New York might be seen as a destination for party people or lovers of high culture, but this vast, exciting city is a wonderful destination for families with kids, with a huge list of great things to do that will appeal to the whole family.
Despite the vast array of family friendly attractions, sights and experiences, exploring the Big Apple with kids can also be challenging. It is a big city, and as such it is important to think about getting around and keeping little ones engaged and energised. In a city so full of exciting cultural attractions it can also sometimes be hard to find a balance of attractions that appeal to the entire family.
With a little forward planning however, New York can be a real treat for families of all ages, and provide genuinely special experiences that everyone will enjoy. To give you a helping hand when putting together your itinerary, we’ve jotted down some of the best family experiences in town, and some hints and tips for keeping everyone happy throughout your trip.
Read on for everything you need to know about planning a trip to New York with kids!
American Museum of Natural History
One of the best spots in town for kids, and with loads of interesting exhibitions to keep adults entertained too. Dinosaur bones and a life-size Blue Whale will thrill the little ones, and the collections and history on display are pretty fascinating whatever age you are!
Bronx Zoo
This conservation park in the heart of the Bronx is a wonderful way to spend a whole day, with an enormous array of attractions, experiences and amazing creatures on show. For your smallest family members the Children’s Zoo offers hands-on, close-up experiences, while the Asia Monorail helps tired legs get around this vast space.
Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise
New York is a surprisingly popular cruise destination, and many visitors arrive or depart the city as part of a New York cruise. For families who don’t have the chance to arrive by boat, the Circle Line is a great, family friendly way to see a big chunk of the city, and a bunch of the main attractions, from a comfortable, safe environment. Kids can roam freely on board, and rest their legs, while checking out the iconic skyline, and the Statue of Liberty.
Top of The Rock
New York is best seen from up high, and the viewing deck at Rockefeller Centre is the perfect place. Not as crowded as the Empire State Building, plus you get to actually look at it as part of the view.
Coney Island
Coney Island is the perfect trip for the whole family. Everyone loves the beach, and the fairground rides and carnival sideshows create a wonderful atmosphere for everyone. Grab a hotdog, stroll along the sand and take in the magic of New York’s most retro neighbourhood.
The most important thing to remember about visiting New York with kids is to take it easy. Walking the High Line in Chelsea before exploring Manhattan will exhaust little legs, and when there’s so much to see it’s tempting to overdo it. Take your time and enjoy it, and you’ll have the perfect trip.
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