Guide to New York City with kids

Planning a family trip to New York City, but feeling intimidated about what to do and how to get around? On the blog, I will share our Guide to New York City with kids to help you plan your family vacation to NYC, especially if it’s your first time visiting!

I include how to get around the city, the top things to do with kids, and some tips to make the most of your visit. We visit New York City every year and have compiled some of our favorite family-friendly attractions.

We never get tired of visiting the city, and no matter how many times we visit there’s always something new to discover.

---

This post may contain affiliate links. Affiliate links are no extra charge to you, but I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase.

---

BOOK A TOUR:

How to get around New York City with kids

---

If it’s your first time visiting New York City with kids, the hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a great option. They are very convenient, and you get to visit most of the main attractions, plus you get to learn some NYC history along the way.

You can easily get around on foot as well. NYC is a very walkable city, and most of the main attractions are within walking distance.

Be prepared for lots of walking though, and make sure to bring a stroller for the little ones, and wear comfortable shoes! There is so much to discover when you explore NYC on foot.

*TIP: I suggest picking a specific neighborhood to visit and exploring it on foot. New York City is huge so don’t expect to see it all in one day!

The subways are also very convenient and they literally have a stop just a short walk away from all the major hot spots in the city.

It only cost 2.75 each way no matter how far you’re going and they’re pretty reliable and safe!

The best part is that when traveling with kids, up to three children 44 inches tall and under ride free when accompanied by a paying adult!

If you’re staying for more than one day, you can purchase the 7-day unlimited MetroCard for $33. You have unlimited swipes on the subway and local buses.

Map of New York City

Where to stay in New York City

We have visited New York City a few times and we always love to stay close to Central Park. We love having the option to have a park nearby when we want some peace and quiet for the day.

The Sheraton New York Times Square is our go-to hotel when we visit NYC because they have their own parking garage which makes it easy when driving into the city.

• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Central Park
• Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan Midtown West
• Courtyard New York Manhattan Midtown West

Booking.com

Top things to do in New York City with kids

---

Visit the iconic Times Square in New York City with kids

One of the first places that come to mind when visiting New York City with kids is Times Square.

I mean you can’t visit the city without a stop at this iconic square, especially if it’s your first time! Overrated or not, it’s a must-see for first-time visitors.

Kids are always so fascinated with this place! It could be all the bright lights or the tall buildings, but they just seem to be in awe every time.

There are so many fun places to visit here with kids, like a visit to the M&M and Hershey store, Line Friends, and seeing their faces on the giant screen!

*TIP: I recommend you visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds, it’s so much nicer to see it crowd-free!

BOOK A TOUR:

Visit the Rockefeller Center

One of the most iconic places to visit in NYC with kids is the Rockefeller Center.

This is where you can visit the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, see the NYC views at the Top of the Rock, and where you can watch the taping of the Today Show and Saturday Night Live.

Don’t forget to visit the newly opened FAO Schwarz toy store and let the kiddos have the time of their lives on the BIG piano. You can also find the LEGO store, and the American Girl flagship store here as well.

Rockefeller Center also has lots of shopping and dining options as well, and there’s also a new outdoor pop-up winery on the plaza called the City Winery. Grab a glass of beer or wine and enjoy the city views while you take a break from sightseeing.

READ NEXT: Read about our visit to New York City at Christmas time here!

BOOK A TOUR:

Admire the New York City views at the Top of the Rock

While you’re at the Rockefeller Center, make sure to visit the Top of the Rock for the most amazing views of New York City!

The Top of the Rock observatory is open from 10am-10pm daily. Make sure to reserve your timed entry tickets ahead of time online. You have three different ticket options:

• General Admission: $40 adults / $34 child / Senior $38
• Express Pass: $85 Get immediate entry to the viewing decks, priority elevator access, and a 20% discount at the gift shop.
• VIP Tour: $125 Skip the line guided, exclusive tour of the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, including Top of the Rock Observation Deck and Rainbow Room.

Catch a Broadway show

A visit to New York isn’t complete without taking in a Broadway show.

What’s more iconic than the Rockette’s Christmas Spectacular during the holidays at the Radio City Music Hall.

You can easily purchase tickets online for various shows, or at the TKTS booth in Times Square. You can also download the TodayTix App and get last-minute theatre tickets.

Explore Central Park in New York City with kids

When visiting New York City with kids, make sure to block out a whole day at Central Park.

Central Park is home to some 36 bridges, a zoo, a skating rink, and amazing playgrounds for the kiddos.

There’s so much to see and do in Central Park with kids, just make sure your kiddos are up for the walk.

You can also go on a horse-carriage ride around Central Park, or rent an electric bicycle here.

Another option to explore Central Park with kids is to bring a scooter for the little ones. Our little one can go for miles when she’s on her scooter!

Check out this awesome folding scooter for the kiddos, it’s similar to the one we carry along when we travel.

With over 800 acres to explore, you would need a few days to see it all, luckily most of the main sights and activities are located within close walking distance of each other.

