Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in the Financial District
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in the Financial District
1. One World Observatory
Ride sky-high to panoramic views atop One World Trade Center. Interactive exhibits and the glass Sky Portal keep kids engaged while grown-ups soak up sweeping harbor and skyline vistas.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the ultimate WOW moment for kids—an easy way to understand the city’s layout and spot landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge in one go.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning on weekdays for the shortest lines and clearest views; late afternoon for golden-hour photos.
✓ Insider Tip:
Book timed-entry tickets and head straight to the Sky Portal first—crowds build later. Elevators are stroller-friendly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the smooth experience and jaw-dropping views, calling it a memorable first stop in Lower Manhattan.
2. The Oculus
Step into Santiago Calatrava’s soaring, birdlike transit hub and mall. Kids love watching trains below while parents appreciate the airy architecture and easy food options.
✓ Why Go:
It’s free, climate-controlled, and visually striking—perfect for a snack break, bathroom stop, and a quick architecture lesson.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid commuter rush hours.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ride the escalators to the upper mezzanine for the best family photo with the ribbed ceiling and Freedom Tower in the background.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe it as clean, convenient, and photogenic—an unexpected hit with kids between bigger attractions.
3. 9/11 Memorial
Two vast reflecting pools trace the Twin Towers’ footprints, ringed by names and shaded by trees. The Survivor Tree offers a quiet moment of resilience for families.
✓ Why Go:
It introduces older kids to a pivotal moment in history with a calm, contemplative outdoor space right in the heart of the district.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for a quieter experience; evenings offer a peaceful, softly lit atmosphere.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the ramps along the plaza for strollers and keep voices hushed—this is an active memorial. Restrooms are nearby in the Oculus.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Most visitors call it moving and beautifully designed, appreciating the opportunity to talk thoughtfully with kids.
4. SeaGlass Carousel
Glide inside shimmering, luminescent fish at this whimsical, music-filled carousel set within The Battery—pure kid joy with harbor breezes.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a uniquely artistic ride that delights toddlers through tweens and offers a gentle break between sightseeing stops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon or dusk when the lights glow; weekdays for shorter queues.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a small snack to enjoy on nearby benches afterward; restrooms are a short walk within The Battery.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents call it magical and photogenic; kids often ask to ride twice.
5. Staten Island Ferry
A free round-trip ride from Whitehall Terminal delivers unbeatable views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the skyline—no tickets, no fuss.
✓ Why Go:
Budget-friendly and stroller-accessible, it’s a breezy way for kids to experience New York Harbor without committing to a long cruise.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Sunset for dramatic light; mid-morning on weekdays for fewer crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the starboard side leaving Manhattan for the best Statue of Liberty views; bring a light jacket—windy on deck.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the value and views, often calling it a surprise trip highlight.
6. South Street Seaport Museum
Explore historic galleries and step aboard lovingly restored tall ships along the East River, bringing New York’s maritime story to life.
✓ Why Go:
Hands-on family programs and ship visits let kids imagine life at sea while learning how the port shaped the city.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekends for family activities; arrive early to secure ship access.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the print shop on Fulton Street—demonstrations fascinate kids and make for quick, educational stops.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors applaud the friendly staff and interactive exhibits, noting it’s underrated and engaging for school-age kids.
7. Pier
A bright waterfront hub with open-air seating, seasonal pop-ups, and sweeping views of the Brooklyn Bridge—space for kids to roam safely.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an easy, stroller-friendly place to unwind, snack, and watch boats and bridges after museum time.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning for calm vibes or early evening for golden-light views and cooler temps.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to the upper levels for shade and bridge photos; bring a small picnic to enjoy on the seating steps.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the relaxed atmosphere and iconic views, calling it a perfect reset stop.
8. Federal Hall National Memorial
Stand where George Washington took the oath of office and browse compact exhibits in a stately, columned hall—history made tangible for kids.
✓ Why Go:
Short, digestible displays offer a quick civics lesson amid Wall Street’s canyons, ideal for attention spans of all ages.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday for steady ranger talks; mornings are quieter for photos with the Washington statue.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop inside for cooling AC and free brochures that double as kid-friendly scavenger hunt prompts.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised as small but meaningful, with knowledgeable rangers and great photo ops.
9. Trinity Church Wall Street
This iconic Gothic Revival church offers peaceful gardens and historic gravestones—including Alexander Hamilton’s—steps from Wall Street.
✓ Why Go:
A quiet, shady break with built-in history; kids can spot familiar names from Hamilton lore while adults admire the architecture.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning or early afternoon when the churchyard has dappled shade.
✓ Insider Tip:
Walk the perimeter paths with strollers; look for the small plaques that turn the graveyard into a self-guided history walk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a serene oasis and a surprising hit for Hamilton fans.
10. Charging Bull
Snap the quintessential Wall Street photo with Arturo Di Modica’s bronze bull at Bowling Green—kids love the larger-than-life sculpture.
✓ Why Go:
It’s quick, free, and iconic—an energetic counterpoint to the neighborhood’s museums and memorials.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning to avoid lines; weekdays are noticeably calmer than weekends.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand slightly to the side for a full bull-and-skyline shot and a shorter wait than the front-on pose.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Crowded but fun; families say the photo is a must-do souvenir of the Financial District.
