Things to Do with Kids in NYC: 36 Epic Stops for Nonstop Family Fun
Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics, Wickedly green witches, and sweeping Hudson River views. Whether you’re 8 or 88, a New York City escape is always a great idea. Wondering is New York kid friendly? You better believe it!
From towering skyscrapers to sprawling parks, the magic of New York City is unmatched, especially when you’re exploring with little adventurers in tow! Whether your kids are aspiring artists, curious scientists, or just in need of a playground pit stop, NYC offers a treasure trove of unforgettable family experiences.
As you embark on this urban adventure, our curated list of things to do with kids in NYC will make sure every moment is packed with joy, learning, and, of course, a dash of Big Apple wonder!
Indoor Attractions: Great for Rainy Days or Hot Weather!
When the weather outside is less than inviting, New York City boasts a medley of indoor fun things to do with kids. From whimsical play spaces to thrilling educational escapes, there’s always a world of adventure waiting just inside the doors!
American Museum of Natural History: Dinosaurs, space shows, and a giant blue whale suspended from the ceiling—this museum is four city blocks of non-stop “whoa!” moments. Don’t miss the Rose Center for Earth and Space for a planetarium show that’ll make your kids feel like mini astronauts. Find it at 200 Central Park West, right across from Central Park.
Pro Tip: Enter through 81st Street to skip the longer line at the front.
SPYSCAPE: Kids get to test their spy skills with laser mazes, lie detectors, and code-breaking games—then find out what kind of agent they’d be. It’s basically a spy movie come to life. Just a few blocks from Central Park at 928 8th Ave.
Madame Tussauds New York: Strike a pose with Spider-Man, Beyoncé, and the Avengers in this wax celeb playground. There’s even a Marvel 4D movie with wind, water, and sound effects that’ll make you flinch. Right in the middle of Times Square at 234 W 42nd.
The Intrepid Museum: Walk the deck of a real aircraft carrier, peek inside a Cold War sub, and check out a legit space shuttle. It’s hands-on, it’s massive, and it’s right on the Hudson River at Pier 86, W 46th St.
Related Post: This One Central Park Experience Feels Straight Out of a Movie
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: It’s shiny, it’s sky-high, and it’s got mirrored floors you’ll probably crawl across (don’t worry, you’re not the only one). With glass ledges over Madison Ave and silver balloons floating in giant rooms, this is not your average observatory. Entrance is at 45 E 42nd.
Pro Tip: Skip the skirts—it’s mirrors everywhere—and wear comfy shoes.
Nickelodeon Universe at American Dream: SpongeBob, slime, and indoor roller coasters? Yes, please! This theme park has characters, thrill rides, and it’s all inside—no weather worries. Head to 1 American Dream Way, East Rutherford, NJ.
DreamWorks Water Park: Right next to Nickelodeon Universe, this tropical indoor paradise stays a sunny 81°F year-round. With giant slides, wave pools, and Shrek-themed splash zones, it’s every water-loving kid’s dream. Also at 1 American Dream Way.
Pro Tip: Cabanas are worth it if you’re staying all day, especially with little ones.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Located in both Yonkers and inside American Dream, these LEGO wonderlands have rides, a 4D cinema, and build zones where kids can go wild. Great for ages 3–10. Check out 39 Fitzgerald St (Yonkers) or 1 American Dream Way (NJ).
Mercer Labs: Think glowing tunnels, sound-reactive walls, and rooms that feel like you’re inside a video game. Teens will love it, but toddlers might be confused. It’s located downtown at 21 Dey St.
Related Post: These NYC Summer Hangouts Will Save You From the Heat
The Lion King / Aladdin / Harry Potter on Broadway: Big costumes, flying carpets, and magic spells come to life at these epic, kid-approved shows!
iFLY Indoor Skydiving: Talk about fun things to do in NYC with kids! You suit up, float in a wind tunnel, and literally feel like you’re flying. It’s thrilling but safe, perfect for brave kids and even braver parents. Choose Queens (10-4 20th Ave) or Yonkers (849 Ridge Hill Blvd).
The RIDE: This isn’t just a tour—it’s a moving theater on wheels with comedians, dancers, and surprise performances on the sidewalks of NYC. The bus has sideways seats and floor-to-ceiling windows so you won’t miss a thing. It departs from 259 W 42nd.
RiseNY: Part museum, part ride—you’ll walk through NYC’s cultural history, then hop into a “flying theater” that lifts you off the ground and over a virtual cityscape. It’s high-tech and surprisingly moving. Right near Times Square at 160 W 45th.
Radio City Music Hall Tour: Take a backstage peek at this legendary venue—learn how the Rockettes prep, see the glamorous art deco interiors, and maybe even walk across the Great Stage. The tour kicks off at 1260 6th Ave (right by Rockefeller Center).
Pro Tip: Around the holidays, pair it with tickets to the Christmas Spectacular for a full day of festive fun.
Outdoor Attractions Perfect for Sunny Days
When the sun shines brightly over NYC, it’s time to head outdoors for some unforgettable family fun! Whether it’s exploring parks, picnicking by the river, or discovering hidden gems, New York City is bursting with exciting adventures for you and your kids.
Central Park Bike Tours: Pedal your way through one of the most iconic parks in the world! You’ll pass the Alice in Wonderland statue, Bethesda Fountain, and maybe even spot a turtle in the pond. Tours usually start at 56 W 56th or near Columbus Circle—super easy to find.
