New York Harbour And Statue Of Liberty Evening Cruise
Downtown New York is stunning from the water by day, but the sight of the harbour and skyline at night is one of those experiences that will stay with you long after youve gone home.
GetYourGuide.com has an hour-long cruise after sunset, with running commentary imparting titbits you might not have known.
The cruise departs from Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, and arcs around Lower Manhattan to take in the Statue of Liberty, the forest of skyscrapers including the likes of One World Trade Center, and then under the Brooklyn Bridge and up as far as the Empire State Building.
Head Out On An Exciting Scavenger Hunt In Central Park
On this highly entertaining one and a half hour adventure, a series of clues will lead you around Central Park, getting you to perform physical and mental challenges along the way. There will be prizeseach member of the winning team will receive a New York City gift package. Spend the day hunting through NYCs famously massive park with your friends or meet new ones!
Visit A Tropical Rainforest Inside The Ford Foundation Building
When you picture some of NYCs most immortal green spaces, I bet Central Park is one of the first places that comes to mind.
However:
Dare to venture beyond the somewhat plain, industrial feeling exterior of the NYCs Ford Foundation building, and youll discover a lush oasis of greenery that is just waiting to be discovered by an intrepid traveler such as yourself.
Built-in 1967 by Kevin Roche and John Binkeloo:
The glass and steel atrium of this twelve-story office building is filled with more than 39 different species of shrubs, vines, and trees.
Creating a botanical wonderland of sloping garden terraces that is the perfect place for a bit of quiet, contemplation.
Take a well-deserved step away from the chaos of the city and stand in awe of an almost magical garden that stretches all the way to the roof on two sides.
While inside:
You can also admire the gardens quaint reflection pool and enjoy a beautiful fountain, which provides guests with a unique, reverberation effect.
And added bonus?
There are even a wealth of audio descriptions along the gardens footpaths that help describe exactly what youre looking at.
Plus:
Real, NYC rainfall is actually collected from the roof and used to create moisture-rich, atmospheric conditions that help support the growth of all this amazing plant life.
Because yeah:
This New York City hidden gem really is THAT,next-level awesome.
Address: 320 East 43rd Street, New York, New York, 10017
Price: FREE!
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Watch New Yorks Famous Nightclub Acts At Rose Room
Featuring the citys underground circus scene and some of its best nightclubs acts such as Cirque Du Soleil and Broadway, the Rose Room at Triad Triangle is the right place to absorb New Yorks nightlife.
This circus and variety nightclub also serves award-winning cuisines from across the globe and premium cocktails, as you enjoy magic acts, burlesque and more.
Enjoy The Sunset In Long Island City
Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is one of the citys hotspots during the summer months. Nowhere else can you enjoy the sunset in the middle of the locals on a meadow with skyline view more beautiful than in Long Island City. By the way: Alcohol consumption is not allowed in public in New York. So dont get caught with a can of beer or a Prosecco, that could be expensive.
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Ellis Island National Museum Of Immigration
The point of arrival for 12 million immigrants to the United States between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island is a short boat trip via Statue Cruises at Battery Park.
To give you an idea of the importance of this site, the descendants of these immigrants account for nearly half of the entire population of the United States.
Dating to 1900, the main building of the immigration station complex houses the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration.
Just outside, the Wall of Honour lists some of the people to have been processed here.
Within the Renaissance Revival building theres a wealth of information panels, artefacts, photographs, videos, oral histories and interactive stations.
The audio tour has more than 120 hours worth of content, going into detail on what it was like to pass through Ellis Island, how America was populated in the 19th and 20th centuries, and immigration in the present day.
Just like Broadway is synonymous with musical theatre, Fifth Avenue means luxury and prestige.
New Yorks most refined artery is the eastern boundary to Central Park and cuts past a staggering amount of things on this list, be it the Empire State Building or the Frick Collection.
There are specific stretches that demand a visit, like the park-side blocks between 59th and 96th Street.
From 82nd to 105th Streets is Museum Mile, loaded with nine prestigious museums almost side by side, including The Met and the Guggenheim.
Visit The Ganesh Temple Of Queens
The first thing you need to know about this enormous, intricately carved, Hindu temple in Flushing, Queens?
That they serve some of the most amazing dosas ever in their basement canteen.
And the second thing that you should know about the Ganesh Temple of Queens?
They do not allow photography and have a relatively strict dress code.
Your shoulders and legs must be covered at all times while inside the temple.
Therefore:
No tank tops or shorts of any kind.
You must also take off your shoes prior to stepping inside and cannot wear animal products of any kind.
So yeah, no fur or leather either.
Although:
If you do arrive a bit scantily clad that you can always rent a pair of baggy pants on-site.
However:
Once you are dressed appropriately and are ready to enter, youll quickly see that this stunning temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Ganesha.
