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20 Best Things to do in NYC with Kids

Not sure what to do with kids in NYC? If so then this next-level massive guide to the best things to do in NYC with kids is totally for you.

Trust me on this. I grew up in the city, have lived there for 30+ years, and even nannyed there too.

Therefore, I know exactly what kids do and do not what to do when visiting the Big Apple. So, step away from the guidebook and experience NYC with kids like a real local.

Just use this easy-to-follow guide to the best things to do in NYC with kids and you can quickly and easily experience the city that never sleeps like a local.

Heck, there’s even a free map at the bottom to help you seemleslly plan the perfect NYC itinerary for you and your family now.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Best Hotels in NYC

Not sure where to stay in NYC when enjoying the best things to do in NYC with kids?

If so then this section is for you. It not only features some of the best hotels in the city but offers a variety of options to suit your needs no matter what your budget is.

  • Pod 39 (budget) – Kids will love the novelty of staying in a contemporary pod hotel like Pod 39. Parents will love the fact that this place is friendly on the wallet and that rooms sit inside a historic home in Murray Hill. Other than that, families will enjoy modern rooms with TVs, plush beds, etc.
  • Lotte New York Palace (luxury) – Channel your inner Eloise and book a room at one of the best hotels in NYC. See, Lotte New York Palace is a stunning, 4.5-star hotel that is housed inside a historic 19th-century mansion near St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It also features exquisite suites that include WiFi, flatscreen TVs, designer toiletries, and access to an on-site spa/French bakery.

Best Things to do in NYC with Kids – Manhattan

1. Central Park

People hanging out on Sheep's Meadow in Central Park.

Now, no traveler to NYC should skip this picturesque park that doubles as one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.

Because regardless of age, Central Park appeals to all and enchants kids with its green spaces, statues, and stunning views of Manhattan.

Therefore, Central Park is easily one of the top things to do in NYC with kids for every season.

After all, summer calls for picnics and frolicking around the lake.

Meanwhile, shoulder season is ideal for a cycle around the park’s monuments and enjoying some epic fall foliage.

In fact, Central Park Bike Rentals have a full fleet of hybrid, mountain, and tandem bikes for you and your family to enjoy. Plus, baby seats are available too.

And come wintertime, skating at the Wollman Rink is one of the best things to do at Christmas in NYC!

Besides, the park’s iconic carousel is open all year round and will delight younger kids of every variety.

Additionally, Central Park can be a cheap or even free day (or half-day out) if you’re looking for awesome free things to do in NYC on a budget.

Plus, the likes of Bethesda Terrace and Belvedere Castle are awesome backdrops for family photo ops too.

Address: Central Park

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 am to 1:00 am.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Columbus Circle and walk from there.

2. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Statue fo Liberty in the evening.

When prepping your kids for their first trip to the Big Apple, there’s a good chance that Lady Liberty is going to rank high on their agenda.

So, snagging some sweet views of the State of Liberty is one of the essential activities when traveling to NYC with kids.

Now, if you have a full day to spare then you can visit Liberty Island in tandem with Ellis Island.

FYI, Ellis Island is the former immigration station, with a hub for doing a spot of research into your own family’s immigration history.

And this Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry package makes for a perfect day trip from the Battery, complete with round trip travel and museum admission.

Although, if you’re short on time then this 1-Hour Cruise Around the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island might be a better fit.

In fact, with this one, you’ll stay on the boat the entire time. But, you’ll get an eyeful of the statue and other NYC icons too.

However, Battery Park offers rad views of the statue if you have no time for either boat ride or you can always take the Staten Island Ferry for free if you’re on a tight budget.

Address: 22 Battery Place

Hours: Cruises depart daily every hour, on the hour from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: $23.74

How to Get There: Take the 4/5 train to Bowling Green and walk from there.

3. Empire State Building

View of the Empire State Building.

Another emblem of NYC, the Empire State Building has loomed over the city since 1931.

And because every kid has seen photos of this NYC icon, visiting this skyscraper is easily one of the coolest things to do in NYC as a family.

So, if you want to take a peek at this tower from the ground then Bryant Park and various spots along Fifth Avenue all provide some of the best perspectives.

