41 Fun Things to Do in New York City with Kids (Updated) – 2024
If you’re sitting in New York and googling “Best spots near me” or “What to do in NYC with kids?” You’ve landed on the right page.
We will be answering all the possible questions you might have about visiting NYC with your children.
The city of New York.
There really is no other spot like this on the planet.
At least, this is what the films and our New York pals tell us.
People have proudly declared it the finest city on the planet.
Sinatra sang about it for a purpose even when you’re hesitant since it’s self-proclaimed.
It’s unquestionably a fantastic family vacation place.
We’ve compiled a list of the finest things to do in NYC with kids to help you traverse through it.
Best things to do in New York City with children
1. Staten Island Ferry
Every major tourist listicle in New York City includes this as a high recommendation.
There’s a cause behind this.
Why visit?
The boat provides an excellent sight of the Statue of Liberty and New York Bay.
It’s a half-hour trip on one end and one of the greatest things to do in the city for children.
On your journey back, you really should stop by the St. George area to get some more stunning shots.
2. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
When it comes to famous views, this is unquestionably one of the best.
The Ellis Island Migration Museum is one of the best destinations for children in NYC for both amusement and learning.
Why visit?
It offers them a taste of what it was like to come to the city of opportunities.
Get the youngsters an audio guide of the Statue of Liberty when you arrive at the summit.
You can reach the crown if you are taller than four feet.
There was also a new exhibit with immersive displays in this area.
3. One World Observatory
This is an excellent starting point if you’re seeking the greatest playdates in NYC.
For one thing, the kids will love riding in one of the world’s fastest lifts.
Why visit?
They’ll certainly be in one of the world’s highest skyscrapers, which is an adventure that even adults desire to enjoy.
The 100th level includes HD films that provide a bird’s eye perspective of New York and the Sky Link.
4. South Street Seaport Museum
This institution was one of the locations that suffered significant damage during the Sandy Hurricane but was recovered.
Why visit?
A terrific destination to learn everything there is to know about watercraft, vessels, and our nautical history, including information about the five iconic ships docked here.
There are also family-friendly entertainment options, such as learning how to operate a typewriter.
After that, board an excursion sailboat around the harbor for a tour.
5. Children’s Museum of the Arts
Wondering where to take kids for fun? Since it is created to amuse children, it is a lot of fun for the kids.
Why visit?
It covers 10,000 sq ft and offers a variety of diversions such as painting classes to keep the kids occupied.
Children can also look at the hundreds of drawings and paintings done by other children and possibly be motivated.
6. New York City Fire Museum
If you’re visiting New York with children, the fire museum is one of the must-see attractions.
Why visit?
It is located in a classic Beaux Arts mansion in Soho from the early 20th century.
It features old fire apparatus, so the encounter is a half investigation of an art piece and half fire safety exercise.
In addition, you will know about the history of NYC firemen.
7. Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex
This is an excellent pick for an entire evening of family enjoyment.
This recreational complex is located on 28 hectares on 3 Hudson Waterfront piers.
Why visit?
It contains 80,000-square-foot intramural fields, a golf course, and a bowling alley, among many other amenities.
There’s also a jacuzzi if you wish to relax.
There’s also an ice court nearby if you just want to skate around.
And it’s accessible 24/7/365 a year.
There’s also a fantastic leisure pool for people who wish to chill down.
The Chelsea Docks are located close to a 52000 sq ft facility.
8. National Museum of Mathematics
If visitors find Mathematics intimidating or geeky, this place will change mindsets.
Why visit?
It’s one of those underappreciated locales with a wide range of kid-friendly activities just waiting to be found.
It features several displays demonstrating the importance of mathematics, science, and innovation in daily life.
Also, there are small wonders like block-wheeled tricycles and a variety of mind-boggling riddles and teasers.
Drawing on a digital canvas is also an alternative.
So even if you’re not interested in arithmetic but are interested in the arts, you’ll appreciate this gallery.
9. Empire State Building
We really can not pass it up, and neither should anyone.
Empire state might already be on your itinerary, but it is one of the most extraordinary things to do in New York with children.
Why visit?
The 102nd-floor tower, for instance, is a state-of-the-art building.
You’ll fly over 1,200 feet beyond NYC and experience a bird’s-eye perspective of the metropolis.
Without needing to travel to Manhattan, the entire family may get an excellent view of the cityscape.
10. New York Public Library
The famed marble lions Endurance and Courage (no, those aren’t their real names, but they’re similar) greet you at the New York Public Library’s entryway.
Why visit?
The structure itself is a beautiful pleasure for individuals who love architectural design.
To see this, go to the Rose Main Central Library in the renowned Park Avenue skyscraper.
There is a particular area for children where they could meet Winnie the Pooh and get lost in the books section.
11. Bryant Park
These are among the best spots to visit with kids during the wintertime.
