Plan & Roam NYC Holiday Guide for Families 🎄

Explore New York City this holiday season with kids, without the stress — just magic, adventure, and memories.

There’s something truly magical about NYC at Christmas time. Twinkling lights, ice rinks under skyscrapers, holiday markets, and adventures around every corner. We built this guide for families—and especially for kids ages 5-13+ —so you can roam with confidence. The map (linked below) is your companion. It’s divided by day (and has extra layers) so you can follow it, skip things if you need to, or swap/add indoor options when the weather turns (or if you see something your family would enjoy!)

👉 Open the Interactive NYC Holiday Map

 Also find the map at the bottom of the page(Take me there)

🗺 How to Use This Map

• On the left panel of the map, you’ll see layers titled by day (e.g., “Midtown Day”, “Brooklyn Day”), plus extra layers like “Indoor Backups” and “Public Restrooms”.

• Click a layer to turn it on or off. When it’s on, pins for that day light up on the map.

• If you want to explore more options: toggle on the “Indoor Backups” or “Educational Stops” layers.

• For each day: We recommend following the stops in order, but feel free to swap stops or reverse (for example we suggest reversing one route to catch sunset).

• Whenever you see a “Public Transit” note: use it to skip long walks and keep kids happy.

• Have fun: Let this be your guide, not your chain. If your family wants to linger somewhere, skip a stop or break up a day into two!

• When you are in an area and looking for more things to do, click one of the extra layers to see what else is nearby.

• The rest of this guide walks you through each day.

💡 Tips for Planning + Using This Guide

• Read through each day and the additional stops before hand so you know what fits your family and what does not (so you can skip or add)

• Reserve your must-see stops early to secure your desired times while they are available.

• I did not include food stops in this guide as each families diet ranges and NYC has endless options, you won’t have trouble finding food on every corner and between!

• I have an estimated range of how long each stop would be, this ranges per family depending on what attractions you choose to do and where you choose to linger longer. All days are planned to be between 5-10 hours, this gives you wiggle room for exploring an area longer, taking longer meal breaks, etc while still being able to complete everything in one day (depending on your start time of course). Large time ranges are there to gauge whether you are enjoying the view from the outside/stopping for a photo-op or attending an attraction like an observation deck, ice skating, etc.)

• I have times included as a very LIGHT guide so you can visualize your day, not for you to stress about moving on to the next stop! Enjoy your time and keep an eye on when you have reserved times at attractions, but otherwise go with your families flow!

• Ice Skating rinks + Observation Decks: There are multiple of each listed in this guide, I recommend choosing one or two to actually skate/visit - I have done multiple of each and they are each special in their own way. I’d suggest looking up photos and checking availability to find which ones work best for you!

• TRANSPORTATION! While I love the subways, I know they are not everyones cup of tea. Most days require little transportation as I tried to keep the stops in the same area, you can find a taxi on almost every street, call a car service (I have not vetted any yet so I don’t have one to recommend), Uber/Lyft or subway your way to the next stop. The subway system is pretty seamless nowadays, you can use apple pay at the entrance and your maps will tell you which subway to hop on - just select “public transportation” on your map.

• Take a good look at the indoor stops towards the end of the guide, you may find some stops you know you’ll love and want to work them into your days!

• You can combine days with an indoor/educational stop to fill up the day if you are not planning on spending time at any “reservable” attractions, for example: Start the day at either The American Dream Mall or Statue of Liberty and finish off at Chelsea Day 1 or Brooklyn.

• Something to note is that NYC is a walking city - most of the magic comes from walking the streets and taking in the scenery, so take your time in-between stops.

• This guide is laid out for 4 days, but it can be spread out over more days by incorporating extra stops, or splitting some days by 2 if you know you’ll want to spend more time at certain spots.

🏙 Day 1: Chelsea, Flatiron + Union Square — The Chill Day

(approx. 5 hours — perfect for arrival, departure, or half days)

1. Chelsea Market – (30min-1.5hr) Start with coffee, pastries or tacos inside this indoor food hall. Great for a relaxed arrival.

2. Little Island – (30min-1hr) A sculptural park over the Hudson where kids can climb, explore, and take in skyline views.

3. The High Line – (20-40min) Walk this elevated park with gardens and industrial architecture; stop at the observation deck for sweeping views. (20 min scenic walk)There are a couple of entrances near little island and Chelsea market, find stairs and you’ll find your way. Stop and ask a shop if you need to!

