Family-Friendly Itinerary for New York in 2 Days

  • Day 1: Central Park
    10 minutes from Times Square

    Central Park is a must-visit destination for families. The park boasts lush landscapes and a variety of attractions, including a zoo and several playgrounds. Families can take a bike ride or picnic in one of the park's many grassy areas.

  • Day 1: American Museum of Natural History
    15 minutes from Central Park

    The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. It showcases a diverse range of exhibits and interactive displays, including the dinosaur exhibition and the planetarium. There are also special exhibits and events throughout the year.

  • Day 2: Statue of Liberty
    30 minutes from Central Park

    No trip to New York is complete without a visit to the Statue of Liberty. Families can take a ferry ride to Liberty Island and climb the steps to the pedestal for breathtaking views of the city. There are also several museums on the island, providing a glimpse into the history and construction of the iconic statue.

  • Day 2: Empire State Building
    25 minutes from the Statue of Liberty

    The Empire State Building offers amazing panoramic views of the city. Families can choose to visit the observation deck during the day or at night. There are also exhibits and displays showcasing the history and construction of the famous building.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Central Park (2-3 hours, free)
  • American Museum of Natural History (3-4 hours, adult $23, child $13 (suggested admission))
  • Statue of Liberty (2-4 hours, adult $18.50, child $9)
  • Empire State Building (1-2 hours, adult $42, child $36)
  • Total Estimated Costs: adult $83.50, child $58

Transportation

Travelers in New York have many transportation options, including taxis, buses, and subways. Families may want to consider purchasing a MetroCard, which offers unlimited rides on the subway and local buses. The cost for a 7-day unlimited ride MetroCard is $33 per person. Traffic in New York can be heavy, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Useful Tips

If families have more time, they could visit more museums, such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art. If they have less time, they could skip the Empire State Building and spend more time at Central Park or the Statue of Liberty.

Airports

New York has three airports: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). JFK is the largest airport and is located approximately 16 miles southeast of Manhattan. LaGuardia is located about 8 miles east of Manhattan and is the closest airport to the city. Newark Liberty is located in New Jersey, about 16 miles southwest of Manhattan.

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