A 6-Day Family Friendly Grand Tour of New York City

  1. Day 1: American Museum of Natural History
    Located in the Upper West Side
    Recommended time: at least 5 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 15 minutes (2.5 miles)

    The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world, with exhibits on human origins, dinosaurs, biodiversity, and space. You can easily spend a full day exploring its halls and displays.

  2. Day 2: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
    Located in the New York Harbor
    Recommended time: at least 5 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 40 minutes (5 miles)

    The Statue of Liberty is a symbol of freedom and democracy in the United States, and it offers magnificent views of Manhattan from its crown. Ellis Island was the gateway for millions of immigrants to the US and is now a National Museum of Immigration.

  3. Day 3: Central Park and Zoos
    Located in the heart of Manhattan
    Recommended time: at least 4 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 20 minutes (3 miles)

    Central Park is a spacious park in Manhattan with numerous walking and biking paths, gardens, lakes, and even a zoo. The Central Park Zoo is home to many animals, including red pandas, snow leopards, and sea lions.

  4. Day 4: Times Square and Broadway Show
    Located in the Midtown area
    Recommended time: at least 4 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 10 minutes (1.5 miles)

    Times Square is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with its bright lights, theaters, restaurants, and shops. A Broadway show is a magical experience that must not be missed while in New York, with many options for both adults and children.

  5. Day 5: Brooklyn and Coney Island
    Located across the East River from Manhattan
    Recommended time: at least 5 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 45 minutes (8 miles)

    Brooklyn is a hip and trendy borough of New York, home to many restaurants, bars, and shops. Coney Island is a beachside amusement park with classic rides and attractions, including the iconic Cyclone roller coaster.

  6. Day 6: Street Food and Shopping
    Located in various neighborhoods throughout Manhattan
    Recommended time: at least 4 hours
    Distance and time estimate from the previous location: 30 minutes (4 miles)

    New York is famous for its street food, from hot dogs and pretzels to pizza and falafel. You can find food carts and trucks on many street corners throughout the city. After filling up on some tasty bites, head to some of New York's many shopping districts, such as Fifth Avenue or SoHo, for some retail therapy.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • American Museum of Natural History (5 hours, $28 per adult)
  • Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (5 hours, $25 per adult)
  • Central Park and Zoos (4 hours, $13 per adult at the Central Park Zoo)
  • Times Square and Broadway Show (4 hours, $100+ per person for show tickets)
  • Brooklyn and Coney Island (5 hours, $40 for an all-day Luna Park pass)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $206 per adult

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting some of New York's other popular attractions, such as the Empire State Building, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. If you have less time, consider skipping some of the optional activities, such as the Broadway show or shopping, to save time and money. Also, take advantage of New York's extensive public transit system to get around the city quickly and affordably.

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