trick the 911 memorial and Museum honors
the men women and children who passed
away on the September 11 2001 and
February 26 1993 attacks it serves as a
physical reminder for future generations
to understand what occurred the memorial
comprises underground twin pools
situated within the Twin Towers
foundations the names are etched in
bronze and form the tops of the walls
that surround each pool and you can even
hear testimonies of those who live to
tell the tale it may sound somber but
it's essential we all stay connected to
our past and take a tip from us take
some tissues number eight unique
neighborhoods now that we're all up to
date with the city's history feel free
to explore one of the many unique
neighborhoods in NYC you have options
like Harlem and Upper Manhattan
neighborhoods celebrated for its Rich
African-American Heritage vibrant Jazz
scene and delightful culinary offerings
then there's the Upper West Side
situated on the western edge of Central
Park renowned for its beautiful historic
New York architecture Columbia
University Chic shops and eateries and
iconic spots like the bars and the cafes
along Columbus Avenue alternatively you
might consider the Upper East Side
positioned on the Eastern side of
Central Park this area is known for its
opulent residences Museum mile upscale
dining establishments and landmarks such
as the Carlisle Hotel Midtown is famed
for its Lively atmosphere towering
skyscrapers exclusive residences and
Hidden Treasures like Gramercy Park on
the other hand downtown might be more
your speed where you'll find the
prestigious NYU number 7. theater and
Broadway shows now maybe you're eager to
catch a few famous shows or stars there
is no Business Like Show Business and
the Broadway shows in New York City are
unlike any other theater in the world
Broadway plays are ingrained in the
fabric of New York City and will leave
you feeling invigorated motivated and
singing your way across Times Square the
ancient theaters are intimate with no
terrible seats in the House the kind of
Talent on display makes the admission
price worthwhile look for deals using an
app like today ticks you can sign up for
alerts on discounted seats alternatively
Q at the tkts booth in Times Square
beneath the famed Steps either way
you're bound to love the experience and
sense of community
hey are you a Wanderer yet if not after
you've finished this video head over to
our travel blog at wonderfully
losttravel.com number six center
Rockefeller speaking of community what
better place to feel it than the
Rockefeller Center it's a fantastic
family-friendly attraction in New York
many NBC Blockbuster shows including
Saturday Night Live The Today Show and
Jimmy Fallon are based in this renowned
Manhattan neighborhood not to mention
Radio City Music Hall the Rockefeller
Center rink Channel Gardens the Top of
the Rock Observation Deck and loads of
dining and shopping you can even head to
the LEGO store and be captivated by the
Lego rendition of New York City it's
incredible at the NBC Studio store the
youngsters can enjoy having their photos
taken in the famed red chair from the
television show The Voice but there's
more fun in store number 5. Times Square
situated on 42nd Street Times Square
serves as the gateway to Broadway and
all things related to theater it's
renowned for its dazzling lights Dynamic
atmosphere and the iconic New Year's Eve
ball drop the area is bustling and
energetic maintaining its liveliness
around the clock for a truly special
experience consider visiting in the
evening to witness the midnight moment
since 2012 each night from 11 57 pm to
12 a.m
364 nights a year times squares
Billboards undergo a remarkable
transformation into an Art Exhibit
during this time all 92 advertising
displays switched from their usual ads
to vibrant digital displays creating a
captivating visual spectacle except the
glitz and life don't stop here number
four the bustling nightlife New York
City offers one of the best nightlife
scenes in the world you may enjoy
sunsets over the sea see the skyline lit
up go to shows eat all of your favorite
dishes and dance till dawn if you want
to spend some time alone and interest
effective go view the Statue of Liberty
and take the Staten Island Ferry there
are even nocturnal bus rides available
if exploring NYC at night is your thing
listen to some great jazz to transport
yourself back in time alternatively eat
your way through Chinatown and Little
Italy if you want something a little
finer try the NYC dinner cruises enjoy a
freshly prepared three-course dinner at
your table whether it's a date or a
family dinner you're all going to have a
great time number three the world famous
Lincoln Center on West 65th Street New
York City is blessed to have the one and
only Lincoln Center for the Performing
Arts it's one of New York's most
treasured locations Lincoln Center is
home to the New York City Ballet the
Metropolitan Opera and the New York
Philharmonic all of which perform in the
complex as stunning Halls the Juilliard
school campuses near Lincoln Center
where some of the world's brightest
young Talent is trained and here's a fun
fact for you the legendary Robin
Williams was a Juilliard alumni too
these facilities are another reason to
adore New York and its support for the
Arts do you enjoy ballet opera or
Symphonies well you're in luck because
Premier performances happen at Lincoln
Center which is one to remember number
two Highline so have you heard of the
Highline climb the steps outside the
