things to do in nyc with kids
New York City is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that cater to kids of all ages. Here are some exciting things to do in NYC with kids:
Outdoor Activities:
- Central Park: A must-visit destination for kids, with playgrounds, lakes, and plenty of green space for picnics and exploration.
- High Line: An elevated park built on an old rail line, offering stunning views of the city and a unique playground experience.
- Brooklyn Bridge Park: A waterfront park with playgrounds, a carousel, and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Rockefeller Center Ice Rink: A classic NYC experience, where kids can ice skate and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Museums and Galleries:
- American Museum of Natural History: Home to over 30 million specimens, including dinosaur fossils and a giant blue whale.
- Children’s Museum of the Arts: A interactive museum where kids can create art and explore their imagination.
- New York Hall of Science: A hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits and experiments.
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A world-renowned art museum with family-friendly tours and activities.
Theme Parks and Amusement:
- Coney Island: A classic NYC beachside destination with an amusement park, boardwalk, and iconic landmarks like the Cyclone roller coaster.
- Madame Tussauds Wax Museum: A fun and interactive museum where kids can meet their favorite celebrities and characters.
- Sesame Place: A theme park designed for young children, with rides, shows, and character meet-and-greets.
- LegoLand Discovery Center: An indoor theme park with rides, 4D movies, and play areas.
Other Attractions:
- The 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.
- Times Square: A bustling area with bright lights, giant billboards, and street performers.
- Broadway Shows: Catch a family-friendly musical or play on Broadway, such as Aladdin or The Lion King.
- NYC Zoo: A 6.1-acre zoo in Central Park with over 6,000 animals from around the world.
Seasonal Events:
- Christmas Markets: Visit the Union Square Holiday Market or the Bryant Park Winter Village for festive shopping and food.
- Summer Concerts: Enjoy outdoor concerts in Central Park or at the Brooklyn Bridge Park.
- Halloween Parade: Join the iconic Halloween parade in Greenwich Village.
- New Year’s Eve Ball Drop: Watch the famous ball drop in Times Square on New Year’s Eve.
These are just a few of the many things to do in NYC with kids. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to create lifelong memories with your little ones!