October 10, 2023
Family Travel Destinations•New York City Travels•United States Travel
Things to Do in NYC with Teens: A Comprehensive Guide
New York City is a city that never sleeps and has something for everyone. From the bright lights of Times Square to the historical landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the city has no shortage of activities.
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.
Top Landmarks for Teens
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New York City 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
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The Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting NYC. This famous landmark is located on Liberty Island and can be accessed by ferry. Visitors can climb to the top of the statue and take in the breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Central Park
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Central Park is a massive green space in the heart of Manhattan. It offers a variety of activities for teens, including biking, hiking, and picnicking. The park also has several famous landmarks, such as the Bethesda Fountain and the Central Park Zoo.
Times Square
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Times Square is a bustling commercial and entertainment hub in the heart of Manhattan. It is famous for its bright lights, billboards, and bustling crowds. Teens will love exploring the area’s shops, restaurants, and theaters and taking pictures in the middle of all of the chaos.
Empire State Building
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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!
Museums and Galleries
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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 and most comprehensive art museums in the world. It features an extensive collection of art from around the globe, spanning over 5,000 years of human history.
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.
Teens can explore the museum’s many halls and exhibits, including the Rose Center for Earth and Space, which features a planetarium and interactive exhibits on the universe. It’s the coolest things for any space lovers you have.
Overall, New York City’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
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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
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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. This iconic street is home to some of the world’s most famous luxury brands, including Tiffany & Co., Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.
Even if you’re not in the market for high-end fashion, Fifth Avenue is worth a visit for the window shopping alone.
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
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Chelsea Market is a unique shopping destination in NYC. This indoor market is home to food vendors, artisanal 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
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When it comes to New York City, 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. Teens will 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. Teens will love the show’s themes of individuality and standing up for what they believe in.
There are so many other awesome family shows at any given time.
Sports Events
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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 for Teens
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These next few items are things my teenagers especially love to do when we visit New York City. While some are better known, all of them have made my teenagers more excited.
The Edge in Hudson Yards
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The Edge in Hudson Yards is a popular tourist attraction in New York City that offers stunning views of the city skyline. It features a glass floor and walls that provide visitors a unique and thrilling experience. In my opinion, these are the best views of NYC by far, and because it is new, everyone is talking about it, which also makes most teenagers more enthusiastic.
The High Line
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The High Line is a popular destination in New York City that my own kids think is super cool. It’s a walking park built on old train tracks very near Hudson Yards. The park features stunning views of the city skyline, art installations, games like chess and checkers, and lots of places to take selfies!!
Brooklyn Bridge
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The Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic landmark in New York City that offers stunning skyline views. It is an excellent destination for teenagers who want to explore the city and see something off the beaten path.
The bridge spans the East River, connecting Brooklyn and Manhattan. It is over 1 mile long and can be walked or biked. Walking across the bridge is popular for tourists and locals alike, but it can be crowded during peak hours.
For a more peaceful experience, teenagers can try walking the bridge early in the morning or late at night. The views are still incredible, and there are fewer people around.
The bridge also has a pedestrian walkway separate from the bike lane, making it safe for pedestrians to explore. Along the way are benches where teenagers can rest and take in the views.
Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry service between Manhattan and Staten Island. It is a free way to get stunning views of the New York City skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
The ferry runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, departing every 30 minutes during peak hours and every hour during off-peak hours. The ride itself takes approximately 25 minutes each way.
The ferry is a great option for teenagers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience in NYC. It’s a unique way to see the city from a different perspective without spending money. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity to take some Instagram-worthy photos.
While on the ferry, teenagers can grab a snack or drink from the onboard concession stand or simply enjoy the views from the outdoor decks.
Museum of Ice Cream
The Museum of Ice Cream is a recently popular museum in New York City. As the name suggests, this museum focuses on all things ice cream and is a perfect destination for teenagers looking for something fun and off the beaten path.
The Museum of Ice Cream is an interactive experience that allows visitors to explore different rooms and exhibits related to ice cream. Some of the highlights include a pool filled with sprinkles, a giant ice cream sundae, and a room with a giant cherry on top. Visitors can also sample ice cream and other sweet treats throughout the museum.
The Museum of Ice Cream is a popular destination, so it is recommended to purchase tickets in advance. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 9 pm, and tickets can be purchased online through their website.
Your teenagers will love all the incredible selfie moments and have some time to play like a kid.
Nintendo Store
The Nintendo Store is a must-visit destination for teenagers who love video games. Located in Rockefeller Center, the store is a gamer’s paradise, featuring all the latest Nintendo games, consoles, and accessories.
The store has two floors, with the first floor featuring a wide range of Nintendo merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, plush toys, and more. The real fun begins on the second floor, with a gaming lounge where visitors can play some of the latest Nintendo games and some retro Nintendo games on large screens.
The Nintendo Store also hosts special events and tournaments, so be sure to check their website for upcoming events. The Nintendo Store is a great place for teenagers to hang out, play games, and meet other gamers.
Harry Potter Exhibit
For teenagers who are fans of the Harry Potter series, visiting the Harry Potter Exhibit in New York City is a must-see. This immersive experience allows visitors to enter the magical world of Harry Potter and explore the iconic locations from the books and movies.
Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by a replica of the Hogwarts Express and can take photos before entering the main exhibit. They can explore the Gryffindor common room, Dumbledore’s office, other locations throughout Hogwarts. They can also see the costumes and props used in the movies, including Harry’s glasses and wand.
Overall, the Harry Potter Experience is a fun and engaging attraction for teenagers who are fans of the series. With its attention to detail and immersive atmosphere, it will surely transport visitors to the magical world of Harry Potter.
Food and Dining
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Street Food
New York is famous for its street food, and teens will 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.
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!
Not finding what you are looking for? Check out one of my other dozen posts about NYC; you will likely find it there!
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