Whitney Museum to reach The High Line
This is a must do at any time of the
year from gansport Street to 34th Street
The High Line is a 1.4 mile walk it's a
public park on Manhattan's West Side
built atop a vintage Freight rail line
raised above the streets in 2009 people
spared the old rail line from Demolition
and transformed it into one of nyc's
most spectacular sustainable green Art
and Design places open from 7am to 7pm
in the winter and until 10 pm in the
summer it's ideal for a sunset Excursion
the exhibition is a testament to the
creativity that flows within NYC number
one quality food now if you're done
taking in the city's sites you need
quality food with quality people to keep
up all flavors nationalities and hours
of day are welcome every visit means
finding a new favorite restaurant the
cuisine is a highlight of the entire NYC
trip so we recommend making reservations
and including your meal on the
sightseeing day you will not be sorry
check out Dante an Italian Cafe Bar and
Restaurant in Greenwich Village or
Jack's wife Frida has four venues that
are ideal for brunch if you're eager to
experiment then head on over to Lola
Taverna in SoHo which serves Greek
cuisine in a welcoming Ambiance except
if you're more of a seafood person then
lure Fish Bar in SoHo serves Exquisite
sushi in a boat-like setting either way
your taste buds will thank you so are
you already planning your itinerary for
when you visit the Big Apple we hope
this video has helped thanks for
watching don't forget to like And
subscribe foreign
Welcome back to Wanderfully Lost – your ultimate family travel guide! Today, we’re embarking on an exciting journey to the dazzling world of New York City! This vibrant metropolis is a treasure trove of experiences for travelers of all ages.
Join us as we uncover 11 fantastic reasons why the Big Apple shines as the top family vacation destination this year.
Before you get lost in our blog, be sure to browse our Wanderful Storefront for all our favorite travel products, gear and must haves!
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1. Diverse Cultural Experience
New York City is a true melting pot of cultures, making it an educational and enriching experience for families.
In neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy, children have the chance to immerse themselves in rich cultural experiences. In Chinatown, the vibrant streets are lined with traditional markets, where families can sample exotic fruits and explore unique shops filled with intriguing treasures. The colorful lanterns and ornate architecture create an immersive environment that transports visitors to the heart of Chinese culture.
On the other hand, Little Italy offers a taste of Italy’s culinary delights with its charming eateries and authentic gelato shops. Families can enjoy pasta-making classes or savor delectable pastries while soaking in the neighborhood’s warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Fun Fact: Did you know that the United Nations Headquarters is located in New York City? It’s an excellent place for families to learn about international diplomacy and global cooperation.
2. Iconic Landmarks
New York City’s iconic landmarks offer more than just visual splendor; they’re invaluable educational resources for children. The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, tells the story of immigration and the American dream.
Fun Fact: The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France, was dedicated on October 28, 1886, and has since become an enduring symbol of freedom and democracy.
Ellis Island lets us step into the shoes of immigrants, making us value our diverse heritage. And Central Park? It’s like a nature retreat right in the city, where kids can discover plants, animals, and why green spaces matter.
3. Broadway Shows and Family-Friendly Performances
Right in the heart of New York’s bustling theater district, families are in for a real treat! The stage is set for a world of enchantment with a lineup of beloved classics and thrilling new shows that promise to captivate both young and old.
Picture yourself transported to the African savannah with the majestic performance of “The Lion King,” complete with stunning costumes and mesmerizing puppetry. And who wouldn’t want to hop on a magic carpet for a ride through the vibrant streets of Agrabah in the dazzling world of “Aladdin”?
For those who can’t get enough of the wizarding world, “Harry Potter and the Cursed Child” weaves a spellbinding tale that continues the beloved saga. But the excitement doesn’t end on stage. Times Square, with its dazzling lights and infectious energy, is a whirlwind of entertainment.
And when hunger strikes, the options are endless! From themed eateries to quirky cafes, the theater district is a treasure trove of experiences that’ll leave you wide-eyed and craving for more.
Remember, no trip to New York City is complete without experiencing the magic of Broadway.
Fun Fact: The Lion King musical, one of Broadway’s longest-running shows, has been seen by over 100 million people worldwide.
4. World-Class Museums
The city is home to some of the world’s finest museums, many of which have tailored exhibits and activities for families.
The American Museum of Natural History, for example, offers interactive exhibits that captivate children’s imaginations while providing educational value. Famous for its colossal dinosaur skeletons and the awe-inspiring Hayden Planetarium, it’s a must-visit for any family.
