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5 Awesome Things to do in NYC …

January 6, 2022 By admin

I’m always getting asked about my top picks for a family-friendly NYC vacation so today I’m sharing some of my favorite New York City outings for kids. If you’ve got a family trip to NYC in the calendar, be sure to check out these 5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids…

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids

In no particular order, these attractions are great for kids of all ages and parents (and grandparents) will enjoy them too.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Statue of Liberty.

The Statue of Liberty, Battery Park

This outing will take a half-day but it will be well worth your time. The ferry ride gives you some amazing NYC views and photo ops and the expansive Liberty Park grounds are perfect for little ones to run around. Older kids will love going up to the crown level while the pedestal level is great for younger kids. Buy tickets in advance and check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty before you go.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Seaglass Carousel in Battery Park.

The Seaglass Carousel, at the Battery Conservancy

New York City’s newest carousel is a showstopper sure to thrill kids and grown ups alike. Unlike traditional horses, this ride features an array of gorgeous translucent fish that are up to 14 feet tall. Guests will feel like they are swimming as they glide and swirl around while the fish change colors and magical music comes from every direction. At $5 a ride, this is a must for the whole gang.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise.

Circle Line Cruise, Pier 83

Since Manhattan is an island, one of my favorite ways to take it all in is by sea. With a choice of family-friendly tours and longer sightseeing trips, this is one of my family’s favorite things to do on a sunny day. You can’t go wrong with the 1.5 hour Landmark Cruise which takes guests along Manhattan’s west side to the Statue of Liberty and back.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. One World Trade Center.

One World Trade Center.

With 360 degree views of New York City, the One World Observatory at One World Trade Center is a must see for tourists and locals alike. From the history lesson in the elevator ride to the on site concierge desk, kids will be sure to learn some interesting tidbits about NYC along the way. Be sure to check out the nearby sights like the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Brookfield Place, the Oculus and the new Eataly before or after your visit.

5 Awesome Things to do in NYC with Kids. The Highline, NYC.

The High Line, Chelsea.

Located above Manhattan’s west side, The High Line is free and fabulous. Kids will love exploring all the fun views and kid friendly spots (look for the seesaw bench and secret tunnels) while parents will love the laid back (and car free) ambiance. Check out the events calendar before you go and leave time to explore nearby Chelsea Market and art galleries. There are several staircase entrances and exits and a few elevator entrances so map out your arrival spots carefully if you’ve got a heavy stroller.

Have you visited any of these spots? Tell me below in the comments.

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Statue of Liberty Tips – …

April 19, 2021 By Globetrotting Mommy

The Statue of Liberty is one of the world’s most popular monuments and a must for family visits to New York City. Read on for my Statue of Liberty tips including what you need to know before you go.

(Note: Due to Covid restrictions, the pedestal and crown are currently closed. Statue of Liberty Museum and theater are open with limited capacity. Ellis Island Museum is open, but theaters remain closed. All visitors must wear face coverings and keep socially distanced.)

Top 5, Tips, Statue of Liberty tips, Travel, New York City, Tourist Monuments — Statue of Liberty Tips – What to know before you go

Top 5 Statue of Liberty Tips

Everyone rushes to The Statue of Liberty in the summer but fall and spring are also ideal seasons to visit. Be sure to charge your cellphone and bring binoculars for kids.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty. The ferry offers amazing views of The Statue of Liberty. — Statue of Liberty tips. The ferry offers amazing views of Manhattan too.

TICKETS AND PRICING

1- To avoid long lines, buy tickets in advance! Book tickets online at Statue City Cruises, the official operator of ferry service to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island on behalf of the National Park Service. Prices for the ferry and museum/grounds are $12 for children 4-12, $23.50 for adults and $18 for seniors. Additional charges apply for crown and or pedestal access (NOTE: These options are currently closed due to Covid). Children under 4 are free and you will definitely want to bring a stroller.

Summer and fall are the busiest times to visit so reserve a week or two in advance for pedestal access and four-six months in advance for crown access. Print tickets at home and go straight to the Battery Park security line behind Clinton Castle. Weekdays draw fewer crowds and unless you visit in summer, be prepared for a breezy ferry ride.

