Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Times Square
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids near Times Square
1. Times Square
The city’s neon heart is a sensory splash zone for kids, with towering LED billboards, the red TKTS steps, and street performers creating a lively, only-in-NYC scene.
✓ Why Go:
It’s the postcard moment of New York and an easy, no-ticket stop that thrills kids with color, sound, and sheer scale just steps from family-friendly shops and theaters.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning (8–10 am) for elbow room or just after sunset midweek to see the lights without peak crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pop over to nearby Bryant Park for clean restrooms and a breather; use the red steps at Duffy Square for elevated photos without blocking sidewalks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the wow factor but note it’s busiest on weekends; most recommend a short, focused visit before moving to calmer nearby stops.
2. Madame Tussauds New York
Wax celebrities, superheroes, and immersive sets invite kids to pose, play, and laugh their way through a pop-culture playground on 42nd Street.
✓ Why Go:
Photo ops with larger-than-life icons and interactive zones keep kids engaged, and it’s an easy rain-or-shine option minutes from Times Square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Right at opening on weekdays to breeze through popular rooms before tour groups arrive.
✓ Insider Tip:
Plan for 60–90 minutes; bring a charged phone for photos and consider starting at upper floors to work down as crowds build.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents say the themed rooms are a hit with school-age kids and tweens; some note lines form for superhero sets later in the day.
3. M&M's World Times Square
Three colorful floors feature a rainbow wall of M&M's, NYC-only merchandise, and spots to craft custom candy blends.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quick, kid-pleasing stop where souvenirs are edible and budgets can be small; perfect between attractions on 42nd and 45th Streets.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mornings before 11 am or late evenings after Broadway curtain when lines shrink.
✓ Insider Tip:
Set a spending limit before entering—sampling stations and custom mixes tempt little hands and big eyes.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Kids rave about the color wall and character statues; adults appreciate the air conditioning and easy stroller access.
4. Hershey's Chocolate World
The Times Square flagship brims with candy-themed photo ops, s’mores, milkshakes, and oversized treats kids can’t resist.
✓ Why Go:
Sweet rewards and interactive counters make it a fun, fast detour that pairs naturally with nearby attractions.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning on weekdays; evenings can be busy with pre- and post-show crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head upstairs for a quieter bite and great views of the square; share large desserts to keep sugar highs in check.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a delicious crowd-pleaser and an easy bribe for good behavior during a busy Midtown day.
5. Bryant Park
A leafy lawn, carousel, reading room, and seasonal programming (including the Winter Village rink) offer a calm counterpoint to Times Square.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an open-air pit stop where kids can run, snack, and reset—plus it’s adjacent to the library for easy two-for-one planning.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings spring–fall; winter for the holiday market and ice skating.
✓ Insider Tip:
Use the park’s famously clean restrooms and check the events calendar for free kids’ activities and games lending library.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the safe, well-run vibe and central kiosks; many call it their favorite Midtown oasis with kids.
6. New York Public Library (Stephen A. Schwarzman Building)
This Beaux-Arts icon houses the Children’s Center and beloved original Winnie-the-Pooh and friends, alongside grand halls perfect for quick, inspiring peeks.
✓ Why Go:
Free, educational, and beautiful—kids can discover storytime, exhibits, and a quiet moment steps from the buzz outside.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid-morning on weekdays when reading rooms and exhibits are calmer.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check schedule for Children’s Center programs; enter on 5th Avenue and pair with Bryant Park right behind the library.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the mix of culture and calm; the Pooh display is a frequent highlight for younger children.
7. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Open-air terraces at Rockefeller Center deliver sweeping views of Central Park and Midtown in a layout that’s easy to navigate with kids.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a dramatic, kid-friendly skyline moment without long elevator lines typical elsewhere—and an easy walk from Times Square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
About 90 minutes before sunset for golden-hour photos and nightfall lights; weekdays see lighter crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a light layer for wind on upper decks; arrive a bit early to account for security and elevator timing.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents say the views wow kids of all ages; many prefer its spacious platforms over other observatories.
8. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
A former aircraft carrier houses jets, the Space Shuttle Enterprise pavilion, and hands-on exhibits along the Hudson.
✓ Why Go:
It’s STEM gold for kids—touchable technology, big machines, and river breezes—within walking distance of Times Square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning openings, especially on weekdays and cooler months.
✓ Insider Tip:
Some areas have height/age restrictions; check before lining up for the submarine to avoid disappointment.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the variety and outdoor space; many say it’s a standout for school-age kids and budding engineers.
9. New Victory Theater
A historic 42nd Street theater dedicated to family audiences, offering inventive circus, puppetry, dance, and theater from around the world.
✓ Why Go:
Thoughtfully curated, age-appropriate shows introduce kids to the performing arts right in the Times Square theater district.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend matinées for younger kids; evening shows for tweens and teens.
✓ Insider Tip:
Arrive early for lobby activities and snag booster seats; check show age recommendations when booking.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the welcoming staff and interactive extras; many call it a must for culture-loving families.
10. SPYSCAPE
An immersive spy museum where kids test codebreaking, surveillance savvy, and agility in sleek, game-like galleries.
✓ Why Go:
Tweens and teens get hands-on challenges that make learning feel like play, a short walk north of Times Square.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday midday to avoid after-school and weekend rushes.
✓ Insider Tip:
Plan 75–90 minutes and know that some experiences suit ages 8+; compare scores at the end for friendly family bragging rights.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families describe it as engaging and memorable, especially for puzzle-lovers and action-oriented kids.
