Unforgettable Family Days Out in New York City

Published: March 5, 2026
family in new york

Planning a family trip to New York City? You’re in for something special. The Big Apple delivers family fun in every flavor—wild rides, hands-on museums, sky-high views, animal encounters, and even room to stretch out on the grass. Whether you’ve got energetic toddlers, hard-to-impress teens, or a mixed crew, New York has magical city moments for every age. Get ready for a trip that’s part amusement park, part living museum, and 100% unforgettable. Here’s how to make those family memories count. 

Our favorite things to do as a family in NYC include: 

American Museum of Natural History 

Statue of Liberty 

The Beast Speedboat Ride 

Edge 

Luna Park 

Madame Tussauds 

Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking 

SEA LIFE Aquarium New Jersey 

Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First 

American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaur-Spotting and Space Travel 

Did someone say dinosaurs? The American Museum of Natural History is simply a must for family adventures in NYC. Kids go wild for the towering T-Rex and woolly mammoth skeletons, while the life-size blue whale in the Milstein Hall makes jaws drop—yes, even for grownups. The Hayden Planetarium offers cosmic journeys that leave everyone starry-eyed, and the butterfly conservatory (seasonal) brings magic to life with fluttering wings. 

There’s room to let off steam, plenty of snack stops, and, unlike some hush-hush museums, this place invites curiosity and questions. Interactive exhibits keep little hands busy, while older kids can puzzle over fascinating gems, meteorites, and dioramas packed with action. If you’re hoping for a fun, flexible atmosphere that turns learning into a game, you’ll find it here. Don’t forget to leave time for the dino gift shop, packed with souvenirs sure to make the trip last a little longer. 

Statue of Liberty: Lady Liberty Welcomes All Ages

Hop on a ferry and get ready for fresh air and big history. The Statue of Liberty isn’t just for the selfies—she’s a chapter of American adventure that kids can touch, climb (for those over a certain height), and remember forever. The ferry ride itself is a blast: salty breezes, skyline views, and plenty of room to roam the decks. 

On Liberty Island, families discover interactive exhibits and junior ranger activities that make the past come alive. Ellis Island’s museum tells the stories of millions of families; older kids especially enjoy tracing family histories and trying out the audio guides. Access is stroller-friendly and spacious, and even reluctant explorers will light up at the ferry horns and city views. Don’t forget Manhattan’s legendary pizza is waiting when you return! 

The Beast Speedboat Ride: New York’s Fastest Family Thrill 

Kids asking for something wild? The Beast answers with style. This 70-foot monster speedboat zips down the Hudson at, well, beastly speeds—complete with roaring music, spray, and non-stop city views. Young adventurers love this turbocharged ride; parents adore the fresh perspective on the skyline. 

The crew loves to play along, so expect jokes, epic tunes, and a festival feeling as you rocket to the Statue of Liberty and back. It’s part sightseeing, part amusement park, and packed with just the right amount of clean, splashy fun. For a real “wow, we did that!” moment, The Beast delivers—you’ll be swapping stories about your wild ride all vacation long. 

Edge: Get Above NYC On The Sky Deck 

Turn family bragging rights up to eleven with a visit to Edge. Suspended 100 floors above Hudson Yards, this outdoor sky deck (with glass floors!) gives families a thrilling taste of city life from the clouds. The elevator up is an experience itself, and the views—wow—stretch from Lady Liberty to Central Park. 

What’s special about Edge is its outdoor observation platform, where you can peer straight down on the city through transparent panels. Got small kids or acrophobes? The safety rails and plenty of seating keep things comfortable, and the staff love helping families get that perfect photo. On windy days, hold onto your hats! There’s plenty to learn about Manhattan’s neighborhoods at the interactive exhibits indoors, so you get a side of education with your adrenaline. 

Luna Park: Coney Island’s Classic Amusement Wonderland

Bright lights, the smell of cotton candy, and the sound of laughter—Luna Park in Coney Island is your classic family day out. This legendary amusement park brings old-school fun with a wild twist. Daredevil families will love the Cyclone rollercoaster, but there’s no shortage of gentler rides, from spinning tea cups to the swinging Wonder Wheel. 

If your family includes thrill-seekers and cautious tots alike, everyone finds their happy place here. Arcade games, carnival snacks, and ocean breezes complete the scene. After a day riding, take a stroll down the boardwalk to the beach, or swing by Nathan’s Famous nearby for classic hot dogs—a Coney Island tradition. 