READ MORE: A Visit to Central Park with kids.

BOOK A TOUR:

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

New York City is home to some of the most amazing museums, but one of our favorites has to be the American Museum of Natural History.

Kids are always so entranced with fossils and learning more about all living things.

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest in the world and has a vast collection of amazing things as well as a planetarium and a library.

• Hours: Open daily from 10am-5:30pm.
• Tickets: General admission costs $28/adults- $16/Child (3-12)- $22/Senior (60+)- $22/Student (with ID).
• Reservations for timed tickets are required and you can reserve online here
• Location: 200 Central Park West New York, NY 10024-5102

BOOK A TOUR:

Visit the New York Public Library

I highly recommend a visit to the New York Public Library. The library is a great place to let the kiddos unwind after a long day of sightseeing.

They have an awesome children’s Library on the ground floor, and the real Winnie the Pooh stuffed toys on display there.

You can also explore the upper levels and be amazed at the various rooms in the library.

• Hours: Mon.,Thurs., Fri., & Sat. 10am-6pm / Sunday 1-5pm / Tues. & Wed. 10am-8pm
• Location: 476 5th Ave. New York, NY 10018

Explore the Flat Iron District 

Known for the iconic wedge-shaped Flatiron Building, this neighborhood in NYC is worth a visit. There are so many dining options in the area, including one of the best Italian markets/restaurants at Eataly. 

Madison Square Park is here as well and is an oasis in the city. There is lots of green space to lounge on, and you can indulge in some yummy burgers at Shake Shack located in the park. 

If you have Harry Potter fans, don’t miss a visit to the Harry Potter flagship store right next to the Flatiron building.

Not only can you shop for some Harry Potter merchandise, but you can also indulge in some butterbeer as well!

To manage capacity at the store, you must scan the QR displayed outside and fill in your details. A notification will be sent to you when it’s your time to enter (you have one hour to return to the store). When the virtual queue is full, the store will turn off the QR code for the day.

Visit the 9-11 Memorial

On your visit to New York City, you can’t miss a visit to the 9-11 Memorial. The kids may not grasp the tragedy that happened here, but they will for sure enjoy the fountains and the surrounding area.

You can also take them up to the One World Observatory for some amazing views of the city. Make sure to reserve timed-entry tickets online before you visit, and follow safety guidelines.

They will especially love the Murals located nearby. The murals which are free to view are one of the coolest areas in the city, with their colorful animated street art. 

Visit the Oculus 

Located right next to the 9-11 memorial is this amazing-looking building that is actually a train station and shopping mall.

The Oculus is a feast for the eyes and one of the most unique structures you will find in New York City.

This state-of-the-art train station and the mall is the perfect place to take a break, especially when visiting NYC in the summer.

There are many cool shops and dining options here, and the main floor is the perfect spot to let the kiddos burn away all the extra energy!

Make sure to visit Eataly at the Oculus, you will find everything Italian here, from fresh produce, handmade pasta, and a handful of restaurants serving the yummiest food.

BOOK A TOUR:

Visit Hudson Yards

*Note: The Vessel is temporarily closed!

One of the most exciting areas in New York City is the Hudson Yards neighborhood.

There is so much to do in the area, including The Vessel, which is a structure and landmark located in the Hudson Yards public square. 

The elaborate honeycomb-like structure rises 16 stories and consists of 154 flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings for visitors to climb. 

For those that can’t climb the steps, there is an elevator that can take you up. 

Tickets to the Vessel are free for the first hour of each day with advance reservations, after that first hour, you must purchase timed entry tickets (reserve them here).

Admission costs $10 per person ages 6 and up. Kids 5 and under are free!

There are so many other things to do in Hudson Yards, like The Shed, which is a museum that features established and emerging artists’ works under one roof.

The Edge is another must-do, and features the highest outdoor sky deck, which is suspended in mid-air, where you can get the most amazing NYC views!

You can also shop to your heart’s content at the Shops at Hudson Yards, which features lots of shopping and restaurants.

READ MORE: How to spend the day at the Vessel and Hudson Yards

New York City with kids

---

Stroll the High Line 

Another must-do when visiting New York City with kids is a stroll along The High Line. 

The High Line is a public park built on a historic freight rail line. This is one of the most unique uses of space in the city and was saved from demolition by the neighboring residents. 

The High Line is FREE and goes about 1.45 miles long running from Gansevoort St. to 34th St. on Manhattan’s West Side.

There are gardens and artwork to enjoy along the way, plus there are free public tours and events on the High Line.

The free public tours are on a first come first served basis, with no more than 10 people, due to restrictions. Visit the website here for more information.

• The High Line’s hours vary by season:
  Fall (October 1 – November 30): 7am to 10pm
  Winter (December 1 – March 31): 7am to 7pm
  Spring (April 1 – May 31): 7am to 10pm
  Summer (June 1 – September 30): 7am to 11pm
• Elevators are available at Gansevoort Street and Washington Street (Northwest corner)(Temporarily out of service)
  • 14th Street and 10th Avenue (Southwest side)
  • 23rd Street and 10th Avenue (Southeast side)
  • 30th Street and 10th Avenue (Southeast side)

Visit the Camp Store

The Camp Store at the Shops at Hudson Yards is a must-visit with kids. Camp is an interactive space for kids to play and shop, along with other fun activities.