WHERE TO GO? CROWN VERSES PEDESTAL AND GROUNDS

2 – Before you book tickets, assess your family’s stamina and patience levels and decide on your viewing plan. To visit the crown, kids need to be at least 48 inches tall and able to climb 377 steps. Keep in mind that the security and ferry lines can be fairly long and it might take an hour or so to arrive on Liberty Island. Be sure to board the ferry at least two hours before your ticket time.

On our first trip, we got pedestal tickets and the views were amazing (I did have to lift my daughter to see over the ledge). With these tickets, you can also walk around the entire star-shaped multi-level base which wasn’t crowded and offered plenty of room to run around and take in the amazing views.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting The Statue of Liberty. Pedestal tickets offer amazing NYC views. — Statue of Liberty tips. Pedestal tickets offer amazing NYC views.

On our second visit with friends, we went up to the crown.

STATUE OF LIBERTY TIPS – WHAT TO BRING

3 – This day trip will take at least a few hours so bring snacks and pack lunch if you’re planning an afternoon visit. Food and beverages are allowed on the ferry and on Liberty Island but you will need to store these items in a locker ($2 for two hours so bring dollar bills) if you go inside the statue. Cameras, phones and water bottles are permitted inside. Food and drinks are available for purchase on the ferry, Liberty Island and Ellis Island but choices are limited/fast food and pricy.

GRAB A FREE AUDIO TOUR

4 – When the ferry arrives on Liberty Island, go directly to the audio tour booth and pick up a free audio tour for everyone in your group. Tours are available in multiple languages and there is a children’s version narrated by a bird that even young children will enjoy. You can go at your own pace and still listen to the tours which is nice. This was my daughter’s first audio tour and I was amazed to see her pointing out the information she was hearing and talking about what the bird was telling her.

DON’T MISS THE MUSEUM AND JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

5 – For families with kids of all ages, be sure to check out the new Statue of Liberty Museum which opened in 2019. The new space features sweeping views, a theater experience, the original torch, historical mementos and more. For kids ages 7-12, print out a Junior Ranger Activity Booklet. Return a completed copy to the Liberty Island information center to receive a Junior Ranger Badge.

If you still have energy, continue on to Ellis Island and explore the Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Each return ferry stops here before heading back to Battery Park.

Have you visited The Statue of Liberty? What was your favorite memory?

Visit City Experiences for other world-class water and land-based experiences across the US including iconic NYC sightseeing cruises and attractions including the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory and more.

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10 Awesome Kids Books – …

March 12, 2021 By Globetrotting Mommy

New York City is one of the best places to explore with kids and reading is a great way to get kids excited about upcoming trips. If you’ve got NYC on your family travel bucket list, check out these 10 Awesome Kids Books – New York City.

10 Awesome Kids Books – New York City

1) 123 New York: A Cool Counting Book by Puck. Perfect for babies and toddlers, this little board book is a great introduction to NYC landmarks. The book is all numbers and pictures so it “reads” in any language you’d like. Uno Statue of Liberty… Dos baseballs…Tres Brooklyn Bridges…they’ll be counting up to ten in no time.

2) This is New York by Miroslav Sasek (ages three and up). I have loved this book for years. The classic storybook shows many details of city life with cartoon characters and colorful illustrations. It may seem a bit dated but it still captures the spirit of New York.

3) Larry Gets Lost in New York City (ages three – seven). Lovable puppy Larry is always getting lost. Follow Larry’s escapades around Manhattan while he visits the city’s many landmarks and attractions.

4) A Walk in New York by Salvatore Rubbino (ages four – eight). Another favorite, this gorgeous book features a father and son’s New York City explorations. Bits of trivia mix with the drawings so kids learn all sorts of interesting NYC facts like the names of the marble lions outside the New York Public Library…aka Patience and Fortitude.

5) Little Kid, Big City (ages five+). Written by a popular NYC blogger, this book is full of first-hand tips for visiting a slew of Big Apple sights and attractions. Kids “choose” their own adventure as they read by deciding “where to go” and flipping through the gorgeously illustrated pages. The fold-out map is super handy for little navigators.

