There are so many rich experiences for families to enjoy in New York City. We asked our group contributors to share their recommendations for the best indoor New York City activities for families and they did not disappoint. From museums to toy stores and popular interactive experiences, we collected the best ones for you to explore on your next trip!
Broadway Show
Kids of all ages will love the experience of watching a Broadway show in New York City. With so many shows to choose from, you’re sure to be able to find one (or more) that will appeal to your kids and their interests. Our contributors most often recommend taking kids to Lion King, Aladdin, Frozen or Wicked. A show is a great experience for both children and parents!
American Museum of Natural History
Some kids love museums and can spend days exploring them, while others tend to get antsy. The American Museum of Natural History is one that appeals to kids of all ages and personalities. You can add on a planetarium show or an IMAX film to enhance the experience, though just wandering through the 46 exhibition halls of this museum will take up most of your day.
Pip’s Island
This is a new experience in NYC but has become extremely popular quickly because of the high quality of production. It is best suited for children 10 and under. During this one-hour long journey, kids lead the way through a magical island where they will encounter various obstacles. The experience can definitely be a sensory overload so make sure your children will be up for it.
Candy Stores
If your kids have a sweet tooth, let them indulge with a trip to a famed candy store in NYC. The top recommendations in our group are for Dylan’s Candy Bar and M&M’s World in Times Square. Both are over the top and will have your kids walking around with their eyes wide open. Take them to one of the many NYC playgrounds afterwards to burn off the sugar!
New York Transit Museum
The Transit Museum is located in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn. Kids can explore old subway cars, bus, and railway memorabilia and dioramas and so much more. Our group contributors think this museum is best for kids 10 and under.
Gazillion Bubble Show
This show is now in its 12th year in New York City and it’s geared more towards younger children, but one that could definitely be enjoyed by all ages. Watch bubble tricks, a laser show and more in this interactive experience.
American Girl Store
If you have children who are fans of American Girl, you absolutely have to take them to this store. It’s also a great idea if you want to purchase a first doll for your child. The experience is completely over the top, with the store offering hair styling and beauty services for both your children and their dolls. For an extra special touch, your kids can can even dine with their dolls in the store cafe.
The LEGO Store
This Rockefeller Center store is a dream come true for all LEGO lovers. Aside from being able to shop a large variety of LEGO products, families will love exploring the incredible LEGO statues. Kids will also love the giant Pick a Brick wall to create their own custom projects.
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
The CMOM is 5 floors of of fabulous fun for toddlers and young children. If you need to find an indoor activity for a few hours with a variety of activities, this is the place for you. Each floor has a different theme with various interactive experiences to entertain your child.
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Located at Pier 86, this museum has been an institution in NYC since 1982. It features the aircraft carrier Intrepid, the space shuttle Enterprise, the world’s fastest jets, and a guided missile submarine. With new and revolving exhibitions, each visit brings a new experience.
FAO Schwarz
This ultimate New York City toy store featured in so many shows and movies is a must for all children experiencing NYC for the first time. Apart from a large variety of toys, kids will enjoy the life-sized stuffed animals and interactive piano you can play by jumping on. Kids can also be part of many fun toy demonstrations.
We think this list will keep you plenty busy during your trip! We love that it is weather-friendly so you have no excuse not to enjoy NYC even if it’s too hot, cold or wet outside! Did we miss any indoor New York City activities that you would recommend? Let us know in the comments below!
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