New York with Kids

Even for the savvy and worldly wise children of the 21st century, there are few things that can beat the look on a kid's face the first time he or she experiences the spectacle of New York City.

But with so much to potentially do and so little time to fit it all in, how can parents make good decisions on what sites and attractions will be not only affordable, but doable within a limited time frame? Here's a quick list of tips for visiting the Big Apple.

Hotels Consider the Times Square area, as there will be lots to do close by and easy access to the subway to take you to other parts of town. Research carefully to find a hotel that will allow children under 18 as guests, because some hotels, particularly those that fall into the "boutique" category, don't.

Getting There If you insist on driving into New York, expect to pay a premium for parking at your hotel. A good central parking spot is the New York Port Authority terminal on 40^th Street. If you live anywhere in the Northeastern United States, Amtrak or one of the express bus lines like Bolt or Megabus are your best options.

Planning A standout guide for sightseeing destinations combined with a kid- and parent-friendly format is Fodors Around New York City with Kids, 5^th Edition. The book is also efficient, as the writers have researched not only the destination featured, but inexpensive and kid-appropriate dining nearby each one.

Dining Few places offer as many dining options as New York City, but a precious few could truly be described as "kid friendly." A great place to pop in for a bite at several different locations throughout Manhattan is Lenny's, which features deli sandwiches and wraps prepared quickly and efficiently.

Another New York original that has since branched out is Shake Shack, with locations throughout Manhattan. Open only in the warmer months, Shake Shack's menu is classic roadside American grub, with burgers, hot dogs, fries, and shakes.

Safe Bets Though small, the Central Park Zoo offers great up-close views of the animals and can serve as the perfect gateway to a larger exploration of the park.

The Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island tour, which embarks from Battery Park in lower Manhattan, can easily take up a morning. The Times Square TKTS booth offers discount tickets to Broadway shows on the day of the performance. It's take what you can get when you reach the window, so have a couple of shows in mind that you'd be happy to see.

Though. It's almost impossible to see everything at the American Museum of Natural History or the Metropolitan Museum of Art in one visit, but an afternoon provides a great chance to see quite a bit. On the Hudson River waterfront but convenient to midtown is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, which includes tours of the namesake decommissioned aircraft carrier, as well as a great glimpse into the nation's air and space history.