Things To Do In NYC For Families On Vacation

By Casey Makovich

With so many attractions and activities, an NYC family vacation is bound to be a memorable trip. Seeing the Big Apple is an unforgettable experience that children of all ages can appreciate regardless of their interests. It's also an educational experience allowing sightseers to tour some of the most iconic landmarks in American history. NYC has something for everyone in the family. If you're planning a family vacation to New York, you'll make the most of your trip for you and your family if you put some research into which sights you'll see. We've put together a list of some of the best places in NYC to bring the whole family.

Free Entry with The New York Pass®

Free entry to many of these popular New York attractions and activities are included on The New York Pass®. Used by over 3.5 million travelers, the New York Pass is the ultimate sightseeing pass, which includes admission to 90+ attractions, Fast Track Entry at select attractions, a free guidebook, & much more. Learn more about the New York Pass benefits & how to save up to 70% off attractions.

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Immigration Museum

A New York City must for all visitors. The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are located at the southern tip of Manhattan. This site is one of the most important historical sights that kids visiting New York for the first time will want to see to get a greater understanding of not only New York history, but American history as well. From Battery Park, sightseers can take a free ferry to Ellis Island. The ferry ride itself is an interesting experience that gives passengers panoramic views of New York harbor. Once at Ellis Island, visitors can learn about New York's long history as a hub of immigration and the 12 million immigrants who first arrived in New York via Ellis Island. Admission: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall

Centrally located in Midtown Manhattan below Central Park, Rockefeller Center and Radio City Music Hall offer history, art, culture, and entertainment. Rockefeller Center is an iconic landmark that was originally commissioned by the wealthy Rockefeller family in the 1930's. Nowadays, Rockefeller Center is a National Historic Landmark. It's also a significant building architecturally as it showcases the Art Deco style of the early 20th century at its peak. Inside the Rockefeller Center, there is shopping, dining, and the Top of the Rock which offers birds-eye views of Midtown. Outside Rockefeller Center, there is a skating rink that young visitors can take advantage of during the winter months for some exercise. Visitors during the holiday season can also catch a glimpse of the famous Christmas tree that is put up each year in Rockefeller Plaza. The Radio City Music Hall serves as a venue for concerts throughout the year and is home to the famous Rockettes. This dancing troupe puts on a Christmas Spectacular each year that never fails to put the audience in the holiday spirit. Admission: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass. Admission: Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Although a newer addition to NYC's tourist offerings, this has quickly become one of the biggest attractions in the city. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum was constructed as a tribute to the victims of the World Trade Center attack in 2001. The museum details the history of the event and shows different types of artifacts related to the attack. Set some time aside to get the full experience from this unforgettable landmark. The museum itself contains more than 10,000 artifacts, and the memorial contains two reflecting pools for sightseers. Admission: 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Central Park With The Family

Central Park is one of the most scenic destinations in New York and offers a variety of activities for families, making it the perfect NYC family vacation thing to do. Make unforgettable memories with your family on a group bicycle or walking tour that explores Central Park sights you'll recognize from some of your favorite films. Even New York natives can get lost in the extensive grounds of Central Park. Among the many family activities in the park are boat rides, touring Central Park zoo or exploring Belvedere Castle. A day in Central Park will tire out even the most energetic kids. The park also provides great photo opportunities thanks to some of the beautiful scenery. Admission: Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Yankee Stadium

For sports-loving families, Yankee Stadium is an interesting sight to visit both during and outside of the baseball season. Yankee Stadium is open for tours throughout the year, and the stadium has artifacts from baseball history on display. Yankee Stadium is a good destination for families wishing to get out of Manhattan and see some other boroughs. Located in the Concourse neighborhood of the Bronx, Yankee Stadium gives New York visitors a chance to ride the subway and experience everyday life for a typical New Yorker. Admission: Yankee Stadium Classic Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Remember To Save On Attraction Admission

Many of the great attractions in New York City have something special in store for the entire family. Whether you're interested in sightseeing, taking a tour or enjoying art at a museum, an NYC family vacation is easy to plan with The New York Pass. If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, you'll be paying the admission price for your entire family at the door for each venue. Consider using the New York Pass which grants you free entry to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way you can save more and see more. For more information on the New York Pass, click here.

