My NYC Mom Map

We’re lucky to live close to the city, and over the years we’ve built up a list of our favorite kid-friendly activities in NYC. Whether you're planning a special birthday or just looking for something fun to do on the weekend, here are our family favorites.

The Beast

We did this for my twins’ birthday one year and absolutely loved it. It’s not for little kids—it goes super fast, and you get soaked—but it’s SO much fun. It’s also a surprisingly cool way to see the city, with a pass by the Statue of Liberty. The ride is the perfect amount of time too, not too long and not too short.

Central Park Zoo

Small enough that you won’t spend the whole day there, but interactive enough that it’s always a hit. Definitely one of my favorite things to do in the city with younger kids. I highly recommend getting a zoo membership—it pays for itself after one visit!

Bronx Zoo

Part of the same membership as Central Park Zoo, and absolutely worth the trip. You can spend the entire day here. We love following it up with a stop on Arthur Avenue for a delicious lunch.

American Girl Store

My girls are obsessed. It’s right in Rockefeller Center, and they make lunch a fun experience—even giving your doll a high chair. The food isn’t anything to write home about, but for birthdays or special occasions, it’s really fun.

FAO Schwarz

The best toy store—hands down. The staff is always demonstrating toys, and they carry the coolest stuff. It gets crazy during the holidays, but it’s worth it.

Central Park

There’s nothing better than wandering around Central Park. Every section has something new to offer. A few months ago, I rented bikes with my mom and daughter, and it was the best way to explore more of the park than we could on foot. Highly recommend!

Broadway Show

I’m not a huge Broadway person, but the whole experience is magical. We saw The Lion King last year, and it was a 10/10. If you’re in NYC, catching a show is definitely worth it.

Children’s Museum of Manhattan

One of my favorite weekday spots! We're about 15 minutes from the Upper West Side, and I usually find parking right outside. It’s rarely too crowded and is FREE for city workers, which is a nice bonus.

American Museum of Natural History

Not quite as hands-on as the Children’s Museum, but still a must-visit if you're in the city. So much to see!

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater

If your kids aren’t quite ready for a full Broadway show, this is a great option. We've been to two shows here and both were adorable—super engaging for younger kids.

Chelsea Market

Great food, great shopping, and fun little stores that my kids love exploring. A nice spot to grab a bite and wander.

Brooklyn Bridge

We love starting on the Brooklyn side, grabbing pizza and ice cream, and then walking over the bridge into Manhattan. We usually end at O’Hara’s (a great Irish bar) for the adults.

Wave Hill

This is close to us and a peaceful spot to visit. Honestly a little boring for kids, but they host a fun kids’ craft every Saturday and Sunday that makes it worth the trip.

Botanical Gardens

Gorgeous year-round. I personally think the zoo is more exciting for kids, but they still have a great time here—especially in spring and early fall.

Statue of Liberty

I haven’t been in 20 years, but my girls went recently with their grandparents and had a great time. They were glad they went—but called it a “one-time thing,” which honestly feels pretty accurate!

Yankee Stadium

There’s nothing like a Yankee game. We take the Metro-North in, and my kids are obsessed. My boys just started going on their own and it’s their favorite thing to do.

Coney Island

We love it here. Nathan’s hot dogs, the Aquarium, the Cyclone, a Cyclones game, and the freak show—it’s a full day of fun and definitely worth the trip.

Sur La Table Cooking Class

There’s a Sur La Table on 57th Street and I recently did a donut-making class with my daughter. I’ve taken several classes there, and they’ve all been great!

Wandering the Village

I love wandering around the Village and popping into little shops. It’s such a fun area to explore with kids or on your own.

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

I haven’t been in years, but it’s one of my husband’s favorite places to go with the kids. A must if your kids are into planes, ships, or space!

Strand Bookstore

A massive used bookstore—and a dream for book lovers. I always find great used cookbooks here.

Let me know if you try any of these or have other family favorites in the city! We’re always looking for new adventures. I love hearing from you guys so please share!!!!

Talk soon,

Mary