Family Fun In New York City

So you’re planning a trip to New York with the whole family, but you’re not sure what to do or where to go? We’ve got you covered with our top 6 list of family-friendly activities for you and the kids.

Central Park:
Kicking off our list is Central Park in Manhattan. It’s a great place to visit if you want to get some fresh air or fight back against your jet-lag after travel. With luscious green grass, plenty of playgrounds, and beautiful lakes, there’s always things to do in Central Park. Head over to the Central Park Zoo to see some unique animals, like the leopards, sea lions, and penguins. If you’re looking for more activities check out the central park website for full details on events being held in the park.

Top of the Rock:
Another fantastic attraction is the Top of the Rock observation deck in the Rockefeller Center. From 70 storeys up in the sky you get a fresh perspective of the New York skyline. Most notably you see the Empire State building at elevation and up close, like you’ve never seen it before. Pair up the visit with a guided tour of the building and learn about the history, art, and architecture of New York.

The Empire State Building:
You knew it was coming! The Empire State Building offers you New York’s most breathtaking view. On a clear day you can see all of Manhattan and the neighbouring boroughs. With 360º views in every direction you can see every building in New York. Be sure to take in the incredible lobby, with its 24-carat gold ceilings and walls, and the beautiful engravings. On the way up you can stop off at the museum, where you can learn about how the famous building was designed and built.

Times Square:
This one is a quintessential New York landmark and an absolute must-see, especially at night. The atmosphere at Times Square is electric and brightly lit by the flashing billboards and signs that light up the sky; the perfect family photo opportunity. Once the wonder and awe has worn off you can grab a bite to eat or head into one of the huge shops nearby. Be sure to check out the Disney, M&M, and Hershey stores and watch your kid’s eyes light up! You can also visit Broadway to see a show at one of the many theatres nearby.

Statue of Liberty:
It wouldn’t be a trip to New York if you didn’t visit the Statue of Liberty. Located off the coast of Jersey, the Statue of Liberty is only accessible by ferry. Keep in mind that this ferry is public transport, so you may not get a seat or a perfect view of the statue. The ferry goes to Staten Island and you can choose to simply see it from the boat or take another straight to the island it stands on.

9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero:
One of the more emotional locations on the list is the 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero. The sight features a museum and memorial, both of which are stunning pieces of architecture. There are countless exhibitions and events being held at the museum, giving you the full history of the tragedy. The memorial features two one acre large pools at the base of where the North and South World Trade Center towers once stood.