While many people see New York as a destination to take a long weekend shopping or a romantic mini-break with a loved one; it is also a fantastic city to take the kids. Quite apart from the sightseeing, New York has many attractions that will keep the children entertained. No matter whether your kids are the bookish types who love nothing better than to wander around museums; or whether they’re more action boys and girls, New York has something to please everyone. Probably one of New York’s most famous tourist sites, Central Park is more than just a pretty face. Its magnificent expanse is an ideal place to spend an afternoon or an entire day exploring with the children in tow. While you will probably be happy just wandering around the park sightseeing New York’s impressive greenery, the kids may want something a little more; well you’ve come to the right place.

The Carousel

The delightful Carousel is popular with the younger visitors and at under a dollar a ride it’s popular with the parents too! In operation since 1871 the wonderfully ornate horses of the carousel never cease to put a smile on the youngster’s faces. In the old days, genuine horsepower, in the form of a mule, was used to keep the Carousel spinning; but nowadays the motorised mechanism provides the impetus. Sightseeing New York can be tiring so perhaps you may even like to join the children on a relaxing ride.

Central Park Zoo

Yes, Central Park is so big it even has its own zoo. Spread over five acres the zoo is home to many fascinating species of animals. The zoo is themed into wonderful areas like the Tropic Zone with a spectacular rainforest surround; the underwater Polar Circle where you can view the playful polar bears as they frolic safely behind glass; and the Temperate Territory, home to cute monkeys and sea lions. If you have children under six, an even better treat is the Tisch Children’s Zoo. The Enchanted forest allows the little ones to get up close and pet the gentle creatures like goats, pigs, cows and sheep in complete safety.

Wollman Rink

If you have some leftover energy after spending the day sightseeing New York, then grab the kids and head to the Wollman Rink. When most people think of the rink they think of ice-skating, and this is indeed an amazing experience, but in summer as well the rink is buzzing with inline skaters showing their skills. If you’re sightseeing New York in winter, bundle up warm, pad up your knees and elbows and don a pair of ice-skates for a whirl around the rink. It is a magical time especially in the evening with the twinkling lights. In summer, hone your inline skating skills on the rink and then once you feel confident, rent a pair of blades and head out into the park. You and the children can spend a few fun hours exploring the parts of Central Park that you didn’t even know were there, stopping for hot dogs and ice-cream along the way. Bliss!

Author Bio: Marta Sanders-Cooper is the New York Destination Expert for Shorex, specialising in unique and unmissable, expert-led tours & excursions in major cities around the world, for the best in city sightseeing. New York tours are custom made and constructed from an extensive menu of activities, attractions and excursions, many of which are unique to Shorex. .

Category: Travel
Keywords: sightseeing. New York