Ultimate 11-Day Family-Friendly New York City Itinerary for Exploring Iconic Attractions and Hidden Gems

Day 1: Iconic Manhattan Landmarks

New York City, USA on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Enjoy breakfast at this famous Broadway-themed diner where singing waitstaff perform, perfect for kids and adults alike. Opens at 7:00am.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit the Empire State Building Observation Deck

Explore the iconic 102-story skyscraper and take in panoramic views of the city from the 86th-floor open-air deck. Opens 8:00am-2:00am.
USD44/adult, USD38/child, 1h30m

11:30am

Stroll Bryant Park and New York Public Library

Relax in Bryant Park and visit the spectacular New York Public Library main branch, great for family photos and a light walk.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Shake Shack Madison Square Park

Grab classic burgers, fries, and shakes from the famous Shake Shack, located inside the scenic Madison Square Park.
USD15-20/person, 1h

2:00pm

Explore Times Square

Immerse yourself in the bright lights, giant billboards, and street performers in this buzzing family-friendly spot. Perfect for photos and shopping.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Visit Madame Tussauds NYC

See lifelike wax figures of celebrities and superheroes, interactive exhibits suitable for kids. Opens 10:00am-10:00pm.
USD40/adult, USD35/child, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Savor delicious family-style Italian dishes in a lively atmosphere, perfect for a hearty dinner after a day of sightseeing.
USD30-40/person, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lower Manhattan & Statue of Liberty

New York City, USA on May 6, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Blue Spoon Coffee Company

Start with specialty coffee and fresh pastries in Tribeca, a cozy spot open from 7:00am.
USD10-15, 1h

8:30am

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

Catch the ferry from Battery Park and explore the iconic statue and immigrant history on Ellis Island. Ferry runs 8:30am-5:00pm.
USD23/adult, USD12/child, 4h

1:00pm

Lunch at Battery Gardens Restaurant

Enjoy waterfront dining with stunning views of the harbor near Battery Park, serving American cuisine.
USD25-35/person, 1h

2:30pm

Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

Reflect at the twin reflecting pools and visit the museum to learn about the events of 9/11. Open 9:00am-8:00pm.
USD26/adult, USD15/child, 2h

5:00pm

Walk across Brooklyn Bridge

Walk from Manhattan to Brooklyn enjoying spectacular skyline views, suitable for all ages.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Juliana’s Pizza

Treat the family to some of Brooklyn’s best pizza, casual and kid-friendly. Opens until 10:00pm.
USD20-30/person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Central Park and Museums

New York City, USA on May 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth's Central Park South

Enjoy an upscale breakfast with a family-friendly menu just steps from Central Park. Opens 7:30am.
USD20-30/person, 1h

9:30am

Explore Central Park

Visit the Central Park Zoo, Belvedere Castle, and the famous playgrounds, perfect for kids to roam and parents to relax.
Zoo: USD19/adult, USD14/child; Park free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse

Dine lakeside in Central Park at this iconic spot with options for casual and upscale meals; reserve in advance.
USD25-40/person, 1h30m

2:30pm

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Explore fascinating exhibits including dinosaur skeletons and the planetarium. Open 10:00am-5:30pm.
USD28/adult, USD16/child suggested donation, 2h30m

5:30pm

Light evening walk on the Upper West Side

Stroll through the neighborhood's charming streets with cafes and shops.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Jacob’s Pickles

Savor Southern comfort food and craft beers in a cozy family-friendly setting; open until 11:00pm.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 4: Brooklyn Exploration

Brooklyn, New York, USA on May 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bakeri

Enjoy freshly baked pastries and coffee at this beloved Brooklyn bakery. Opens 7:30am.
USD10-15, 1h

9:00am

Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Discover beautiful themed gardens and a peaceful oasis for the family. Open 8:00am-6:00pm.
USD20/adult, USD12/child, 2h

11:30am

Visit the Brooklyn Museum

Explore diverse art collections ideal for family engagement with interactive exhibits. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD16/adult, free under 19, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Dekalb Market Hall

Sample food from multiple vendors offering a wide selection ideal for all tastes in a lively market setting.
USD15-25/person, 1h

3:00pm

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Enjoy playgrounds, waterfront views, and green spaces for an active afternoon outside.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Shake Shack Brooklyn

End the day with casual family dining at the Brooklyn Shake Shack location with outdoor seating by the water.
USD15-20/person, 1h
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Day 5: Museum Mile and Upper East Side

New York City, USA on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Sabarsky

Enjoy Viennese-style breakfast in a lovely setting inside the Neue Galerie. Opens 9:00am but you can start with the cafe opening.
USD20-30/person, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore world-class art collections ranging from ancient to modern. Ideal for family discovery with kid-friendly guides. Opens 10:00am-5:30pm.
USD30/adult, free under 12, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at The Petrie Court Café at The Met

Conveniently located inside the museum, serving seasonal and family-friendly meals.
USD20-30/person, 1h

2:00pm

Visit The Guggenheim Museum

Take in modern art inside the iconic Frank Lloyd Wright building. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, free under 12, 1h30m

3:45pm

Walk and Relax in Central Park

Enjoy a scenic walk on the nearby paths or visit the Conservatory Water model boat pond.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Snack at Levain Bakery

Try the famed cookies at this popular bakery; open until 7:00pm.
USD5-10, 30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Serafina

Enjoy casual upscale Italian food with family-friendly options on the Upper East Side.
USD30-40/person, 1h30m
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Day 6: The High Line & Chelsea Markets

