Rockefeller Center offers a variety of activities for children of all ages. The famous ice-skating rink is a good start and is open from October to April. You can make appointments for lessons if you or your kids have never skated before. If skating isn't your thing, the center offers several behind-the-scenes tours. The NBC Studios tour allows kids a chance to see how their favorite TV shows are made, with a glimpse of costumes and cue cards. Children can even sit at the news desk and read a weather report as if they are one of the network's top personalities. Tours of Radio City Music Hall offer a similar behind-the-scenes look and an opportunity to meet the famous Rockettes. Once you've finished your tours, journey to the Top of the Rock, an observation deck 70 floors up, for an unbelievable view of the city that's sure to please both the young and young at heart.
This gigantic toy store, located on Fifth Avenue at 58th Street, is a must-see for children. Remember the scene in the movie "Big" during which Tom Hanks stomps out a favorite tune on an oversized floor piano? Your children can re-enact that scene and more during their visit. The store offers floor after floor of unique toys and creations from life-sized stuffed animals to trains and dolls. Visit the store's Muppet Whatnot Workshop, where your children can design their own Muppets. From hair to eyes to clothing, your child's Muppet will be her own creation from start to finish.
This 843-acre park in the middle of the city is a child's paradise. Grab a famous NYC hot dog and drink from a nearby vendor, and let your children run and play for the afternoon. After they've explored the park's scenery, help them feed the ducks or take a family carriage ride through the park. Your children will get a kick out of the many characters and performers, from singing groups to the lady dressed up as the Statue of Liberty, who use the park as their stage. The park also features the Tisch Children's Zoo, where your youngsters can meet 130 different species from all areas of the world.
In addition to a panoramic view of the city from 86 floors up, the Empire State Building houses the children-pleasing New York Skyride, a virtual reality helicopter tour of the city. From the comfort of a movie theater, you and your family will enjoy an unforgettable sky tour of the city's most famous landmarks. On your way through the lobby, don't miss the King Kong movie memorabilia. Your kids will get to relive some movie magic from the building the famous gorilla tried to destroy.
