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🍎 Things To Do in NYC – Family-Friendly & Local Favssss

43 items

Aunjahné Williamson

Exploring NYC with family is always an adventure! Here’s a curated list of favorite spots—from iconic parks to cozy eateries and unique experiences. You can be a local or just visiting, these places are perfect for making memories.

Map

Sections

Outdoor Activities

Restaurants

Other Food & Drinks

Arts & Entertainment

Local Favorites

Outdoor Activities

Explore NYC’s best parks, playgrounds, trails, and scenic spots for the whole family. Perfect for active outings, picnics, and creating lasting memories while enjoying fresh air in the city.

A classic! We love the playgrounds, boating on the lake, and picnicking on the Great Lawn.

Central Park

Stunning skyline views, Jane's Carousel, and plenty of space for the kids to run around.

Brooklyn Bridge Park: Home

An elevated garden walk with art installations and city views—perfect for a leisurely stroll.

The High Line

A quieter alternative to Central Park with a zoo, lake, and lots of green space.

Prospect Park

Ideal for biking, picnicking, and enjoying the Hudson River breeze.

Riverside Park

A peaceful spot for reading, people-watching, or enjoying a seasonal outdoor movie.

Bryant Park Winter Village

A tranquil museum dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe, set in a serene park.

The Met Cloisters

A family-friendly spa offering pools, saunas, and relaxation areas—perfect for unwinding

Spa Castle New York

Outdoor yoga sessions with views of the harbor—great for stress relief.

Empower and Awaken with Lubaina

Offers walking paths, piers, and playgrounds along the river—ideal for a leisurely day out.

Hudson River Park Trust

One of the biggest zoos in the country, perfect for a full-day family trip with kids.

Bronx Zoo

A must for sports lovers — kids and parents can explore behind the scenes of an iconic stadium.

Yankee Stadium Tours

A local favorite with playgrounds, pools, and cultural events, especially fun during the summer.

Marcus Garvey Park

Restaurants

Discover kid-friendly and family-approved restaurants across the city. From casual diners to unique local eateries, these spots offer delicious meals, fun atmospheres, and unforgettable dining experiences for all ages.

Chef Vijay Kumar brings authentic South Indian flavors to NYC. Their gunpowder dosa is a must-try!

SEMMA

Located in the newly restored Waldorf-Astoria, offering seasonal dishes in a chic setting.

Lex Yard

A cozy spot in the East Village serving flavorful Thai dishes with a modern twist.

Bua Thai Ramen & Robata Grill

Known for their brick oven pizza and delicious tiramisu—perfect for a family dinner.

Numero 28 Pizzeria

A charming French bistro offering classic dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.

Le Jardin Bistro

Legendary soul food spot loved by locals and visitors alike. Great for families to taste authentic Harlem flavors.

Sylvia's Restaurant

Dominican comfort food at its best — a great stop for families who want big portions and lively vibes.

La Casa Del Mofongo NYC (@lacasadelmofongo182st)

Family-owned soul food restaurant with a cozy vibe — the fried chicken & waffles are iconic.

Melba's Restaurant

Other Food & Drinks

Find the best snacks, treats, and specialty drinks in NYC. Perfect for a sweet break, refreshing beverage, or trying local favorites while exploring the city with your family.

A Black-owned juice bar co-founded by Jadakiss & Styles P. Known for fresh juices and smoothies that are perfect for a healthy, family-friendly pick-me-up.

juicesforlife • Instagram photos and videos

Famous for the Cronut and other creative pastries. A sweet stop that kids will love, but also fun for parents who enjoy unique NYC food trends.

Dominique Ansel Bakery

Caribbean street food with bold flavors. Great for families who want something different and colorful — outdoor vibes make it casual and fun.

LoLo's Seafood Shack

Puerto Rican family-owned spot dedicated to all things chocolate. From hot chocolate to savory dishes with chocolate twists — kids and adults both get excited here.

Chocobar Cortés

Fun burger and shake spot that’s kid-friendly and celebrates Harlem culture

Harlem Shake

Cuban food & drinks in a lively setting, great for families wanting authentic flavors.

Havana Cafe - Havana Cafe E Tremont Ave

Arts & Entertainment

Experience NYC’s creative side with museums, theaters, street performances, and interactive exhibits. These attractions are fun, educational, and perfect for families looking to add culture and excitement to their day.

Dinosaurs, space exhibits, and more—always a hit with the kids.

American Museum of Natural History

Engaging exhibits on film, television, and digital media—great for older kids and teens.

Museum of the Moving Image: HOME

A free ride with stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline.

Staten Island Ferry

Catch a family-friendly show like 'The Lion King' or 'Aladdin' for a magical experience

Broadway Tickets | Broadway Shows | Theater Tickets | Broadway.com

Bright lights, street performers, and the iconic red steps—always exciting for the whole family.

Times Square

Historic theater showcasing Black culture, music, and art. Family-friendly shows and events happen throughout the year.

Apollo Theater

Puerto Rican/Latinx theater company sharing amazing cultural performances.

Pregones/PRTT

Outdoor street art experience that kids and teens especially enjoy.

Graffiti Hall of Fame

Local Favorites

Check out hidden gems and community-loved spots around the city. From unique shops to iconic landmarks, these local favorites give families an authentic NYC experience beyond the typical tourist spots.

A food lover's paradise with diverse vendors and unique shops.

Chelsea Market

Vintage finds, local crafts, and delicious eats—perfect for a weekend outing.

Brooklyn Flea

An outdoor food market offering a variety of cuisines—great for foodies and families alike.

Smorgasburg Williamsburg

Classic boardwalk fun with rides, games, and Nathan's Famous hot dogs.

Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk

Quaint streets, art galleries, and the iconic Manhattan Bridge view—ideal for a family photo op.

DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View: All You Need to Know

A small fishing village vibe in NYC with seafood spots, fun for family day trips.

Exploring City Island, NY | Inside the Bronx Neighborhood

The “real Little Italy” — family-friendly restaurants, bakeries, and markets.

Arthur Avenue

Annual cultural festival celebrating Harlem’s history, arts, food, and music — very family-friendly.

Harlem Week – Celebrate Our Magic