New York · United States · Things to do
5 things to do in New York with kids
The five best things to do in New York with kids are running around Central Park, seeing Times Square lit up after dark, walking the Brooklyn Bridge, taking the ferry past the Statue of Liberty, and going up a skyscraper at sunset. All five are on the subway network, and most work in a half day, so they fit around naps and jet lag.
What to do, in order
- 1
Run around Central Park
Central Park is the place to burn energy between sights. Children can sail toy boats at the Conservatory Water, climb on rocks and playgrounds, and ride the carousel. Rowboats are available from the boathouse in warmer months. The southern end near the zoo is the busiest part, while the Ramble and the lawns farther north are quieter. Bring a picnic from a deli or a food cart. A loop with stops at two playgrounds can fill a whole morning without a single ticket.
- 2
See Times Square light up
Times Square is loud, crowded and best treated as a quick visit. Go after dark, when the screens are at full brightness, and expect to be in and out in under an hour. Hold young children's hands, since the crowds are thick and the sidewalks narrow. The theatres around it run family shows, and the big toy and candy stores nearby give children somewhere to wander. For a quieter evening, the pedestrian plazas allow sitting down and watching the lights.
- 3
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge has a raised walkway above the traffic, with skyline views most of the way. Walk from Brooklyn toward Manhattan so the city is in front of you, and start in the morning or at dusk to avoid the midday crowd and heat. The walkway is shared with cyclists, so keep to the pedestrian side and hold hands with younger children. Allow about an hour. In Brooklyn, the waterfront park beneath the bridge is good for a playground stop and ice cream.
- 4
Ferry past the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are reached by a ferry from Battery Park, with tickets sold in advance and often selling out in summer. If you only want the view, the free Staten Island ferry passes close to the statue and gives a skyline photo of Lower Manhattan, with a return trip taking an hour or so. Ride on the outside deck, and sit on the right side when heading out. Pair either with a visit to the nearby waterfront playgrounds.
- 5
Go up a skyscraper at sunset
New York has several observation decks, including the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, One World Observatory and Summit One Vanderbilt. Choose one and book a timed ticket for the hour before sunset, so you see the city turn gold and then light up. Weekday slots are less crowded. Children usually enjoy the glass floors and the speed of the lifts. Avoid the hottest part of summer afternoons, and check the weather first, since low cloud cuts the view.
Plan it
- Best time
- April to June and September to October are the most comfortable. July and August are hot and humid. December is festive but cold and very busy.
- How long
- Four to five days covers these five and a museum or two. Three days works if you keep to Manhattan and skip the ferry.
- Getting around
- The subway reaches all of these. Tap in with a contactless card or phone, and small children ride free. Walking is the best way to see neighbourhoods; use a stroller on avenues but note that many stations lack lifts.
Good to know
- Book timed tickets for observation decks and the Statue of Liberty ferry before you leave home.
- Pack snacks. Food carts and delis are cheap and fast, and avoid sit-down lines.
- Many stations have stairs only. Pack light or use a compact stroller.
Frequently asked
Is New York good for kids? +
Yes. It has big parks, museums with children's programmes, playgrounds and easy transit. The main challenges are crowds, noise and long walking days, so plan one big thing per half day and leave time for the park.
How many days do you need in New York with kids? +
Four to five days is comfortable for a first trip. That covers the five sights here, a museum day and a slow morning. Three days works for a short stay if you stay in Manhattan.
What is the best time of year to visit New York with children? +
Late spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and parks are at their best. December is atmospheric with lights and skating rinks but cold and crowded. Midsummer can be very hot.
Is the Staten Island ferry worth it? +
Yes, if you want a view of the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline without paying. It runs all day and takes about twenty-five minutes each way. You return on the same boat.
