Family Friendly Activities New York City

Family Friendly Activities in New York City

New York City is a paradise for families, with endless options for entertainment, education, and adventure. Here are some top picks for family-friendly activities to enjoy in the Big Apple:

Museums

  • American Museum of Natural History: Home to over 30 million specimens and artifacts, including dinosaur fossils and a giant blue whale.
    • Tip: Arrive early or visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.
  • Children’s Museum of the Arts: A unique space where kids can create their own art using various materials and techniques.
    • Tip: Check out their special exhibitions and events for added fun.
  • New York Hall of Science: Explore science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) through interactive exhibits and hands-on activities.
    • Tip: Don’t miss the giant model train layout!

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

  • Central Park: A 843-acre oasis in the middle of Manhattan, perfect for picnics, playgrounds, and a zoo.
    • Tip: Take a stroll through the Bethesda Fountain or rent a boat on the lake.
  • High Line: Elevated park built on an old rail line, featuring gardens, art installations, and great city views.
    • Tip: Visit at sunset for a magical experience.
  • Prospect Park: A 585-acre green space in Brooklyn with playgrounds, a zoo, and plenty of picnic areas.
    • Tip: Don’t miss the Prospect Park Zoo’s Sea Lion Cove!

Shows and Performances

  • The Blue Man Group: An entertaining and interactive show featuring music, comedy, and technology.
    • Tip: Get there early to grab seats with a good view.
  • Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular: A holiday classic featuring the Rockettes’ iconic dance routines.
    • Tip: Buy tickets in advance for the best selection of seats.
  • Madison Square Garden’s Family Shows: Catch a variety show, circus performance, or concert designed specifically for families.
    • Tip: Check out their calendar for upcoming shows and events.

Food and Treats

  • New York City’s Iconic Pizza: Try a classic slice from Lombardi’s, Joe’s, or Patsy’s – some of the city’s oldest pizzerias!
    • Tip: Be prepared for lines, especially on weekends.
  • Ice Cream Shops: Visit Serendipity 3 for decadent sundaes and unique flavors, or try one of the many other NYC ice cream shops.
    • Tip: Try a classic New York-style hot dog at Gray’s Papaya!
  • Carnivals and Fairs: Catch seasonal festivals like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or the Easter Parade for egg-themed fun!

Other Fun Activities

  • Take a Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge: Enjoy spectacular city views, street performers, and great photo ops.
    • Tip: Visit at sunset for an unforgettable experience.
  • Visit the New York Aquarium: Get up close with marine life from around the world.
    • Tip: Don’t miss the shark tank!
  • Shopping at Kid-Friendly Malls: Visit the West Side’s Chelsea Market or the Upper East Side’s Zabar’s for a fun day of shopping and snacking.
    • Tip: Be prepared for crowds on weekends!

Additional Tips

  • Plan ahead: Book tickets, make reservations, and plan transportation in advance to avoid stress.
  • Research: Check out reviews and ratings from other families who’ve visited the same attractions.
  • Have Fun! Remember to enjoy quality time with your family and take plenty of photos to capture memories.

Enjoy exploring New York City with your family!