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Family Fun in New York City: 3-Day Itinerary with Vanderbilt Summit

Viewed by 655 travelers

Day 1: Explore Manhattan

New York City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ellen's Stardust Diner

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Ellen's Stardust Diner, famous for its singing waitstaff and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Located in Times Square, a short walk from many Manhattan attractions.
USD 60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vanderbilt Museum - Summit One Vanderbilt

After breakfast, take a trip to the One Vanderbilt building for stunning views of the city from the observation deck at Summit One Vanderbilt, blending art, technology, and breathtaking sights.
Take the subway (7 train) to Grand Central and walk about 5 minutes to the entrance.
USD 100 (family pass), 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Central Park

Stroll through Central Park after your unparalleled view, where you can stop by playgrounds and iconic sights like The Mall and Bethesda Terrace.
It's a 20-minute walk from One Vanderbilt.
USD 0 (rentals or attractions may vary in price), 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Grab a delicious lunch at Shake Shack for their famous burgers and shakes, conveniently located near the park.
Located at 366 Columbus Ave, a 15-minute walk from Central Park.
USD 45, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the American Museum of Natural History

After lunch, head to the American Museum of Natural History, which is perfect for both kids and adults looking to explore dinosaurs or outer space.
It’s a 20-minute walk or short subway ride to 79th St.
USD 80 (family admission), 3 hours

6:30PM

Walk Around Times Square

Visit the dazzling lights and spectacle of Times Square, where you can shop for souvenirs and take iconic photos.
Take the subway or walk back to Times Square.
USD 0, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Enjoy a family-style dinner at Carmine's, renowned for its delicious Italian dishes and large portions.
A short walk from Times Square at 200 W 44th St.
USD 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Discover Brooklyn

Brooklyn, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Butler

Starting your day with freshly baked pastries and great coffee at Butler, a cozy spot in Williamsburg.
Take the L subway line from Manhattan to Bedford Avenue in Williamsburg.
USD 50, 1 hour

8:30AM

Visit Brooklyn's Prospect Park

Spend the morning playing in Prospect Park, with its many playgrounds and the Prospect Park Zoo located within.
It's a short walk from Butler, around 15 minutes.
USD 30 (Zoo admission), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Smorgasburg

Famous for its variety of food stalls, Smorgasburg will surely satisfy everyone's hunger, with options from all over the world.
Take a bus or a 20-minute subway ride to East River State Park.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

After lunch, take a stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying the incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.
It's a 20-minute walk from Smorgasburg to the bridge entrance.
USD 0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore DUMBO

Once across, take time to explore DUMBO, known for its cobblestone streets and stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
DUMBO is a short 10-minute walk from the end of the Brooklyn Bridge.
USD 0, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Jane's Carousel

Let the kids enjoy a ride on the historic Jane's Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Located in the park, a quick 5-minute walk from DUMBO.
USD 30 (family ticket), 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at River Café

Finish the day with a sunset dinner at the renowned River Café, boasting stunning views and excellent food.
A short walk from the carousel.
USD 200, 2 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Queens

Queens, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Bagel Oasis

Start your day with classic NYC bagels at Bagel Oasis, a local favorite known for its freshly made bagels.
Travel via subway or taxi to the restaurant in Forest Hills, about 30 minutes from Brooklyn.
USD 35, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Flushing Meadows-Corona Park

Discover the beauty of Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, with options to visit the Queens Museum or take a ride on the Unisphere.
Travel 20 minutes by taxi or subway to the park.
USD 20 (Queens Museum admission), 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Sylvia's Restaurant

Savor some soul food at Sylvia's Restaurant, where both kids and adults will find something to love on the menu.
Take a 20-minute taxi ride to Harlem for lunch.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Queens Night Market (Seasonal)

If visiting on a Saturday during the warmer months, explore the Queens Night Market for authentic street food and cultural vendors.
Head back to Flushing Meadows-Corona Park for the market, about 30 minutes away.
USD 0 (cost of food varies), 2 hours

3:00PM

Explore Astoria Park

Spend the afternoon enjoying the vast green spaces and playgrounds of Astoria Park, offering views of the Manhattan skyline.
Travel 15 minutes by taxi or subway from Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
USD 0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Taverna Kyclades

Wrap up your adventure with a delicious Greek dinner at Taverna Kyclades, known for its fresh seafood and warm atmosphere.
It’s a short 10-minute taxi ride from Astoria Park.
USD 100, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Relax at Astoria Park

Enjoy a peaceful evening unwind at Astoria Park, soaking in the views and letting the kids play before heading back home.
Simple: just stay at Astoria Park.
USD 0, 1 hour
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