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The Best of New York · With kids · Things to do with kids

The best things to do in New York City with kids

Updated September 2026. 14 places.

Visiting New York City with kids is no easy task (mostly thanks to the inevitable crowds). But, if you manage to pull it off, you’ll find yourself immensely rewarded, these memories will last a lifetime! As a 10-year local, I wanted to provide a list of my favorite things to do with kids in NYC. I’ll include some budget options, as well as a few places that are worth the price of admission. Let’s dive right in!

Planning a show? Here’s our guide to the 7 Best Broadway Shows for Kids in New York City (2025 Guide).

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best things to do in New York City with kids, 2026

  1. American Museum of Natural HistoryMuseum · Upper West SidePro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.
  2. Broadway Show (via TKTS booth)Theater · Times SquareI scored $100 tickets to Aladdin a few weeks ago and my friend’s 5 year old was at the edge of her seat the entire night.
  3. Bryant Park (Movies in the Park)Park · Midtown ManhattanThere’s no better way to end a summer evening in New York City with kids than by watching a movie in the park.
  4. Central Park (and the Zoo)Park · Central ParkWe can’t talk about the best things to do in New York City with kids without mentioning the masterpiece that is Central Park.
  5. FAO SchwarzStore · Midtown Manhattan
  6. Harry Potter StoreStore · Midtown ManhattanSo, I wasn’t expecting much when I paid a visit to the Harry Potter Store and yet I found myself thoroughly impressed.
  7. New York Transit MuseumMuseum · BrooklynLocated in Brooklyn, this one of the most fun actives in NYC for kids.
  8. NYC FerryOther · DUMBO / Financial DistrictThe NYC ferry is a true crowd-pleaser and a great way to rest your legs while taking in the epic skyline of the Big Apple.
  9. Roosevelt Island TramOther · Roosevelt IslandThe views of NYC from the Roosevelt Island tram are some of the best in the city.
  10. Statue of LibertyLandmark · New York HarborI can’t think of a single movie (or show) filmed in NYC that doesn’t include the Statue of Liberty.
  11. The High LinePark · Chelsea
  12. The Lego StoreStore · Midtown ManhattanThere’s also impressive life-sized Lego creations throughout the store that are guaranteed to keep your kids entertained for a while.
  13. Top of the Rock Observation DeckLandmark · Midtown ManhattanThis a fun New York City activity for kids and I guarantee you won’t forget the experience anytime soon.

On the map

Where they are

10 neighborhoods, Midtown Manhattan and Upper West Side most of all.

Midtown Manhattan

Brooklyn

Central Park

Chelsea

DUMBO

DUMBO / Financial District

New York Harbor

Roosevelt Island

Times Square

Upper West Side

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15+ EPIC Things to Do in New York City With Kids.