Itinerary for 5 day trip to New York

New York City is a fantastic place for families, and there’s so much to see and do. Here’s a fun and family-friendly 5-day itinerary that includes parks, green spaces, and museums. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: & The Upper West Side

Morning:

: Start your adventure with a stroll through . You can rent bikes or take a leisurely walk. Don’t miss the iconic Bethesda Terrace and the Bow Bridge. Kids will love the , where they can see penguins and sea lions!

Lunch:

Picnic in the Park: Grab some sandwiches from a nearby deli (like Zabar’s) and enjoy a picnic on the Great Lawn or by the Alice in Wonderland statue.

Afternoon:

: Just a short walk from the park, this museum is a hit with families. The dinosaur exhibits and the planetarium are particularly popular. Plan to spend a few hours here!

Evening:

Dinner on the Upper West Side: Try a family-friendly restaurant like Jacob’s Pickles for some comfort food.

Day 2: Midtown &

Morning:

: Start your day with a walk on the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track. It’s a unique way to see the city and enjoy some greenery.

Lunch:

: After your walk, head to for lunch. There are plenty of options, from tacos to artisanal sandwiches.

Afternoon:

: This museum is perfect for younger kids, with interactive exhibits and play areas.

Evening:

: Head to to soak in the bright lights and energy. You can grab dinner at a family-friendly spot like Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where the waitstaff performs Broadway tunes!

Day 3: Brooklyn Adventure

Morning:

: Walk across the iconic . The views of Manhattan are stunning, and it’s a great photo op!

Lunch:

: Once in Brooklyn, explore the area. Grab lunch at Time Out Market, where you can choose from various food vendors.

Afternoon:

: After lunch, let the kids run around in . There are playgrounds, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the Manhattan skyline.

Evening:

Dinner in Brooklyn: Try a pizza at the famous Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s. After dinner, you can stroll along the waterfront for a lovely view of the city lights.

Day 4: Museums & More Parks

Morning:

: Spend the morning at The Met. They have a family guide and kid-friendly activities, so it’s engaging for all ages.

Lunch:

The Met’s Cafeteria: Enjoy lunch at the museum’s cafeteria or head to a nearby café.

Afternoon:

: Take a short trip to , a branch of The Met dedicated to medieval art. The gardens are beautiful and peaceful, perfect for a family stroll.

Evening:

Dinner on the Upper East Side: Try a family-friendly restaurant like Serafina for some Italian cuisine.

Day 5: Lower Manhattan & Staten Island

Morning:

: Start your day at . The kids can enjoy the playground, and you can take in views of the Statue of Liberty.

Lunch:

: Hop on the (it’s free!) for a fun boat ride with great views of the Statue of Liberty. You can grab lunch at one of the eateries on Staten Island.

Afternoon:

: If time allows, visit the , which has interactive exhibits and activities for kids.

Evening:

Return to Manhattan: Head back to Manhattan and enjoy a farewell dinner at a family-friendly restaurant in the Financial District, like , which has a bit of history to it!

Tips:

Transportation: Consider getting a MetroCard for easy subway access. It’s a great way to get around the city!
Pace Yourself: NYC can be overwhelming, so take breaks and enjoy the little moments.
Weather Check: Be sure to check the weather and adjust your plans accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to New York City! Enjoy every moment! 🌆🗽🌳