Things To Do In NYC With Teenagers On Vacation

By Go City Expert

Top 10 Things to Do in NYC With Teenagers on Vacation

When you are traveling with teenagers on a vacation to NYC, you'll probably have to make some concessions to a typical itinerary; teens are natural thrill seekers with age-related interests that are beyond understanding to most adults. That being said, there are plenty of things to do with teens in New York City without hearing, “I’m bored” a thousand times a day. To help you out, we have created a top 10 list of the most amazing, teen-friendly things to do when vacationing in the Big Red Apple (that you'll enjoy doing, too).

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.

On Location Tours

If your teen goes crazy for celebrities the On Location Tour should be at the top of your list. New York City is the filming location for hundreds of movies and television shows. As a result, there are ample opportunities to run into celebs for photo ops. Better yet, take the On Location Tour to hit up the most sought-after filming sites. There is a stop for Gossip Girls, Amazing Spider-Man, Glee, and Friends, plus dozens more. Admission: On Location Tours: Central Park TV & Movie Sites Walking Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Madame Tussauds

Wax museums have this way of bringing out the inner child in everyone. Give your teen a ticket to Madame Tussauds New York and watch them go gaga after the faux celebs. The museum is constantly updating exhibits, so there will certainly be recognizable and relevant figures. Plus, Madame Tussauds is keeping things lively. For example, at the Project Runway Fashion Experience teens can create their own fashion line and walk the runway. Admission: Madame Tussauds tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Luna Park in Coney Island

Coney Island is one of the coolest places to hang out in New York City. Teens will love the endless thrills and things to do at Coney Island. Tack on the thrills of Luna Park for an all-around great way to entertain even the moodiest teen for a day. Located in the Brooklyn borough, Luna Park is home to rides like the Sling Shot and Steeplechase. The park also plays host to live entertainment throughout the year, so check it out before you visit to see what’s happening when you are in town. Admission: Luna Park at Coney Island tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Times Square

Any teen who travels to NYC will want to say they’ve been to Times Square. This is, after all, the most iconic spot on the NYC map. Bring your teen to the crossroads of the bright lights of this big city before you end your trip. While in Times Square, take a ride on the subway, catch a hip Broadway show, or shop until your teen is ready to drop. Times Square is also one of the best places to grab a bite to eat, whether your teen is a McDonald’s fanatic or into something more sophisticated like sushi.

One World Observatory

Take your teenager to the top of the world at the One World Observatory. This is one place where most teens haven’t been, giving your teen some serious travel cred. There’s a glass elevator that takes you to the top of the 1,776-foot tall skyscraper. From there you can see every bit of New York City for some sweet selfie moments. While the Foundations room is neat, the real treat for teenagers is the Skyportal that dangles you over the ground on a disc made of glass. Admission: One World Observatory tickets are not included with the New York Pass.

Pump Track

Teens who are into rollerblading, skateboarding, or trick bike riding are in luck. At the Velosolutions Asphalt Pump Track, teens can test their skills on this blacktop playground. If your teen is interested in actually getting out there make sure they pack their wheels. While you sit and gawk awestruck at the serious tricks taking place, you can also enjoy the scenic Manhattan views.

Empire State Building

As one of the most well-known landmarks of New York City teenagers on vacation needs to pencil the Empire State Building into their schedule. However, you want to make it exciting so they are interested in seeing this historic building. Consider going at midnight, as the building is open until 2 am so that you can see NYC in all of its illuminated glory. You can also get the teen to download the trendy, and free, Empire State Building Experience app on their smartphone for a more relevant encounter with this wondrous site. Admission: Empire State Building tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Museum of Modern Art

Andy Warhol, Vincent Van Gogh, Pablo Picasso...if your teen is into art, then, by all means, make a beeline to the Museum of Modern Art. At MoMA, the most famous and highly prized modern sculpture, photography, and paintings are on display. If you need a break from all the activity, rest your laurels in the luxurious Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Sculpture Garden in the museum. Before you leave the museum, treat your teenager to a fine dining experience in the mod landscape. The Modern is a two Michelin star restaurant that offers a modern take on some of the best food in the city. Admission: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Bronx Zoo Zip Line

Yes, that’s correct, there is a zip line in NYC and it takes you over the top of Bronx Zoo. For teenagers who need an adrenaline rush, this is the perfect place to combine a love for animals with high-line speed. They will be thrilled at the prospect of telling friends they went zip lining over a zoo while traveling to NYC. Fly over the Bronx River for 400 feet at a staggering 50 feet off the ground. If your teen backs out at the last minute, no worries. They can save face by enjoying the aerial adventure course at the zoo. Plus, it’s a zoo, after all, where any teen can visit the World of Reptiles, the Congo Gorilla Forest, and Sea Lion Pool. Tip: The Bronx Zoo is free to the public on Wednesdays.