However, you can also visit the observatory for stunning panoramas across the city. Because getting an aerial view of the city is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.

So, book Empire State Building Tickets & Skip-the-Line access and you can visit the 86th floor. From there, you will see the likes of Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty.

Plus, you can even upgrade your visit to include a trip to the 102nd level too Although, the 86th floor more than has you covered.

And if you want a view of the Empire State Building then visit the Top of the Rock observation deck at Rockefeller Center.

Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, except on Friday/Saturday/Sunday when they open at 9:00 am.

Price: Tickets start at $44.00 per adult.

How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6 train to 33rd street and walk from there.

4. American Museum of Natural History

Stone exterior of the Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side. with a horse statue out front.

Traveling to NYC with kids that are crazy about dinosaurs and space? If so then you must take them to the American Museum of Natural History.

Touted as the most interactive natural history museum in the world, this place is perfect for inquisitive young minds eager to learn more about the larger world around them.

Because in a nutshell, these 45 halls are filled with 33 million relics, including skeletons of a Tyrannosaurus rex and a mammoth too.

In fact, one floor is entirely devoted to dinosaurs and all the bones that they’ve left behind.

Elsewhere, you’ll find collections relating to forests, marine biology, planetary sciences, and Indigenous cultures.

Plus, all exhibitions are designed to specifically to appeal to kids and adults alike.

And, added bonus? Your American Museum of Natural History ticket will provide you with entry to all permanent displays.

But, you have the option to upgrade in case one of the museum’s special exhibitions catches your eye.

Address: 200 Central Park West, New York, NY 10024-5102

Hours: Currently open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Price: Tickets are $28 for adults, $22.50 for seniors (60+) and students with a valid ID, and $16.50 for children between 3 and 12,

How to Get There: Take the B (weekdays only)/C train to 81st Street station and walk to the museum there. You can also take the 1 train to Broadway and West 79th Street and walk from there.

5. National Museum of Mathematics

Another nifty museum geared specifically for kids, the National Museum of Mathematics is geared towards kids aged fourth through eighth grade.

Now, mention this to your arithma-phobic kids and you might face eye rolls, spark protests, and more than one temper tantrum.

However, MoMath does an excellent job of exploring the important role that math plays in our everyday lives. So, it opens up the subject to all levels of ability and interest.

As a result, displays analyze the contribution of math to fields like design, arts, sports, and movement – with a special emphasis on patterns.

All exhibits are also super immersive and utterly engaging, even for the most math-shy kids out there.

For example, there’s a square-wheeled tricycle and a basketball throw space to experiment with. Plus, you’ll find painting and photography activities too.

So, MoMath is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids on a rainy day since there are a wealth of wonderfully interactive exhibits here for everyone to enjoy.

Address: 11 E 26th St, New York, NY 10010, United States

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are between $20.00 and $25.00 per person.

How to Get There: Take the N/Q train to 28th Street station and walk from there.

6. New York Public Library

Fabulous interior of the New York Public Library during your 2 days in NYC.

Do you come from a family of bookworms? If so then the New York Public Library is the perfect addition to your NYC with kids itinerary.

Officially the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, this glorious Beaux-Arts building on Fifth Avenue is a feast for the eyes.

Plus, you’re allowed to pop inside – for free– and roam the stunning halls and exquisite reading rooms.

Youngsters will also be in awe of the scale and design of this place since it feels like something straight out of Hogwarts.

From time to time, there are even fun readings and unique events for kids. But, as pre-registration is usually required, you should scout out what’s on before you show up.

Plus, before you go, you can pose for pics with the marble lions, Patience, and Fortitude.

And while you won’t be able to borrow books unless you’re a resident of New York, you can peruse the shelves and seek inspiration for your next reads.

Address: 476 5th Ave, New York, NY 10018

Hours: Open Monday and Thursday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the B/D/F/M train to Bryant Park and 42nd Street station and walk from there.

7. Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex

View of Chelsea Piers and the NYC skyline with the world trade center in the background as you enjoy the best things to do in NYC with kids.

If you want to ensure a soundless night, whisk your clan away for a couple of hours to Chelsea Piers.

