10 Top Spring Break Ideas for Families Visiting NYC

Feb 05, 2025

10 Top Spring Break Ideas for Families Visiting NYC
By Nina T.

10 Top Spring Break Ideas for Families Visiting NYC

New York City is one of the most underrated spring break destinations in the U.S. It’s fast-paced, vibrant, and always changing. And, surprisingly, it’s one of the best places to do spring break on a budget.

As the weather warms up, there are tons of things to do in NYC on spring break. While some may focus on visiting NYC solo, others might consider visiting with a group and doing activities like an NYC food tour. Personally, I think the city makes the perfect family getaway after a long winter.

Top Spring Break Ideas for Families Visiting NYC

  1. Ride Bikes Through Central Park

  2. Visit the Bronx Zoo

  3. Play at Luna Park on Coney Island

  4. Explore the Museum of Modern Art

  5. Visit the New York Botanical Garden

  6. Discover The Edge NYC

  7. Walk the High Line

  8. Eat Your Way Through Little Italy

  9. Explore the American Museum of Natural History

  10. Take a Classic Harbor Line Cruise

In this roundup, I’ll be spilling all the secrets on my top 10 favorite things to do in NYC for spring break for families with kids, so you can get the most out of the Big Apple during your stay!

Top 10 NYC Spring Break Destinations

It’s not just about Times Square! NYC is a sprawling city that spans 462 square miles across five distinct boroughs. Whether you’re dreaming of shopping on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan or want to discover the best pizzerias in historic Brooklyn, you’re in for a treat.

New Yorkers know that the city is a hidden gem this time of year. From fresh flowers blooming on the High Line to languid strolls through the Bronx Zoo, families can delight at all the amazing things to do. Let’s get started!

1 | Ride Bikes Through Central Park | One of my favorite things to do in Central Park is rent a Citibike and ride it along the scenic paths.

If you’re looking for cheap and fun spring break ideas for families in NYC, it’s hard to beat spending a day in the city’s most famous park!

You can pack a picnic lunch and enjoy it in Sheep’s Meadow, let the kids play on one of the playgrounds, and enjoy watching wildlife along the trails.

A day at Central Park is good for the soul, and during the gorgeous spring weather, it’s the perfect destination for city slickers and visitors.

WHERE: Central Park, New York, NY 10019 | WHO: (212) 310-6600

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2 | Spend a Day at the Bronx Zoo | One of my favorite outdoor spring break activities for families in NYC is visiting the Bronx Zoo!

You can see over 11,000 animals in beautiful habitats, all divided into their own “neighborhoods,” like the Congo Gorilla Forest and Madagascar!

Kids and grown-ups both love riding the Wild Asia monorail, and there are extra animal encounters you can book that let you meet a critter up-close.

Be sure to check out the Butterfly Garden to relax among the flowers as hundreds of beautiful butterflies surround you.

WHERE: 2300 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10460 | WHO: (718) 220-5100

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3 | Play at Luna Park on Coney Island | This iconic amusement park is a family-favorite among locals.

Generations of New Yorkers have flocked to Luna Park for decades. It’s hard to resist with its amazing beach views and lively atmosphere.

You can easily get to Coney Island from NYC by car or subway.

I’ve made a habit of visiting at least once a year, and the view of the Wonder Wheel at night never gets old.

WHERE: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224 | WHO: (718) 373-5862

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4 | Explore MoMa Together | The Museum of Modern Art, or MoMa, as we New Yorkers call it, is one of the best places to visit in the city.

For fun kid-friendly attractions in NYC during spring break, touring this beautiful art gallery is a must.

Between interactive art labs and audio tours made just for them, kids can have a blast discovering the world of art at this historic NYC museum.

WHERE: 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019 | WHO: (212) 708-9400

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5 | Stroll Through the New York Botanical Garden | Whenever I have friends coming to the city for the first time, I always suggest they visit these incredible gardens in the Bronx.

During the spring, the entire garden is in full bloom, and it’s truly a sight to behold. You probably never expected such a nature paradise in a bustling city!

