If you’re looking for things to do in NYC with kids, look no further! This list has something for everyone.
From Broadway shows to zoos and aquariums, your family will have a blast exploring everything New York City has to offer.
Keep reading for our top 30 picks!
#1. American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids. The museum is home to a huge collection of artifacts and specimens, ranging from dinosaur bones to minerals and stones.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits, educational programs, and films. Families can explore the museum together and learn about different cultures and natural history.
The museum is also a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can relax in the beautiful rose garden or enjoy a meal in the cafe.
With so much to see and do, the American Museum of Natural History is a great destination for families with kids.
#2. Brooklyn Bridge Park
Brooklyn Bridge Park is a gorgeous 85-acre park that stretches along Brooklyn’s East River waterfront. The park offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, and there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
For active kids, there’s a playground, a carousel, and a water Lab where they can cool off on hot days. There are also gardens and picnic areas for more laid-back activities.
And of course, no visit to Brooklyn Bridge Park would be complete without a walk or bike ride across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. Whether you’re looking for an active day outdoors or a leisurely stroll with breathtaking views, Brooklyn Bridge Park is sure to please everyone in the family.
#3. Brooklyn Children’s Museum
If you’re looking for a fun-filled day out with the kids in NYC, then be sure to add the Brooklyn Children’s Museum to your list! This kid-friendly museum is packed with interactive exhibits and programs that will educate and entertain your little ones.
From hands-on art activities to exploring different cultures, there’s something for everyone at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. And if you get hungry during your visit, there’s a café on site serving up healthy meals and snacks.
So bring your sense of adventure and get ready to have a blast at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum!
#4. Bryant Park
Bryant Park is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids. It is a beautiful, historic park that has something for everyone. The park has a carousel, a playground, a water fountain, and many other attractions.
In addition, there are plenty of places to sit and relax, and the park is also home to a variety of events throughout the year.
Whether you’re looking for a place to take your kids for an afternoon of fun or you’re looking for a venue for a family-friendly event, Bryant Park is an excellent choice.
#5. Central Park
New York City is a great place to visit with kids. There are so many things to see and do, and Central Park is a perfect place to start. With more than 850 acres of green space, Central Park is one of the largest parks in the city.
And there’s something for everyone, from the Zoo and the Conservatory Garden to the Carousel and the Alice in Wonderland statue. If your kids are into sports, they can play basketball or tennis, go for a run or bike ride, or even go ice skating in the winter.
Or if they’re looking for something more relaxed, they can take a horse-drawn carriage ride or take a boat out on the lake. No matter what your interests are, Central Park is sure to have something that everyone will enjoy.
#6. Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex
Looking for things to do in NYC with kids? Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex is a great option! This world-class facility offers something for everyone, with a wide range of activities and attractions.
Kids will love exploring the four indoor floors, which feature a climbing wall, batting cages, a bowling alley, and an arcade. And when they’re ready to burn off some energy, they can head outside to the sprawling outdoor space, which includes a playground, a track, and a soccer field.
There’s also an on-site restaurant and cafe, so you can refuel after a day of fun. Best of all, Chelsea Piers is easily accessible by public transportation, making it a convenient option for families.
#7. Children’s Museum of Manhattan
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in NYC, be sure to check out the Children’s Museum of Manhattan.
Located on the Upper West Side, the museum is dedicated to helping kids learn about the arts, sciences, and culture through interactive exhibits and programs.
Some of the museum’s most popular attractions include the Dinosaur Safari, where kids can learn about these prehistoric creatures; the Soar into Space exhibit, which teaches kids about astronomy; and Creative Connections, where kids can explore their artistic side.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is also home to a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year, making it a great option for a day out with the kids.
#8. Children’s Museum of the Arts
The Children’s Museum of the Arts is a great place to take kids in New York City. It is dedicated to providing children with a place to be creative and have fun.
There are plenty of activities for kids to do, and the museum also offers classes and workshops. The museum is also home to a theater, which often puts on shows that are suitable for children.
