admin11 Things to do when you visit New York City!
New York, the city that never sleeps, the ultimate citytrip destination for many. There are so many things to do in New York, when you travel with your kids but also when you go for a citytrip with family or friends. We just returned from our 3rd city trip in this vibrant city and still I am not at the end of my list of everything I want to see and do here. But I am happy to list the highlights for you!
New York isn’t a cheap place to go to. If you are planning to visit a lot of the popular attractions with your kids a City Pass is a must! The easiest way to get around is by metro. New York has a good metro system that isn’t too difficult to understand. The city can be busy and crowded, here you read some tips how to handle and avoid tourist traps!
Are you looking for more citytrips with your kids? Read more about Lisbon, Prague, Rome and Stockholm.
Central Park – A Green Oasis in the Heart of NYC
This 4 km long park is a true classic — you’ve probably seen it countless times in movies and TV shows. And while some famous hotspots can be a bit underwhelming in real life, Central Park definitely lives up to the hype.
There’s so much green right in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. You can take a peaceful stroll, grab a hot dog from one of the typical street stalls, go ice skating in winter, or simply relax on a bench and soak up the atmosphere. Watch squirrels darting around for crumbs, dog walkers juggling a dozen leashes, kids playing, or joggers and fitness fans getting their daily dose of movement.
Ferry to Staten Island
Let’s be honest — New York is an expensive city. But every now and then, you get an unexpected gift. The Staten Island Ferry is one of those little gems. It takes you across the bay from Manhattan to Staten Island, completely free of charge.
Along the way, you’ll pass Governors Island and Ellis Island, and sail right past the Statue of Liberty — perfect for snapping a close-up photo without paying for an expensive tour.
Once on Staten Island, you can go for a walk, enjoy stunning views of the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, and grab a bite to eat. It’s a simple and budget-friendly way to experience another side of the city. Did you know that the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is the start of the iconic New York Marathon?
Ellis Island
Ellis Island, located in New York Bay, served as the main immigration station in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Millions of people passed through here, hoping to build a better life in the United States. Today, the island stands as a powerful symbol of the American Dream.
At the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration, you’ll learn about the experiences of the immigrants who arrived here — often after long and difficult journeys. You can even search the archives to find out if any of your ancestors passed through these doors.
Besides the history, Ellis Island also offers a beautiful view of the Manhattan skyline. Ferries to Ellis Island depart from downtown Manhattan and are often combined with a visit to the Statue of Liberty — though we skipped that part because it was far too crowded for our taste!
Ground Zero – One World Trade Center
This is a place that leaves you silent, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth. The 2001 attacks left a deep collective trauma, and the memorial here honors that movingly and respectfully. On the exact spots where the Twin Towers once stood, you’ll now find two striking memorial pools. Serene, yet powerful reminders of what happened.
Right next to the memorial is the Oculus, a building with eye-catching architecture. Every time you walk in, it delivers that instant wow effect. Designed to resemble a white dove being released from a child’s hands, the Oculus is both symbolic and functional. It houses a shopping center and a major transportation hub.
And then there’s One World Trade Center, the centerpiece of the rebuilt complex. Designed by David Childs, it’s the tallest building in the United States (451 meters), the tallest in the Western Hemisphere, and the seventh-tallest in the world. The name is no coincidence — it shares its name with the North Tower of the original World Trade Center.
At the top, on the 100th floor, you’ll find the One World Observatory, offering panoramic views of New York City. It’s the perfect spot to take in the vastness of the skyline — and yes, you can also grab a bite to eat while you’re up there.
Roosevelt Island
Here’s another great activity that won’t cost you extra: take the Roosevelt Island Tram — it’s included with your MetroCard! Gliding high above the East River, you’ll get a completely new perspective of the Manhattan skyline. In just a few minutes, you’ll find yourself in an unexpected oasis of calm.
At the southern tip of the island lies the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a beautifully designed tribute to Roosevelt’s famous speech and a peaceful spot to take in views of the city, the river, and the UN building across the water.
You can return to Manhattan the same way — by tram — or hop on the subway if you’re in a rush. But if you have the time, take the ferry back for a scenic ride with more skyline views. A perfect mix of serenity and city energy!
High Line, A Park Above the City
The High Line is a unique elevated urban park in Manhattan. This unique spot is located in the heart of the Chelsea neighborhood. It is built on the old tracks of the West Side Line, a former freight rail line of the New York Central Railroad.
The railway had been abandoned for years when a group of local residents came up with a visionary idea. They wanted to transform the overgrown tracks into a park, inspired by the Promenade Plantée in Paris. The New York City Council embraced the concept and allocated $50 million, and so, the High Line was born.
Stretching 2.3 kilometers (1.45 miles) from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards, the High Line gives you a peaceful green escape above the buzzing city. As you stroll along, you’ll pass public art installations, urban gardens, and some of Manhattan’s most striking modern architecture.
It’s also one of the top things to do in New York with kids. They’ll love walking above the streets, spotting the art, and exploring the gardens and lookout points along the way.
It’s a place where locals relax, visitors take in the views, and the city’s creativity comes to life — all while walking on what was once a train track.
