The Not-So-Cookie-Cutter Guide to NYC for Kids

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Advisor - Alejandra Schroeder
Curated By

Alejandra Schroeder

  • Arts & Culture

  • Family Travel

  • City Travel

  • New York City

  • Entertainment

  • Shopping

  • Sightseeing

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Curator’s statement

NYC is one of the most exciting destinations, but tackling it with a couple (or one that feels like a few) tots can be a little intimidating (not to say overwhelming).

But do not fret, friends! Did you know the city that never sleeps can be as kid-friendly as any other destination? As a former NYC mom (who constantly goes back with her two twisters), check out my tips and tricks for traveling with kids to this awesome city.

The Fora Difference

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in New York City

Mint House at 70 Pine - NYC

Experience modern luxury at Mint House at 70 Pine, where contemporary design meets historic elegance in the heart of NYC.

The Plaza

Glamorous NYC icon steps from Central Park, with an Old New York vibe and essential Afternoon Tea service.

Fora Perks
  • ★

    $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • ★

    Breakfast daily.

  • ★

    Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Hilton New York Times Square

Immerse yourself in the heart of the city at Hilton New York Times Square, steps away from iconic attractions.

The Towers at Lotte New York Palace

Classic Midtown, New York, hotel with stunning views over the city.

Unlock perks by contacting Alejandra to book your trip.

Things to do in New York City

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Downtown:

  • Stroll around Soho and visit the Museum of Ice Cream, the Color Factory and the Sloomoo Institute.

  • Head to Eataly Downtown to eat some fresh pizza or pasta and visit Mercer Labs.

  • Take the Ferry to DUMBO (and ride the Carousel with a view after eating a pizza at Roberta’s)

  • Battery Park playground and Sea Glass Carousel.

  • Go north to Flat Iron and visit the Camp Trolls Experience.

  • Explore the Ships at the South Street Seaport.

  • Grab a burger at Pj Clark's (or Le District) and watch the boats sail before you head over to Rockefeller Park.

Midtown:

  • Have an Ice cream and run around the Highline (take some cool pictures with some serious street art while at it)

  • Eat some tacos (numero uno) at the Chelsea Market.

  • Visit the Camp Store at Hudson Yards.

  • Take some Selfies at the Edge.

  • Get lost among toys at FAO Schwartz.

  • Have a day of fun at the Chelsea Piers.

  • Explore the lights and shops around Times Square.

  • Explore Little Island.

  • Check out a Broadway play (Aladdin and the Lion King allow kids three and over)

  • Feel like a US Navy Pilot at the Intrepid Museum.

Uptown:

  • Stroll around Central Park and visit the penguins at Central Park Zoo.

  • Make Eloise Proud and visit the eateries at the Plaza.

  • Say hi to the Dinosaurs at the Museum of Nat. History!

Day Trips:

Venture out of Manhattan and Explore

  • Brooklyn: Dumbo, BK Heights (the NY Transit museum) and Williamsburg (Domino Park is a must)

  • Bronx: Visit the world-renowned zoo.

  • Governors Island: Eat some Mexican food at Gitano and rent out a bike Cart to roam around the Island.

Places to eat & drink in New York City

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Fun and Relaxed Eats:

A little more upscale (but very friendly):

  • Bad Roman

  • Tavern on the Green

  • The Tin Building by Jean Georges

  • Eataly

  • Brookfield Place

Fun Food Experiences:

Need to know

If your tots use a stroller, download the NYC subway app to check which stations have accessibility elevators.

Use the Ferry as a fun way to get between boroughs.

Awesome Parks and playgrounds:

  • Battery Park (Battery Playscape)

  • Rockefeller Park

  • Pier 26

  • Central Park Playgrounds

  • Domino Park at Williamsburg

Advisor - Alejandra Schroeder

Travel Advisor

Alejandra Schroeder

Get in touch with Alejandra

Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.

You can normally expect a response from Alejandra within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).

This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to New York City. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Erica Gould's guide, How to Spend 1 Week in NYC with Tweens.