Whether it is because of many noises and sounds, or just the sheer size of the city, navigating the streets of New York City with a family can feel like a daunting task. But if you look beyond the hustle and bustle of the busy city, you’ll find a whole host of things that are perfect for families. Most people know that places like Central Park are packed with playgrounds and free things for children to do; snow in winter and splash pads in summer). And there is, of course, the (totally free) Staten Island Ferry, that can be fun to ride with kids. But there are few things that are a little off the tourist track that are still worth visiting.
You could look for one of the longest running broadway shows that does performances just for kids, as well as active things like ice skating, climbing, and swimming. Here are the top five things for families to try in NYC; which will you be trying first?
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
It might seem a little cliche, but a trip to the Statue of Liberty, and then onto the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is something all children, and adults for that matter, should do at least once. There are audio guides for kids that helps, as well as lots of fun photo ops as you head up towards Lady Liberty’s crown.
One World Observatory
Places like the Empire State Building are always a good choice if you want to check out the views of the city. But for kids, it can be a little dull. Which is why the experience at One World Observatory can be much better for children. Kids can get a kick out of going on some of the fastest lits in the world, and it can be fun for them to know that they are on top of the tallest building in the country. There are some HD videos of New York on the 100th floor, so that is worth checking out, as well as the screens that give a bird’s eye view of the streets below.
South Street Seaport Museum
The whirlwind that was Hurricane Sandy caused extensive damage to the South Street Seaport Museum. But the good news is that the newly reopened museum is a great place to stop for children and teens that are interested in ships, boats, and general maritime history. The highlights include being able to explore six historic ships, hands-on things like learning to use a letterpress, and then being able to sail around the New York Harbor in the comfort of an excursion vessel.
Teardrop Park
For something definitely in the quieter parts of town, try the landscape architect designed playpark; Teardrop Park in Battery Park City. There are slides to go down, sand boxes to enjoy, water fountains to run in, and rock coulders to climbs.
Children’s Museum of the Arts
There are many places to see art in NYC, but many aren’t that great for children. So how about the Children’s Museum of the Arts? It has child-centered activities, a lot of hands-on art workshops, as well as bright paintings to see and discover.