With its skyscrapers, world-renowned museums, international landmarks, and bright lights of Broadway, there’s almost too much to see and do in New York City. It may be big and bustling, but New York City is just a small town at heart, and actually perfect for family travel. There is something for everyone here, with charming old neighborhoods just footsteps away striking modern design, exotic cuisine across the street from down-home cooking, and arguably one of the best mass-transportation systems in the world to take you anywhere you want to go. Here are five of our family favorites from DK Eyewitness Travel's Top Ten New York.
Artifacts and screenings show the history and techniques of film and TV, and hands-on exhibits such as stop-motion animation, sound mixing, and editing give kids a behind-the-scenes look at real movie magic. Check out the short film screenings at Tut’s Fever Movie Palace, and look online for special kids programming.
Expect to be awed by this ultimate toy store selling giant stuffed animals to the last word in action toys. This wonderland of fun was founded by German immigrant Frederick August Otto Schwarz in 1862 and is now the flagship store for over 40 U.S. locations. Kids love looking, but be prepared to be wheedled into a purchase.
America's largest city zoo offers authentic environments for exhibits such as the Himalayan Highlands, African Plains, Jungle World, the Congo Gorilla Forest, Tiger Mountain, and newest attraction Madagascar! All enclosures are easily reached via shuttle trains and elevated rides.
Obama, George Washington, Derek Jeter, Beyonce, and Madonna are among the many wax inhabitants of this Times Square staple. Get the kids up close to their favorite celebs and snap away like the paparazzi—photos are encouraged!
Myriad activities for kids include storytelling, carousel rides, bike riding, boating, ice-skating, nature workshops, and guided walks. The Central Park Zoo is excellent, not too large in size and the Tisch Children's Zoo allows petting and feeding of farm animals. Maps, events, and more can be found on their website.
Hours: Central Park closes at 1:00 am and opens at 6:00 am, 365 days a year.
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