Traveling to New York is a big event for many families, and there is sadly no way to take in all of the features of the city in one visit. New York City is filled with things for families to experience and explore, so going in with a good game plan is probably the best way to ensure you see as much as possible. With a good idea of what you will be doing, you should find yourself less stressed and more prepared.
New York is full of famous landmarks and sightseeing destinations. Visit the Empire State Building, the Flatiron Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge to get your architecture fix, and then take a cruise to see the Statue of Liberty. If you feel it appropriate for your children, it may be a good idea to stop by Ground Zero and talk about the events that occurred there. Do not forget to swing by Times Square and check out the lights and shopping.
Broadway is home to many colorful and engaging musicals. Though plays come and go each year, some shows have experienced multiseason runs and can be counted on to delight your kids. With new shows opening every season, it may be best to check out some Broadway publications or get recommendations from a friend before you purchase tickets, which can be quite expensive for some of the most popular shows.
If the weather is nice and you need a simple activity to burn off some of your kid's extra energy, hit Central Park. The park is massive, covering 8,000 acres of New York City. There are trails to explore, places to sit and rest, and famous statues scattered about the park, as well as a fair share of musicians and other performers. Central Park is an excellent place to step away from the bustle of the city and take a breather while your kids run around.
New York has a wide range of museums and it is almost certain that one of them will have an exhibit your kids find interesting. Stop by the Metropolitan Museum of Art to expose your kids to some of the world's greatest artists, or drop by the Museum of Modern Art for lessons in contemporary work. You can also try the American Museum of Natural History if you want to explore dinosaurs, the human body, and space.
