Some of New York’s sights and attractions are designed specifically with kids in mind, but many others I’ve discussed are terrific for kids as well as adults.
Probably the best place of all to entertain the kids is in Central Park, which has kid-friendly diversions galore, including a zoo, a merry-go-round, many playgrounds and a marionette theater.
Museums
In addition to the museums specifically for kids detailed in our listings, consider the following, discussed elsewhere in this guide: The American Museum of Natural History, whose dinosaur displays are guaranteed to wow both you and the kids; the New York City Fire Museum, in a real firehouse; the Museum of the Moving Image, where you and the kids can learn how movies are actually made (and play vintage video games); the New York Transit Museum, where kids can explore vintage subway cars and other hands-on exhibits; the South Street Seaport & Museum, which little ones will love for its theme-park-like atmosphere and old boats bobbing in the harbor; and, just for them, the Brooklyn Children’s Museum and The Children's Museum of Manhattan.
Other Kid-Friendly Diversions
Shopping -- Everybody loves to shop in New York—even kids. Don’t forget to take them to Books of Wonder; and Dylan’s Candy Bar, for a real Willy Wonka experience.
Sky-High Views -- Kids of all ages can’t help but turn dizzy with delight at views from atop the Empire State Building, The Top of the Rock, or One World Observatory.
Special Events -- Children’s eyes grow wide at the yearlong march of parades (especially Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade), circuses (Big Apple and Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey), and holiday shows (the Rockettes’ Christmas performances).
Zoos & Aquariums -- Bigger kids will love the legendary Bronx Zoo, while the Central Park Zoo, with its Tisch Children’s Zoo, is particularly suitable for younger kids. At the New York Aquarium at Coney Island, kids can touch starfish and sea urchins and watch bottle-nosed dolphins and California sea lions stunt-swim in the outdoor aqua theater. Brooklyn’s Prospect Park also boasts a wonderful little zoo.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.