Even if walking through the crowds in Times Square sounds like a lot, it’s hard to imagine a trip to New York City without visiting this famous area. I’ve put together some of my favorite spots to explore with kids near Times Square. These “worth it” places make the busy streets feel much more manageable, and sometimes, it’s fun to play tourist in your own city and remember why it’s a dream destination for so many.
Fun Things for Kids Near Times Square
When you’re looking for things to do with children around Times Square, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the typical tourist spots. I’m focusing on places that feel a bit more special and unique to New York City, aiming for experiences that families might not find on their own.
Unique Playgrounds and Parks
Playground by Tom Otterness
This isn’t your average playground. It’s designed by artist Tom Otterness, and the main jungle gym is a giant bronze creature that kids can climb on, slide down, and explore. It’s a really unique piece of public art that also functions as a play space. I think kids find the big, friendly sculptures incredibly engaging.
Good to Know: This park is tucked away between the Silver Towers skyscrapers, so it can be a little tricky to find.
Besides the main sculpture, there are benches for grown-ups, a small patch of grass, and even a separate area for toddlers to play. It’s also conveniently located near attractions along the Hudson River, like the Intrepid Museum, making it a great stop to let kids burn off some energy before or after visiting other sights.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a true oasis right in the middle of Midtown. It’s amazing how much this green space offers, and many of its activities are completely free. Throughout the year, you can find something to do here, from enjoying the outdoor lending library and game cart to playing ping pong.
In the summer, it hosts free midday musical performances and outdoor movie nights after dark. When winter arrives, it transforms into the city’s only free ice skating rink. It’s an all-ages pleaser that I always include when planning family outings.
💡 Quick Tips
- Bring a few dollars for the lovely carousel if you have very young children.
- Check the park’s schedule for free events like movie nights or performances.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawn during warmer months.
Museums and Libraries for Curious Minds
Stephen A. Schwarzman NYPL Main Branch
Just a couple of blocks from Times Square, you’ll find the main branch of the New York Public Library. This building itself is a beautiful landmark, designed in the Beaux-Arts style. Inside, it holds fascinating exhibits, like the Polonsky Exhibition, which showcases historical artifacts from the library’s collection. You might even see Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration of Independence or the Winnie-the-Pooh dolls.
I’d recommend this spot for older kids, like tweens and teens, who appreciate history and architecture. While little ones might get restless inside, they can still meet the famous Library Lions, Patience and Fortitude, on the front steps. Mayor LaGuardia named them during the Great Depression to honor the city’s resilience.
Good to Know: Don’t miss the stunning Rose Reading Room on the third floor; it’s almost as big as a football field!
Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library
Across Fifth Avenue from the Schwarzman building is another branch of the New York Public Library, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library. While the Schwarzman building is grand, this one is a workhorse, housing more than 400,000 books. It’s a comfortable place to go if the weather isn’t cooperating or if you need a quiet break.
The children’s section on the garden level is especially welcoming for younger kids. You can attend a story time or find kid-sized furniture for your own imaginative play. It’s always a good idea to check the library’s event calendar for specific programs.
To catch a unique view, head up to the eighth-floor open-air reading room. It offers a free bird’s-eye look at Fifth Avenue, which can be quite interesting. It’s a nice spot for all ages to relax and take in some amazing city sights.
New and Exciting Attractions
One Times Square
One Times Square is probably the most famous address in the city, known for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. It’s recently undergone a big renovation to become a destination for the other 364 days of the year. You can visit its Skywalk for views or explore iCandy NYC.
iCandy NYC is a multi-level candy store that turns well-known New York landmarks into candy dispensers. It’s a fun concept, and the experience of filling a bucket with sweets can be quite memorable, almost like a souvenir in itself. I do think if you are looking for a high-flying observation deck experience, this might not be the best choice.
💡 Quick Tips
- The ticket for iCandy often includes a bucket to fill with candy.
- Consider this more of an experience and sweet treat than a traditional observation deck.
- You can buy tickets for the iCandy experience and the Skywalk.
Tomorrow (tm:rw)
Tomorrow, also known as tm:rw, is a large, modern retail space in Times Square, covering 20,000 square feet. It offers a lot more than just shopping. You can play with high-tech gadgets, try out immersive experiences like race car simulators and VR machines, or even talk to holograms. They also have a robotic cafe where you can get coffee and a really interesting gelato machine that works like a Keurig for desserts.