New York City, USA on May 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Chelsea Market

Start with a variety of breakfast options at Chelsea Market, a must-see food hall open from 7:00am.
USD10-20/person, 1h

9:30am

Walk The High Line Park

Walk the elevated park built on a historic freight rail line with gardens, art installations, and city views. Opens daily 7:00am-10:00pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Lobster Place (Chelsea Market)

Eat fresh seafood and casual dishes inside Chelsea Market, popular with families.
USD20-30/person, 1h

1:30pm

Explore Whitney Museum of American Art

Discover contemporary American art with engaging exhibits. Open 10:30am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, USD20/child, 2h

3:30pm

Visit Hudson River Park

Relax or play in this waterfront park with playgrounds and green spaces along the Hudson River.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Cookshop

Enjoy farm-to-table New American cuisine in a family-friendly environment, open until 10:00pm.
USD30-40/person, 1h30m
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Day 7: Day at Bronx Zoo & New York Botanical Garden

Bronx, New York, USA on May 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Mobay Breakfast Place

Fuel up with hearty breakfast near the Bronx Zoo; opens 7:00am.
USD10-15, 1h

8:30am

Bronx Zoo

Spend the morning exploring one of the largest metropolitan zoos with animals and kid-friendly exhibits. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
USD25/adult, USD17/child, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Dancing Crane Café (Bronx Zoo)

Grab lunch within the zoo at this family-friendly café offering sandwiches and snacks.
USD15-20/person, 1h

1:30pm

New York Botanical Garden

Explore the magnificent gardens, seasonal exhibits, and the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory. Open 10:00am-6:00pm.
USD30/adult, USD15/child, 2h30m

4:00pm

Return to Manhattan and relax

After a nature-filled day, rest at your accommodation or nearby park.
Free, Unspecified

7:00pm

Dinner at Pisticci

Enjoy Italian family-style dining in a cozy Bronx restaurant, welcoming after a busy day.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 8: Explore Harlem & Riverside Park

New York City, USA on May 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Melba’s

Enjoy soulful southern breakfast favorites in Harlem, opens 8:00am.
USD15-20/person, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Studio Museum in Harlem

Explore contemporary African American art and family-friendly exhibits. Open 11:00am-6:00pm, Sunday closed so check for special hours.
USD7/adult, free children, 1h

11:00am

Walk around historic Harlem

Explore landmarks such as the Apollo Theater and enjoy the vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
Free, 1h

12:30pm

Lunch at Sylvia’s Restaurant

Enjoy classic soul food in one of Harlem’s most iconic and family-friendly spots.
USD20-30/person, 1h

2:00pm

Walk and relax at Riverside Park

Enjoy scenic walking paths, playgrounds, and river views ideal for families.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to Midtown

Prepare for evening plans or relaxation.
Free, Unspecified

7:00pm

Dinner at The Smith

Enjoy American bistro food with a family-friendly vibe in Midtown; opens until 11:00pm.
USD25-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 9: Museum of Modern Art & Rockefeller Center

New York City, USA on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery

Enjoy French pastries and coffee near Rockefeller Center; opens 7:30am.
USD15-20, 1h

9:00am

Visit Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

See world-renowned modern artworks and family-friendly activities. Open 10:30am-5:30pm.
USD25/adult, free under 16, 2h

11:30am

Explore Rockefeller Center and Top of the Rock

Tour the art deco complex and enjoy views from the Top of the Rock observation deck. Opens 8:00am-12:00am.
USD40/adult, USD34/child, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bill's Bar & Burger

Casual American dining near Rockefeller Center with burgers and kids’ options.
USD15-25/person, 1h

3:00pm

Shop and stroll Fifth Avenue

Explore world-famous shops and visit St. Patrick’s Cathedral for architecture appreciation.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Modern

Upscale dining inside MoMA with a children’s menu, ideal for a family celebration.
USD50-70/person, 1h30m
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Day 10: Chelsea and Greenwich Village

New York City, USA on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Buvette

Cozy French small plates and breakfast in the West Village, opens 8:00am.
USD15-25/person, 1h

9:30am

Explore Washington Square Park

Enjoy the iconic arch, playground, and street performers in this lively park.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Walk through Greenwich Village

Discover charming streets, independent shops, and literary history.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at Artichoke Basille's Pizza

Enjoy large, tasty slices of New York-style pizza, perfect for families.
USD15-20/person, 1h

1:30pm

Visit The Rubin Museum of Art

Explore Himalayan art and culture with interactive galleries suitable for kids. Open 11:00am-6:00pm.
USD19/adult, Free under 18, 1h30m

3:30pm

Chelsea Piers Recreation

Enjoy family-friendly activities like mini-golf, bowling, or skating in this sports complex.
USD20-40/person depending on activity, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Meatball Shop

Casual, fun dining with creative meatball dishes family will enjoy. Opens until 10:00pm.
USD20-30/person, 1h30m
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Day 11: Relax and Departure

New York City, USA on May 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Breads Bakery

Enjoy fresh breads and pastries from this popular bakery to start your last day.
USD10-15, 1h

9:30am

Leisurely stroll and light shopping in SoHo

Explore chic boutiques and farewell walk through one of NYC’s trendiest neighborhoods.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Jack's Wife Freda

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a casual, welcoming setting before departure.
USD20-30/person, 1h

1:30pm

Pack and prepare for departure

Return to accommodation to pack and relax before heading to the airport or next destination.
Free, Unspecified
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