Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Hudson Yards
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Hudson Yards
1. Edge
Step onto a sky-high outdoor deck 100 floors up for sweeping views, a glass floor panel that thrills brave kids, and wind-in-your-hair photo ops over Manhattan’s West Side.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an unforgettable way for kids to grasp NYC’s scale without a long museum visit—quick, dazzling, and stroller-accessible via elevators.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning on weekdays for shorter queues; sunset for dramatic colors. Winter skies are clearest; summer evenings are pleasant.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head straight to the glass-floor corner first before it bottlenecks, then circle the deck. Bring a light layer—winds can be brisk even in summer.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the smooth logistics and wow factor; many note even cautious kids warm up quickly after peeking through the glass floor.
2. The High Line
An elevated park beginning beside Hudson Yards with gardens, public art, and rail-yard views—perfect for a stroller-friendly walk with frequent benches.
✓ Why Go:
Kids can spot trains below, hunt for sculptures, and stretch their legs between sights without crossing busy streets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for calm paths; late afternoon for soft light. Spring blooms and fall colors are standouts.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the northern 30th Street elevator to start; restrooms and water fountains are near key access points—snap a family photo at the Spur’s big art plinth.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the car-free stroll and easy pacing for little legs; parents praise plentiful seating and frequent snack detours.
3. Vessel
The honeycomb landmark at Hudson Yards is a magnet for family photos and a dramatic centerpiece to run around in the plaza below.
✓ Why Go:
Even from ground level, kids are captivated by the angles, reflections, and splashy plaza fountains that invite a playful pause.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning for fewer crowds; evenings for golden reflections and seasonal lights around the holidays.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check day-of status for any access updates; if climbing isn’t available, circle the base for the best upward shots.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents report it’s a quick, free wow-moment that makes the area feel special—great as a first or last stop on a Hudson Yards loop.
4. The Shed
A striking arts center with a telescoping shell that hosts installations, performances, and family-friendly cultural programs steps from the plaza.
✓ Why Go:
Short-format exhibits and bold visuals keep kids engaged while giving parents a design and architecture fix.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoons on weekends for family programs; check the calendar for free or low-cost events.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop inside the lobby even without tickets to admire the architecture and check same-day availability for exhibitions.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Guests highlight approachable staff and eye-catching shows; many note kids are curious about the moving building itself.
5. The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards
A bright, climate-controlled break for families with easy restrooms, elevator access, window-shopping, and plenty of grab-and-go bites.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the convenient pit stop between outdoor attractions—snacks, bathrooms, seating, and stroller-friendly corridors in one place.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning or mid-afternoon to avoid lunch and dinner rushes; ideal on rainy or very hot days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head to higher floors for quieter seating and sweet treats; use the east-side exits to link quickly to the High Line.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families appreciate the convenience and cleanliness; kids enjoy the glossy escalators and dessert stops.
6. Mercado Little Spain
A lively food hall by the Hudson Yards southern entrance serving shareable Spanish classics—think churros, croquetas, and tortilla—at casual counters.
✓ Why Go:
Kid-friendly flavors, quick service, and plenty of seating make refueling easy; adventurous eaters can sample new tastes without a long sit-down meal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late lunch or early dinner to beat crowds; weekend mornings are mellow for churros and hot chocolate.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab a tray and mix counter orders so kids can try a little of everything; seats near the perimeter are stroller-friendly.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the festive vibe and quick options; kids give top marks to the churros station.
7. Public Square & Gardens at Hudson Yards
Landscaped paths, seating steps, and seasonal plantings create an open-air living room for families right beneath the skyline.
✓ Why Go:
Let kids wiggle and wander between attractions without street crossings, then regroup on the steps for snacks and people-watching.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late spring through fall for greenery; evenings for a breezy cooldown after a High Line walk.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a small picnic and sit on the amphitheater-style steps facing Vessel; look for gentle water features on warm days.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors love the calm pockets amid the city buzz and the easy stroller maneuvering through wide paths.
8. Pier 62 Carousel
A riverside carousel in Hudson River Park featuring NYC-native animals with skyline views and breezes off the Hudson.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an affordable, quick-hit joy for younger kids—pair it with a riverside walk or playground time nearby.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Warm-weather afternoons and early evenings; check seasonal hours before you go.
✓ Insider Tip:
Combine with a sunset stroll on the Hudson River Greenway; bring cashless payment as some seasons go card-only.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a charming detour that feels worlds away from Midtown crowds.
9. Chelsea Waterside Park Playground
A revamped, color-forward playground with a towering slide, water play in summer, and plenty of seating for grownups.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the best nearby spot for kids to fully run, climb, and cool off between cultural stops.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings for shade and space; summer afternoons for the splash features.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a change of clothes for water play; clean restrooms are just across the path within the park complex.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents love the smart design and safety surfacing; kids beg for extra time on the big slide.
10. Moynihan Train Hall
A soaring, light-filled train hall with eye-catching public art, big clocks for time-spotting, and plenty of space to watch trains come and go.
✓ Why Go:
Transit-loving kids adore the bustle, while parents enjoy clean facilities, good coffee, and quick eats steps from Hudson Yards.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late mornings for elbow room; evenings for dramatic lighting and a calmer vibe.
✓ Insider Tip:
Wander up to the mezzanine for overhead views and quick family photos without the crowd below.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors appreciate the calm compared to old Penn Station and call it a surprisingly fun mini-stop for families.