I think this spot is particularly fascinating for teens and anyone who loves technology. It’s definitely an experience unlike any other. With younger children, though, it might be a bit overwhelming, so this is probably best saved for an outing with older kids.
Details about pricing can be a bit tricky because the experiences add up. It might be helpful to set a budget or clear ground rules beforehand to manage expectations and costs for everyone.
Great Big Game Show and The Escape Game
These two attractions opened with the goal of bringing fun, game-style entertainment to Times Square for families. You can choose to participate in a game show competition or try your hand at a tech-enhanced escape room.
The Great Big Game Show is recommended for ages 6 and up, while The Escape Game is suggested for those 13 and older. I find these to be better suited for older tweens and teens who enjoy challenges and interactive fun. It’s a great way to engage them in something active and exciting.
It’s worth noting that games are designed for larger groups, often up to 14 players. If your family isn’t that big, you’ll likely be paired with other people, which can be a fun way to meet new friends and add an unexpected dynamic to the game.
More Fun Attractions for Families
Museum of Broadway
This multi-floor museum is dedicated to the history and magic of Broadway. It traces the evolution of theater from its early days in Lower Manhattan to the huge blockbusters we see today, like Hamilton and Wicked. It’s a fantastic place for anyone who loves the theater.
For true theater enthusiasts, the history and stories housed within this museum are incredibly compelling. I think it’s a wonderful way to connect with the art form.
Good to Know: Tickets are timed entry, so it’s best to purchase them in advance. There’s also a gift shop that you can browse even if you don’t have a ticket.
Midtown Comics
This branch of Midtown Comics is located at the top of a narrow set of stairs, so keep an eye out for it. It’s a fantastic comic book store with a great selection of titles that are perfect for young readers. You can find popular series like The Incredibles and Archie, as well as those aimed at younger audiences like Tiny Titans.
I was a bit hesitant to bring my preschooler at first, but the staff were incredibly welcoming and helpful. They genuinely enjoy engaging with visitors of all ages. It’s a place where kids can explore their interests in a friendly environment.
💡 Quick Tips
- Ask about “back issue blowouts” for older comics at a lower price.
- Many comics are now collectibles, so consider that when letting younger children handle them.
- The store is a great place to find unique gifts for comic fans.
Lucky Strike Times Square
If you’re looking for a fun activity for all ages, this bowling alley in Times Square offers a bit of a swanky experience with 50 lanes. It also has an on-site arcade, so there are plenty of entertainment options packed into one place.
Like many things in this neighborhood, bowling can be a bit pricier than you might expect. However, it’s a universally enjoyed activity and a great option for a rainy day or when you need a break from walking around.
It’s a good idea to reserve your lane online in advance, as they often have specials. Keep in mind that on weekend evenings, the venue is restricted to guests 21 and older.
Broadway Up Close Tour
This tour offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Broadway, filled with stories from its past. You get to explore usually off-limits areas of historic theaters, which is quite exciting. I find these kinds of tours rich in history and anecdotes.
However, for very young children, these tours might be a bit long, and they could lose interest quickly. So, this is likely best for families with older children and teens who can appreciate the details and the history.
Rise NY
Rise NY offers a unique way to experience the history of New York City. It guides visitors through a series of galleries that cover a micro-history of the city before leading them into an immersive theater. In the theater, you get the sensation of flying over the city, which is a memorable experience.
This attraction strikes a nice balance between learning something new and having interactive fun. It’s a engaging way to see the city from a different perspective.
Good to Know: The ride portion is not suitable for very young children, pregnant individuals, or those with sensory sensitivities. If many in your party fall into these categories, you might want to consider other museum experiences.
Intrepid Museum
The Intrepid Museum is dedicated to military history, and its location is quite remarkable: it’s housed on an aircraft carrier docked in the Hudson River. Inside and around the carrier, you’ll find extensive displays and interactive exhibits, a fleet of decommissioned aircraft, and even the Space Shuttle Enterprise.
This museum is one of my favorites for children in NYC. It’s not just about military history; it’s also about innovation and exploration. Kids can explore large exhibits and even the flight deck, which is always a hit.