Remember To Save On Admission Attractions

New York is the perfect city for teenagers to get out and have fun while trying new things. There are tons of activities across the 5 boroughs including museums, guided tours, zoos, and sightseeing. With so much to do during your trip to NYC, you can easily find yourself paying a lot of money on general admission at attractions. However, if you use the New York Pass you'll gain free access to over 90 attractions in New York City. That way, you'll be able to see more attractions and experience more things to do with teens in NYC on vacation--all, while saving more money. For more information on the New York Pass, click here.

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Valentine’s Day Itinerary

February 5, 2020 Ah, Valentine’s Day. The holiday actually began as a Western Christian Feast Day in honor of two saints named Valentinus. It became associated with romantic love in the 14th century—although no one is really sure where that association came from, or why. Today, there's a lot of pressure surrounding the holiday. It needs to be perfect! Or at least, very, very good. It needs to be incredibly romantic! Yet, effortlessly casual. It needs to be quintessentially New York! Well, that part we can help with. We’ve got the Valentine’s Day itinerary that ticks all the boxes. The romance part of it is up to you. Tartine Start off your day with a lovely breakfast/brunch. The West Village has all the right vibes, and many places there actually serve breakfast, as opposed to brunch, where patrons often can't actually eat until around the time the rest of would call lunch.. You might consider heading to Tartine (their website says they thrive on love, so there you go.) Go traditional, with Eggs Benedict, or maybe French toast with homemade brioche and smoked bacon. The more adventurous might want to try the Tunisian breakfast, with poached eggs, wilted spinach, chickpeas and Sriracha, or perhaps just a latte and croissant. Mais oui! Top of the Rock After that, why not a stroll uptown? (OK, it’s February, so perhaps a very brisk stroll.) The Top of the Rock Observation Deck is the perfect place to take in New York from on high. They have indoor and outdoor viewing decks and unbelievable views of the city. On a clear day, you can see, you know. It's quintessntially New York, and a perfect part of your Valentine's Day itinerary. The Rink at Brookfield Place From there, take advantage of one of New York’s great outdoor winter activities--ice skating! (It is winter, after all.) Head to the Rink at Brookfield Place, with plenty of public skating sessions and spectacular city (and Jersey) views. Plus it’s small-ish (and thus cozy.) You can also dip inside Brookfield Place itself for refueling. Maybe Blue Ribbon Sushi? Or the For Five Café—the coffee is from a micro-roasting facility in Queens. Yes, Queens. For more of a scene, check out the rink at the Winter Village at Bryant Park. It’s louder, more crowded, and quite fun, plus you can always run into the glorious main branch of the Public Library on Fifth Avenue if you get cold. Photo courtesy The Rink at Brookfield Place Museum of Sex If you’re feeling frisky, perhaps head to the Museum of Sex as part of your Valentine's Day itinerary? The museum actually presents a wide array of exhibitions designed to look at the history, evolution, and culture of human sexuality, such as a current interactive exhibit that charts the history of the carnival. Courtesy of Museum of Sex Central Park Zoo If it’s not too cold, you can head to the Central Park Zoo. There’s nothing more romantic that gazing at a red panda. (No, seriously, there’s a high aww factor.) Make sure to watch one of the animal feedings, and pose for some pics with your faves. It’s a beautiful spot in its own right, with more than six acres and a panorama of the city spread out around it. Did you know that the zoo's precursor was first open in 1864, and was the first public zoo in New York City? It’s also appeared in countless books and films, like Madagascar. Just some trivia in case a quiet moment stretches on too long. Central Park Carousel As long as you’re in the park, why not head to the carousel? No matter your age, it’s hard not to be charmed by this iconic landmark, which has been around for almost 150 years. Four carousels have been on the site since 1871; this one was built by a Brooklyn firm in 1908. It too has appeared in literature and films, like the classic Catcher in the Rye. And at $3 (yes, $3) a ride, it’s arguably one of the city’s best deals. Romantic and thrifty—a winning combination. One if by Land, Two if By Sea If you’re lagging, and the day is waning, it’s time to briefly part and reunite for dinner. You can go old school at One if By Land, Two if By Sea, a beautiful restaurant as well known for proposals as it is for the food and the ambience. It’s got the ambience and the candlelight and the classic white tablecloths, and it's supposedly haunted by the ghost of former owner Aaron Burr. (Yes, that Aaron Burr.) They have a special Valentine’s Day menu (both lunch and dinner), with such choices as lobster gnocchi, pan-seared scallops, and Beef Wellington. We told you it was old school. Looking for something less traditional? Try the incredibly cool Llama San, known for its mix of Peruvian and Japanese food known as Nikkei. (The menu is so minimalist that it basically contains no information at all.) The food combinations are often unusual and unexpected—think aged duck over cilantro rice, with a banana slice and nasturtium leaf. Yes, that is an actual dish. And finally, wind down your evening with a nightcap. Depending on where you are, you might check out the underground speakeasy-style Little Branch in the West Village. It's too cool for a website, but you can’t go wrong with the classics, or you can try a winter-perfect Penicillin, with scotch, ginger, honey, and lemon. It’s a drink and a cough drop! Photo courtesy One if by Land, Two if by Sea With this array of choices, your Valentine’s Day itinerary has a lot going for it. And if it doesn’t work out the way you planned, well, as the ballplayers say, there’s always next year.
Go City Expert
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Attraction of the Week - Museum of Sex

