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A city the size of New York naturally comes with a sizeable amount of things to do. So how do you whittle them down to the very best so they'll fit in your family vacation? You ask your favourite family travel blogger! We've been to New York 5 times now with our kids and done all the research so you don't have to. Now you can relax knowing you're in for the vacation of your life.
1. The Ride
This entertaining tour will have the whole family clapping and laughing. We brought along 3 generations of my family on this tour and every one of them had side splitting fun. This multimillion-dollar bus features tiered sitting facing a large window so everyone has the best seat in the house. Two hosts take you on a tour around New York pointing out interesting and relevant sights, while interacting with street performers and making sure you are having The Ride of your life.
2. Get A Sugar High
In Times Square you will find the Hershey Store and M&M's World. Bright colours, characters, movie clips and lots and lots of chocolate. If that doesn't make you feel like a kid in a Candy Store walk a few blocks east to Dylan's Candybar. 3 floors of every kind of lolly will send your kids to candy nirvana.
3. See The Statue Of Liberty
Most kids will recognise Lady Liberty so taking a good look at her should be at the top of the list. You can do this two ways – for free on the Staten Island Ferry, which goes past her. Or you can pay for a tour to the island for an up-close view.
Tip: there are limited tickets available each day to climb the torch, so get there early.
Photo credit Getty/Prasit Photo
4. Capture The Best View From Top Of The Rock
Most people will scale the famous Empire State Building for views of New York, but if you are after the best views including views of the Empire State Building, head to Top Of The Rock. The panorama is just as glamorous, but the queues are shorter, which is great for impatient kids. Also if you visit during Christmas, kids will be delighted with the iconic Christmas Tree and ice-skating rink.
Photo credit Getty/Alexander Spatari
5. Play At Central Park
What kids don't love a park? Especially one this size. And it's perfect all year round. In summer there are boat races, kites to fly and ball sports to play. During winter you can ice-skate, kick around snow and eat toffee apples.
Photo credit Getty/Matteo Colombo
6. Eat Cheap Pizza
A New York vacation does not have to be expensive. Head to any number of "2 Bros" pizza stores for a $1 slice of cheese pizza. Who doesn't love pizza?
Photo credit Getty/Image Source
7. Natural History Museum
If your kids have seen the film "A Night At The Museum", or even if they haven't, this museum will have them amused for hours on end. It's so big that you won't even get it all done in one day. From gigantic dinosaur bones to life-size whales to Easter Island statues - plan your day before you arrive and try not to get lost!
Tip: Consider picking up a CityPass to save on entrance prices if you are visiting 3 or more of the attractions on the Pass.
Tip 2: Remember before flying to the US to get your ESTA (visa waiver) and travel insurance organised.
New York is a beautiful city that never sleeps. Sure it's full of bustle, but your family will never be bored...especially with a handy list like this.