Traveling to New York City with the entire family is one of the best experiences any adventurous mom can have. From expansive parks that show off the Big Apple’s iconic skyline to zoos and aquariums where you can see animals up close, there is so much to do in the city for you and the little ones. Drafting your itinerary for the ultimate family trip to NYC? Here are six family-friendly spots you shouldn’t miss while you’re there.
1. Central Park
Smack in the heart of Manhattan, Central Park is a must-see not just for families but anyone visiting NYC. There’s so much for families to do in the park, such as go on gondola rides, row boats in the lake, run around Heckscher Playground, have a picnic, and more. It’s perfect for families that love being around nature but still want a stunning view of New York’s buildings.
A pro tip for parents: Central Park has tons of romantic spots for photos, which is why it’s a crowd favorite for engagement photography in NYC. While the kids are playing or exploring the park, take your own cute couple photos in the many picturesque bridges by the lake or the cinematic Bethesda Terrace.
2. The Bronx Zoo
If your kids love animals, bring them to the Bronx Zoo. This zoo is one of the biggest in the world, spanning 265 acres. It’s home to over 11,000 animals in over 600 species, which will be a real treat for the kids. Highlights in the zoo include seeing big cats in Tiger Mountain and riding the Wild Asia Monorail to see red pandas, elephants, rhinos, wild horses, and more.
3. Coney Island
Coney Island is exactly what you would picture if you think of a summer day by the boardwalk. From the iconic Wonder Wheel to food stands selling ice cream, hotdogs, and other classic American snacks, there’s so much to see and do on the island.
You can even bring the kids to the New York Aquarium, situated right by the boardwalk, to see sharks, turtles, sea lions, and other colorful marine wildlife. After a day of going on thrilling rides and strolling by the beach, gather the family to watch the sunset and say goodbye to a perfect day.
4. Broadway
Level up your family movie nights and watch a live, world-class theater production along Broadway. There are plenty of incredible shows you can choose from, including Broadway shows for kids like Aladdin or The Lion King. If you’re traveling with teens, they might enjoy more mature plays, like Hamilton or The Great Gatsby. Whatever show you go with, you’ll be singing the tunes as a family all the way home.
5. Brooklyn Bridge Park
If you want stunning family photos to remember your trip by, you can’t skip out on Brooklyn Bridge Park. This park has the most epic views of NYC that you’ll surely want to capture in pictures and videos. Situated by the East River, it boasts a scenic view of the Brooklyn Bridge and a magnificent vantage of the New York City skyline you only see in the movies. It’s a fantastic spot to take selfies with the whole gang.
6. The Statue of Liberty
Finally, we have the Statue of Liberty, the ultimate symbol of American freedom and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the entire world. Hope on a ferry to travel to Liberty Island, where you and your family can see Lady Liberty up close.
This spot is also an excellent opportunity for the kids to learn more about history. Take the kids to the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration (just off of Liberty Island) so they can hear stories of the awe-inspiring journey so many people took over the centuries to reach America.
Endnote
There is so much to see in NYC, and it can be overwhelming trying to check every item on your list, especially when you’re traveling with children. However, the attractions above are iconic landmarks you cannot miss while you’re in the city. Whether you’re taking photos together by the Brooklyn Bridge or up on the Ferris wheel on Coney Island, these spots will be the backdrop of an unforgettable family trip you will hold close to your heart for years to come.