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Things to do in New York with kids

New York has always been a firm favourite for shopaholics, but if you’re planning to take the children then you may need a rethink. Kids hate being dragged around the shops at the best of times and with all the distractions of New York, it’ll be the last thing they’ll want to do! Fortunately there are tons of other adventures in and around the big apple that can capture the little ones imaginations.

The city never sleeps, but hopefully the kids will:

American Museum of Natural History

A spectacular museum full of discovery and amazement. Take the whole family on a trip back through time and see real skeletons of prehistoric dinosaurs like T-Rex and the Apatosaurus (Brontosaurus). If that’s not enough then there is also a huge planetarium at the Rose Center for Earth and Space, which is located at the north of the museum. There’s something for every child here, it’s no doubt one of the worlds finest museums.

Central Park

As the Manhattan skyline dominates the borough, it is easy to miss the unreserved nature waiting to be explored in Central Park. Plenty of space for the kids to wear themselves out in and a huge selection of attractions to be found. Belvedere castle, Wollman ice rink and beautiful monuments dotted around the park are just some of the allure. A fantastic summer activity and many people opt to head towards “the great lawn”, peering at the skyline whilst enjoying a family picnic. A quiet and relaxing choice to get away from the bustling metropolis of the city.

Image: View from Viceroy New York Hotel

Bronx Zoo

The largest urban zoo on Earth with over 650 species of animal. With wonderful activities like camel riding and penguin feeding, rest assured an animal filled day is in front of you. The zoo is not to be missed, with a renovated children’s section reopening in the summer of 2015 and much more. A great family trip that’s sure to provide a more than adequate experience for the children and of course a fun day out for the parents too. Prices for entrance is typically around: $30 adults, $20 children under 12.

Statue Of Liberty

One of the most iconic statues in existence, the copper statue of freedom was originally a gift from France as a celebration for American Independence. Representing the Roman Goddess Libertas, the statue stands as an important landmark for not just New York, but the USA. Take a tour on the Hudson river before landing at Liberty Island and heading to the top of the statue. Scenic views of a prestigious city await and not to mention all the wonderful things to discover on your way to the viewing point in the crown. Bundle cruise packages are available which allow you to have a guided tour along with a visit to neighboring Ellis Island, which was a gateway for settlers passing into the country and now acts as home to the museum of immigration. Packed with history and culture this is a great educational day out for all the family.

Baseball or Soccer

The New York Yankees are a baseball team with a huge capacity stadium of nearly 50,000. The Yankees have unbelievably won the World Series Championship 27 times, making them one of the biggest baseball franchises in the world! Why not visit the stadium or even get a ticket to a game? An action packed event is maybe just what the kids ordered.

On the other hand New York is home to the New York Red Bulls soccer team, who are a high performing club competing within the MLS (Major League Soccer). Situated in New Jersey, Red Bulls were the last team that the world famous footballer Thierry Henry played for. If you’re a football/soccer family what better than to visit a new ground and cheer on a different team!

Whatever your plans for your trip to New York, remember that you are spoiled for choice. You’re going to a state that brings in millions of tourists per year, so be sure to do your research. There is no excuse, there are plenty of things to do in New York with kids!

For help with making your dream trip to New York come true please feel free to talk to one of our travel experts, for friendly and informal advice. Multi-centre USA trips are also popular as many people like to expand and visit multiple locations in the same holiday, due to the vast lands America has to explore. For more details please call 0121 446 4932