Family Things to Do on NYE in NYC

UPDATED SEPTEMBER 2024

Traditionally, New Year’s Eve, with its swanky cocktail parties and late night extravaganzas, isn’t the most family-friendly holiday. Fortunately, tradition is being challenged and New York City now boasts a plethora of New Year’s Eve parties and activities that all ages will enjoy. There’s no reason to stay at home in your pajamas on NYE anymore, watching the revelers on TV. In fact, you may have more fun than ever before experiencing the best of these festive and fun New York attractions.

Ripley’s Believe It or Not

At Ripley’s Believe It or Not, the most peculiar and spectacular artifacts, treasures, performances, and games fill the 18,000-square foot “Odditorium.” On New Year’s Eve, your family will have the opportunity to experience this delightfully bizarre attraction with the addition of first-rate New Year’s Eve activities. An open bar and free food all night, provided by the acclaimed Crema Restaurant, is just the beginning! You’ll also enjoy a DJ and dancing, Ripley’s sideshow acts, over 500 exhibits, magic shows and face painting for kids, and of course a champagne (or cider) toast at midnight. Plus, you’ll be located just 1⁄2 a block from the Ball Drop! Please note that the Ripley's Believe It or Not NYE Party is a separately ticketed event, not included in daily general admission.

Water Taxi New Year’s Eve Family Cruise

A New York Water Taxi not only lets you avoid traffic and crowd congestion, it also offers a unique way to see the skyline and all of the city’s most impressive landmarks. This New Year’s Eve, you can see the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building and many more New York attractions from the water while ringing in the new year. Adults are dazzled by the spectacular views, fireworks display, and cash bar, while kids less interested in the sights can delight in Wii games, noise makers, party favors, and snacks like mac ‘n cheese and chicken tenders. The adult menu is slightly more classy, with favorites like stuffed mushrooms and chicken Milanese. New York Water Taxi NYE promises a magical night for all.

Dave & Buster’s NYC

With a location right in the heart of Times Square, Dave & Buster’s high-tech gaming haven is the premier party spot for a family-friendly New Year’s Eve. Comfort-food appetizers, like pretzel dogs and pizza bites, are served all night long; a huge buffet features build-your-own nachos and four cheese pizza; and a 5-hour open bar is the cherry on top! Arcade machines, amusement park games, and virtual stimulators will have everyone playing and laughing for hours. Add music, dancing, and a live count down to the Ball Drop on huge-screen TVs, and you’ve got just about everything you could ask for at Dave & Buster’s NYE.

Madame Tussauds

Want to party with the stars this NYE? Only at Madame Tussauds New York will you find Katy Perry, Oprah Winfrey, and Derek Jeter at the same party. You’ll feel like a celebrity yourself amidst the 250+ life-like wax figurines at one of the most beloved New York attractions. In 85,000-square feet of event space just 1⁄2 a block from the Time’s Square Ball drop, DJs spin dance hits, the 4D cinema awes guests of all ages, and food and drink are served all night long. Kids can spend time in Super Hero’s room or the Sports Zone or take the stage with their favorite stars in the Pop Star Celebrity Room. Please note that the NYE party is a separately ticketed event, not included in daily general admission.

Fireworks in Prospect Park

If classic and simple (and free!) is more your style, head over to Prospect Park in Brooklyn. The festivities start at 11 PM with live holiday entertainment and hot cocoa for everyone. At midnight, an extravagant fireworks display kicks off the New Year in style. It’s a memorable night for kids and adults, and a wonderful tradition to start with your family. The best locations for viewing the fireworks are Grand Army Plaza, inside the Park on West Drive, and along Prospect Park West between Grand Army Plaza and 9th Street. Looking for more New York attractions to ring in the New Year with your family? Get discounted access to your choice of 55 popular attractions with a New York Explorer Pass.

