Best Places to Stay in NYC with Kids
New York City offers families a fabulous vacation option. The nightlife, shopping, and Broadway shows are special. Not to mention the cultural opportunities afforded by the many museums. Still, where do you stay when you have kids? New York City is notorious for its high prices. You’ll need accommodations that respect your budget. You’ll also want a New York City hotel with easy access to your intended activities.
Come with us as we explore the best NYC hotels in neighborhoods with room types that favor young families visiting the Big Apple.
Manhattan: The Heart of the Action
Manhattan is in the heart of New York, home to the famous Fifth Avenue and Madison Square Park. So, it should come as no surprise that the area boasts some of the best hotels for families visiting New York City.
Upper West Side NYC
Upper West Side
Upper West Side is a comfortable residential area close to some of the best-known New York tourist attractions and family favorites. It’s adjacent to Central Park so the kids will love it. Central Park New York is perfect for families as it contains picnic areas, a zoo, and plenty of open space.
Your children will love the dinosaur display and planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, so make sure to pencil this NYC experience into your itinerary. While you're in the Upper West Side, don't miss the Children’s Museum of Natural Art , which offers interactive exhibits perfect for young ones. You can also explore the iconic Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, a hub for culture and entertainment, or take a leisurely stroll through Riverside Park, with its scenic views along the Hudson River.
You’ll find luxury New York City hotels in the area and more affordable options like the Lucerne Hotel and Beacon Hotel. The Beacon Hotel has room options with small kitchens, expanding your dining options. Prepare some of your meals at the hotel and save money, the perfect choice for families with robust kids or fussy eaters.
Greystone Penthouse by Rove Travel | Manhattan Valley
For families seeking luxury accommodations, Rove Travel offers exclusive properties in the Upper West Side that combine the comforts of home with the style of a high-end hotel. Enjoy spacious living areas, modern amenities, and proximity to all the family-friendly attractions this charming neighborhood has to offer.
Guggenheim, Upper East Side NYC
Upper East Side
Located east of the Great Lawn in Central Park, the Upper East Side is another popular family neighborhood. The area is upscale and houses New York’s Museum Mile, home to the Metropolitan Museum of Arts and the Guggenheim Museum.
Young tourists will love the nearby Central Park playgrounds and zoo. You’ll find spacious New York family hotels with large bedroom suites and family-friendly features at many Upper East Side Hotels, like The Surrey and the Mark Hotel. Both these family-friendly hotels are popular for their location and luxury rooms.
Gotham House II by Rove Travel | Midtown West | Spacious Modern Duplex
Midtown Manhattan
Midtown Manhattan is the perfect springboard for New York City’s premiere sightseeing landmarks, including the theater district. Grand Central Terminal, the Empire State Building, and Bryant Park are all within walking distance. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, and Rockefeller Center are just around the corner. The little ones will be spoilt for choice.
Some of the best Midtown family hotels include the Marriott Marquis with its spacious guest rooms and spectacular views of the famous Times Square. The affordable Hilton Garden Inn is also a good fit for families looking for Midtown accommodation. Rove Travel's properties in Midtown offer spacious layouts and premium amenities, providing a comfortable and luxurious base for exploring all the city’s attractions.
Radio City Music Hall Apartments is right in the center of New York. Some hotels, like the Peninsula, offer special kids packages that include kids' robes and slippers and children’s scavenger hunt. A Midtown base isn’t too far from popular attractions so you can return to the hotel for a rest between activities.
Brooklyn: The Trendy Alternative
If you'd rather not stay in Manhattan, Brooklyn is an excellent alternative with plenty of child-friendly activities.
Dumbo, Brooklyn at Night
DUMBO
An acronym for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass: DUMBO is one of the most popular Brooklyn quarters and the perfect place for families. In this area, you’re close to the mainstream activities and have a view of the Manhattan skyline.
Nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park attracts families with playgrounds, barbeque spots, picnic areas, and a carousel. Young people also love the neighborhood’s quaint cobblestone streets and artsy appeal.
One of the best kid friendly DUMBO family facilities is the 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, an environmental-friendly hotel, boasting picturesque views of the East River.
The streets of Park Slope
Park Slope
Park Slope is a family-oriented area with many schools and playgrounds.
Nearby facilities include the Brooklyn Museum and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Another similar facility, Prospect Park, has a zoo, boats the children can ride, and plenty of space to play.
There are fewer large, chain hotels in Park Slope, but the area has several small, boutique hotels, like the Hotel Le Bleu.
The low-intensity tourist activity enables a less hurried experience than in Manhattan while offering access to several cultural diversions.
Queens: Cultural Diversity and Space
Busy streets of an intersection in Queens
Queens is more spread out and a little less rushed. It's a multicultural area with an artsy vibe.
Long Island City by the Waterfront
Long Island City
Queens’ Long Island City is perfect for families. The area contains waterfront parks and playgrounds, including Gantry Plaza State Parks. Progressive art museums including MoMA PS1 are among the offerings.
Specialty restaurants offer cuisines to suit a range of budgets and preferences. Hotels like the Ravel and LIC Hotels are perfect for families looking for a home away from home. They are comfortable and close to the subway, offering easy access to Manhattan and New York downtown.
Astoria Neighborhood
Astoria
Astoria in Queens has a multicultural background and many family-oriented facilities. Astoria Park invites children to play in the playgrounds and swimming pool. It offers great views of the East River.
Interactive displays at the Museum of the Moving Image with its World of Animation entertain all, from children to parents and grandparents who are young at heart.
Astoria has various types of hotels catering to family needs. You’ll find family hotels and cheap apartments for short-term rental.
Le Palais VI by Rove Travel | West Village | Hotel Residence w/ Spa & Gym
Tips for a Successful Family Stay in NYC
Everybody wants a stress-free vacation. Here are tips to help you enjoy the perfect New York family vacation.
Choose a New York Hotel with Family Amenities
Look out for the following amenities:
- Children’s cribs and high chairs
- Family suites
- Babysitting services for when Mom and Dad need a night off
- An on-site restaurant
- Free wi-fi
- Flat screen TVs
- Bunk beds are fun and save space
Plan Your Itinerary with Breaks
Organize your days with intended breaks at parks or cafes to ensure all are fresh and cheerful for planned activities throughout the day. Central Park, Bryant Park, and Prospect Park offer plenty of spaces to take a break. Let the children play in the fresh air and sunshine, while you unwind and plan the next activities.
NYC Subway
Use Public Transportation
Catch a train at Grand Central Station or Times Square in Midtown Manhattan to almost anywhere in New York. The New York Subway offers one of the most effective forms of transport.
Up to three children with a height of fewer than 44 inches can travel for free with an adult on the subway so you can save money on public transport. Consider using a foldable stroller on crowded trains.
Visit Kid-Friendly Attractions
There are so many fun sites in NYC that you are bound to find plenty for your children to enjoy. Don’t miss the Bronx Zoo, Coney Island, and the New York Hall of Science.
Stay Safe and Be Prepared
Be careful in crowded areas. Always take stock of the surroundings and keep your belongings close to you. Discuss a recovery mode with your family, in case someone wanders off and gets lost. Always carry snacks, water, and any required medicines.
Enjoy Your New York Vacation
You’ll have the best New York vacation with your children if you choose accommodations close to the activities that interest you most. Proximity to a transport hub and hotels within walking distance offer you the best chance of enjoying all the best activities designed for families.
Discover hidden gems and local favorites with our guides to non-touristy things to do in NYC and Brooklyn. Instead of hitting the usual crowded spots, explore charming neighborhoods, cultural hotspots, and unique dining spots for a true taste of the city. Uncover the best-kept secrets and experience the unique charm of New York City and Brooklyn just like a local.