NYC: The Big Apple
Our New York City adventure as a family was everything we hoped for—bustling streets, jaw-dropping sights, delicious food, and memories that will last a lifetime. From the moment we stepped off the train at Moynihan Hall, the energy of the city swept us up like a fast-paced Broadway number. With three kids in tow and a backpack full of snacks and just the right amount of parental bribery (frozen hot chocolate, anyone?), we tackled NYC one landmark, playground, and slice of pizza at a time. It was loud, crowded, a bit chaotic—and absolutely magical.
As Frank Sinatra so perfectly put it, “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere.” And somehow—with nearly 46,000 steps and a whole lot of laughter—we did just that.
Our packed NYC Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station
8:07 AM – Arrival at Moynihan Train Hall, Penn Station
8:15 AM – Walk to Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square, 330 W 40th St
8:30 AM – Check-in & drop-off luggage
Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
10:30 AM – 1:00 PM – Statue Cruises Ferry to Liberty Island
Depart from Battery Park, visit Liberty Island, and snap family photos
Ferry back by 1:00 PM
Lunch at Eataly
1:15 PM – 2:00 PM – Enjoy a delicious lunch at Eataly, located near the World Trade Center
Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial & Oculus
2:00 PM – 4:30 PM – Visit the 9/11 Memorial, Museum, and Reflecting Pools
Walk through the futuristic Oculus Mall for some architectural marvels and shopping
Late Afternoon: Harry Potter & Madison Square Garden
5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Visit the Harry Potter store
Check out Madison Square Garden and the surrounding area
Evening: Times Square
6:30 PM – 8:00 PM – Explore Times Square
We were so full from a late lunch that we just grabbed snacks from CVS
Visit the M&M Store, Duffy Red Stairs, and the Disney Store
Return to Hotel for Rest
8:30 PM – Head back to your hotel to unwind and rest after an eventful day
DAY 2
8:30 AM - 9:00 AM | Breakfast at Hotel
Start the day with a quick breakfast at the Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square.
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM | Central Park Playtime & Belvedere Castle
10:00 AM – Carriage Ride through Central Park (arrive 15-30 minutes early)
Enjoy a 60-minute scenic carriage ride around the park
After the ride, let the kids play at Heckscher Playground, Central Park's largest playground.
Visit Belvedere Castle for some great views and family photos.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM | Lunch at Serendipity 3
Famous for its frozen hot chocolate and fun desserts, Serendipity 3 is a must-visit spot on the Upper East Side.
2:00 PM - 4:30 PM | FAO Schwarz & Rockefeller Center
FAO Schwarz Toy Store – Play on the giant piano and explore the toy wonderland.
Rockefeller Plaza – Take a stroll around the plaza and enjoy the atmosphere.
Top of the Rock – Take in panoramic views of the city from 2:30 PM (tickets required).
American Girl Store & LEGO Store – Check out these kid-favorite stores nearby!
St. Patrick’s Cathedral – Visit this stunning cathedral for a glimpse of beautiful architecture (free to visit).
6:00 PM | Dinner at Carnegie Pizza Times Square
Since Joe’s Pizza had a line down the block, Carnegie Pizza is a great alternative for a quick, tasty dinner.
7:30 PM | Back to Hotel for Bags
Head back to the hotel to grab your bags and prepare for departure.
8:30 PM | Train Departs
Arrives at 9:55 PM – The train departs at 8:30 PM and will arrive at your destination at 9:55 PM.
Breaking it down
Day 1: Bags dropped and ready to explore!
I’ll admit—I was nervous about tackling the subway system, especially knowing I’d be navigating some of it solo with the kids. But as we stepped into the station for the first time, a kind Metro supervisor must’ve sensed my anxiety. She took us under her wing, patiently showing us how it all worked and how to get where we needed to go. That small act of kindness made all the difference. And the best part? We didn’t get lost once in two whole days!
