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New York City is an exciting destination for families with kids of all ages. The city offers a variety of attractions that cater to the interests of children, from museums and parks to zoos and amusement parks. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to take your kids. To help you plan your trip, we have compiled a list of the 11 best places to take kids in New York.
One of the most iconic attractions in New York City is the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. This is a must-see for families visiting the city for the first time. Kids will love the ferry ride to the islands and the opportunity to learn about the history of immigration in the United States.
The American Museum of Natural History is another popular destination for families. The museum has an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils, as well as exhibits on space, oceans, and animals.
If your kids love animals, the Bronx Zoo is a great place to visit. The zoo has over 4,000 animals from around the world, including tigers, gorillas, and polar bears. Another fun outdoor destination is Central Park. The park has a variety of playgrounds, walking paths, and open spaces for kids to run around and explore. These are just a few of the many great places to take kids in New York City.
Central Park Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun day out with your kids, the Central Park Zoo is a great choice. Here are some highlights of what you can expect.
Animal Exhibits
The Central Park Zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world.
- Snow leopards
- Red pandas
- Penguins
- Sea lions
- And more!
Be sure to check the schedule for feeding times and other special events.
Tisch Children’s Zoo
The Tisch Children’s Zoo is a great place for younger kids to explore and learn about animals.
- Crawl through a tunnel to see prairie dogs up close
- Pet goats and sheep
- Watch chickens and ducks
- And more!
4-D Theater
The 4-D Theater at the Central Park Zoo is a unique experience that combines a 3-D movie with special effects like wind, water, and even smells! The movies change regularly, so be sure to check the schedule for what’s playing.
The Central Park Zoo one of the best places to take kids in New York for a fun and educational day out.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for families with kids in New York City. The museum is home to an extensive collection of natural history exhibits, including dinosaurs, space, and marine life.
Dinosaur Exhibit
The dinosaur exhibit is one of the most popular attractions at the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibit features a wide range of dinosaur skeletons, including the famous Tyrannosaurus Rex and the Stegosaurus. The exhibit is interactive and educational, with many hands-on activities for kids to learn about the science of paleontology.
Space Show
The Space Show at the American Museum of Natural History is an immersive experience that takes visitors on a journey through the universe. The show features stunning visuals and state-of-the-art technology to bring the wonders of space to life. Kids will love learning about the planets, stars, and galaxies in our solar system.
The American Museum of Natural History is a fantastic destination for families with kids in New York City. With its extensive collection of natural history exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs, the museum is sure to provide a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is one of the most popular places for kids and families in New York. With over 250 acres of land, it is the largest metropolitan zoo in the United States. Here are some highlights of the zoo that you and your kids will surely enjoy.
Children’s Zoo
The Children’s Zoo is a must-visit for families with young children. It is a great place for kids to get up close and personal with some of the zoo’s smaller animals. You can see a giant anteater, prairie dogs, a sloth, alpacas, and even pet sheep, goats, and donkeys at the farmyard. There are also interactive exhibits that teach kids about conservation and the environment.
Butterfly Garden
The Butterfly Garden is a beautiful and serene area of the zoo where you can see hundreds of butterflies from all over the world. The garden is a great place for kids to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and how they play an important role in the ecosystem. You can also see other insects and plants that are important to the butterfly’s habitat.
The Bronx Zoo is a great place to take your kids for an educational and fun day out. With so many animals and exhibits to see, you can easily spend a whole day exploring the zoo. Don’t forget to check out the zoo’s website for seasonal events and special exhibits.
New York Aquarium
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, the New York Aquarium is a must-visit destination. Located in Coney Island, this aquarium is the oldest continually running aquarium in America and is widely considered the best aquarium in NYC.
The New York Aquarium offers a variety of exhibits and activities for kids of all ages. One of the most popular exhibits is Ocean Wonders: Sharks! This 57,000-square-foot exhibit space features a stunning underwater tunnel that immerses visitors into the seascape. Kids can also interact with bamboo and epaulette sharks in the Touch Pool and learn more about the sea creatures.
Beyond the Sharks exhibit, there are plenty of other reasons to visit the New York Aquarium. The Aquatheater is a great place to catch a sea lion show, and the Sea Cliffs exhibit features sea otters, penguins, and more. The Conservation Hall is another must-visit exhibit, where kids can learn about the importance of protecting marine life and the environment.
Admission to the New York Aquarium is $29.95 for adults and $24.95 for children ages 3-12. Children under 2 are free. Parking is available for $20 on a first-come, first-served basis, but you can also take public transportation to get there. Single and double strollers are available to rent, which can come in handy at an aquarium as expansive as this one.
The New York Aquarium is a great place to take your kids for a fun and educational day out. With its stunning exhibits and interactive activities, it’s sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
Coney Island
Coney Island is a classic destination for families with kids in New York City. With its iconic boardwalk, amusement park rides, and sandy beaches, it offers a fun-filled day for everyone.