💡 Quick Tips
- Check for special programming, like Kids Week or Operation Slumber, which offer unique overnight experiences.
- Allow plenty of time, as there’s a lot to see and explore on the ship and in the surrounding exhibits.
- The weather can be a factor on the flight deck, so dress accordingly.
Broadway Comedy Club
While many comedy clubs in Times Square cater to adult audiences with mature humor, this one is an exception. They offer a couple of kid-friendly shows each week, making it a safe and fun option for families. You can choose between the Broadway Magic Hour, which is filled with magic and illusions, or Improv 4 Kids, featuring comedy performed by children for children.
Both of these shows are generally well-received by kids, and the experience of being in a comedy club setting can be quite exciting for them. It’s a different kind of entertainment that’s sure to get some laughs.
I’ve found that using discount codes when booking in advance can make tickets even more affordable, which is always a plus for family outings.
Broadway Show
No list about Times Square would be complete without mentioning a Broadway show. The magic of seeing a live performance in New York City truly needs no introduction. It’s an iconic experience that creates lasting memories.
When choosing a show, it’s really important to pay attention to the age recommendations for each performance. It helps ensure that the show will be appropriate and enjoyable for your children. Before you go, have a chat with your kids about theater etiquette to make the experience smoother for everyone.
To potentially save money on tickets, you can try the TKTS booth in Times Square. However, sometimes going directly to the box office for same-day rush tickets can also offer significant savings if you’re flexible.
Summit One Vanderbilt
For what I consider the best observation deck experience in all of NYC, I highly recommend Summit One Vanderbilt. I love how the mirrored floors and the building’s design play with light, creating a visually stunning environment. The “ballroom” area, a unique mirrored space, is also a big hit with kids.
If you don’t mind heights, this is an absolute must-do. I would suggest booking tickets for about an hour before sunset. This way, you can experience the city views as the sun goes down and stay to see it transform into its evening glow. For locals, there are usually discount tickets available, which is a nice perk.
Good to Know: Ticket prices tend to increase closer to sunset.
The Drama Bookshop
This bookstore is special because Lin-Manuel Miranda is famously one of its part owners. It’s a fun place to explore, with suspended pages that create an interesting visual effect. They have a vast collection of plays, stocking over 8,000 titles in their stacks.
It’s a great spot to browse for a while or just relax in the on-site cafe, people-watching. If you’re a fan of Miranda’s work, you might enjoy knowing that In The Heights was partly developed in this very shop.
New Victory Theater
The New Victory Theater is an off-Broadway venue that offers a wonderful introduction to live theater for younger audiences. They have a rotating schedule of kid-friendly shows, and many performances are accompanied by pre-show workshops and hands-on activities. Compared to their Broadway neighbors, the ticket prices here are surprisingly affordable.
I truly believe there’s no better place to introduce little ones to the magic of live theater. It’s designed specifically for them, making it an accessible and delightful experience.
💡 Quick Tips
- Arrive a bit early to enjoy the “lobby activations,” which are pre-show activities.
- Check their website for current show schedules and age recommendations.
- Consider this for a more intimate and engaging theater experience than larger Broadway productions.
Family-Friendly Dining Near Times Square
Junior’s Restaurant
Junior’s is a well-known establishment in Times Square, famous for its legendary cheesecake. But it’s not just about dessert. They serve generous portions of classic American comfort food, which is perfect for fueling up before or after exploring the area.
It might be a bit of a splurge, but I think it’s worth it for a classic New York dining experience that still feels cool and authentic. My daughter, Emma, really enjoyed her meal there.
Good to Know: If you don’t have time for a full sit-down meal, you can grab a slice of their famous cheesecake from the bakery counter.
Schmackary’s
Known as the official cookie of Broadway, Schmackary’s bakes delicious cookies every day. Their flavors change every couple of weeks, but their classic chocolate chip cookie with a hint of salt is a must-try. It’s just perfection!
My daughter is a regular here, stopping by on her way to theater class every Friday afternoon. That’s the best endorsement I can give!
For a unique treat on a warm day, try their soft-serve and cookie mash-up. It’s like a custom Blizzard made with freshly baked cookies.