Fun Fact: The “Night at the Museum” film series was inspired by the American Museum of Natural History.
The Children’s Museum of Manhattan provides hands-on exhibits that stimulate creativity and learning in youngsters, while the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum offers an immersive experience with historic aircraft and vessels. The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s “MetKids” program introduces children to art through interactive activities and kid-friendly tours.
The New York Hall of Science in Queens provides an engaging environment for young scientists with interactive exhibits on physics, biology, and more. Meanwhile, the Children’s Museum of the Arts encourages artistic exploration with a variety of workshops and exhibitions tailored to different age groups.
5. Educational Attractions
Beyond museums, New York City boasts a wealth of educational attractions.
The New York Hall of Science, for instance, provides hands-on exhibits that make science fun and accessible for young minds. The Bronx Zoo and the New York Aquarium offer opportunities for wildlife education and conservation awareness.
Fun Fact: The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world, spanning over 265 acres and housing over 6,000 animals.
Embarking on a family adventure? Learn from our experiences! Our family travel kit is loaded with must-haves for an amazing trip.
6. Family-Focused Accommodations
New York City is giving families a warm welcome like never before! Hotels and vacation rentals have stepped up their game with family-friendly amenities. Imagine playrooms to keep the little ones happy, babysitting services for some well-deserved adult time, and rooms specially designed for families.
The Plaza Hotel is a luxurious spot that’s also super family-friendly. They’ve got special themed rooms just for kids! Not far off, The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park, is right by the city’s famous park. It’s a fancy place that really cares about families, offering lots of services and fun stuff for all ages.
Fun Fact: The Eloise Suite at The Plaza Hotel is themed after the famous children’s book character, offering a whimsical and luxurious experience for families.
And then there’s The Loews Regency New York Hotel, rolling out the red carpet for families with specially designed packages. They’re all about making sure kids have a blast, making every family member feel at ease and happy.
7. Parks and Outdoor Activities
Contrary to popular belief, New York City is not all concrete and skyscrapers.
In recent years, the city has invested even more in creating green spaces and recreational areas for families to enjoy. The High Line, a converted elevated railway track, offers a unique perspective of the city, while playgrounds like Heckscher Playground in Central Park provide ample opportunities for kids to run, play, and make new friends.
Fun Fact: The High Line was originally built in the 1930s for freight trains and was transformed into an elevated park in 2009.
8. Culinary Adventures
New York City’s culinary scene is a microcosm of the world, and it’s more family-friendly than many other trending travel destinations. There are street vendors serving diverse fare and family-friendly restaurants with specialized kids’ meals.
Shake Shack, with its delectable burgers and shakes, promises a delightful dining experience for the whole family. And don’t forget about Ellen’s Stardust Diner, where kids can enjoy classic American comfort food while being entertained by singing waitstaff.
Fun Fact: There are over 13,000 street vendors in New York City, offering a wide variety of food options from around the globe.
From the mouthwatering offerings of street vendors like The Halal Guys to the family-friendly fare at Junior’s Restaurant, where kids can enjoy classics like grilled cheese or chicken tenders, New York City is a paradise for young foodies.
9. Interactive Experiences
The city’s immersive experiences have grown in popularity, offering families unique opportunities to engage with art, history, and technology.
Interactive exhibits like the Museum of Illusions and the Color Factory provide fun and thought-provoking experiences that cater to all ages, making learning a joyful endeavor.
Fun Fact: The Color Factory in New York City features 16 interactive installations designed to awaken creativity and inspire imagination.
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10. Safety and Accessibility
Over the years, New York City has made significant strides in enhancing safety and accessibility for families. Well-maintained parks, pedestrian-friendly streets, and an efficient public transportation system make it easy for parents to navigate the city with strollers and young children. Additionally, increased security measures have created a more secure environment for visitors.
Fun Fact: Central Park is patrolled by its own dedicated police force, known as the Central Park Precinct.
11. Memories for a Lifetime
This one tops off the list. A family vacation in New York City is not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Whether it’s watching the sunset over the Manhattan skyline, marveling at the lights of Times Square, or exploring the city’s hidden gems, the experiences shared in this vibrant city will undoubtedly strengthen family bonds and leave indelible impressions.
Fun Fact: Times Square is named after The New York Times, which moved its headquarters to the area in 1904. Today, it’s known for its dazzling billboards and as the focal point of the city’s New Year’s Eve celebrations.
And there you have it – the 11 reasons why NYC is the best family vacation destination right now! Believe us, there is a lot more to this town where dreams are made real.