Thats why:
Everywhere you look youll find images of this Gods distinctive, elephant-shaped head carved out of imported Indian granite and draped in colorful garlands of flowers.
A vibrant, religious structure that was erected in the 1970s and that became the first traditional Hindu temple in the United States.
Today though:
It serves as the official home to the Hindu Temple Society of North America and is now easily one of the most unusual things to do in NYC.
Address: 45-57 Bowne Street, Queens, New York, 11355
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm and on Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm.
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Spyscape Another Cool Place To Visit In Nyc With Kids
I already mentioned the American Museum of Natural History, one of the best museums in NYC. Another interactive exhibit is SPYSCAPE, an immersive world of spy gadgets, secret codes, and physical and mental challenges. Its definitely one of the top family activities in New York, especially if your kids need to release some energy!
8. SPYSCAPE, another cool place to visit in NYC with kids
SPYSCAPE will make your kids feel like theyre working as special operations agents as they figure out different spy devices, navigate laser tunnels, and interrogate suspects. While its a contemporary museum, SPYSCAPE is different because it was created with the help of psychologists and a former head of British Intelligence.
Participants can take a specially-designed profiling test to determine which spy roles and tasks best suit their personality and skills. Then, they can learn the relevant techniques and tools as they go through the different challenges at SPYSCAPE. Its one of the best NYC attractions for families, so I recommend purchasing your ticket in advance.
Serra By Birrreria Rooftop Bar
And that makes sense when you realize that this enchanting bar is also fifteen stories above every NYers favorite Italian restaurant/grocery, Eataly, which is ALSO run by Mario Batali.
And since you have to go through Eataly to get to Serra anyway, might as well stop for a snack and try the Burrata.
Go on, I dare you not to swoon on the spot.
When youre finally ready to tear yourself away from that cheesy goodness, take the elevator onwards and upwards to a veritable paradise of Instagram perfection.
Yes, my friends, this bar is THAT beautiful .
But, it gets better. See, while Serra literally means rooftop in Italian, the second part of this bars name actually changes with the seasons, as does the decor.
Thats why:
Throughout the winter, this bar is known as Serra Alpina, a chic, Alpine-themed, rooftop bar that resembles a cozy little Swiss chateau, nestled in the Alps.
And if winters not your scene?
Then stop by during the spring, when this bar blossoms into Serra Fiorita, a flowering greenhouse of exquisite botanical bliss that will not disappoint.
No really.
It basically looks like a florist blew up all over the place, but in the most charming way possible.
And while the food is good, its not great.
I mean, I ordered the farro salad with parmesan for $15 and it was alright, but it didnt exactly BLOW my mind
Therefore:
Address: 200 5th Ave, New York, NY
Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 11:30 am to 10 pm and Friday and Saturday from 11:30 am to 11 pm.
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Bastille Day In New York
On July 14, New York celebrates the French Independence Day. There are many events all over the city that revolve around the theme of France. Most events are free and many are family friendly as well.
Enjoy French food , live music and many different street festivals spread throughout the city. Here you can find all information about the events on Bastille Day in New York.
Sightsee At Little Island
You must reserve a free admission timed ticket to access this modernized public pier park, but rest assured that this is a trip that is worth it. This is a renovated version of the pier that used to be used as the main proponent in the shipping and handling of goods coming into the city by boat.
This newly reimagined space now has lush green surroundings with flowers, amphitheaters for events, and even hosts art festivals. You can visit this Little Island for free and have access to most of the events being hosted by the island such as art festivals and outdoor performances at the amphitheater. This is an exciting way to experience a natural outdoor art renovation that is becoming a popular New York City standout.
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Best Hotels In Nyc For Families With Kids
Since there is so much family fun in New York City, I suggest staying overnight so you can take advantage of everything. These are my top recommendations for where to sleep in NYC if youre traveling with kids:
- TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South has nice family rooms so everyone can sleep comfortably.
- Sohotel is another great option thats close to family attractions in New York, like the Childrens Museum of the Arts.
You can find more hotels and accommodations for families in our guide on where to stay in NYC.
Thats it from me! Now you have 15 awesome things to do in NYC with kids, so theres no way theyll be saying Im bored during your trip! To make things even easier, you can download this NYC tourist map with all the New York family attractions and hotels I mentioned.
If you have any questions or youd like to share your New York family vacation ideas, leave me a comment below. Have a safe trip!
Hone Your Secret Agent Skills At Spyscape
Channel your inner supersleuth and dive into the mysterious world of spies at this interactive museum. 007 fans love the James Bond exhibition which includes one of the original cars.
Uncover the truth about codebreaking and discover real-life gadgets used out in the field. You will be tasked with several Skyscape challenges, so get ready to crack clues and tackle laser rooms.
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Visit The Hall Of Fame For Great Americans
Okay, another fun little factoid for you.
This little hall of fame in the Bronx?
Well:
it was actually the first hall of fame ever to be built in the United States.
And although it currently sits on the campus of the Bronx Community College:
It was originally designed by famed Gilded Age architect, Stanford White, in 1901 as part of NYUs uptown campus.
Built atop the highest natural peak in NYC:
This semicircular, natural arch offers guests impressive, panoramic views of the Harlem River, the Cloisters, and Fort Tryon Park.
If you do visit this enchanting, open-air sculpture gallery, you can marvel at an impressive 630 foot, open-air Colonnade that is lined with 96 bronze, portrait busts of uber-famous Americans.
I mean:
Were talking total icons of the past like George Washington Carver , Lillian D. Wald , Charlotte Saunders Cushman , Edgar Allen Poe , George Peabody , etc.
But the best part?
Youll be the only one there since this place is largely unknown to locals and tourists alike, making it one of my fave unusual things to do in NYC.
***FYI, you will need to have a valid picture ID to gain access to the college campus.***
Address: 2167 University Ave, Bronx, New York, 10453
Hours: Open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.
How to Get There: Take the 4 train to 183 Street station and walk to the hall of fame from there.
Visit American Dream Mall An Exciting Thing To Do In New York City With Kids
Another thing to do as a family in NYC is to visit American Dream Mall. This is a good option if the weather is bad, or you want to get out of the city center for a bit. Its in East Rutherford, New Jersey, about 30 minutes from Manhattan.
The American Dream Mall is a shopping and entertainment complex, so it appeals to kids and adults. Here, you can shop at over 400 stores, eat at over 100 restaurants and cafes, and see dozens of pop-up art installations and museums.
6. Visit American Dream Mall, an exciting thing to do in New York City with kids
Among the top attractions here are the Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park, the DreamWorks Indoor Water Park, and the LEGOLAND Discovery Center, which is perfect for families with young children. There are other family activities like movies, blacklight mini-golf, Angry Birds mini-golf, indoor ice skating, a Mirror Maze, indoor skiing, bowling, and rock climbing.
Moreover, the TiLT Museum is a fun thing to do with teenagers in NYC, so you can find something for everyone at this huge complex.
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Visit The Morgan Library
Not too far from the Empire State Building, the Morgan Library was once the private library on JP Morgan.
After his death, he wrote it into his will that he wanted it opened to the public to enjoy, which is why, almost one-hundred years later, you can explore it.
Now, you do need to pay a small fee for entrance, but its totally worth if for a stroll around the reading room and library itself.
A visit here might take about fifty minutes, so its easily one of the best things to do in Manhattan if you need a little break from the hustle and bustle of the streets.
It really is worth a visit and its so grand.
Have A Drink At Goldbar A Swank Af Night Club Beddazled In Gold Skulls
Have an unhealthy obsession with all things Investigation Discovery as you attempt to satisfy your never-ending lust for the macabre?
If so then this is the bar of your Hannibal Lecter-style dreams.
Because NoLitas famed GoldBar is bedazzled with no less than thousands of gold-encrusted skulls.
Add in a fair few, super-luxe, 12, vaulted ceilings that are encrusted with gold leaf and you have a 2,500 square foot club/bar space that all the cool kids crave.
And did I mention?
This vibrant, posh AF bar also showcases some opulent beyond belief, crystal chandeliers that help make this one of the most luxurious after-hour spots in all of NYC.
However:
Truth be told, the glitz and glam is about all this place has going for it since the music is loud, the crowd pretentious, the staff less than helpful, and the drinks mediocre at best .
But:
If youre absolutely dying to visit this place for yourself, then do try to get here right when they open at 11:00 pm to avoid all the late-night debauchery that will ensue.
That being said though:
Do take everything I say with a huge grain of salt since I am old AF, love my granny panties, relate to the Golden Girls on a personal level, and like to be home by 10:00 pm at the latest.
Which is why:
I seriously doubt that I am their target demographic.
Although:
I have heard good things about their Ginger Mint Aphrodisiac, which features Grey Goose infused with horny goat weed, diner syrup, fresh lemon juice, and Perrier.
#justsayin
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Be Entertained On The Ride
Climb on board this interactive bus for a show-stopping evening of revelry and entertainment. Combine sightseeing with live shows as you tour the streets, and enjoy front row seats thanks to the panoramic windows.
Sit back and relax as comedians, dancers, and singers all vie for your attention. Want to show off your own talents? Then join in the onboard karaoke for a light-hearted sing-off.
Visit The Bronx Museum Of Art
Another great family activity is to visit the Bronx Museum of Art, which is free to all visitors, any time. This museum is home to many different mediums of art such as painting, drawing, performance, and sculpture. This museum focuses on social constructs and contains many pieces that tell a story about injustices and the effects they have on certain populations. This is an eye-opening experience that the whole family can include themselves in to learn about the local culture and social issues overall in an artistic form. This museum also hosts live performance art, which is free with your registration to the event of your choice.
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