There’s an indoor play area with slides, a craft room where you can purchase craft kits, storytime, slime boot camp, and more.

It’s a fun day out for the kids, and there are several locations in the city, including one on 5th ave.

BOOK A TOUR:

Cross the Brooklyn Bridge 

You can’t miss a visit to one of the oldest bridges in the United States when visiting NYC.  

Built in 1883, Brooklyn Bridge has become an icon of New York City and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. 

You can easily cross the bridge on foot, or rent a bicycle. It’s an easy one-mile trek and totally doable with the kids. Just be prepared for crowds, especially when visiting in the summer. 

The best time to visit Brooklyn Bridge crowd-free would probably be early in the morning while everyone is still asleep. Either way, it’s a must-do when visiting New York City.

Let the Kiddos run around at Battery Park

Another amazing open space in New York City is a visit to Battery Park. From here, you can get on the ferry to the Statue of Liberty or to Staten Island.

There is also an amazing Seaglass Carousel here for the kiddos and a big open space for them to run around. 

Visit the Empire State Building 

You can’t miss a visit to the iconic Empire State Building in New York City with kids. The best panoramic views of the city can be found here and it’s so amazing!

Make sure to reserve your timed entry tickets online ahead of time, and face coverings are required on your visit.

Visit Liberty State Park

The best views of the NYC Skyline can be found at Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

This is also the best place to get views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island up close!

We happened to drive into the park on our way back home from a road trip, and it was the best road trip layover. The best part is parking is free!

This green oasis in the city is the perfect place to get away from the bustle of the city.

The highlight is definitely the two-mile-long promenade, perfect for a long walk, jog, or even a bike ride. There are also many walkways and trails within the park. 

Liberty State Park also has an amazing playground for the kiddos and a picnic area. This is one of the most beautiful parks we’ve seen, with the million-dollar views of NYC! 

From Liberty State Park you can catch a ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. 

Visit Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park was one of our favorites because of the amazing play areas for the kiddos.

You will also find the Triumphal Arch here which celebrates the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration as President of the US in 1789.

Washington Square Park is an awesome place for families to relax for a moment while the kids play.

Light a candle at St. Patricks Cathedral

St. Patricks Cathedral is one of New York City’s famous landmarks. It reminds me of the churches in Europe and is absolutely beautiful.

Visit St. Patricks Cathedral and let the kiddos light a candle. It’s one of our little one’s favorite things to do at every church we visit.

Sit in one of the pews and just take in the beauty, it’s the perfect place for some peace and quiet in the city. Get your daily Visitors Passes here, or purchase tour tickets online here to learn more about the 142-year history on a guided tour.

Visit Trinity Church

Make sure to visit Trinity Church, it is one of New York City’s oldest churches and is absolutely beautiful.

You can even visit Alexander Hamilton’s tomb, located in the cemetery adjacent to the church. Trinity Church is located on Wall Street, close to the 9-11 Memorial.

Take a stroll around New York City with kids

One of the best things to do in New York City with kids is a stroll along the beautiful neighborhoods! There’s so much more to discover on foot in New York City.

On one of our strolls along the Tribeca neighborhood, we stumbled on the original Ghostbusters firehouse which was so cool! I’m a big fan of the movies and it was pretty awesome to see it in person.

Where to eat in New York City

---

There are so many choices of places to eat in the city that it can be overwhelming. We’re always on the go in NYC and we always choose easy-to-grab options. 

Some of our favorite grab-and-go options are pizza from Famous Rays and the Gyros platter from the Halal Guys located on West 53rd and 6th Ave.

We also love Le Pain Quotidien for breakfast, Magnolia Bakery, and Pret-A-Manger for some yummy pastries and coffee on the go!

Some of our favorite restaurants in the city so far is Eataly, there’s one in the Flat iron district, and one in the Oculus. We love Italian food and Eataly has it all. 

We also love Momofuku noodle bar, there’s one in the shopping center at Columbus Circle.

 I’ve also heard great things about the Stardust Diner, where the wait staff is aspiring Broadway performers, and you get some entertainment while waiting on your food. (temporarily closed)

The Shops at Hudson Yards also have many dining options, including the Citarella food market, Shake Shack, Fuku, and more.

BOOK A TOUR:

I hope I have inspired you to book that New York getaway with kids! It’s such an amazing city to visit in any season.

If your planning a trip in the winter, make sure to check out our blog on things to do in New York city with kids during the holidays! Once you visit I’m sure it will be the best family vacation, and you’ll always long to come back.

*Check out this post for more inspiration on some family travel ideas in the US.

Save on Pinterest for later!

Disclaimer: Skylar Arias Adventures is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. These links are no extra charge to you, but I may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase.