Things to Do With Kids in New York City: Must-Visit Spots

There’s no place like the Big Apple for creating family memories and enjoying kid-friendly activities. In New York City, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do that the entire family can enjoy. From cultural experiences to educational adventures and just plain fun, the opportunities are practically endless. Every neighborhood offers new discoveries — you might find a world-famous museum on one block and a hidden playground on the next. With the subway connecting all five boroughs, you can easily explore everything from downtown Manhattan's landmarks to Brooklyn's family-friendly parks.

Whether you’re a local or planning a visit, we've gathered recommendations from our community of parents to help you discover the best things to do with kids in New York City.

Tips for Navigating NYC with Kids

While there are many kid-friendly things to do in New York City, we know the busy sidewalks and streets can feel overwhelming with kids. Don't worry – we've got the insider tips you need to have an amazing time exploring the city's famous landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods.

Prepare for the Weather

New York City enjoys four distinct seasons — part of what makes it so special! From hot, sunny summers to snowy winters, here's how to stay comfortable year-round:

• Bring backpacks: We recommend bringing backpacks for the whole family when exploring the city. You’ll likely be out all day, and they're perfect for storing layers as temperatures change. 
• Get good walking shoes: In winter, everyone who's walking needs boots with solid grips — NYC sidewalks can get icy!
• Time your transit wisely: During extreme weather (whether it's a snowy day or a summer scorcher), plan activities and routes to minimize long walks outdoors.
• Buy handheld fans: The subway can be brutal during the summer, especially during rush hour. Invest in a few hand-held fans to keep everyone cool and dry.

Don’t let weather planning discourage you! Winter in NYC is truly magical (just imagine ice skating in Rockefeller Plaza!) and summer transforms the public parks into lively gathering spots.

Transportation Recommendations for Non-Locals

You’ll find several great options for navigating the city with kids. Here’s what we recommend: Skip the car rental — it’s both inefficient and expensive. With excellent public transit options available, here are the three best ways to explore:

• The subway: The subway system connects you to every corner of the city quickly and affordably. Kids usually enjoy the ride, and there's a great bonus: up to three children under 44 inches tall ride free with a paying adult.
• Ubers/Lyfts: Rideshare services are everywhere in NYC. You’re typically just a few blocks away from an available driver, and you can request vehicles with car seats when needed.
• Taxis: It wouldn’t be a classic NYC trip without riding in a yellow taxi! Flag one down on the street, or if the weather’s bad, ask your hotel to call one for you.

Stroller-friendly tip: Choose a lightweight, slim, foldable model. You'll appreciate this when navigating crowded subway cars and station stairs.

Lodging Recommendations for Non-Locals

New York offers wonderful family-friendly accommodation options across its diverse neighborhoods. From the elegant Upper East Side to bustling Midtown West, to hotels along the Hudson River, you'll find plenty of welcoming spots. Here are some family favorites:

• The Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Midtown Manhattan/Penn Station: You can’t beat this location in terms of convenience. Located at Penn Station, you can easily reach any part of the city. The hotel features spacious suites with sofa beds and includes breakfast.
• Hotel Beacon: Located on the Upper West Side, this hotel is in one of the safest neighborhoods in NYC. It offers 2-bedroom suites with kitchens, perfect for family meals (and saving a little money on dining out). 
• Loews Regency New York: Situated on the Upper East Side, this hotel is steps away from Central Park, Museum Mile, and Madison Avenue. The Loews Loves Family program includes child-friendly amenities like bed rails, baby-proofing supplies, and special kids' menus.

Looking for more space? Consider a rental property in Brooklyn's charming brownstones or nearby New Jersey towns like Hoboken and Weehawken — just a 30-minute train ride from the city. Be sure to check current short-term rental regulations, as they frequently change.

The Best Things to Do in New York City with Kids

There’s nothing like the magic of NYC, where excitement awaits around every corner. For those wondering what to do in New York City with kids, the options are endless. Theater kids can experience a real Broadway show, creative kiddos can find inspiration at the Metropolitan Museum, and young fashionistas can explore NYC’s famous Fifth Avenue. We've created an interactive map of family-friendly attractions based on real experiences from our community. These recommendations come directly from families who have enjoyed these activities with their own children. You can:

• Explore the map to find activities in your area
• Read authentic reviews from other families
• Share your own favorite spots and experiences

Want to discover more? We're always adding new family activities:

• Set your location to find nearby options
• Browse our family event calendar

Check our curated lists, including:

• Educational activities and kid-friendly libraries
• Teen and tween activities
• Free family-friendly activities

Start exploring our growing collection of family activities in New York City. Your next memorable adventure could be just around the corner!