4-Day Family-Friendly New York City Itinerary with Classic Attractions and Free Activities

Day 1: Midtown Landmarks

New York City, USA on June 16, 2025

10:30am

Visit Times Square

Explore the vibrant and bustling heart of Midtown Manhattan, famous for its huge electronic billboards and lively atmosphere. This free activity is great for all ages and perfect for photo opportunities.
USD0, 1h0m

11:30am

Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Explore Rockefeller Center plaza, then visit the observation deck for panoramic views over Central Park and the Empire State Building. Great for family pictures and sightseeing.
USD40 per adult, USD34 per youth (under 13 free under some conditions), 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Friedman's Midtown

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch with a diverse American menu that avoids seafood, offering grilled chicken and vegetarian options in a casual setting near Rockefeller Center.
USD20-30 per person, 1h0m

2:45pm

Stroll along Fifth Avenue

Enjoy walking down iconic Fifth Avenue and window-shop famous stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and the Apple Store. A great free activity with fabulous city vibes.
USD0, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Bryant Park

Relax in Bryant Park, a lovely green space with free seating and often free events or entertainment, perfect for unwinding after a busy afternoon.
USD0, 1h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at John's Pizzeria on Bleecker Street

Finish your day with classic New York-style pizza from John's, a family-friendly spot with no seafood options and great for teenagers and adults alike.
USD15-25 per person, 1h15m
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Day 2: Central Park and Museums

New York City, USA on June 17, 2025

9:30am

Walk and Explore Central Park

Spend the morning walking around the park’s highlights such as Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and Sheep Meadow. Free nature and cityscape experiences suitable for all ages.
USD0, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at The Smith

American comfort food with vegetarian and chicken options, located close to the park, offers an inviting atmosphere for families without seafood on the menu.
USD20-30 per person, 1h0m

1:30pm

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

Spend the afternoon at The Met exploring world-class art collections with free admission pay-what-you-wish policy. Lots of exhibits to engage teenagers and adults alike.
Pay-what-you-wish suggested $30 adults, free under 12, 3h0m

5:00pm

Relax on the Great Lawn in Central Park

Return to Central Park to relax or have an informal picnic with snacks, enjoying the outdoors and family relaxation before dinner.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant

Family-style Italian dining with large portions perfect for sharing, no seafood focus, located near the theatre district.
USD30-40 per person, 1h30m
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Day 3: Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn

New York City, USA on June 18, 2025

9:00am

Visit the 9/11 Memorial

Pay respects at the touching and beautifully designed memorial pools at the former Twin Towers site; a quiet, profound experience suitable for all ages.
USD0, 1h0m

10:15am

Walk around Wall Street and the Financial District

Explore historical landmarks including the Charging Bull and Federal Hall for iconic NYC photo opportunities. This is a free walking activity in Lower Manhattan.
USD0, 1h0m

11:30am

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge to Brooklyn

Enjoy a scenic stroll across the historic Brooklyn Bridge with fantastic Manhattan skyline views, a memorable and free family experience.
USD0, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Juliana's Pizza, Brooklyn

Enjoy renowned New York-style pizzas with a family-friendly atmosphere away from seafood options, located near Brooklyn Bridge Park.
USD20-30 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park

Relax and enjoy waterfront views and recreational areas including playgrounds. The park is free and great for all ages.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Manhattan and rest at hotel

Head back to your hotel Casablanca to rest and refresh for dinner.
USD0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Shake Shack (Midtown)

Casual dining with great burgers, chicken, and vegetarian options in a fun setting that appeals to teens and adults.
USD15-25 per person, 1h0m
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Day 4: Upper West Side & Times Square

New York City, USA on June 19, 2025

9:30am

American Museum of Natural History

Explore one of the world’s best natural history museums with fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, human cultures and the cosmos. Perfect for families and free with suggested donation.
Suggested donation USD28 adults, USD16 youth, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Good Enough to Eat

A homestyle American restaurant on the Upper West Side offering hearty dishes with no seafood, excellent for families.
USD20-30 per person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Walk through Riverside Park

Enjoy a scenic and peaceful walk along the Hudson River with views and green space for all ages in this free urban park.
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to Times Square for shopping and sights

Spend late afternoon exploring shops, souvenir stores, and street performances, enjoying the lively atmosphere one last time.
USD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Carmine's Times Square

Celebrate your final evening with family-style Italian dining in Times Square, offering delicious options without seafood.
USD30-40 per person, 1h30m
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