New York City is a city that never sleeps and that is something in common with many of your teenagers

Visiting NYC with teenagers can be tricky — they want independence, cool factor, and experiences that don’t feel “little kid.” After years of visiting NYC with my own teens, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in New York City with teenagers, from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path experiences teens genuinely love.

But what about teenagers? They so often feel dragged around with their parents and younger siblings. Here are some things that they will love! Plus, my teenagers have loved the cool factor of being in the city and making some decisions themselves!

We live very close to NYC, and I always try to plan a  day with each of my teens to go and do things that they find fun. Here are some of their favorites.

 

Best NYC Landmarks Teenagers Will Actually Enjoy

New York is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Most teenagers are familiar with these landmarks because of movies filmed in NYC. Here are a few that are sure to impress teens:

Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is a a popular stop for anyone visiting NYC. This famous landmark is located on Liberty Island and you need to travel by ferry from lower Manhattan. This will take up a good part of a day, but is something my teenagers have loved!

Central Park

Central Park is a massive green space in the middle of Manhattan. Spend and afternoon there with your teenager and do something fun like biking, picnicking, or visitingthe zoo. The park also has several famous landmarks, such as the Bethesda Fountain and the Central Park Zoo.

Times Square

Times Square is an assault on the senses but your kids will love it. If you go at night, their camera rolls will be overflowing with selfies of them in every part of Times Square.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most recognizable skyscrapers in the world. It offers stunning city views from its observation deck on the 86th floor. Teens can also visit the building’s museum to learn about its history and construction.

In conclusion, these landmarks are just a few of the many attractions NYC offers teens. Whether they are interested in history, culture, or entertainment in the city that doesn’t sleep!

Best Museums in NYC for Teenagers

New York City has an abundance of options that are perfect for art-loving teens. Here are three must-see options that are sure to impress:

Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as “The Met,” is one of the world’s largest art museums. You could spend weeks at the museum and never see all of the art.

Teenagers will love exploring Egyptian artifacts, European paintings, and the American decorative arts.  This is the best pick for teenagers who love art.

Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art, or “MoMA,” is a must-visit for any art-loving teen. It’s home to one of the world’s finest modern and contemporary art collections, including works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Andy Warhol. Teens can enjoy the museum’s film screenings, lectures, and workshops.

American Museum of Natural History

The American Museum of Natural History is a fascinating destination for teens interested in science and history. The museum exhibits everything from dinosaurs and ancient civilizations to space exploration and biodiversity.

Overall, New York’s museums and galleries offer many opportunities for teens to learn and explore. Whether they’re interested in art, science, or history,there is a museum for that!

Outdoor Activities in NYC that Teenagers Will Love

NYC has a surprising number of outdoor activities for kids and teenagers. Here are some of my kids’ favorite options:

Biking and Electric Scooters in Central Park

Central Park is a great place to bike, with over 6 miles of dedicated bike lanes and plenty of scenic views. Bike rentals are available near the park, Electric Scooter rentals are even more places, and there are also guided bike tours for those who want to learn more about the park’s history and landmarks. It’s a fun and active way to explore the city’s most famous park.

Bronx Zoo

The Bronx Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country and an excellent destination for animal lovers. With over 6,000 animals from more than 700 species, there’s something for everyone to see. The zoo also offers exhibits and activities like the butterfly garden and the Congo Gorilla Forest. It’s a great way to spend a day outdoors and learn about different animals.

Coney Island

Coney Island is a classic NYC destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities for teens. From amusement park rides to the beach and boardwalk, there’s plenty to do. The amusement park features classic rides like the Cyclone roller coaster and the Wonder Wheel. The beach and boardwalk offer a chance to relax and soak up some sun. It’s a fun and iconic way to experience NYC’s beach culture.

 

Shopping Spots in NYC your Teen Will Love

New York City is a shopper’s paradise, and there are plenty of options for teens seeking retail therapy. Here are some of the best shopping spots in the city.

Fifth Avenue

Fifth Avenue is a must-visit destination for any serious shopper in NYC. Even if you just want to window shop you will see the most famous luxury brands, including Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.

SoHo

SoHo is another popular shopping destination for teens in NYC. This trendy neighborhood is home to a super cool a mix of high-end boutiques and more affordable chain stores.

Some of the most popular stores in SoHo include Zara, Topshop, and H&M. SoHo is also known for its art galleries and trendy cafes, making it a great spot for an adventurous, fashion-forward teen.

Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is a unique shopping destination in NYC. This indoor market has food vendors, food shops, and specialty boutiques. You can find everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing to gourmet chocolates at Chelsea Market. The market is also an excellent spot for foodies, with vendors selling everything from lobster rolls to artisanal cheese.

This place is Instagram worthy in almost every spot and is sure to impress your “too cool” kids.

 

Broadway Shows That Your Teens Will Love

When it comes to NYC, Broadway shows are a must-see. There’s nothing quite like the experience of seeing a live performance in one of the world’s most famous theater districts. Here are a few shows that are perfect for teens.

