For every amazing grownup attraction in New York, you can find an equally fascinating one for kids. Take museums, for instance--adults love the Met and MoMA, and for the younger set, choices range from the Children's Museum of the Arts to the activity-filled Long Island Children's Museum. Of course, some of the most renowned attractions are great for all generations--everyone gets a thrill from Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.
For kids and for grownups, a tour of the harbor is about the best way to see New York sights. Circle Line has 75-minute and two- and three-hour cruises with commentary about the major attractions such as Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. There's also "The Beast," a 30-minute speedboat ride in summer that offers thrills for kids but offers no commentary. Children have to be at least 40 inches tall to ride.
While you're in New York, you have to take the kids shopping--or at least browsing. Begin at the classic FAO Schwarz on Fifth Avenue--the varied toys and huge stuffed animals are amazing, plus the atmosphere is entertaining. Kids can play with toys, chat with live mascots, listen to story time and watch dancers on the giant piano.
Also check out the Toys "R" Us flagship store in Times Square, with giant attractions such as a Barbie dollhouse, a T-Rex and a Lego New York skyline. The kids will love the interactive play and special activities that take place each day.
Another fun choice is The Scholastic Store (locations in New York City and Scarsdale). Scholastic features toys, puzzles, videos and books--plus fun book-related activities.
Be sure to visit one of New York's wonderful zoos. The famous one in Central Park features more than six acres of habitats, and many activities such as guided tours, story time and feedings. Don't miss the Tisch Children's Zoo, where your little ones can touch the animals. One ticket admits you to both locations. The Bronx Zoo is popular, too, with more than 4,000 animals, as well as feedings and fun activities.
You don't have to pay Broadway prices to find entertaining family theater in New York. For $10-$15 a ticket, you can catch classic children's plays at the Manhattan Children's Theatre, enjoy music and dance for $4 a ticket at the Charles Hayden Rooftop Theater at the Brooklyn Children's Museum or take in a puppet show for $6 or $7 at Puppetworks.
Go museum hopping with the kids. Expose them to the fabulous adult museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and walk down the spiraled levels of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum. Then head to kid-specific versions. Try the Children's Museum of the Arts featuring a wide array of hands-on creativity, and the Long Island Children's Museum where kids can hammer, saw, climb and more.
