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NYC Itinerary No. 1: Art Day

New York City is packed with creative spaces for kids. Make the most of your art day by starting with the Children's Museum of Manhattan, where Inside Art and an on-site makerspace get the creative juices flowing. An action-packed calendar of hands-on events offers tons of inspiration as well.

Then, head to the vibrant Bushwick neighborhood for a self-guided tour of its famous street art. This Brooklyn neighborhood has transformed into a lively open-air gallery with colorful murals and graffiti that kids find fascinating—plus, it’s FREE.

For brunch, the family-owned PLG Coffee House and Tavern—one of our favorite coffee shops in NYC—offers a cozy atmosphere, a kid-friendly menu, and even a small play area. End the day at the Brooklyn Children's Museum, which is designed for kids from 6 months to 10 years old. You’ll find three floors of rotating and permanent exhibits, plus cultural and science activities made just for them.

NYC Itinerary No. 2: Local History Day

Do your kids love stories about the past? Kick off your day by exploring the Tenement Museum, where real apartment tours show how immigrant families lived when they first came to New York. It’s one of those rare museums where history comes alive, and it’s something kids, parents, and grandparents can enjoy together. Take note: Each tour has a different age requirement, and all require guests to walk up stairs, so these are best suited for children who can handle being on their feet for 60-90 minutes.

Next, make your way to Federal Hall in the heart of the Financial District, where George Washington took the oath of office. Inside, you’ll find the original inaugural Bible and exhibits that help kids learn early American history meaningfully. Admission is completely FREE.

Before heading home, stop by the Museum of the City of New York, which is FREE for children under age 20. This spot keeps young minds busy with hands-on exhibits and programming. It’s a fun way to end a day filled with stories, questions, and maybe even a new favorite historical figure.

NYC Itinerary No. 3: Foodie Adventure Day

Got a picky eater or a bold little foodie always ready to try something new? Either way, start your adventure at the Chelsea Market—a bustling food hall that welcomes 6 million visitors annually. From tacos to doughnuts, there’s something for every craving. If your crew needs a break from snacks, the market’s shops offer plenty to explore.

Next up: pizza. Go pizza shop hopping through the West Village, Soho, or the Lower East Side. Whether it’s Prince Street Pizza or Scarr's Pizza, each serves its twist on the iconic New York slice. Want someone else to lead the way? Join a guided pizza tour and learn a little history while you munch.

If you need a sweet finish, head to the Museum of Ice Cream, where you’ll find interactive exhibits and all-you-can-eat scoops—including vegan and dairy-free options.

RELATED: NYC Visitors Guide for Families

Central Park's myriad playgrounds are the perfect spot to romp during your nature day in NYC. Photo by Jody Mercier

NYC Itinerary No. 4: Nature Day

If your kids need to move, climb, and run, this one’s for you. Start with a visit to the New York Flower Market on West 28th Street, where floral designers and shop owners buy their blooms. It’s a low-key and local experience the whole family can enjoy.

Then head to Central Park, where playgrounds, the zoo, and the iconic carousel are just the beginning. Hidden gems like The Ravine—enter near 103rd Street—or the peaceful Shakespeare Garden might surprise you. For another outdoor option, head to Brooklyn Bridge Park and Jane’s Carousel, a vintage ride with plenty of photo-ops. You can also try kayaking or renting bikes for a relaxed, scenic ride.

Need a quiet moment as the sun sets? Take your family to the Little Red Lighthouse, tucked under the George Washington Bridge, to relax and watch the water. This charming hidden gem inspired the beloved children’s book The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge. It’s the perfect way to end your day.

NYC Itinerary No. 5: Science Day

If you have a future astronaut or dinosaur lover in the family, the American Museum of Natural History is a great first stop for your science-themed adventure. Your kids will be thrilled by the dinosaur exhibits and the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life—especially if they love underwater creatures. Make sure to visit the Hayden Planetarium, which has just debuted a brand-new space-themed show called Encounters in the Milky Way.

After lunch, head to Queens for the New York Hall of Science, which offers more than 450 interactive exhibits. It’s one of the most hands-on museums in the city. From physics games to space exploration activities, kids learn without even realizing it. We absolutely loved the newly opened CityWorks exhibit when we visited.

Your Next Family Adventure Starts Here

Each of these kid-approved itineraries gives your family a different way to experience NYC—through art, food, science, history, or just being outside together. It’s about sparking wonder, making memories, and maybe even starting new family traditions. So, which adventure will you take first?