Every week, we take closer look at one of the New York Pass attraction, big or small. This week we bring you Museum of Sex, New York City's spiciest cultural institution. [caption id="attachment_787" align="aligncenter" width="2015"] Museum of Sex[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] Museum of Sex is one of New York City's most risque museums, you certainly won't find any Monet here. Instead the museum brings you an in depth look at the history, science and the sometimes bizarre and shocking nature of sex. The museum boasts with interactive exhibits, lots of fun, hand-on toys and gadgets, as well ah hundreds of blush-inducing images and videos. You can see everything from informative exhibits about animal sex, the history of sex and eroticism, or you can have some fun at the Funland and the bouncy breast castle. Finish your visit by shopping at the infamous gift shop unlike any other in the city. Visit Museum of Sex for free with your New York Pass. [spacer height="20px"] Address: 233 Fifth Avenue at 27th Street, New York Hours: Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 9pm (last entry at 8pm) Friday & Saturday: 11am – 11pm (last entry at 10pm) Closed Thanksgiving day and Christmas day.
Go City Expert
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Best New York City Cruises

This summer has brought us some pretty insufferable heat. And while it's supposed to get milder, there's still plenty of time to enjoy a refreshing breeze and a cold cocktail on one of NYC's finest cruises. Circle Line Sightseeing [caption id="attachment_776" align="aligncenter" width="801"] Circle Line Sightseeing under the Brooklyn Bridge[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] New York's quintessential cruise company, Circle Line Sightseeing, operating out of 42nd Street's pier 83 offers a variety of exciting sightseeing cruises. From the thrilling speedy Beast Speedboat ride to the 3-hour Best of NYC cruise that takes you around the entire island, there's plenty to choose from for everybody. Try the popular Harbor Lights Cruise for amazing evening-time views or the new Hello Brooklyn Tour for a closer look at the up-and-coming borough. Clipper City Tall Ship [caption id="attachment_777" align="aligncenter" width="801"] Clipper City Tall Ship[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] This lovely, vintage sail boat takes you on a serene, 90 minute ride around the Statue of Liberty, offering spectacular views of the Downtown Manhattan skyline and up-close views of the statue. The boat is equipped with a bar and the staff recruits some lucky passengers to help pull the ropes and steer the rudder. The tour is not narrated, which gives you opportunity to have a quiet afternoon at sea, contemplating. Clipper City departs at 2:15pm and 4:30pm for daytime sails and at 9:30pm for night time sail. Shearwater Classic Schooner [caption id="attachment_778" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Shearwater Classic Schooner at Sunset[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] A second sail cruise offered by Manhattan by Sail (operator of Clipper City) is a true winner. The Gatsby-era schooner offers a serene, breezy sail will make you feel like a million bucks while you enjoy the waves, the wind and a refreshing beverage on the 82 foot double-masted yacht. The Daytime Statue Sail departs at 12:30pm and 2:45pm Monday-Friday. New York Water Taxi [caption id="attachment_779" align="aligncenter" width="800"] New York Water Taxi[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] New York City taxi cab, in water. Enough said. In case you need more, New York Water Taxi makes three stops along the coast of Manhattan and two in Brooklyn. There's simply no better way to cross the river, or get Downtown from Hell's Kitchen than on a boat. With the New York Pass, you get a free All Day Access Pass to enjoy seamless commuting in style. Spirit Cruises [caption id="attachment_780" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Spirit Dinner Cruise[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] Whether you want to impress your significant other with a romantic dinner, or some clients with a spectacular power lunch, Spirit Cruises has you covered. The luxury yacht departs from Chelsea Piers and will take you around Downtown Manhattan, which will dazzle you with majestic skyscrapers making up the amazing skyline view. The New York Pass offers $10 off dinner cruises and $5 off lunch cruises. [spacer height="20px"] For other cruises, tours and attractions, please visit the New York Pass Website.
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