Things to Do in NYC with a 5 Year Old

Updated on February 01, 2012
P.G. asks from San Antonio, TX
4 answers

We'll be visiting NYC next week for 3 full days (plus 1/2 day before we head back to TX). My hubby, son and I will be meeting up with my older sis and her son (he's 25). Older sis has already said she wants to babysit so hubby and I can do something together. My brain is stuck as to things to do. Museum-wise, my son likes the hands on stuff. Weather could be an issue.

Anyone have any ideas on how we can spend our time? Hubby's thinking Top of the Rock, Statue of Liberty, Central Park (carriage ride, carousel, etc.). Any festivals between Feb 9th-11th?

Thanks so much!

2 moms found this helpful

What can I do next?

  • Add yourAnswer own comment
  • Ask your own question Add Question
  • Join the Mamapedia community Mamapedia
  • as inappropriate
  • this with your friends

More Answers

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

J.F.

answers from Las Vegas on

We took our family to NYC when our youngest was 5 1/2, and all of us, from the youngest to the oldest, had a great time!

We went to the Statue of Liberty and toured Ellis Island; got sandwiches at Carnegie and ate in Central Park, then went for a carriage ride around the park; went to 3 Broadway plays---with the 5 year old (he did great and loved them); walked around Chinatown and Little Italy; toured NBC studios; went to the WTC site and the church near the site; had private tour of NY Stock Exchange; toured Federal Hall; went to Battery Park and walked around surrounding area.

Our little one also loved FAO Schwartz, and that is one thing you can do if the weather isn't cooperating. Another big highlight for him was meeting "Spiderman" on the street and getting his picture taken with him while we were just out walking around. He really had fun everywhere we went, and it was a great opportunity to teach him about history, commerce, and so many different cultures in a way that he could understand.

That was right before he started Kindergarten (about a year and a half ago), and he still talks about the trip and all we did. This year, he was informing his first grade class about Central Park, and his memories were so vivid, his teacher couldn't wait to tell me about his story and all of his animated details. So, even though your son is young, he will still appreciate and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

I don't know of any festivals during that time, but I'm sure you could google and find out.

Whatever you do, I'm sure you will have a great time, and it will be a wonderful experience that will make wonderful memories for your son as well as for you and your husband!

Hope you get some decent weather. Enjoy!

J. F.

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

A.V.

answers from San Francisco on

There are a couple sites that could be really helpful, try looking at Red Tricycle and Mommy Poppins. Mommy Poppins is specifically geared towards NYC and I'm pretty sure Red Tricycle also has an NYC regional site too. Have a great trip!!

1 mom found this helpful

T.S.

answers from San Francisco on

Natural History Museum, Central Park Zoo, Toy R Us at Times Square (there's a carousel inside, and go at night so you can see the lights!)
Also the Staten Island Ferry is a great ride across the harbor and it's free!
Have fun :)

1 mom found this helpful
Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

M.C.

answers from Washington DC on

FAO Shwartz
Ice skating at Rockafeller Center
Radio City Music (near the Empire State bldg.)

1 mom found this helpful
For Updates and Special Promotions
Follow Us

Related Questions