Weekends in New York

The weekend starts right here with your cut-out-and-keep guide to acing New York in under 48 hours.

By Dom Bewley
Published: May 16, 2024
NYC subway

The Big Apple is one of the most visited cities on the planet. On average, over 30 million people visit New York every year. That's… a lot of people. How many people do you know, like twelve? Times that by a gazillion, and you're only scratching the surface. Probably – math is hard. So the big question is, why do so many people flock to New York's shores every year? 

It probably helps that there’s just so much to do and see there; a skyline full of literal iconography that you can visit, the 24-hour nightlife, the shopping, the restaurant scene. New York has it all. It's no wonder then that so many people spend their weekends in New York. But with so much on offer, planning is vital. That's why we've curated this itinerary just for you. So fetch your best traveling hat, dust off those walking boots, go grab a coffee and dive in to our guide to a perfect weekend in New York, including:

  • The Empire State Building
  • American Museum of Natural History
  • Central Park
  • Big Bus New York
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Luna Park
  • Brooklyn Botanic Garden
  • Brunch, lunch dinner and entertainment spots
  • … and more!

Want to save a bundle on entry to more than 100 NYC attractions vs buying individual tickets on the door? Choose the New York Pass that suits your sightseeing vibe here.

Saturday morning

Empire State Building

You'll need some energy to power your day, so kick things off at andrews NYC Diner – your classic, all-American diner – right on 7th in Midtown. But this isn't just any old breakfast experience, as many consider andrews the best in the city! Pancakes, waffles, french toast, eggs, the list goes on.

Then, once you're fueled up, it’s time to get the big guns out of the way. First, we'll hit up the world-famous Empire State Building, which boasts the city’s best views from up top (although, of course, One World Observatory, Edge et al might have something to say about that!). But beyond viewing New York from 102 floors up, you can also explore 12 galleries that explain the history of the building, as well as the chance to nab a selfie with King Kong himself!

Want a view of rather than from the Empire State Building? Easy. Skip daintily up 6th to Rockefeller Plaza, where Top of the Rock promises sweet uninterrupted views of big KK’s favorite Art Deco crown.

Saturday noon

Bow Bridge in Central Park

Back at ground level, it's time to chase down some lunch. You're spoiled for choice here, but we'd recommend Upland, a charming brasserie over on Park Avenue South that offers a delightful fusion of Italian dishes with a Californian twist. They have sandwiches, pizza, pasta and much more on offer. Why not pair your meal with a nice glass of wine? You're on vacation, after all.

Next, head to Central Park to walk off all those carbs in one of the world's most famous green spaces. Pro-tip: you’ll get around its myriad attractions – architectural follies, swoonsome bridges, tranquil Japanese gardens – even faster on a bike. Then, when you've explored enough (and burnt off some calories to boot), head to the nearby American Museum of Natural History. You can spend hours looking at ancient fossils and life-sized dioramas, and learn all about the history of Earth. A little culture never hurt anyone, right?

Saturday night

Jazz band

Next, as afternoon turns to evening, fill your bucket list quota in one fell swoop with a scooch around town on the Big Bus. In fact, you can make use of this frankly amazing hop-on hop-off service for the entire duration of your weekend in New York. You'll pass Times Square, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central and Carnegie Hall (to name but a few), learn about their history, and get a front-row seat to New York's quirky street life to boot!

Then, grab a spot of dinner at COTE NYC Flatiron, a Michelin-starred Korean Steakhouse which offers some of the best slabs of meat in the city. Then, if you fancy it, check out the local watering holes. Attaboy down in SoHo offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious cocktails in a tucked-away location. Or, if you're looking for some amber relief (or black gold), try The Dead Rabbit near Battery Park. This delightful Irish taproom has a whole host of craft beers on offer, as well as other liquid delights (including Guinness, obvs) should they take your fancy. 