Madame Tussauds: Superstar Selfies in Times Square 

Got a pop culture fan in your pack? Madame Tussauds brings movie stars, superheroes, athletes, and even royalty under one roof… in wax, of course! The museum mixes playful interactivity with dazzling backdrops perfect for silly selfies. Want to high-five the Hulk or pose on a Broadway stage? That’s all part of the experience. 

You’ll find themed zones for every age—from Marvel superheroes for the little ones to musicians and athletes for the teens. The space is stroller-friendly, and the friendly staff is happy to snap your group photo with Spiderman or Taylor Swift. For families ready to lean into NYC’s star-power energy, Tussauds never disappoints. 

Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking: Wheels for the Whole Crew 

Zooming through Central Park on two wheels is a rite of passage for city families. Unlimited Biking caters to every age and ability, offering comfy cruisers, kids’ bikes, trailers, and even tandem options. The team here knows the best selfie stops and will map out a loop tailored to your group’s energy and interests. 

Pedal past Shakespeare Garden, glide through lush meadows, and ring your bell through quaint bridges. Cycling is a great way to cover more ground, stay cool in summer, and spot hidden gems (hello, Belvedere Castle). Picnic stops encouraged—and yes, there’s basket space for snacks from nearby delis. 

SEA LIFE Aquarium New Jersey: Underwater Adventure Just Across the River 

If your crew is fanatical about fish or wants a splashy break from city buzz, SEA LIFE Aquarium in New Jersey is just a quick hop away. Here, dramatic walk-through tunnels bring you face-to-face with sharks, rays, and colorful tropical fish—no snorkel required. Interactive touch pools are perfect for curious little hands. 

This aquarium prides itself on engaging, vivid displays, clever facts, and hands-on conservation education that makes a difference. Grownups appreciate the spotless space and manageable size—kids can explore without getting overwhelmed. Plus, the location in American Dream mall offers up plenty of dining and shopping options for a full afternoon adventure. 

Broadway and Times Square Tour by Experience First: Lights, Legends, and Learning 

End your family adventure with a dose of razzle-dazzle. Explore the bright lights and big dreams of Times Square on a fun, fact-packed Broadway walking tour. Guides sprinkle in legends of past and present, giving you backstage tales, musical memories, and fun facts that bring this legendary theater district to life. 

Kids love the street performers and costumed characters sprinkled along the way, while parents learn surprising tidbits about iconic theaters and game-changing stars. If you’re planning to see a Broadway show, this tour is the perfect warmup: your guide will unlock secret histories, point out hidden design details, and even offer insider tips for scoring the best seats or theater snacks. What stands out is the infectious energy—Times Square thrums with excitement, and seeing your kids’ faces light up alongside the neon glow is pure New York magic. Whether your crew dreams of the stage or just loves a good behind-the-scenes story, this tour makes the city’s most famous crossroads even more special. 

Ready to Make the Most of Your Family Trip? 

New York City was made for memory-making, and every neighborhood has a story (or a playground, museum, or must-try pizzeria) waiting for your family. Whether you’re seeking full-throttle thrills, peaceful park days, or new ways to see the city, these picks prove you don’t have to be a local to experience NYC like one. 

So, next time you’re planning that ultimate family escape to the Big Apple, keep these adventures in your back pocket. There’s a reason families return to New York over and over: every visit brings a little more wonder, a lot more photos, and enough stories to last until your next trip. 

Happy exploring! 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out travel tips from real New Yorkers, and try a tour of the city from a different angle.  
 
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New York City tourism: how safe is NYC for tourists?

TV, news and social media might have you wondering, 'how safe is NYC for tourists?' But we're here to put your mind at ease: the truth is that New York City is one of the safest big cities in the world, meaning you're free to enjoy the very best New York attractions the city has to offer! Visitors are constantly under the protection of the city's vigilant police force. Having said this, that doesn't mean that you don't need to be cautious to stay safe. If you're visiting New York and you're wondering if New York City is safe, do some research to prepare yourself for your trip. Familiarizing yourself with the city's hazards, and being pragmatic, and prepared is all you need to ensure peace of mind. How safe is NYC for tourists? The crime rate is relatively low in New York City. When crimes occur they usually don't take place in tourist-heavy areas around Manhattan. 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How to Get Around in NYC

