New York is one of the easiest cities in the world to entertain children. There are always so many things to do in New York with kids. You could spend a whole year here and never run out of fun things to do!
If you are looking for ideas of what to do in New York with children, here is our pick of all the best New York attractions for kids.
Central Park
Central Park is like one enormous playground in the middle of Manhattan. There are lawns to run on, rocks to climb, lakes to paddle on and 21 playgrounds to explore. There’s even the Central Park Zoo where you can visit the original Penguins of Madagascar – what more could your kids ask for?
American Museum of Natural History
One of the world’s largest and most impressive museums, the American Museum of Natural History features 46 permanent exhibits, in addition to visiting exhibitions. The highlight for most kids is the dinosaurs, particularly the 122-foot long Titanosaur.
Click here to book Skip-the-Line tickets to American Museum of Natural History
Top of the Rock
The 360-degree city views from the observation deck at the top of the Rockefeller Centre are unparalleled. From your 70-storey high position, you get views over Central Park, the Empire State Building and One World Trade Centre, and over the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty.
Click here to book Skip-the-Line tickets to Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Broadway Show
Watching a show on Broadway is a quintessential New York experience and you know whatever you see is going to be high quality here. There is always something for kids on here so check it out before you go and plan ahead for the best seats.
High Line
The 1.45 mile long High Line is an elevated park and walkway built atop an abandoned railway line. It’s the perfect walk for families in New York, offering fantastic city views and with several sculptures, exhibits, water features and more to explore along the way.
Click here to read more about the High Line
Children’s Museum of the Arts
Kids can explore the world of art at this 10,000 square foot museum designed especially for children. There are over 2,000 pieces of international children’s art on display and the museum runs a wide range of workshops, camps and programmes for hands-on fun.
Click here to visit the Children’s Museum of the Arts website
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building needs no introduction, and if your kids like ticking off world-famous landmarks on their travels, then you can’t skip this one. Kids under 6 are free. Buy tickets online and plan to get there early to avoid the crowds.
Click here to buy your Skip-the-Line tickets for the Empire State Building
Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island
Another New York must-see if you are like to tick boxes is the Statue of Liberty, and arriving towards Liberty Island by boat is a special experience not to be missed. If you want to go all the way up to the crown, be sure to book well in advance.
Bronx Zoo
One of the largest zoos in the world, the Bronx Zoo is a great fun New York family day out. In addition to the huge range of animals on show, there’s a carousel, 4D theatre, treetop adventure course, camel rides and more. General admission is free on Wednesdays.
Click here to visit the Bronx Zoo website
Circle Line Cruise
With New York City traffic being infamous, a fun way to sightsee is by boat. The Circle Line cruise allows you to catch views of over 100 New York sights, all while you sit back in comfort and enjoy a refreshment and onboard commentary.
Advance book your Circle Line Cruise tickets here
Click here to read more about getting around New York.
Click here to read our Family Guide to NYC.
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Family guide to the best things to do in New York with kids