Statue of Liberty
Visiting the Statue of Liberty was undoubtedly one of the highlights of our New York City adventure. We boarded the Statue Cruises ferry from Battery Park, heading across the harbor to Liberty Island, where we could see this iconic symbol of freedom up close. As we approached the island and saw Lady Liberty towering above us, we couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of awe. We marveled at the statue’s grandeur and the history it represents. The kids loved hearing about its meaning and imagining the glowing torch lighting up the harbor, even though we couldn't go up to it.
Here are a few facts that stood out to us:
The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886 to celebrate the centennial of the American Declaration of Independence.
Standing 305 feet tall from base to torch, it’s one of the tallest statues in the world.
The copper exterior has turned green due to oxidation over time, but it was originally a shiny brown.
The statue’s full name is "Liberty Enlightening the World," and its design was inspired by Roman goddesses.
Although the torch isn’t open to the public, the pedestal offers a fantastic view of the harbor and skyline.
While we didn’t get off at Ellis Island, we stayed on the ferry, which allowed us to see both landmarks from the water. The kids were captivated by a video on the ferry about Ellis Island’s role in American immigration history. We learned that over 12 million immigrants passed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954, many of them in search of a better life. Overall, our visit to the Statue of Liberty was a perfect mix of history, awe, and family bonding. It was one of those moments where you realize how much history is packed into every corner of this country, and I’m grateful we could share it together.
Battery Park Playground
After our ferry ride back from the Statue of Liberty, we headed over to the Battery Park Playground, and the kids absolutely loved it. The playground is a great spot to unwind, with tons of space for the kids to run around, climb, and explore. They had a blast on the swings, climbing structures, and slides, while we relaxed and took in the beautiful views of the harbor and Statue of Liberty from the park. It was the perfect way to cap off our adventure, letting the kids burn off some energy while still enjoying the iconic setting around us.
Eataly
Eataly was hands down some of the yummiest Italian food I've ever had! The whole experience was amazing, and the atmosphere made it feel even more special. Hawkins chose the Fettuccine al Burro di Tartufo e Parmigiano, which was made right at the table—talk about a showstopper! It was absolutely delicious. I went with the Lasagne Emiliane, and Drew opted for the Diavola Dolce—every bite was divine. The flavors were so rich and fresh, you could tell everything was made with care. If you’re in New York, this place is a must-visit for any foodie!
9/11 Memorial and Museum
Visiting the 9/11 Memorial, Museum, and Reflecting Pools was a powerful and emotional experience—though not without its challenges. The museum itself is incredibly moving and detailed, filled with artifacts, audio recordings, photographs, and personal stories that bring the events of September 11, 2001, to life in a deeply human way. Unfortunately, it was a bit too much for the twins, both emotionally and developmentally—they just couldn’t stay engaged, and I found it hard to get into the right headspace while chasing them through such a solemn space. It’s definitely a place I’d love to return to on my own someday, so I can take more time to absorb the stories and honor the lives lost.
That said, Hawkins was really impacted by the experience. He asked thoughtful questions and was especially moved by the “Wall of Faces” and the remnants of the Twin Towers. We had some incredible conversations afterward about how we each remember that day—where we were, what we felt, and how the world changed. As a parent, it was one of those moments where history felt very real and present.
A few facts we learned along the way:
The 9/11 Memorial Museum opened in May 2014 and is located beneath the memorial plaza where the original Twin Towers once stood.
The twin reflecting pools sit in the exact footprints of the towers and feature the names of the 2,977 victims of the 9/11 attacks, as well as the six people killed in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing.
Each pool is nearly an acre in size, and the waterfalls that line their sides are the largest man-made waterfalls in North America.
The museum includes more than 10,000 artifacts, including a fire truck damaged in the collapse and the “Survivor Stairs” used by hundreds to escape.
One of the most poignant traditions is that a white rose is placed on each victim’s name on their birthday—a quiet and touching tribute to their memory. We saw 4 roses during our visit.