The staff at the Children’s Museum of the Arts is always willing to help out and make sure that everyone is having a good time. If you’re looking for a place to take your kids where they can learn and have fun at the same time, then the Children’s Museum of the Arts is definitely worth checking out.
#9. DiMenna Children’s History Museum
New York City is full of amazing attractions, and it can be tough to know which ones are best for kids. If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity, the DiMenna Children’s History Museum is a great option.
The museum offers interactive exhibits that teach kids about New York City’s past. They can learn about the Dutch settlers who founded the city, the immigrant experience, and the rise of industry in the city.
There are also opportunities to dress up in period clothing and explore a re-created 19th-century tenement apartment. Best of all, kids can have fun while learning about history!
#10. Empire State Building
A trip to New York City is a memorable experience for any child, and a visit to the Empire State Building is a must. Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Visitors can take an elevator to the 86th floor Observation Deck, where they will be treated to 360-degree panoramas of New York City. On a clear day, visitors can even see as far as New Jersey, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania.
There are also interactive exhibits on the observation deck that will teach kids about the history and architecture of the Empire State Building.
After taking in the views, kids can explore the rest of Midtown Manhattan, where they will find world-class museums, restaurants, and shops. A trip to the Empire State Building is sure to be a highlight of any trip to New York City.
#11. Governors Island
If you’re looking for a fun and free day out with the kids in NYC, then head to Governors Island! Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, Governors Island is a great place to explore, relax and play.
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities on offer, including playgrounds, sports courts, art installations, and picnic areas. The island is also home to a number of historic buildings, including Fort Jay and Castle Williams, which kids will love exploring.
And if you’re visiting on a weekend, be sure to check out the many family-friendly events that are often held on the island, such as concerts, festivals, and film screenings.
#12. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids. Located on the Hudson River, the museum is home to a variety of exhibits that explore the history of the sea, air, and space travel.
Kids will love climbing aboard the decommissioned aircraft carrier USS Intrepid, exploring the NASA space shuttle Enterprise, and checking out the collection of vintage aircraft.
In addition, the museum offers a variety of educational programs and events that are perfect for families.
Whether your kids are interested in learning about aviation or space exploration, they’re sure to have a blast at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
#13. LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park Brooklyn
LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park Brooklyn is a great place to take the kids for a day of fun. The center has an Olympic-size skating rink, a water playground, and a carousel.
In addition, there are several restaurants and cafes on-site, making it easy to grab a bite to eat. The LeFrak Center is also home to a number of events and programs throughout the year, including concerts, movies, and festivals.
Best of all, it’s located right in the heart of Brooklyn, so you can explore the rest of the city after a day of fun at the center.
#14. Museum of the Moving Image
The Museum of the Moving Image has a wide variety of exhibits that will keep kids entertained for hours.
Plus, they offer a variety of educational programming that can teach kids about the history and technology of film and television. The Museum is also conveniently located near other great attractions like Central Park and Times Square.
So whether you’re looking for a fun activity or a way to learn more about the film and television industry, the Museum of the Moving Image is a great option for families with kids.
#15. National Museum of Mathematics
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in NYC, be sure to check out the National Museum of Mathematics. The museum is dedicated to providing interactive exhibits and activities that help children learn about math and its applications in the real world.
From exploring geometry through hands-on activities to learning about the role of math in music and art, your kids will be sure to have a blast at the National Museum of Mathematics.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try your hand at one of the museum’s math-based challenges. Whether you’re a math enthusiast or just looking for a fun family outing, the National Museum of Mathematics is sure to please.
#16. New York Aquarium
The New York Aquarium is a great place to take kids of all ages. Located on the southern tip of Brooklyn, the Aquarium is home to over 350 species of aquatic animals.
Kids will love getting up close to sharks, stingrays, and other fascinating creatures. They’ll also enjoy touching tanks, where they can interact with sea stars and other invertebrates.
