Best Vacations for Teens

By Seren Morris
Published: May 16, 2024

Taking teens on vacation can be a challenge. You need a mix of high-energy and chilled out attractions to keep them entertained while considering their unique interests. Deciding on where to take teens on vacation can, therefore, be difficult. But we’ve put together a list of the top cities to go on vacation with teens. They’re full of exciting and diverse attractions that will impress even the most stubborn of teenagers. Our best vacations for teens are:

  • New York City
  • Los Angeles
  • Cancun
  • San Diego
  • Chicago

Save with Go City

Admission to top attractions in these cities is included with Go City. You could save up to 65% on admission vs gate price.

New York City

Image of City, Urban, It’s impossible to be bored in New York. With tons of famous sights to see, as well as cultural and sporting attractions, you won’t be short of activities to entertain your teen.

  • Empire State Building: Anyone visiting New York has to take a trip up to the top of the Empire State Building. Everyone will marvel at the breathtaking sights of the city below, and teens will relish the chance for the ultimate NYC selfie opportunity.
  • Madison Square Garden: Athletic teens – especially fans of the New York Knicks or the New York Rangers – will enjoy a behind the scenes tour of Madison Square Garden. They’ll get to see exclusive areas like the luxury suites, and might get to walk on the court itself.

Los Angeles

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Shoreline, Coast, Waterfront, Aerial View, Glamorous LA is a great vacation spot for teens. It has amazing theme parks, celebrity-themed attractions, and gorgeous beaches – what more could a teenager ask for?

  • Santa Monica Pier: Take your teens to Santa Monica Pier for relaxing beach vibes, fun theme park rides and delicious food. They’ll love the mix of exciting activities and the opportunity to hang out in trendy Santa Monica.
  • Universal Studios Hollywood: There isn’t a more family-friendly attraction than Universal Studios Hollywood. It has rides, shows, and entertainment to suit everyone, but especially teens. Teenagers who love high-thrill rides will be spoilt for choice at Universal Studios Hollywood. Plus, they’ll be enjoy being immersed in the worlds of their favorite movies and TV shows.
  • OUE Skyspace and Skyslide: See Los Angeles from up high at OUE Skyspace and Skyslide. It has amazing views of the city below, plus now through 11/30/19, Skyslide is included in general admission. This is a fun activity with great photo opportunities – definitely one for the teenagers.

Cancun

Image of Water, Waterfront, Vehicle, Yacht, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Harbor, Pier, Boat, Sailboat, Land, Shoreline, Another great option is Cancun, which has tons of action-packed attractions, as well as luxurious relaxing opportunities, making it the ideal vacation spot for families with teenagers.

  • Xplore Full-Day Admission: Take your teenagers to Xplore for a day of adventure that they’ll never forget. Full-day admission allows you access to seven different zipline routes, an amphibious vehicle, hiking and walking routes, water rafts, and swimming equipment. Additionally, you can kick back and relax with pools and lounges, and a complimentary buffet lunch.
  • “Get Up and Go” Catamaran Sail: This Catamaran Sail allows you to be as relaxed or as active as you like. You’ll cruise on the beautiful waters, and will have the chance to snorkel, explore Isla Mujeres and enjoy their beach club, and make the most of a buffet lunch.
  • Tulum Express Tour: Another great Cancun attraction for teenagers is the Tulum Express Tour. Take a tour of well-preserved ancient Mayan ruins, surrounded by gorgeous waters and sandy beaches. You’ll get to explore the archeological site with an expert guide, then, you’ll have plenty of time to explore on your own accord. Teens should be interested in the ruins, as they have an important and fascinating history. But they may equally enjoy getting to explore the local shops and the beach.

San Diego

Image of Summer, Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Promontory, Water, Palm Tree, Tree, Landscape, Sea, Beach, Coast, Shoreline, Sky, Another city in California – San Diego - is a top destination for teenagers. This SoCal city is home to beachy activities as well as classic theme parks.

