New York, NY · Guide

Things to do with kids in New York

1. 01

   Central Park

   4.8 (300,080)New York, NY, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   This massive 843-acre sanctuary features winding pathways, picturesque bridges, and open meadows. Visitors will find multiple playgrounds, ponds, and lakes that offer a natural escape from the surrounding Manhattan skyscrapers.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · Look for street vendors selling ice cream and drinks, and utilize the many benches throughout the park for rest breaks.
2. 02

   Times Square

   4.7 (243,660)Manhattan, NY 10036, USA
   Kids' menu likelyLoudBest for school-age

   Known for its ultra-bright LED billboards and towering skyscrapers, this plaza is a sensory-heavy experience in the heart of Manhattan. It is a central hub for street performers and sits within walking distance of Broadway theaters.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · Visit after a snowstorm if you want to see the area surprisingly quiet, or stick to the morning for slightly smaller crowds.
3. 03

   9/11 Memorial & Museum

   4.8 (94,336)180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007, USA
   CalmBest for school-age

   This respectful memorial and museum details historical events through a specific timeline, recorded stories, and personal artifacts. Interactive alcoves and a photo-free audio tour help guide visitors through the emotional exhibits.

   When to go: reserve on weekends

   Parent tip · Tissues are provided along the walkways, and an audio tour is available for purchase to provide helpful context for the story.
4. 04

   The Metropolitan Museum of Art

   4.8 (93,950)1000 5th Ave, New York, NY 10028, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   Housing a massive collection of art from ancient Egyptian treasures to Impressionist masterpieces, this museum is a global landmark. The expansive layout includes sculptures, architecture reconstructions, and galleries for every style of art.

   When to go: arrive before 10

   Parent tip · Purchase tickets online in advance and head directly to your most-wanted section first to avoid crowds that build throughout the day.
5. 05

   Rockefeller Center

   4.7 (201,362)45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10111, USA
   Kids' menu likelyLivelyAll ages

   A legendary landmark featuring a vibrant plaza that transforms with the seasons, from a skating rink in winter to a scenic strolling path. The site includes an observation deck and numerous shops and cafes.

   When to go: reserve on weekends

   Parent tip · Arrive early if you want to secure a good spot for sunset views, as some areas may be cordoned off for guests later in the day.
6. 06

   Brooklyn Bridge

   4.8 (92,375)New York, NY 10038, USA
   LoudAll ages

   Walking the wooden planks of this historic bridge offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. It is an architectural marvel that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn via a dedicated pedestrian pathway.

   When to go: no wait weekdays

   Parent tip · Take the subway to the Brooklyn side and walk back toward Manhattan to enjoy the best views of the skyline and Statue of Liberty.
7. 07

   Empire State Building

   4.7 (127,600)20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   This historical skyscraper features an indoor museum on its lower levels and a 360-degree observation deck on the 86th floor. Exhibits walk visitors through the building’s construction and its role in pop culture.

   When to go: reserve on weekends

   Parent tip · Bring a jacket for the outdoor balcony even in summer, as it gets very windy and cold at that height.
8. 08

   Statue of Liberty

   4.7 (112,076)New York, NY 10004, USA
   LivelyBest for school-age

   Reached by ferry, this iconic monument includes a museum housing the original torch and provides views of the Manhattan harbor. Visitors can explore the pedestal or climb to the crown with advanced tickets.

   When to go: reserve on weekends

   Parent tip · Book Crown Tour tickets months in advance and be prepared for eight flights of stairs if you opt to skip the pedestal elevator.
9. 09

   Bryant Park

   4.7 (107,340)New York, NY 10018, USA
   LivelyAll ages

   This well-maintained Midtown oasis features a seasonal ice rink, a Ferris wheel for children, and an abundance of public tables. It serves as a social hub with a holiday village in winter and outdoor movies in summer.

   When to go: walk-in only

   Parent tip · If you are a local or visiting in winter, bring your own ice skates to take advantage of free skating on the park's rink.
10. 10

    The High Line

    4.7 (67,546)New York, NY 10011, USA
    LivelyAll ages

    Built on an old elevated railway, this linear park offers a peaceful escape surrounded by lush greenery and flowering plants. It bridges the gap between attractions like The Vessel and Little Island with scenic city views.

    When to go: no wait weekdays

    Parent tip · Keep in mind the pathways are very narrow in some sections; it is best enjoyed at a slow pace with frequent stops.
11. 11

    Yankee Stadium

    4.7 (60,433)1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451, USA
    Kids' menuLoudBest for school-age

    This historic Bronx stadium is deep in baseball culture and features a museum dedicated to team history. The venue is notable for its diverse food choices, including high-end steak sandwiches and themed desserts.

    When to go: arrive before 6

    Parent tip · If attending on a giveaway day, arrive several hours early as items are limited and highly popular with fans.
12. 12

    The Battery

    4.6 (79,982)New York, NY 10004, USA
    LivelyBest for preschool

    Located at the tip of Lower Manhattan, this waterfront park offers clear views of the Statue of Liberty and the harbor. It features gardens, clean restrooms, and serves as the primary boarding point for island ferries.

    When to go: walk-in only

    Parent tip · Look for the banners on the park lamps which help kids identify local wildlife and birds found in the area.
13. 13

    SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

    4.7 (35,496)45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, USA
    LoudAll ages

    This immersive observation deck features mirrored rooms and artistic installations like silver balloons. The multi-level experience offers broad city views through floor-to-ceiling windows and outdoor glass elevators.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · Plan for a visit of about 2.5 hours and be prepared for a long line to catch the elevator back down during peak sunset hours.
14. 14

    Madison Square Garden

    4.7 (34,588)New York, NY 10001, USA
    Kids' menuLoudBest for school-age

    A legendary arena hosting professional basketball and hockey games as well as world-class concerts. Behind-the-scenes tours offer access to the history of the venue, while the refitted interior features diverse food stands and clear sightlines.

    When to go: reserve on weekends

    Parent tip · If you are seated in the high 400 sections, you might not see the main Jumbotron, but there are dedicated TV screens to follow the action.
15. 15

    The Museum of Modern Art

    4.6 (60,132)11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019, USA
    CalmBest for school-age

    This museum showcases world-famous contemporary and modern art, including masterpieces by Monet and Van Gogh. The facility is well-organized with plenty of seating throughout several floors of sculptures and paintings.

    When to go: arrive before 11

    Parent tip · Visit early on a weekday to avoid crowds, and spend about 2 hours to move through the galleries comfortably.