New York offers plenty of sights, sounds, and activities to keep children occupied and fascinated and parents happy. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when visiting New York for the first time, especially with kids. There are dazzling lights, an array of sounds, and an endless list of places to go and sights to see. Kids will be instantly impressed by looking up at soaring skyscrapers and getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of people passing by. When it comes to finding places to go with your kids, your biggest problem will be deciding which places to visit in New York with your children first.
Toy Stores
Toy stores have long held the fascination of children. Many of the toy stores you’ll find in New York have entertained children and inspired creativity for generations. Some items are pricy, but there are plenty of affordable selections to be found too. Kids will be instantly amazed even while browsing.
FAO Schwarz
767 5th Avenue
Manhattan, NY 10153
(212) 644-9400
The iconic toy store is known for its stunning window display and wide array of toys, games, electronics, puzzles, and stuffed animals. Parents will remember that this is the toy store with the interactive floor piano featured in the Tom Hanks’ movie “Big.” Kids will be just as impressed by the store.
Boomerang Toys
119 West Broadway
New York
(212) 226-7650
You’ll find plenty of hard-to-find gems here for kids of all ages. There is a wide selection of delights for younger children and an array of appealing treasures for older kids too.
West Side Kids
498 Amsterdam Avenue
New York
(212) 496-7282
With its homey atmosphere, this charming toy store offers a selection of unique toys likely to spark the imagination of your kids.
The Lego Store
620 5th Avenue
New York
(212) 245-5973
What kid doesn’t love Legos? Located in Rockefeller Center, parents and kids alike will be fascinated with the displays found in this store. You can also purchase your very own Lego set so that your kids can continue the fun at home.
Museums
It’s no surprise that New York has a wide selection of museums catering to just about every interest. Many of these museums offer fascinating discoveries and engaging exhibits that will fascinate both adults and children.
American Museum of Natural History
200 Central Park West
New York, NY 10024
(212) 769-5100
One of the most famous museums in the world, the American Museum of Natural History offers an impressive collection of displays and exhibits – many of which change on a regular basis. Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, the museum houses more than 32 million specimens and thousands of exhibits. Children are likely to be fascinated with the African Mammal Hall, the Arthur Ross Hall of Meteorites, and the Hall of Gems and Minerals.
Intrepid Sea Air Space Museum
Pier 86 W 46th St and 12th Ave
New York, NY 10036
(212) 957-7041
This military and maritime history museum offers an extensive collection of museum ships and other nautical artifacts. The highlight of the museum is the USS Intrepid, a World War II aircraft carrier. The latest edition to the museum is the retired space shuttle Enterprise. Kids will also be fascinated by the aircraft and submarines on display here.
Children’s Museum of the Arts
103 Charlton Street
New York, NY 10014
(212) 274-0986
This is definitely one museum children will love. There are activities scheduled for children of all ages, from reading groups to painting groups. Located in Manhattan’s South Village, the museum features a collection of fun art pieces and ongoing exhibits. The real draw for children is the hands-on activities geared towards young artists.
Parks and Zoos
There are more than enough parks and zoos for children to enjoy in New York. Admittance is pretty cheap at the zoos and you can enjoy most park activities for either no charge or a small fee.
Bronx Zoo
2300 South Blvd
Bronx, NY 10460
(718) 367-1010
This world famous zoo houses more than 4,000 animals from every part of the world. There are more than enough activities and fun exhibits to keep kids fascinated for hours.
Central Park Zoo
830 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10065
(212) 439-6500
Located in Central Park, this zoo offers an impressive collection of polar bears, rainforest creatures, and penguins – still a popular kid favorite.
Bryant Park
41 West 40th Street
New York
(212) 768-4242
Located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, this park is great place for a family picnic when the weather’s nice. Kids will enjoy a touch of rural atmosphere right in the heart of the city.
Central Park
Manhattan, New York
(212) 360-2756
Located right in the center of Manhattan, this iconic park is likely to have something going on that will keep children entertained. Many family-friendly activities take place here nearly year-round. Just taking a walk around this historic park can be fun.
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Bio: Jennifer Anderson is a frequent contributor for Assisted Living Today. She writes on a wide variety of topics including technology, health, green living and entertainment