Luna Park at Coney Island: This place is a blast from the past with classic rides, carnival games, and that legendary Cyclone roller coaster. It’s steps from the beach and the boardwalk, so you can do sandcastles and scream your head off on a coaster in one afternoon. You’ll find it at 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Cruises: Board the ferry from Battery Park and sail straight toward Lady Liberty herself. The views of Manhattan from the boat are next-level, and exploring Ellis Island is a cool way to walk through history. Ferries leave from Castle Clinton at Battery Park.
Related Post: These Ice Cream Spots in NYC Are Almost Too Good to Share
Brooklyn Bridge Bike Tours: You haven’t truly “done” NYC until you’ve biked across the Brooklyn Bridge with the wind in your face and skyline views on both sides. Tours usually include fun stops in DUMBO and along the East River too. Rentals and tours start near City Hall Park, Manhattan side of the bridge.
Top of the Rock / One World Observatory / Edge NYC: All three observation decks serve up amazing views, but each has its own vibe. Top of the Rock (30 Rockefeller Plaza) is closest to Central Park views, One World (117 West St) feels like flying over downtown, and Edge (30 Hudson Yards) juts out into the air.
City Climb at Edge NYC: This one’s for the daredevils! Strap into a harness and climb the outside of one of NYC’s tallest buildings. At 1,200 feet up, you’ll literally lean out over the city. It all happens at 30 Hudson Yards. Remember, teens must meet height/weight minimums, so check ahead before hyping it up to the kids!
The Beast Speedboat Ride: Think roller coaster… on water. This 30-minute thrill ride zips you down the Hudson and gives you a splashy, fast view of the Statue of Liberty. Departs from Pier 83, W 42nd and 12th Ave.
Free (or Donation-Based) Things To Do in New York With Kids
Stroll through Central Park: If you’re looking for classic things to do in NYC with kids, Central Park is a must. Kids can climb giant rocks, race through playgrounds, or explore Belvedere Castle like little adventurers. It’s a peaceful break from the city’s pace and perfect for spontaneous picnics or scooter rides.
Explore the High Line: This elevated walkway runs from Gansevoort Street to 34th and is filled with gardens, murals, and kid-sized benches for snack breaks. It’s a great place to let kids walk safely above the streets and spot trains, rivers, and funky sculptures along the way.
Visit Times Square: For a true New York City with kids moment, head to Times Square and watch their faces light up. The massive screens, street performers, and hustle are wild in the best way. Just keep your group close and be ready for spontaneous superhero selfies.
Play at Pier 6 Playground (Brooklyn Bridge Park): One of the best playgrounds in NYC, and arguably among the top things to do with kids in New York, this spot has everything from water zones to zip lines and even a mini rock climbing area. It’s right by the East River in Brooklyn Heights and gives kids space to run, jump, and cool off while you relax with skyline views.
Pro Tip: Bring a towel or change of clothes in summer—kids will want to get soaked.
Check out the NY Public Library (Children’s Room): Visit the main branch on 5th Avenue and discover the original Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals behind glass. The children’s room is cozy and charming, filled with storybook corners and shelves that feel like they go on forever.
Related Post: This Is the Spot Every Disney Fan Needs to Visit in New York
Ride the Staten Island Ferry: This free ride is one of the easiest fun things to do in New York with kids. You’ll cruise past the Statue of Liberty and soak in skyline views without spending a dime. Depart from the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan for a breezy round trip.
Pro Tip: Stand on the right side of the ferry on your way out for the best Statue views.
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge: Let the kids walk or scoot across this iconic span and see New York from a whole new angle. It connects Manhattan and Brooklyn with wide pedestrian paths and unbeatable skyline views.
Window shop at FAO Schwarz or the LEGO Store: Two of the best indoor kids activities NYC has to offer without needing to spend a cent. Try the giant floor piano at FAO Schwarz in Rockefeller Plaza or build mini-sets at the LEGO Store just steps away. They’re both magical stops for kids of all ages.
Visit the Bronx Zoo on Wednesdays: On Wednesdays, you can explore one of the world’s top zoos on a pay-what-you-wish basis. It’s a full day of animal encounters, nature trails, and hands-on fun at a budget-friendly price. Make sure to reserve your free timed tickets in advance to make sure you get in.
Take in street performers in Washington Square Park: From bubble artists and jazz trios to chess players and magicians, this Greenwich Village park is always buzzing with free entertainment. Not only is it among the best things to do with kids NYC, but it’s also a great way to introduce kids to the creative side of the city while chilling near the iconic arch.
Kids Activities NYC FAQs
Is New York Ok for Kids?
Yes, New York is absolutely kid-friendly and offers plenty of safe, exciting experiences for families. Manhattan is very safe, with well-patrolled tourist areas, reliable public transportation, and tons of parks, playgrounds, and attractions designed for children. From museums and zoos to bike paths and Broadway shows, NYC is full of things to do with kids.
Is New York Fun With Toddlers?
Yes, New York can be a great city to explore with toddlers. There are interactive museums, stroller-friendly parks, play fountains, and plenty of indoor play spaces for little ones to enjoy. New York is child-friendly, offering family restrooms in most major attractions, kid-friendly dining spots, and activities designed for younger visitors across the city.
Want To Save More Bucks on Your NYC Trip?
At Tripster, we make planning your New York City adventure easy and affordable with discounted deals on NYC hotels, attractions, shows, and vacation packages. You’ll find more things to do with kids, exclusive deals, and even bundled experiences to help you save while you explore.
Don’t forget to check out our handy NYC travel guide—it’s packed with insider tips, hidden gems, and fun ideas the whole family will love!
Did We Miss Anything?
Let us know your suggestions for fun things to do in New York City with kids in the comments below!
