Growing up in New Jersey, a vacation in New York City is probably one of the last places we’d consider as a family. But for everyone else around the world, the Big Apple rivals any city you can think of for it’s endless energy, cultural diversity and plenty of good old fun. There are experiences here that you just won’t find anywhere else. Here’s a few at the top of our list:

1) Empire State Building

Kids and as well as adults love having good photos for their social media accounts, and there is no better place for awesome photos than the Empire State Building. Be sure to but your tickets in advance to skip the long line. To eliminate both ticket lines and elevator lines, time your visit for early morning or late in the day.

2) On Broadway

No visit to NYC is complete without seeing a show. Broadway is packed full of talent and incredible variety. Choosing which one will be the most difficult part: Wicked, Aladdin, Frozen, Harry Potter, School of Rock…just to name a few. Although shows are expensive, you can get discounted tickets. Two apps that we recommend are TodayTix and tkts. Located in Times Square, there is a half price ticket stand underneath the bleachers.

3) The Ride

There are plenty of bus tours around the City, but nothing quite like The Ride. Expect the unexpected! This is a live action attraction. We won’t spoil the surprise for you, but know this isn’t your typical tour. The city is the stage and you have a front row seat to rapping, dancing, and more.

4) The American Museum of Natural History

Did your kids see night at the Museum? Well, it comes to life as you explore some of the most famous exhibits including dinosaur skeletons, the Easter Island Head, the giant whale…almost 50 permanent exhibits, and more than 32 million specimens and artifacts. Try to save time to include the Hayden Planetarium featuring giant screen films in 3D and special exhibitions.

5) The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

Lady Liberty will energize even the youngest with awe and inspiration. The climb to the torch is an adventure unto itself. Include a trip to Ellis Island where millions have been welcomed to America from every country on earth. Again, get your tickets in advance, they can sell out in high season.

6) Times Square

The crossroads of the world are the heart of NYC. Any time of day is buzzing with crowds, but at night, the neon spectacle and enormous video screens are not to be missed. Check out the view from the Broadway Lounge in the Marriott Marquis. Shop in every store imaginable. And dinner at Carmine’s at 2450 Broadway is an absolute must, check out the size of the shared plates BEFORE you order.

There are attractions everywhere. We highly recommend the National Geographic Encounter, Bowlmor Times Square, and the incredibly immersive NFL Experience.

7) The Highline Park and Walking Path

Once an abandoned overhead freight railway, it has now been transformed into a remarkable elevated park. It runs roughly from 15th to 34th Street on the city’s West Side offering both river and city views.

8) The Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum

Allow several hours to explore this historic aircraft carrier. There are nearly 30 vintage planes, a guided missile submarine and the Space Shuttle Enterprise. Full of interactive fun, like climbing into a helicopter and steering the wings of a plane.

9) Chelsea Pier

Once a defunct pier on the Hudson, now transformed into a 27 acre riverfront sports complex. Activities include a bowling alley and a Summer skate park. Children 4 and under even have their own play area.

10) 9/11 Memorial and Museum

A tribute to the memory and honor of the 2977 people killed in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center, Shanksville, PA and the Pentagon. You may want to consider the ages of your children, this is an intense experience. However, this is a vital part of our history and a place of remembrance and quiet reflection.

Find Fun Food
If you can’t find fun food in NYC, you’re not looking hard enough. Here are some places to start:

Serendipity: Home of amazing food and decadent desserts since 1954. The must tries are the signature frrrozen drinks like Hot Chocolate, Strawberry Supreme and Pink Ice.

Ellen’s Stardust Diner: The staff here are mostly Broadway actors and spontaneously break into song at a moments notice!

Eataly: An eclectic mix of restaurant and grocery store, this is the mecca for all things Italian…as in food. As much an experience as a place to eat.

Juniors: Juniors has the best hot chocolate in the world. Or is it the best cheesecake in the world. Our daughter thinks it is the mashed potatoes! They even serve milkshakes with a slice of cheesecake on top. Not just about the desserts, kids can get the always favorite mac and cheese, grilled cheese or chicken fingers…and there’s a full menu for mom and dad.

Citizens Kitchen: If you are looking for a more affordable place to eat, you will appreciate the nine eating options found inside Citizens Kitchen. They offer a little bit of everything like sushi, tacos, lobster rolls, donuts, and more. You will find this one block from Times Square inside the Row NYC hotel.

There’s so much more to list, including, The Children’s Museum of Manhattan, Central Park, Staten Island Ferry, MOMA, South Street Seaport…what are your favorites?

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