New York City offers so much for culture buffs and gourmands, but it is also surprisingly fun for kids. While they may not sit still for a two-hour narrated tour of the Guggenheim Museum´s latest show, many children love the urban buzz and streetcorner surprises that New York offers. Put on some comfortable shoes, grab a bottle of water and hit the city streets.
Central Park
The heart of New York City spans 843 acres and is a treasure trove of adventures for children. Run in the meadows, play tag in forest glades, cross wooden bridges, take a boat on the lake, practice riding a bike on trails or grab a picnic in the shade. There are miles of paved paths perfect for strollers. Visit the big Heckscher Playground, recently renovated and full of swings, climbing structures and slides of different sizes and heights. In the summer, the Victorian Gardens becomes a pint-sized amusement park.
Museums
Children are fascinated by the dinosaur models at the American Museum of Natural History, made famous in the movie ¨Night at the Museum.” The Metropolitan Museum of Art also holds great appeal. Although it´s a bit of a hike, the Queens Hall of Science is a great science and discovery museum geared toward younger children.
Empire State Building
Manhattan´s tallest building is 1,450 feet high. You can ride an elevator to access the 86th floor, which has a glassed-in observation deck. Try to hit the Empire State Building early, before the crowds of tourists arrive. Nearby is Bryant Park, a park with rolling green lawns perfect for dining al fresco.
Statue of Liberty
Kids love the boat ride to the Statue of Liberty, but it is a major time commitment. You begin at Battery Park and set sail for Liberty Island. If you make a reservation, you can visit the observation area on the 10th floor. If you do not make a reservation, you can still walk around Liberty Island.
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