New York Family Fun

Saturday, December 9: Explore Central Park

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Central Park. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll through the park, admiring the picturesque landscapes and iconic landmarks like the Bethesda Terrace. In the afternoon, visit the Central Park Zoo, home to a variety of animals, including snow leopards and penguins. As the evening sets in, head to Wollman Rink for ice skating and enjoy the magical winter atmosphere.

• Central Park: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Central Park Zoo: $12.95 per adult, $8.95 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Wollman Rink: $12 per adult, $6 per child, plus skate rental, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Sarabeth's, a charming café known for their delicious brunch options like fluffy pancakes and savory omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
• For lunch, grab a bite at The Loeb Boathouse, a waterfront restaurant offering stunning lake views. Enjoy their classic American dishes like salads, sandwiches, and fresh seafood. The average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
• For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at The Tavern on the Green. This historic restaurant offers a seasonal menu featuring gourmet dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.

Sunday, December 10: Discover the American Museum of Natural History

Embark on a journey through history and science at the American Museum of Natural History. Spend the morning exploring the fascinating exhibits, including the famous dinosaur fossils and the planetarium. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Central Park West Playground for some outdoor family fun. End the day with a visit to Levain Bakery, where you can indulge in their famous chocolate chip cookies.

• American Museum of Natural History: $23 per adult, $13 per child, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Central Park West Playground: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Levain Bakery: Cost varies, Time spent: 1 hour

Monday, December 11: Explore the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of aviation, space exploration, and naval history at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Spend the morning exploring the aircraft carrier Intrepid, the space shuttle Enterprise, and the submarine Growler. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the High Line, an elevated park with stunning city views. End the day with a visit to Chelsea Market, where you can sample delicious food and browse unique shops.

• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum: $33 per adult, $24 per child, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• The High Line: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Chelsea Market: Cost varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Tuesday, December 12: Visit the Children's Museum of Manhattan

Give your kids an educational and interactive experience at the Children's Museum of Manhattan. Spend the morning exploring the various exhibits, including the Dora and Diego exhibit and the PlayWorks™ exhibit. In the afternoon, take a scenic ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, learning about the history of immigration. End the day with a visit to Dylan's Candy Bar, a candy lover's paradise.

• Children's Museum of Manhattan: $15 per person, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: $25.50 per adult, $17 per child, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Dylan's Candy Bar: Cost varies, Time spent: 1 hour

Wednesday, December 13: Experience the Bronx Zoo

Spend the day immersed in nature and wildlife at the Bronx Zoo. Explore the various exhibits and habitats, including the Congo Gorilla Forest and the Butterfly Garden. Enjoy the sea lion and penguin feedings, as well as the 4-D Theater experience. Don't forget to pack a picnic and take a break in the zoo's beautiful surroundings.

• Bronx Zoo: $29.95 per adult, $22.95 per child, Time spent: 4-5 hours

Thursday, December 14: Enjoy Times Square

Marvel at the bright lights and bustling energy of Times Square. Spend the morning exploring the unique shops and iconic landmarks like the TKTS booth. In the afternoon, catch a Broadway show and immerse yourself in the world of live theater. End the day with a visit to the M&M's World store, where you can create your own customized M&M's.

• Times Square: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Broadway Show: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• M&M's World: Cost varies, Time spent: 1 hour

Friday, December 15: Explore the Museum of Modern Art

Immerse yourself in the world of contemporary art at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Spend the morning exploring the diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and multimedia exhibits. In the afternoon, visit Rockefeller Center and take a ride to the Top of the Rock observation deck for panoramic views of the city. End the day with a visit to Serendipity 3, a famous dessert spot known for their extravagant sundaes.

• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): $25 per adult, $14 per child, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Rockefeller Center: Free to visit, Top of the Rock observation deck: $41 per adult, $35 per child, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Serendipity 3: Cost varies, Time spent: 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring New York with your family, consider visiting the following off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals:

• Brooklyn Bridge Park: Enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, play in the playgrounds, and take a ride on Jane's Carousel.
• The Cloisters: Explore this medieval-inspired museum nestled in Fort Tryon Park, featuring beautiful artwork and serene gardens.
• Coney Island: Experience the nostalgic charm of this iconic amusement park destination with thrilling rides, boardwalk games, and a stroll along the beach.
• The New York Hall of Science: Discover interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for kids of all ages at this science museum located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.

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