New York City Family Trip Itinerary: July 1 - July 6, 2025

Day 1: Arrival & Evening Dinner (Tuesday, July 1)

Morning: Travel day - prepare for arrival and settle in at the Hotel Edison on Broadway, Midtown.

Afternoon: Arrival at LGA at 5:20 PM. Transfer to hotel and check-in.

Evening: Enjoy a fun and lively dinner at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, famous for its singing waitstaff and Broadway-themed atmosphere, perfect to start your NYC adventure with your 13-year-old son.

Day 2: Midtown Manhattan Exploration (Wednesday, July 2)

Morning: Visit the iconic Empire State Building for spectacular city views—go early to avoid lines.

Afternoon: Head to the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to explore contemporary art that can inspire and engage a young teen.

Evening: Casual stroll around Rockefeller Center and enjoy the vibes of the area; if time permits, visit the Top of the Rock observation deck or enjoy shopping nearby.

Day 3: Downtown & Financial District (Thursday, July 3)

Morning: Explore Wall Street and the 9/11 Memorial, a meaningful and educational visit for both of you.

Afternoon: Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, taking photos and enjoying the skyline views. Then, explore DUMBO neighborhood for some relaxed sightseeing and waterfront views.

Evening: Dinner in DUMBO or return to Midtown for dinner near the hotel.

Day 4: 4th of July Celebration (Friday, July 4)

Morning: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (book tickets in advance), which will be engaging history for your son.

Afternoon: Return to Manhattan, enjoy a picnic or casual walk in Battery Park.

Evening: Experience a family-friendly 4th of July fireworks celebration near the East River or Hudson River waterfront — many public viewing spots available; plan early for transportation and comfort.

Day 5: Upper West & Midtown Shopping & Nature (Saturday, July 5)

Morning: Visit the American Museum of Natural History on the Upper West Side—great for kids and adults alike.

Afternoon: Spend time in Central Park, with highlights like the Central Park Zoo or just relaxing in the greenery.

Evening: Head back toward Midtown for some fun shopping: explore the M&M’s World and the Nintendo Store on 5th Avenue for unique souvenirs and interactive fun.

Day 6: Broadway & Midtown Free Day (Sunday, July 6)

Morning: Take it easy, explore neighborhood cafés or streets around Hotel Edison.

Afternoon: Free time to relax or visit small shops, museums, or parks at your own pace before your evening plans.

Evening: Enjoy your booked Broadway show (no other activities planned).

Time and Cost Estimates

• Empire State Building: 1.5-2 hours, ~$44/adult, ~$38/child
• MoMA: 2 hours, ~$25/adult, free or reduced for teens
• Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock option): 1-1.5 hours, ~$40/adult, ~$34/child
• Wall Street & 9/11 Memorial: 2 hours, free for Wall Street and memorial grounds; 9/11 Museum optional tickets ~$26/adult, ~$15/child
• Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO: 3 hours, free
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island ferry: 4 hours, ~$25/adult, ~$16/child
• 4th of July Fireworks: Free (public viewing)
• American Museum of Natural History: 3 hours, suggested donation ~$28/adult, $16/child
• Central Park: Flexible time, free (extra activities like zoo ~$14/adult, ~$9/child)
• M&M’s World & Nintendo Store shopping: Flexible, depends on purchases

Total Estimated Cost (excluding food, transport, shopping): approx. $280 - $350 per person

Tips

• To extend the trip: Consider adding a day dedicated entirely to Brooklyn with options like Prospect Park, Brooklyn Museum, or Brooklyn Botanic Garden for relaxing exploration beyond busy Manhattan.
• To shorten the trip: Combine Midtown highlights (Empire State, Rockefeller, and shopping) into one day and skip the MoMA or swap it for a quicker visit to Times Square and simpler museums.
• With a teenager, keep transit times limited and build in frequent snack/rest breaks to sustain energy for walking and exploring.
• Book Statue of Liberty and 4th of July fireworks locations early as these are high-demand experiences.