Making Magical Memories in NYC
- Luxe Scout's The List
- May 19, 2024
- 3 min read
While New York City might not immediately spring to mind as a top vacation destination for kids, it's bursting with opportunities for family fun and exploration. From marveling at the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to playing in Central Park, the Big Apple offers something to captivate every member of your family. Introduce your kids to the magic of Broadway. Idulge in delectable treats at iconic eateries such as High Tea at the Plaza or a Coney Island hotdog. With its boundless energy and endless opportunities for exploration, NYC promises a magical experience.
Where to Stay:
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial when visiting NYC with kids and teens. The Upper East Side, Upper West Side, or Midtown are my favorite areas to stay, offering convenient access to major attractions and family-friendly amenities. If you're traveling with young children still in strollers or car seats, keep in mind that elevators in subway stations are sparse and often out of service. Opt for a lightweight stroller and try to stay within walking distance of your must-see attractions to minimize travel time. Luxury hotels like the Plaza, Mandarin Oriental, 1 Hotel Central Park, and Lotte New York Palace cater to families with special amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
When to Go:
There is almost never a bad time to visit NYC, but my favorite time to go is Thanksgiving. There's no better time to immerse your family in the magic of the holiday season than Thanksgiving weekend in the Big Apple. The magic of the holidays gets kicked off with Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. If getting up before 5 am to secure a spot along the parade route doesn’t sound appealing, there are a variety of private view parties, and VIP bleachers that allow you to watch the parade in comfort. It's also possible to secure a hotel room or suite with views of the parade. Numerous restaurants along the parade route offer lavish breakfast buffets and bottomless mimosas, along with face-painting, ballon-making and other activities to engage children- all while keeping warm. If you want to be steeped in the excitement of crowds, then VIP bleacher seats in front of Macy’s are the ultimate viewing spot, but you’ll need a travel advisor with connections because not even Amex concierge services can help you get these coveted tickets. Tip: Book now for Thanksgiving weekend.
Things to Do:
Aside from the obvious must-see attractions like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square, kids and teens will find engaging and exciting activities. Central Park promises an adventurous afternoon, with multiple playgrounds, a carousel, horse-drawn carriage rides, and ice skating (seasonal). There are world-class museums that offer kid and teen special programming. The Met offers “Teen Only Nights, " featuring immersive multidisciplinary experiences, DJs, and dancing. For your more active kids, check out the Bronx Zoo's Treetop Adventure with side-by-side zip lines spanning 400 feet across the Bronx River, and seven suspended ropes courses.
No visit to NYC would be complete without a Broadway show. Family-friendly shows like "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," "Wicked," or "Aladdin" are perfect for introducing your kids to the magic of Broadway. Be sure to check the age requirements before buying your tickets because some of the shows (even those that seem kid-themed) have a minimum age requirement. The Rockettes, a must-see while visiting NYC, welcomes children of all ages.
Explore flagship stores like the LEGO Store, Nintendo NYC, and the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store. Create an over-the-top experience at American Girl New York with lunch at the American Girl Café, or treat your family to a private tour of FAO Schwarz led by a Toy Soldier for an extra special experience.
New York City offers an unparalleled blend of excitement, culture, and entertainment for families with kids and teens. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks, enjoying world-class performances, or indulging in delicious treats, your kid will never forget their first trip to NYC with you.