4. Vessel, Hudson Yards + The Edge – (30min-2hr) Snap a quick photo at Hudson Yards’ honeycomb-structure, take a walk through Hudson yards for Holiday displays and shopping, hit electric lemon for a rooftop dining experience - or a quick drink at the bar. Head up to the Edge observation deck for amazing views, book early: RESERVE The edge.

   • Transit tip: From Hudson Yards take the M35 bus(fastest), 7 train, or walk to reach 34th St for the Empire State. (approx 20 min travel time)

5. Empire State Building – (20 min - 2.5hrs) Whether you go up or admire from below and snap a photo in the lobby, this iconic landmark adds wow to your first day. (Reserve in advance if you are planning to go up to the observation deck)

6. Eataly NYC Flatiron – (30min-2hr) Enjoy Italian fare, gelato, or hot chocolate in a cozy indoor setting. Rooftop restaurant and bar upstairs, reserve in advance or grab a bar table!

7. Flatiron Building – Pause for that triangular photo at 5th & 23rd St.

8. Union Square Park – (1hr) End your day at the lively holiday market with local crafts and snacks.

   • Transit tip: Union Square Station (4/5/6/L/N/Q/R/W) makes it easy to return to your hotel

     🌇 Reverse Option: Start at Union Square and end at Little Island for a golden-hour sunset over the Hudson.

Educational Stops Nearby:

• National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) – Hands-on puzzle fun in the Flatiron area (about 1.5 hrs).
  
  

  Indoor Options in the Area:

• ARTECHOUSE NYC – Digital art near Chelsea Market.

• Museum of Illusions – Greenwich Village, short ride away.

🌆 Day 2: Midtown Magic — Iconic NYC Holiday Highlights

(approx. 6–10 hours)

1. M&M’s World New York – (1-2hrs) Start your day off with a fun candy-filled stop and stock up on snacks for the day. Check out Times Square during the day and see the difference when you end the night here!

2. Radio City Music Hall – (30 min-2.5 hrs) Head over to famous Radio City and catch a show if you’ve booked one, if not - it’s still a sight to see. Make sure to grab a photo out front from across the street and check out the red ornaments! (Book a show in advance here: RESERVE, See the view from select seats: Seat View)

3. Rockefeller Center – (45min - 2.5 hrs) See the holiday tree, ice rink, and festive storefronts. (Reserve top of the rock observation deck here: RESERVE, Reserve Ice Skating at Rockefeller Center: RESERVE)

4. The Channel Gardens + 5th Ave Window Displays – (10min) Wander between Rockefeller & St. Patrick’s and take in the holiday decor.

5. St. Patrick’s Cathedral – (15 min) A breathtaking break inside one of NYC’s most beautiful churches.

6. Grand Central Terminal – (30 min-1hr) Walk down 5th ave or subway to grand central, explore the terminal, look for the whispering gallery, holiday train display, shops and more.

7. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – (1.5-2.5hrs) For panoramic views, enter via Grand Central; aim for 60 minutes before sunset for dramatic lighting, three levels of fun. (Reserve in advance here: RESERVE)

8. Bryant Park Winter Village – (30 min-1.5hrs) A festive winter village with Ice Skating, hot cocoa, and artisan stalls await. (Reserve Ice Skating here: RESERVE)

9. Times Square at Night – (30 min-1.5 hrs) End your day in the neon glow of Times Square, when the square comes to life — compare the difference from your daytime stop.

   Educational Stops Nearby:

• MoMA – Just a 5-min walk from Rockefeller, a fun art stop for creative kids (about 1-2 hrs).

  Indoor Options in the Area:

• SPYSCAPE Interactive Museum – One of our favorites: spy missions, laser tunnels & puzzles; 1.5-2 hrs, great for ages 7–13. (TICKETS)

• Madame Tussauds – Fun photo experience in Times Square.

🌳 Day 3: Central Park Adventure — Nature + Nostalgia

(approx. 4–7 hours)

1. Wollman Rink – (2hrs) Start the day with a skate beneath the city skyline. Reserve online for less wait: (RESERVE)

2. Central Park Carousel – Then ride the historic carousel near 65th St; perfect for younger kids. (TICKETS)

3. Heckscher Playground – Let little ones burn off energy on equipment while you relax nearby.

4. Bethesda Fountain + Terrace – (30-1+ hr) Scenic spot for snacks and photos; often musicians play here.

5. Optional Bike Ride or Horse Carriage Tour – Rent bikes at Columbus Circle (for a 1-hour loop), or take a carriage ride to make the day feel special.