Suitably well-oiled, get ready to showcase your best jazz hands or unleash your inner Elton at your pick of two great NYC institutions: the Harlem Jazz Series or the rollicking singalong that is the Shake, Rattle & Roll Dueling Pianos extravaganza. Now, get some rest and prep your body for another day of fun!

Sunday morning

Statue of Liberty

Big day ahead of us, so start smart with a late breakfast at Hutch & Waldo just north of The Battery. A breakfast burrito or Cali wrap with an espresso chaser should suffice to fill you up for the trip ahead.

And what trip is that? Well, you might be wondering why we're starting the day so close to the coast? That's because there's one very important NYC landmark we haven't checked off yet. We're talking about the Statue of Liberty, or ‘Lady Liberty’ to her friends. To get there, you'll need to board a ferry across the water. Then, once you're there, you can tour Ellis Island, get up close and personal with the old gal, and learn all about her history and how she came to be. Then, when you're all statued out, hop back on the ferry back to the mainland.

Sunday noon

Brooklyn Bridge

Lunchtime! Cruise across the Brooklyn Bridge to NYC's swanky suburb, and grab a panini at Pisillo Italian Panini. They have tons of variants to try no matter your taste, each named after an area of Italy. Try the Milano, trust us.

Then, if the weather’s good, go check out Coney Island and hop on some of the rides at Luna Park. Just a stone's throw from central Brooklyn, it's a great way to get a bit of beach time on your city vacation. Or take your spray-can (no, not really) on a guided walking tour of the borough’s best graffiti.

Or, if the weather isn't good, go check out Brooklyn Museum and the nearby Botanic Garden. The museum boasts a massive collection of artifacts from all over the world, including ancient Egypt, Africa and Europe. The gardens provide you with 50+ acres of exotic plants and indoor greenhouses to meander through, possibly with your umbrella up.

Sunday night

Cocktail

Time for a final meal and a tour of Brooklyn's brilliant nightlife! We recommend dining at Vinegar Hill House. The name might not sound appetizing, but once you flick through its brilliant New American menu, you'll be set. The pork chop with cheddar jalapeno grits might just be the best thing you've tasted all year.

And now, to end this merry adventure, it's time to explore Brooklyn's bar scene. Want to put a spring in your step and end your vacation on a yee-haw high? Check out Skinny Dennis, a honky-tonk saloon with a burgeoning beer menu backed by live country music. Or, if cocktails are your things, you're spoiled for choice! We'd recommend Sweet Polly or The Clover Club to sate your mixology needs.

And, sadly, that's the end of our guide to the perfect weekend in New York! There's so much more to see and do; you'll just have to catch it all next time! Don’t forget your New York Pass, to save yourself substantial bucks when visiting multiple NYC attractions.

Enjoyed this little slice of New York?

Find out why you (yes: you) should visit the American Museum of Natural History, get the lowdown on the Big Bus, and pick your side in the battle of Manhattan vs Brooklyn.

With The New York Pass®, you can skip the stress and save big on dozens of must-see attractions, all with one easy-to-use pass.

🗽 Don't explore the Big Apple without this

💰 How much can you really save in NYC?

Dom Bewley
New York Travel Expert

Build your unique New York itinerary with our trip planner

Who's going?
Adult
1
Child (3-12)
0
How many days?
What do you want to see?

Continue reading

street corner on the Lower East Side of NYC where you'll find some of the best things to do in the city
Blog