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Attraction of the Week - Highlights of Midtown Architectural Tour

[caption id="attachment_1095" align="alignright" width="6155"] Midtown Manhattan Skyline[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] Get acquainted with some of the landmarks that are synonymous with New York City, such as Grand Central Terminal or the Chrysler building with the Highlights of Midtown Architectural Tour. This walking tour takes participants through Midtown Manhattan and allows them to view some of the remarkable and iconic structures that were built here in the 20th century. These are some of the sights highlighted in the Midtown tour: Times Square When you come to New York, you're probably expecting everything to be like Times Square. This area has been a tourist favorite forever and why wouldn't it be? There's always something happening and the lights are always bright. Grand Central Terminal Easily one of the most famous train terminals in the world. People around the globe know of New York's busy midtown travel hub. Once home to art galleries and musical performances, Grand Central is still as busy as ever as New Yorkers and visitors commute through, visit the Grand Central Market or simply come to admire the beautiful architecture and the mesmerizing Astronomical Ceiling on the main concourse. United Nations Headquarters The elegant Midtown East complex designed by Brazilian architect Oscar Niemeyer is home to the organization known as the UN. Needless to say, some very important discussions take place in the UN building and its right here in New York! New York Public Library This historic structure came to be in 1895 and still today is the second largest public library in the entire country. The New York Public Library is a staple in the city's literature, education and technology. New York's Theater District Home to the vibrant scene of Broadway shows and theater performances in New York. The Theater district extends from West 40th to West 54th street and is usually jam packed for new showings with the biggest stars. Chrysler Building Towering over midtown, the 1928 structure of the Chrysler Building is just waiting to be captured in your photos. For 11 months before the construction of the Empire State Building, this iconinc art deco skyscraper was the tallest building in the world. Daily News Building Another 1920's landmark is the skyscraper located at 220 East 42nd street. The name comes from the Daily News TV broadcast that was once hosted inside of the building. Along the Highlights of Midtown Architectural Tour, you will learn about these landmarks and a whole lot more. Midtown Manhattan is the area most densely populated with landmarks and tourist attractions, ranging from historical buildings to modern attractions in Times Square. Check out some of the other walking tours available in the New York Pass.
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Top Things to do in NYC this Spring

