The Best New York City Itinerary

Location: New York City

Are you ready to explore NYC with your family? Follow our curated three or four-day New York City itinerary packed with sights, delicious eats, and family-friendly activities.

This is the itinerary that I put together for the most recent trip we took to New York. It was my kid’s first time visiting the Big Apple and I wanted them to experience the most iconic attractions that NYC is known for.

Table of Contents

The Best New York City Itinerary

Day 1: Midtown Marvels

Check-in at the Thompson Central Park: Start your adventure with a convenient stay at Thompson Central Park, centrally located for easy access to attractions. We loved our stay here and were even able to book on points. It is only a 10 minute walk from Times Square and a 5 minute walk to Central Park.
Top of the Rock: Begin your trip with breathtaking views from Top of the Rock. Spend at least an hour soaking in the skyline and don’t miss the new Beam experience for an unforgettable photo op. There are a few options for viewing platforms, but this would be the one I recommend you add to your New York City itinerary.
Ice Skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center: If you are visiting during winter, glide across the ice at Rockefeller Center. It’s a quintessential New York experience!
FAO Schwarz: Dive into interactive fun at FAO Schwarz. Whether it’s crafting putty, designing a handbag, or visiting the Jellycat Cafe, there’s something for every kid (and kid at heart).
Dinner at Don Antonio’s: Refuel with a slice of legendary New York Pizza at Don Antonio’s, right in the heart of Times Square. Then take in the bright lights as you walk home.

Day 2: Times Square & Broadway Bliss

Carnegie Diner: Kickstart your day with Pancake Lollipops at Carnegie Diner before heading to Times Square.
Times Square: Immerse yourself in the neon lights and bustling energy of Times Square from the Red Stairs. Make custom M&Ms, sip a Frrrozen Hot Chocolate at Serendipity, and explore the Disney Store. We also got a great family photo from the photographers who walk around offering to take your picture. We paid $10 per picture and only kept what we wanted.
Grab a light lunch at Schnippers: This is a quick service restaurant, so reservations aren’t necessary. It’s a great place to grab a quick bite before a show.
Matinee Broadway Show: Catch a family-friendly Broadway show like The Lion King, Hamilton, or Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. Aim for a 1:00 or a 2:00 show if you have kids. This will be the most expensive stop on your New York City itinerary, but in my opinion, totally worth it to introduce your family to the Arts.
Dinner at Bacall’s: Enjoy a delicious dinner at Bacall’s after the show.

Day 3: Central Park & Downtown Delights

Rainbow Bagel at Liberty Bagels: Start your day with a colorful treat at Liberty Bagels. There are several locations throughout the city. Arrive early to avoid the long line that forms.
Central Park: Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park, enjoying the scenery on your way to the Museum of Natural History.
The Museum of Natural History: This world-renowned museum is a must-visit for families, featuring fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and the natural world. Don’t miss the life-sized blue whale.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner: Have lunch at Ellen’s Stardust Diner for a unique dining experience with singing waitstaff. This was a highlight for us, so be sure to add it to your New York City itinerary.
Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum: Rub shoulders with celebrities at Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum.
Grand Central Station: take a peek inside the largest train station in the world.
New York Public Library: Stop by the iconic New York Public Library, a beautiful historic landmark perfect for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts.
Black Tap Burgers: Indulge in famous milkshakes at Black Tap Burgers for a sweet treat.

Day 4: Explore Lower Manhattan

If you check out of your hotel today, leave your bags at the front desk so you can have a few more hours to explore. You will have to take an Uber or a taxi down to the pedestrian entrance of the Brooklyn Bridge. Today we are going to explore Lower Manhattan.

Brooklyn Bridge: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning city views.
Wall Street Walking Tour: These are all quick stops and they are clustered together. Visit iconic spots such as:
- The New York Stock Exchange (the largest stock exchange in the world)
- Fearless Girl Statue (this statue faces the NY Stock Exchange and acts as a symbol of gender diversity in the workplace)
- Federal Hall (where George Washington took the oath of office as our first President)
- Trinity Church (where Alexander Hamilton is buried)
- Charging Bull Statue (symbolizes the American spirit, the power of the American people, and the strength of the New York economy)
Fraunces Tavern: end with lunch at the historic Fraunces Tavern (oldest standing privately-owned structure in New York, known as the watering hole for many of the founding fathers such as Alexander Hamilton)

Tips for visiting New York City

Keep an eye on the forecast and adjust your New York City itinerary as needed. On clear days, prioritize outdoor activities like Top of the Rock for the best views. Northeast weather can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.

I had to reverse my whole itinerary when I looked at the weather and saw that we would only have one clear day. The rest of the activities were indoors and didn’t matter if it rained or snowed. Bundle up in the winter!

I highly recommend making dining reservations whenever possible. While many restaurants don’t accept them, the lines tend to move quickly. Still, I always try to avoid waiting in lines with kids whenever I can.