Exploring NYC with Kids: The Best Family-Friendly Attractions
You’ll find plenty of amazing sites and things to do with your kids in New York City. Activities range from museums, among the world’s biggest to parks that cover large parts of the city and fun and stimulating attractions.
Central Park NYC
Central Park: An Urban Oasis
One of the best family attractions in New York is Central Park which many people like to refer to as the lungs of New York City.
This large park has much to do for children of all ages. Central Park Zoo is very popular amongst families as children love to see the animals at play. Top attractions include the sea lion show and the Tisch Children’s Zoo, a touch farm. The compact zoo takes no more than several hours to cover so it won’t tire the children out.
If you’re looking for playgrounds in NYC, you’ve come to the right place. Central Park has several awesome playgrounds for the children to romp around in.
The Heckscher Playground
The Heckscher Playground at the park’s south end is the oldest and largest playground in NYC with slides, swings, and a water area. The Billy Johnson Playground has natural-looking granite slides incorporated into the park’s topography. The kids will love the Central Park Carousel, providing joy to children since 1871.
Then, head east for the lovely Conservatory Water and rent model boats to sail with the kids.
During New York’s warmer months, New York’s Central Park sightseeing is an excellent opportunity to take a break from the city noise to browse the well-maintained Conservatory Garden and fountains.
The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History: A Journey Through Time
The American Museum Of Natural History is a must-see for families touring New York City. Collections include dinosaurs, space installations, marine life exhibits, and cultural displays. The museum offers children many fun learning activities that should keep them busy for the best part of the day. Plan to take a break at one of the museum's kid-friendly restaurants.
The dinosaur halls will enthrall your children with dinosaur fossils and displays of life on earth millions of years ago. The Rose Center for Earth and Space, containing the Hayden Planetarium hosts wonderful space shows, a thrilling experience for children and adults.
Younger children, in particular, will enjoy the Discovery Room which invites them to touch the objects on display. It provides children with many hands-on exhibits with science and nature themes.
Other attractions include the Butterfly Conservatory and the Margaret Mead Film Festival. Apart from the permanent attractions, there are also traveling shows so consult the museum’s calendar of activities before visiting.
Children's Museum of Manhattan
The Children's Museum of Manhattan: Interactive Learning and Play
CMOM or The Children’s Museum of Manhattan contains loads of educational toys to help children learn through play. CMOM is in the Upper West Side and encompasses five floors of fun for children of all ages. Exhibits cover early child development, health, world, and art.
Well-known installations include “PlayWorks”, created for children under four.
Here, children participate in creative and fun learning through water play, climbing, and a pretend corner for learning at an early age.
CMOM features workshops and performances like storytelling and arts and crafts sessions.
The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions so families can return more than once and see something different at each visit.
Exploring NYC Waterfront: Piers and Parks
Exploring NYC's Waterfront: Piers and Parks
The many New York City waterfront areas are perfect for family outings and scenic views. One such place is on 25th St, New York, in the Hudson River Park area. It boasts a kids' playground and mini golf and beach volleyball courts. This pier also has a spray ground where the children can cool off on hot summer days.
Further south, find Brooklyn Bridge Park, a sprawling waterfront park with playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Pier 6 Playground
The park's Pier 6 Playground stands out for its great features, including a water lab, giant sandbox, and climbing structures. Take the kids for a ride on Jane's Carousel, a beautifully restored historic carousel in the park.
Take a ferry from Manhattan or Brooklyn to Governors Island. Rent a bike or take a picnic hamper. Spend a few hours in the fresh air before returning to the mainland.
The island offers bike rentals, playgrounds, and expansive green spaces. Seasonal adventures include zip-lining, a climbing wall, and a mini-golf course, a hit with older kids.
Broadway Shows: Magical Theatrical Experiences
A trip to NYC isn’t complete until you have experienced Broadway show magic. Many productions are perfect for families, offering age-appropriate storytelling and dazzling performances.
Popular family-friendly shows include "The Lion King," "Aladdin," and "Frozen," all of which feature stunning sets, costumes, and music that captivate audiences of all ages.
The Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo: Wildlife Adventures
The Bronx Zoo, one of the world’s largest metropolitan zoos, is a fantastic place for kids to connect with nature and wildlife. With over 265 acres to explore, the zoo offers numerous exhibits and activities to appeal to children of all ages.
Must-see exhibits include the Congo Gorilla Forest, where you’ll find gorillas languishing in lush, naturalistic settings., and the Butterfly Garden, where kids can walk among free-flying butterflies. The Children's Zoo is also worth a visit. Interactive exhibits include a petting zoo and a treehouse for the children to climb and explore.
Look out for the Dinosaur Safari, a bus ride through the Bronx to a prehistoric world inhabited by moving animatronic creatures like dinosaurs. Remember to ask for the feeding and animal keepers talks’ timetables.
Rides and Attractions in Coney Island
Coney Island: Classic Amusement Park Fun
Plan a day or two at Coney Island. A visit to the beach is always a popular family destination. If you’re not keen on the beach, a walk on the Coney Island Boardwalk makes for a lovely afternoon sightseeing tour. Stop at the shops and stalls along the way for hot dogs and ice creams.
Visit the New York Aquarium, a short walk away. The kids will love the sea lion show. Throughout the summer, Coney Island is a hub of events like the Mermaid Parade and weekly firework show
Endless Adventures
A family vacation in New York City is a fun and lively experience. From simple strolls through the beautiful Central Park to the children’s fun interactive exhibits at the many museums. Plan your New York City kids’ vacation and ensure that the family has a fun and educational experience upon which memories are made.
For families seeking the perfect place to stay in New York City, Rove Travel offers luxury furnished homes that cater to all your needs. Whether you're exploring Central Park or visiting the city's top attractions, our spacious, family-friendly properties provide comfort and convenience for a memorable stay. With prime locations and top-notch amenities, Rove Travel ensures your family will feel right at home in the heart of the city.
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.