With Spring time right around the corner, New York City is buzzing with great activities for the entire family. Get an early start on planning your trip so you know all the places to go with your New York Pass. Hopefully the weather will steadily get better and better, so you can enjoy New York City outdoors, on two feet. [spacer height="20px"] St. Patrick's Day Parade [caption id="attachment_1063" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] St. Patrick's Day Parade in NYC | Photo by Shannon Stapleton for Reuters[/caption] March 17 Nobody knows how to properly celebrate quite like the Irish. St. Paddy’s Day has a long tradition in New York City, due to its large Irish population and a long history of Irish immigration. This year, St. Patrick’s day falls on Friday, March 17 and kicks off with a big parade, which starts at 11am on 44th St and 5th Avenue. The whole day will be laden with celebrations and merriment, while people all over the city dress in green. The parade will end at 5pm at the American Irish Historical Society at East 80th St. After the parade, sip on some quality stout at some of the best Irish bars in NYC. [spacer height="20px"] South Bronx Renaissance Walking Tour [caption id="attachment_1070" align="aligncenter" width="1200"] South Bronx Renaissance Walking Tour[/caption] Opens March 1 As weather finally starts getting better, it's time to get out there and experience New York City as intended, on foot. Inside Out Tours offers a variety of informative tours in some of New York's most interesting neighborhoods. South Bronx is the epicenter of New York City counterculture, and this tour takes you on a walk through its renaissance and rebirth from the derilict neighborhood to the birthplace of hip hop and street art. The South Bronx Renaissance Tour, along with other Inside Out Tours starts up again on March 1st, at 10am on Fridays. [spacer height="20px"] Coney Island Luna Park [caption id="attachment_737" align="aligncenter" width="2048"] Luna Park at Coney Island[/caption] Opens April 8 The legendary Luna Park in Coney Island opening on April 8th after a seemingly endless Winter hiatus. The Luna Park welcomes visitors of all ages to its adrenaline-boosting thrill rides, as well as abundant kiddie rides. Try the Steeplechase, a New York Pass team favorite, for shockingly fast acceleration that will bring tears to your eyes. Coney Island is also home to one of New York City's most popular beaches, and the famous Nathan's Hot Dogs. With the New York Pass, you get a free unlimited 4 hour wristband. [spacer height="20px"] Bike Around Central Park [caption id="attachment_1092" align="alignright" width="1500"] Central Park from Belvedere Castle | Photo by Marley White via nycgo.com[/caption] Year round Biking in the Winter is not great. It's worth waiting for warmer weather and better road conditions to get out and rent a bike to ride around Central Park. There are three different bike routes of varying lengths, depending on how athletic you're feeling. Choose from routes that are 6.1 miles, 5.2 miles or 1.7 miles, for the ultimate way to explore this gigantic urban oasis. With the New York Pass, you have multiple bike rental options. Choose from Central Park Sightseeing Bike Tours and Rentals, Central Park Bike Rentals and Tours or Blazing Saddles to find the bikes that best fit your needs, from cruisers, state-of-the-art hybrid bikes, to children's bikes and tandem bicycles. If you'd prefer having a tour guide with you, you can also take a guided bike tour of Central Park. [spacer height="20px"] The High Line Tour [caption id="attachment_1067" align="aligncenter" width="1042"] The High Line | Photo by Liz Ligon[/caption] Open year-round Even though the High Line is accessible year-round, the beauty of this suspended park starts shining through in the spring. The local flora blooms with all different colors and the lush green grass provides an inviting atmosphere. Look down and see the busy streets of Manhattan as you walk along the High Line tour. Learn how the meatpacking district's factories and slaughterhouses came to be what it is today. Tour is available for free with the New York Pass. [spacer height="20px"] Clipper City Tall Ship Cruise [caption id="attachment_1066" align="aligncenter" width="2111"] Clipper City Tall Ship[/caption] Starting April 22 The ice is finally melting and the river will be clear for sailing on April 22nd, which is when the Clipper City Tall Ship sets sail again for the season. Get your camera ready and sail the New York Harbor aboard this replica of a classic 1800s sail boat, offering unparalleled views of Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and Downtown Manhattan. The boat is equipped with a full bar and helpful staff. If you're more into Gatsby-Era sailboats, take the Shearwater Classic Schooner for a chic sailing experience. [spacer height="20px"] Mummies Exhibit at American Museum of Natural History [caption id="attachment_1075" align="aligncenter" width="1280"] Mummies exhibit at American Museum of Natural History[/caption] Opens March 20 For thousands of years, peoples around the world practiced mummification as a way of preserving and honoring their dead. Mummies brings you face to face with some of these ancient individuals and reveals how scientists are using modern technology to glean stunning details about them and their cultures. American Museum of Natural History is one of New York City's most revered centers for knowledge. Spend the perfect afternoon with your kids walking through this magnificent space, right next to Central Park. [spacer height="20px"] Smorgasburg 2017 [caption id="attachment_1081" align="aligncenter" width="1001"] Raindrop Cake, popular desert at Smorgasburg | Photo by Tim Ireland[/caption] Starting April 1 No Summer in New York is complete without making a trip to Smorgasburg. This seasonal food flea market takes place at East River State Park and Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Each year Smorgasburg reunites New Yorkers with tons of local tastes and introduces them to new dishes from around the world. Make sure to visit Smorgasburg to experience Brooklyn's favorite summer pastime, while munching on insta-worthy classic and novelty foods. For many more exciting springtime activities for all weather conditions, check out the New York Pass and everything it has to offer. Over 90 attractions in New York City for one price, no need to put limits on your next New York City trip.
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10 Things to do on President’s Day in New York

