The New York experiences every kid should have

There’s something undeniably magical about seeing the Statue of Liberty from the water, and the Staten Island Ferry is one of the best—and free—ways to do it. The ride takes about 25 minutes each way and offers front-row views of Lady Liberty that feel straight out of a movie.

The best part? No ticket fees, no timed entry, no crowds to wrangle. Just a salty breeze, a skyline view, and your kid shouting “There she is!” from the deck. Pro tip: Grab a pretzel at the ferry terminal on your way back.

There’s nothing like the feeling of walking across the Brooklyn Bridge—until you reach DUMBO and spot the carousel spinning by the water. That’s the moment it turns into a core memory.

Jane’s Carousel is a beautifully restored 1922 wooden carousel set inside a glass pavilion. It’s one of the most photogenic, nostalgic, and joy-filled experiences you can have in the city. The ride costs a couple of dollars, the views are free, and the giggles are priceless.

For every kid who’s ever roared like a T. rex or built a volcano out of baking soda, this museum delivers. The American Museum of Natural History is huge, but even a quick visit to the dinosaur hall leaves a lasting impression.

There’s something about standing under the towering skeleton of a Titanosaur that makes kids feel tiny in the best possible way. Don’t miss the life-sized blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life. My kid gasped the first time he saw it—and honestly, I did too.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in summer, check the calendar for movie nights at Bryant Park or Brooklyn Bridge Park. Families camp out on blankets, the lawn opens at five, and the screen flickers on at sunset. The air smells like popcorn, everyone claps for the previews, and the city hums around you.

Even if your kid doesn’t make it through the whole movie, the experience of lying on the grass under a glowing skyline is pure New York magic. And as a parent? It’s one of the few moments where you get to relax, too.

Is there anything more New York than walking down the street with a slice of pizza bigger than your head? You don’t need to track down the “best” slice in the city—any neighborhood spot will do. Just make sure it’s thin crust, hot, and comes on a paper plate.

Teach your kid how to fold it in half (this is serious New Yorker business), and enjoy the rare mealtime where no one complains. Bonus points: Follow it up with a $1 soft-serve from a Mister Softee truck in the summer.

Katz’s Delicatessen is an old-school Jewish Deli, and even kids who are picky eaters will be intrigued by the bustling vibe, the piled-high sandwiches, and the trays of pickles.

The pastrami is legendary, no doubt—but the experience is what makes it unforgettable. Show them how to hold a ticket, order at the counter, and find a table amid the chaos. It’s a lesson in city life (and patience).

Central Park is a New York rite of passage for all ages, but for kids, it’s practically a wonderland. From the giant rocks perfect for climbing to the whimsical playgrounds and wide meadows, there’s space to be wild—or take a nap while mom drinks a coffee from a shady bench.

If your child’s awake, don’t miss the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, or a sailboat spin at the Conservatory Water. If they’re asleep, enjoy the rare moment of peace and let the city fade into the background.

This one always surprises people: there’s an actual aerial tramway in New York City, and it costs the same as a subway ride. The Roosevelt Island Tram floats over the East River, giving you incredible skyline views and a totally different perspective of Manhattan.

It’s short—just four minutes—but thrilling. On the other side, you can explore the quiet island and visit Four Freedoms Park, which feels like a whole other world from midtown.

Tip Bring snacks and let your kid run along the riverfront.

The legendary toy store at Rockefeller Plaza is as magical now as it was when I was a kid. From the doorman in uniform to the floor piano from Big, FAO Schwarz is pure theatrical retail joy.

Let your child wander a bit. Let them build a custom doll, marvel at life-sized plush animals, or spend twenty minutes playing with toy trains. You might not leave empty-handed, but you’ll leave with memories—and maybe a souvenir that doesn’t light up or make noise (we can dream).

Not every iconic NYC moment is big and flashy. Some are slow, cozy, and filled with little discoveries. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is a neighborhood favorite that’s been around since 1899—and it’s one of the best places to let kids explore at their own pace.

World Brooklyn, the museum’s pretend cityscape, is a hit with toddlers and preschoolers. They can shop at a kid-sized bodega, bake pretend pizza, and work the register at a tiny boutique. It’s play with a purpose—and a great place to spend a rainy or chilly morning.