Moonpreneur
Are you looking for fun things to do with your family in New York City? Well, look no further! The city is full of modern and historic spots that are a source of pride for the locals.
You and your kids will love visiting places like the Harry Potter Store and Central Park, where you can have a great time and learn something new.
Recommended Reading: Why Should Parents Take Their Children to the Museum of Illusion, New York?
And the best part? You don’t have to spend a fortune! There are plenty of budget-friendly options that will keep your family entertained.
So, let’s explore the five best things to do with kids in NYC!
1. Harry Potter Store:
If your child is a Harry Potter enthusiast, visiting the Harry Potter Store in New York City is an absolute must!
The Wizarding World-themed store offers many exclusive products and interactive experiences that will mesmerize your child. As soon as you enter the store’s main entrance on Fifth Avenue, you’ll be greeted by a Fawkes, which sets the magical tone for your visit to Harry Potter New York.
From Ministry Phone Box to Artium of Awe, there’s so much to explore in the store.
Your child can immerse themselves in the world of Harry Potter and choose their very own magic wand. The store is home to the most extensive collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts products under one roof, offering a wide range of toys and games that will keep your child entertained for hours. Of course, there a photo opportunities too.
So, if you’re planning quality time with your child, be sure to visit the Harry Potter Store and make unforgettable memories!
Website: https://www.harrypotterstore.com/
Timings
Monday–Saturday: 9M–9 PM
Sunday: 9 AM–7 PM
2. Exploring Central Park:
Central Park in Manhattan, New York City, is a must-visit destination for families with children. Spanning over 840 acres, it is one of the largest parks in the city and has a rich history.
In the 1840s, as urbanization peaked, poet-editor William Cullen Bryant and landscape architect Andrew Jackson Downing called for a new park to be built on the island. Central Park was officially opened in 1876, becoming a center of attraction for locals and tourists alike.
The park offers a diverse range of activities for families to explore, such as walking through scenic vistas, visiting the Metropolitan Museum of Art, skating on ice rinks, and playing in athletic fields and children’s playgrounds.
Take advantage of the opportunity to climb the Belvedere Castle and enjoy the breathtaking views.
The Central Park Zoo is also a popular spot for kids who love animals. With so much to see and do, Central Park is a fantastic destination for families to create unforgettable memories.
Website: https://www.centralparknyc.org/
Timings: 365 days a year from 6 AM to 1 AM
3. Walking the High Line:
In NYC, walking along the High Line with your kids is a must-do activity. This unique public space opened in 2009 and spans approximately 1.45 miles.
It’s a great way to spend your time in the city, with a quick stroll taking just 30 minutes or a more leisurely pace allowing you to explore for an hour or more. Before a High Line was conceived, the area would be utilized for an elevated rail line for cargo trains.
The best time to visit the High Line is in summer or spring when all the plants bloom. One can see unique art, beautiful murals, and rotating sculptures here. The kids can also enjoy visiting Chelsea Market, where you can find several interesting restaurants and shops.
Website: https://www.thehighline.org/
Timings: Monday-Sunday, 7 AM-10 PM
4. Walking the Brooklyn Bridge:
The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-visit historic site in NYC, connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn across the East River.
Built in 1883, it was the world’s longest suspension bridge and remains one of the oldest in the country. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is a free and exciting adventure for kids and adults alike.
There are several starting points for your walk, and one of the best is the intersection of Tillary Street and Boerum Place on the Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
The walk is approximately 1.1 miles long and takes about 20-30 minutes. The bridge also offers options for driving or biking across it. Once you reach the other side, head to DUMBO, a trendy neighborhood with plenty of photo opportunities.
Website: https://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/places-to-see/brooklyn-bridge/
Timings: 365 days
5. Visit FAO Schwarz:
Dating back to 1862, this is one of the oldest toy stores in the country, and it was the brainchild of Frederick August Otto Schwarz, who envisioned an extraordinary emporium filled with unique toys from all over the world.
Today, catering to ages newborn to 14 years and above, the store has become a household name for families with kids, earning a reputation as one of the must-visit destinations in NYC.
It offers a variety of interactive experiences, setting it apart from the rest, including the chance to participate in activities such as Barbie Styled by You, Elmo Monster Factory, Build Your RC, FAO Schwarz Baby Doll Adoption Agency, and Funko Monster Factory.
What makes this toy store truly special is its ability to spark children’s imaginations, with countless toys and activities to prove it. Although the original location closed in 2008, the store has found a new home in a 20,000-square-foot facility at Rockefeller Plaza.
Website: https://faoschwarz.com/
Timings: Open Daily 10 AM – 7 PM
Conclusion
New York City has plenty of options for family activities. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors or stay inside, the possibilities are endless! Apart from the top five, you can visit iconic attractions like the Empire State Building or catch a kid-friendly Broadway show.
With so much to do, you and your family will never be bored in the Big Apple.
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