Luna Park
Luna Park is an amusement park located in Coney Island. It has a variety of rides and attractions for kids of all ages.
| Ride Name | Description |
|---|---|
| Cyclone | A classic wooden roller coaster that has been thrilling visitors since 1927 |
| Thunderbolt | A steel coaster with a 125-foot drop and multiple inversions |
| Coney Island Raceway | A go-kart track with single and double cars |
| B&B Carousel | A beautifully restored 1919 carousel with 50 hand-carved horses |
New York Aquarium
The New York Aquarium one of the greatest places to take kids who love marine life. It has a variety of exhibits and interactive experiences that allow visitors to get up close and personal with sea creatures.
- Ocean Wonders: Sharks! – A massive exhibit featuring over 115 species of marine life, including sand tiger sharks, sea turtles, and rays.
- Sea Cliffs – An exhibit that showcases the coastal habitats of California sea lions, harbor seals, and sea otters.
- Glover’s Reef – A coral reef exhibit that features colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a replica of a Belizean fishing village.
- Interactive Touch Pools – Visitors can touch and learn about horseshoe crabs, sea stars, and other creatures in these hands-on exhibits.
Whether you’re riding roller coasters or exploring marine life, Coney Island is a must-visit destination for families with kids in New York City.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids in New York City, a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a must. The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and liberty known worldwide and a World Heritage Site, while Ellis Island is a historic site that served as the gateway for millions of immigrants to the United States.
To get to both islands, you’ll need to take a ferry operated by Statue Cruises, which departs from Battery Park in Manhattan and Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Your round-trip ferry ticket includes access to the grounds of both islands, but if you want to climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty or visit the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, you’ll need to purchase additional tickets.
Once you arrive at Liberty Island, you can take a self-guided tour of the grounds and explore the museum, which tells the story of the statue’s construction and history. If you’ve purchased a crown ticket, you’ll need to climb a steep spiral staircase to reach the top, but the view from the crown is worth the effort.
Ellis Island is home to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, which tells the story of the millions of immigrants who passed through the island on their way to a new life in the United States. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and personal stories of immigrants, making it a great educational experience for kids.
A visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a great way to teach your kids about American history and the importance of freedom and liberty.
Times Square
If you’re visiting New York with kids, Times Square is a must-visit destination. The bustling commercial and entertainment hub is packed with attractions, shops, and restaurants that are sure to keep your little ones entertained. Here are a couple of places you should check out while you’re there:
M&M’s World
M&M’s World is a colorful, multi-level store that’s dedicated to all things M&M’s. The store features a range of M&M’s merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and toys. The highlight of the store is the wall of M&M’s, which features tubes filled with M&M’s in every color of the rainbow. Your kids will love filling up a bag with their favorite colors and flavors.
Toys ‘R’ Us
Toys ‘R’ Us is a massive toy store that’s located in the heart of Times Square. The store features a range of toys, games, and collectibles that are sure to delight kids of all ages. The store also has a Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city skyline. Your kids will love riding the Ferris wheel and picking out their favorite toys.
Overall, Times Square is a great place to take kids in New York. With its bright lights, bustling crowds, and endless entertainment options, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is a must-visit destination for families with kids in New York. This iconic landmark in Midtown Manhattan offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are sure to keep your little ones entertained for hours. Here are two of the top things to do at Rockefeller Center with kids:
Top of the Rock
One of the most popular attractions at Rockefeller Center is the Top of the Rock observation deck. This stunning observation deck offers breathtaking views of the city skyline from 70 stories above the ground. Your kids will love taking in the panoramic views of the city and spotting famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty.
To make the most of your visit to Top of the Rock, consider purchasing a VIP ticket that includes priority access to the observation deck, as well as a guided tour of the Rockefeller Center. You can also take advantage of the multimedia tour that includes interactive exhibits and fun facts about the history of the Rockefeller Center.
FAO Schwarz
Another must-visit destination at Rockefeller Center is FAO Schwarz, the world-famous toy store that has been delighting kids of all ages for over a century. This iconic toy store offers a wide range of toys, games, and activities that are sure to keep your little ones entertained for hours.
Some of the highlights of FAO Schwarz include the giant piano that Tom Hanks famously played in the movie “Big,” as well as the life-size stuffed animals and interactive displays. Your kids will love exploring the store and discovering all of the fun toys and games that are available.
In addition to shopping, FAO Schwarz also offers a range of interactive experiences and workshops that are perfect for kids. Some of the most popular experiences include the Build-A-Bear Workshop, where kids can create their own stuffed animals, and the Candy Bar, where they can indulge in a wide range of sweet treats.
Rockefeller Center is a fantastic destination for families with kids in New York. With its stunning views, iconic landmarks, and fun-filled attractions, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip to the Big Apple.
Madame Tussauds New York
If you are looking for a fun day out with your kids in New York, Madame Tussauds New York is a great option. This museum of wax figures features A-list celebrities from films, music, sport, television, science, and culture. You and your kids can get up close and personal with your favorite stars, take photos with them, and even touch their wax figures.