In addition to the main exhibit hall, the Aquarium also has a 4-D theater, a petting zoo, and a hands-on laboratory where kids can learn about the amazing world of marine science.
Plus, there are plenty of food and drink options on-site, so you can make a day of it. Whether you’re a local or just visiting NYC, the New York Aquarium is a great place to spend some quality time with your kids.
#17. New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden is a must-see for any family visiting NYC. With over 50 acres of gardens to explore, there is something for everyone.
Kids will love seeing the dinosaurs in the Fossil Hall, chasing butterflies in the Butterfly Garden, and getting up close and personal with the plants in the children’s garden.
And be sure to catch one of the many family-friendly performances or workshops offered throughout the year. The New York Botanical Garden is the perfect place to introduce kids to the world of plants and gardening.
#18. New York City Fire Museum
The New York City Fire Museum is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids. It’s packed with interactive exhibits that teach kids about fire safety, and it even has a replica of a 19th-century firehouse!
The museum also offers educational programs for school groups, and it hosts special events throughout the year. Best of all, admission is free for children under the age of 12.
So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for your little ones, be sure to add the New York City Fire Museum to your list!
#19. New York Hall Of Science
New York Hall of Science is a must-see for anyone visiting the city with kids. As the largest science museum in Queens, it offers a wide range of interactive exhibits and programs that are both educational and fun.
The museum also has an outdoor playground, a rocket park, and a garden where kids can explore and learn about the natural world.
In addition, the New York Hall of Science offers a variety of special events throughout the year, such as hands-on workshops, stargazing nights, and family science festivals. With so much to see and do, New York Hall of Science is sure to be a hit with kids of all ages.
#20. New York Public Library
One of the best things to do in NYC with kids is to visit the New York Public Library. With its iconic lions out front and over 50 million items inside, it’s a perfect place to explore with little ones.
Introduce your kids to the world of books with a trip to the children’s room, where they can find everything from picture books to chapter books.
Then head to the teen’s room, where they can find accommodations for their changing needs, including study spaces and Chromebooks. The NYPL also offers classes and programs for kids of all ages, from early literacy programs to enrichment classes.
And if you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a seat in one of the beautiful reading rooms and enjoy some quiet time together.
#21. New York Transit Museum
New York City is a great place to visit with kids, and there are plenty of fun things to do that will keep the whole family entertained. One of the best places to take kids is the New York Transit Museum.
This interactive museum lets kids explore different forms of transportation, both past, and present. They can sit in the driver’s seat of a subway car, play dress-up in 1890s attire, ride a replica trolley, and much more.
Not only is the Transit Museum fun, but it’s also educational. Kids will learn about the history of transportation in NYC, how the transit system works, and what the future of transportation might hold.
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity for your next trip to NYC, be sure to check out the Transit Museum.
#22. One World Observatory
If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience for the entire family, a visit to the One World Observatory is a must. Located at the top of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the Observatory offers stunning 360-degree views of New York City.
The Express Elevators take you to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds, and from there you can explore three floors of interactive exhibits. The Sky Pod Elevators offer an even more thrilling ride, taking you to the top in just 60 seconds.
On a clear day, you can see up to 50 miles away from the Observatory’s outdoor deck. And be sure to check out the Touchscreens, which provide fascinating facts and information about New York City’s landmarks. The One World Observatory is sure to be a highlight of your trip to NYC.
#23. Queens Museum
If you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in NYC, the Queens Museum is a great option. The museum is home to a number of interactive exhibits, including the Panorama of the City of New York.
This huge scale model of the city is perfect for kids, who can explore all five boroughs while learning about the city’s history and geography. The museum also has a number of hands-on art activities, as well as a kids’ scavenger hunt that is sure to be a hit.
And when you’re finished exploring the museum, you can take a stroll through nearby Flushing Meadows Corona Park. With so much to see and do, the Queens Museum is a great option for a family-friendly day out in NYC.