  • SeaWorld San Diego: This attraction is a mix between a theme park and an aquarium – there’s no way teens will get bored at SeaWorld San Diego. They’ll get to ride thrilling rollercoasters, and marvel at the stunning marine life.
  • 1 Hour Boat Rental: Teens will feel cool jetting through the ocean on this 1-hour boat rental. They’ll get to enjoy stunning sights of the San Diego skyline, plus plenty of selfie opportunities. Just be careful with your phones and cameras!
  • Knott’s Soak City Water Park: This is a family-friendly attraction, but teens, in particular, will love Knott’s Soak City Water Park’s 17 thrilling speed, tube, and body slides. There are also opportunities to relax and take it easier, like the lazy river and wave pool.

Chicago

Image of City, Building, Tower, Chicago is a vibrant city with lots going on for young people. From fun attractions to cultural spots, Chicago has you covered.

  • SkyDeck Chicago: SkyDeck Chicago should be at the top of your itinerary. You’ll experience unparalleled views of the Windy City, and will have some amazing photo opportunities. Definitely one for the Instagram generation.
  • Art Institute of Chicago: Arty teens will appreciate a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s home to a wide collection of art ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary American art. With a range as broad and exciting as this, there’s no way teens will be bored.
  • Navy Pier 4 Ride Pass: Navy Pier is a famous Chicago attraction, and teens will love getting to ride the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel, Carousel, Climbing Wall and Light Tower. The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel will be especially popular, as it provides great views of the city and Lake Michigan.

In summary

So there’s our list of the best vacations for teens. These cities have a great mix of adventurous, chilled out and cultural attractions to keep your teenagers entertained and engaged throughout your vacation.

Save with Go City

Admission to top attractions in these cities is included with Go City. You could save up to 65% on admission vs gate price.

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Follow us on Facebook and Instagram, and share your adventure with us. Tag us at @GoCity and use #GoCityPass on your travel photos to keep us up to date with your vacation!

Seren Morris
Go City Travel Expert

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Statue of Liberty in front of the Manhattan skyline
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The Best Time to Visit The Statue of Liberty

Perhaps the definitive emblem of American freedom, the Statue of Liberty is a must-see attraction on any visit to New York City. Sure, it can be seen from dozens of vantage points around Manhattan: the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, Battery Park, Brooklyn Bridge, the One World Observatory... and the list goes on. But nothing beats getting right up close with a roundtrip on the ferry to Ellis Island, where you can visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and various parts of the Green Goddess herself. Yep, that even includes the 162-step climb up the internal spiral staircase and into the famous crown: one for those with a head for heights only! Read on for our guide to the best times to visit this American icon. Opening hours The park is comprised of Ellis Island, Liberty Island and their various attractions, and is open from 9AM until 5.45PM daily, including most holidays. The park is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Please check the Statue City Cruises website for the most up-to-date ferry schedule and seasonal variations on opening hours. Advance booking is required. Your Go City attraction pass includes the return ferry trip, plus entry to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and ground level area of the Statue of Liberty National Monument. Best time to visit the Statue of Liberty The first thing to know is that the Statue of Liberty is one of the most-visited attractions in NYC. The second is that, if you plan to visit both Ellis and Liberty islands in one day, you should aim to get as early a ferry as possible. Services start running from 8.30AM in summer, which should even leave early risers with enough time for a leisurely breakfast before boarding. Summer is Lady Liberty’s busiest season, with more frequent ferry services leading to denser crowds and, by extension, longer lines. Spring and fall see slight dips in tourism, meaning less time spent waiting around, while winter is the quietest season of all, with queues often non-existent. But it’s a hardy soul who braves the cold of Liberty island in New York’s famously freezing January. Inevitably weekends are busier than mid-week, but it really is all relative and there is truly no quiet time to visit the statue. Our recommendation is to catch the first ferry departures Tuesday–Thursday if you really want to beat the crowds and get inside the museums ahead of anybody else. Note that the popularity and limited capacity of the statue’s crown and pedestal areas (not included in the standard ferry ticket) mean advance booking is essential. Getting to the Statue of Liberty The only way to get to the Statue of Liberty is via ferry from departure points in Battery Park in Manhattan or the Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Aim to arrive approximately 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time as there’s a required security screening of all passengers before boarding. Tickets You can check the latest schedule and book tickets on the Statue City Cruises website. All ferry tickets include access to the Ellis Island Immigration Museum and Statue of Liberty Museum and grounds. If you want to visit the pedestal or climb the spiral staircase to the crown, you’ll need separate tickets. These must be booked in advance via the Statue City Cruises website. Save money with a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive pass for New York attractions, which includes your ferry ticket plus entry to the museums. Passes also give you access to dozens more iconic attractions around the Big Apple, including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, the Guggenheim and the Empire State Building’s 86th-floor observation deck. Where to eat Fancy a picnic? You’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks to both islands, but all items must be sealed during the screening process and large coolers are not permitted. No food or drink can be taken inside the pedestal or crown of the Statue of Liberty; lockers are available for storing items. There are also snack bars on the ferries as well as cafes serving a variety of sandwiches, snacks, salads and ice creams on both islands. In brief... Visiting as early in the day as possible, ideally Tuesday to Thursday during spring or fall makes for the most comfortable weather conditions and the shortest lines. In truth, there is no time to visit the Statue of Liberty when it won’t be at least a little busy, but the tenet of booking the earliest ferry in the day holds true regardless of season or day of the week. It really is your best chance of dodging the lines and being first inside the museums before the tourist crowds descend. Finally, don’t forget to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit the pedestal or crown areas. Get the Go City attraction pass to make great savings when visiting this and other top New York City attractions! Useful links Book tickets online Get the Go City attraction pass for New York Visit the Statue of Liberty with Go City Further information for visiting the Statue of Liberty
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
New york skyline at night with lit windows, plus lit-up tops of Empire State and Chrysler building
Blog