An ice rink opens at 8 a.m. every day and is open until 10 p.m.
Why visit?
This is even better for teenagers since they can skate ahead of schedule if you reserve a space for them.
Then you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate, which is really the cherry on top of the experience.
12. The New Victory Theater
This is a musical theatre devoted to delighting children.
And because it’s not for business, you’ll be doing excellent while having a really good time. If you are a theatre fan, this is the place to go.
Why visit?
It’s similar to a beginner’s class in cinema, choreography, and live performances for individuals of all ages.
The New Victory Theaters also has a circus theme, making it one of the top children’s activities in any city.
You may also watch an autism-friendly show that includes warnings preceding loud noises or soft lighting.
13. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
You’re in heaven if you’re a fan of flying.
Why visit?
As the name implies, this exhibit in Hell’s Kitchen is a tribute to American history in water, aviation, and beyond.
In addition, it is home to the legendary airship Intrepid.
This exhibition is more than just enjoyable.
It’s highly beneficial for both the children and their parents.
14. Spyscape
If your children enjoyed the 2001 smash Spy Kids, you must treat them here.
It launched downtown in 2018 and boasts a plethora of kid-friendly adventures that will keep kids entertained for hours.
Why visit?
There include spy-themed riddles, laser tag, as well as several other Mission Impossible-like games.
Whenever they’re through, they might even inform you if they’re an undercover operator, an astute analyst, or the new James Bond or Ethan Hunt in the case of Mission Impossible.
15. Roosevelt Island and Tram
It’s one of those unique historical forms of transportation.
It goes for two kilometers along the East River until Roosevelt Island.
Why visit?
When you arrive, you may visit Southpoint Park along the riverbank or walk to the North Cape Lighthouse.
There was also the Louis Kahn-designed Franklin D. Roosevelt 4 Liberties Playground, which has a fantastic perspective of Nyc.
16. Central Park
Before mentioning Central Park, we can’t speak about where to take kids in NYC.
This is the most attended urban park in the United States, constructed by Frederick Law Olmsted.
Why visit?
Central Park offers numerous fantastic entertaining spots, such as the vintage equestrian near the Dairy.
You may either enjoy the experience or snap a lot of photos here.
The freshly refurbished Belvedere Palace is also a significant favorite among teenagers.
17. DiMenna Children’s History Museum
This is yet another must-see gallery in New York, located within the New York Cultural Center.
It’s a modest venue designed to amuse teenagers. It has a detailed history of the place.
Why visit?
They may study historical figures such as Alexander Hamilton and interact with re-enactors.
It’s an excellent site to learn about the many stages in the growth of New York City.
18. American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History has treasure quests and the nation’s most significant dinosaur exhibit.
That has to attract your kids’ curiosity.
Gather the Children’s Guidebook and prepare for an entertaining day.
Why visit?
Visit the Discovery Hall, where children aged from five to twelve may receive a behind-the-scenes peek at science and research and examine samples and unusual treasures.
Don’t forget to visit the Hayden Planetarium. It’s among the greatest in the country.
19. Children’s Museum of Manhattan
If you want to explore someplace indoors, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan has 5 levels of excitement to serve.
Why visit?
There are engaging displays here that allow adolescents to dance and perform while still fitting in a fast tale as well as other low-key games.
It’s very near to Central Park, so if the weather cooperates, you can always go for a walk.
20. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
If your children enjoy painting and tales, this in Harlem will brighten their evening.
It takes up 17,000 sq ft on two distinct levels of an economical residential project.
Why visit?
It was created by British designer David Adjaye and is intended to amuse and teach students aged 3 to 8.
All year round, there are storytelling programs and art shows.
There are several seminars available, and if you are inspired, you may enlist children in a training program.
21. New York Botanical Garden
Installations at the New York Botanical Garden will blow your head off.
Why visit?
The Everett Children’s Expedition contains rocks and riddles to keep the kids entertained as you explore the sunflowers.
In the wintertime, there’s an extended Holiday Train Show that’s sure to keep the entire family entertained.
22. Museum of the Moving Image
It is yet another exhibition that children will enjoy.
You must see Behind The Stage, which displays thousands of movie-related relics when you’re here.
The Star Warriors need a Chewbacca disguise.
Why visit?
There are also engaging exhibitions where youngsters may try their hand at making stop-motion cartoons.
They are also capable of producing ambient sounds and flipbooks.
Don’t forget to check out the unique Jim Henson display, which has authentic dolls from his efforts.
Sesame Street, the long-running PBS show, was shot nearby at the Kaufman Astoria Productions.
23. Queens Museum
If your children are fans of Legos, this location will cheer them up.
To begin with, The Panorama of the City of New York is a detailed representation of NYC’s five boroughs.
Why visit?