While the museum itself may not be the most engaging stop for very young kids, the reflecting pools offered a moment of peace and reverence. Though they were under construction during our visit, I can only imagine how much more powerful and beautiful they must be with water flowing through them. Even so, the quiet atmosphere, the gentle sway of trees in the breeze, and the names etched into the bronze panels created a meaningful pause for all of us—a space to reflect and remember.
Oculus
After our visit to the 9/11 Memorial, we took a walk through the futuristic Oculus Mall. The architecture is stunning—bright, white, and full of soaring lines that make you feel like you’re inside a spaceship or a giant bird taking flight. Even the kids paused to look up in wonder. Inside, we strolled past shops and grabbed a quick treat, but one of the unexpected highlights for the kids was actually outside the mall—they were completely taken with the playful statues and sculptures scattered around the plaza. They had a blast posing for silly photos. It was a fun and lighthearted break in the middle of a heavy and emotional day.
Harry Potter Store
For the Harry Potter lovers in our crew (basically all of us), the Harry Potter Store was like stepping straight into a wizarding dream. We wandered through the magical displays, tested out wands, and argued over which house we actually belonged in (still not over all three kids insisting they’re Gryffindor). The kids were in awe, and honestly, so were we. We couldn’t pass up the Butterbeer—because tradition—but after a few sips, we all agreed it just didn’t hit the same as Universal’s. Maybe it’s the Florida humidity that gives it that extra magic? We also grabbed a Hedwig cupcake, which was almost too adorable to eat… almost. We ate it. Fast. Sorry, Hedwig.
Times Square
Times Square at night was pure magic—bright lights, buzzing energy, and that “we’re really in New York!” feeling. The kids were wide-eyed with awe as we took it all in. We made a must-stop at the infamous M&M store, where each kid got to fill their own bag with a custom candy mix (arguably the most serious decisions of the day).
The highlight? The M&M Mood Analyzer! We all did it for fun, but somehow it nailed each kid’s personality spot-on—Foster was energetic, Emmie was sweet and imaginative, and Hawkins… well, his M&M spirit was “bold with a dash of mischief,” which checks out.
And just for fun, we added a special treat from 2008 by recreating a photo of Drew and me from our honeymoon at the very same M&M store—this time with three little M&Ms of our own in tow. A full-circle moment we won’t soon forget.
We also paused at the iconic Duffy Square red stairs before heading back to the hotel with full hearts—and very tired kids.
Here are some fun and fascinating facts about Times Square that add extra sparkle to any visit:
It wasn’t always called Times Square – It was originally known as Longacre Square until 1904, when The New York Times moved its headquarters there and the area was renamed.
The lights never sleep – Times Square is so brightly lit with billboards and LED displays that it's visible from space! In fact, building owners are legally required to display illuminated signage.
Home of the famous New Year’s Eve Ball Drop – Over 1 million people gather in Times Square each year to watch the ball drop at midnight. The tradition began in 1907!
It’s one of the most visited places on Earth – With an estimated 50 million visitors annually, Times Square is often called “The Crossroads of the World.”
It has its own “zip code” – The sheer volume of business happening there earned Times Square its very own zip code: 10036.
No cars? – Parts of Times Square are now permanently pedestrian-only, creating a more walkable (and kid-friendly!) area to explore.
It’s been in hundreds of movies and shows – From Spider-Man to Enchanted, Times Square is one of the most recognizable film locations ever.
Whether you’re there for the lights, the candy, or the chaos, Times Square is a wild and unforgettable slice of NYC life.
Day 2: Central Park
Carriage Ride
One of the most memorable moments of our NYC trip was our carriage ride through Central Park with NYC Horse Carriage Company. While Drew was working, the kids and I set off on our own little adventure—and it truly felt like something out of a movie. Our driver, Pedro, was full of personality and stories, and our horse, Olaf (yes, like Frozen), was the star of the show. Pedro pointed out all the famous film spots as we trotted past, making it feel like a rolling movie tour through this iconic oasis.
