5 day itinerary for New York

Itinerary

New York City is such a vibrant place, and there’s so much to see and do, especially for a family. Here’s a fun and engaging 5-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, activities for the kids, and some downtime for the adults. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Central Park Adventure

Morning:

• Arrive in NYC and check into your hotel. If you’re staying in Midtown, you’ll be close to many attractions!
• Grab a quick breakfast at a nearby café. Try a classic New York bagel with cream cheese!

Afternoon:

• Head to Central Park. Rent bikes or take a leisurely stroll. The park is huge, and there are plenty of playgrounds for the kids. Don’t miss the Central Park Zoo where they can see penguins and sea lions!

Evening:

• Have dinner at The Boathouse in Central Park. It’s a lovely spot with views of the lake. Kids will love the atmosphere!
• If everyone’s up for it, take a short walk to Times Square to see the bright lights and maybe grab a sweet treat from a nearby shop.

## Day 2: Museums and More

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to the American Museum of Natural History. The dinosaur exhibits are a hit with kids, and there’s so much to explore!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the museum café or a nearby deli.
• After lunch, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. While it’s a big museum, you can focus on the family-friendly sections, like the Egyptian artifacts and the rooftop garden (weather permitting).

Evening:

• Dinner in the Upper East Side. Try Serafina for some delicious Italian food that the kids will love.
• If everyone’s not too tired, consider catching a family-friendly Broadway show. Check out what’s playing and see if you can snag some tickets!

## Day 3: Iconic NYC Landmarks

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at a classic diner, like Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where the waitstaff sings!
• After breakfast, head to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the ferry from Battery Park. The kids will love the boat ride!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Fraunces Tavern in the Financial District, a historic spot with a kid-friendly menu.
• After lunch, visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. It’s a poignant experience, but the museum has family guides to help explain things to kids.

Evening:

• Head to Brooklyn for dinner at Juliana’s Pizza. The pizza is legendary, and the atmosphere is casual and family-friendly.
• After dinner, take a stroll on the Brooklyn Bridge back to Manhattan. The views of the skyline at night are breathtaking!

## Day 4: Fun and Learning

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a nearby café.
• Visit the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. It’s interactive and perfect for kids to explore and learn through play.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a nearby spot, then head to The High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway line. It’s a great place to walk, and there are often art installations and performances.
• Explore the Chelsea Market for some snacks or treats. It’s a fun place to wander and sample different foods.

Evening:

• Dinner in the West Village at The Spotted Pig, a cozy gastropub with a great atmosphere.
• If the kids have energy left, consider a visit to Washington Square Park for some evening fun. There’s often live music and street performers!

## Day 5: Departure and Last-Minute Fun

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• Depending on your departure time, you might have a chance to visit The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. The aircraft carrier is fascinating for both kids and adults!

Afternoon:

• Grab a quick lunch nearby, then it’s time to head back to your hotel to check out and prepare for your journey home.
• If time allows, take a final stroll through Times Square or pick up some souvenirs!

Tips:

• Make sure to wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
• Consider getting a CityPASS for discounts on attractions.
• Always check the weather and plan accordingly, especially for outdoor activities.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in New York City with your family! Enjoy your trip! 🌆✨