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The vestibules are often smelly, dirty and congested and the old-fashioned trains are often late, or in desperate need of repair. Despite this, Most New Yorkers use the subway every day for their commute in place of driving, and you should too. Follow alert.mta.info for current delays or reroutes. The best way to navigate the subway is to get really familiar with the infamous Subway Map. This work of art will tell you everything you need to know, as long as you know roughly where you are and where you're going. Once you have found your destination stop and identify the line you have to take, you have to pay attention to whether the train is going Uptown or Downtown. The Uptown and Downtown terms are relative to where you currently are, typically if you're heading North (or to the Bronx or Queens), take the Uptown train and if you're headed South (or to Brooklyn), take the Downtown train. 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Unlike the Subway, the buses actually operate on a schedule decently well (many New Yorkers may disagree with this statement). Again, all you really need here is the schedule and a Bus Map and you're good to go! Unlike the subway, your phones will work here the whole time. [spacer height="20px"] Citibike (and other bike rentals) [caption id="attachment_1198" align="aligncenter" width="993"] Citibike rack | Photo via Siegel+Gale[/caption] Biking around New York has become not only a popular pastime, but also a popular mode of transportation. Health/earth conscious New Yorkers have opted for two wheels in place of cars and congested subways. If you don't own a bike, or for whatever reason can't ride yours, there are plenty of options out there. Perhaps the most popular is Citibike, a bike sharing program, available all over the city, offering short-term bike rentals. Citibike offers either yearly membership, or a day pass for short-term visitors. With the day pass, you can ride as many times as you want, for $12. Remember that you have 30 minutes before you have to dock again. Download the Citibike app to get information about the closest docking stations, including real-time availability map. If you would rather get a better bike for a rental, without being limited to the 30-minute timeline, you can try Central Park Sightseeing, Central Park Bike Rent or Blazing Saddles. Blazing Saddles offers cruiser rentals down at South Street Seaport, and pier 84, while the other two companies offer rentals and tours in Central Park and Brooklyn Bridge. You can rent from a [spacer height="20px"] Hop on Hop off Bus [caption id="attachment_1199" align="aligncenter" width="1139"] Big Bus Tours[/caption] One of the most scenic and informative ways to see New York is on top of a Big Bus double-decker bus. These buses go around in several loops, have a tour guide and stop by most of the major attractions. You can either take Big Bus as a sightseeing tour and do the whole loop (each loop is about 2 - 2.5 hours) or hop on and off wherever is convenient for you. Keep in mind that the buses go in NYC traffic and can be quite slow. It's not the best transportation option when you're in a rush, but it's a great way to get acquainted with the city when you first arrive. Each New York Pass holder receives a free 1-day ticket, covering the Downtown, Midtown and Uptown loop. [spacer height="20px"] Foot [caption id="attachment_1230" align="alignright" width="1500"] The High Line | Photo via TimeOut New York[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] The most popular way of getting around in NYC, hands down, is walking. New York City is one of the most walkable cities, due to its concentration on a relatively small piece of land. You can technically walk the entire island of Manhattan in the span of a day. When visiting New York, it's a good idea to bring a pair of comfortable shoes, because unless you want to shell out big bucks for taxis, chances are you are going to do quite a bit of walking regardless. Manhattan above 14th St. is very easy to navigate on foot, because the streets are organized in a grid. 12 Avenues go North to South and 200 some streets cross them East to West. The boundary between East side and West side is 5th Avenue. Things get more complicated Downtown, where there is no street organization to speak of. It's recommended to fire up Google Maps while strolling below 14th St. [spacer height="20px"] New York Water Taxi (and other ferries) [caption id="attachment_779" align="aligncenter" width="2845"] New York Water Taxi[/caption] Most of New York City is essentially a cluster of islands, as such it is intertwined with a body of water, which presents a great opportunity for water-based transportation. 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New York City taxis are heavily regulated, so you don't have to worry about getting ripped off if you hail a cab, but please remember the etiquette attached to riding in a taxi. Regardless of how far you go, please remember to tip your cab drivers, preferably in cash. [spacer height="20px"] Uber (and other ride share programs) [caption id="attachment_1231" align="alignright" width="2000"] Uber | Photo via The Bubble[/caption] Uber has become insanely popular in recent years. Ride share programs have a few advantages over taxis. They tend to be cheaper, you can call them from an app, wherever you are, and you don't have to tip. You can call an Uber, Lyft or Juno, at any time, wherever you and and in a few minutes your car will be waiting for you. One draw back is that during peak time, in popular areas, Uber has surge pricing, so you can end up paying much more than you would in a taxi. If you need a ride on a Friday night in West Village, you may be better off hailing a taxi than calling an Uber. in outer boroughs, rude share apps are almost always more accessible.
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