Even though it’s not the go-to vacation spot for most people, no trip to the United States is complete without checking out the Big Apple. Everyone in the family, no matter their age, will be awed by the huge, bustling city and all it has to offer in the way of tall buildings and interesting attractions. You can’t help but be impressed by this vibrant metropolis. While some people despise it, others are captivated by it and keep coming back for more.
Length of Stay
A visit to New York with the family should last no longer than five days. There is no way to see everything the city has to offer in a day, but you can see the most popular sights, including family-friendly ones.
Taxis are the most convenient (and not always the most expensive) mode of transportation for families with young children, especially for short trips around town. When compared to taking the subway, which requires you to go underground, use a map and change trains, taking a cab in the city or limo service NYC are more cost-effective, and you get to see the city as you ride. Taking the tube once is a must just for the experience, but try to avoid doing so during rush hour: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. There are a lot of taxis in the city (12,000!) but remember that they are all busy at peak times. Taxis that have a vacant indicator light up front are available for use. A 15-20% gratuity should be included in the total cost of the taxi ride. Don’t get in any other taxi except a yellow one!
Transportation
Only in New York would I advise against renting a car with a family. Traffic is heavy at all times of day and night, making driving challenging and intimidating even for locals; imagine how daunting it must be for visitors who are unfamiliar with the area. Even worse, finding a parking spot in the city is next to impossible. Most of Manhattan’s sights are located in a compact section of the island, making it easy to navigate on foot or by using the underground, bus, or taxi.
Taxis are the most convenient (and not always the most expensive) mode of transportation for families with young children, especially for short trips around town. When compared to taking the subway, which requires you to go underground, use a map and change trains, taking a cab in the city is more cost-effective, and you get to see the city as you ride. Taking the tube once is a must just for the experience, but try to avoid doing so during rush hour: 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. There are a lot of taxis in the city (12,000!) but remember that they are all busy at peak times. Taxis that have a vacant indicator light up front are available for use. A 15-20% gratuity should be included in the total cost of the taxi ride. Don’t get in any other taxi except a yellow one!
Cruise on a Boat
Taking a boat tour of the harbour is a fun way to see the sights of the city. Taking the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan to Staten Island is the most affordable option. The ferry ride offers stunning views of Manhattan’s skyline, Ellis Island, and the Statue of Liberty. What’s the cost, if any? Despite appearances, it’s totally free!
The Tour, on Foot
Walking tours are a popular and low-cost option for getting to know a city. The sheer size of the city can only be appreciated in this way. Discover the city at your own pace as you stroll
between skyscrapers, stop in museums, and browse shops. You can take a cab back to your hotel if you get tired of walking. Keep an eye on your kids and never let them out of your sight. A child could easily get lost in the city’s massive pedestrian traffic.