Family-Friendly Adventures in New York, NY!

Carnegie Hall

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey to Carnegie Hall, one of New York City"s most storied and enchanting music venues. Begin your adventure by catching the subway to 57th Street and Seventh Avenue, where the hall is conveniently located. If traveling with little ones, consider the excitement of a bus tour that stops nearby, making the trip part of the adventure!

Start your Carnegie Hall experience with a guided tour, available from September through late June. Tours depart from the main lobby off Seventh Avenue and offer a comprehensive look at the history and architecture of this iconic building. Delight in stories about legendary performances from Tchaikovsky, who conducted on opening night in 1891, to the Beatles, who rocked the stage in 1964. Kids will be enthralled by tales of famous musicians and the magnificent architecture.

Post-tour, explore the Rose Museum within the hall, which is free of charge. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the hall"s illustrious past through photographs, videos, and artifacts. It"s a great way to visually connect with the stories you heard during the tour.

If your visit coincides with a family concert, treat your senses to a performance. Carnegie Hall’s programming often includes shows tailored for young audiences, making it a perfect way to introduce children to live music in an iconic setting. Check the schedule in advance and book tickets early to secure your spot.

For a lovely conclusion to your day, stroll over to Central Park, just a short walk away. Enjoy a relaxing picnic, let the kids play, and reflect on the rich history and magical moments spent at Carnegie Hall. This is a day your family will remember forever, steeped in culture, history, and fun.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

The Dakota Apartments

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary: Exploring Around The Dakota Apartments

Morning: Visit to The Dakota Apartments

- Start at: The Dakota Apartments, located at 1 West 72nd Street, New York, NY.

- Getting There: Take the subway lines B or C to 72nd Street station, which is a short walk from The Dakota.

- What to Explore: Admire the iconic façade of The Dakota, known for its high gables and deep roofs. This historic building, completed in 1884, aligns perfectly with a family"s curiosity about New York"s architectural evolution and its role in films like "Rosemary"s Baby" and as the home of John Lennon.

Midday: Central Park Wonders

- Next Stop: Central Park, directly across from The Dakota.

- Activities: Visit Strawberry Fields, the memorial dedicated to John Lennon. Enjoy family time at the Central Park Zoo and the nearby historic Carousel that dates back to 1908.

- Learn & Play: Engage with interactive exhibits at the Central Park Discovery Center, then let the kids play at the Heckscher Playground.

Afternoon: Museum Mile

- Head to: The American Museum of Natural History.

- Getting There: Walk east through Central Park to reach the museum at Central Park West & 79th St.

- Family Fun: Explore the dinosaur exhibits and the Butterfly Conservatory when it"s in season. The museum is educational and engaging for all ages.

Evening: Dinner and a Stroll

- Dining: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like Shake Shack on Columbus Ave, offering a casual environment and something on the menu for everyone.

- Post-Dinner Activity: Take a leisurely stroll back towards The Dakota, enjoying the street performers along Central Park West.

This blend of history, culture, and outdoor fun around The Dakota Apartments ensures a memorable day for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Broadway Theatre

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Broadway Theatre Itinerary

Morning: Broadway Theatre District Tour

Start your family"s Broadway adventure with a guided walking tour of the Theatre District. Tours usually kick off around 10 AM, allowing you to explore iconic theaters and learn about Broadway"s rich history. Begin at Duffy Square (7th Ave & W 46th Street), where the famous red steps offer a perfect photo op with the TKTS booth in the background.

Lunch: Junior"s Restaurant & Bakery

Post-tour, head to Junior"s on West 45th Street for a New York-style lunch. Known for its famous cheesecake, Junior"s also offers a kid-friendly menu that’s sure to please everyone.

Afternoon: Matinee Show

Catch a 2 PM matinee performance. Choose family favorites like "The Lion King" or "Aladdin" for a magical experience. Book tickets in advance to secure good seats. Theaters are generally a short walk from Junior’s, making the transition smooth and easy.

Post-Show Dinner: Ellen’s Stardust Diner

After the show, stroll to Ellen’s Stardust Diner on Broadway, where dinner is served with a side of live singing by the waitstaff, aspiring Broadway performers themselves. This 1950s-themed diner will keep the Broadway magic alive with its entertaining atmosphere.