We stopped twice for photos, soaking in the scenery and snapping family shots—though we definitely missed having Drew with us. Hands down, the kids’ favorite part? Feeding Olaf carrots at the end of the ride! It was such a fun and peaceful way to explore the park and pick up some unexpected Hollywood trivia along the way.
Fun Movie Facts:
Central Park has appeared in over 350 films, making it one of the most filmed locations in the world.
Some big-name scenes shot in the park include Home Alone 2, Elf, Enchanted, Avengers, When Harry Met Sally, and Night at the Museum.
Bethesda Fountain and Bow Bridge are two of the most recognizable film backdrops.
Central Park Fun Facts:
It spans 843 acres—larger than the entire country of Monaco!
The park has 58 miles of walking trails, 36 bridges, and 21 playgrounds (our kids tried their best to find them all).
Central Park is entirely man-made—even the lakes and hills were designed and created from scratch back in the 1800s!
Exploring More
Heckscher Playground was an absolute hit with the kids! As the largest playground in Central Park, it had everything from climbing structures and giant slides to water features for splashing around. Tucked among the trees with views of nearby skyscrapers, it was the perfect spot to let the kids burn off energy and just be kids in the heart of Manhattan.
One of my favorite moments from the day? We recreated a photo on one of Central Park’s iconic bridges—standing in the same spot we had 17.5 years ago as newlyweds. This time, though, we had three little sidekicks with us. That full-circle moment made our visit even more special.
Our time in Central Park was a magical mix of movie moments, nature, and family fun—definitely a highlight of our Big Apple adventure.
Serendipidy 3
A visit to Serendipity 3 on the Upper East Side was a sweet walk down memory lane for Drew and me. We first came here 17.5 years ago on our honeymoon, so it felt extra special to return with our kids in tow. We ordered two of our longtime favorites to share—frozen hot chocolate and regular hot chocolate—and they were just as rich, dreamy, and divine as we remembered!
While the food itself was mediocre and definitely pricey for what you get, the nostalgic vibes and those iconic drinks made it worth the stop. We skipped the towering desserts this time—partly because we were stuffed and partly because our wallets were too!
Rockefellar Center & Stores
Visiting Top of the Rock was such a memorable part of our NYC adventure. The panoramic views from the observation deck were absolutely breathtaking—we could see Central Park stretching out behind us and the Empire State Building standing tall in front of us. It felt surreal to take in the city from that high up, especially with the kids wide-eyed and pointing out landmarks they'd only seen in books or movies.
Afterward, we explored Rockefeller Plaza, which was buzzing with energy and filled with people taking in the sights. We made a special stop at the American Girl Store, where Emmie picked out a tiny souvenir for her doll, and then wandered into the LEGO Store, which was equally cool. Foster and Hawkins each had a blast creating their very own mini figures at the LEGO Store. From choosing the perfect hairstyle to picking out the tiniest, most hilarious outfits, they poured so much thought into designing their little LEGO look-alikes. It was such a fun and creative experience—and a great souvenir they were proud to show off for the rest of the day.
St. Patrick’s Cathedral
We didn’t end up going inside St. Patrick’s Cathedral, but we still made a point to learn about it. Instead of navigating the sacred silence with Foster’s high-octane energy (can you imagine him trying to whisper under those soaring ceilings and among the awe-inspiring stained glass?), we opted for the next best thing—a YouTube video that gave us a rich look at the history and beauty of the cathedral. It was still a special way to appreciate such an iconic place, and honestly, probably a much more peaceful experience for everyone involved!
Carnegie’s Pizza
Since Joe’s Pizza had a line down the block, we decided to try Carnegie Pizza in Times Square, and it was a great alternative for a quick, tasty dinner. The pizza was delicious, with a perfect crispy crust and flavorful toppings, making it a fantastic choice when you’re looking for something satisfying without the wait!
