The Top 10 Things to Kids This Summer
New York City is the city everyone deserves to experience at least once. There’s something for everyone in the Big Apple so don’t let your kids miss out on their slice. Traveling with kids may be difficult and finding appropriate attractions may be even harder but it is possible to do. From tall city buildings to vast green parks New York City is always exciting, so make sure your kids see that side too. Here are some activities that will satisfy any kid’s Big Apple appetite and keep you adults interested too.
1. Broadway Shows
Let the performers leave you and your kids in awe with a magnificent show earning Broadway status. See classics this summer such as The Lion King, Annie, and Cinderella or for a little more action there is Newsies and Spider-man. Kids will talk about the performances long after it’s over and with shows playing both on and off Broadway, there will always be something the whole family will enjoy.
2. Central Park
A staple landmark of the City, and a big one at that, Central Park is must see for all visitors and residents. It’s beautiful scenery is perfect for a stroll at any time of day. Grab some food nearby and picnic in the park, take a walking/biking tour or check out one of the summer series events featuring theater performances and more. The landscape offers plenty to explore and there are 21 playgrounds throughout the park.
3. American Museum of Natural History
This museum is definitely for the whole family. You’re never too young to appreciate the wonders of everything that lived before us or too old to be fascinated by a huge dinosaur’s skeleton. There is no chance of running out of things to see and learn about with 27 connected buildings holding 45 exhibition halls of permanent and limited edition exhibits.
4. Baseball Games
Take them out to a ballgame at Citi Field or the Yankee Stadium. Summer means warm weather and what better way to enjoy it than outside at a baseball game. Go for a chance at that dream (whether it’s yours or your kid’s) of catching a foul ball. Go to cheer on the home team and grab a bite of classic ballpark franks. But go together and make it a special summer event!
5. Statue of Liberty
The famous landmark will be a visit your kids will never forget and the photo ready scene will make it quite literally unforgettable. Take a tour on the Hudson with Lady Liberty in the skyline or climb to the top of the statue. The attraction is closed until July 4th because of damage from Hurricane Sandy. Once visitors are allowed back on the island NYC will be whole once again!
6. FAO Schwarz
Carl Allen says every pretty girl deserves to go to a ball and Schwarz says that every kid deserves to go to a legendary toy world. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself just as interested in the famous store as the kids are. Inside FAO Schwarz, massive displays of toys, games and gadgets are awe inspiring and to save you some (a lot of) money tell the little ones it’s a toy museum!
7. New York Aquarium
Located on Coney Island, the New York Aquarium is the only major aquarium in NYC. They have tons of exhibits including outdoor touch pools and sea lion entertainment shows. It’s a great price for the experience and it’s right on the boardwalk of Coney Island which offers more attractions for all day fun.
8. New York Hall of Science
This is the perfect museum for families for many reason but mainly because visitors are encouraged to touch everything. This is relieving for parents trying to respect museum policies and exciting for kids who love hands-on activities. Not just geared towards kids, adults are sure to learn about all the science and technology as well.
9. Bronx Zoo
The world’s largest urban zoo features more than 600 species from around the globe. Visit some or all of their world class exhibits such as the Congo Gorilla Forest, the Wild Asia Monorail, Tiger Mountain and newly added Madagascar! (exclamation included to explain the excitement). Everyone loves the zoo and you don’t have to go far from other attractions for this one, saving you precious vacation time!
10. Empire State Building
This 102-story skyscraper is an architectural masterpiece. Once you’re inside and shooting up to it’s 86th floor it becomes a telescope for NYC. The observation deck offers a bird-eye view of the whole city. The dizzying views and ant-like perception of the Big City will keep all of its visitors amazed and entertained.
Don’t downplay your New York City trip because the kids are coming along. If anything, attractions made just for kids are even more fun and more place than you think will be fun for them! Pick attractions that the whole family wants to go to, NYC is full of them.