6. American Museum of Natural History – (2-3+ hrs) Hop on the B or C train to 81 St. Explore dinosaurs, space, and ocean worlds .

7. Roosevelt Island Tramway – Next take the F-train to Roosevelt Island; enjoy the aerial ride and views (10 min ride each way).

8. Roosevelt Island/Southpoint Park – (45min-2hrs) End your day here overlooking the skyline — stay for sunset, or ride the tram back as evening falls.

   You can extend this day by exploring central park more, spending more time at the Museum, hanging out on Roosevelt Island longer!

   
   Educational Stops Nearby:

• American Museum of Natural History – Already included.

  
  Indoor Options in the Area:

• SPYSCAPE One of our favorites: spy missions, laser tunnels & puzzles; 1.5-2 hrs, great for ages 7–13. (TICKETS)

• Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – If you finish early and want a relaxed indoor arts stop.

🌉 Day 4: Brooklyn Day — Bridges, Views & Christmas Lights

(approx. 5–7 hours)

1. Brooklyn Bridge Pedestrian Walkway – (30–45 min) Start early to avoid crowds; walk from Manhattan into Brooklyn.

   • Transit: 4/5/6/R/W train → City Hall Station.

2. Harbor View Lawn (Brooklyn Bridge Park) – (30min-1.5hr) Chill and snack while taking in dramatic riverfront views, maybe there will be some snow on the ground for a snowball fight.

3. Roebling Rink at Brooklyn Bridge Park – (1.5-2hrs) Under the bridge, this skating rink is unbeatable; get tickets early online. (RESERVE)

4. Jane’s Carousel – (20 min) Vintage carousel with Manhattan skyline in glass pavilion; fun photo stop.

5. Time Out Market New York – Lunch time: lots of options under one roof; plenty of tables and river views. Even if you’re not ready to eat yet, head up to the rooftop for city views.

6. DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View + Pebble Beach – (45min-1.5hr) Iconic photo spot; then stroll to pebble beach and relax.

7. High St Station (Subway Transfer to Dyker Heights) – Take A or C train to 86 St Station for your next stop.

8. Dyker Heights Christmas Lights – (1-2 hrs)Evening light spectacle: houses decked out in millions of lights, music, and festive cheer; end your day here.

Public Transit: From DUMBO: A/C trains from High St to 86 St for Dyker Heights; use R train or rideshare back.

Educational Stops Nearby:

• Museum of Jewish Heritage – Located near the bridge start, excellent for older kids (1–1.5 hrs).

  
  Indoor Options in the Area:

• Area 53 Adventure Park – Ropes, zip-lines & laser tag (Brooklyn).

• Urban Air Trampoline Park – High-energy fun if you need a break from walking.

🗽 Day 5: Lower Manhattan + Statue of Liberty Day — Ferries, History & Neighborhood Adventures

(6–8 hours total)

1. Battery Park & SeaGlass Carousel – (10–15 min) Start your morning on the waterfront with open space, harbor views, and a whimsical glowing fish carousel the kids will love. A calm, easy warm-up before the ferry.

2. Statue of Liberty Ferry + Liberty Island – (1-2+hrs) Board at Castle Clinton for your ferry ride to Lady Liberty. Walk the island paths, visit the pedestal museum, and take in skyline views . (A couple of different options - book your tickets early to secure your desired time)
   Optional: Continue to Ellis Island for the immigration museum (add 60–90 min).

3. Bowling Green Park – Once back on land, walk a few minutes north to this historic pocket park. Great spot for a quick snack break and bathroom stop.

4. Charging Bull + Fearless Girl – (10–15 min) A short stroll up Broadway to two of Lower Manhattan’s most iconic statues. Fun spot for kids to pose and explore.

5. Wall Street & New York Stock Exchange – (10–15 min) Continue north for a quick look at the Financial District’s famous streets, columns, and the center of global finance.

6. Trinity Church – (15 min) Just a few minutes away. Step inside this quiet, historic church and see Alexander Hamilton’s gravesite.

7. 9/11 Memorial (Outdoor Pools or full museum) – (20min-2hrs) Walk toward the memorial plaza to pause, reflect, and take in the peaceful fountains set where the towers once stood. (Museum Tickets: TICKETS)

8. Chinatown – (45–60+ min) Explore Canal, Doyal and Mott Street’s lively storefronts, markets, and bakeries. Grab dumplings, noodles, or bubble tea for lunch.