Skipped the Brooklyn Bridge
We decided to skip the subway and the Brooklyn Bridge walk, and honestly, our feet were very grateful for that choice. After nearly 46,000 steps in just two days—yes, you read that right, 46,000—we were all about finding the fastest way to sit down. Our legs felt like they’d run a marathon, and with each step, we were pretty sure our shoes were whispering, "Help us." So, we made a beeline for the hotel, grabbed our bags from Fairfield, and then limped to the train station. We collapsed into the nearest chairs and tried to remember what life was like before blisters and exhaustion took over. At this point, we all agreed that we'd earned the right to just chill until it was time to board the train to Philly. Who knew travel could be so exhausting... and so worth it!
Where we stayed
We stayed at the Fairfield by Marriott New York Manhattan Times Square, and it was the perfect spot for our trip. The location couldn’t have been better—just steps from Times Square, Broadway, and all the other major attractions in NYC. Our room was comfortable(-ish, well we crammed five people in 2 full beds!), with free Wi-Fi, and we loved starting our day with the free breakfast buffet. The hotel was easy to get to by subway. The staff was friendly, and the place was super clean. If you're looking to stay right in the heart of Manhattan, this hotel is a great choice!
Visiting New York City with kids
It can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to keep safety in mind to ensure a smooth trip. Here are some helpful safety tips:
Stay Together: NYC can be crowded, so always keep an eye on your kids, especially in busy areas like Times Square or Central Park. Consider using child safety wristbands or a child locator if needed.
Use Public Transportation Wisely: The subway is a great way to get around, but always make sure your kids stay close and don’t wander off. Avoid empty subway cars, especially late at night.
Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stick to well-lit, populated streets, especially after dark. Avoid alleyways or deserted spots in the city.
Teach Them Important Info: Make sure your kids know your contact information, the name of the hotel, and any important landmarks nearby in case you get separated.
Watch Out for Traffic: NYC’s traffic can be intense, so always use crosswalks and follow traffic signals. Hold hands with younger children when crossing streets.
Keep Your Belongings Secure: The city is known for its crowds, so keep an eye on your bags and personal items. Use a crossbody bag and keep valuables in front of you.
Hydrate and Rest: Walking around NYC can be tiring, so make sure your kids stay hydrated, take breaks, and have snacks throughout the day.
Prepare for Weather: NYC’s weather can change quickly, so be sure to dress your kids in layers.
Characters: Be cautious about making eye contact with any characters in Times Square.
Teach Them to Look Around: Encourage your kids to regularly glance around and take note of their surroundings. Help them understand the importance of knowing where they are and what’s going on around them.
Spot Safe Locations: When you arrive in a new area, point out safe places like store entrances, police stations, or other landmarks that can help them orient themselves if they need help.
Explain Personal Boundaries: Teach your kids about personal space and to be cautious when people get too close. Help them understand the importance of staying close to you or another trusted adult in crowded areas.
Teach Them About Strangers: Help them understand the difference between a friendly person and someone who might make them uncomfortable. Teach them who they can trust, like police officers or store employees.
Oh, New York, it was a great visit…
New York City, you were a whirlwind of excitement, blisters, and unforgettable moments! From the towering lights of Times Square to the grandeur of the Statue of Liberty, every corner we turned held something new and awe-inspiring. Our feet may have wanted to stage a revolt after 46,000 steps, but the memories we made—from sipping butterbeer at the Harry Potter store to sharing frozen hot chocolate at Serendipity 3—were totally worth the sore soles.
One of the most special parts of the trip was getting to reminisce about our 2008 honeymoon. We shared stories with the kids, laughed over old memories, and even recreated a few photos in the exact spots we stood 17.5 years ago—now with three little sidekicks in tow.
We didn’t quite make it to the Brooklyn Bridge, but hey, there's always next time... after a solid foot massage. Until then, New York, we’ll be back—just maybe with a few more band-aids in tow!