President’s Day was originally designed to celebrate George Washington’s birthday. It’s a federal holiday held on the third Monday of February. These days, it’s meant to celebrate the birthdays of both Washington and Lincoln. But, it's often seen as a way to celebrate every U.S. president. It’s also a day of various happenings around the city. If you want to know how to celebrate the day, read on. Here are 10 of the best things to do on President’s Day in New York. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan President's Day coincides with the start of mid-winter break for public schools in the city. So, there are lots going on for families. The Children’s Museum of Manhattan has two new exhibits worth checking out. The first, 'Superpowered Metropolis: Early Learning City', is an interactive exhibit. It invites viewers into a comic-book-inspired New York, guided by a trio of pigeons. It's focused on early-learning brain skills. The other is called "Inside Art," and it features larger-than-life sculptures and installations with which visitors can interact. One of the 10 things to do on President's Day in New York! Photo copyright January StewartThe Intrepid Next, it’s Kids Week at the Intrepid! From February 15-22, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is offering more than 120 family-friendly events centered around STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Families can check out maker spaces, live shows, a pop-up planetarium, animal shows, and more. On President’s Day itself, families can catch a performance by the Gazillion Bubble Show, hear author Drew Brockington (CatStronauts) and watch a presentation by the Stamford Museum & Nature Center. Start checking off your list of the 10 things to do on President's Day in New York! Monday Night Magic Every Monday evening, the Players Theatre presents Monday Night Magic, with a special President’s Day show on February 17. Monday Night Magic (MNM) is New York’s longest-running Off-Broadway show; it’s been on the scene for more than 20 years. The show is characterized by its lack of Las Vegas-style frills—this is magic, pure and simple. Each show features four performers on stage; during the intermission, at least two magicians present close-up magic throughout the theatre. How does this tie into President’s Day? No idea. We imagine there's a little sleight of hand in there somewhere. Brooklyn Bridge Bike Rental If you were just thinking, ”I really need to get out more,” and by “out,” you mean an invigorating bike ride across the Brooklyn Bridge, you’re in luck. Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours & Rentals offer both self-guided and guided bike tours; get yourself a set of wheels and go! The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see spot (and a must-ride-across one as well.). Open in 1883, it’s now a national historic landmark with incredible views; it was once called the eighth wonder of the world. Grab some pals and get out there! Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island President’s Day is a great day to reflect on this country’s history—and no better place to do it than Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. The former was once the entry point into New York; more than a third of all Americans can trace their ancestry to someone who arrived at Ellis Island. It’s now a historical museum with plenty of interactive exhibits. The Statue of Liberty, of course is, well, the Statue of Liberty. Inspired by Libertas, the Roman god of freedom, Lady Liberty was a gift from France to the U.S. and is a symbol of democracy and freedom from oppression. Kingston Restaurant & Bar Looking for a more unconventional way to celebrate President’s Day? How about one with lots of Mimosas? Every holiday Monday, The Alumni Group offers Mimosa Mondays to close out the holiday weekend. For an extra $20, patrons can add an hour and a half of cocktails including mimosas, to their brunch entrees at Kingston Restaurant & Bar. Specializing in Caribbean and jerk food (think pineapple mango salsa, jerk chicken, curry shrimp), it’s a great end to a cold winter weekend, and one of our 10 things to do on President's Day in New York. Photo courtesy Kingston Bar & RestaurantCarnegie Hall The old adage says that the best way to get to Carnegie Hall is to practice, but you can also attend Who are the Brave, a program of patriotic and original works by American composers and conductors, including Chichester Psalms by Leonard Bernstein. The Distinguished Concert Orchestra and Conductors perform; student and senior discount tickets are available at the box office. Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s revolutionary Joseph and the Amazing Technicolored Dreamcoat turns 50 this year (!) and Lincoln Center is celebrating with an anniversary concert on President’s Day, February 17, at Lincoln Center in David Geffen Hall. The concert will feature more than 200 singers from across the United States, as well as the New York City Chamber Orchestra. The Metropolitan Museum of Art George (Washington, of course) couldn’t cross, or even gaze at,-the actual Delaware River in New York—but you can look at him looking at it in the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Located in the Museum’s American Wing, the painting Washington Crossing the Delaware by Emanuel Leutze is one of the museum’s most well-known works of art. What could be more appropriate for President’s Day? You’ll find plenty of other depictions of George as well as Abe (Lincoln) and some other U.S. presidents as well. (And there’s a fun activity—a president hunt!) BAM Oscar Movies And finally, missed some of the Oscar-nominated movies? Bam, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, is offering you a chance to catch up on some of the nominees this President’s Day. The all-day screening includes Knives Out, the 2020 Oscar-nominated animated and live-action shorts, and even Best Picture Winner Parasite. You can even catch up on lesser-known films like Cane River, which was lost in 1982; the negative was recovered in 2013. The film tells the story of African Americans fighting class and racial tension in Louisiana. Pick and choose, or see them all!
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