Family vacations can often be stressful, but they can be great opportunities for beautiful, lifelong memories. It can be difficult to choose where to go on vacation each year when everyone wants something different, so it is important to choose a spot that has something for everyone. One such destination for family-friendly attractions and a memorable holiday is the incredible New York City
The Statue of Liberty
You simply cannot visit New York City without taking in the incredible history. One of the most well-known historical monuments in the United States is the Statue of Liberty, and the entire family will love this patriotic sight. Of course, children must be at least four feet tall to climb the 337 steps to the top. Be sure to book your tickets in advance for your visit to Lady Liberty.
NYC’s Incredible Museums
There are several museums across the five boroughs of New York City. See the bones of ancient creatures at the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side, get messy at the DiMenna Children’s History Museum (perfect for little ones who may not have the attention span for a more mature museum), or dive into local history at the New York Historical Society. The entire family will be delighted to become historical detectives, scourging through the past of this incredible city.
Many parents can attest to the endless curiosity of their children. From museums to art exhibits, they want to see it all. However, while there are plenty of historical museums in the city, your children may want to visit the National Geographic Encounter’s Ocean Odyssey. See Great Whites and dolphins, learn about current research in the field, and find out quickly why science can be fun. From toddlers to grandfathers, the entire family can enjoy all the fascination that our big blue ocean has to offer.
The Skyline
From toddlers to teenagers, everyone enjoys an incredible view. Luckily, New York offers some of the greatest views in the country. Take the Staten Island Ferry free of charge to get a perfect shot of the Statue of Liberty (if you were unable to secure those advanced tickets), or head to the top of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building for dinner and a view. It doesn’t matter how old you are – a striking view such as that from the Brooklyn Bridge is always awe-inspiring.
Central Park
You simply cannot go to New York City without visiting the famous Central Park. From its historical monuments to a fascinating people watching experience, Central Park is a natural wonderland in the middle of steel highrises and all-night lights. It is also home to the Central Park Zoo, and visiting the animals is a fun activity your whole group will enjoy. There is an area of the zoo that was made specifically for your family’s youngest members, the Tisch Children’s Zoo, which includes a petting zoo that presents a memorable photo opportunity – or a silly one.
A great way to get around the city and around Central Park is on a bike. Your entire family can get around this nationally-acclaimed park by finding cheap bike rental in the city, renting per hour or by day depending on what you need. Rather than taking a pricey cab or an Uber, cycling around the city is a great way to keep your family healthy while seeing the smaller things that make NYC interesting.
There is truly something for everyone in New York City. From vivacious nights on the town to family-friendly days at the Central Park Zoo, your family will love a visit to the Big Apple. In fact, you’ll need to come back again and again just to see everything it has to offer.
