New York City stands out as a prime destination for travelers seeking an array of experiences in entertainment, art, culture, and food. There’s an abundance of activities for all ages, making it a perfect spot for family trips.
When it comes to entertaining kids, NYC offers a wealth of options. From cultural museums and amusement parks to exciting events, you and your little ones can enjoy endless fun while exploring the Big Apple’s vibrant landscape. With countless Things to Do in NYC With Kids, the city promises unforgettable memories for the whole family. These experiences can easily become bucket list things to do in New York for both kids and adults alike.
51 Exciting and Fun Things to Do in NYC with Kids
1. Ride the Sea Glass Carousel in NYC
Experience an underwater adventure with the Sea Glass Carousel. This unique ride in Battery Park features large fiberglass fish that light up with changing colors, creating a magical ocean scene. Kids will love the excitement of riding these “fish” and feeling like they’re exploring the deep sea. This is one of the many unique things to do in NYC that will create unforgettable memories for the whole family. It’s a must-do activity for anyone looking for Best things to do in New York.
2. Fun at Central Park
Central Park offers a world of fun for the whole family, providing endless opportunities for adventurous things to do in New York. From spotting wildlife and enjoying outdoor activities to experiencing the magic of street performers and diverse food options, there’s something for everyone. It’s the perfect place to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones, especially if you’re looking for fun things to do in NYC this weekend.
3. Cruise Sightseeing Tours in NYC
Sightseeing cruises offer more than just stunning views; they’re perfect fun activities in nyc for couples. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and unforgettable photo ops while cruising past iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the breathtaking skyline. You can also plan it around night, to gaze at the scenic beauty that NYC delivers. It’s one of the few things to enjoy in New York at night.
4. Spend Time at Little Island
Little Island is a floating public park on the Hudson River. Shaped like tulip petals, this park offers lush greenery, lovely water views, and a theater for various arts and cultural events. It’s a great spot for family fun without any entry fee.
5. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum in NYC
Taking selfies with celebrities is quite exciting, but it’s not always easy. But what if you tell you that you can with their wax figurines. You can do a lot of weird things in New York, but this one tops the cake. Madame Tussauds Wax Museum offers lifelike wax figures of famous personalities and superheroes. Kids can enjoy exhibitions like Marvel Superheroes and Ghostbusters, making it an exciting visit for the whole family.
6. Spy Scape Museum in NYC
Spy Scape Museum offers an exciting and interactive experience perfect for both crazy things to do in New York and Things to do in New York for first-timers. Kids and adults alike will enjoy testing their spy skills through engaging exhibits and challenges.
7. Governors Island Adventures
Governors Island is perfect for a family day out from March to October. Kids can enjoy activities like bike riding, playing in lush parks, exploring hills, and enjoying food from various vendors. The ferry ride to the island also adds to the excitement.
8. American Museum of Natural History
Explore the wonders of natural history at this museum. Kids can see dinosaur fossils, learn about ocean life, and enjoy hands-on activities in the Discovery Room. It’s a must-visit for curious minds. Best thing is, it’s completely free. It’s one of the few cheap things to do in NYC.
9. Best Pizza Spots for Kids in NYC
NYC is famous for its pizza. Treat your kids to delicious slices at popular pizzerias like Joe’s Pizza, John’s of Bleecker Street, Juliana’s, and more. These places offer various styles and flavors that kids will love.
10. Best Ice Cream Spots for Kids in NYC
Kids and ice cream are a perfect match. Visit iconic spots like Ample Hills Creamery, Brooklyn Farmacy, China Town Ice Cream Factory, and Milk and Cream Cereal Bar for delicious and unique ice cream treats.
11. Kid-Friendly Broadway Shows
Broadway offers a range of shows perfect for kids. Enjoy musicals like Aladdin, The Lion King, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, and The Little Shop of Horrors. It’s a memorable experience for the whole family.
12. Sesame Street Musical Show
The Sesame Street Musical Show is a fantastic live performance that kids will adore It’s the best thing to do in NYC with toddlers. Featuring their favorite characters, this show is both entertaining and educational, making it a hit with families.
13. Christmas Spectacular Show
The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall is a must-see during the holiday season. This festive show features the Rockettes and dazzling performances that will leave kids and adults alike in awe.
14. Gazillion Bubble Show
The Gazillion Bubble Show is a mesmerizing experience with bubbles of all shapes and sizes. Kids will be amazed by the bubble artistry and interactive elements of this unique show.
