Taking the kids on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Times Square is a fun activity. Especially on a cold day when you can bundle up and enjoy the sights and sounds of this iconic New York City landmark!
A trip to the Statue of Liberty is a great way for children to learn about history and ideals. Book a tour in advance to save time and avoid waiting.
1. The Statue of Liberty
The iconic green copper Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and immigration. It is located on Liberty Island and can be visited by taking a boat from Manhattan or Ellis Island. Book your timed ticket in advance online.
Kids of all ages will love the colorful exhibits at the Color Factory where the immersive experience is based on NYC neighborhoods and features ombre floating balloons, a walkable infographic, and even Dora and Diego-themed activities. Kids can also splash around at a 22-foot water table and discover more NYC color surprises through a free Color Map at the end of their visit.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met, can seem overwhelming for a family outing but you can avoid a sensory overload by picking up a Family Guide at the information desk (or downloading it in advance) and using it to navigate the museum. The exhibits change frequently and span a wide range of topics from ancient Egypt to thought-provoking modern art.
2. FAO Schwartz
After much hype and anticipation, FAO Schwartz reopened this fall with its iconic location at Rockefeller Center. The toy store spans two-and-a-half levels and features signature experiences that will inspire oohs and ahhhs from the moment you enter. Whether you’re looking for a classic Build-a-Bear workshop, an in-person magician or the famous floor piano featured in the 1988 Tom Hanks film Big, your kids will find something to love here.
The new FAO carries the beloved brands of Build-a-Bear, Discovery #mindblown and Barbie as well as the original teddy bear maker Steiff. Our little ones were able to save the day with their own PAW Patrol Lookout, got Alex Spa tattoos and rode the BRIO train. It was the perfect way to spend an afternoon in NYC with the family.
3. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan
The Upper West Side’s CMOM is a 38,000-square-foot hub that inspires children and their families to discover themselves in a culturally diverse world. Its exhibitions foster development in art, science, math, social skills, and reading, among other things. Ticket prices start at $14 per child ages four and up.
Whether they’re fans of Chef’s Table or Milk Bar, your kids are sure to love baking with NYC’s famous chefs! They can whip up cakes at one of several Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. Tickets cost between $35 and $50 and can be booked online.
This museum in the heart of the city is a must for any NYC trip with kids. They’ll learn about the city’s rich history as they explore everything from old school bucket brigades to the modern day FDNY. Children ages five and under are free.
4. The New York Public Library
From the iconic stone lions out front to the sprawling collections, this renowned library is one of NYC’s most underrated family-friendly activities. Little ones will swoon over the kid-friendly books, games and toys in the Children’s Center while older kids can check out the Historic Toy Collection (including the original Winnie the Pooh bears!).
The museum-like exhibitions are curated by NYPL staff and include stories about the objects in their context. For example, a photo of the original Polaroid camera, which Edward Land and Chester Carlson developed at the library, is featured in an exhibition that tells the story of the first photos.
The library is also known for its many events, from reading and craft sessions to study hangouts and club meetings. Check out their calendar to see what’s happening during your visit. For teen-aged kids, there’s even designated video game time!
5. The Intrepid Museum
Take your kids for an amazing adventure to explore the former aircraft carrier Intrepid, space shuttle Enterprise, Concorde and submarine Growler. With interactive exhibitions and the foremost collection of technologically groundbreaking aircraft and ships, visitors of all ages and abilities are inspired by American innovation and bravery.
After exploring the Museum, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park and let your kids run free or ride Jane’s Carousel – an authentic vintage merry-go-round purchased for this park. This is a great photo opportunity, too.
Don’t forget to check out The New York Public Library at night. The second largest library in the country, NYPL is a beautiful respite from the bustling city streets and you can browse 53 million items. Plus, anyone can get a card! Check out their events and programs here. You can also access their Learning Library for free online!
6. Times Square
Known as ‘The Crossroads of the World’, Times Square pumps out the NYC of the global imagination – yellow cabs, golden arches, soaring skyscrapers and razzle-dazzle Broadway marquees. Whether you’re celebrating New Year’s Eve or just admiring the huge Waterford crystal ball that glows on NYE or visiting the memorial to Jack Dempsey and George Cohan, this is an area with plenty of kid-friendly things to do.
While many of the shops here are typical tourist souvenir outlets, look for unique gifts like the Drama Book Shop (which Lin-Manuel bought in 2020), and a three-story interactive M&M store where you can customize your own chocolate candy. Kids will also love the opportunity to add clipart, text and their own photo to a piece of chocolate. It even comes with a personalized greeting card! A great way to keep memories from the trip.
7. The New York Transit Museum
A visit to the New York Transit Museum is a great way for kids to learn about the city’s history. Located in an old subway station, this sub-level space is full of fascinating relics and exhibits. From the grueling construction of NYC’s rail lines to the early days of bus and train travel, this museum is sure to entertain and educate children.
During their tour, kids will see subway cars that date back to the 1800s. They’ll also see turnstiles and tokens (now available as cufflinks in the museum gift shop!) as well as old horse-drawn streetcars and trolleys.
8. The Met
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or simply the Met, is one of the largest art museums in the world. From tombs of ancient Egypt to thought-provoking modern art, this place will be sure to fascinate your whole family.
Check out one of NYC’s aquariums to learn more about marine life and even touch some creatures! Many of the aquariums in NYC also have different animal shows and interactive activities.
Embrace the city’s wintery weather and head to one of NYC’s skating rinks! There are tons of rinks all over the city including in Central Park and Brooklyn. Make sure to bring your ice skates or rent some. Alternatively, head over to Coney Island and enjoy the rides and fun! You can get discount tickets for both the ice rink and rides if you are a CityPass Holder.
9. The New York Public Library at Night
NYC isn’t just for adults, it’s a great place for kids too. From kid-friendly Broadway shows to world-class museums, there’s plenty of family fun to be had in this amazing city.
Featured in movies such as Ghostbusters and Sex and the City, the New York Public Library is one of the most famous libraries in the world. It is home to curated collections and an expansive research center on everything from theater to art history.
For families with younger children, the main branch is also home to a designated children’s space. They also offer a range of educational activities including bilingual events and homework club. Recently, the library has started offering late night and early morning hours in ten locations. This includes the Baychester and Morris Park libraries in the Bronx, the Stephen A Schwarzman Building in Manhattan and the Mid-Manhattan Library.
10. The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York City and an American icon. It was a symbol of hope and perseverance when it opened, and it continues to be that today. Kids can take a peek at the observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floor.
The Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum is a fun place to learn about the history of aviation and military technology with your family. Kids can check out the Captain’s chair, climb into the numerous jets on board and even explore the submarine.
If you’re planning to visit the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island or a Broadway show with your kids, be sure to buy tickets in advance. Many shows require children to be at least 5 years old, but there are plenty of options that welcome younger audiences. Also, be sure to check out the TKTS booths for 20-50% off same-day tickets.