Lovely’s Old Fashioned
This is an old-school smashburger spot that focuses on making good burgers without any fuss. The prices are surprisingly reasonable, especially for the neighborhood, which makes it a great find for a quick and tasty meal.
Comforting classics are served up with speed, making it ideal when you’re on the go or need a straightforward meal. Don’t forget to try their house-made Charlotte Sauce.
John’s of Times Square
Located in what was once an abandoned Gospel Tabernacle Church, John’s of Times Square offers more than just pizza. The historic building itself provides a unique atmosphere, with plenty of interesting architectural details to enjoy while you wait for your order. Their pizzas are fired in on-site brick ovens, delivering that classic New York slice.
The service is prompt, and it’s a great place to go with a crowd. They do accept reservations for very large groups, but even without one, there’s usually plenty of seating, and they tend to turn tables quickly. It’s worth the potential wait for a fantastic pizza.
Amy’s Bread
For an early morning caffeine fix and some delicious pastries, Amy’s Bread is a local bakery and coffee shop worth visiting. The pastries are tasty, the prices are reasonable, and there’s ample seating toward the back, making it a comfortable spot to relax for a bit.
I often suggest skipping the big chain coffee shops in favor of local gems like this one. My personal favorite is their sourdough chocolate-chip breadstick, a unique treat.
Best Rainy Day Options
Many of the indoor attractions already mentioned are perfect for a rainy day. Some of the top choices for indoor fun near Times Square include the Museum of Broadway, Rise NY, both branches of the New York Public Library, and the Lucky Strike bowling alley. These provide entertainment and activities that aren’t dependent on the weather, ensuring a fun experience no matter what.
Tips for Navigating Times Square with Kids
When you’re in Times Square with children, you’ll notice various costumed characters, like Mickey Mouse, Elmo, and others, who hope for tips in exchange for photos. While they now have designated areas to roam, they may still approach you if they see you with kids. It’s good to be prepared for these encounters.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try to walk on avenues other than Broadway or Seventh Avenue. Eighth Avenue is usually a bit better. The best way to navigate, though, is through the pedestrian alleys that run between Broadway and Eighth Avenues. Look for Shubert Alley between 44th and 45th Streets, or the walkway at the Marriott Hotel between 45th and 46th Streets. There are similar walkways between other numbered streets, typically between 47th and 48th, 48th and 49th, and 50th and 51st Streets. These hidden paths can make your journey much smoother.
If possible, I recommend leaving the stroller at home. Navigating crowded sidewalks is challenging enough without having to worry about bumping into people or getting stuck in tight spaces. Having kids walk or using a compact stroller if absolutely necessary can make a big difference.
What are the best things to do with kids in Times Square?
The best activities depend on your children’s ages. For younger kids, the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Library, Bryant Park, or the Tom Otterness Playground are great. Older kids and teens might enjoy RiseNY, the Museum of Broadway, or exploring One Times Square.
Planning ahead and having a few options in mind can help make your visit enjoyable for everyone.
Is Times Square worth visiting with young kids?
Yes, Times Square can be exciting for children to see with all its bright lights and sounds. Visiting early in the morning on a weekday is usually best for fewer crowds.
It’s a sensory experience that even little ones can find engaging, but managing expectations and timing your visit is key.
What can kids do for free in Times Square?
Free activities include people-watching from the red steps, visiting local parks and playgrounds like Bryant Park, and exploring the branches of the New York Public Library.
These are wonderful ways to experience the area without spending money, offering both fun and educational opportunities.
What time is best to visit Times Square with kids?
For young children, early weekday mornings are ideal to avoid the largest crowds. Older kids, like teens, might enjoy the animated atmosphere after dark. For a unique sight, the billboards transform into a public art display around 11:57 pm each evening.
Consider what time of day best suits your children’s energy levels and interests.
How do you get to Times Square by subway?
The Times Square Subway Station is served by the 1, 2, 3, 7, N, Q, R, W, and S trains. You can also catch the A, C, E trains at 42nd Street-Port Authority, or the B, D, F, and M trains at 42nd Street-Bryant Park.
Knowing the subway lines can make getting around the city much easier for your family.
There are so many wonderful ways to experience Times Square and its surroundings with your family. I hope these ideas help you plan a memorable and fun trip!