6) My Subway Ride by Paul DuBois Jacobs (ages four – eight). This colorful book depicts the sounds and sights of the NYC subway system. Girls and boys will both enjoy this one.

7) Balloons over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade by Melissa Sweet (ages five – ten). If your family loves New York City’s famed Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, this book is sure to become an immediate favorite. The story tells the true story of how the famous floats came to creation with gorgeous graphics and a bit of STEM education along the way.

8) You Can’t Take a Balloon into the Metropolitan Museum by Jacqueline Press Weitzman (ages five-eight). This wordless picture book follows a yellow balloon as it floats all around Manhattan. Kids will recognize famous landmarks as well as paintings and sculptures as they use their imaginations to “read.”

9) Eloise: The Ultimate Edition by Kay Thompson (ages five-ten). For girls who love, love, love Eloise, this treasury will be a big hit. This is a great choice for young travelers since it features Eloise in Moscow and Eloise in Paris as well as Eloise at Christmastime and the original Eloise story and scrapbook.

10) The New York Times: 36 Hours USA & Canada by Barbara Ireland (Kids eight and up). Bigger kids can plan family adventures with this coffee table book filled with travel itineraries and suggestions for trips to New York City (and beyond).

Books make great birthday, baby shower and holiday gifts and these are all sure to please globetrotting kids and parents alike. Planning a New York-themed baby nursery? Just stock a bookshelf with these and you’re halfway there.

(Note: This post contains affiliate links)

Sailing Around NYC Aboard …

November 7, 2019 By admin

Since New York City is surrounded by water, one of my favorite family activities is sailing around NYC. We’ve cruised around Manhattan on everything from large Circle Line ships to an authentic 1930’s tugboat. For our most recent voyage, we climbed aboard a classic 1950’s yacht and enjoyed a scenic fall foliage cruise with Classic Harbor Line.

Sailing Around NYC Aboard Classic Harbor Line

We lucked out with a sunny fall day and fairly mild temps. I packed scarfs and hats, a picnic brunch and some Halloween treats to fight off any hangry or “I’m cold” moments.

Sailing Around NYC Aboard Classic Harbor Line

Tourists and locals alike will enjoy the Fall Foliage Cruise on Yacht Full Moon from Chelsea Piers. The 2.5 hour trip up the Hudson River is a great option for the whole family as the yacht offers comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, tables to share a picnic lunch, bathroom facilities and a very accommodating staff.

My daughter loved sitting on the upper deck bean bag chairs (yes, blankets are provided) where she could point out all the NYC buildings as we departed Chelsea Piers.

Aside from the colorful foliage, we loved spotting iconic landmarks such as the George Washington Bridge, the Cloisters, the Palisades, the Little Red Light House and the Tappan Zee Bridge.

Captain Pat narrated here and there sharing a bit of history as he pointed out the sights. He even offered to let my daughter try her hand at sailing.

Two friendly staffers were on board to deliver drinks (warm and cold) and blankets. I definitely recommend bringing a picnic and/or snacks if you’re bringing kids. The downstairs seating area is heated making it a great spot to eat.

There are plenty of photo-ops so be sure to bring a camera. With stunning views along the way, you’ll want to capture it all.

So gorgeous, right?

In addition to a variety of fall foliage cruises, Classic Harbor Line has several holiday cruises perfect for the whole family including the Cocoa and Carrols Holiday Cruise and a Holiday Jazz Cruise.

If you’re looking to escape the NYC holiday crowds, sailing around NYC aboard Classic Harbor Line’s holiday offerings would be a great idea.

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Awesome Broadway Shows for …

July 26, 2018 By admin

Taking kids to New York City means checking out the latest Broadway shows for kids. The Big Apple has a wide variety of theater performances to fit every age and price range so you can bring along the whole family. From toddlers to teens, kids will enjoy these on and off-Broadway favorites.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Best New York City Shows For Little Kids (Preschool to early elementary)

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater in Central Park

Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater – Nestled away in Central Park, this gem of a Marionette Theater is the perfect place for small kids to see a short performance usually based on a classic children’s tale. We’ve seen favorites such as Jack and The Beanstalk and holiday shows here and our latest trip was to see Neverland: Peter Pan Returns. Kids sit in the front rows with parents on the sides and back so everyone is guaranteed a good seat and after the show, performers demonstrate the Marionettes which is always a hit. Most performances are good for toddlers and up but for Neverland, I would say the sweet spot is four and older.

