3-Day Family Adventure in New York City: Teen-Friendly Itinerary

Day 1: Midtown & Central Park

New York City, USA on June 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Best Bagel & Coffee

Start your day with classic New York bagels and fresh coffee. Located near Midtown, it’s a perfect energizer for a busy city day.
USD10, 0h45m

9:30am

Explore Central Park

Walk, bike, or take a guided pedicab tour through Central Park, visiting iconic spots like Bethesda Fountain and the Central Park Zoo. It’s a relaxing nature escape right in the city.
USD20, 2h0m

11:45am

Visit the American Museum of Natural History

Explore dinosaur fossils, space exhibits, and interactive displays that teenage boys will especially enjoy. This world-class museum is educational and fun for the whole family.
USD28, 2h30m

2:30pm

Lunch at Shake Shack

Dine on classic American burgers and shakes at the nearby Upper West Side location, a favorite spot for families and teens.
USD15, 1h0m

3:45pm

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Head to Rockefeller Center to experience panoramic views of NYC’s skyline including the Empire State Building. It’s a perfect way to visually take in the cityscape.
USD40, 1h15m

5:30pm

Stroll Times Square

Experience the energy of Times Square’s lights, street performers, and shops. This iconic area is a must-see for visitors to New York.
Free, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Carmine’s

Enjoy a family-style Italian meal with large portions perfect for sharing, making it ideal for groups with teenage boys after a long day of sightseeing.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Lower Manhattan & Brooklyn

New York City, USA on June 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Leo’s Bagels

Grab fresh bagels and coffee in Brooklyn to fuel your day of exploration across boroughs.
USD10, 0h45m

9:00am

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying stunning views of the skyline and East River. It’s a great photo opportunity and active fun.
Free, 1h0m

10:15am

Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Explore the moving memorial pools and museum exhibits that tell the story of September 11th, an educational visit for teenagers to learn about this important event.
USD26, 2h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Eataly Downtown

Savor Italian food from various vendors under one roof, offering plenty of options for all tastes including pizza, pasta, and gelato.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore the Oculus and Westfield World Trade Center

Check out the futuristic architecture of the Oculus transit hub and enjoy some shopping or casual browsing in the adjacent mall.
Free, 1h0m

3:15pm

Walk the High Line

Stroll this elevated park built on a historic freight rail line with gardens, art installations, and Hudson River views, perfect for teens interested in urban spaces.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Visit Chelsea Market

Explore food and retail vendors in this popular market for a snack or to grab souvenirs.
Varies, 0h45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer

Known for creative burgers and extravagant milkshakes, it’s a fun and flavorful dinner spot that teenage boys tend to love.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Upper Manhattan & Museums

New York City, USA on June 13, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Good Enough to Eat

Enjoy a hearty American breakfast near Central Park to start the day well-fed.
USD15, 0h45m

9:30am

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Tour kid-friendly exhibits and vast collections from ancient to modern art. The Met has interactive resources tailored for teens.
USD30, 3h0m

12:45pm

Lunch at Shake Shack (Upper East Side location)

Enjoy a quick and tasty burger and shake in a relaxed setting, perfect before continuing the day’s sightseeing.
USD15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit the Guggenheim Museum

Experience contemporary and modern art within the unique spiraling architecture of the Guggenheim. It’s a visual and cultural treat, especially for teens interested in art and design.
USD25, 1h30m

3:45pm

Walk along Museum Mile

Take a leisurely stroll enjoying street music, sampling local vendors, or resting in nearby parks along 5th Avenue.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Explore Harlem’s Apollo Theater

If open for tours, see the legendary music venue where many famous artists performed. Check for evening shows if interested.
USD15, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Sylvia’s

Enjoy classic soul food at this iconic Harlem restaurant, offering comforting dishes that teenagers will appreciate.
USD30, 1h30m
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