Welcome to the most family-friendly trip in New York City! With its expansive parks and tall towers, the city has plenty of fun things to do for children of all ages. Prepare for an amazing journey filled with exciting outdoor activities and visits to top-notch museums.
Let’s explore the colorful and varied tapestry of enjoyable activities in the heart of New York City waiting for you and your kids in this part 2 of the best things you can enjoy with your kids!
Check PART 1 HERE for more awesome places and activities!
1. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Intrepid became the foundation of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Explore the world of sea, air, and space exploration with interactive exhibits at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, which provides an immersive experience on a vintage aircraft carrier. Engaging exhibits that provide visitors insight into the vessel’s rich history and her role in international wars and scientific achievements include aircraft displays, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
A dynamic journey through the challenges and achievements of human ingenuity and bravery is provided by the museum, which provides experiences ranging from touring the flight deck to diving deep into space exploration. It bears witness to the spirit of frontier adventure on many fronts.
Available Tours:
- Intrepid Museum Admission Ticket
- New York CityPASS®
- New York City Sightseeing Day Tour
2. Brooklyn Bridge Park
People enjoy urban Main Street Park with skyline and bridge views in DUMBO, NYC
Brooklyn Bridge Park is mesmerizing with recreational opportunities, lovely scenery, and gorgeous surroundings. This large park, tucked away behind the East River, has many amenities, including play areas, athletic fields, and rambling walking routes. Indulge in the tranquil atmosphere while taking in expansive views of the Manhattan skyline and the famous Brooklyn Bridge.
Whether taking a leisurely stroll along the waterfront promenade, participating in outdoor pursuits, or enjoying the natural beauty, Brooklyn Bridge Park offers a captivating haven for families. Discover the charm of this urban retreat where leisure and peace coexist in breathtaking surroundings.
Available Tours:
- The Best of Brooklyn Walking Tour: “The Brooklyn Revolution!”
- Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Neighborhood Tour – from Manhattan to Brooklyn
- NYC Bus Tour of Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens: Contrasts, Color and Character
3. Children’s Museum of Manhattan
Children’s Museum of Manhattan in New York
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is a bustling center that serves children only and encourages hands-on learning and discovery. With so many interactive displays, this museum sparks young brains’ inventiveness and curiosity. It provides a range of events catered to different interests and age groups, from science experiments to art workshops.
Children engage in immersive activities that stimulate their intellectual and emotional development as they explore various themes, from history to technology. The museum fosters a passion for exploration and lifelong learning via its dynamic approach to teaching. In the center of Manhattan, it stands as a symbol of exceptional education, driven by the goals of empowering and inspiring.
4. Kayaking on the Hudson
Kayaking near Pier 26 in Hudson River Park
Take advantage of kayaking opportunities along the Hudson River at several docks. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the city skyline as you paddle down the famous river. Kayaks may be glided under old bridges while the mild stream flows beneath them. Savor the peace of the lake as you glide across its glistening surface.
Something is alluring about exploring the Hudson from a kayak, regardless of experience level. As you submerge your paddle into the refreshing river and create ripples that mirror the splendor of New York’s shoreline, you can feel the beat of the river. Take a look at this interactive city tour right now.
5. 9/11 Memorial & Museum
9/11 Memorial Museum Outlook in New York
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is both a somber monument and a source of knowledge. It is a moving place of contemplation, honoring the lives lost and the unwavering tenacity that rose from adversity. It methodically narrates the September 11, 2001 events and pays tribute to the heroes who bravely reacted through immersive exhibits and relics.
The museum’s educational goals go beyond simple memorialization; in addition to providing information about the attacks’ worldwide effects, they also aim to promote discussion on terrorism, resiliency, and unity. After their visit, visitors have a greater understanding of history and a renewed resolve to respect the past while constructing a better future.
Available Tours:
- 9/11 Memorial Museum Admission Ticket
- 9/11 Memorial, Ground Zero Tour with Optional 9/11 Museum Ticket
- All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory
6. New York Botanical Garden
New York Botanical Garden
Discover the New York Botanical Garden, a haven of botanical beauties with an array of interesting seasonal displays and a rich plant life. Discover a brilliant tapestry of flora, with each season revealing its appeal, from the rich hues of fall foliage to the vivid blossoms of spring.
Take a voyage of discovery through painstakingly designed landscapes that showcase an amazing variety of plant species worldwide. Indulge your senses as you stroll through verdant foliage, inhale the aroma of fragrant flowers, and take in the breathtaking display of nature. Visit the New York Floral Garden to experience the essence of floral grandeur.
Available Tours:
- All-Garden Pass for the New York Botanical Garden
- New York Pass: Empire State Building and 100+ Attractions
- New York Sightseeing Day Pass: 100+ Attractions including One World Observatory
7. The Cloisters
Landscape view of the gardens of the Cuxa Cloister, part of the Met Cloisters
Explore medieval art in a serene setting at Upper Manhattan’s The Cloisters. With its chosen collection, this one-of-a-kind museum—part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art—transports you back to the Middle Ages. Located inside Fort Tryon Park, its tranquil surroundings add to the experience and make it possible to take a stroll among works of art that date back centuries.