NYC’s Lower East Side: Markets, Murals, and More

Ready to dive into one of New York’s most captivating neighborhoods? Lower East Side buzzes with energy, where every block tells a different story. From century-old Jewish delis to hidden speakeasies and street art that bursts with color, the Lower East Side offers more than just great bagels (though, yes, you’ll find those too!). Whether you’re craving fascinating history, mouthwatering eats, or a night out surrounded by NYC locals, this is urban adventure at its finest. Here’s our guide to exploring, eating, and experiencing everything Lower East Side has to offer.    Our can’t-miss Lower East Side picks include:  Lower East Side Food and Culture Walking Tour by Top Dog Tours  The Tenement Museum  Katz’s Delicatessen  Essex Market  Street Art Safari  Russ & Daughters Café and Shop  Visit to Mercury Lounge  Museum at Eldridge Street  Rooftop Drinks at The DL  Economy Candy  Lower East Side Food and Culture Walking Tour by Top Dog Tours  If you want a crash course in everything this neighborhood is famous for, start here. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Walking Tour isn’t just about eating—though, yes, there’s a lot of delicious sampling involved. Think of it more like time travel with snacks. Passionate guides introduce you to classic delis, Jewish bakeries, fresh dumpling counters, and much-loved pickles stands, sharing stories about generations of immigrant families who shaped the area’s character. Expect stops at legendary eateries (sometimes even with owner stories), tastings of knishes, bagels, possibly even a fresh pastrami sample, and loads of insight into how the Lower East Side became New York’s ultimate culinary crossroads.  Beyond the bites, this walking tour winds through alleys covered in vibrant murals and architectural treasures you’d miss on your own. Every block reveals another fascinating tale—from pushcart vendors to punk rockers. Whether you’re curious about bagel origins or want to hear how the neighborhood turned into a street art canvas, this tour delivers both flavor and local color in every sense. Come hungry, leave with a full belly, new friends, and a love for the Lower East Side’s flavorful heritage.  The Tenement Museum  Peek behind the tenement doors and you’ll discover the real stories that built modern New York. The Tenement Museum isn’t your typical museum—it’s a living history experience set inside meticulously recreated apartments on Orchard Street. Walk through rooms that once housed Jewish, Italian, Irish, and Chinese families, and listen as costumed guides bring their struggles, dreams, and recipes to life. You’ll touch the banisters, see the original wallpaper, and step onto floorboards worn by over a century of families.  The immersive tours transport you from 19th-century sweatshops to 1960s Puerto Rican kitchens. Always inclusive, always authentic—expect moving stories about survival, determination, and the everyday joys of city life. If you love connecting with NYC’s roots (and maybe shedding a tender tear or two), this is one for the memory books. Plus, since you’re just steps from bustling Orchard Street, you’re perfectly set up to segue into lunch at a classic deli or bakery right afterward.  Essex Market  For over a century, Essex Market has been the neighborhood’s place to shop, eat, and connect. Freshly modernized in a new, spacious home, this market is a maze of food stalls where New Yorkers come for everything from organic produce to Ecuadorian pastries. Stroll past artisan cheese counters, taste Colombian arepas, or snag a wedge of the city’s best baklava. There’s even a cozy area where community events and live culinary demos take place—so you can watch local chefs in action.  The market’s variety mirrors the neighborhood’s diversity: every aisle introduces you to a new flavor or specialty. We find ourselves returning for the creamy lox spread at Shopsin’s, the dream-worthy handmade pasta at Samesa, and the vegan treats at Body & Soul. Come lunch, you might be sampling Vietnamese pho one minute and New Orleans-style po’boys the next. The high-energy, communal seating guarantees you’ll rub elbows with locals, and the friendly vendors are always ready to recommend their favorite bites.  Street Art Safari  Lower East Side functions as an everchanging outdoor gallery—turn any corner and you’re likely to find a wall, mailbox, or even a sidewalk mural painted by an up-and-coming artist. Loud, expressive, and incredibly photogenic, the street art here tells the neighborhood’s story in color and pop culture references. Want to dig deeper? Join a local street art tour or simply arm yourself with a camera and wander side streets like Rivington, Ludlow, and Bowery.  On your stroll, you’ll spot works that tackle everything from hip-hop legends to social justice—sometimes tagged in a day, sometimes painstakingly planned. Long-standing murals by Shepard Fairey and Buff Monster coexist with new faces. We always recommend popping by the intersection of Houston Street and Bowery for larger-than-life commissions that rotate seasonally. To really up your game, stop by the First Street Green Art Park, where you can even contribute to community projects. Every mural comes with a story, and you’ll quickly understand why this neighborhood attracts creative minds from all over.  