Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in January
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in January
1. American Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, giant whales, dazzling gems, and immersive dioramas make this a warm, all-day adventure that keeps kids engaged when it’s cold out. The planetarium’s space shows feel extra cozy on brisk winter days.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the ultimate indoor crowd-pleaser with exhibits that spark curiosity across ages, perfect for a January escape from the chill.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings in January after New Year’s week are quieter; arrive at opening to breeze through popular halls.
✓ Insider Tip:
Prebook timed entry and hit the dinosaur halls first; bring layers—coat checks can get busy on very cold days.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the scale and variety, noting kids stay entertained for hours and beg to return.
2. Brooklyn Children’s Museum
This colorful, interactive museum lets little ones build, pretend, splash, and explore cultures through hands-on play—ideal for burning energy indoors.
✓ Why Go:
Designed for kids, it turns learning into playtime while giving parents a warm, relaxed break from winter weather.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late mornings on weekdays in January tend to be mellow; school holidays can be busier.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack grippy socks for tots and plan a snack break—nearby Crown Heights eateries are great for quick bites.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents applaud the thoughtful exhibits for multiple age groups and the staff’s welcoming vibe.
3. New York Hall of Science
Hundreds of hands-on experiments let kids tinker with light, motion, coding, and more—all inside, all interactive.
✓ Why Go:
STEM fun that doesn’t feel like school, perfect for curious minds on cold January days.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midweek afternoons are peaceful; aim for early January or post–MLK Day for fewer crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the daily demo schedule on arrival and build your route around live shows to maximize your visit.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the “touch everything” ethos and say kids leave buzzing with ideas.
4. The Rink at Rockefeller Center
Glide beneath the Midtown skyline at NYC’s most iconic ice rink. Short sessions keep kids excited without getting too cold.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a postcard-perfect winter experience that’s easy to pair with nearby sights and warm cocoa stops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings or weekday evenings in January see shorter waits than the holiday rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Reserve skate times online and bring thin socks—rental skates fit better and stay warmer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it magical and worth the splurge for the memories and photos.
5. The Rink at Bryant Park
A spacious, city-center rink surrounded by skyline and trees, with easy spots nearby to thaw out between spins.
✓ Why Go:
Free admission skating (with your own skates) makes it a budget-friendly January highlight.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings and mid-afternoons in January are calmest; evenings add twinkly ambiance.
✓ Insider Tip:
If you don’t own skates, prebook rentals; warm up with hot chocolate on 40th Street after your session.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers praise the festive setting and central location that’s easy with kids.
6. New York Transit Museum
Housed in a decommissioned subway station, this museum invites kids to climb into vintage trains and buses and play conductor for the day.
✓ Why Go:
Trains plus history equals instant kid appeal—without braving long stretches outdoors.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
January weekdays are serene; aim for opening to have classic cars to yourselves.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a camera—photo ops on the old subway cars are fantastic. Strollers may need to be folded on stairs.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families describe it as a hidden gem that delights train-obsessed kids and grown-ups alike.
7. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
Explore an aircraft carrier, climb through a submarine, and stand beneath the space shuttle—epic feats of engineering in one waterfront complex.
✓ Why Go:
Big machines and interactive exhibits keep kids captivated, and most experiences are indoors or sheltered.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early January weekdays are quiet; mornings offer thinner crowds on the flight deck and shuttle pavilion.
✓ Insider Tip:
Dress in layers—the deck can be breezy even in winter. Don’t miss the hands-on simulators inside.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a wow-factor stop that sparks hours of imaginative play and questions.
8. Staten Island Ferry
A free round-trip ride past the Statue of Liberty and harbor views from warm indoor cabins—no tickets, no fuss.
✓ Why Go:
Budget-friendly sightseeing that doubles as an adventure for kids who love boats.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday in January offers good light and thinner commuter crowds; avoid weekday rush hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit on the starboard side from Manhattan for Lady Liberty views outbound; bundle up if you venture onto the outer deck.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families appreciate the value and skyline selfies without long lines.
9. One World Observatory
Ride a thrilling elevator to indoor, floor-to-ceiling views where kids can spot bridges, parks, and landmarks without braving the cold.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a warm, weatherproof way to capture the NYC skyline and learn the city’s story.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon in January sets up a gorgeous sunset-to-twilight transition on clear days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Prebook timed tickets and check visibility forecasts—clear days make all the difference.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Travelers call it breathtaking and stress-free compared to outdoor winter viewpoints.
10. New Victory Theater
Broadway’s family-focused theater hosts inventive shows—from puppetry to dance—that keep kids enthralled and warm on wintry nights.
✓ Why Go:
A cozy cultural outing that’s tailor-made for young audiences right in Times Square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Plan for weekend matinees in January for easier bedtimes; arrive early for lobby activities when offered.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check age recommendations before booking, and sit closer to the aisle for quick bathroom breaks with little ones.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the high-quality productions and welcoming staff who make first theater experiences smooth.