Bike tour
A bustling metropolis like New York City might not seem like the most obvious place for a relaxing bike tour — but nothing could be further from the truth. Cycling is actually a great way to explore more of the city in less time, and it’s surprisingly enjoyable, even with kids.
One of the best things to do in New York with kids is to rent bikes and head to Brooklyn, where you can enjoy scenic rides along the East River and through Brooklyn Bridge Park. This area offers wide paths, waterfront views, and playgrounds, perfect for a family outing. BajaBikes offer special bike tours for families with kids.
As for the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, cyclists must use the designated bike lane alongside the car traffic. But if you want to experience the famous wooden pedestrian path, simply walk your bike across and take in the stunning skyline views — a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
Little Island
Little Island is one of New York’s most imaginative and unique public parks. The park opened in May 2022. This urban oasis floats above the Hudson River and is open daily for visitors. Located at Pier 55 in Hudson River Park, it’s just a short walk from the High Line and Chelsea Market, making it easy to combine with other top attractions in the area.
What makes Little Island truly remarkable is its design. The park is supported by concrete piles, topped with 132 distinct “tulips”, each shaped differently to support various parts of the landscape, including lawns, trees, and scenic overlooks. The remains of the original Pier 54 have even been preserved below to provide a habitat for aquatic life.
This elevated green space offers rolling hills, winding pathways, seasonal gardens, and stunning views of Manhattan and the river, creating a unique blend of nature and art. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk, a picnic, or simply to unwind in the middle of the city.
One of the most creative things to do in New York with kids, Little Island invites visitors of all ages to experience a park like no other — playful, innovative, and inspiring.
Observation decks, one of the things you have to do in New York with kids!
Floating high above the city on one of New York’s observation decks is truly a breathtaking experience. Even if you’re not entirely at ease standing on the 100th floor of a skyscraper (like me!), it’s still an absolute must-do. The views are unforgettable, the city stretches endlessly in every direction, and suddenly all that hustle and bustle feels far away.
There are several fantastic options for sky-high views:
The Summit One Vanderbilt
spectacular, unsurpassed, but also pricey. What to expect here: lots of glass: the windows, the floors, the ceilings, you will be able to enjoy this wow feeling for a long time!
The One World observatory deck
The tallest building in the city, what to expect: enjoying a unique view with a snack or a drink, Lady Liberty is just a little doll located far below you!
The Edge
Located in the new Hudson bay neighborhood. What to expect: you are outside here on a platform which protrudes from the building, there is a piece of glass floor on the platform, maybe a glass of champagne here can help for your buckling knees! Also, here you can dangle in a harness on a cable briefly above the city (for $100 extra)
Empire State Building
A true classic! What to expect: pure nostalgia, how many times have you seen this place in movies?
Top of the Rock
At Rockefeller Center, What to expect? On the 70th floor you have a beautiful 360° view of Manhattan. Maybe not the most spectacular point, but a very charming one, located in the middle of Manhattan you have a nice view of all the famous places of the city!
Practical Tip: I’m not going to mention exact prices here, as they can vary depending on the season and time of day. Around sunset, for example, tickets are often more expensive. Some observation decks are included in the New York CityPASS or other discount passes, so it’s definitely worth comparing options and checking for special deals in advance.
MOMA
New York is home to several world-class museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). MoMA is one of the largest and most influential modern art museums in the world. It has masterpieces by Van Gogh, Matisse, and Warhol, as well as fascinating photography, architecture, and design collections. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and surprisingly engaging even for kids, making it one of the more cultural things to do in New York with kids.
Although the popular free Friday night is now only available to New York residents, admission is often included in various city passes, so be sure to check in advance. Don’t forget to visit the peaceful sculpture garden. This spot is especially beautiful at sunset and a great spot to relax after your museum visit.
Williamsburg
Williamsburg, New York is Brooklyn’s trendiest neighborhood, known for its creative energy and cozy vibe. With its industrial charm, the area is filled with stylish boutiques, vintage shops, artisan coffee bars, food markets, and a rich mix of cultural influences.
It’s a true paradise for vintage lovers, coffee enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys exploring offbeat, artsy neighborhoods. Williamsburg invites you to slow down and discover its many hidden gems. Whether you’re wandering through secondhand stores, tasting local bites at a weekend market, or just soaking up the atmosphere in a café.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is New York’s main train station. With 44 platforms and 67 tracks, it holds the title of the largest train station in the world. Located on Vanderbilt Avenue in Manhattan, it’s nestled between Madison and Lexington Avenue.
Built in the elegant Beaux-Arts style, the station is a stunning reminder of New York’s golden age. After a major restoration in the 1990s, Grand Central once again lives up to its name. It’s grand, iconic, and full of hidden surprises.
Inside, you’ll find much more than just trains. There’s an Apple Store set within the historic architecture, and believe it or not, even tennis courts are inside the building! Don’t miss the Whispering Gallery near the famous Oyster Bar. A fun little secret where a whisper spoken in one corner of the arched hallway can be clearly heard on the other side.
Visiting Grand Central is one of those classic things to do in New York with kids. The whispering walls, the bustling energy, and the sheer scale of the station are sure to impress young travelers (and their parents too).
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