During my student days, I spent lots of time in the city that never sleeps. But that was many years ago. Oddly, I’ve never visited New York with my children. Not exactly sure why I haven’t. About time, perhaps…
Today’s guest post comes from freelance writer Anna Dewinter. I’ve asked Anna to find some fun and unusual things to do with kids in New York, both Upstate and in New York City. She has certainly given me some ideas. Enjoy!
Visiting ‘The Big Apple’ is always a treat. From the natural wilderness areas Upstate to the hustle and bustle of the City, there’s something for everyone in the Empire State. However, traveling with kids will always present special challenges wherever you go in the world. Keeping them occupied and interested can be difficult. Luckily, New York has some wild and wooly attractions that are perfect for the whole family.
With kids in Watkins Glen
Watkins Glen, located near Elmira, NY is a hidden wonderland for family travelers. Within the Glen is Watkins Glen State Park, one of the few places where visitors can enter the world of waterfalls and get a stunning up-close view of the gorge. A mile and a half long trail winds through areas with enchanting names such as Jacob’s Ladder and Rainbow Falls. Stone stairways cut into the edge of the gorge provide wide, safe walkways through the breathtaking scenery.
For younger hikers or families who prefer an easier stroll, there is the option of riding a shuttle bus up to the top of the gorge and walking back down to the parking area. Be sure not to miss a sweet treat from the nearby Great Escape Ice-cream Parlor after the hike.
Adults will appreciate the proximity to New York’s famous Wine Trail and NASCAR racing is a popular local attraction. Nearby Elmira has several luxurious family-friendly hotels to retire to at the end of the day. This all makes Watkins Glen a perfect family-friendly New York destination.
With kids in Niagara
While the Falls may be one of the biggest attractions in the state, families with children may find that one day is enough to exhaust the traditional activities of riding the Maid of the Mist boat into the spray of the mighty cataract.
Visiting the Butterfly Preserve on the Canadian side is also a great day out.
Martin’s Fantasy Island is an amusement park on Grand Island, just outside of Niagara, NY. Martin’s water park and amusement rides offer a welcome distraction that will also keep the kids entertained for an entire day. Admission charge to the park is reasonable, and covers as many rides as you wish to enjoy.
With kids in New York City
Visitors to New York City will quickly discover a cultural extravaganza. There’s more to do with kids in the City than you could accomplish in a lifetime. A highlight is the Toys R Us Times Square store, a veritable wonderland that includes a ride on an indoor Ferris wheel.
Catch-and-release fishing is permitted in Central Park’s Harlem Meer. Poles can be borrowed from the Charles. E. Dana Center, located on the North Shore. Bait is also provided. Visitors over sixteen will need to purchase a fishing license, but kids under 16 may fish without one.
Families shouldn’t miss a chance to see the Blue Man Group on Broadway, touted as one of the most family-friendly shows. The audience interaction and sensory aspects of the show make it an excellent choice for families traveling with children.
No matter where you travel in New York, there are attractions that are sure to please the entire family.
Photo credits: Watkins Glen Falls by Mandana (on and off), Butterfly Conservatory – Niagara Falls by St Jenna, Harlem Meer fishermen by 1hr photo.
This article is brought to you in partnership with expedia.com
Nice guide – though my children have always been content with staying and walking around in any big city.
Us Norwegians, you know – have to get out in nature…
Never thought much about New York outside the city. Some very interesting tips here.
I’ve seen a bit of it: Niagara Falls, the Adirondacks, and the like. Felt like New York City and Upstate were a world apart.
I’ve never heard of Watkins Glen and it’s definitely not what I picture when I think of NY, but it looks amazing. Sadly, I’ve never been to Niagra Falls, even though I’m Canadian, one of these days!
Canada is such a huge country, that’s quite understandable. Lots of lovely spots on the Canadian side, I especially liked Niagara-on-the-Lake.
I couldn’t believe the natural wonder above is located in the busy city of New York. How long does it take you to travel there from the city center? Nice pic by the way.
-Zelle
New York is quite a big state. It’s about 4 – 5 hours from New York City to Watkins Glen.
When we lived in Niagara-on-the-Lake, our family went to Watkins Glen and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. A trip to the original Chautauqua is also a worthwhile weekend trip with kids.
Oh, you’ve lived there, such a lovely town!
You mention Chautauqua; I once lived on Chautauqua street (in Norman, OK). Never thought much about that word, just thinking it was an Indian name (Oklahoma overflows with those), but when I looked it up now, I see chautauqua is an entire movement. Very interesting! I’d like to visit the original town.
Whenever I think about New York, I always picture the giant buildings and different high end stores. I never thought that there’s this waterfall paradise hidden in the middle of the city. Fantastic guide. Thanks!
The waterfall is Upstate. But the fishing is in Central Park, right in the middle of the city 🙂
The first photo is stunning! I honestly was not expecting New York to have that side o_O (too much Sex and the City? XDD )Thanks for the info!
I was a bit surprised myself. Nicely so.
Great NY spots here, Sophie! Something for everyone.
Nature AND culture and whatever else New York is 🙂
Having no kids myself, I’ve never thought of New York City as a city where you go with kids. But there are some really good tips in your post. I especially love the Toys R Us store and fishing in Central Park – I would never have come up with this idea. Kids might also love the dinosaurs in the Museum of Natural History, I guess.
Thanks for adding that tip 🙂
Oh, I really like the “catch-and-release” fishing idea! 🙂 Sounds like a good idea for my kids who are just very much into “fishing” (mostly with sticks, ’cause mommy doesn’t want them to hurt the fish) LOL.
I’m just like that, too. ‘Let’s just look at the fish, kids, not kill the poor things…’
New York is truly perfect place for the whole family, this is my wishing well vacation place to find the sincerity of happiness, especially to my little princess…
I think New York is a fun place for little princesses 🙂
Many residents and tourists firmly believe that New York is best seen on foot. Walking also allows you to avoid the inevitable traffic jams that occur at all times of day.
That’s how I remember it; walking is really the only way to see New York City.
last month we been to New York as a whole family, we spent our vacation in that beautiful place and right now, we able to cherish our unforgettable memories in that lovely place…
That must have been a fun vacation, Scot 🙂
Interesting to see so many nature-focused places, I never think of that when I think of New York.
I didn’t either. Anna really found the off-beat parts of New York.
You take some absolutely beautiful pictures Sophie!
They are beautiful, aren’t they…
Sadly, I can’t claim them as mine (see credits at the end of the post).
Some brilliant tips! And That butterfly picture is gorgeous! xx
Watkins Glen was an amazing suggestion it is so naturally beautiful the children had a lovely time while we lazed in the greenery.
Right! I agree with you that visiting “The Big Apple’ is always a treat especially going to different fancy restaurants, Exmpire State and many more luxurious places but with kids? We have to make an exemption on places to bring them. I’m glad I read this post because now I know I can take my whole family especially my kids here in Watkins Glen. From the picture you shown here, wow! This place is awesome. I bet my kids will enjoy here and learn a lot of things especially on the beauty of nature. Thanks for sharing!