Things to do in New York for a Birthday

“It’s up to yoouuu, New York Ne-ew Yoooork!” Take it Frank! Make the promises of that karaoke classic come true. Because there’s nothing better than celebrating a birthday in New York City. And exactly how you celebrate is indeed up to you! Unwrap our suggestions, grab your sightseeing pass and start spreading the news...The Big Apple is too big for an exhaustive list but we hope you’ll be inspired by some of our best NYC birthday ideas. Treats we’ve wrapped up include: The best food in New York New York Harbor Cruises Luna Park on Coney Island Exploring Central Park Following in the footsteps of celebrities Taking in a Broadway show Hitting the high spots (including a New York helicopter flight) Posing for rooftop photoshoot and making memories Discover the best food in New York Let’s start as we mean to go on - filling our faces! Begin your day of celebration with breakfast the American way. Tuck into a tower of fluffy pancakes, served with crispy bacon, blueberries and a stream of sticky maple syrup. Enjoy eggs every way you can imagine. Bag bagels and cream cheese, biscuits and gravy, cinnamon rolls, English muffins, Belgian waffles, fruit salad - all washed down with unlimited caw-fee...Shall we stop yet? The Tick Tock Diner on 8th Avenue (corner of 34th) is not only the largest diner in NYC but serves breakfast around the clock. Happily, whatever the time of day, the melting pot of culture that is NYC means you can find pretty much any cuisine of your dreams - whether you’re satisfied with a street stall or looking to have your cake and eat it at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Pick up some tasty treats at multi-cultural Chelsea Market, in the heart of the funky Meatpacking District, renowned as one of the greatest indoor food markets in the world. Chefs and locals crowd this formerly industrial space to select prime cuts of meat, fresh fish and artisan cheese, whilst tourists stop by for premium burgers, Italian gelato, pizza, pastrami, bagels, hot dogs, Chinese, Korean BBQ...the list is deliciously endless... A Food on Foot Tour will help you discover even more authentic eateries and best kept snack secrets. Choose the Midtown Mix Tour to chow down like a local in Manhattan or the Go West Tour to discover the culinary diversity of historic Hell’s Kitchen. To enjoy the flavours of the neighbourhood known particularly for its Eastern European Jewish community, opt for a Tastes of the Lower East Side walking tour and pick up delicacies such as a true kosher pickle, a knish, a bialy and the famous black and white cookie. Cruise New York Harbor - fast or slow Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, why not push the birthday boat out - literally - with a morning or afternoon of leisurely sight-seeing aboard a Best of New York Circle Line Cruise? Whatever the time of year, indoor seats or a huge outdoor deck make it a fun yet relaxing way to tick off some of New York’s best sights. You’ll cruise all three rivers and see around 130 landmarks including the full Manhattan Skyline, the Yankee Stadium, Greenwich Village and the Financial District. If you’re tight for time, with more birthday fun to pull in, the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise is a shorter - 90 minute - tour of the premium views, including the Brooklyn Bridge and the Chrysler Building. Later, for a magical twilight finale to a special day, set sail on a Harbor Lights Cruise which departs just as the sun sets. An onboard bar serves beer, wine, cocktails and soft drinks so you can raise a birthday toast as you watch that unforgettable skyline twinkle into life. If you’re celebrating a teen birthday - or simply feel the need for speed - maybe ditch the gentle cruise in favour of a blast from The Beast. Get on board this mean, green, jet-powered speedboat to roar down the Hudson river at speeds of up to 40 knots? It’s loud, it’s fast and, since the crew have been known to wield water guns, you’re likely to get wet! Whichever you choose, birthday candles can’t hold a torch to Lady Liberty. Fast or slow, all harbor cruises make time for mandatory photo opps of New York’s most famous icon. Smile please! Ride classic coasters at Coney Island If thrills and spills are your idea of birthday fun, how about a trip to Coney Island’s legendary Luna Park? From families with kids, to coaster connoisseurs, there’s something for everyone at this fun seaside destination, around 10 miles from the city. The first Luna Park, opened in 1903, was renowned for its ground-breaking attractions and the miracle that was electric lights. Although that park burned down in 1944 it inspired dozens more ‘lunaparks’ around the world and the amusement park that still stands on the site has all the colourful quirkiness of the original. Enjoy its timeless charm as you stroll the boardwalk, play the sideshows and thrill to rides including the 137ft Astro Tower, the Steeplechase coaster and the Brooklyn Flyer chair swing. Then brace yourself for launch as extreme thrill ride Slingshot catapults you into the air at 90mph. Luna Park is also home to the historic Cyclone