New York is one of the most exciting places for spending family holidays. The city offers a plethora of fabulous activities, ranging from specific family-themed attractions to lovely outdoor events. Here are the most popular attractions that are perfect for families planning a holiday in New York.
The Bronx Zoo
The largest metropolitan zoo in the world, the Bronx Zoo is an amazing venue for animal viewing, thanks to its diverse wildlife that comprises 4,000 animals of 600 different species. Exhibits in the park include tigers, lions, snow leopards, red pandas, gorillas and a lot more. The zoo even offers plenty of themed attractions such as the Astor Court and Sea Lion Pool, Jungle World, Butterfly Zone, Baboon Reserve, Wild Asia Monorail and Dinosaur Safari.
American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. The repository features 42 separate halls, which display over 36 million exhibits and specimens, enough to keep visitors entertained for long. Discovery Room, the key highlight of the museum, is a wonderful place for kids to play, explore and learn in a fun way. Narrated by Robert Redford, The Cosmic Collisions show is another must-attend attraction when visiting with young ones.
Central Park
Spread across an area of 843 acres, Central Park is packed with a plethora of summer activities, perfect for people of almost all ages. Attractions such as Central Park Zoo, Carousel, 21 Playgrounds, 2 Ice Skating Rinks, Statues, and Fitness Circuit make this place a big draw for locals and tourists alike. Besides, the park soothes one’s eyes with its abundance of greenery. As many as 21,500 trees and seasonal blooming plants make for a spellbinding landscape.
The High Line
Built on an elevated rail viaduct, it is among the most loved public parks of the city. Enjoy gazing at the stars, planets and the moon through sophisticated telescopes at the Amateur Astronomers Association. Kids get the chance to interact with experts and get some fun-packed lessons in astronomy. The High Line hosts several interesting events each summer including Arty Hours, which is an art and craft programme, and Lawn Time, an excellent amalgamation of magic shows and musical performances.
Staten Island Ferry
The last vestige of the ferry system in New York, Staten Island Ferry is the only non-vehicular mode of transportation between Manhattan and Staten Island. Also a popular tourist attraction, a 25-minute ride aboard the ferry promises magnificent vistas of Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the Lower Manhattan skyline and New York harbour, and the best part is – it’s absolutely free. The ferry offers outdoor and indoor seating on multiple levels, and even boasts a snack bar.