things to do in nyc as a family of 5
The city that never sleeps is a fantastic destination for a family vacation. As a family of five, you’ll find plenty of exciting and kid-friendly activities to enjoy together in New York City. Here are some top recommendations:
Iconic Landmarks and Attractions:
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see the iconic statue up close and visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
- Central Park: Explore the park’s many playgrounds, rent bikes, or take a leisurely stroll through the scenic paths.
- Times Square: Catch the bright lights and bustling energy of the "Crossroads of the World."
- Empire State Building: Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 86th floor.
- 9/11 Memorial & Museum: A poignant tribute to the victims of the 9/11 attacks.
Museums and Galleries:
- American Museum of Natural History: Discover dinosaurs, space exhibits, and much more.
- Children’s Museum of the Arts: Encourage creativity with interactive art exhibits.
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Explore an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
- Guggenheim Museum: Marvel at the unique architecture and contemporary art exhibitions.
- New York Hall of Science: Engage in hands-on science experiments and activities.
Broadway Shows and Entertainment:
- Disney on Broadway: Catch a performance of Aladdin, The Lion King, or Frozen.
- Wicked: A classic Broadway musical suitable for older kids and teens.
- The Blue Man Group: An interactive and entertaining show for all ages.
- Madame Tussauds Wax Museum: Get up close and personal with wax figures of famous celebrities.
- Radio City Music Hall: Take a guided tour or catch a performance of the Rockettes.
Food and Markets:
- Smorgasburg: A weekend market in Brooklyn featuring local food vendors and artisanal goods.
- Chelsea Market: Explore the indoor market with a variety of food options and shopping.
- Katz’s Delicatessen: A classic Jewish deli on the Lower East Side.
- Serendipity 3: A whimsical ice cream parlor and dessert shop.
- Lombardi’s Pizza: America’s first pizzeria, serving up classic Neapolitan-style pies.
Other Fun Activities:
- Top of the Rock Observation Deck: Enjoy stunning views of the city from the 70th floor.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Take a walk across the iconic bridge for spectacular city views.
- Coney Island: Visit the famous boardwalk, amusement parks, and beaches.
- New York Botanical Garden: Explore the beautiful gardens and glasshouses.
- Bronx Zoo: Home to over 6,000 animals from around the world.
Remember to plan ahead, book tickets and reservations in advance, and consider purchasing a sightseeing pass to save time and money. With so much to see and do, your family of five is sure to have an unforgettable adventure in New York City!