After all, this vast network of piers sits just west of Midtown Manhattan and is home to the Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex.

And, among their many offerings, you will find ice skating classes, rock climbing, sailing, and so much more.

Because essentially, the complex operates a mix of recurrent and drop-in events.

So, even if you’re planning a quick visit, you can still check out the schedule and see if there’s something going on that your kids would enjoy as you explore all the best things to do in NYC with kids.

Plus, there’s even a bowling alley where you can enjoy some light-hearted family competition.

And your littlest kids will lovethe Toddler Gym since it is an exciting and safe place for children to socialize and play.

Seriously, after an hour or two at Chelsea Piers, everyone in the family will be ready for a solid eight-hour nap!

Address: 59 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY 10011

Hours: Varies by the facility.

Price: Varies by the facility.

How to Get There: Take the M23 bus across town to the stop at 12th Avenue and West 23rd Street and walk from there.

8. Staten Island Ferry

View of the Manhattan skyline from the Staten island Ferry

Shuttling close to 70,000 passengers to and from Staten Island every single day, the Staten Island Ferry is a vital transportation hub that links Manhattan with the namesake island.

Incredibly, the service remains entirely free for both residents and tourists alike. Therefore, riding the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids on a budget.

And, the scenery across the harbor is outstanding since you can enjoy a stunning view of the Manhattan skyline.

Also, no ticket is needed, so it’s a hassle-free way to see the city and the Statue of Liberty.

Now, each journey takes approximately 25 minutes. Therefore, if you stay on the vessel, you can be back in Manhattan in about an hour.

However, speaking as a local – avoid the ferry at peak commuter times. Yeah, the last thing you want to do is turn your leisurely cruise into a sardine sandwich.

Anyway, the schedule is clearly marked in yellow so you know when not to travel.

Address: Staten Island Ferry Terminal, New York, NY 10004

Hours: Ferries depart every 15 to 20 minutes 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the 4 or 5 train to Bowling Green and then walk to the ferry terminal in Battery Park.

9. New York City Fire Museum

I dare you to find me a child who doesn’t think firefighters are the coolest type of human on earth and who doesn’t harbor not-so-secret ambitions of becoming one.

And this epic museum is located in Soho and sits inside a former firehouse. Therefore, two floors are bursting with super cool things for kids to explore including old fire trucks, fire apparatus, tools, and uniforms.

Essentially, the exhibits trace the development of firefighting from the early bucket brigades to the present day.

Plus, the museum features a 9/11 memorial in honor of the firefighters who lost their lives during the attack.

The layout is also masterfully crafted to engage kids with a self-guided audio tour complementing the signage, easily making this one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.

Furthermore, admission is extremely reasonably priced considering you can easily spend a couple of hours here.

Address: 278 Spring St, New York, NY 10013, United States

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for kids.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2 to Houston Street or the A/E train to Spring Street and walk from there.

10. Roosevelt Island Tram

View of the tram to Roosevelt Island riding through the air. One of the non-touristy things to do in NYC.

Roosevelt Island floats between Manhattan and Queens on the East River. And with a respectable length of around 2 miles, it’s perfectly feasible to spend a half day exploring the highlights as you enjoy NYC with kids.

And these attractions include the lighthouse to the north and Southpoint Park with its stellar views of Manhattan and the river.

Sure there’s not a ton to do, but it’s a neat spot to take the kids for a wander.

Besides, getting to the island is where the fun really begins!

Because as you depart from 59th Street and Second Avenue, the aerial Roosevelt Island Tram offers one of the best views of NYC as it soars over the river.

Plus, you can cover the cost of your ride with your MetroCard. This, FYI, is the only way to pay the fare these days.

And, up to three small children (capped at a height of 44-inches) can travel for free when accompanied by one fare-paying adult.

So, this is one of the most budget-friendly activities in NYC with kids.

Address: E 59th St & 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10022

Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 am to 2:00 am and Friday and Saturday from 6:00 am to 3:30 am.

Price: Swipe of your MetroCard.

How to Get There: Take the N/R/W train to 59th street and Lexington station and walk to the tram from there.

