Family Friendly Restaurants in NYC

By Katie Sagal

New York City is undeniably one of the culinary capitals of America. With its diversity of cuisines and rich population of top-notch chefs and restaurateurs, the New York dining scene has something to offer practically every palate. Of course, when you’re traveling with kids sometimes experimental haute cuisine just isn’t going to cut it. So to help you out, we’ve put together a list of the best family-friendly restaurants in NYC. Or, if you’re looking for a bit of time away from the kids, we’ve also thrown in some foodie suggestions. These restaurants are located in New York City and are within walking distance or a quick subway ride from a few great NYC attractions, so they can be easily worked into your family vacation itinerary.

Kid Friendly New York Restaurants Renaissance Restaurant

If you're looking for an extensive menu and inexpensive prices, this is the spot for your family. The Renaissance menu really has absolutely everything, from chocolate chip pancakes to deli sandwiches to pizza. There will definitely be something everyone in the family will enjoy. The casual environment is good for kids and the food comes out very quickly (great for short attention spans). With 24-hour service, this diner is number one for convenience, too. Nearby Attractions: Central Park, USS Intrepid Museum, Bike Rentals

Shake Shack

This popular eatery offers more than just shakes. Burgers, hot dogs, fries, and ice cream make this place a kid favorite, but fresh, high-quality ingredients mean it's a favorite among parents as well! The prices are very reasonable for New York, and the prime location makes it a definite top pick. Nearby Attractions: Grand Central Terminal, Bryant Park, Central Park Movie Tours

Peanut Butter & Co. Sandwich Shop

Only in NYC could you find a restaurant dedicated entirely to menu items featuring peanut butter. You'd be amazed at the diversity of peanut-buttery options, from the classic PB & J to the Mighty Maple Sandwich (maple peanut butter with crisp bacon) to the Peanut Butter Brownie Blast Sundae. If your kids want to try out a peanut butter creation, but you'd rather not, don't worry – a few peanut butter free options are offered as well (like the tuna melt or the salad bowl). This restaurant is so perfect for kids they'll even cut the crusts off for you! Nearby Attractions: Washington Square Park, New York University, 9/11 Tribute Center

Artie's Delicatessen

This restaurant is a re-created 1930s Jewish deli featuring dozens of the owners' favorite traditional recipes. Your kids might not care for the history, but they'll love the delicious chicken fingers, frankfurters, and birthday cake for dessert. If you can get your kids to go for something healthier, they also offer very appetizing soup, sandwich, salad, and entrée options. Try to sell them on the chicken noodle soup or macaroni salad. All menu items are available in house or to go! Nearby Attractions: American Museum of Natural History, New York Historical Society Museum, Hayden Planetarium

Ditch Plains UWS

This place is a great destination for seafood lovers, burger lovers, and barbeque lovers – you name it. Their unique spin on the experience is what they call “beach dining,” a selection of classic picnic or backyard barbeque fare prepared by expert chefs. You’ll find everything from hotdogs and hamburgers to BLTs and mac and cheese at this tasty dining destination. The Upper West Side location is especially conveniently located for further exploration. Nearby Attractions: The American Museum of Natural History, Central Park, the Children’s Museum of Manhattan

NINJA New York

What kid could pass up the chance to dine with ninjas?! This contemporary Japanese restaurant (which includes an accessible variety of cuisines – not just the more complicated stuff) is designed to look just like a recreated 18th century ninja village. Walk through the maze-like interior and marvel at the beautiful construction – don’t forget a camera! Be warned, however, that this isn’t going to be a cheap dining experience. Nearby Attractions: 9/11 Memorial and Museum, TriBeCa, City Hall

Local Cuisine John’s of Bleecker Street

Representing NYC in the great American Pizza Wars, John’s of Bleecker Street is a local institution that’s been serving up NY-style pizza in this historic location for a long time. If you’re looking for the authentic NY pizza experience while trying to avoid tourist traps or overpriced meals, this is the place to go. Be sure to arrive hungry, because slices are big! Nearby Attractions: Hudson River Park, Ground Zero Museum Workshop, departure point for many neighborhood tours (like the Brooklyn Bridge tour)

Strip House Next Door

If you’re looking for another restaurant that represents the best of local cuisine, then why not check out this top-rated steakhouse? Prices are more than reasonable for how delicious the food is, and it’s in a trendy location that allows you to see more of the city than you might otherwise. Strip House Next Door is the perfect destination for both families and couples! Nearby Attractions: Union Square, Flatiron District, West Village

Vegetarian & Foodie Options Candle Café

For those of you in the market for tasty veggie options, then Candle Café is the perfect place for you. With locations on both the Upper West Side & Upper East Side, this trendy local hotspot features fresh, organic vegan cuisine, plus a delicious juice bar. It’s near a lot of local museums (and Central Park), so it’s easy to pop in for a healthy lunch on a busy day of sightseeing. Nearby Attractions: Metropolitan Museum of Art, Central Park, Guggenheim Museum

Angelica Kitchen

This is another excellent vegetarian option that uses exclusively fresh, farm-to-table ingredients in their sumptuous organic cuisine. Everything is made with only the best fruit, vegetables, and grains, so you know what your kids are eating is going to be healthy and tasty. They also offer many gluten-free options if you’ve got any allergies in the family. Nearby Attractions: East Village, Union Square, Empire State Building (a bit north)

Café Paulette

Thinking about going for a date night without the kids on your NYC vacation? Then check out Café Paulette in Brooklyn, one of our favorite French bistros. It’s more affordable than many similar restaurants in Manhattan, but offers the same level of quality and expertise. It’s also a great wine bar, so plan to spend a long time enjoying their delicious offerings in a romantic setting. Nearby Attractions: Fort Greene Park, Brooklyn Museum, Brooklyn Botanic Garden

Lilli and Loo

For lovers of Asian cuisine – including adventurous kids! – Lilli and Loo is an excellent dining destination. Located right in Midtown, this restaurant/sushi bar has tons to offer for the discerning diner in a fun environment. They serve all of your tradition faves, plus a number of plainer options to appeal to pickier eaters. Plus, it’s super affordable, so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank on lunch. Nearby Attractions: Midtown, the Museum of Modern Art, Top of the Rock Of course, you’ll be able to find several great restaurants in the Times Square area, so don’t feel like you have to wander out to the edges of Manhattan to find good food. These selections help you avoid some of the more touristy spots and introduce you to a variety of NYC cuisine. Some areas to explore for additional restaurant options include Greenwich Village, TriBeCa, the West Village, and NoMad. Be sure to read reviews before you go, and choose a spot near a subway station for easy transit (not a difficult task in NYC – there are subway stations everywhere).

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Family Things to Do on NYE in NYC

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 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
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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
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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!
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