Evening: Times Square

Wrap up your day with a walk to Times Square, just a few blocks away. The dazzling lights and bustling energy are perfect for an evening stroll. Visit the numerous shops, or simply soak in the iconic sights like the ball drop location from New York"s New Year"s Eve celebration.

Getting Around

Most attractions are within walking distance in the Theatre District. For longer distances, the subway is a convenient option with a MetroCard. Stations are accessible throughout the district.

Interesting Fact

The Broadway Theatre District is home to 41 professional theaters, each with over 500 seats, making it the pinnacle of American theater.

This itinerary offers a blend of educational content, cultural exposure, and fun, suitable for all ages, ensuring a memorable Broadway experience for the whole family!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Hudson River Park

Why Visit?

Family Adventure Itinerary: Hudson River Park, NYC

Welcome to Hudson River Park, a 4.5-mile riverside oasis that offers a plethora of family-friendly activities! Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

Morning: Start at Pier 25

- Location: North Moore Street

- Getting There: Take the 1, 2, or 3 subway lines to Chambers Street, walk west.

- Activities: Begin your adventure at Pier 25"s impressive playground, featuring climbing walls, swings, and sand play areas. Don’t miss a round of mini-golf ($10 for adults, $5 for kids) surrounded by beautiful river views. If you"re up for more, hop aboard for a fun kayaking session on the Hudson.

Lunch: Pier 26 - City Vineyard

- Getting There: A short walk north from Pier 25.

- Enjoy: After working up an appetite, grab a bite at City Vineyard, where you can indulge in kid-friendly dishes while savoring panoramic views of the river and the city skyline.

Afternoon: Explore the Pier 51 Play Area

- Location: West Street and Horatio Street

- Getting There: Walk north from Pier 26 or jump on the M11 bus uptown.

- Highlights: The water-themed play area is perfect to cool off with spray features and fun water channels. Educational plaques offer insights into the Hudson River’s ecosystem, making it a learning experience for the kids.

Evening: Wind Down at the Pier 62 Carousel

- Location: Across from Chelsea Piers

- **Getting Once again, head north either on foot or by bus.

- Special: Conclude your day with a magical ride on the hand-carved carousel ($3.50 per ride), featuring figures of native Hudson River Valley animals.

Throughout your visit, immerse in the stunning riverside landscapes and cultural performances often found in the park. Hudson River Park is not just a park but a vibrant community hub that brings nature, sports, and arts together. Perfect for a memorable family day out!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

New York Penn Station

Why Visit?

Welcome to New York City, starting from the iconic Penn Station! Here"s a family-friendly itinerary to ensure a memorable visit:

1. Morning: Start at Madison Square Garden (MSG)

- Location: Directly above Penn Station.

Summary: Kick off your morning by exploring the legendary sports and entertainment arena. Check if there"s a morning tour to peek behind the scenes of where countless concerts and sports events take place.

2. Late Morning: Walk to the High Line

- Directions: Exit Penn Station, head west towards 10th Avenue, and walk north to reach the High Line entrance at Gansevoort Street (about a 20-minute walk).

- Interesting Fact: The High Line is a transformed rail track now featuring beautifully landscaped walkways. Enjoy the street art and public sculptures, and have fun spotting the various plant species.

3. Lunch: Chelsea Market

- Directions: Exit the High Line at 16th Street and head one block east to 9th Avenue.

- Summary: Dive into a wide array of culinary delights suitable for all ages in this food hall, which was once a Nabisco factory where the Oreo cookie was invented!

4. Afternoon: Times Square

- Directions: Take the subway from 14th Street (A, C, E lines) back to 34th Street Penn Station, then walk or take a short subway ride to Times Square.

- Interesting Fact: Known as the "Crossroads of the World", Times Square is bustling with themed restaurants, shops, and the largest toy store, M&M"s World – a hit with kids!

5. Evening: Return to Penn Station

- Directions: Walk or take the subway back to Penn Station.

- Summary: Conclude your day by picking up some New York-themed souvenirs from the shops inside or around Penn Station.

This itinerary offers a blend of historical insights, outdoor exploration, and dynamic city life, all easily accessible from Penn Station. Enjoy your family trip!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.