The Lion King

The Lion King is a classic Broadway show entertaining audiences for over two decades. The show features stunning costumes, puppetry, and memorable songs that will have you tapping your feet and singing along. You will both love the colorful and imaginative world of the African savanna that is brought to life on stage.

Hamilton

Hamilton is a revolutionary Broadway show that has taken the world by storm. If you kids don’t want to go already, they will as soon as they hear it is a musical in rap!

The play tells the story of Alexander Hamilton, one of America’s founding fathers, through a unique blend of hip-hop, rap, and traditional musical theater. Teens will appreciate the show’s modern take on history and its catchy music.

Wicked

Wicked is a Broadway show that tells the story of the Witches of Oz before Dorothy arrives. The show features beautiful music, creative and magical visuals, and a thought-provoking tale about friendship and acceptance.  The show’s themes of individuality and standing up for what they believe in is a great thing to make your teenagers think about

There are so many other awesome family shows at any given time.

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Sports Events for Teens in NYC

New York City is home to some of the most iconic sports teams in the world. If you’re looking for a fun and exciting activity to do with your teen, attending a sports event is a great option. Here are two popular sports teams to check out:

Yankees Game

The New York Yankees are one of the most successful teams in Major League Baseball history, with 27 World Series championships. Watching a game at Yankee Stadium is an unforgettable experience for any sports fan. The stadium is in the Bronx and can hold up to 47,000 fans.

Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office, and prices vary depending on the game and seating location. It’s recommended to arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and grab snacks before the game starts.

Knicks Game

Basketball fans won’t want to miss the chance to see the New York Knicks play at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have a storied history, with two championships and several legendary players wearing the team’s jersey.

Madison Square Garden is located in Midtown Manhattan and can hold up to 20,000 fans. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office, with varying prices depending on the game and seating location. It’s recommended to arrive early to explore the arena and grab food before the game starts.

 

Off the Beaten Path in NYC that Teens Will Love

 

These next few items are things my teenagers especially love to do when we visit New York.  While some are better known, all of them have made my teenagers more excited.

 

The Edge in Hudson Yards

Food and Dining For Teens in NYC

Street Food

New York is famous for its street food, and you will both love exploring the variety of options available. Some popular street food vendors include:

• The Halal Guys: Known for their chicken and rice platters, this food cart has become a New York institution.
• Wafels & Dinges: This Belgian waffle truck offers a range of sweet and savory toppings.
• Calexico: This Mexican food truck serves delicious tacos, burritos, and nachos.

Exploring the city’s street food scene is an excellent way for teens to try new foods and experience the unique culture of New York.

Fine Dining

For a more upscale dining experience, there are plenty of options in New York. While many fine-dining restaurants can be expensive, some offer special deals for teens. Some popular options include:

• The Spotted Pig: This gastropub offers a range of dishes, from burgers to roasted bone marrow.
• Momofuku Noodle Bar: This restaurant serves delicious ramen and other Asian-inspired dishes.
• Carbone: This Italian-American restaurant is known for its classic dishes and retro decor.

Teens will appreciate the chance to dress up and enjoy a fancy meal, and these restaurants offer a unique dining experience they won’t forget.

How Many Days Do You Need in New York City With Teenagers?

How long you should spend in New York City with teenagers really depends on how much you want to see — and how much downtime your teens need. NYC is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. If this is your family’s first visit, you may also want to start with The Ultimate Guide to New York City for Beginners, which walks through the basics of planning a trip to the city.

2–3 days in NYC with teens
This is perfect for a first visit or a long weekend. Focus on the highlights that teens instantly recognize and feel excited about, like Times Square, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Plan one evening for a Broadway show, and if this is your family’s first time attending a show, this guide on what to wear to a Broadway show is helpful for teens who want to fit in without feeling overdressed. For nighttime fun, these family-friendly things to do at night in NYC are great options when younger kids are tired but teens still have energy.

4–5 days in NYC with teens
This is the sweet spot for most families visiting New York City with teenagers. You’ll have time for iconic landmarks plus experiences that feel more personal. Balance museums, shopping in SoHo, and outdoor activities with attractions teens love, like observation decks and food halls. If you’re planning where to base your trip, this guide on where to stay in NYC can help you choose a neighborhood that works well for families with older kids.

6–7 days in NYC with teens
If you have a full week, you can slow the pace and really let your teenagers explore. This longer stay allows time for multiple museums, a sports game, walking neighborhoods like Brooklyn or Hudson Yards, and letting teens make some of the daily decisions.

No matter how long your trip is, the key to visiting New York with teenagers is balance. Plan one or two must-do activities each day, then leave room for wandering, food stops, and letting your teens help choose what’s next. Giving them some ownership over the itinerary often leads to the best memories of your NYC trip.

NYC with Teens

The best way to get your teenagers excited about their visit to New York City is to give them options of what there is to do and let them help you plan it. You may be surprised by what they want to do. This list is just a jumping off point!