Curator’s statement
When I asked my 11-year-old son where he'd like to spend Spring Break this year, his immediate answer was New York City. As a devoted New York Mets fan, the prospect of being in the city during the opening week of the MLB season was simply irresistible to him. This shared passion for the team, combined with our family's deep-rooted connection to the city, made the decision to visit an easy one. My husband growing up hearing captivating tales of New York from my father-in-law, a proud Brooklyn native, only fueled our excitement. We fell in love with New York City on our brief visit last year, and we were eager to return and delve deeper into the vibrant tapestry of the Big Apple, uncovering its hidden gems and revisiting some beloved landmarks. This trip was more than just a vacation. It was a journey back to our roots and an opportunity to create lasting memories in a city that holds a special place in our hearts.
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Things to do in NYC
Times Square:
RiseNY: This immersive experience not only offers entertainment but also educates visitors about the cultural significance of NYC and Times Square. The 4D ride provides a thrilling finale, offering a unique perspective of the city's skyline. Insider tip: Try to visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines. Learn more at RiseNY.
The Ride: A lively and interactive tour through Times Square, The Ride offers a dynamic way to experience the bustling atmosphere of the area on a traveling theater bus. The entire family had so much fun doing this on our first night in the city. Find out more at The Ride.
Madame Tussauds + Marvel Universe 4D: Perfect for photo opportunities and entertainment, this museum allows visitors to get up close with lifelike wax figures of celebrities and historical figures. Learn more about Madame Tussauds New York at Madame Tussauds + Marvel Universe 4D.
Tours:
Central Park TV & Movie Sites Tour: This guided tour not only showcases famous filming locations but also provides insights into the history and significance of Central Park. Insider tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes and a camera to capture memorable moments along the way. Book your tour at Central Park TV & Movie Sites Tour.
SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown Walking Tour: Experience Little Italy and more with this walking tour, despite the weather setback, experiencing Little Italy was a highlight. Find out more and book your tour at SoHo, Little Italy, Chinatown Walking Tour.
Museum:
9/11 Museum: Spend time viewing the beautiful 9/11 Memorial Pools and experience a profound journey of remembrance and reflection at the 9/11 Memorial Museum. Insider tip: Allocate enough time to fully absorb the exhibits and consider pre-booking tickets to avoid long queues. Learn more at 9/11 Museum.
American Museum of Natural History: Explore the American Museum of Natural History, where you can enjoy various exhibits. Learn more at American Museum of Natural History.
Attractions:
Edge: Enjoy amazing views from the outdoor sky deck. If you're adventurous, they offer a City Climb experience where you can scale the outside of the skyscraper. Find out more at Edge.
MLB Game at Citi Field: The highlight of our trip was our front-row seats next to the Mets dugout at a home game. Insider tip: Arrive early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere and explore the stadium's amenities and food options. Learn more about Citi Field at MLB Game at Citi Field.
Places to eat & drink in NYC
Ferrara Cafe: Transport yourself to a sweet paradise at Ferrara Cafe, a beloved institution in Little Italy since 1892. Known for its exquisite Italian and French desserts, this quaint cafe is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. Insider tip: Be sure to sample their legendary Cannoli, a delectable treat that has garnered praise from locals and visitors alike for generations.
Sofia’s: We stopped for lunch in the heart of Little Italy at Sofia’s. It is a great authentic Italian restaurant with handmade pastas. This charming eatery offers a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of dining in Italy.
Parm Italian Restaurant: One of our favorite Italian spots conveniently located across the street from the Conrad New York Downtown.
ELVEZ: A nice Mexican restaurant located steps away from the Conrad New York Downtown.
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Shelly Maffia
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This itinerary is part of our ongoing series on travel to New York City. For more travel tips, check out my guide, Family Adventure in San Diego and Beyond.