Gazillion Bubble Show – Little kids love bubbles so its no surprise that this one-hour bubble extravaganza is a family favorite. Kids will love the gigantic soap bubbles, walls of bubbles, helium bubbles and bubbles within bubbles. Add in some special effects (like lasers and strobe lights) and bubble magic and even the grown-ups will be mesmerized. Note: Your kids will beg to have their picture taken in a giant bubble so be prepared to buy the pricey photo. Great for toddlers and up.

Best Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Frozen: The Broadway Musical – For the first time in forever, Anna and Elsa have hit the Great White Way by storm. Disney’s Broadway version of the popular movie about sisterly love has been updated with a few new songs but the main premise remains the same. The St. James Theater turns into a winter wonderland with falling snow, stunning sets and the adorable Olaf but the phenomenal singing steals the show. Although little princesses will want to see this one, it is best for kids 6 and up.

SpongeBob SquarePants: The Broadway Musical – Who lives in a pineapple under the sea? SpongeBob SquarePants! This surprise runaway hit is popular with kids and adults for good reason…the set, acting, choreography and music are all phenomenal. Think Squidward tap dancing with undersea friends, a very believable sponge and a colorful cast of Bikini Bottom characters running around onstage and in the aisles. If your kids haven’t seen a Broadway show yet, this colorful, confetti-filled extravaganza is a perfect first show. Great for ages 4 and up.

The Lion King – When you mention Broadway shows for kids, this one tops every list. Imagine a bigger than life puppet extravaganza full of imaginative costumes (giant Giraffes, leaping gazelles and majestic lions), amazing music, and unbelievable sets. This award-winning story of Simba, a cub destined to be king of his pride, is sure wow parents and kids at the same time. A good option for a child’s first Broadway show assuming they are familiar with the story. There are a few somewhat scary scenes so I’m recommending for ages 6 and up but younger children are welcome.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

Aladdin – A classic Broadway musical is always sure to please and one of my favorite kid-friendly picks is Disney’s Aladdin at the New Amsterdam Theatre. The show features a great mix of dancing, singing, colorful costumes, spectacular sets, funny characters (OMG the Genie!) and witty repartee for the grown-ups. I love that there are no scary parts and that the storyline is easy for little kids to understand. When Jasmine and Aladdin go flying across the stage on the magic carpet, kids of all ages will be wowed. This show is two-hours and 30 minutes with one intermission so plan bathroom breaks accordingly. Tickets are pricey but all seats are good (even in the balcony) just be sure to grab boosters for small kids. If you’re looking for a theater outing with your favorite mom friends (and their kids), this is a great option. Ideal for kids 4 and up.

Best Off-Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Blue Man Group – This long-running show is perfect for kids (tots to teens) and adults too. My daughter describes this one as “kind of a circus, kind of a magic show and kind of a music show” which pretty much sums up this creative performance. The Blue Man characters, who remain silent and in-character throughout the show, do an amazing job entertaining as they toss cereal into each other’s mouths, interact with the audience, play drums, paint and perform other funny acts. My daughter was giggling throughout the entire show along with the other kids in the audience. The 90-minute show (no intermission) ends with gigantic streams of toilet paper flooding the seats from above so you warn small kids. Some scenes are loud so bring along headsets for sensitive ears. Stay and take pictures with the performers after the show but don’t expect them to chat. You can also catch Blue Man shows in Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Orlando or on their World Tour. Great for kids 5 and up.

Stomp is a favorite off-Broadway show for kids of all ages.