Madame Tussauds New York is located in the heart of Times Square, making it a convenient stop during your family’s tour of the city. The museum is open seven days a week, and the best time to visit is during weekdays to avoid the crowds.
Here are some details you should know before visiting Madame Tussauds New York with your kids:
| Admission Prices |
|---|
| Adults (13+) |
| Kids (3-12) |
| Toddlers (0-2) |
There are also combo tickets available that include entry to the museum and other attractions in the city.
One of the highlights of Madame Tussauds New York is the Marvel Universe 4D experience, where your family can watch your favorite superheroes come to life in a 4D movie. The museum also features a 7D Clown Chaos experience, where you and your kids can enjoy a thrilling ride.
Madame Tussauds New York is one of the perfect places to take your kids for a fun and interactive experience with their favorite celebrities.
New York Hall of Science
If you’re looking for a fun and educational experience for your kids, the New York Hall of Science is a must-visit. Located in Flushing, Queens, this science and technology center features over 450 interactive exhibits, workshops, and activities that are perfect for kids of all ages.
One of the most popular exhibits at the New York Hall of Science is Connected Worlds, where kids can build a virtual ecosystem using teamwork and STEM knowledge to produce and sustain plants, animals, and more.
Another favorite exhibit is Powering the City, which teaches children how energy transforms and works to power their lives and keep the city going. Guests can arrange wires on a map to connect each of NYC’s boroughs to electrical energy sources.
In addition to the exhibits, the New York Hall of Science also offers a variety of workshops and demonstrations that are both fun and educational. For example, your kids can learn how to code, create their own animations, or even build their own robots.
If your kids love mini-golf, be sure to check out Rocket Park Mini Golf, where they can explore scientific concepts while playing a round of golf. And if you need a break from all the science, you can head to the Science Playground, an outdoor play area that features water play, sandboxes, and more.
The New York Hall of Science is a fantastic place to take your kids for a day of learning and fun. With so many exhibits and activities to choose from, your kids will never get bored.
Final Thoughts on the 11 Best Places to Take Kids in New York
New York City is a fantastic destination one of the best places for families with kids of all ages. With an endless array of attractions, museums, parks, and outdoor activities, there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
From the iconic Empire State Building to the natural beauty of Central Park, the city offers countless opportunities for adventure and exploration. And beyond the city limits, there are many other family-friendly destinations to discover, such as the Catskills, Niagara Falls, and the Adirondacks.
When planning your family vacation to New York, consider visiting some of the top-rated attractions, such as the American Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Lower East Side Tenement Museum. These museums offer engaging and interactive exhibits that are sure to captivate the attention of kids and adults alike.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, consider visiting Central Park, Green Lakes State Park, or Mohonk Preserve. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, boating, and swimming, that are perfect for families with active kids.
And if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting some of the free attractions in the city, such as the High Line, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Staten Island Ferry. These attractions offer stunning views of the city and are a great way to experience New York without breaking the bank.
New York is a great destination for families with kids, offering a wide range of activities and attractions that are sure to create lasting memories. So start planning your family vacation today and discover all that this amazing city has to offer!
Frequently Asked Questions about the 11 Best Places to Take Kids in New York
What are some affordable family-friendly activities in New York City?
New York City offers a variety of affordable family-friendly places for kids. Visiting Central Park is a great way to spend the day with your family. You can have a picnic, ride bikes, visit a zoo, or take a boat ride. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan and the Brooklyn Children’s Museum are also great options for families on a budget.
What are the best places to take kids for a 3-day trip to NYC?
If you’re planning a 3-day trip to NYC with your kids, there are plenty of attractions to keep them entertained. The American Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building are all must-see attractions. You can also take them to see a Broadway show, visit the Central Park Zoo, or explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
What are some free family activities to do in NYC this weekend?
There are many free family activities to do in NYC this weekend. You can take a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, visit the High Line, or explore the New York Public Library. You can also take your kids to a free concert or movie in the park, or visit one of the many free museums in the city.
What are the top 10 things to do in New York City with a 10-year-old?
If you’re visiting New York City with a 10-year-old, there are plenty of things to do to keep them entertained. Some of the top attractions include the American Museum of Natural History, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building. You can also take them to see a Broadway show, visit the Central Park Zoo, or explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
What are some recommended areas to stay in NYC with kids?
When visiting all the places with kids in New York, it’s recommended to stay in areas that are family-friendly and have easy access to attractions. Some of the best areas to stay include Midtown Manhattan, the Upper West Side, and the Upper East Side. These areas are safe, have plenty of family-friendly restaurants, and are close to many attractions.
Is New York City a good destination for a family vacation?
Yes, New York City is a great destination for a family vacation. There are plenty of attractions and activities to keep both kids and adults entertained. From museums and zoos to Broadway shows and famous landmarks, there’s something for everyone in the city. Just be prepared for the crowds and the fast-paced lifestyle of the city.