11. Children’s Museum of Manhattan

The Children’s Museum of Manhattan is one final attraction of its kind in Manhattan worthy of a mention.

And, as with MoMath, this one is just for kids.

See, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan marries educational pursuits with play.

And exhibitions are spread over five floors where kids are encouraged to role-play, solve problems, create, and connect with other cultures from around the world.

Plus, they’ll need to work as a team to complete tasks – thereby enhancing their communication skills and confidence.

On occasion, temporary exhibits have nodded to politics and will ease younger minds into the importance of voting.

Plus, all zones are clearly defined according to age with plenty of restrooms, water fountains, and sanitization stations for the comfort of children and their caregivers.

Admission is also timed and it’s highly recommended that you pre-book your tickets for this museum.

Address: 212 W 83rd St, New York, NY 10024

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 9:30 am to 4:45 pm.

Price: Tickets for adults and children are $15.00 each while seniors/disabled visitors are $12.00 and infants under one are free.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to 79th Street station and walk to the museum from there.

12. Governors Island

Aerial view of Governors Island and one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.

Yup, just one more island to round out your time spent exploring Manhattan, NYC with kids.

Now, once a military base, Governors Island sits just off the top of Lower Manhattan and is brimming over with incredible green spaces and super cool historic forts.

Plus, it’s packed with kid-friendly activities that are fun and free.

For example, Slide Hill Playground has a bunch of slides, one of which reigns supreme as the single longest slide in NYC!

Clocking in at an amazing 57 feet, this slide will get the adrenaline pumping in the youngest of your brood.

Elsewhere, Downtown Boathouse at Pier 101 provides free use of kayaks on Saturdays throughout the summer.

And, the community boulder lets kids connect with their inner cheeky monkey and Hammock Grove is epic on a hot afternoon.

Furthermore, there’s a good spread of places to eat on the island. Or, you can pack a picnic and enjoy the great outdoors while enjoying NYC with kids

Plus, you can even reach Governors Island easily from Brooklyn via ferry too.

Address: Governors Island, New York

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm between May 23 and September 27.

How to Get There: Governors Island is only accessible by ferry, Therefore, take lines 2/3 or 4/5 to Borough Hall station and walk to the Battery Maritime Building from there, which is where the ferry departs from in Manhattan.

Price: The ferry ride costs $2.00 round trip.

Best Things to do in NYC with Kids – Brooklyn

13. Prospect Park and Brooklyn Botanic Garden

View of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and one of the tops things to do in NYC with kids.

Not to be outdone by its neighboring borough, Prospect Park is Brooklyn’s answer to Central Park.

So, this is where you’ll find the lush Brooklyn Botanic Garden with its Topical Pavilion, Bluebell Wood, Japanese Hill, and Children’s Garden.

And in addition to roaming the floral displays, there are usually a couple of kid-friendly talks and events taking place that are perfect for families.

Plus, exhibits change seasonally with the holidays bringing special presentations, such as the Winter Spectacular.

So, depending on the scope of your NYC with kids itinerary, you might want to pick up a New York Go City Explorer Pass to help save you some cold hard cash.

After all, this epic pass covers a bunch of museums, tours, and experiences and works out to be much cheaper than buying individual tickets.

And, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the attractions covered as part of this sweet, sweet deal.

Then, over in the western part of Prospect Park, you’ll find the zoo, a sea lion pool, a carousel, and a lake too!

And, yes, there are tons of trails that will help you weave your way through the ravine and meadows.

Address: 900 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, New York, 11238

Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (March through October). The gardens close at 4:30 pm instead of 6:00 pm in November and are open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm in December and February.

Price: Free

How to Get There: Take the 2 or 3 train to Eastern Parkway Brooklyn Museum station and walk to the garden from there.

14. Coney Island

Wonder wheel at Coney Island.

See, Coney Island is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids and teenagers alike.

After all, what kid can resist beaches, amusement park rides, an aquarium, a seaside playground, and ice cream all in one magical place?

And, plus, during the summer season, it’s possible to swim off the beaches of Coney Island when lifeguards are on duty.

So, add swim gear to your NYC packing list when visiting New York City with kids.

And if you need to inject some adrenaline into your trip then head to Luna Park, aka the largest amusement park in New York City!

