New York City has a little magic for everyone, no matter the occasion. Whether you’re here for a romantic honeymoon, a quick weekend with friends, or an adventure with the family, NYC is full of unique experiences to make every trip unforgettable. If you’re visiting with kids, you’re in for a treat! The city has endless family-friendly attractions, from interactive museums and seasonal pop-ups to some of the best dessert spots around. Imagine walking through vibrant exhibits at the Museum of Ice Cream or exploring the whimsical installations at Hudson Yards – the kids will be thrilled, and you’ll love it too. Planning a family trip to New York City can feel overwhelming with so much to choose from, but don’t worry – I’ve got you covered! I’ll help you pick the best spots to make your trip to NYC memorable, stress-free, and full of fun.
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Family friendly hotels in NYC
Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Midtown Manhattan – offers room with king bed and sofa ( close to Madison Square Garden )
The Peninsula New York – Offers spacious rooms and a dedicated children’s program ( close to Rockefeller Center and Central Park )
New York Marriott Marquis – large rooms, multiple dining options, and access to Broadway theatres ( Located in Times Square )
Hotel Beacon – offers suites with kitchenettes, ideal for families ( near Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History)
Radio City Apartments – Apartment-style rooms with kitchen facilities ( close to Times Square )
Embassy Suites by Hilton – Spacious suites, free breakfast (close to Times Square )
SpringHill Suites by Marriott – Spacious suites, free breakfast ( near Empire State Building )
DoubleTree Suites by Hilton – All-suite hotel in Times Square
The best things to do in NYC with kids?
Central Park – A must-visit park for families in NYC! You can enjoy a relaxing picnic, rent bikes, explore the lake by boat, play in one of the many playgrounds, or see the famous Alice in Wonderland statue. It’s a great spot to relax during your trip. Book pedicab tour here
American Museum of Natural History – This top museum for kids in NYC features dinosaur skeletons, animal dioramas, meteorites, and hands-on exhibits about space. A perfect stop for curious young explorers and dinosaur lovers! Dont miss the dinosaur display featuring a 37-metre titanosaur skeleton and a Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. Book entry ticket here
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt –There are many places to see New York from above, but I highly recommend this one! SUMMIT One Vanderbilt offers interactive fun with glass walls, a room full of bouncing balls, and stunning reflections. It’s an exciting experience that makes it extra fun for kids and perfect for unique photo ops! Book here
Broadway Show – I’d recommend Aladdin or The Lion King for families; both shows are great for young kids and make for unforgettable memories! If your kids are a bit older, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child or Back to the Future are also fantastic choices for some extra magic and adventure.
New York Aquarium – See sharks, jellyfish, octopuses, and colourful fish. Kids will love getting up close to fascinating marine life right by the beach in Coney Island.
Coney Island – A seaside playground with Luna Park rides, a beach, and classic boardwalk fun. Perfect for a family day trip from the city!
Brooklyn Bridge & Park – Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn Bridge Park – my favourite park in NYC with the best views of Manhattan. Make sure to stop at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory for some delicious ice cream!
Dave & Buster’s Arcade – A fun stop for arcade games, kid-friendly dining, and hours of fun. Perfect for a rainy day in NYC with kids!
Children’s Museum of the Arts – This top New York museum for kids is packed with hands-on fun for ages 0-10. Kids can create art, climb, and play in themed spaces, plus learn about topics like voting. It’s a fun, educational experience for the whole family!
Roosevelt Island Tramway – The tram ride over the Queensboro Bridge offers stunning views of Manhattan and the East River. It leaves from 2nd Avenue and E 60th Street, taking you to Roosevelt Island. It’s $2.75 with a metro card or $3 for a single ticket.
Brooklyn Children’s Museum – A hands-on museum with exhibits designed just for kids. Explore nature, culture, and interactive play spaces that spark creativity and fun.
New York Hall of Science – Engaging exhibits teach kids about electricity, microorganisms, and gravity. It’s one of NYC’s best science museums for families.
Museum of Illusions – Full of mind-bending illusions and photo ops, this museum is perfect for kids who love interactive experiences. Don’t miss the Infinity Room!
The GIANT Room – A creative space where kids can build, play, and design. Perfect for young artists and inventors who want to let their imaginations soar.
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum – Explore a real aircraft carrier, airplanes, and even a space shuttle. It’s a fun, educational stop for fans of history and adventure. Get entry ticket here
Yankee Stadium – Catch a baseball game and experience New York’s love for sports!
American Girl Place – Shop for dolls, outfits, and accessories in this iconic store, where kids can create memories with their favourite characters.
Helicopter Tour –A helicopter tour is an incredible way to see NYC from above, offering stunning views of the city skyline. (Note: Doors-off flights are only for ages 12 and up.) Book here
Bronx Zoo – One of the largest zoos in the USA, with over 10,000 animals! Spend a full day exploring wildlife exhibits and enjoying family-friendly attractions.
Museum of Ice Cream – A colourful spot with interactive exhibits, ice cream history, and tasty treats. It’s one of the most Instagrammable places in NYC and a favourite for kids who love sweets and fun photos! Book here
New York Public Library – a wonderful place to explore with kids, especially to see the original Winnie-the-Pooh and friends from the classic stories. This spot is full of charm and nostalgia, making it enjoyable for both kids and parents.
FAO Schwarz Toy Store – This iconic toy store is a must-see, with giant stuffed animals, life-sized dolls, and hands-on play areas for young shoppers.
Big Bus Tour – hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus that takes you around the city’s most iconic attractions, including Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty – book here
Where to get candy and the best dessert in NYC
Lexington Candy Shop – An old school soda shop, perfect for classic milkshakes and sundaes.
M&m store – Fun spot where you can create your own grab-and-go bag of M&Ms in any colour and flavour combo you like.
Economy Candy – A retro candy shop
The sugar factory – Known for its over-the-top desserts and giant milkshakes
Serendipity – Famous for its Frozen Hot Chocolate
Levain – NYC’s best chunky, gooey cookies
Juniors – The best cheesecake in NYC
If you’re looking for the best places to eat in NYC, click here.
FAQ
Is travelling to NYC with kids easy? Yes and no. It depends on how far you’re willing to travel and your child’s age. Many metro stations don’t have elevators, so getting around with a stroller can be challenging—but not impossible. Also, New Yorkers walk fast, so keep an eye on your child to avoid any accidental bumps!
How to make travelling to NYC with kids more affordable – NYC can be pricey, especially when dining out with the whole family. To save, consider taking advantage of free attractions like Central Park, the Staten Island Ferry, or the New York Public Library. When it comes to meals, try budget-friendly options like pizza spots, street tacos, grab-and-go delis or check out the app : Too Good To Go!
What’s the best time to visit NYC with kids – I think the best time to visit NYC with kids is in spring (April-June) or fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring. Spring has beautiful blooms, while fall offers colourful leaves and Halloween fun. Summer can be too hot for little ones, and while winter is lovely with holiday decorations, it’s cold, dark, and snowy weather can make getting around harder.
How to make travelling with kids to NYC easier and less stressful? – To make travelling with kids to NYC easier, plan a mix of activities so there’s a balance between busy spots and relaxing breaks. Pack snacks and water, and try to take it slow – it’s easy to get caught up in the city’s fast pace. Stick to a few key attractions each day and include downtime in parks or quieter spots like the library.
Are there any safety tips we should know for travelling with kids in NYC? – Stay close in crowded areas,hold hands, teach kids your contact info, be cautious on the subway, plan for bathroom breaks
What should we pack for the trip? – Check my list here
I hope this blog has helped with your trip planning! There’s nothing quite like experiencing NYC through a child’s eyes, and it’s a city where you’re bound to create unforgettable family memories. Have a wonderful time, and if you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment!
