Tips for Traveling with Kids in Manhattan, United States
1. Central Park Zoo
A charming zoo in the heart of Manhattan with a petting zoo and a children's zoo, perfect for hands-on animal encounters.
- Variety of Animals: Offers a diverse collection of animals from around the world
- Child-friendly Activities: Provides interactive exhibits and educational programs designed for children
- Central Location: Located in Central Park, making it easy to combine with other park activities
2. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Explore historic aircrafts, ships, and spacecrafts at this unique museum on Pier 86. Kids will love the interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on activities for kids to learn about aviation and space exploration
- Iconic Ships: Features the USS Intrepid, a retired aircraft carrier, and the Concorde SST
- Outdoor Spaces: Includes outdoor spaces for picnics and enjoying Manhattan's harbor views
3. New York Public Library
Discover one of the world's greatest libraries. Kids can enjoy story hours, exhibits, and activities.
- Story Hours: Offers daily story times for young readers
- Exhibits: Features rotating exhibitions on various topics, often appealing to children
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases a stunning Beaux-Arts building design
4. American Museum of Natural History
Explore the wonders of nature and the universe at this iconic museum. The dinosaur fossils are a must-see for kids.
- Dinosaur Fossils: Features one of the most comprehensive collections of dinosaur fossils in the world
- Planetarium Shows: Offers daily shows at the Hayden Planetarium
- Rotating Exhibits: Regularly updates exhibitions to keep content fresh and engaging
5. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour
Experience the iconic Statue of Liberty and learn about America's history at Ellis Island. Kid-friendly tours are available.
- Historical Significance: Offers a unique opportunity to learn about immigration history
- Kid-friendly Tours: Provides tours tailored for children with interactive activities and stories
- Ferry Ride: Includes a fun ferry ride across New York Harbor
6. New York Botanical Garden
Discover over 1 million plants in this beautiful urban oasis. The Enid A. Haupt Conservatory and children's garden are must-sees.
- Enid A. Haupt Conservatory: Features a stunning glasshouse with tropical plants, palms, and flowers
- Children's Adventure Garden: Offers interactive exhibits and play areas designed for kids
- Seasonal Events: Hosts family-friendly events throughout the year, such as Halloween and holiday light shows
7. Circus Wagyu: Kids' Circus
Let your kids experience the magic of the circus at this kid-friendly show featuring acrobats, jugglers, and clowns.
- Interactive Performances: Allows children to participate in some acts during the performance
- Small Audience: Offers an intimate setting with a smaller audience, making it less overwhelming for kids
- Central Location: Located near Times Square, making it easy to combine with other Manhattan activities
8. Madame Tussauds New York
Meet your favorite celebrities and historical figures in this world-famous wax museum.
- Celebrity Wax Figures: Features lifelike replicas of well-known celebrities and historical figures
- Interactive Exhibits: Includes interactive experiences, such as singing with Ariana Grande or posing with Marvel superheroes
- Special Events: Hosts themed events and exhibitions throughout the year, such as Halloween and Christmas displays
9. Ripleys Believe It or Not! Times Square
Explore the bizarre and fascinating at this unique museum filled with oddities and exhibits.
- Oddities and Exhibits: Features strange artifacts, interactive experiences, and amazing feats
- Interactive Activities: Includes activities like taking a photo with a two-headed snake or attempting to lift a replica of the world's heaviest paperclip
- Central Location: Located in Times Square, making it easy to combine with other Manhattan attractions
10. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Enjoy breathtaking views of Manhattan from three observation decks at the top of the iconic Rockefeller Center.
- Panoramic Views: Offers unobstructed views of Manhattan, including Central Park and the Empire State Building
- Indoor and Outdoor Observation Decks: Includes both indoor and outdoor observation decks, allowing for year-round enjoyment
- Nighttime Views: Provides stunning nighttime views of the city's iconic lights
11. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Cruises
Embark on a memorable adventure with a cruise around New York Harbor. Choose from various options, including a Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island tour.
- Scenic Cruise: Offers a scenic tour of Manhattan's harbor and its iconic landmarks
- Historical Commentary: Provides informative commentary on the area's history and points of interest
- Kid-friendly Options: Offers child-friendly cruises, such as the Spray Cruise for younger kids
12. Fairy Tale Forest at the Bronx Zoo
Step into a magical world of fairy tales at this whimsical children's play area within the Bronx Zoo.
- Whimsical Play Area: Features sculptures and play areas inspired by classic fairy tales
- Animal Encounters: Surrounded by various animals and exhibits at the Bronx Zoo
- Central Location within the Zoo: Located near the Children's Zoo, making it easy to combine with other zoo activities
13. Mad. Sq. Art Kids' Workshops
Let your kids create their own artwork at these free workshops held in Madison Square Park.
- Creative Activities: Offers various art projects and activities for children
- Free Workshops: Provides free workshops, making it affordable for families
- Central Location: Located in Madison Square Park, close to other Manhattan attractions
14. Kidville PlaySpace
Let your kids burn off energy at this indoor play area designed specifically for children.
- Indoor Play Area: Offers a safe and clean indoor space for children to play and enjoy
- Variety of Activities: Features age-appropriate activities, slides, ball pits, and more
- Central Location: Located in Union Square, close to other Manhattan attractions
15. Tiny Tot Tuesdays at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Introduce your little ones to art at this special program designed for kids under five at the world-renowned MoMA.
- Early Art Introduction: Provides a unique opportunity for young children to engage with art
- Interactive Activities: Offers hands-on activities and storytelling sessions related to the museum's collections
- World-Renowned Museum: Located at the Museum of Modern Art, exposing kids to famous art pieces