Roller Coaster, a bone-shaking, breath-taking wooden coaster dating from 1927 that is registered as a New York City Landmark. Dare you ride? Explore Central Park Whether you’re looking for action on your special day or prefer more laid-back celebrations you’re sure to find a destination or activity to suit in Central Park, possibly the world’s most well-known urban green space and beloved by locals and tourists alike. Take a carriage tour, relax in a rowboat or get up close to the animals at the zoo...Perhaps you’ll get your legs pumping and your heart singing with a two-hour bike tour that takes in top sights like Belvedere Castle, the Imagine Mosaic and Strawberry Fields. Put your best foot forward on a walking tour of little known paths and ponds along with famous fountains and statues. Or simply pick up some snacks (and a birthday cake of course) and unwind with the perfect picnic. Follow in the footsteps of celebrities Whilst we’re in Central Park are you getting a niggling feeling that you’ve somehow been there before? To sort out the sights you’ve seen on screen try tagging along on a TV & Movie Sights tour. Where did Kevin meet the bird lady in Home Alone? Is that the bridge where Buddy throws snowballs in Elf? Shed light on locations from Love Story, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, Enchanted and Glee to name a few...All so familiar. And super fun. If you love that kind of celebrity stalking, why stop at Central Park, when there’s a whole city awash with spots you’ll recognise from the big and small screens. Jump on an NYC TV and Movie Bus Tour to grab a selfie at classic locations like the Friends apartment building, the Ghostbusters Firehouse and familiar places from Ocean’s Eight, Spiderman and loads more... There’s even a special movie tour for fans of Marvel and DC Superheroes. Capes at the ready... Take in a Broadway show New York is known the world over for its sparkling theatre district. So grab your popcorn, get your feet a tappin’ and take your seats for a birthday performance. Even if you don’t know your jive from your jazz hands, with 41 Broadway theatres, each typically offering 8 performances a week, we’re confident you’ll find something you’ll enjoy. There are shows for literally every taste and age group, from straight drama, to comedy, performance art (the Blue Man Group) and original music (like the physical percussive show, Stomp). Or maybe, like most, you’ll opt for the magic of the musicals? Choose from family favourites like The Lion King, Aladdin or Wicked, or long-running classics like Phantom of the Opera or Chicago. Perhaps one of the big-name shows of recent years - think Hamilton or Come from Away - will capture your heart? To scout out the options or learn more about the area, the theatres and the stars, why not join a walking tour of Broadway and Times Square? From the glamour to the ghost stories, you’ll be centre stage for all the showbiz gossip, trivia and history. On your birthday, after all, the spotlight is on you! Hit some high spots Wheeee! A helicopter ride over New York is about as awesome as it gets. Unless you’re some kind of seasoned celebrity it’s an incredible once-in-a-lifetime thrill to soar above the skyscrapers for a unique, birds-eye view of the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and all the rest.There are plenty of private tours on offer, usually including a commentary or fun facts. If you book at sunset you’re guaranteed all the glory of golden hour - though beware if the weather’s cloudy - it would suck to soar but not see... If your budget doesn’t stretch quite that far, take it to the top anyway by hitting one of the city’s many breathtaking observation decks. Gaze down at the distant hubbub from the dizzying heights of the Empire State Building’s 86th floor observatory. Or get a snap of the Manhattan skyline including the Empire State, by zooming up to the Top of the Rock observatory at the Rockefeller Centre. Make memories Whilst you’re feeling on top of the world, a rooftop photoshoot is a super-cool way to ensure a lasting memory of your special day. An expert photographer will capture the moment in a private session, as you pose against the backdrop of the World Trade Center. Or, to be even more original, create your own picture for posterity on a sketching tour with a New York City-based artist. You’ll get a drawing-pad and pencil along with a 90 minute tour of history, culture and the chance to sketch some Lower Manhattan landmarks including the Wall Street Bull, the Washington Monument and the Trinity Church Cemetery (final resting place of Alexander Hamilton.) Let's draw a line. We hope we’ve given you just a rough picture of the many places you might choose to pop a cork and blow out your candles in the buzzy, beautiful Big Apple. To discover some of them and many more New York attractions, pick up an All Inclusive Pass or an Explorer Pass, then sightsee, save and celebrate with Go City. It’ll feel like your birthday every day.
Jo Cooke
space shuttle at intrepid
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Which Museum Wins in NYC? Natural History vs. Intrepid Explored!