It was created in the early 1960s for the 1964 World’s Fair and has also been modified throughout history.
The entire family may also participate in seminars that will unleash the painter within each of you.
24. New York Hall Of Science
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)
The New York Hall of Sciences is a shrine for persons who are interested in STEM disciplines.
Why visit?
It is just another work of art from the 1964 International exhibition.
Toddlers may enjoy the Science Park.
The Athletics Challenge combines physics and mathematics to improve the experience of athletics.
To keep the summer days in mind, there’s also an indoor park with aquatic elements. All of this is merely a preview.
25. Brooklyn Bridge Park
This is a sanctuary for parents and kids, spread out across 85 hectares of sheer bliss.
One of the best sights to see is the Manhattan horizon.
Why visit?
It stretches for more than 1.3 kilometers along the East River and is separated into portions.
There are 6 renovated docks with parks nearby.
A visit to Slide Hill, the old carousel at Empire Fulton Bridge, and roller skates at Dock 2 round out the event.
26. New York Transit Museum
You may sneak a sight of the New York Transit Gallery if you’re in Grand Central Station (geostationary site) or in Williamsburg.
Why visit?
This is a disused metro station with interactive technologies that teach kids about subway heritage.
Students may study fare collecting and railway development.
During your time, you may also get up close and personal with historic subway vehicles and coaches.
27. LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park Brooklyn
The LeFrak Center at Bayside Central Park in Manhattan is a terrific place for a great day out with the family, whether it’s cold ice skating or summery roller skating.
Why visit?
It is situated on 75,000 sq ft. of land and offers a variety of leisure pursuits all year long.
There’s a water pad for warm days, including over 40 sprinklers.
Visitors could bring their own skates or lease some.
28. Brooklyn Children’s Museum
We guarantee that this is the final gallery in New York.
Although there’s a significant amount of history to explore, this is the initial museum explicitly designed for toddlers and teenagers.
Why visit?
It was formed in the early 1900s and has received several honors.
At World Brooklyn, you’ll discover little stores where youngsters may pretend to be merchants and developers.
There are miniature ecosystems and a greenhouse at Neighborhood Ecology.
And this is just the beginning; the joy and discovery you will encounter here have no limits.
29. New York Aquarium
Coney Island is synonymous with great times.
During your time there, you should visit the New York Aquarium, it is accessible all year.
Why visit?
You may discover a wide range of aquatic species.
A fresh exhibit named “Ocean Wonder: Sharks,” which spans 57,000 sq ft and is situated on the boardwalk, has currently stolen the spotlight.
Aquatic creatures and saw-toothed carnivores can be found here.
30. Governors Island
Another island is included in the checklist of must-do excursions in NYC.
It was formerly an army facility with properties and grounds.
Once you’re here, it’s as if a piece of New England has been transported into New York City.
Why visit?
It’s 800 meters from Manhattan and can also be reached via boat.
It’s similar to a park, complete with meandering walks and arcades.
You’ll discover a number of the city’s most outstanding food carts here, and it’s a New York embodiment to remember.
In a ‘New York minute,’ relax and take in the cold sea wind.
31. Little Island
This raised playground seems to hover above the Hudson River and also is built atop tulip-shaped cement shells. But Little Island is more than simply a breathtaking 687-seat auditorium.
Why visit?
It hosts a variety of family-friendly celebrations and musical theater events; the majority of these are free and do not need bookings. Browse out the island’s cellphone center for DIY workshops, or get a backstage to peek at how artists develop live concerts. Little Island is open every day. However, bookings for timed access are essential for protection.
32. Circle Line Sightseeing Tours
Viewing NYC’s most iconic sights by cruise is one of the most picturesque activities to do in New York City with children.
Why visit?
On a relaxed tour on a comfy outdoor sundeck that provides magnificent sights of the city, you’ll see all of the landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Yankee Stadium. Five cruises that range in length from 45 minutes to two and a half hours will provide a fascinating and enlightening peek into NYC’s rich heritage while simultaneously providing a plethora of excellent photography opportunities. Tickets begin at $17 per head.
33. Sloomoo Institute
Get Ready to be a little dirty at this sensory park themed on the pleasures of slime. Wander through a unique ASMR tunnel or take a walk across a vibrant slime pond.
Why visit?
A personalized eight-ounce jug of slime from the DIY store is included in the fantasy adventure. With just an upgraded pass, children (and parents) may “slime” in a poncho and glasses. Tickets for regular admission are 39 dollars, and the session is available from Monday to Thursday.
34. Museum of Ice Cream
Nothing compares to this ice cream feast in Soho. 13 immersive and multi-sensory exhibits will captivate children and their parents. Float in a giant pool with 100 million sprinkles (Visitors are not allowed to dive in currently due to COVID.
