New York is a fascinating city and a superb destination for a family trip! So, how to visit New York with family and children? What are the must-sees not to be missed? Here are the top 20 things to do with family in New York in 7 or 10 days. Let’s go!
What to do in New York in 7 or 10 days?
Discover our TOP 20 of the best things to do in New York in 7 or 10 days.
1. See the fantastic lights of Times Square
Times Square is undoubtedly the most touristy place in New York! But it’s always well worth the visit. Day or night, Times Square is one of the symbols of New York that you cannot miss.
2. Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty are even more symbolic than Times Square. This is where migrants from all over the world arrived to settle in the United States. You can visit the island and its museum or cruise to see the Statue of Liberty up close. You can book tickets here.
3. Go up a skyscraper
Among the most iconic skyscrapers in New York is the Empire State Building. Open to the public in 1931, the Empire State Building was, at the time and for more than a decade, the tallest building in the world. However, today, at 381 meters, it is not even the tallest building in New York.
It’s not just the Empire State Building offering a magnificent New York view. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is an excellent alternative; you might even like it more. Plus, it’s a more interactive visit. Whatever your choice, buying tickets in advance or using the City Pass (we talk about it in the “tips” section below) allows you to save time.
4. Visit the New York Natural History Museum
If you’re visiting New York with family, the Natural History Museum is a must-see! It’s an outing that you will all love. The City Pass comprises tickets to this museum, but you can also buy them individually. In any case, as this is a highly visited place in New York, our advice is to book in advance.
5. Have a picnic in Central Park
Just steps away from the Natural History Museum is one of the world’s most famous and legendary parks: Central Park! It’s a perfect place for a walk and a relaxing time. Not to forget, of course, the Central Park Zoo! Do the names Alex, Marty, Gloria, and Melman ring a bell? Yes, the adventures of the animals from the Madagascar movies start in the Central Park Zoo!
6. Walk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is less than 2 km long and connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. Both directions of the bridge are interesting, but it’s often advised to walk from Brooklyn to Manhattan. This way, you can better appreciate the enormity of New York City. The Brooklyn Bridge is a must if you spend 7 or 10 days in New York!
7. Visit the September 11 memorial in New York
September 11, 2021, is a date that marked the history of New York, the United States, and also the entire world. Today, you can visit the 9/11 memorial, which is dedicated to the victims of the attacks on the twin towers of the World Trade Center.
8. Visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
This museum is dedicated to the maritime, aerospace, and military history of the United States. It’s an enjoyable visit to do in New York as a family. Discover more information on the museum’s website.
9. Discover the incredible stores on Broadway and 5th Avenue
If you’re visiting New York with your family, don’t miss the magical shops of 5th Avenue! For example, you can see the extraordinary stores of well-known brands such as M&M’s, Nintendo, Disney, and Lego here.
10. Lunch at Chelsea Market
The Chelsea Market is a fantastic place to discover another facet of Manhattan and have lunch! Here, you’ll have a wide choice of world cuisines. It often gets busy, so it’s best to plan for a quick lunch.
11. Discover New York from the High Line
To get to Chelsea Market, you can go through the High Line. This elevated park is a very cool place to walk in New York. An ideal green space to get some fresh air!
12. Go to Little Island Park or Hudson River Park
Speaking of green spaces, there are other exciting places to visit in New York as a family to unwind. For example, Little Island or Hudson River Park. Come here to spend a pleasant time with the family! These two parks are handy as they are located near the New York High Line.
13. Fly over New York in a helicopter
What to do that’s exceptional in New York? Fly over Manhattan in a helicopter! The experience is extraordinary, the views fantastic, and the memories unforgettable. This is a superb activity for a remarkable trip to New York (see rates here).
14. Visiting the Bronx Zoo in New York
Among the best things to do in New York with family is visiting the Bronx Zoo! With its 107 hectares, it’s one of the United States’ largest zoos and even the country’s biggest urban zoo! Plan at least 5 hours for this visit. Find more information on the Bronx Zoo website.
15. Visiting the MOMA Museum in New York with family
This museum is an ideal place to discover modern art. Admission is free for children under 16. As it is one of the most visited places in New York, consider booking tickets in advance.
16. See The Oculus
The Oculus is a magnificent structure that is a must-see in New York. It is here where 12 subway lines converge. The Oculus thus sees hundreds of thousands of people pass through every day. Its extravagant architecture is well worth the detour.
17. Watch a game at Madison Square Garden
Attending a game at Madison Square Garden is a fantastic activity to do in New York. This arena is located right in the center of Manhattan. Discover the schedule on the Madison Square Garden website.
18. Visit the New York Public Library
Among the most beautiful places to see, we cannot omit the New York Library! Its interiors are impressive. It’s the second-largest public library. It is just a few minutes walk from the Empire State Building. The visit is free.
19. Discover street art in New York
This is a fun activity to do in New York with teenagers. You will find the best New York street art in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn.
20. Take the Roosevelt Island Tramway
If you’re visiting New York for 8, 9, or 10 days, you can see the city from a new angle thanks to the Roosevelt Island Tramway. This cable car is part of New York City’s public transportation. A fun moment to experience with the family!
Tips for Visiting New York with Family
Here are some essential tips to remember when traveling to New York.
- New York is a vast city. However, on the island of Manhattan, most places to visit and things to do are concentrated. It’s the most central borough for staying and visiting New York in 7 or 10 days.
- If you do several paid visits in New York, consider getting the New York City Pass. The pass includes the must-see sites, and the rates are more interesting, as a 40% discount applies. Find the latest information on the New York City Pass here.
- The best approach is to visit Manhattan and its different neighborhoods bit by bit and to cluster visits as much as possible. Crossing Manhattan can take time, so it’s best to optimize travel.
Where to Stay When Visiting New York with Family
Manhattan is the ideal borough to stay in when visiting New York. However, you might also stay in Brooklyn if the accommodation is near the subway and offers lower rates. Read our article Where to Stay in New York (Coming Soon) to learn more.
New York is a superb destination for a family trip. Museums, skyscrapers, ambiance: it’s excellent for creating beautiful memories together!