Russ & Daughters Café and Shop  There’s a reason food lovers—both locals and out-of-towners—make pilgrimages to Russ & Daughters. This family-run business traces its roots back more than a hundred years, when Jewish immigrants introduced NYC to a world of smoked fish, bagels, and silky schmears. Pop into the original shop on Houston Street for a classic to-go experience—the line moves fast—or settle into the charming Russ & Daughters Café nearby for a slower-paced breakfast.  Bagel platters arrive with hand-carved nova, pickled herring, and surprisingly addictive chopped liver. Try the classic "Board" with bagel, cream cheese, tomato, and their signature smoked salmon—or, if you're feeling bold, sample the super-savory caviar menu. It’s retro in the best possible way, with counters gleaming and waitstaff in traditional diner whites. The space buzzes with families, foodies snapping photos, and regulars debating the merits of sable vs. sturgeon. If you love flavor with history, this is your breakfast or brunch jackpot.  Catch a Show at Mercury Lounge  After your daytime exploring, head over to Mercury Lounge for a taste of New York’s legendary music scene. This intimate venue tucked into East Houston Street has launched careers—The Strokes, LCD Soundsystem, and Norah Jones all got their start here. The vibe is authentic, with exposed brick walls, cozy booths, and a crowd that’s passionate about discovering the next big thing.  Live music happens nearly every night of the week, cutting across all genres: rock, indie, pop, and emerging electronic acts. Tickets are affordable and the bar is well-stocked. It’s a place where you feel plugged right into the city’s creative pulse, whether you’re dancing up front or kicking back with a drink at the bar. Even if you’re not familiar with the night’s band, you’re in for an experience that captures Lower East Side’s restless, retro-modern spirit.  Museum at Eldridge Street  Calling all lovers of history, architecture, and quiet wonder—the Museum at Eldridge Street welcomes you inside a meticulously restored 19th-century synagogue that sits right in the heart of the Lower East Side. Step through the doors, and you’re greeted by soaring stained glass, intricate woodwork, and the palpable sense of community that shaped this neighborhood long before trendy cafes hit the scene. The museum weaves together stories of Jewish immigrants who gathered, worshipped, and built new lives here, and the guides are gifted storytellers who’ll take you on a journey through cultural and architectural transformations.  The showstopper is undoubtedly the dazzling rose window—a kaleidoscope of color that bathes the sanctuary in light, especially magical on a sunny afternoon. Docent-led tours combine moving accounts of families past, spirited explanations of religious customs, and a sprinkling of local gossip from the turn of the last century. Throughout the year, you’ll also find concerts, holiday tours, and hands-on activities for kids, all set within this beautifully preserved treasure. Even for those who’ve seen plenty of religious sites, the warm welcome and quiet majesty at Eldridge Street make it stand out.  Economy Candy  Chocolate coins, rainbow jelly beans, vintage sweets from nearly every decade—Economy Candy is pure joy for your inner kid (and any actual kids tagging along). Family-run since 1937, this delightfully packed shop has shelves bursting with treats from around the world. You’ll rediscover retro favorites like Charleston Chews and Bazooka gum, alongside modern craft chocolate bars and quirky NYC-themed candy tins.  The interior is an explosion of color and nostalgia with bins, barrels, and whimsical displays everywhere you turn. The staff is warm and ready with recommendations, whether you’re hunting for the sour strips your grandmother loved or wild new gummies to take home as souvenirs. It’s easy to lose track of time and even easier to walk out with a bag brimming with goodies. For an authentic Lower East Side keepsake—sweet, surprising, and a little bit old-school—Economy Candy is a must.    There you have it—NYC’s most eclectic neighborhood, served up with history, color, flavor, and a dash of downtown swagger. Whether you’re snacking on classic bagels, diving into local stories at the Tenement Museum, or dancing under the stars at The DL, Lower East Side proves that New York pulls off magic—and more than a little bit of mischief—at every turn. Trust us, you’ll leave wishing you had another day to try it all over again.    Enjoyed this? Check out travel tips from real New Yorkers, and all the other neighborhoods you should explore on your trip!    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started!    
multicolored terraced houses in nyc's famous SoHo district
Blog

