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Activities with a Family in New York

There are endless activities to do with a family in New York. From specialized children's museums, to high speed boat rides, New York has it all. Be prepared to spend a lot of money on activities, but you can save some money by picnicking or eating hotdogs.

The Beast

The Beast is a high speed boat that will introduce you to New York sightseeing. Run by the world famous Circle Line cruises, this tour is unlike most. You will be flying around New York's harbors. Be prepared for a little sea splash. It's also important to note that The Beast does not run in the winter, or when it is raining. If you purchase a ticket you may use it at any time, so the weather isn't as important. Enjoy the water and the piers when you zip around, as well as the many sights you will fly by. This ride is more of a thrill than a true sightseeing experience as the ride only lasts thirty minutes.

Brooklyn Children's Museum

A great neighborhood museum, the Brooklyn Children's Museum has a large showcase of artifacts that are sure to amaze your children. This museum is focused on it's accessibility, it has one of the lowest cost tickets around, as well as many free days. It is also a huge proponent of running sustainably green museum. But your kids are just going to enjoy the many interactive and hands on experiences that they can have at the Brooklyn Children's Museum. When visiting the Brooklyn Children's Museum be sure to check out the nearby parks and restaurants to really get a feel for Brooklyn.

The Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is well known, and for good reason. This zoo is set in a urban setting, but once you are in you will forget that you are in the middle of New York City. Getting to the zoo is easy by Subway, but from many parts of Manhattan, taking the bus may be easiest. The Bronx Zoo is open year round, but is busiest in the summertime and during school breaks. Many areas of the zoo, such as the children's zoo, and butterfly garden, require additional fees so you may want to consider the more expensive all inclusive ticket. This will allow you to spend the entire day with unlimited access to the zoo's animals such as giraffes, lions, bears, elephants, and so much more. A great way to save some money is to bring your own lunch and picnic in designated areas.

Coney Island and New York Aquarium

Coney Island and the New York Aquarium provide a two for one packed day of fun and sun. Coney Island, which is located beachside in Brooklyn, has a vibrant boardwalk. Here you can find a wide variety of games and amusements. The most famous ride in Coney Island is the Cyclone. The Cyclone was built in 1927 and is located in Luna Park. You can buy tickets for multiple rides or just take one go around on the famous roller coaster. Nearby is the New York Aquarium. The aquarium is open year round, but some of the exhibits may be closed in the winter months. Watch as they feed penguins, and even sharks. The touch tank is bound to provide a memorable experience as you get to touch sea creatures. After working up an appetite on the boardwalk or in the aquarium head over to Nathan's Famous. This is the original hotdog stand for Nathan's Famous which have gone on to become a household name.

The Liberty Science Center

The Liberty Science Center may technically be in New Jersey, but it is a great thing to do when visiting New York. Just across the Hudson River from Manhattan, taking a ferry or water taxi is the easiest way to get to the Liberty Science Center. This museum has a special knack for showing kids how science works while engaging them and having a good time. Some exhibits at the museum, like the Touch Tunnel can get fairly crowded on weekends so be prepared to wait in line. In addition to the tons of interactive activities, the Liberty Science Center features amazing 3D and IMax movies. If the weather is nice take the time to enjoy the stunning New York City views from Liberty State Park.

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Activities with a Family in New York