New York City offers endless excitement for families, with activities for kids and adults alike. From interactive museums and sprawling parks to iconic landmarks, NYC’s variety of family-friendly spots guarantees an unforgettable visit. Here’s your guide to the top attractions that will entertain all ages and make your family trip memorable.
1. Central Park: Outdoor Fun and Adventure
Central Park is a must-visit for families seeking outdoor fun. This 843-acre green space offers countless options for activities and relaxation.
- Playgrounds and Picnic Spots: Central Park boasts over 20 playgrounds, with each one featuring unique designs and play structures. The Billy Johnson Playground, with its granite slide, is a popular choice for kids. Bring a picnic to Sheep Meadow or the Great Lawn, and enjoy family time surrounded by greenery.
- Zoo and Carousel: The Central Park Zoo is home to animals from around the world, with interactive exhibits and a petting zoo for younger visitors. After the zoo, the Central Park Carousel is a fun, nostalgic experience for families.
- Boating and Biking: Renting rowboats at the Loeb Boathouse allows families to enjoy the park’s lake from the water. Alternatively, rent bikes and explore the park’s scenic paths, with stops at Belvedere Castle and Bow Bridge for photos.
2. American Museum of Natural History: Educational and Entertaining
The American Museum of Natural History is one of NYC’s most family-friendly museums, blending education with entertainment.
- Dinosaurs and Fossils: Kids will be amazed by the museum’s dinosaur halls, featuring fossilized skeletons of T. Rex and Triceratops. This exhibit is both educational and thrilling, as children learn about prehistoric creatures.
- The Butterfly Conservatory: Open seasonally, the Butterfly Conservatory is a magical experience where families can walk among hundreds of live butterflies. Kids can observe these colorful insects up close as they fly freely in a tropical environment.
- Space and Astronomy: The Hayden Planetarium offers immersive space shows, and the Rose Center for Earth and Space is home to exhibits on the cosmos. It’s an exciting way for kids to learn about our universe.
A statue of Abraham Lincoln at the American Museum of Natural History
3. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Iconic Historical Sites
Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a must for families interested in history and iconic landmarks.
- Ferry Ride to Liberty Island: A ferry ride to Liberty Island is exciting for kids, offering views of the NYC skyline and close-up views of Lady Liberty. Families can climb to the pedestal for panoramic views or take in the surroundings from the island grounds.
- Ellis Island Immigration Museum: Just a short ferry ride from the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island offers insights into the immigrant experience. Interactive exhibits show what it was like for the millions of immigrants who passed through here, providing an educational experience about American history.
The Statue of Liberty from afar on Staten Island
4. The High Line: Unique Urban Park
The High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway, is a unique NYC attraction for families looking for a different outdoor experience.
- Walk Above the City Streets: The High Line stretches from Gansevoort Street to 34th Street, offering views of the Hudson River and Manhattan. Along the way, families can enjoy gardens, art installations, and seasonal events.
- Food and Vendors: The High Line has food vendors and seating areas where families can take a break and try local snacks. Kids will love treats like ice cream and pretzels, while parents can enjoy coffee or artisanal offerings.
5. Times Square: Bright Lights and Big Screens
No trip to NYC is complete without a visit to Times Square. It’s an overwhelming but thrilling experience for kids, especially in the evening when the neon lights shine.
- Broadway Shows: Many Broadway theaters around Times Square offer family-friendly shows, such as “The Lion King” and “Aladdin.” These performances captivate children with colorful costumes, music, and impressive sets.
- M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World: Stop by M&M’s World and Hershey’s Chocolate World for sweet treats and fun souvenirs. Kids can create custom M&M blends or indulge in Hershey-themed desserts.
- Outdoor Performers and Street Artists: The area is lively with outdoor performers and street artists, providing free entertainment for families as they explore the square.
The High Line Park during fall
6. New York Hall of Science: Hands-On Learning
Located in Queens, the New York Hall of Science is one of NYC’s top destinations for kids interested in science and technology.
- Interactive Exhibits: The museum offers over 450 hands-on exhibits covering physics, chemistry, biology, and more. Kids can build structures, experiment with light, or learn about space exploration.
- Outdoor Science Playground: The outdoor playground is equipped with science-themed installations where children can learn through play. It’s a great spot for kids to burn off some energy while learning basic physics principles.
- Mini-Golf and Rocket Park: The museum also features a mini-golf course and Rocket Park, with real spacecraft on display. It’s a great opportunity for kids to see actual rockets up close.
7. Brooklyn Bridge Park: Scenic Views and Waterfront Fun
Brooklyn Bridge Park is ideal for families seeking a mix of outdoor activities, playgrounds, and waterfront views.
- Pier 6 Playgrounds: This area includes a Splash Pad, swings, and climbing structures, making it perfect for younger children. There are picnic tables nearby where families can relax and enjoy snacks.
- Jane’s Carousel: This historic carousel, housed in a glass pavilion, is fun for both kids and adults. Located near the Brooklyn Bridge, it offers beautiful views of Manhattan.
- Ferry to Governors Island: From Brooklyn Bridge Park, families can take a quick ferry ride to Governors Island. The island has bike rentals, mini-golf, and plenty of space for picnics, making it ideal for a day trip.
Times square street at night
Check Out Our New York City Travel Guide
NYC has endless options for family fun, ensuring each day is filled with exciting activities and memorable moments. Whether your family loves nature, science, history, or amusement parks, there’s something for everyone. To get more travel insights and make the most of your visit, head to VisitNYC.com and start planning your perfect family trip to New York City. You can learn about top sightseeing in New York, explore our New York in one day guided sightseeing tour, or get last minute Broadway tickets NYC. Don’t forget to check out The Play That Goes Wrong New York tickets and find budget friendly hotels in New York to make your trip even better!
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