In fact, this seaside funfair has rides for all ages. FYI, Luna Park’s hours change to reflect the season. Therefore, you need to check their current hours of operation before you visit.

Furthermore, Coney Island is super close to the New York Aquarium. So, you could easily visit both places as you enjoy the best things to do in New York City with kids.

And open year-round, the aquarium is home to striped pajama squid, zebra sharks, penguins, and more.

Plus, admission to this bad boy of the Big Apple is included with the NYC Sightseeing FLEX Pass. #justsayin’

Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, United States

Hours: Open Friday through Monday from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm and Wednesday/Thursday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Price: Wristbands start at $45.00 each.

How to Get There: Take the N train to Coney Island and walk from there.

15. New York Transit Museum

Occupying the platforms of a historic subway, station the New York Transit Museum is one of the most unusual things to do in NYC with kids.

After all, kids love the feeling of getting off the well-trodden path. And where better than a decommissioned station?

Now, the exhibitions here include everything from vintage subway cars to historic buses to vintage trolleys.

Additionally, you’ll also enjoy ephemera, photography, and objects that help piece together the history of the subway system in NYC.

Essentially, the museum aims to share the stories of the people who made the subway system possible and those who use it.

Plus, there’s nothing like a gander at the platform etiquette signage archive to evoke a bit of a laugh within the family.

Just be aware that advance tickets are mandatory. And you can snap them up on the museum website before you go.

Quick FYI: access is only available via a staircase so you’ll need to feel comfortable carrying your stroller down, if applicable.

Address: 99 Schermerhorn St Brooklyn, New York, 11201

Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturday/Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for children (2-17) and seniors (62+), and free on Wednesdays.

How to Get There: If you’re coming here from Manhattan, take the 4 or 5 train to Borough Hall station and then walk to the museum from there.

16. Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Alright, seeing as you already checked out several children-friendly museums in Manhattan, let’s level it up with some cool kid-friendly museums in Brooklyn.

And the Brooklyn Children’s Museum was the first of its kind. Founded in 1899, the cultural institution was built primarily for kids and their families.

Therefore, exhibits and programs revolve around the visual arts, music, performances, natural sciences, and cultures around the world.

And within the permanent displays, World Brooklyn recreates this iconic borough through several kid-sized stores.

So, kids adopt the role of anything from a baker to a grocer to a designer to a builder and even a shopper too!

Meanwhile, Neighborhood Nature is devoted to exploring the flora and fauna of the natural world.

Also, don’t forget Totally Tots. it’s a full sensory area where toddlers can awaken their imaginations.

Plus, there are several temporary exhibits on offer that include themed mini-golf pop-ups, art installations, skate rinks, and more.

Therefore, in a nutshell, this is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids who need to develop a strong sense of confidence.

Address: 145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213, United States

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, except on Mondays when they are closed.

Price: General admission starts at $13.00 for kids and adults.

How to Get There: Take the 3 train to Kingston Avenue station and walk from there.

Best Things to do in NYC with Kids – Queens

17. The New York Hall of Science

View of the Unisphere at Flushing Meadow Corona Park, a place to add to your New York City bucket list.

Now, regardless of whether or not you’re raising a future scientist, engineer, or mathematician – bring them to the New York Hall of Science.

Because, the mission behind NYSCI is to inspire all kids to take an interest in STEM.

And throughout your visit, you will utilize all five senses as you create, dream, test, design, and play your way through one of the best things to do in NYC with kids.

In fact, exhibits and workshops cover energy sources, architecture, and all manner of creative process that are spread across woodworking, 3D printing, and stop-motion animation.

Plus, all activites are carefully curated to inspire kids, adults, and teens alike. Heck, there’s even a Science Playground for pre-schoolers as well as an indoor playground too.

So, NYSCI truly is one of the most thought-provoking ways to explore NYC with kids.

It’s also located in Flushing Meadows and Corona Park. Therfiore, you can pair your trip to the museum with a stroll through the grounds.

Address: 47-01 111th St, Queens, NY 11368, United States

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Price:: General admission is $16.00 for adults and $13.00 for kids.

