New York City is home to plenty of kid-friendly activities. They can run around NYC’s jungle gyms, which are packed with slides and swings, or take a Superman Tour to see different landmarks featured in the superhero film series.
There are free family attractions, like the Staten Island Ferry and its scenic cultural center. Or, they can enjoy a fun day at Coney Island and try out its rides and food stalls.
1. USS Intrepid
Aircraft lovers and kids will love a trip to the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. This non-profit, educational institution features a range of military exhibits including the aircraft carrier Intrepid, a submarine, and a pair of supersonic planes, along with a number of flight simulators. There’s also a video theater where you can see footage of some of the biggest events in American history, such as the Apollo 11 moon landing.
The namesake of the Museum is the former USS Intrepid, an Essex-class aircraft carrier that gives visitors a unique look into four decks of the ship. Launched in 1943, the Intrepid fought in World War II and later served as a NASA recovery vessel. On Veterans Day 2008, it was recommissioned after a trip to Staten Island for interior refurbishment and new museum exhibits. The rechristening ceremony was a bit of a comedy of errors: Despite attempts by admiral and Mrs. Hoover’s daughter to break a champagne bottle over the ship, it held firm.
Located on Pier 86 on Manhattan’s West Side, Intrepid is the centerpiece of a complex that includes the Space Shuttle Pavilion, the submarine Growler, and a trio of high-tech flight simulators. The Intrepid was also home to the Concorde Alpha Delta G-BOAD, which served as one of the fastest transatlantic passenger jets (it could complete a crossing in under three hours).
You can enter the aircraft carrier at any point during your visit, but if you want to learn more about it, you’ll need to take one of the daily guided tours ($20/adult). You’ll be able to explore all three hangar decks and the flight deck while hearing about how the carrier operated in combat, escorted spacecraft to their destinations, and assisted astronauts in returning safely from outer space.
The Intrepid is a popular destination for Fleet Week festivities, so expect it to be busy during those periods. However, you can always come by and visit during other times of the year. The New York Pass and the New York City Sightseeing Flex Pass include admission to Intrepid, which is a great value for families.
2. Brooklyn Bridge
New York City is full of iconic sights, museums and experiences that will leave a lasting impression on kids (and adults) at every age. From the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island immigration museum to New York City playgrounds and public parks dotted along the waterfront, this kid-friendly city has an abundance of unforgettable family trips waiting to be explored.
Take in a show at the iconic Brooklyn Bridge Park and check off one of the top things to do in NYC with kids. From traditional Broadway shows to extravagant dance, music and theater performances at St. Ann’s Warehouse in DUMBO, there is a show for everyone to enjoy! You can also catch a game at the Barclays Center and cheer on the Nets with your family, or enjoy a day of learning about our ecosystem at the Environmental Education Center in Pier 6.
The High Line is another one of the best places to visit in New York with kids. Located in Chelsea, this converted elevated railroad track has great city and street art views while offering kids the chance to climb, play and have fun! It’s also the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, with many restaurants offering up delicious treats such as pizza, burgers and bagels.
There’s even a tot playground for the youngest members of your family and the chance to pet a friendly dog or two! Then, get your photo taken with the famous residents of this park – the peregrine falcons.
New York City is brimming with great museums to explore, but you can’t go wrong with the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Known as “the Met” to locals, this incredible museum can easily be visited in a few hours and will appeal to all ages and interests. With a Sightseeing Pass, you can save on admission prices for kids and seniors.
3. Central Park
No trip to NYC is complete without a visit to Central Park. The world’s largest urban park is filled with fun activities for the entire family.
Most families know that Central Park is packed with playgrounds, but the park also offers a lot more than that. From a performing musical clock to a whimsical statue of the Ugly Duckling, there’s plenty to see and do in this iconic NYC attraction.
The Central Park Zoo is open all year and is a great place to see animals from all over the world. The zoo is free and children will enjoy learning about the animals.
There are 21 official playgrounds in Central Park so kids will never run out of places to play. In addition to the playgrounds, there are many recreational facilities where children can skate, pedal, row, dribble and climb their hearts out.
Central Park is home to many popular restaurants including Tavern on the Green and Belvedere Castle (look for the turtles in the pond). Families can rent rowboats at Bethesda Terrace Arcade, enjoy the sound of live musicians at Strawberry Fields and take a ride on the famous Central Park Carousel.
Those looking for something more low-key can grab a book at the Delacorte Theater or watch the talented buskers at the Bethesda Fountain. The Central Park Zoo is also nearby and the merry-go-round at the Carousel is a favorite of kids.
If the kiddos are still looking for something to do, head over to the American Museum of Natural History. This Upper West Side museum explores human cultures and the natural world and is sure to fascinate kids of all ages. The exhibits are interactive and will engage kids in a way that will make them forget they’re actually learning!
The New York City Public Library is another great free attraction for kids. There are reading rooms and play spaces that offer a variety of activities for kids. The library is also the location for a variety of children’s performances throughout the year.
4. Statue of Liberty
As one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, seeing the Statue of Liberty in person is a must-do for any NYC family trip. Located on an island in New York Harbor, this colossal copper-clad statue is the universal symbol of freedom and democracy. This popular attraction is an unforgettable experience for the entire family, and it’s a great way to teach children about America’s rich history.
While many people know that the Statue of Liberty is a famous American monument, not everyone understands its significance in history and culture. It’s a reminder of all the hard work that went into building our country and serves as a sign of hope for future generations. For this reason, the Statue of Liberty is a powerful and important monument that everyone should see at least once in their lives.
Dedicated on October 28, 1886, the Statue of Liberty stands tall on Bedloe’s Island (which was once known as Liberty Island). The colossal copper-clad figure was a gift from the people of France to the people of the United States and represents both liberty and democracy.
Visitors can view the statue from a boat ride in New York Harbor or climb to its crown for an up close experience. In addition to the statue itself, the Statue of Liberty Museum offers a number of educational and interactive exhibits for kids. The Kids’ Corner is a great place for younger children to learn about the history of the United States, while older kids can enjoy the Voices exhibit, which showcases personal stories from immigrants and their experiences in America.
The Bronx Zoo is a massive attraction that features exotic animals from all over the world. From a gorilla exhibit to a stunning tiger enclosure, this is a wonderful way to get away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan and take in some natural beauty.
While the zoo is not free, it is an inexpensive attraction that is sure to delight children of all ages. To save money, purchase tickets in advance online. The New York Aquarium is another excellent option for families. It’s home to hundreds of marine species, from colorful fish and coral to majestic whales. The museum also has hands-on science labs and exhibits that will appeal to young kids.
