New York City. It’s fast-paced, incredibly crowded, and can often come across as overwhelming. But is it really a family-friendly destination that everyone can enjoy?
Don’t worry, moms – the answer is a resounding yes!
Everything you probably know about New York City and all the cliches, the famous landmarks, and the atmosphere is most likely true – but what you probably didn’t realize is that New York City is also full of magical, family-friendly experiences that you and your loved ones will treasure forever. You just have to know where to look, what to book, and how to make the most of your time there. As a mom, you’re used to organizing and planning family life, and planning your family trip to New York is certainly no different – but don’t worry, mom, even in one of the biggest and busiest cities in the world, you’ve got this. Here I’ve laid out the Ultimate Mom’s Guide to New York Family Travel. Enjoy!
Where to Stay: Comfort, Convenience, and Kid-Friendly Features
When it comes to booking a family stay in NYC, location plays a pretty big role. For a family trip, it’s likely you’ll have children of a range of ages in tow, so choosing a neighborhood like Midtown, Upper West Side, or Brooklyn Heights will get you closer to the big attractions and make getting around the city a little easier for those who get tired quickly. When booking your stay, look for hotels or apartments that offer flexible sleeping arrangements, space to unwind, and are close to kid-friendly amenities. Consider the following features in your family accommodation:
- Look for family-sized rooms: Hotel rooms in NYC are notoriously small, so if you’re traveling with your family, you’re going to need to choose good-sized family rooms that allow plenty of space for everyone’s luggage, clothes, personal belongings and space to relax after a long day sightseeing.
- Kitchenette access: If you want to save a little money on your trip and don’t mind cooking, or you need access to things like hot water for bottles or to heat baby and toddler food whenever you need it, consider choosing accommodation that comes with a kitchenette or access to the utilities you need.
- Proximity to parks and subways: Not every hotel will be within walking distance of a landmark; there are some instances where you might want to experience the subway. Therefore, choosing a hotel that is in close proximity to a station is key. Additionally, if you want wide open spaces where the kids can play and roam a little more, then look for somewhere close to parks or playgrounds.
Top Attractions for Families
There are so many landmarks and attractions in NYC that it can be difficult to know what to prioritize. As a mom, you’ll know yourself what will interest your children the most, so with that in mind, take a look at these top attractions and plan your trip accordingly!
- Central Park: A haven for families, right in the heart of Manhattan. Kids will love the wide open spaces and will enjoy seeking out the playgrounds hidden throughout the park. Don’t miss a rowboat ride from the Loeb Boathouse or a spin on the whimsical Central Park Carousel – it’s a perfect mix of fun and fresh air.
- Children’s Museum of Manhattan: Designed just for kids, this museum is filled with interactive exhibits that encourage creativity, learning, and play. From water features and climbing zones to cultural exhibits and early learning spaces, it’s an ideal indoor option that’s both educational and exciting for toddlers through to tweens.
- Statue of Liberty and Ferry Ride: Taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty is an exciting adventure in itself for kids, offering spectacular views of the skyline and a chance to be out on the water. Once on Liberty Island, children can explore the grounds, learn about the statue’s history, and feel the thrill of seeing one of America’s most iconic symbols up close.
Mom Moments: Don’t Forget to Make Time for You
Yes, it’s a family trip, but you also deserve a little breather now and then and some time to soak up the atmosphere of NYC. Consider working in some short “me-time” breaks throughout the trip, these could include enjoying a classic coffee and NYC pastry while the youngest naps, enjoying a stroll through a quiet garden, seeking out landmarks you want to see, or even booking a massage at your hotel.
Many hotels offer babysitting services which you can take advantage of for an hour or so. Or ask other family members to take turns with the childcare so you can have a breather.
Safety Tips for a Fun Trip
NYC is considered to be a very safe destination for visitors, even those with families and children in tow. However, like with any new destination, it makes sense to prepare yourself and your kids for your trip and keep these tips in mind for a risk-free and stress-free trip.
- Stick together in crowds: New York can be busy, especially in tourist hotspots like Times Square or subway stations. Make a habit of holding hands or using a child harness with younger kids to stay connected. Bright clothing or matching outfits can also help you spot each other quickly!
- Teach kids what to do if they get lost: Make sure your child knows your full name, not just “mom,” and what to do if they get separated. Agree on a meeting point at each attraction and show them how to identify safe people to ask for help (like staff or police officers).
- Keep essentials close: Use a crossbody bag or backpack with secure zippers to keep snacks, wipes, hand sanitizer, and a mini first-aid kit on hand. Always carry a power bank to keep your phone charged – essential for maps, calls, and keeping in touch if needed.
- Be subway-savvy: Hold onto younger children on the platform and don’t travel in an empty car. Make sure you plan your route, and if you’re traveling with a stroller, make sure your chosen route is accessible (not all of them are).
- Keep important info handy: Write your hotel address and phone number down on a card and give one to every child to keep in their pocket. Some parents use temporary ID bracelets or even AirTags to give them peace of mind.
- Trust your gut: Does something not feel right? Perhaps your route is too busy or your children are becoming overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to change your plans or take a breather.
Final Thoughts:
So, are you feeling more prepared for your trip to NYC? This incredibly family-friendly city is just waiting to be explored! What will you do first?
