Some may assume that New York City is primarily a destination for adults because of its renowned dining scene, architecture, cultural institutions and nightlife. In reality, the city also offers a wide range of attractions and experiences that make it an excellent choice for a family vacation. As the largest and most densely populated city in the United States, it provides countless opportunities for children and adults to explore together.
Below, we detail 15 of the best activities and attractions for children in New York City for family trips. These locations and offerings can help inspire an enjoyable and memorable vacation for travelers of all ages.
1. Bronx Zoo
A visit to the Bronx Zoo ranks among the best New York family activities for all ages. As one of the largest zoos in the country, this Wildlife Conservation Society-operated attraction houses hundreds of species and more than 6,000 different animals from all corners of the planet. It's got inherent appeal for both grown-ups and children; however, there are also numerous kid-oriented activities on offer. Young ones are sure to love such organized zoo experiences as the penguin and sea-lion feedings, for example.
Check the zoo website to learn more about temporary and rotating exhibits as well as any special events going down during your visit (such as the Pumpkin Nights Festival and other holiday happenings).
2. Children’s Museum of Manhattan
Located on the Upper West Side of the city, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is worth a visit for those traveling to New York City with young children. This fun and engaging museum offers some of the best New York City kid activities for young children, especially those ages eight and under.
This five-story museum offers a wide selection of exhibits designed to excite children, such as the popular “Adventures with Dora and Diego” exhibition. Ideal for children ages two through six, this exhibit teaches children about animals and their habitats, teaches problem-solving skills and helps them develop language and math abilities.
A ticket for entry into the Children’s Museum of Manhattan is valid for the whole day, which means you and your family can browse through exhibits at your own speed.
3. Empire State Building
Consider a visit to the Empire State Building as part of your New York family activities. Ranked the #1 Attraction in 2022 and 2023 by Trip Advisor, a visit to this iconic building is a New York must-do. Ideal for families with kids of any age, the full gang will savor some spectacular 360-degree views from the Midtown skyscraper.
During your visit, don’t miss the exhibits located on the 2nd and 80th floors of the building that offer learning opportunities about its history. The main deck is located on the 86th floor, which includes an open-air observation deck to explore as well. To further your experience, you might want to check out the dining options located within the Empire State Building, such as the State Grill & Bar.
4. Central Park
Central Park is another popular choice for New York family activities, spanning from 59th Street to 110th Street. This sixth-largest of the Big Apple's parks is the most-visited urban park in the nation. In Central Park, you’ll find plenty that can appeal to the entire family, such as taking a carriage ride or pedicab tour for some relaxing (and charming) sightseeing.
Many events and entertainment opportunities take place in Central Park too, so be sure to check out what’s happening on the event calendar during your visit dates. On a perfect weather day, pack lunch and set up a picnic while you and your family enjoy the vibrant parkland greenery.
5. M&M Store
You'll be hard-pressed to find a kid who doesn’t love chocolate and candy, with a visit to the iconic M&M's Store in Times Square acting as the perfect way to treat yourself and your family. Situated on Broadway, this two-story chocolate store is an experience in itself, offering M&M varieties that'll dazzle your eyes and get that sweet tooth of yours going into overdrive.
The M&M's Store offers more to do than just browsing for your favorite chocolate. During your visit, you and your family can also create customized M&M’s with your own images, colors and text, a fun and hands-on activity sure to mint a few memories.
6. The American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is widely regarded as one of the finest institutions of its kind in the world. Established in 1869, this renowned Manhattan landmark, located across from Central Park, offers an extraordinary range of exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages. Its galleries present a remarkable collection of taxidermied animals, fossil mounts, cultural artifacts and other educational displays. The museum is also known for high-quality temporary exhibitions, special events and family-friendly programs.
Several permanent halls are especially notable. The Akeley Hall of African Mammals features famous wildlife dioramas, including a striking group of African elephants and a mountain gorilla specimen prepared by pioneering naturalist Carl Akeley. Other galleries explore subjects ranging from Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest to outer space at attractions such as the Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites and the Hayden Planetarium.
The museum’s fourth-floor fossil halls are a major highlight. These exhibits feature prehistoric animals from across Earth’s history, including the well-known skeleton of Tyrannosaurus rex, which has been displayed since 1915. Visitors can also see a dramatic 122-foot cast of Titanosaur along with the enormous jaws of Otodus megalodon.
Families may enjoy the museum’s monthly A Night at the Museum experience for children ages six to twelve and their guardians, which recalls the popular Night at the Museum film series set at the institution. Visitors will also find several convenient dining options on-site, including the Restaurant at Gilder and the museum’s lively food court.
7. The Staten Island Ferry
Operated by the City of New York since the early 1900s (replacing long-running private ferry services), the Staten Island Ferry is a famous Big Apple institution. Free to ride, operating 24 hours a day and seven days a week and giving close to 70,000 passengers daily, the ferry line serves commuters between St. George on Staten Island and Whitehall Street in Manhattan. It's also known as a beloved sightseeing vessel, providing some of the best views in the metropolis.