STOMP – I first saw this show years ago when the East Village was super grungy and I was swinging single. I saw it again with my husband and daughter and it has stood the test of time. Located in the Orpheum Theatre, the one-hour and 45-minute performance (no intermission) is a great option for musical kids. The six-person cast uses rhythm and movements as they turn objects and body parts into musical instruments. There is no complicated storyline to follow and there is plenty of humor so young kids will definitely enjoy. Some parts of the show are very loud so earphones are a good option. You can also see Stomp on tour. Best for ages 4 and up.

Best New York City Shows For Tweens and Teens

Hamilton is the most popular pick among tweens, teens and adults and you cannot go wrong with this show. Getting tickets is tough and pricey and the language is complex so kids need to pay attention. The talented crew wows with their dance moves, rapping, wit and songs. Younger kids will miss the subtle sexual references but older kids will notice. It will definitely help if kids have some background on Hamilton and the American Revolution in advance so consider reading a Hamilton book or two before you go. My daughter has seen it twice and it is still her favorite show. Try to win the digital Hamilton lottery where you can get two tickets for just $20. Best for ages 8 and up as there is some strong language.

Awesome Broadway Shows for Kids and Other Great Performances

School of Rock, The Musical features an incredibly talented cast including several spunky children who play their own instruments. Based on the movie, with music by Andrew Lloyd Weber, this Broadway hit is full of humor, positive messaging and rock and roll. Jokes are geared to adults and children with some funny moments keeping us on the edge of our seats. The positive messages for adults (listen to your children) and children (be true to yourselves) really hits home. This is a great show the whole family will enjoy. Best for ages 7 and up.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child – The world of Harry Potter has finally arrived on Broadway with an epic two-part play. The shows are set two decades after the final chapters of J.K. Rowling’s famed novels and the two plays can be seen on the same day or in two separate showings. These shows are long (2+ hours with a 20-minute intermission) so decide if you will see them back-to-back or separately. This show is popular so book as far in advance as you can. Tip: Make a lunch reservation if you are seeing both shows in one day. Great for Harry Potter fans (who are familiar with the books and movies) ages 8 and up.

Extra Resources for New York City Theater Lovers

Another recommendation for family-friendly (and affordable) programming is the New Victory Theater in Times Square. The shows we’ve seen here have always been unique with some featuring talented performers from around the globe. From acrobats to dance and magic performances, performances never disappoint. In addition, the central venue is gorgeous with a slew of kid-friendly amenities and interactive kids activities. The 2018/19 schedule is here so search by suggested age-range and you’re bound to find something great.

Have questions about a show not listed above? Check out Petite Seat to keep up on the newest New York City shows for kids of all ages.

Have you seen any of these off-Broadway or Broadway Shows for Kids? Tell me below in the comments.

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Summer Fun: Top 10 Things to …

June 13, 2017 By admin

I’m always amazed by all the things to do in Coney Island. From beaches and museums to all-day amusement park rides and family-friendly eats, Coney Island is a great day trip for the whole family. Read on for my favorite Coney Island picks…

Top 10 Things to do in Coney Island

Luna Park has 30 family friendly rides.

1) Ride the family friendly rides at Luna Park, NYC’s largest amusement park. New this year, Luna Park’s all-day wristband includes unlimited rides (one ride per visit for the Coney Island Raceway and Slingshot) on all 30 Luna Park attractions including the Cyclone. Now that my daughter is over 48” inches, she loved going on The Tickler and Steeplechase rides.

2) Bring your swimsuits and hit the waves at Coney Island’s beach. Coney Island boasts nearly three miles of family friendly beach so bring a cooler and chairs and stay for the day or just take a quick dip and get back on the rides. Don’t forget the sunscreen and other family friendly beach essentials.

3) Stop for a photo-op and snack at Coney Island Walls, the outdoor museum of street art.

10 Things to do on Coney Island. Ride the iconic Cyclone roller coaster.

4) Celebrate the Cyclone’s 90th anniversary by riding this iconic roller coaster (must be 54 inches). I guarantee you’ll love it.

Nathan’s Famous is a must for Coney Island visitors.

5) Have a hot dog at world’s famous Nathan’s Famous. If you’re up for it, join in on the world famous July 4th Hot Dog Eating Contest.

6) Take a spin on the historic B&B Carousell which has been gorgeously restored.