#24. Roosevelt Island and Tram
If you’re looking for a unique and affordable activity to do with your kids in NYC, be sure to check out Roosevelt Island and the Tram. Roosevelt Island is a small island located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens.
It’s a great place to explore nature, with plenty of green space and waterfront access. The Tram is a cable car that runs between Roosevelt Island and Manhattan.
It’s a quick and easy way to get around, and it offers stunning views of the city skyline. Best of all, kids ride for free! So if you’re looking for a fun and educational activity to do with your kids in NYC, be sure to check out Roosevelt Island and the Tram.
#25. South Street Seaport Museum
For a fun and educational day out with the kids, be sure to visit the South Street Seaport Museum. Located in the heart of New York City’s historic seaport district, the museum offers a unique insight into the city’s maritime past.
Visitors can explore restored 19th-century ships, see exhibitions on the city’s waterfront history, and take part in hands-on activities such as rope-making and shipbuilding.
There’s also a charming carousel and playground for younger children. With so much to see and do, the South Street Seaport Museum is a great place to spend a day with the family.
#26. SPYSCAPE
SPYSCAPE is a must-do for any family visiting NYC. Located in midtown, this interactive museum is designed to teach kids (and adults!) about the world of espionage.
There are dozens of interactive exhibits, including a chance to crack a safe, decode messages, and test your surveillance skills. You can also purchase souvenirs and spy-themed gifts at the museum shop.
And if you’re looking for something truly unique, consider booking a private Spy Mission experience. Led by former CIA operatives, this 90-minute tour will take you on a thrilling journey through the city as you attempt to solve a series of clues and puzzles.
It’s the perfect way to add some excitement to your trip to NYC!
#27. Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids. Not only is it FREE, but it also provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline.
The ferry ride takes about 25 minutes each way, and there is plenty to keep kids entertained on board, including a food court, gift shop, and an observation deck.
Once you arrive on Staten Island, there are numerous parks and playgrounds to explore, as well as the Staten Island Zoo and the Staten Island Museum.
With so much to see and do, the Staten Island Ferry is a great way to spend a day with your family.
#28. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
A visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is a must for any family visiting New York City. The ferry ride to the islands offers stunning views of the city skyline, and the statue itself is an iconic symbol of freedom.
Once on Liberty Island, be sure to explore the visitor center, which contains exhibits on the history of the statue and its construction. For an even better view, take the stairs to the crown of the statue, where you can see all of Manhattan and beyond.
From Liberty Island, it’s a short ferry ride to Ellis Island, where you can learn about the millions of immigrants who arrived in America through this gateway.
The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is a moving tribute to those who sought a better life in America, and it provides an important perspective on our country’s history. A visit to these two sites is sure to be an unforgettable experience for your family.
#29. Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
The Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling is a great place to take your kids if you’re looking for something fun and educational to do in NYC.
The museum is dedicated to celebrating the cultures of the African diaspora, and it offers a variety of interactive exhibits and programs that are designed to engage and inspire young visitors.
One of the highlights of the museum is the ” Walls of color” mural, which was created by internationally-renowned artist Faith Ringgold. The mural tells the story of the Great Migration when millions of African Americans left the South to move North in search of a better life.
Other stand-out features of the museum include the rotating art galleries, which showcase work by both emerging and established artists, and the Reading Room, where kids can listen to stories being read aloud by professional storytellers.
Whether you’re looking for a moment of history or a chance to explore your creativity, the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling is sure to be a hit with your kids.
#30. The New Victory Theater
For a truly unique theater experience, visit the New Victory Theater in NYC. This intimate venue offers something for everyone, with a wide variety of shows ranging from musicals and puppet shows to acrobatics and circus arts.
The theater is also home to an impressive collection of historical objects and documents, making it a great place to learn about the history of theater.
Best of all, the New Victory Theater offers a wide range of ticket prices, making it affordable for families. Whether you’re looking for an exciting afternoon activity or a fun evening out, the New Victory Theater is sure to please.
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