SoHo & Tribeca: The Best Ways to Explore New York’s Trendiest Neighborhoods

Ready to trade Times Square crowds for cobblestone streets, creative shops, and hidden culinary gems? Make your way to SoHo and Tribeca—two downtown neighborhoods that blend New York style with bite-sized history and endless surprises. In these adjacent hotspots, you’ll stumble across cutting-edge art spaces, designer boutiques, world-class restaurants, and enough pastry shops to fuel an entire afternoon of wanderings. Whether you want to shop like a local, gallery-hop, sample pizza made by a James Beard winner, or simply find the perfect stoop for people watching, SoHo and Tribeca deliver the full downtown experience. Here’s our guide to planning an unforgettable visit.  Our favorite things to do in SoHo & Tribeca include:  SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour  Shop the boutiques  Mercer Labs  Artist’s Loft Vibes at The Drawing Center  Gallery hop through west SoHo  Café-hopping for top-tier lattes  Whitney Museum of American Art (a short walk away)  Insta-worthy architecture spotting  Dinner at Bubby’s  Tribeca Film Center  SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour  If you want a crash course in Lower Manhattan’s flavors and history, this walking tour is a must. The experience weaves through SoHo’s cast-iron storefronts, where fashion and art constantly collide, then whisks you through Little Italy’s old-school bakeries and Chinatown’s bustling food scene. Guides share legendary mob tales, secrets behind century-old buildings, and tips on which cannoli or dumpling shop really lives up to the hype. The vibe is relaxed and full of laughs—think fun anecdotes, insider trivia, and snack stops along the way. You'll end with a mental map for exploring these neighborhoods like a pro, plus personal recs from guides who truly love their turf. If you want to walk, eat, and learn all at once, nothing beats this neighborhood sampler.  Mercer Labs  Shake up your itinerary with an afternoon at Mercer Labs, a playground for lovers of modern art and tech-based creativity. This digital art museum reinvents the gallery experience: immersive rooms burst with color and motion, soundscapes wash over you, and interactive artworks let you become part of the show. It’s all housed in a sleek space right in SoHo—contemporary but inviting. The installations range from mind-bending light tunnels to VR dreams and multimedia projections. We especially like bringing friends here; no two people will agree on their favorite room, and the photos are always wild. You’ll leave buzzing with creative energy and newfound gallery cred.  Artist’s Loft Vibes at The Drawing Center  The Drawing Center is a hidden gem just a block from the boutiques, and offers a deep dive into works-on-paper from emerging and established artists. The airy, whitewashed space feels like stepping into a downtown artist’s loft, and the rotating exhibitions keep things fresh, inventive, and sometimes offbeat—in the best way. Expect thoughtful shows that spark playful conversation, plus community workshops and artist talks if your visit lines up. Art lovers will appreciate the stress-free size of the space (never overwhelming), and everyone enjoys the welcoming, creative energy.  