My brother and sister-n-law are traveling to New York in the summer and suggested I give them a "things to do" list! Kind of funny for me to help them with an itinerary as I am one of the few in our family that has never been! I decided that since I do dream of going there some day, that I would make a list of activities that interest me...probably many that most of you have enjoyed, but I do it in hopes that I can receive feedback on what to see and what not to see for when I finally get to go. At any rate this "itinerary" can turn into a great resource when I do finally make it to the Big Apple.
First thought when thinking of visiting New York is, do I really want make it a family? Would my four kids...mainly my younger ones, have fun? Of the places I want to visit, I am not sure my children would enjoy. After researching a bit I have come to the conclusion that taking four kids to New York can be a wonderfully fun learning experience, but I have also realized some of my interests would be put on the backburner and saved for a future trip with no kids.
I think this list has a bit of interest for every new visitor to New York young and old alike, but please let me know if they are worth the time to visit.
Day 1 options:
Central Park-visitors center, take a guided tour (the castle tour sounds intriguing), ride the carousel, and let kids play on the multiple playgrounds.
Time's Square-offer free tours every Friday at noon
Macy's Dept store-mainly to ride the original wood escalator built in 1902...What can I say?? I love
the history!
Empire State Bldg.-Is it worth it with a possible two hour wait to reach the top though??
Day 2 options:
Statue of Liberty and possible island hop to Ellis Island
WTC monument
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
Day 3 options:
Visit America's largest dinosaur museum
Travel North about 50 miles to Bear Mtn State Park for hiking or paddle boat rides on the lake
Coney Island
Visit the Wing Fort House which is the oldest home in New England...built in the mid-1600's!!! It is located in East Sandwich, Mass.
Of course, the optimal trip would include a Broadway show...ideally without kids!
I assume this is a very basic list, mostly of the main attractions for first timers. In reality it would take longer than 3-4 days to see other key sights that New York is famous for. If I had my way I would take a road trip through New York to Niagara Falls, visit many historical sights or travel to other states in close proximity.
You are the best Jodi...thanks for the great ideas! We are taking the kids only because we are also bringing our own personal babysitter...so Jeremy and I can go out and do a few adult things. We will return and report...in a few months.;)
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