New York City is a whirlwind of energy. Taxis honk, people hustle, and the pace can feel a mile-a-minute. It’s enough to make anyone wonder, “Is NYC good for kids?”
Sure, it is! Imagine your child’s excitement as they watch dazzling Broadway shows, see the towering dinosaurs at the American Museum of Natural History, or take a delicious cupcake tour in NYC. The constant buzz becomes an exciting backdrop for endless exploration.
Let’s go on a little trip to explore what to do and where to go in NYC with kids.
1. The American Museum of Natural History
You don’t have to be Ross Geller from FRIENDS to dig dinosaurs. If these prehistoric giants are your thing, then forget stuffy exhibits where whispers are the only sound and lock in on the Dinosaur Halls at the American Museum of Natural History.
With its towering dinosaur skeletons and immersive space exhibits, it’s a guaranteed hit with curious minds. You could also choose to blast off on a journey through the cosmos and walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies at the Butterfly Conservatory.
2. Central Park
When you hear that this park is spread over 800 acres, you know you have enough chill spots for picnics, photo ops, and so much more. The stunning NYC skyline of skyscrapers sure makes for great pictures.
Your kids can also say hello to the sea lions, penguins, and snow leopards at the Central Park Zoo or go on slides at the playground. If you want to enjoy some arm work with the kids, try boating on the Lake. Rent a rowboat and enjoy the serene beauty of the park.
3. Broadway Shows
No NYC trip is complete without a dose of that stage magic on Broadway. It’s a real flex for your kids to say they have seen a Broadway show.
You can catch a family-friendly show like The Lion King, where you can get absorbed in the enthralling world of Simba. Or you can experience the magical adventure of Aladdin while staying dazzled by the costumes, sets, and incredible singing.
It’s not yet time to let it go until you’re frozen in time with Elsa and Anna in their stunning theatrical production. There are lots of show options that you can take your kids to on Broadway.
4. Sea, Air & Space Museum
Who needs years of training as a marine to touch their aircraft when the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is open for exploration?
At this museum, your kids can marvel at the impressive collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and submarines. This includes the Cold War-era submarine and the creations at the Space Shuttle Pavilion.
5. Dylan’s Candy Bar
Believe it, you don’t want to be that parent who drags your kid through stretches of fun activities and forgets the secret sauce – the sugar rush. Besides, what is New York without the little eats? Make plans to swing by Dylan’s Candy Bar.
Don’t worry—it just has the word ‘bar’ in it because the walls are lined with every color and flavor of candy imaginable. There’s no alcohol for the kids; it’s a promise. They have everything from nostalgic childhood favorites to international candies you’ve never seen before. It might not be the healthiest stop on your NYC adventure, but it’s fun.