15. Illuminate Dance Show
The Illuminate Dance Show combines dance and technology to create a captivating performance. The glowing costumes and synchronized moves make it a thrilling experience for kids.
16. Monday Night Magic
Monday Night Magic offers family-friendly magic performances that will leave kids spellbound. This weekly show features talented magicians and mind-bending tricks.
17. Luna Park at Coney Island
Luna Park is an amusement park located at Coney Island. With thrilling rides, carnival games, and delicious snacks, it’s a fantastic spot for a fun-filled day with kids.
18. Chinatown Fair Arcade
Visit Chinatown Fair Arcade for a day of fun games and activities. This classic arcade offers a variety of games that will keep kids entertained for hours.
19. Laser Bounce Arcade
Laser Bounce Arcade features laser tag, arcade games, and more. It’s a great place for kids to unleash their energy and have a blast with friends and family. It’s not just limited to kids, people of all ages can enjoy, it’s one of the top things to do in NYC with family.
20. Dave and Buster’s Game Arena
Dave and Buster’s combines dining with gaming. Kids can enjoy a wide range of arcade games while parents relax and enjoy a meal, making it a family-friendly outing.
21. Funtopia USA
Funtopia USA offers a variety of attractions, including climbing walls, bumper cars, and arcade games. It’s an all-in-one entertainment center that kids will love.
22. Bronx Zoo Adventures
The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the world, offering a chance to see animals from all over the globe. Kids will enjoy animal exhibits, interactive experiences, and educational programs.
23. Whale and Dolphin Watching
Embark on a whale and dolphin watching tour for a chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. It’s an exciting and educational experience for kids.
24. Explore Atlantic Ocean Shores
Head to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean for a day of fun in the sun. Kids can build sandcastles, collect seashells, and splash in the waves.
25. Kayaking Adventures
Enjoy kayaking with kids on the Hudson River. It’s a great way to explore the water and enjoy the beautiful views of NYC from a different perspective. The best part is kids aren’t the only ones to get to enjoy. It proves as best things to do in NYC with teens.
26. New York Aquarium
Visit the New York Aquarium to see marine life up close. Kids will love the exhibits featuring sharks, sea lions, and more, along with interactive displays.
27. Pumpkin Picking Activity
During the fall, take the family to a pumpkin patch for some pumpkin picking fun. It’s a perfect seasonal activity that kids will enjoy.
28. Headless Horseman Day
Celebrate Halloween with a visit to the Headless Horseman Children’s Day. This event features spooky fun, hayrides, and Halloween-themed activities for kids.
29. Museum of Ice Cream
The Museum of Ice Cream is a colorful and interactive museum dedicated to everyone’s favorite frozen treat. Kids can explore various themed rooms and enjoy delicious ice cream.
30. Color Factory
The Color Factory is an immersive art exhibit that focuses on colors. Kids can engage with interactive installations, making it a fun and educational outing.
31. LEGOLAND Discovery Center
LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers a world of LEGO-themed attractions. Kids can explore interactive exhibits, play areas, and even build their own creations.
32. Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours
Hop-on, hop-off bus tours are a convenient way to see NYC’s top attractions. These tours allow families to explore at their own pace and visit landmarks throughout the city.
33. Yankee Stadium Tours
Take a tour of Yankee Stadium to learn about the history of the New York Yankees. Kids can see the field, visit the dugout, and explore exhibits about the team’s legendary players.
34. Madison Square Garden Events
Madison Square Garden hosts a variety of sports events and concerts. Check the schedule for kid-friendly events like basketball games or family concerts.
35. Small Is Beautiful Exhibit
The Small Is Beautiful exhibit features miniature art pieces that will fascinate kids. This unique exhibit showcases detailed and tiny artworks, encouraging kids to look closely and enjoy the intricate details. Not many people know about the exibit, you could say its one of the hidden things in New York.
36. Brooklyn Children’s Museum
The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum designed for children. It offers interactive exhibits on science, culture, and the arts, making learning fun and engaging. If your kid has a deep interest with learning about history, then spending a day at the museum can be a great birthday present. It’s one of the fun things to do in New York for Birthday.
37. Museum of the City of New York
The Museum of the City of New York has exhibits that explore NYC’s history and culture. It’s a great place for kids to learn about the city’s past and its diverse communities.
