Exploring New York City is a fun experience for most people, but for many parents, it can definitely be challenging to enjoy the sights when they are bringing their children along. Going around NYC with the kids can get stressful as the various sights and sounds of the city can be quite jarring for children, especially those who are very young. Fortunately, parents can ease their children to the hustle and bustle of New York by preparing beforehand. Whether you are bringing just a toddler or an army of kids, here are five tips to help you when visiting New York City with children in tow:
1. Stay In A Hotel That Is In A Prime Location
When looking for a hotel to stay in, it is smart to choose a hotel that is near a number of NYC attractions. Staying in a hotel that is situated in a prime location will make it easier when traveling from one must-see destination to the next, and back to your hotel, with your kids. You should also pick a hotel that is equipped to accommodate your family’s needs, so everyone will have enough room to rest after a long day of touring around the city.
Westgate New York Grand Central, for example, offers rooms and suites that make suitable accommodations for families who want to experience the luxurious lifestyle of New York City (please visit their main website at https://westgatenyc.com for more details). The hotel is also located on 42nd Street, so it is near Grand Central Station Terminal, Bryant Park, and The Morgan Library & Museum.
2. Set Some Ground Rules Before Leaving
If your kids are visiting New York City for the very first time, expect them to be filled with a lot of excitement. The city’s lively atmosphere can overstimulate their senses, making your kids restless and even more thrilled to hit the city streets. However, before you entertain your kids, you need to set some ground rules first. Simple rules like not to stray too far from the group and to hold their parent’s or older sibling’s hand will ensure that your kids are always within your field of vision. It is also a good idea to discuss a plan in case someone gets separated, so it is easier to find someone who is missing from the group.
3. Pick The Best Time To Visit
You can visit New York all year round, but touring the city during a certain season can stress you out if you are bringing your kids along. Exploring NYC’s sights at winter can be a frustrating time since you will be lugging your kids’ heavy coats, jackets, and other winter gear around with you. If your kids are still very young, the best time to visit New York is around the months of April, May, June, September, and October. Not only do these months have a pleasant climate, but there are less crowds during these times as well.
4. Prepare For A Lot Of Walking
New York has extensive sidewalks and a great public transportation system, so it is easy to visit the city’s attractions on foot. Walking around NYC is also more economical for families, so you need to prepare yourself and your kids for the many miles you will cover during your stay. If you are bringing a toddler along, it is smart to invest in a heavy-duty stroller that is comfortable for your child, lightweight, and easy to carry. This way, you will not have any trouble pushing it around or bringing it up and down the subway stairs.
To keep your children energized, you should always have a bag of healthy snacks and drinks with you. You should also make it a point to stop and take a rest when someone in your group gets tired. If you are looking for a place to take a break, New York has several parks where your kids can immerse themselves in the pockets of nature the city provides. Some of these parks include:
- Central Park
- Bryant Park
- McCarren Park
- Flushing Meadows/Corona Park
5. Choose Kid-Friendly Spots And Activities
You want your kids to enjoy their stay in New York, so to make their visit even more memorable, you need to bring them to kid-friendly destinations. The City of New York has a plethora of attractions designed to entertain visitors of all ages, but if you want to make your visit worthwhile, it’s best to create an itinerary that’s both fun and educational.
If you want to expose your children to the city’s rich history, the American Museum of Natural History and the DiMenna Children’s History Museum make great learning environments for kids. If you are looking for something a bit more adventurous, on the other hand, catching a ride on the Staten Island Ferry or visiting the Statue of Liberty on Ellis Island is a great choice. If you want to surprise your kids with a sweet treat, however, bringing them to Dylan’s Candy Bar or M&M’s World will definitely blow their minds.
Going on a trip to New York City with your kids is a daunting task, but that should not stop you from creating unforgettable memories with your family. By following these five tips, you can rest assured that your family bonding experience in the city will be a fruitful one.
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