Make Magic in New York City
By: Lisa Jonsson of Luxe Scout Travel
While New York City might not immediately spring to mind as a top vacation destination for kids, it's a bustling metropolis bursting with opportunities for family fun and exploration. From marveling at the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan to immersing yourselves in the cultural tapestry of neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy, the Big Apple offers something to captivate every member of your family. Treat your kids to the magic of Broadway, and indulge in delectable treats at iconic eateries such as High Tea at the Plaza. Embark on mind-blowing shopping adventures. With its boundless energy and endless opportunities for exploration, NYC promises an unforgettable experience that will leave your family with cherished memories for years to come.
Where to Stay:
Choosing the right neighborhood is crucial when visiting NYC with kids and teens. The Upper East Side, Upper West Side, or Midtown are my favorite areas to stay, offering convenient access to major attractions and family-friendly amenities. If you're traveling with young children still in strollers or car seats, keep in mind that elevators in subway stations are sparse and often out of service. Opt for a lightweight stroller and try to stay within walking distance of your must-see attractions to minimize travel time. Luxury hotels like the Plaza, Mandarin Oriental, 1 Hotel Central Park, and Lotte New York Palace cater to families with special amenities and services, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.
When to Go:
There is almost never a bad time to visit NYC, but my favorite time to go is Thanksgiving. There's no better time to immerse your family in the magic of the holiday season than Thanksgiving weekend in the Big Apple. The magic of the holidays gets kicked off with Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade. If getting up before 5 am to secure a spot along the parade route doesn’t sound appealing, there are a variety of private view parties and VIP bleachers that allow you to watch the parade in comfort. It's also possible to secure a hotel room or suite with views of the parade. Numerous restaurants along the parade route offer lavish breakfast buffets and bottomless mimosas, along with face-painting, ballon-making, and other activities to engage children- all while keeping warm. If you want to be steeped in the excitement of crowds, the VIP bleacher seats in front of Macy’s are the ultimate viewing spot, but you’ll need a travel advisor with connections because not even Amex concierge services can help you get these coveted tickets.
Insider Tip: Book now for Thanksgiving weekend. Luxe Scout Travel has very special, hard-to-get tickets to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade, which are located right in front of Macy's and the performances.
Things to Do:
Aside from the obvious must-see attractions like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Times Square, there are a pleura of activities kids and teens will find engaging and exciting. Central Park is an adventure in itself, with multiple playgrounds, a carousel, horse-drawn carriage rides, and ice skating (seasonal). There are world-class museums that offer kid and teen special programming. The Met offers “Teen Only Nights” that feature immersive multidisciplinary experiences, DJs, and dancing. For your more active kids, check out the Bronx Zoo's Treetop Adventure, with side-by-side zip lines spanning 400 feet across the Bronx River and back and seven suspended ropes courses.
No visit to NYC would be complete without a Broadway show. Family-friendly shows like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Wicked, or Aladdin are perfect for introducing your kids to Broadway's magic. Be sure to check the age requirements before buying your tickets because some of the shows (even those that seem kid-themed) have a minimum age requirement. The Rockettes, a must-see while visiting NYC, welcomes children of all ages.
Explore flagship stores like the LEGO Store, Nintendo NYC, and the iconic FAO Schwarz toy store. Create an over-the-top experience at American Girl New York with lunch at the American Girl Café, or treat your family to a private tour of FAO Schwarz led by a Toy Soldier for an extra special experience.
New York City offers an unparalleled blend of excitement, culture, and entertainment for families with kids and teens. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks, enjoying world-class performances, or indulging in delicious treats, NYC promises an unforgettable experience that will leave your family with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags and get ready for the ultimate family adventure in the city that never sleeps!
For personalized travel planning assistance, contact NBL partner and luxury travel specialist Lisa Jonsson, founder of LuxeScoutTravel.com