38. Stroll Around Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park offers beautiful waterfront views and playgrounds for kids. It’s a great place for a family walk, a picnic, or some playtime with stunning skyline views. You could also plan out a date with your significant other. Strolling through a park or planning a picnic is one of the most romantic things you could do in NYC.
39. Roosevelt Island Tram Ride
Take a ride on the Roosevelt Island Tram for a unique aerial view of the city. Kids will enjoy the experience of floating above the East River and seeing the cityscape from a different angle.
40. Kid-Friendly Dining Spots
NYC has many dining spots that cater to families with kids. Look for restaurants with kid-friendly menus and fun atmospheres like Ellen’s Stardust Diner or Serendipity 3.
41. Visit Observatory Decks
Take your kids to one of NYC’s observatory decks like the Empire State Building or One World Observatory. The panoramic views are breathtaking and offer a great perspective of the city’s skyline.
42. Children’s Adventure Garden
The Children’s Adventure Garden at the New York Botanical Garden offers interactive exhibits and nature exploration activities. Kids can learn about plants and nature in a hands-on environment.
43. Seaport Museum Exploration
The Seaport Museum showcases NYC’s maritime history. Kids can explore exhibits, historic ships, and participate in educational programs about the city’s seafaring past.
44. Play in NYC Playgrounds
NYC can be pretty expensive, but that’s not always the case if you look hard enough. If you want your kid to do something free in the NYC, then consider visiting the local playground. NYC has numerous playgrounds that are perfect for kids to run, climb, and play. Popular spots include Central Park’s Heckscher Playground and the High Line’s Pershing Square Beams.
45. Fun at Escape Room Thousand Boxes
New York can get all gloomy, as it can limit you and your kid indoors, but don’t let a little rain damper the mood. There are still a lot of fun things to do in New York in the rain, we recommend the Thousand Boxes Escape room. It offers themed rooms where kids can solve puzzles and complete challenges. It’s a fun and interactive way to develop problem-solving skills.
46. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum
The Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling features art and storytelling exhibits designed to inspire young minds. Kids can engage with interactive displays and participate in creative workshops.
47. Holiday Train Show
The Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden is a festive display of model trains and miniature NYC landmarks made from natural materials. It’s a magical experience for kids during the holiday season.
48. The Big Bubble Experiment
The Big Bubble Experiment is a fun activity where kids can create giant soap bubbles. It’s a playful and interactive experience that will delight kids of all ages.
49. Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree
Visit the iconic Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, a quintessential NYC holiday experience, but for those seeking unusual things to do in New York, consider exploring hidden gems like Bryant Park’s winter village or the enchanting holiday lights at Dyker Heights.
50. Winter Village at Bryant Park
The Winter Village at Bryant Park offers ice skating, holiday shops, and seasonal treats. It’s a festive and fun winter activity for families to enjoy together.
51. Hudson River Park Fun
Hudson River Park features playgrounds, sports fields, and bike paths. Families can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities along the scenic waterfront.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best attractions for families in Manhattan?
There are many places in Manhattan that families love to visit. Kids and adults can both enjoy the Central Park Zoo and the American Museum of Natural History. The Empire State Building offers incredible views, and the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is fantastic for hands-on learning.
What special activities can children do in NYC?
Kids can do many unique things in NYC. Visits to Tannen’s Magic Shop for magic tricks and accessories, exploring creativity at the Crayola Experience, and enjoying the immersive exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History like “The Secret World of Elephants” are some memorable activities.
Where can families go in NYC without spending money?
There are plenty of free options for families in NYC. Central Park is always a favorite with its playgrounds and open spaces. The High Line offers a unique park experience with views of the city. Kids also enjoy seeing the Alice in Wonderland sculpture in Central Park.
How do I find fun things for kids to do in NYC this weekend?
You can find entertaining activities for kids in NYC by checking event listings on websites like Time Out New York or Secret NYC. These platforms offer up-to-date information on events happening in the city, tailored for families.
What are the top kid-friendly places in Upstate New York?
In Upstate New York, many destinations cater to families. The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester is a favorite for its interactive exhibits. The Adirondack Mountains offer outdoor adventures, and the Wild Center in Tupper Lake showcases nature’s wonders.
How can families with children make the most of a visit to New York City?
To enjoy a family trip to NYC, plan a mix of indoor and outdoor activities. Visit museums in the morning and then spend the afternoon at parks like Central Park or Battery Park. Consider using multi-attraction passes to save money on admissions. Using public transportation like subways and buses can also be an exciting adventure for kids.
