NYC has plenty of fun, exciting activities for the entire family. Whether you’re New York natives or visiting from out of town, there are tons of family-oriented hotspots to discover.
The city that never sleeps is characterized as an international business hub and adult playground, but it’s also host to the many families living and visiting there.
It’s easy to end up at classic tourist attractions such as the Empire State Building, Ellis and Coney Islands, the Statue of Liberty, and the list goes on. However, for families already familiar with the city, the classics are becoming old hat and for those coming for a visit with their young children, more interactive and exciting activities are desired.
Planning on discovering everything NYC has to offer to local and visiting families? Then having a professional chauffeur on hand will simplify your travels. Download the Blacklane app to easily get to/from and around the city in our Business Van/SUV Class and Sprinter Class vehicles.
For smaller families, the Business/SUV Class can fit up to five people with a bit of extra room for luggage. Does your family have XXL needs? Then our Sprinter Class (only available in NYC and select cities) fits up to twelve people with plenty of extra room for luggage. Plus, we provide child seats upon request.
Now that your rides are sorted, let’s dive into the possibilities. In a big city with so much to offer, the choices can be dizzying, but we’ve found some of the best family-friendly places to explore with your family.
Museums and libraries
Many tourists love to rave about the MoMa, but is it fun for a toddler? Museums are some of the most frequented and obvious destinations for tourists, but they can often be a little stuffy and boring for kids.
Children like to play and interact with what they see, so why not bring them someplace where they can do that? New York has a variety of museums geared toward opening the minds and sparking the creativity of its youngest visitors, such as:
- Children’s Museum of the Arts
- Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling
- New York City Fire Museum
- DiMenna Children’s History Museum
- National Museum of Mathematics
- Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
These museums boast interactive exhibits, performances, programs, and events.
Looking for an even more immersive museum experience? Then travel back to colonial times by visiting Historic Richmond Town on Staten Island. If you’re in need of a little quiet time, then take a reading break at the New York Public Library. They have over 92 locations throughout the city filled with books and events for your little ones.
Parks, zoos, and aquariums
Ready to hit the great outdoors? Although Central Park is the most well-known throughout the five boroughs, it’s not the only park in the city. Waterfront parks such as Brooklyn Bridge Park, Chelsea Waterside Park, and Hudson River Park are all excellent places to check out with the whole family. Plus, the last two are right next to each other and the Chelsea Piers, which is a huge multi-sport complex where you can go golfing, bowling, and skating among other fun activities.
If you’re looking to take a walk on the wild side, then a visit to one of the four zoos in the city – the Bronx is the most famous – or the New York Aquarium run by the Wildlife Conservation Society would be a great way to spend the day.
Theaters and shows
Looking for some live entertainment? Then why not immersive yourself in the theater! The New Victory Theater is dedicated exclusively to bringing art to children through education and shows specially created for youngsters.
The Brooklyn Academy of Music offers a variety of shows appropriate for kids and adults spanning music, theater, dance, visual arts, comedy, and so much more. If you’re looking to get an iconic Broadway moment, then there are plenty of shows for kids such as The Lion King, Wicked, Mrs. Doubtfire, Beetlejuice, and more.