Gallery Hop through West SoHo  For gallery explorers, west SoHo is a candyland. Once home to industrial factories, these blocks now host some of NYC’s top contemporary art spaces—think Eli Klein and C24, each showcasing talents from around the globe. Some galleries hide down long hallways or up narrow staircases, rewarding the curious. Expect everything from vibrant pop art to cutting-edge sculpture and video installations. Gallery staff almost always love talking shop, offer insights, and don’t mind questions—whether you’re a serious collector or a casual art fan. Walk slowly, pop in at whim, and keep your camera handy for surprise street murals as you go.  Café-Hopping for Top-Tier Lattes  New Yorkers take their coffee seriously, and SoHo has the baristas to prove it. Black Fox Coffee rings with the hum of laptops and friends gossiping over matcha, while La Colombe’s airy Lafayette outpost serves rich, creamy drafts in Instagram-ready mugs. If pastries are your thing, try Maman for cardamom buns or French apple tarts—both come with a side of rustic-chic decor straight out of Provence. Each café invites you to linger and people-watch or plan your next neighborhood jaunt. The staff know their beans and their regulars—ask for suggestions, and you might find your new caffeine obsession in the heart of SoHo.  Whitney Museum of American Art (a Short Walk Away)  Technically in the Meatpacking District, the Whitney sits just a pleasant 15-minute stroll from the southern tip of SoHo, making it an easy addition to your day. The museum's bold modern architecture stands out on Gansevoort Street, while inside, America’s top names in 20th- and 21st-century art take center stage. Contemporary paintings, sculpture, and photography fill light-soaked galleries with rotating blockbuster and experimental shows. Don’t miss the outdoor terraces—on a sunny afternoon, views over the Hudson pair perfectly with the art. The museum vibe is creative, not stuffy; docents and guides are happy to chat. It’s a must for culture fans with an afternoon to spare downtown.  Dinner at Bubby’s  After an action-packed day, Bubby’s in Tribeca is the comfort food destination we never skip. This laid-back, homey restaurant is known citywide for its pillowy pancakes (served all day) and farm-fresh pies straight from the oven. Dinner here might mean fried chicken, short ribs with mashed potatoes, or towering burgers topped with melted cheddar and house pickles. The real magic is the welcoming vibe: families gather for birthdays, artists nurse cold brews at the bar, and servers greet regulars by name. The décor mixes old-school Americana—think vintage booths and tiled floors—with retro neon art. Leave room for dessert: the sour cherry pie or banana cream is always worth it.  Tribeca Film Center  Movie lovers should not miss a walk by the Tribeca Film Center, the creative hub founded by Robert De Niro to celebrate New York’s cinematic spirit. While not always open to the public, it’s an atmospheric spot—especially during the Tribeca Film Festival, when stars, industry insiders, and movie buffs spill onto the neighborhood’s classic streets. If you can time your visit for festival season, catch an indie hit or documentary in cinemas nearby and spot filmmakers milling around outside. The buzz in the area is contagious, and you get a real sense of Tribeca’s creative pulse. Pop into a nearby wine bar after a screening for tales of cinema and the city.    With these picks, SoHo and Tribeca promise endless ways to explore, eat, and soak up the best of New York cool. Now you just have to decide which adventure to start first!  Enjoyed this? Check out our insider tips on the Museum of Broadway, and learn how to see NYC in a single day.    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
t rex display at the american museum of natural history
Blog