The Battle of the Big Museums: From Dinosaurs to Decommissioned Aircraft Carriers  New York dazzles with museums, but when you only have time for one, picking between the American Museum of Natural History and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum isn't easy. Are you in the mood for a journey through time—roaming with ancient mammals, marveling at gigantic dinosaurs, and exploring the mysteries of outer space? Or do you prefer to step onto the deck of a renowned aircraft carrier, check out legendary space shuttles, and scramble inside classic fighter jets? In this guide, we’re weighing up the best of both worlds, with all the info you’ll need to nail your perfect NYC adventure.  The lowdown  American Museum of Natural History  Home to one of the world’s largest dinosaur fossil collections—including a fearsome T. rex.  Awe-inspiring dioramas and immersive halls covering oceans, earth, and space.  The Hayden Planetarium dome: flight through the cosmos in style.  Stunning gems, meteorites, and minerals on display.  Central Park location—easy to include in a classic NYC day out.  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum  Explore a gigantic aircraft carrier that helped win World War II.  Clamber through real aircraft and stand beneath the legendary Space Shuttle Enterprise.  Get up close with a Cold War-era submarine, the USS Growler.  Set on the Hudson River with sweeping views and boats galore.  Packed with interactive exhibits that let history fans touch, see, and hear the past.  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  It’s a toss-up because awe takes different forms at these museums. At the Natural History Museum, size is the showstopper. Whale skeletons float above you, dinosaurs tower overhead, and meteorites the size of basketballs sit just inches from your nose. You keep discovering rooms—a rainforest here, an ancient civilization there.  But the Intrepid’s very foundation is stunning—this is a mammoth warship, after all. Standing on her deck, feeling the breeze and imagining fighter jets roaring into action below your feet, gives chills. The physical experience is hard to beat. The Space Shuttle Enterprise, looking surprisingly delicate up close, makes you feel part of America’s greatest leaps of exploration.  Which one is more fun?  With kids or the young at heart? The Natural History Museum is like the world’s best treasure hunt. Kids dash from lions to Lucy the early human, pressing buttons, touching fossils, and peering into space. There are interactive guides, kid-focused areas, and daily shows to keep all ages enthralled.  The Intrepid ups the ante for hands-on adventure. You can climb into cockpits, try flight simulators, and descend ladders into submarines. Older kids and adults light up at the chance to “take off” in a jet simulator or stalk stealthily down a sub’s narrow halls.  Which is more beautiful?  Beauty at the Natural History Museum comes from within: sunbeams shafting through massive windows, illuminating mammoth skeletons and glittering crystals. Every gallery offers a new kind of visual feast, from delicate butterflies to glowing blue minerals.  Over at the Intrepid, open-air decks come alive under a brilliant sky, with glinting planes and city vistas from the Hudson. Late afternoon brings golden light and out-of-this-world views. Seeing the cityscape rise in the background while standing beneath the wings of the Enterprise is something you won’t forget.  Which has the better view?  While the Natural History Museum edges out with stunning Central Park views (hop onto the terrace if you can!), the Intrepid soaks up the glory of the Hudson. The ship delivers a unique vantage point: gaze downtown to the Freedom Tower, over New Jersey’s riverfront, or across gleaming city skyscrapers. Sunsets from the carrier’s deck feel memorable.  How do I get there?  