Visiting New York City with kids? It can definitely be a bit of a challenge—those little ones have so much energy! Finding fun, family-friendly activities to keep them entertained might seem tricky, but luckily, the Upper West Side is practically made for families. With its mix of culture, charm, and kid-friendly spots, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. So, get ready to explore—NYC with kids just got a whole lot easier.

1. American Museum of Natural History

Watch your child’s imagination come to life while visiting the American Museum of Natural History. The new Apex Stegosaurus fossil is sure to impress. It’s a 150-million-year-old fossil that’s 11.5 feet tall and 27 feet long. Explore the Secret World of Elephants. Dive headfirst into the immersive experience of Invisible Worlds. The Extinct and Endangered: Insects in Peril exhibit is educational and entertaining. You and your children can get an up-close view of everything from bees to butterflies from the large-scale photographs. Thankfully, you won’t come into contact with any real creepy crawlies. The museum is a 5-minute walk from the Lucerne Hotel, so you can spend the day or easily make multiple trips. 

2. Children's Museum Of Manhattan

Stepping into the Children's Museum of Manhattan is like walking straight into a rainbow—it’s bright, bold, and bursting with fun! This interactive museum is packed with larger-than-life exhibits in eye-popping colors, making it an absolute wonderland for kids. While they’re busy having a blast, parents can feel great knowing the museum sneaks in plenty of learning along the way.

Little explorers can go on an adventure with Dora and Diego or dive into the fascinating world of NYC’s water system at the Dynamic H2O exhibit. And the best part? It’s just a quick 5-minute walk from The Lucerne Hotel—perfect for a fun (and easy) family outing! 

3. Kidville

Get ready for endless fun at Kidville! This place has everything from award-winning classes to an epic indoor play space. It’s the perfect spot to give your child a home base while you explore New York City, especially for more extended stays. With preschool alternatives, camps, and classes in gym, music, art, dance, and STEM, there’s something to spark every child's imagination. Sign your little ones up for the classes they’ll love the most, and watch them have a blast! There’s no better place for a kid to be a kid than at Kidville, just a 10-minute walk from the Lucerne Hotel. 

4. Playgrounds 

The Upper West Side is family-friendly, with plenty of playgrounds within walking distance of the Lucerne Hotel. The River Run Playground is a popular spot for families thanks to the wet and wild play area. There is also a giant sand pit for toddlers to play in. The Matthew P. Sapolin Playground is also popular because of its life-size musical instruments, bridges, slides, and swings. There are also basketball courts for older children. Tecumseh Playground is just two blocks from the Lucerne, making it the perfect spot for a fun, quick outing! Its unique Wild West theme features buffalo sculptures and a wagon climber. You can visit the official website of the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation for an interactive map of the city’s playgrounds. 

5. Lincoln Center

You probably already know that the Lincoln Center is world-famous for its performances. But did you know it also has a robust kids and family program? Open a whole new world of music and performance art to your children. You may have the next prima ballerina in your family. Perhaps they would love to learn how to play a musical instrument. There are programs for children of all ages, making it the perfect solution for families. Just a 20-minute walk away, the Lucerne Hotel is ideal for relaxing before or after a class.

6. Vital Theatre Company

Ignite your child’s love of the theater and performing arts by attending a performance at the Vital Theatre Company. This small community of artists thrives on igniting the theatrical spark in today’s youth. Children will love the whimsical approach to theater. After all, performance art doesn’t always have to be serious. Currently, the theater runs productions of Pinkalicious and the Wizard of Oz. The theater is only a 5-minute walk from the Lucerne Hotel, making it the perfect nearby activity for young travelers. 

Plan Family-Friendly Fun on the Upper West Side 

The Upper West Side may have a bohemian and collegiate vibe, but it is also incredibly family-friendly. When visiting the UWS, parents can feel confident that their little ones will have plenty to see and do. Spend time outside at one of the many playgrounds. Get in touch with their artistic side at the Lincoln Center or Vital Theatre Company. Ignite a love of learning at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan or the American Museum of Natural History. 

Book your stay at the Lucerne Hotel, which is close enough to visit all these family-friendly activities on the Upper West Side.