Things to Do in NYC with a 12-Year-Old
New York City is a vibrant and exciting place to visit, and there are plenty of things to do that are perfect for families with children of all ages. If you’re looking for some ideas of what to do in NYC with a 12-year-old, here are a few suggestions:
One of the best things about NYC is that there are so many free or low-cost activities to enjoy. For example, you can take a walk through Central Park, visit the Museum of Natural History, or explore Chinatown. There are also plenty of free concerts and events happening throughout the city, so be sure to check the local listings.
Explore the Natural History Museum
The American Museum of Natural History is a must-see for any visitor to NYC, and it’s especially great for kids. The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including dinosaurs, animals, and insects. There’s also a planetarium and a 3D theater. You could easily spend a whole day exploring the museum, so be sure to plan accordingly.
If you’re visiting the museum with a 12-year-old, be sure to check out the following exhibits:
- The Dinosaur Halls: These halls are home to some of the most famous dinosaur fossils in the world, including the Tyrannosaurus rex and the Triceratops.
- The Hall of Biodiversity: This hall explores the diversity of life on Earth, from the smallest bacteria to the largest whales.
- The Hall of Human Origins: This hall tells the story of human evolution, from our earliest ancestors to the present day.
The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and activities for children. Be sure to check the museum’s website for more information.
Visit Central Park
Central Park is a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The park has something for everyone, including playgrounds, walking trails, and bike paths. There are also several lakes and ponds where you can go boating or fishing.
If you’re visiting Central Park with a 12-year-old, be sure to check out the following activities:
- The Central Park Zoo: This zoo is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, lions, and tigers.
- The Conservatory Garden: This garden is home to a variety of flowers and plants from around the world.
- The Belvedere Castle: This castle offers stunning views of the park and the city skyline.
You could easily spend a whole day exploring Central Park, so be sure to pack a picnic lunch and some comfortable shoes.
Explore Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood in Lower Manhattan. The neighborhood is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and temples. There are also several museums and cultural centers where you can learn more about Chinese history and culture.
If you’re visiting Chinatown with a 12-year-old, be sure to check out the following activities:
- The Museum of Chinese in America: This museum tells the story of Chinese immigrants in the United States.
- The Mahayana Temple: This temple is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in the United States.
- The Chinese Scholar’s Garden: This garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of Chinatown.
Chinatown is a great place to sample some delicious Chinese food. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy.
See a Broadway Show
Seeing a Broadway show is a must-do experience for any visitor to NYC. There are a variety of shows to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that everyone will enjoy. Some of the most popular shows for families include The Lion King, Aladdin, and Wicked.
Tickets to Broadway shows can be expensive, so be sure to book in advance. You can also try to get discounted tickets through a ticket broker or by entering a lottery. Standing room tickets are also available for most shows, but they are only available on the day of the performance.
Tips for Visiting NYC with a 12-Year-Old
Here are a few tips for visiting NYC with a 12-year-old:
- Plan your itinerary in advance. This will help you make the most of your time in the city.
- Purchase a CityPASS. This pass gives you admission to six of NYC’s most popular attractions, including the Empire State Building and the American Museum of Natural History.
- Take advantage of free activities. There are a lot of free things to do in NYC, so be sure to take advantage of them.
- Pack comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Be prepared for crowds. NYC is a crowded city, so be prepared for crowds, especially during the summer months.
These are just a few of the many things to do in NYC with a 12-year-old. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable vacation.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about visiting NYC with a 12-year-old:
- What are the best things to do in NYC with a 12-year-old?
- How much does it cost to visit NYC with a 12-year-old?
- What are some tips for visiting NYC with a 12-year-old?
- Plan your itinerary in advance.
- Purchase a CityPASS.
- Take advantage of free activities.
- Pack comfortable shoes.
- Be prepared for crowds.
There are a lot of great things to do in NYC with a 12-year-old, including visiting the American Museum of Natural History, exploring Central Park, and seeing a Broadway show. You can also visit Chinatown, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building.
The cost of visiting NYC with a 12-year-old will vary depending on your travel style and the activities you choose. However, you can expect to spend around $100 per day on average. This includes the cost of food, transportation, and activities.
Here are a few tips for visiting NYC with a 12-year-old:
I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
Are you interested in learning more about NYC? If so, be sure to check out my other articles on the city.