American Museum of Natural History  Subway: Take the B or C train to 81st St–Museum of Natural History. You’re seconds from the front entrance!  Bus: The M79 crosstown or M7, M10, M11 will drop you nearby.  Tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through Central Park before or after.  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum  Subway: Take the A, C, E, or 1, 2, 3 trains to 34th St–Penn Station. It’s a 15-minute walk west along 34th, or hop on an M34 bus.  Bus: M42 and M50 buses head toward the west side.  Tip: On warm days, walk along the Hudson River Greenway—perfect for river views and street performers.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Traveling with little ones? Both museums are crowd-pleasers, but the Natural History Museum is a wonderland for all ages—toddlers, teens, and grandparents included. Playful exhibits and interactive displays keep young minds buzzing.  Couples looking for a romantic or fascinating break will love the quiet wonder in the Natural History Museum’s more peaceful halls—a cozy planetarium show, anyone? Or, the sheer thrill of wandering an aircraft carrier at sunset could be your perfect date.  Groups of friends might lean toward the Intrepid—especially anyone fascinated by science, history, or aviation. Test your nerve in a flight simulator or challenge each other to submarine trivia.  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?  The Intrepid specializes in interactive thrills: climb through helicopters, play pilot, steer a ship’s wheel, and crawl through sub hatches. They rotate fun, family-friendly programs, especially on weekends and school holidays.  But don’t count out the Natural History Museum for hands-on appeal. The Discovery Room offers science games, puzzles, and specimen handling for kids aged 5–12. Many halls have touchable exhibits and digital interactives. Science workshops and live storytelling keep everyone engaged.  What’s the accessibility like?  Natural History Museum: Fully accessible and thoughtfully designed for everyone. Elevators reach each floor, restrooms are wheelchair-friendly, and they offer tactile and audio tours for visitors with visual or hearing impairments.  Intrepid Museum: Accessibility has come a long way for a historic ship! There are ramps, lifts, and accessible restrooms plus wheelchairs available for loan. Not all areas of the sub or ship’s lower decks are accessible due to the original structure, but the main exhibits and flight deck can be reached smoothly.  Best lunch spots nearby?  Near American Museum of Natural History:  Shake Shack (366 Columbus Ave): For a funky, family-friendly vibe and that craveable ShackBurger with crispy crinkle fries, this spot’s unbeatable. Their ‘Shroom Burger is a must for vegetarians.  Cafe Lalo (201 W 83rd St): Fans of yeast cakes and “You’ve Got Mail” will love this sunny, Parisian-style spot. The display of cakes, tarts, and pies is the stuff of dreams.  Café Sabarsky (1048 5th Ave inside the Neue Galerie): If you’re after an Old World European experience, this upscale Viennese café is all glamour—think marble tables, walnut paneling, and rich Sachertorte.  Zabar’s (2245 Broadway): More casual? Swing by this legendary Jewish deli for a smoked salmon bagel or pastrami on rye. Perfect for grabbing a picnic to enjoy in Central Park.  Near Intrepid Museum:  Print (653 11th Ave): Upmarket and stylish, serving farm-to-table American fare. The signature truffle fries and grass-fed steaks are local hits; the rooftop bar, Press Lounge, is perfect for sunset cocktails.  Gotham West Market (600 11th Ave): A foodie paradise with ramen, tacos, sandwiches, and more all under one industrial-chic roof. Try Ivan Ramen’s spicy miso just a block from the water.  Mercury Bar (659 9th Ave): For a fun, pubby vibe and big burgers or wings with craft beer, this sports bar hits the mark and won't break the bank.  