10 Reasons Kids Go Wild at American Museum of Natural History

Planning a family trip to New York and worried your youngest travelers might not love every museum on your hit list? The American Museum of Natural History is about to change your whole idea of what a museum day can be. Here, prehistoric giants stomp through grand halls, enormous whales hover overhead, and glittering treasures sit waiting to be found. Kids don’t just walk the exhibits—they roam them as wide-eyed adventurers, piecing together clues about our world from ancient fossils, meteorites, and hands-on experiments. Ready to level up your New York City itinerary with a museum that sparks giggles, wonder, and a contagious sense of curiosity? Let’s dive in!  Our top experiences at the American Museum of Natural History include:  The Hall of Dinosaurs  The Giant Blue Whale in the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life  The Rose Center for Earth and Space  The Discovery Room  Butterfly Vivarium (seasonal)  The Hall of Gems and Minerals  Our Senses: An Immersive Experience (rotates)  The Hall of North American Mammals  Fossil Preparation Lab  Dazzling Museum Store  2. The Giant Blue Whale: Awe-Inspiring Wonder in the Milstein Hall  No visit to the American Museum of Natural History is complete without the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life—and specifically the 94-foot blue whale that hangs suspended above the room. The moment you enter, the effect is magnetic. The whale’s immense size is humbling (fun fact: it’s as long as a subway train!), and somehow, despite being an inanimate model, it feels ready to dive at any moment.  Kids gather beneath with upturned faces, jaws dropped, trying to fit all that majesty into a single photo—or memory. The surrounding dioramas of ocean life put the scale of the whale in sharper relief: sharks, squid, polar bears, and penguins all star in their own lifelike habitats, inspiring classic questions (Is that walrus bigger than our family car? How many jellyfish would fit in the bathtub?).  The ambiance here is one of underwater calm meets pure wonder, with a soundtrack of gentle waves and whale songs piping through hidden speakers. The blue whale isn’t just a New York City must-visit; it’s a life-size, larger-than-life invitation to dream about the mysteries beneath the sea. If your family leaves the museum talking about ocean adventures, you’ll know why.  3. Rose Center for Earth and Space: Cosmic Exploration at Its Best  Kids naturally look up and ask, “What’s out there?” At the Rose Center for Earth and Space, the answers are as dazzling as the stars. The massive sphere that houses the Hayden Planetarium immediately transports families into the farthest corners of the universe—from exploding supernovas to the swirling clouds of Jupiter.  It’s not just the star shows (though you should absolutely catch one; these immersive journeys across the solar system leave visitors spellbound). The hands-on exhibits explain everything from the history of our planet to the formation of meteorites, using clever models, interactive touch screens, and giant meteorite samples you can actually touch.  Younger kids can piece together planetary puzzles, while older aspiring astronauts debate black holes and scan the detailed Milky Way wall. There’s even a gravity meter where you can “weigh yourself” on Mars or Jupiter. The blend of excitement and education makes this spot a hit for every age—one minute you’re shrinking to subatomic size, the next you’re soaring out to the cosmos. For families, it’s an out-of-this-world experience that anchors core science memories.  4. The Discovery Room: Hands-On Science Just for Kids  Ask any New York parent with elementary-age kids and chances are they’ll rave about the Discovery Room. Designed specifically for ages 5–12, this interactive science playground lets kids become museum “curators” themselves, handling real specimens and trying mini-lab experiments.  In the Discovery Room, kids might dig for replica fossils, peek through microscopes at snake skin scales, or solve puzzles based on the natural world. Animal skulls, touchable minerals, and even a scale model of a baobab tree are waiting for little hands and big questions. Volunteers and staff organize frequent science demos and themed sessions, so there’s always something new to investigate.  The space is intentionally cozy and colorful, with bright displays at kid-height and “mystery drawers” to open for surprises. It’s a perfect break for the moments when kids’ energy spikes and they need a break from standing still. Don’t miss this tucked-away gem: the Discovery Room proves that science is something to experience, not just read about.  6. The Hall of Gems and Minerals: A Sparkling Treasure Hunt  If there’s one exhibit that magically transforms kids into treasure hunters, it’s the Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals. Stepping into this space, your crew enters a wonderland of color and sparkle, lined with geodes the size of refrigerators and crystals that look straight out of a fairy tale.  Kids compare the shiniest, biggest, and strangest rocks, pointing out their favorites (the glowing gallery of fluorescent minerals is a beloved highlight). Interactive displays explain how gems are formed, and the rainbow assortment feels almost unreal—star sapphires, ancient gold, meteorites from space, and even the legendary 563-carat “Star of India” sapphire.  