Why visit?
there is an upgraded experience), roll down a multiple-story indoor ice cream gateway, and pass through the colorful tunnel. Admission tickets are 44 dollars and include ice cream and entrance to all 13 displays, which are accessible every day but Tuesday.
35. Color Factory
The Color Factory’s innovative and inventive displays, themed on the colors seen in New York City, will captivate all of your children’s senses.
Why visit?
There are ombre flying balloons, a walking infographic that takes visitors to their “secret hue,” a gigantic ball well, and complimentary refreshments all along the route. And the fun doesn’t stop there—a complimentary Color Map will lead you around adjacent areas and point out additional bright delights made by the Color Factory. The exhibition is open every day but Wednesday and costs $28 for kids aged 3 to 12 and $38 for adults and kids who are 13 and above.
36. Dylan’s Candy Bar
Candy, chocolates, and more candy—this confectionery emporium’s leading site is an authentic Willy Wonka workshop including over 7,000 delectable delicacies.
Why visit?
A candy tree and giant candy cane pillars will tempt every kid making Dylan’s Candy Bar one of the loveliest things to do in New York with children. Kids will enjoy filling their hampers with the huge candy selections all along the sidewall, which include tasty throwback delicacies like malt bombs and more than 50 different varieties of delicious candies. Another one of their stores has opened in Hudson Yards.
37. Edge NYC
Do you wish to spend your life living on the edge? Then take your children to this breathtaking outdoor activity on the sky deck, the tallest in the West.
Why visit?
The 52-second high-speed lift journey will excite you all, which will transport visitors 1,100 feet into the air to an out-of-the-world unobstructed view. The mirror-angled side walls will make you feel like you are floating in mid-air, as well as the stunning 360-degree perspective will allow the visitors to soak in the whole New York cityscape, from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty. The promenade is available daily; tickets begin at 31 dollars for kids and 36 dollars for grownups.
38. Ellis Island
Crowds board the boats that travel from Manhattan’s Prospect Park to Liberty and Ellis Islands, which comprise the Statue of Liberty Historic Site in Greater New York Harbor.
Why visit?
Holding her light at the gilded entrance, the famous woman is the best welcome to the place where several Americans’ ancestors immigrated. The vast red-brick structure completed in the 1900s housed 12 million refugees when the coastline closed in the mid-1950s. Today, approximately 100 million individuals are connected to those refugees, and a trip brings their narrative vividly to reality.
39. Gulliver’s gate
From dollhouse furnishings to railway kits to Legoland, children adore the miniature artwork. That is precisely what Gulliver’s Gate at Times Square does for every one of its 50,000 sq ft.
Why visit?
Its Lilliputian scenery in exquisite, meticulous detail, from the delicately vaulted ceiling of Grand Central Terminal to the 0.8-inch tall miniatures of genuine guests, will captivate the attention of little visitors—and yours—from the outset. The roads are packed with miniature characters in mid-action and moving automobiles, but it’s the mysteries that are the most exciting to find, such as Spiderman poised to dive from the Brooklyn Bridge. Visitors can even acquire miniatures of themselves and their families at the gift store.
40. Jane’s Carousel
There can not be too many carousels with finer sights than Jane’s, located in Empire-Fulton Ferry Complex, between Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge.
Why visit?
Each rotation provides exhilarating glimpses of downtown Manhattan, the river crossings, and the historic brick DUMBO factories. The 48-horse hardwood carousel, constructed in 1922, is an instance of successful personal cooperation; owners Jane and David Walentas purchased and refurbished the carousel, presented it to Brooklyn Bridge Campground, and hired architect Jean Nouvel to construct a cubic glass enclosure to contain it.
41. Bronx Zoo
The tiny creatures in your group will happily spend the entire day at the nation’s most extensive urban menagerie. Spanning 265 acres, it’s ideal for preparing ahead of time by selecting the activities the family will like to see – you could even hire an individual or double carriages when your legs wear out. Expect to go when it opens, or browse the zoo’s webpage for special pre-events like brunch with penguins or exotic cats. Regarding food, everybody in the Kid’s Zoo farmyard may feed the little Nubian goats, ponies, and sheep. The Exotic Asia Monorail, a 20-minute journey, seems to be the only route to seeing some of the most iconic creatures, including Asian elephants, rhinoceros, and red pandas.
There’s also an overhead cable line and a 300-meter zip line over the Bronx River to keep the teenagers engaged.
Conclusion
New York City has an endless list of family-friendly activities to offer. These are some of our best picks to ensure you have a great time with your kids and make unforgettable memories.
It includes everything from leisure to exploration. NYC also gives all the grownups the chance to be the kid they are at heart and live fully. This is the city of dreams, and undoubtedly everyone in the family will have a great vacation. Without worry, you can enjoy your stay too, because this list will take care of the children.
These are some of the best things to do in New York City with kids. Hoping you have an unforgettable, amazing vacation.
