeps, is also a fantastic playground for families! From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the Big Apple offers a wealth of experiences that will delight kids of all ages and create lasting memories. As parents raising our children in Manhattan, we’ve explored countless corners of this vibrant city and curated a list of our absolute favorite Family Things To Do In New York.
Forget the aimless wandering (though that has its own charm!). We’re sharing our go-to spots and insider tips to help you plan an unforgettable NYC adventure with your little ones. Just like our family weekends that often start with a stroll from our Lower Manhattan home up to the green oasis of Central Park, this guide will take you on a journey through the best family-friendly destinations the city has to offer.
Here are our top recommendations for family things to do in New York City, perfect for creating magical moments with your children.
A Pro-Tip for Parents: Public restrooms can be scarce in NYC unless you are a paying customer. When you spot a restroom, especially with young children, take advantage of it! Bryant Park, located at 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, usually offers reliably clean public facilities.
Exploring Central Park with Kids
Central Park is a sprawling wonderland in the heart of Manhattan, offering endless opportunities for family fun. We could spend entire days discovering new corners of this urban oasis! Here are some highlights perfect for families:
Central Park Zoo: Wildlife Encounters
A visit to the Central Park Zoo is a classic family outing. While not the largest zoo, it’s perfectly manageable for a family with young children and features diverse animals from around the world. Kids will be thrilled to see snow monkeys, sea lions, penguins, and a variety of birds in their naturalistic habitats.
Snow monkeys playfully interact in their habitat at the Central Park Zoo, a captivating scene for children.
Central Park Playgrounds: Adventure Around Every Corner
Central Park boasts an impressive number of playgrounds, each with its own unique charm. Heckscher Playground, one of the oldest and largest, is a favorite with its classic swings, slides, and climbing structures. Keep an eye out as you explore – you’re sure to stumble upon a playground perfectly suited for a spontaneous play break.
Model Boat Sailing Pond: All Aboard for Fun
Known affectionately as the “Stewart Little Pond” by many families, the Conservatory Water, or Model Boat Sailing Pond, is a delightful spot to watch model sailboats glide across the water. You can even rent a boat and let your little captain take the helm! It’s a wonderfully relaxing and visually engaging activity for children.
Bethesda Terrace and Fountain: Bubbles and Street Art
Bethesda Terrace, with its iconic fountain and stunning architecture, is always a lively place. Street performers, often bubble artists creating giant, shimmering spheres, entertain crowds. It’s a beautiful spot to pause, people-watch, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Central Park.
A family enjoys the lively atmosphere of Bethesda Terrace in Central Park, watching bubble artists and soaking in the urban scenery.
Bow Bridge: Scenic Views and Wildlife Spotting
Bow Bridge, with its graceful arches, is not only a picturesque landmark but also a fantastic spot for family fun. From here, you can enjoy beautiful views of the lake and surrounding parkland, and keep an eye out for ducks, turtles, and other wildlife that call Central Park home.
The Ramble: Nature Trails in the City
For a more outdoorsy experience, explore The Ramble. This wooded area feels a bit wilder and offers winding paths that are perfect for adventurous kids to explore. Let them lead the way and discover hidden corners of this unique part of the park.
Sheep Meadow: Room to Run and Play
Sheep Meadow is a vast expanse of green lawn, ideal for kids to run, play frisbee, or simply spread out a blanket for a relaxing picnic. It’s a wonderful open space to let children burn off some energy in the midst of the city.
Central Park Carousel: A Classic Ride
No visit to Central Park is complete without a ride on the historic Central Park Carousel. This beautifully restored carousel is a timeless attraction that will bring smiles to faces of all ages.
Must-Visit Museums for Families in NYC
New York City is a museum mecca, and many of its institutions are incredibly welcoming to families. Here are some top museum choices that cater to children’s interests:
American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs and Wonders of the World
The American Museum of Natural History is a must-see for families. Kids are instantly captivated by the towering dinosaur skeletons, impressive whale exhibit, and diverse halls showcasing cultures and ecosystems from around the globe. The museum offers age-appropriate exhibits and activities, making learning fun for all.
The Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art): Knights and Ancient Worlds
While it might seem daunting to visit a vast art museum with children, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has plenty to offer young visitors. Kids often love the Arms and Armor galleries with knights and medieval weaponry, as well as the Egyptian art and artifacts. Look for family programs and tours designed to engage children.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM): Interactive Learning
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is specifically designed for children, with interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. From early childhood development areas to exhibits focused on culture and the arts, CMOM provides enriching experiences for various age groups.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: Explore a Real Aircraft Carrier
Located on Pier 86 along the Hudson River, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is a thrilling experience for families. Explore the aircraft carrier Intrepid, see the Space Shuttle Enterprise, and marvel at a Concorde supersonic jet. Kids who love boats, planes, and space will be in awe.
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum offers families an exciting opportunity to explore a real aircraft carrier and historical aircraft.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum: Culture and Creativity
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is another fantastic option, known for its innovative and hands-on exhibits. It focuses on cultural understanding, science exploration, and creative expression, offering a diverse range of activities for children of all backgrounds.
New York Transit Museum: Underground Adventures
For something a bit different, head to the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn Heights. Housed in a decommissioned subway station, this museum allows kids to explore vintage subway cars, learn about the history of the NYC subway system, and even “drive” a bus simulator. It’s a unique and engaging experience, especially for transportation enthusiasts.