Families often linger, drawn by the magical lighting and the “can you believe this is real?” moment that comes with every new cabinet. The vibe is one part science, one part secret cavern—a rare combination that keeps all ages transfixed. If you came to the museum looking for a little sparkle, you’ll leave with memories to last for years.  7. Our Senses: Immersive Adventures in Perception (Rotates)  Kids never tire of testing their senses—which is exactly what makes the “Our Senses” experience such a family favorite. This rotating exhibit, when available, transforms everyday perception into a series of playful challenges. One room might twist your sense of balance with illusions, while another will have you guessing scents or tracking sounds behind rotating curtains.  The real magic lies in interactivity. Giant noses, odd mirrors, and clever puzzles encourage kids to experiment with what they see, hear, taste, touch, and smell. The exhibit explains how animal senses differ from our own, making each test (Can you find the hidden cricket by sound? Can you track the scent like a dog would?) a genuine adventure.  Every child, no matter their age or ability, finds something to spark curiosity. Parents enjoy watching their kids dart between stations, shouting out discoveries and testing challenges together. “Our Senses” transforms science into a game—and learning into a family quest.  8. The Hall of North American Mammals: Diorama Daydreams  What could be better than a walk through the wilds of North America—without leaving Manhattan? The Hall of North American Mammals checks all the boxes for a bit of indoor animal-spotting. Kid after kid pauses, transfixed by realistic dioramas showcasing elk, bison, wolves, and even a family of grizzly bears fishing for salmon. It’s like stepping into a living storybook, with detailed backdrops that set imaginations running wild.  Each display is finely detailed, right down to pine needles and rainy clouds, and careful lighting makes it feel like twilight or sunrise. Curious minds can quiz museum guides about animal habits, migration, and habitats—or hunt for the tiniest critters cleverly tucked into the scene.  What really sets this hall apart is its ability to slow everyone down. Families linger, pointing out favorite animals, whisper-crafting imaginary backstories, and (let’s be honest) snapping dozens of photos. For kids craving new animal facts or a chill spot to catch their breath, this hall is both peaceful and endlessly fascinating.  9. Fossil Preparation Lab: Meet the Real-Life Fossil Hunters  Kids who dream of Jurassic-sized careers always light up at the museum’s Fossil Preparation Lab. Set behind giant glass panes, this peek-behind-the-scenes space lets families watch real paleontologists at work. The tools, gloves, and mysterious bone fragments scattered around are endlessly intriguing, but the real treat is watching ancient fossils carefully cleaned and pieced together—sometimes in real time.  Young dinosaur lovers pepper guides with questions, watching as brushes and chisels reveal millions of years of history. The lab explains the painstaking process that goes into preparing those dinosaur skeletons that end up wowing the crowds in the main hall. For many, it’s their first glimpse of “real scientists at work,” and the process can be mesmerizing.  Best of all, the staff encourage questions—many even pause to explain what they’re doing or share quick facts about the latest incredible find. If you want your kids to understand that science is about exploration and never-ending discovery, a stop at the Fossil Preparation Lab is a must.  10. The Museum Store: Take a Piece of Adventure Home  Let’s be honest: at the end of any museum quest, nothing feels better than a pit stop in the gift shop. But the American Museum of Natural History store is more than a shop—it’s a playground of cool science kits, dino plushies, space puzzles, and sparkling crystals that delights explorers of every age.  Whether your kids want to bring home a T. rex model, a pocket-sized rock kit, or a star chart for their bedroom, there’s something to suit every interest and budget. Staff love helping kids choose the “perfect” fossil dig kit or glow-in-the-dark experiment. Even the books here get the kid-approval nod—with stories that turn science facts into grand adventure.  Plus, you’ll find adorable AMNH shirts, planetarium posters, explorer hats, and tote bags that make for fun and useful souvenirs. Kids love comparing their treasure haul at the café or park outside—adding the perfect finish to a day of discovery.    A visit to the American Museum of Natural History isn’t just another family outing—it’s a ticket to worlds within worlds. From the jaw-dropping size of the blue whale to moon rocks and ancient dino bones, every gallery caters to a childlike sense of discovery. With spaces to run, experiment, play, and wonder, there’s no “Don’t touch!” here—just endless invitations to look closer, ask questions, and imagine bigger. Whether your kids are budding astronauts, animal lovers, or treasure seekers, this legendary museum guarantees at least a few wow-worthy moments (and probably some lifelong memories).    Enjoyed this? Check out NYC’s best walking tours, and uncover the city’s top hidden gems.    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 

Get your free guidebook!

Plan your perfect trip with our insider guide – top attractions, itineraries and local tips straight to your inbox.