Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Bryant Park
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Bryant Park
1. Bryant Park
A leafy Midtown oasis with moveable chairs, shady trees, a lawn for picnics, seasonal programming, and kid-pleasers like ping-pong, a games cart, storytimes, and outdoor movies.
✓ Why Go:
It’s free, centrally located, and packed with family-friendly amenities—including clean restrooms, plenty of seating, and frequent kid-focused events—making it an easy win between sights.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through early fall for lawn time; early mornings to beat crowds. In winter, visit for decorations and rink views without skating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Borrow classic board games from the Games Cart with a photo ID and snack at nearby kiosks while kids play on the lawn.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the safe, well-kept feel and nonstop activities, calling it a relaxing reset from Midtown’s buzz.
2. Le Carrousel at Bryant Park
A charming French-style carousel of whimsical animals tucked along the park’s south side—gentle, musical, and just the right pace for younger riders.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quick, classic NYC memory for little ones, steps from open space where siblings can run while they wait.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays in spring and fall for short lines and pleasant shade.
✓ Insider Tip:
Buy multiple rides at once if you have more than one kid and pair the spin with a sweet treat from a nearby kiosk.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents rave about the nostalgia and easy smiles per minute; kids often ask for “one more ride.”
3. New York Public Library – Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
The iconic library with its lion guardians, grand halls, and rotating free exhibitions—an inspiring stop for book-loving families and photo fans.
✓ Why Go:
It blends history and awe-inspiring architecture with bite-size exhibits; a great calm counterpoint to Midtown’s bustle.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings for quieter galleries and easier stroller navigation.
✓ Insider Tip:
Snap a family photo with Patience and Fortitude on the Fifth Avenue steps, then pop across the street to the circulating library for the kids’ section.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors describe it as magical and surprisingly engaging for school-age kids who enjoy “treasure-hunt” exploring.
4. Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library (SNFL)
NYPL’s modern central circulating branch with a dedicated Children’s Center, teen spaces, cozy reading nooks, and a rooftop terrace for fresh-air breaks.
✓ Why Go:
Free storytimes and hands-on activities make it a low-cost, high-reward stop; elevators and wide aisles are stroller-friendly.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings for family programs; check the day’s schedule before you go.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head for the Children’s Center to browse picture books and unwind; save a few minutes for the rooftop terrace afterward.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the welcoming staff, bright spaces, and easy access from Bryant Park.
5. Kinokuniya New York
A three-level Japanese bookstore facing Bryant Park with English and Japanese kids’ books, manga, plushies, and stationery—plus a cozy cafe upstairs.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an instant crowd-pleaser for readers and anime fans and a calm retreat when little legs need a break.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings; weekends can be shoulder-to-shoulder in the manga aisles.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the lower level for the best English-language kids’ selection and snag a window seat in the cafe overlooking the park.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a hidden gem where kids happily choose a souvenir book instead of another plastic trinket.
6. Grand Central Terminal
A Beaux-Arts masterpiece with a starry ceiling, whispering gallery, and train-watching galore—an easy, weatherproof wander with snacks nearby.
✓ Why Go:
It’s free, majestic, and interactive: try the whispering gallery, count constellations, and browse the market for kid-approved bites.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning on weekdays for elbow room on the Main Concourse.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand at opposite corners of the whispering gallery by the Oyster Bar and speak softly—kids love the secret sound trick.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families are wowed by the grandeur and appreciate the clean restrooms and clear signage.
7. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
A multi-sensory observation deck next to Grand Central with mirrored rooms, reflective art, and epic views that feel like walking in the sky.
✓ Why Go:
Older kids and teens love the immersive rooms and glass ledges; it’s a showstopper minutes from Bryant Park.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning or late evening time slots to avoid peak crowds; sunset is dazzling but busiest.
✓ Insider Tip:
Mirrored floors mean bright glare—bring sunglasses and consider pants instead of skirts. Secure phones for those glass-ledge selfies.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reviews call it unforgettable and photogenic, with parents noting it’s pricey but worth the splurge.
8. Times Square
A neon-lit canyon of supersize screens, pedestrian plazas, and nonstop people-watching—a quick, high-energy hit for kids.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the NYC moment kids imagine; visit briefly, snap photos, then retreat to calmer streets nearby.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning to avoid crowds, or after dusk for the full lights-and-billboards effect.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stick to the pedestrian plazas, set a family meeting spot, and skip interactions with costumed characters if you’re not prepared to tip.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Kids are dazzled; adults find it chaotic but agree it’s a must-see once.
9. New Victory Theater
A beloved nonprofit theater dedicated to young audiences, staging inventive family shows—puppetry, circus, dance, and more—just off Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
It delivers age-appropriate productions and pre-show lobby activities that make theatergoing fun, not fussy.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend matinees for the most family-friendly schedules and energy.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check age recommendations and arrive early—staff often run hands-on “try-a-skill” activities related to the show.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the quality-to-price ratio and say even wiggly kids stay engaged.
10. Bryant Park Winter Village
From late fall into winter, the park transforms with a centerpiece ice rink and dozens of festive holiday shops surrounding it.
✓ Why Go:
Skating under Midtown’s towers feels cinematic, and the market stalls offer easy gifts and warm treats for little hands.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings or afternoons outside major holidays; book timed skate sessions early in the season.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring your own skates to save on rental costs and stash essentials in a small crossbody to breeze through entry.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a holiday highlight—sparkly, spirited, and surprisingly affordable with smart planning.