With its elaborate tapestries, illuminated manuscripts, and architectural marvels, The Cloisters provide a window into a bygone era. Take in the splendor of medieval craftsmanship as you meander through verdant gardens and gated pathways. Whether you’re a history or art fan, this hidden gem ensures an insightful visit.
Available Tours:
- Skip the line Met Cloisters and Fifth Avenue Tour by Car
8. Roosevelt Island Tramway
Views from Roosevelt Island cable tram car
A famous aerial tramway that offers amazing views of Manhattan’s skyline is the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Passengers are treated to expansive views that showcase New York City’s architectural wonders as it glides over the East River. The tramway offers a distinctive viewpoint while showcasing famous sites including the Statue of Liberty, the Chrysler Building, and the Empire State Building.
The trip offers a fully immersive experience that combines the excitement of flying with the splendor of cityscapes. The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers travelers an amazing experience, whether you are traveling for business or pleasure. You will be in wonder at Manhattan’s breathtaking scenery as they travel above it.
Available Tours:
- Roosevelt Island Haunted Walking Tour
9. Queens Museum
Front entrance of the Queens Art Museum in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, Queens
The Queens Museum stands as an iconic institution, housing the renowned Panorama of the City of New York alongside a plethora of engaging family workshops. Within its walls, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the intricate urban landscape depicted in the Panorama, marveling at its intricate details and expansive scope.
Additionally, the museum fosters creativity and community through its diverse array of family workshops, where participants of all ages can unleash their artistic talents and forge lasting memories together. As a cultural hub, the Queens Museum continually enriches the lives of residents and visitors alike, celebrating the vibrant spirit of New York City.
10. Museum of Ice Cream
Museum of Ice Cream, New York City Sprinkles Pool
The immersive Museum of Ice Cream features interactive displays centered around everyone’s favorite frozen dessert. This museum provides a pleasant experience for all ages, from gigantic sprinkle pools where guests may plunge into a sea of sweet ecstasy to imaginative installations showcasing larger-than-life ice cream cones.
As they explore rooms brimming with vivid colors, delicious scents, and whimsical displays intended to replicate the joy of ice cream, guests can indulge their senses. An unforgettable trip through a world of frozen treats is guaranteed when you visit the Museum of Ice Cream, whether you’re taking Instagram-worthy pictures or just enjoying the delectable ambiance.
Available Tours:
- Museum of Ice Cream New York City Admission Ticket
- Secret Food Tours Greenwich Village
- City of Contrasts Tour-Manhattan, Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn
11. Carousel Rides
Historic Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn
Discover the allure of the vintage carousels located in Bryant Park, Prospect Park, and Central Park. These classic attractions transport guests of all ages to a whimsical and nostalgic world with enjoyable rides. The Carousel in Central Park welcomes visitors to take in its colorful music and hand-carved horses.
A stunningly restored 1912 carousel with elaborate ornamentation and a picturesque location can be seen in Prospect Park. Le Carrousel in Bryant Park captivates with its French flare, complete with quirky animal sculptures and a gorgeous setting. Set out on a carousel ride through the famous parks of New York City, where treasured memories are waiting around every corner.
12. FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz flagship store at Rockefeller Plaza in Midtown Manhattan
Standing tall as a famed toy store, FAO Schwarz is well-known for its distinctive enormous piano and wide selection of unusual toys. From the beginning, its captivating offers have captured hearts, making it a beloved destination for both adults and children. The magnificence of the store goes beyond simple shopping; it’s an entire experience that inspires amazement and nostalgia.
FAO Schwarz has curated a collection that evokes delight and inventiveness, ranging from traditional favorites to inventive inventions. Its legacy lives on, representing the eternal appeal of play and the enchantment of childhood. Within the busy retail industry, FAO Schwarz continues to be a source of joy and whimsy.
13. Madame Tussauds New York
Abraham Lincoln in Madame Tussaud wax museum
Discover the glitz of Madame Tussauds New York while interacting with your favorite stars’ lifelike wax replicas. Pose with celebrities from the domains of sports, music, movies, and politics. Take an interactive trip through the history of pop culture, with everything from historical people to Hollywood celebrities.
Whether you’re standing shoulder to shoulder with Barack Obama or taking selfies with Beyoncé, each expertly created figure presents an opportunity to record priceless memories. Madame Tussauds encourages you to take center stage and make lifelong memories thanks to its great location in the middle of Times Square.
Available Tours:
- New York Sightseeing Day Pass: 100+ Attractions including One World Observatory
- Private NYC Tour with Fun Activities for Families and Kids
14. Dylan’s Candy Bar
Dylan`s Candy Bar in New York City
Indulge in an extensive array of candies and confections at Dylan’s Candy Bar. Immerse yourself in a wonderland of sweet delights, offering a diverse and expansive assortment of treats to tantalize every palate. From nostalgic favorites to exotic delicacies, the candy emporium caters to all tastes and cravings.