Touring the lush landscapes and admiring the thousands of flowers is the perfect way to enjoy spring break in NYC as a family.

WHERE: 2900 Southern Blvd, Bronx, NY 10458 | WHO: (718) 817-8700

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6 | Discover The Edge NYC | The Edge is a wildly popular observation deck in West Chelsea, Manhattan, that makes for incredible family photos.

You’ll have the whole city as your backdrop when you stand 100 stories above the ground!

There’s a see-through glass floor that can be truly mind-blowing. It’s on level 4 of Hudson Yards, a famous shopping mall filled with restaurants and designer stores.

WHERE: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001 | WHO: (646) 954-3181

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7 | Walk the High Line | The High Line is a fantastic, family-friendly NYC attraction perfect for enjoying fresh air during the spring.

You can enjoy a 1.45-mile stroll through Chelsea to Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District.

This former railroad track is now a major transportation street and hotspot for visitors. Over eight million people walk it each year!

The High Line is stroller-friendly and totally free! You can enjoy views of the city and art installments that make for a memorable family outing.

WHERE: New York, NY 10011 | WHO: (212) 500-6035

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8 | Eat Your Way Through Little Italy | Save the trip to Europe and visit Little Italy instead!

This charming and historic neighborhood in Lower Manhattan is packed full of incredible restaurants, from tiny, family-owned bakeries to world-famous pizzerias.

You’ll love admiring the art and architecture while savoring classic Italian bites made from secret family recipes.

Pro Tip: Be sure to grab a cannoli from Ferrara Bakery, open since 1892!

WHERE: Little Italy, New York, NY 10013 | WHO: N/A

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9 | Explore the American Museum of Natural History | The American Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in NYC for families with kids during spring break.

Kids can see a lifesize T-rex, roam through a kid-friendly discovery room, and marvel at the wonders of the world through interactive exhibits.

A trip to this museum is always a good idea, and if you’re visiting the city for spring break, I can’t recommend it enough!

WHERE: 200 Central Park W, New York, NY 10024, USA | WHO: (212) 769-5100

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10 | Take a Classic Harbor Line Cruise | Harbor Line cruises from Chelsea Pier are a great way to take in views of the city.

You can book a sunset ride or sightseeing boat tour that gives you an amazing look at the NYC skyline.

The staff members on Harbor Line cruises are always generous and accommodating, going out of their way to make sure your visit is wonderful.

I’m a big fan of the NYC family boat rides. There are a variety of packages you can book that are great for kids of all ages, while still being relaxing for adults.

WHERE: 62 Chelsea Piers Pier 62, New York, NY 10011 | WHO: (212) 627-1825

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Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!


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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting NYC for Spring Break

Absolutely! New York City is one of the best spring break destinations for families and travelers looking for a mix of culture, entertainment, and sightseeing. With warmer weather, blooming cherry blossoms, and outdoor events, spring is a fantastic time to explore iconic landmarks like Central Park, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty without the extreme cold of winter or the heavy summer crowds.

Spring break in New York City offers a variety of activities for all ages. Exploring Central Park while the flowers bloom is a must, along with visiting the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock for stunning skyline views. Seeing a Broadway show, walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, taking a sightseeing cruise on the Hudson River, and checking out the cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden are all fantastic ways to experience the city. Visitors can also explore world-famous museums like the American Museum of Natural History and The Met.

Spring in New York City is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing. In March and April, temperatures typically range from the mid-40s to mid-60s°F (7-18°C). While some days can be chilly, especially in early March, visitors can expect warmer afternoons and occasional rain showers, so bringing a light jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella is recommended.

Yes! There are plenty of free things to do in New York City during spring break. Walking through Central Park, Prospect Park, or the High Line provides stunning views of blooming trees and gardens. Exploring Times Square, visiting the New York Public Library and Grand Central Terminal, and walking across the Brooklyn Bridge offer great sightseeing without any cost. Street performers in Washington Square Park provide lively entertainment, and the Staten Island Ferry offers free views of the Statue of Liberty.