How to Get There: Take the 7 train to 111 Street station and walk from there.

18. Museum of the Moving Image

The Museum of the Moving Image is a kooky museum in Astoria, Queens, for movie and digital media buffs.

Essentially, the gallery explores the history and secrets of the movie and television industry.

And popular ongoing displays at MoMi include the Jim Henson Exhibition and Behind the Screen.

The latter is an awesome overview of what goes into making a movie. So, if you’re traveling NYC with kids who are fanatical about the nitty-gritty of the creative and business side of things, they’ll ADORE this place.

However, this place also has a whole host of temporary exhibitions that throw a spotlight on specific series and franchises.

And if you want you can even catch screenings of classic or topical movies at the museum theater.

Therefore, deffo research what’s coming up in advance if you want to catch a flick while in NYC.

Plus, exhibitions and screenings are sometimes themed around the current season, like Halloween or holiday-themed shows for example.

Pro Tip: Stop by on Fridays for FREE admission between 4:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

Address: 36-01 35th Ave, Astoria, NY 11106, United States

Hours: Open Wednesday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Friday from 10:30 am to 8:00 pm, and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:30 am to 6:00 pm.

Price: Tickets cost between $9 and $15 per person.

How to Get There: Take the E, M, or R train to Steinway Street station and walk from there.

Best Things to do in NYC with Kids – The Bronx

19. New York Botanical Garden

Historic pavilion at the New York Botanical Gardens surrounded by a pond with lily pads.

So, we already covered the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. But, the city’s official botanical park is located in the Bronx.

And, naturally, the New York Botanical Garden is one of the best things to do in NYC with kids in summer.

I mean, with its zen vibe, hoards of fluttering butterflies, and educational events, kids are forver and always charmed by this exciting NYC attraction.

However, displays change to reflect the season and it’s also a hot contender when it comes to the best Christmas lights in NYC.

And that’s mainly because the park hosts NYBG Glow; a whimsical winter wonderland of light installations – in addition to their traditional Holiday Train Show.

So, if you do want to experience this spectacle for yourself, you’ll need to pre-book your Holiday Train Show & Glow Tickets.

Besides the exhibits though, the New York Botanical Garden also runs a ton of programs for kids aged four to twelve.

Pro Tip: See what’s currently in bloom by visiting the NYBG website.

Address: 2900 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10458, United States

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, except Mondays when they are closed.

Price: Tickets are $30.00 for adults and $15.00 for kids.

How to Get There: Take a Harlem Line MetroNorth train from Grand Central to the New York Botanical Gardens station.

20. Bronx Zoo

Historic main building in the Bronx Zoo.

The Bronx Zoo is situated right next door to NYBG. And these 265 acres provide habitat for over 6,000 different species with close to 10,000 animals living on-site.

And just some of the creatures you’ll encounter include amur tigers, American bison, gorillas, snowy owls, and red-ruffed lemurs.

However, in addition to marveling at animals and enjroing live feeding sessions, kids will learn about conservation work during their visit.

After all, this institution is the flagship zoo of the Wildlife Conservation Society, which runs three other zoos in addition to the NYC aquarium.

Therefore, the Bronx Zoo is a top-rated animal activity for families when visiting NYC with kids.

And, the attraction is open year-round. In fact, if you visit in winter, you can ogle the Holiday Lights since this event sees giant lanterns in the shape of animals take over the park at night.

FYI, admission to Bronx Zoo is covered with the NYC Sightseeing FLEX Pass. But, children under 2 go for free and everyone can visit for free on Wednesday (but you’ll need a timed admission ticket in advance).

Address: 2300 Southern Blvd, The Bronx, NY 10460, United States

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm with extended hours until 5:30 pm on weekends.

Price: Tickets are between $41.95 and $33.95 for adults and between $31.95 and $23.95 for kids.

How to Get There: Take the 2 train to Pelham Parkway and walk from there.

Map of the Best Things to do in NYC with Kids

Map of the best things to do in NYC with Kids
Click here for the full map.

Additional New York Resources You’ll Love

There you have it! That just about wraps up this guide to the best things to do in NYC with kids.

Tell me, did your top picks for what to do in NYC with kids make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below.

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