Embark on a sensory journey through vibrant displays brimming with colorful candies, chocolates, gummies, and more. Whether seeking a childhood classic or a unique flavor adventure, Dylan’s Candy Bar promises an unforgettable experience for candy enthusiasts of all ages. Satisfy your sweet tooth and explore the boundless world of confectionery bliss.
15. New York Aquarium
A seal sticking out its tongue in New York Aquarium
Discover the wonders of marine life at the New York Aquarium, where you can take in breathtaking sea lion displays and fascinating exhibits. Explore a world below the waves and come across a wide variety of marine life, including elegant sharks and colorful tropical species.
Admire the sea lions’ intelligence and dexterity as they astonish spectators with their captivating antics. Visitors of all ages can have an unforgettable experience that inspires and educates them at the New York Aquarium, regardless of whether they are nature enthusiasts or just looking for family-friendly entertainment. Come experience the ocean’s beauty for yourself today!
Available Tours:
- New York Aquarium Admission
16. The LEGO Store
Exclusive NYC-inspired 3D LEGO model at LEGO flagship store on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan
Visit The LEGO Store to explore the colorful world of LEGO, where interactive play spaces are waiting for you. Take part in interactive activities and intricate exhibits to immerse yourself in limitless creativity. Explore your creative side, construct anything you want, and let your inner architect loose.
Everyone can find something to appreciate in this vibrant refuge, regardless of experience level—from seasoned builders to inquisitive beginners. Let your creativity run wild as you uncover countless opportunities, one brick at a time. Greetings from The LEGO Store, an endless source of play magic.
17. New York Transit Museum
The New York Transit Museum is a museum that displays historical artifacts of the New York City Subway
The New York Transit Museum creatively tells about the colorful history of public transportation in New York City. Experience the development of buses, subways, and commuter trains firsthand by looking at historical relics and interactive exhibitions. Examine how these transit options have influenced the city’s growth and culture.
As you step through the doors of the museum, you’re transported back in time to the early days of New York’s transit evolution. Vintage subway cars line the exhibit halls, their polished surfaces gleaming under the soft museum lights. You can almost hear the echoes of past commuters as you wander among the historic vehicles, each one telling a tale of a bygone era.
18. Gulliver’s Gate
Gulliver’s Gate in Manhattan, New York
Gulliver’s Gate is an enthralling small universe that has well-known sites from all around the world. Traveling through painstakingly constructed replicas, visitors are astounded by well-known locations rendered down to the last minute. This interactive experience whisks visitors to a variety of locations, including the Great Wall of China and the Eiffel Tower, giving them a fresh viewpoint on the world’s marvels.
Discoveries are made around every corner, inspiring wonder and curiosity in equal measure. Gulliver’s Gate welcomes inquiry, education, and admiration for the rich fabric of human culture and accomplishment—whether one is exploring the tranquil countryside or bustling cityscapes. Enter this small universe and feel free to use your imagination.
19. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
Exterior view of Ripley’s Believe it or Not in New York
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! invites with its Odditorium, a magical place full of unusual and extraordinary things. A kaleidoscope of odd and unusual exhibitions will be found around every corner, blurring the boundaries between reality and fantasy to create a visually stunning sight.
Every object, from enormous sculptures made of strange materials to skulls that have shrunk, inspires awe and disbelief. Wandering through a maze of curiosities, visitors are met with fascinating oddities at every corner. Whether it’s a mirror maze that defies the senses or a two-headed calf, Ripley’s offers an amazing trip into the unreal, where reality definitely is stranger than fiction.
Available Tours:
- NYC After-Dark Photography Tour
20. SeaGlass Carousel
SeaGlass Carousel at Battery Park
Basking in Battery Park, SeaGlass Carousel is a fascinating wonder that takes you on a magical underwater adventure. This unique carousel transports riders into an underwater wonderland, drawing inspiration from the grandeur of the ocean. All ages will find it to be a captivating sight, adorned with shimmering fish and lit by gentle, changing lights.
Feel like you’re a part of a marine ballet as you glide through exquisitely crafted fish-shaped chariots. A feeling of amazement and joy is evoked by the whimsical atmosphere and soft music including aquatic themes. Beyond just a ride, SeaGlass Carousel is a fantastical journey into the heart of the imagination.
Unforgettable Family Adventures Await in Vibrant New York City
There is no better place to take the family than New York City, where you can explore historical sites like the Intrepid Sea, and Air & Space Museum and take in the peace and quiet of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan to engage in interactive learning, or take an exciting kayak tour down the Hudson River.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to honor the past, or visit the New York Botanical Garden to take in the breathtaking scenery. Discover art from the Middle Ages at The Cloisters, ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway high above the city, or let your imagination run wild at the Queens Museum. New York City is the ideal location for amazing family vacations because it offers countless options for entertainment and discovery.