9. Little Italy – (20min-2hrs) Walk a few blocks north into Little Italy for cannoli or gelato on Mulberry Street, enjoy a pasta dinner while you’re there. Ferrara Bakery is a favorite for families.

10. SoHo (Optional Add-On if It’s Still Early) - (45min-1.5hrs) If everyone still has the energy, or you finish your day early enough, walk a few minutes west into SoHo for a relaxed, stylish end to your day. I recommend this stop if you want to hit the Ice Cream Museum, Color Factory or if it’s before 7 when most stores start to close.

    Educational Stops Nearby:

• Statue of Liberty Museum – On Liberty Island; great interactive exhibits.

• Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration – Hands-on, storytelling-style history for older kids.

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum – Reflective, powerful; best for ages 10+. (1–1.5 hrs)

Indoor Options in the Area:

• Eataly Downtown – Warm, bustling food hall in the World Trade Center (great indoor meal).

• Museum of Ice Cream (SoHo) - Bright, colorful, sensory experience with slides, sprinkles, and (of course) ice cream. (1-2hrs)

• Color Factory NYC (SoHo) – A few stops north; immersive color-themed rooms perfect for kids. (1-2hrs)

🏛 Educational Stops — Learning That Feels Like Adventure

(Mix into your days as desired, Mini quizzes to go with each stop if you’re really into making it educational!)

1. American Museum of Natural History – Giant dinosaur skeletons, ocean exhibits, and space worlds (2 hrs+), *already planned into central park day*. AMNH Mini Quiz

2. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) – Creative, interactive, and kid-friendly; walk from Rockefeller (≈1–2 hrs). MoMA Mini Quiz

3. 9/11 Memorial & Museum – Reflective, powerful; best for ages 10+. (1–1.5 hrs) 9/11 M&M Quiz

4. Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration – Ferry ride, history, and story of arrival; half-day if combined with Statue of Liberty. Quiz

5. Statue of Liberty & Museum – Ferry, pedestal climb, museum; (3–4 hrs) SL&M Quiz

6. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum – Aircraft carrier, submarine, shuttle; very interactive, ages 6–13 (1.5–2 hrs). Intrepid Quiz

7. United Nations Headquarters – World issues in kid-friendly format; book ahead. UN Quiz

8. National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) – Hands-on math fun near Flatiron (1–1.5 hrs). MoMath Quiz

   
   Indoor Options to Pair With These:

• SPYSCAPE – if you haven’t yet.

  ARTECHOUSE – Digital, sensory experience for kids who love tech and color.

Indoor Backups

Even the most magical NYC trips get hit with cold, rain, or tired feet — and that’s exactly why this layer exists. These stops are easy to plug into any day of your trip. Some are pure fun, others sneak in a little learning, and all of them give families a cozy, exciting break from the outdoors.

🛍 American Dream Mall — East Rutherford, NJ (A must-see for restless kids!)

What to expect: A mega-mall turned entertainment world — think roller coasters, water park, mini-golf, and even an indoor ski slope, the possibilities are endless here. Great if you want a full-day indoor outing. I definitely recommend adding this to your trip if you have littles, you can replace half of a day with it or make it a whole day thing.
Time Needed: 3 – 6 hours (or all day if you hit the theme parks)
Best for: Ages 6 – 13

🕵️‍♂️ SPYSCAPE Interactive Museum — Midtown Manhattan (Personal Favorite)

What to expect: This was a personal favorite stop and one of the most unexpectedly fun experiences of the trip. SPYSCAPE is part museum, part escape room, and part interactive game zone. Upon entering, you’re “recruited” as a secret agent and guided through missions that test observation, agility, memory, and code-breaking skills.

With hands-on fun and mental challenges, it’s perfect for the whole family. Younger kids enjoy laser tunnels and motion games, while older kids and parents get hooked on puzzles, lie detection, and spy challenges.

Combining interactive exhibits, real spy stories, and sleek design, it balances entertainment and education—you’ll leave having laughed, learned, and maybe discovered your inner James Bond.
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2+ hours
Best for: Ages 8 – 13

🎭 Madame Tussauds New York — Times Square

What to expect: Life-like wax figures of celebs, superheroes, and movie icons. Fun for selfies, especially for older kids who recognize the faces.
Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
Best for: Ages 6 – 13

🤸‍♀️ Complete Playground (Indoor Playground) — Midtown West

What to expect: Giant climbing structures, trampolines, and obstacle courses for burning off extra energy. A great break for kids after museum days.
Time Needed: 1 – 2 hours
Best for: Ages 3 – 8

