What to Do with Kids in NYC

Is New York City a good place to take children? Definitely. It is not a relaxing destination for a vacation, but there is so much to see and do you could never get bored. There are shows to see, buildings to climb, parks to explore and museums to visit. For great places to take children in NYC see my list of suggestions below.

1. Central Park: The sheer size of Central Park is almost unbelievable. Your children will love exploring the paths and rocky cliffs, chasing each other through the playgrounds, riding the carousel and petting the animals at the zoo. On a good weather day, why not hang out and have a picnic?

2. Empire State Building: Take an elevator ride to the 86^th or 102^nd floor observatories for a breath taking view. There's no better way to see New York City. The Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Centre) is also a great attraction, just less popular. If your children have cameras they will love to take pictures.

3. Museum of Natural History: This museum is definitely a great place for kids. There is a 3D space show, dinosaur skeletons and even a butterfly conservatory. What does your child weigh on Saturn? Step on the scales and find out!

4. Theme Restaurant: There are over 20, 000 restaurants in New York City. Great choices for family entertainment include Jekyll and Hyde, a spooky Halloween restaurant, Hard Rock Café, Planet Hollywood, a space-themed restaurant called Mars 2112 and a 50's diner Ellen's Stardust where the wait staff sing.

5. Broadway Play: Expose your child to the arts and see a Broadway play. Would they like Wicked, Mamma Mia!, Mary Poppins or the Lion King? Jeans are acceptable attire, snacks and drinks are permitted in the theater and booster seats are available if needed. On the day of the show you can usually buy discounted tickets at the box office.

6. Times Square: When children think of New York City they picture Times Square, the major commercial intersection at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue. Day or night, this display of animated neon and LED signs is worth seeing.

7. Statue of Liberty: To see this statue, you get to ride on a ferry. There is usually a long line for this attraction but with a New York City Pass you can skip to the front. Taking a tour of Liberty Island also gives you a great view of the NYC skyline.

8. Bus Tour: Touring New York City requires a lot of walking. Booking a bus tour on your trip will give your children a chance to relax for a while and just take in the sights. There are multiple options including a 2-hour night cruise.

9. Subway: Children love all types of transportation. If you don't have a subway in your home city, take advantage of this opportunity. Riding the subway is the fastest, cheapest and easiest way to get around NYC and young kids ride free!

10. Shopping: Even children will like shopping in NYC. Toys "R" Us has a 60-foot Ferris wheel inside the store and FAO Schwarz offers a 4000 square-foot Barbie dollhouse, life-size LEGO characters and the gigantic piano from the movie "Big". It's fun for kids of all ages!

When vacationing with children in New York City remember to stop and take breaks throughout the day. Why not eat your big meal mid-afternoon? You can avoid reservations. Walking around the city is exhausting even for adults. To keep your children happy, carry a backpack with snacks, drinks, hats and regular everyday necessities. NYC is a crazy, busy city, but your family will love it!