Families visiting NYC for spring break will find a variety of kid-friendly attractions. The American Museum of Natural History features dinosaurs and space exhibits, while the Children’s Museum of Manhattan has interactive play areas. The Bronx Zoo and Central Park Zoo are great for animal lovers, and Luna Park at Coney Island reopens in the spring for classic amusement park fun. One World Observatory offers an incredible view of the city, making it a memorable experience for all ages.

Spring is the perfect time to see cherry blossoms in NYC. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is one of the most famous spots, featuring the Cherry Esplanade in full bloom. Central Park also offers beautiful cherry blossoms around the Reservoir and Pilgrim Hill. Roosevelt Island, Sakura Park in Morningside Heights, and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park are other top locations where visitors can admire the pink blossoms.

For families and budget-friendly stays, some of the best hotels in NYC for spring break include Westgate New York Grand Central, which offers spacious rooms in Midtown Manhattan. The Peninsula New York provides a luxury option with top-tier amenities, while Hotel Beacon features family-friendly suites with kitchenettes. Pod 51 is a great budget option with a central location, and The New Yorker Hotel is an excellent choice for those wanting to stay close to Times Square and Penn Station.

Packing for NYC in the spring means dressing in layers to adjust to fluctuating temperatures. A light jacket or trench coat is essential for cooler mornings and evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must since NYC is best explored on foot. Bringing an umbrella or raincoat is advisable for unexpected spring showers. A crossbody bag or backpack is helpful for carrying essentials while sightseeing, and sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended for outdoor activities.

Yes! New York City hosts several spring events and festivals perfect for visitors. The Macy’s Flower Show, which takes place from late March to early April, features stunning floral displays. The New York International Auto Show in April attracts car enthusiasts, while the Tribeca Film Festival, running from April to May, is a must-visit for movie lovers. The St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 17th is one of the largest in the U.S., and the Easter Parade and Bonnet Festival on Fifth Avenue is a fun, lively tradition.

The best way to get around NYC is by using public transportation. The subway system is the fastest and most affordable way to explore the city. Buses, taxis, and ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also available. Walking is a great option in areas like Midtown, Times Square, and Central Park, where attractions are close together. Renting a Citi Bike provides a fun and eco-friendly way to see the city while enjoying the fresh spring air.

NYC is known for its incredible food scene, and visitors should try some of the city’s most iconic eats. Joe’s Pizza serves up a classic New York slice, while Katz’s Delicatessen is famous for its legendary pastrami sandwich. Shake Shack in Madison Square Park is a great spot for burgers and frozen custard. Eataly offers authentic Italian cuisine, and Chelsea Market features a variety of food vendors offering everything from tacos to fresh seafood. For dessert, Junior’s Cheesecake is a must-visit for a slice of classic New York-style cheesecake.

For the best deals, it’s recommended to book hotels at least two to three months in advance. Spring break is a popular time for tourists, so booking early ensures availability at top-rated hotels. Broadway tickets, Statue of Liberty tours, and Top of the Rock tickets should also be purchased in advance to secure preferred time slots.

Make the Most Out of Your NYC Spring Break Experience

Ask anyone from NYC and they’ll tell you: there’s no place like NYC. Spring is one of the most beautiful times of year in NYC, and it’s the perfect occasion to take time off from work to enjoy making new memories as a family.

While exploring the city, consider visiting landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center and Grand Central Station. In fact, if you’re visiting the historic train station, pop on over to Westgate New York Grand Central for a luxurious and comfortable stay for the whole family.

It doesn’t matter whether you want to appreciate nature, soak up the city’s vibes, learn a little history, or go on an epic family adventure, NYC awaits!

For more travel guides to exploring New York City, visit the Westgate Resorts Travel Blog.


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At Westgate Resorts, when you Check-In, there’s a LOT to Check-Out! Your vacation awaits! Start planning your next vacation today or talk with a vacation planner at 888-852-2959 or 407-355-2690.

* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.

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