Top 7 classic and unusual spots to visit with your kids in NYC this holiday season
The holiday season in New York City is nothing short of magical, with twinkling lights adorning the streets and a cheerful spirit in the air. Whether you're a local or a visitor, there are plenty of enchanting places to explore with your little ones. Here are our top 7 picks - some institutions, some off the beaten path - to make your family's holiday season in NYC unforgettable:
The Classics
1. Holiday Train Show in the Bronx
This beloved holiday show has been a NYC tradition at the New York Botanical Gardens for over 30 years. The trek to the Bronx is well worth the sight of miniature trains zipping through a massive, scenic display, and your kiddos will love walking through the miniature world that’s been built up in the Conservatory. Plenty of space to run around outside on the decorated grounds, too.
2. Radio City Christmas Spectacular
The Rockettes never fail to amaze and excited kids of all ages during this magical time of year. Revel in the holiday spirit with the world-renowned high kick hi-jinx and a visit from Santa. A quintessential NYC holiday experience that's sure to dazzle the whole family.
3. Meet Santa at Santaland
For kiddos looking to see Santa, any New Yorker will tell you he’s on 34th street, in Macy’s Santaland, where he’s been showing up for well over 150 years to hear what kids want for Christmas. Step into this magical little space in the busiest shopping neighborhood this side of the North Pole – and don’t forget to plan in some time to sit on a couch in the furniture department after to recharge (does anybody know if you can get hot cocoa delivered to the recliner section?).
Out of the Ordinary
4. Dyker Heights Holiday Lights
In a display of community that truly shows what New Yorkers are all about, this extensive neighborhood display of holiday lights delights kids and adults alike. There are tours, sure, but the best - and free - way to see the lights is simply to take the subway (or plan on street parking a few blocks away) out to this Brooklyn neighborhood and walk around in any direction you want.
5. Artechouse's Spectacular Factory: Beyond the Light
This multi-story, interactive art space in Chelsea Market is offering a magical show that ignites imagination and creativity and promises an immersive and enchanting experience for the whole family. (And while you’re there, you can pick up a sweet treat from Economy Candy, the Lower East Side institution that just moved into the Market this year!)
6. ArtRink at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum
ArtRink is an enormous outdoor ice skating rink combined with an art exhibition. Bringing art and playtime together is what the BCM does best, and it’s never been more true than on their icy rooftop (skates included in the price!).
7. Amaze Light Festival at Citi Field
If you’re looking to venture outside of Manhattan, hop on the 7 train out to Citi Field for the spectacular Amaze Lights festival. Over a million lights help create this universe of sparkle, music, food, dance, celebration, and wonder, with lots of activities for little kiddos to love.
Your Holiday Helpers
Are you in need of a temporary sitter to watch over the little ones while you explore these unique NYC treasures? Smart Sitting has got you covered. As a nanny agency with our roots in the most magical holiday city of them all (that’s New York City, if you weren’t sure), we and our nannies know how to bring the sparkle to kids of all ages – and peace of mind to parents of all persuasions.
Reach out to us for stellar temporary sitters who will ensure your children are in safe hands as you enjoy the holiday festivities, whether you are in town visiting or you live here year round. Our dedicated team will find just the right caregiver for your family, and New York will find just the right amount of holiday cheer to suit.