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Best Vacations for Teens

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 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 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 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 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 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. Share your trip with us 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

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Christmas in New York City 2019 - Holiday Things to Do & Fun Seasonal Activities

There are few places as magical in the wintertime as Christmas in New York City. And when it comes to celebrating the Christmas holidays, you better believe that NYC has got plenty going on. If you’re traveling to New York this holiday season, check out our list of the top things to do for Christmas in New York City 2019. Save on attraction admission for the Holidays Regular admission to a number of these attractions is available on the Go New York Pass®. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available New York passes, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special Christmas & holiday events may be separately ticketed and not included in the Go New York Pass. Bryant Park Winter Village presented by Bank of America Bryant Park's Winter Village has become one of the most popular holiday destinations in recent years. The popular greenspace has transformed into a Winter Wonderland for the past 17 years, and this year is no exception. Complete with 170 stalls, a 17,000-sq ft ice rink, and a delicious food hall made up of 12 vendors serving delicious holiday meals, it’s no surprise as to why it’s the best and biggest holiday market in the city. Shop local at the boutiques, offering everything from fashionable sunglasses to hand-made sculptures of your favorite movie characters. It's the perfect place to find a niche gift for that tricky loved one in your life. While you shop, make sure to try a few of the holiday treats too. Delicious craft cocoa and sugar cookies are not to be skipped. Of course, the crown jewel of the Winter Village is the ice rink which serves as a centerpiece. The ice rink is always packed with visitors twirling about and is a fun experience no matter your skating skill level. You can rent skates and a locker on-site and get right onto the ice. There are skating lessons and skate assistants available for kids as well. Anyone visiting New York during the holidays has to visit Bryan Park's Winter Village. It's such a special space and worth spending a few hours! *Please note, the Rink and the Lodge will be open from October 31, 2019, through March 2020. The Holiday Shops will only be open until January 5, 2019. Getting in: Bryant Park Winter Village is free and open to the public. Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park Ice Rink tickets are included with Go New York Pass. THE RIDE Holiday Edition Take NYC’s most enjoyable bus tour with a special holiday twist! Now in its seventh year, it’s more fun and festive than ever, with a focus on holiday sights and sounds. You'll tour New York on a unique bus with side-facing seats, as your entertaining guides tell you what you need to know. But that's not all – keep your eye out for street performers bringing NYC to life all along the route. It's an unforgettable attraction at any time of year – but extra special during the holidays. The RIDE is a great way to get to know NYC and soak up the Christmas spirit, all at the same time! Getting in: THE RIDE tickets are available on the Go New York Pass. Origami Holiday Tree at the American Museum of Natural History If you’re in search of a unique spin on a Christmas tradition, pay a visit to the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH). Their 30-year tradition of putting up an origami tree has inspired kids and adults alike for quite a long time, and it’s well worth your time to visit. The origami itself is made by volunteers throughout the preceding year who were inspired by some aspect of the museum’s collections. The origami takes all forms - from dinosaurs to sea creatures to figments of the imagination. The tree will be on display from November 25, 2019 - January 12, 2020. Explore the museum while you're there! AMNH is one of the largest museums in the world, featuring a 94-foot model of a whale, a famed collection of dinosaur fossils, a 563-carat Star of Indian sapphire, and plenty more intricate artifacts. It has to be on your New York Bucket List. Getting In: American Museum of Natural History tickets are available on the Go New York Pass. The Metropolitan Museum of Art Christmas Tree and Neapolitan Baroque Crèche The Metropolitan Museum of Art will continue its longstanding holiday tradition of erecting the 25-foot blue spruce. It serves as the perfect backdrop for their Neapolitan Nativity scene, complete with silk-robed angels hovering above. The Met's take on a Christmas display always shows the creativity and artistic nature of New York City's art scene. After visiting the tree, make sure to explore as many of the exhibition halls as you can. The museum houses a variety of artworks in all mediums, covering art from each part of the globe. Getting In: Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets are available on the Go New York Pass. Remember to save on attraction admission So there’s our brief list of the top things to do in New York City during Christmastime and the holidays. Remember, many of these options are included on the Go New York Pass, which can save you up to 50% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Please note, the Christmas events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go New York Pass. We hope you plan to add a few of these fun options to your winter vacation itinerary!

Katie Sagal

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