Family Fun in Brooklyn
A trip to NYC isn’t complete without venturing into Brooklyn! Here are some family-friendly highlights in this vibrant borough:
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge: Iconic Views and Exercise
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is a quintessential NYC experience, and it’s surprisingly manageable with kids. The pedestrian walkway offers stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the harbor. You can walk partway or the entire length, making it adaptable to different energy levels.
A family strolls across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge pedestrian walkway, enjoying the stunning Manhattan skyline views.
Pebble Beach: Rock-Tossing Fun
Located in Brooklyn Bridge Park, Pebble Beach is a unique and simple pleasure. Kids (and adults!) can spend ages tossing rocks into the East River, enjoying the satisfying splash and the beautiful waterfront views. It’s a relaxing and surprisingly engaging activity.
Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park: Waterfront Charm
Also in Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel is a beautifully restored vintage carousel housed in a stunning glass pavilion. Riding this carousel with the Manhattan skyline as a backdrop is a truly magical experience. The park itself offers playgrounds, green spaces, and walking paths, making it a perfect family destination.
Iconic Viewpoints for Family Photos
For breathtaking views of the city skyline, consider visiting one of these iconic viewpoints – each offering a unique perspective:
Empire State Building: Classic and Iconic
The Empire State Building is a timeless classic for a reason. Recently renovated, the experience of going to the top is now even more engaging, with interactive exhibits and, of course, unparalleled city views. While not everyone’s favorite view of the city, its iconic status makes it a must-do for many families.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: Immersive and Interactive
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt offers a more modern and interactive viewpoint experience. With mirrored rooms, glass floors, and stunning views, it’s a visually captivating and somewhat thrilling experience, especially for older children and teens.
Top of the Rock: Central Park Views and More
Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center provides arguably the best panoramic views of the city, including stunning perspectives of Central Park and the Empire State Building itself. It’s a classic choice for a reason and remains a family favorite.
One World Observatory: Downtown Majesty
Located atop One World Trade Center, One World Observatory offers breathtaking downtown views, including a poignant perspective of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The modern skyscraper and sweeping vistas are impressive.
The Edge at Hudson Yards: Thrilling Heights
The Edge at Hudson Yards boasts the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, with a glass floor and angled glass walls for a truly unique and slightly vertigo-inducing perspective. It’s perfect for adventurous families seeking an unforgettable view.
Stroll-Worthy Neighborhoods for Families
Exploring different neighborhoods on foot is one of the best ways to experience the true character of NYC. Here are some of our favorite stroller-friendly and family-appealing neighborhoods:
- Greenwich Village & West Village: Charming streets, independent shops, parks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Meatpacking District & Chelsea: Trendy, pedestrian-friendly areas with art galleries, the High Line, and family-friendly restaurants.
- SoHo: Known for its cast-iron architecture and shopping, though can be very crowded.
- Gramercy: Elegant and residential, with the beautiful Gramercy Park (private, but lovely to walk around).
- Hell’s Kitchen: Diverse dining options and increasingly family-friendly.
- Upper West Side & Upper East Side: Residential neighborhoods with museums, parks, and a classic NYC feel.
- 5th Avenue (between 42nd and 59th): Iconic shopping experience, especially magical during the Christmas holidays with festive window displays.
More Family-Friendly Activities in NYC
Beyond the major attractions, NYC offers a treasure trove of other activities perfect for families:
- Playgrounds Galore: NYC is a playground paradise! Beyond Central Park, explore Battery Park (with the Seaglass Carousel and slides), Hudson River Park’s Pier 51, East River Park Playground, Brooklyn Bridge Playground, and Chelsea Waterside Playground – just to name a few favorites.
- The High Line: This elevated park built on former railway lines offers car-free walking paths, public art installations, and unique city views. It’s stroller-friendly and a refreshing escape.
- Broadway & Off-Broadway for Kids: While Broadway might be for older kids, look for Off-Off Broadway productions geared towards younger audiences, particularly in the Village area.
- Classic Harbor Line Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around Manhattan with Classic Harbor Line. These cruises offer stunning views, complimentary drinks, and are a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective. Bring snacks for the kids!
- Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park: This unique carousel features illuminated, fish-shaped seats instead of horses, creating an underwater fantasy experience.
- Bronx Zoo: While a bit further afield, the Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, with vast habitats and a wide array of animals.
- NYPL Reading Times: Check the New York Public Library branches near you for free children’s reading times and story hours – a cozy and enriching local experience.
- Alice’s Tea Cup: This whimsical tea room is a fun and casual spot for afternoon tea with kids, offering a kid-friendly menu and charming atmosphere.
- South Street Seaport: Explore this historic waterfront area with cobblestone streets, shops, restaurants, and maritime history.
- Meatpacking District Pedestrian Streets: Many streets in the Meatpacking District are pedestrian-only, making it a pleasant area to walk around with kids and find outdoor dining options.
- Times Square: Love it or hate it, Times Square is a sensory overload that can be quite the spectacle for young children (especially during a first visit). A quick walk-through can be an eye-opening experience.
New York City is truly a city for everyone, including families. With a little planning and this guide in hand, you’re sure to create an unforgettable NYC adventure filled with family fun and cherished memories. Start planning your family things to do in New York today!