⛸ Chelsea Piers Sky Rink — Chelsea Piers

What to expect: Indoor skating overlooking the Hudson River. Skate rentals available and lessons for beginners. This is a great stop if your family was looking forward to ice skating but the weather isn’t matching up!
Time Needed: 1 – 2 hours
Best for: Ages 5 – 13

🎨 ARTECHOUSE NYC — Chelsea Market Area

What to expect: Digital, projection-based art that moves, reacts, and surrounds you. Feels futuristic and mesmerizing — a favorite for both parents and kids.
Time Needed: 45 – 90 minutes
Best for: Ages 6 – 13

🎨 ARTE Museum NYC — Chelsea Piers

What to expect:
A fully immersive digital art experience where giant projections, glowing light installations, and soundscapes transform each room into another world. Kids love the optical illusions, slow-motion “waterfalls,” and interactive spaces that feel alive. It’s visually stunning, calming, and exciting all at once — a great break from the cold and a perfect reset between busy city stops.

Time Needed: 45 – 90 minutes
Best for: Ages 6 – 13

🍦 Museum of Ice Cream — SoHo

What to expect: Bright, colorful, sensory experience with slides, sprinkles, and (of course) ice cream. Ideal for younger kids and those who love hands-on play.
Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
Best for: Ages 5 – 10

🌈 Color Factory NYC — SoHo

What to expect: Immersive color-themed rooms with interactive exhibits, confetti, and photo moments. Artistic, sensory, and visually stunning.
Time Needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
Best for: Ages 6 – 12

🧗 Area 53 Adventure Park — Williamsburg, Brooklyn

What to expect: Indoor ropes courses, zip lines, laser tag, and climbing challenges. Active, exciting, and great for slightly older kids.
Time Needed: 2 – 3 hours
Best for: Ages 8 – 13

🤾 Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park — Brooklyn

What to expect: Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses. Perfect if the kids need to move after several walking-heavy days.
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best for: Ages 6 – 13

🌀 Museum of Illusions New York — Greenwich Village

What to expect: Optical illusions, mirror mazes, and perspective tricks. Quick, entertaining stop that sparks curiosity and laughter.
Time Needed: 45 – 90 minutes
Best for: Ages 5 – 12

🔢 National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) — Flatiron District

What to expect: Hands-on exhibits showing math through games, motion, and puzzles. A hidden gem that makes learning genuinely fun.
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best for: Ages 7 – 13

🕯 9/11 Memorial & Museum — Financial District

What to expect: A moving, historical experience — best for older kids ready for a deeper look at history.
Time Needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best for: Ages 10 +

💡 Tips & Tricks for Traveling NYC with Kids in December

1. Book early & lock in must-dos.
Holiday attractions fill fast. Secure ice-skating sessions, observatory tickets, and popular indoor stops ahead of time.

2. Dress in layers & prepare for wind-chill.
December in NYC is brisk — average highs may be mild but wind and shadows chill quickly. Pack: warm coat, hat, gloves, scarf, waterproof outer layer, good walking shoes.

3. Choose walkable areas + subway hops.
Your itinerary blends short walks with subway rides so kids don’t get worn out. Teach them to hold hands in stations — busy crowds push through fast.
4. Plan for indoor breaks & rest stops.
If the weather turns, or if little ones need to decompress, use the “Indoor Backups” layer, museums or play zones are lifesavers.

5. Bring snacks & hydration.
Cold air = dry mouths. Travel snack bag, reusable water bottle, chapstick and lotion are a huge plus. Many holiday markets have food but also long lines.

6. Allow time to just pause & enjoy.
Not every moment needs to be filled. Use the parks or Little Island to let kids run or adults sit. Sometimes the magic is in slowing down.

7. Stay aware of holiday crowds & timing.
Christmas time gets extra busy and expensive. Booking everything ahead is key.
8. Stroller or no stroller?
For ages 5-13 you’ll likely be walking a lot but might still use a lightweight stroller for younger kids. Make sure it’s easy to fold and carry in subway stations and stops.
9. Emergency plan = indoor list.
When you see tired faces or bad weather, pull one indoor stop from that layer and reset. Keeps everyone happier.
10. Capture memories.
Bring gloves with touchscreen capability so you can photograph without freezing. Snap video clips and candid pics - capturing memories aren’t about the perfect photo, they are there to remind you of all the little things that fade with time. Side note: I offer documentary day shoots - I’m available for hire as your personal paparazzi! Sofiamurciaphotography@gmail.com