Along its roughly five-mile, 25-minute route across New York Harbor, it serves up first-rate looks at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the skyline of Lower Manhattan, making it a really must-do experience for young and old alike.
8. Coney Island
With the first roller coaster opening at the site in 1884, kids have been having fun at Coney Island for quite a long time. This western district of the Coney Island peninsula, historically part of Long Island's Outer Barrier archipelago, offers a bevy of amusement attractions: from Luna Park and Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park to standalone rides, games and the (family-friendly and modern) Coney Island Circus Sideshow. Other draws include the mighty impressive New York Aquarium, Coney Island Museum and Maimonides Park, a Minor League Baseball ballpark and multipurpose sports stadium. There are also plenty of places to grab a bite amid all of the seaside fun.
9. The Brooklyn Bridge
Among the most famous bridges in the country, the Brooklyn Bridge spans some 1,600 feet across the East River between Brooklyn Heights and Lower Manhattan. Along with all of the many vehicles driving across it, this 1883-built stone-arched bridge welcomes walkers on its pedestrian promenade and cyclists taking advantage of a protected bike lane established in 2021.
Taking the family across the Brooklyn Bridge, either by foot or by pedal power, gives you all the chance to revel in a standout historical and architectural landmark while also appreciating some of the city's best vistas.
10. Rockefeller Center
The gleaming Art Deco towers of Rockefeller Center, a designated Rockefeller Center National Historic Landmark, are among the most recognizable features of the Midtown Manhattan skyline and also serve as a popular destination for family-friendly activities. One highlight is the Top of the Rock Observation Deck located atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, where visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the city from the 70th floor. Additional attractions include Skylift at Top of the Rock and The Beam at Top of the Rock, which recreates the famous Lunch atop a Skyscraper photograph taken during the construction of Rockefeller Center.
The complex is also home to several well-known attractions, including prominent toy stores, guided tours of NBC Studios and live performances at the legendary Radio City Music Hall. During the winter season, visitors can enjoy the long-standing tradition of skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center, which has welcomed skaters since 1936 and remains one of the city’s most iconic seasonal experiences.
11. The Museum of Ice Cream
The Museum of Ice Cream isn't a traditional museum by its own admission, but rather an "experium": an immersive, interactive facility centered on hands-on engagement and shared thematic experiences. In this case, the theme in question is ice cream, making this an ideal kid-friendly attraction. From the Hall of Freezers to Banana Jungle, from Sundae Kitchen to the Sprinkle Pool (similar to a ballpit, but with oversized ice cream sprinkles), you're all liable to have a blast here and learn a little about ice cream's history in the process.
12. Catch a Broadway Show
The Midtown Manhattan Theater District is renowned as one of the finest places to see live plays and musicals in the world. Depending on your family's interests, doing so can become one of the defining centerpieces of your New York City trip. The area offers more than just operas, with family-friendly productions abound, not least such long-running staples as The Lion King, Wicked, Aladdin and Harry Potter & the Cursed Child.
13. Explore the Superlative Dining Scene as a Family
Dining is an essential part of the experience in New York City. This proudly multicultural city offers cuisines from around the world along with creative culinary blends that reflect its remarkable diversity. Families can introduce children to the classic atmosphere and memorable flavors of well-known delicatessens such as Katz's Delicatessen and Russ & Daughters.
Traditional diners are another enjoyable option. Restaurants such as Old John's Luncheonette and Ellen's Stardust Diner provide a lively setting that appeals to visitors of all ages. Pizza lovers will also find many outstanding choices, including John's of Bleecker Street, Don Antonio and Juliana's.
The city’s dining scene also highlights inventive global influences. Taco Mahal blends Latin American and Indian flavors, while Nan Xiang Xiao Long Bao is especially well known for its soup dumplings. Street food is another defining part of the local culinary culture. Food carts and trucks throughout the city serve favorites such as halal platters along with classic items like hot dogs and pizza slices. Popular choices include Adel's Famous Halal Food and Mido's Halal Food, which are widely appreciated for their flavorful and satisfying meals.
14. Queens County Farm Museum
Set on the biggest remaining parcel of farmland in New York City, the Queens County Farm Museum also marks one of the longest continually farmed plots in the Empire State. While the museum dates from the mid-1970s, it occupies the grounds of a Colonial-era farm established in 1697. Offering free daily admission except on special ticketed event days, this working farm and interpretive facility is a rustic and educational change of pace from the busy activity of the city.
15. The High Line
Established in 2009, the High Line has become an iconic example of New York City's green spaces. Developed along the raised corridor of a historic rail line, this lushly landscaped viaduct path serves up wonderful views of the cityscape and some fine gardens and public-art displays as it runs between the Meatpacking District and the West Side Yard. It's a great way to get the kids some fresh air while enjoying some on-foot Manhattan sightseeing.
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