Chelsea Market (75 9th Ave): Stretch your legs and explore dozens of food vendors—from lobster rolls to gelato—in a converted warehouse. The artful urban energy here is irresistible!  Where are the best photo opportunities?  Natural History Museum:  The T. rex skeleton and blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life—iconic NYC moments.  Hayden Planetarium’s gleaming globe from the outside, especially at golden hour.  The Jade dino in the fossil halls—snap your little adventurers posing heroically.  The steps outside on Central Park West, especially in morning sunlight.  Intrepid Museum:  The deck with fighter jets lined up and the Manhattan or New Jersey skyline behind.  The sleek, white Space Shuttle Enterprise—stunning from every angle.  At sunset, the carrier’s prow offers cityscape shots with golden skies.  The submarine Growler’s profile along the pier—great for dramatic close-ups.  Photo tips: Visit early for people-free shots or dusk for dreamy light. Daytime outdoor shots shine at the Intrepid, while the museum’s dramatic interior lighting helps your Natural History snaps.  We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?  By American Museum of Natural History:  Prohibition (503 Columbus Ave): Cozy, speakeasy vibes, live music, and a mean Manhattan cocktail.  Nobody Told Me (951 Amsterdam Ave): Neighborhood hangout with creative signature drinks like the Szechuan Daiquiri—zippy and delicious.  The Dead Poet (450 Amsterdam Ave): Literary-themed pub, friendly crowd, brilliant Guinness pour, and poetry quotes all around.  Near the Intrepid Museum:  Press Lounge (653 11th Ave): Upscale, panoramic river-to-city views and sleek décor make this rooftop spot a memorable treat; try the Cucumber Collins for a fresh twist.  Rudy’s Bar & Grill (627 9th Ave): Dive bar legends—cheap beers, a friendly local crowd, and free hot dogs!  Rise Bar at the Ink48 Hotel: Another rooftop favorite, it pairs well-made cocktails with wraparound views of Manhattan.  Any other good stuff nearby?  Natural History Museum:  Central Park: Right across the avenue—rent a bike, row a boat at the Loeb Boathouse, or visit the enchanting Shakespeare Garden.  Children’s Museum of Manhattan: Just a few blocks north. It’s interactive and energetic—kids love it.  The Dakota: Peer at this famous 72nd St apartment building and imagine John Lennon’s New York life.  Intrepid Museum:  Hudson River Park and Piers: Walk, picnic, rollerblade, or just watch the boats sail past. Sunset from Pier 84 is magical.  Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises: Hop aboard for a river float past NYC’s greatest sights.  The Vessel at Hudson Yards: A quirky climbable sculpture and plaza with wow-factor design (free entry with time slot).  High Line Park: Stroll this elevated garden-park packed with art and city views just a 15-minute walk away.  Planning the perfect NYC museum adventure  When you’re choosing between the American Museum of Natural History and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, you truly can’t go wrong. Each delivers its own twist on curiosity—fossils and stars inside a historic, lively building or airplanes and shuttles aboard a piece of living history. The neighborhoods, food picks, and outdoor extras near each add even more to the experience.  Let your interests and group guide you—whether that’s the allure of ancient bones, the rush of walking a ship’s deck, or just the best spot for a family selfie. New York’s treasures are waiting, and these two museums belong at the very top of your adventure list.    Enjoyed this? Why not browse Free Experiences Just Steps From The Statue Of Liberty  and Things to do Near Top of the Rock?  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®     We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.    See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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