Family-Friendly 5-Day Itinerary in New York City

Explore the family-friendly side of New York City with this 5-day itinerary. From iconic attractions to hidden gems, this itinerary has something for everyone in your family. Check hotel and flight prices here.

Thursday, August 10: Central Park Adventure

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Central Park. In the morning, rent bicycles and explore the park's scenic trails. Stop by the Central Park Zoo in the afternoon and enjoy a variety of animal exhibits. In the evening, have a picnic at Sheep Meadow and relax while enjoying the stunning views of the park.

• Central Park Bike Rental: $20 per hour, 2-3 hours
• Central Park Zoo: $12 for adults, $8 for children, 2-3 hours
• Sheep Meadow: Free, unlimited time

Restaurants

• For breakfast, check out Le Pain Quotidien located near Central Park. This cozy cafe offers a variety of pastries, freshly baked bread, and delicious breakfast options. The average cost for a meal here is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, head to The Loeb Boathouse in Central Park. This iconic lakeside restaurant serves American cuisine and offers an outdoor patio with beautiful views. The average cost for a meal here is about $30 per person.
• For dinner, try The Smith located near Central Park. This neighborhood brasserie features a diverse menu with options ranging from pasta to seafood. The average cost for a meal here is about $40 per person.

Friday, August 11: American Museum of Natural History

Spend the morning exploring the fascinating exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History. Discover dinosaur fossils, explore the human evolution gallery, and marvel at the giant blue whale model. Afterward, head to Shake Shack for a delicious burger for lunch. In the evening, take a stroll along the nearby Riverside Park for stunning Hudson River views.

• American Museum of Natural History: $23 for adults, $13 for children, 3-4 hours
• Shake Shack: $10-15 per person, 1 hour
• Riverside Park: Free, unlimited time

Saturday, August 12: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Embark on a historical adventure by visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the ferry from Battery Park in the morning and explore the Statue of Liberty, enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline. Afterward, visit Ellis Island Immigration Museum to learn about the history of immigration to the United States. In the evening, head to Chelsea Market for dinner and explore the unique shops and food vendors.

• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Ferry: $25 for adults, $12 for children, 4-6 hours
• Ellis Island Immigration Museum: $18 for adults, $9 for children, 2-3 hours
• Chelsea Market: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Sunday, August 13: Broadway Show and Times Square

Experience the magic of Broadway by attending a family-friendly matinee show. Choose from popular productions like The Lion King or Aladdin. After the show, explore the dazzling lights of Times Square and indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

• Broadway Show: $50-150 per ticket, 2-3 hours
• Times Square: Free, unlimited time
• Families-friendly restaurants: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Junior's Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering pancakes and signature cheesecake. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, try Shake Shack, a popular burger joint with a variety of options for both kids and adults. Average cost for a meal is about $10-$15 per person.
• For dinner, visit Carmine's, a classic Italian restaurant offering family-style dishes that are perfect for sharing. Average cost for a meal is about $30-$40 per person.

Monday, August 14: Children's Museum of Manhattan

End your family-friendly adventure with a visit to the Children's Museum of Manhattan. Let your kids explore the interactive exhibits, participate in art workshops, and engage in imaginative play. Enjoy a picnic lunch at Central Park before heading back home, creating lasting memories of your New York City trip.

• Children's Museum of Manhattan: $15 for adults, $12 for children, 3-4 hours
• Central Park Picnic: Cost varies, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring New York City, be sure to check out the High Line, an elevated park on an old railway track offering beautiful city views. Another hidden gem is the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, where you can explore historic aircraft carriers and even Concorde. For a unique experience, visit the interactive SPYSCAPE Museum, where you can test your spy skills and learn about espionage. These attractions are family-friendly and offer a different perspective of the city.