7) See the Brooklyn Cyclones baseball team in action at MCU Park. Their Sunday Funday games include kiddie perks and giveaways with themes including Paw Patrol, Marvel Super Hero Nights and more.

8) Join in on the famous Mermaid Parade taking place on June 17.

Dino's Wonder Wheel is one of Coney Island's top attractions.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel is one of Coney Island’s top attractions.

9) Take a spin on Deno’s Wonder Wheel, the centerpiece of Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park. This 97-year old Coney Island landmark offers the best beach and boardwalk views with a choice of swinging or stationary cars. You’ll also find dozens of family friendly rides here including some newly restored vintage rides.

10) Walk along the boardwalk and discover old school arcades, circus shows, and the nearby New York Aquarium.

Before you go, be sure to check out my Top 5 Tips for Visiting Coney Island and check out the events calendar.

Have you been to Coney Island? Tell me your favorite thing to do there in the comments below.

Special thanks to the Alliance for Coney Island for inviting us to participate in Coney Island Family Blogger Day. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Staycation Family Fun at …

March 7, 2017 By admin

It isn’t every day I get to really play tourist in my own city so when Conrad New York invited my family for a downtown staycation, I jumped at the chance. If you are looking for a family friendly all-suite hotel in the heart of NYC’s new downtown, Conrad New York is a fantastic choice.

Conrad New York is a great choice for families visiting New York City.

Many tourists think they need to stay near Times Square but I like to recommend families stay in more residential areas to get a better feel for the “real” New York while avoiding the craziness of midtown. Located just steps away from Brookfield Place, and nearby the Freedom Tower and 9/11 memorial, Westfield World Trade Center shopping center (aka the Oculus) and historic Battery Park, Conrad New York was an ideal home base for our two-day trip.

We live nearby so we arrived by taxi and quickly checked in. The 15-story lobby is just stunning and the signature 10-story custom artwork, Sol Lewitt’s Loopy Doopy, really mesmerized us all as the colors changed when the lights shifted.

Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

The hotel features a sleek modern design with stylish decor, a grand marble staircase and awesome Hudson River views – I particularly loved the open air spaces that allow guests to take in the art and views from every floor. Just the place to stay inspired…

We settled into our suite (one of 463) which was stylishly decorated with modern art and a soothing color palate. My daughter had her own sleeping area in the living area while my husband and I claimed the master bedroom. In addition to the comfortable beds (and plush feather pillows!), there were closets upon closets, an incredibly spacious bathroom, a separate oversized walk-in rainfall shower, a desk area and chairs for relaxing.

Our stylish suite at Conrad New York. Staycation family fun at Conrad New York.

My daughter immediately fell in love with Hudson, a stuffed bull mascot who was awaiting her arrival.

Our first stop was a visit to The Rink at Brookfield Place where we were greeted by Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov who manage the rink.

Staycation, New York with kids, Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

Former U. S. Olympic ice skaters Melissa Gregory and Denis Petukhov at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

My daughter and I enjoyed some time together on the ice and then she had a private lesson. The rink isn’t too large making it easy to keep track of your kids and balancing props for young children are available. Talk about a rink with a view. Such a gorgeous backdrop, right? If you’re lucky, you might catch an Ice Skate with Olympic Greats performance.

Skating at The Rink at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

Conrad New York offers hotel packages that include ice skating lessons here – definitely a unique perk for an NYC hotel. The ice rink is housed outside Brookfield Place all winter but during the other seasons, you can often find cool art exhibits and other fun pop-up events.

We went back to our room and were quickly greeted with a fresh fruit plate and drinks. I have no idea how the hotel staff read our minds but we were hungry and thirsty so this hit the spot.

Post ice skating snack at Conrad New York.

The weather was gorgeous so we decided to explore outside after a quick pit stop at the hotel’s gift shop. I usually expect touristy things from a hotel shop but this one was nicely curated with specialty NYC themed books (for adults and kids), toys and other trendy items. The friendly guy working there started talking photography with my husband so my daughter and I could happily browse.

Be sure to check out the great gift shop at Conrad New York.

For lunch, we stopped at Hudson Eats, the family friendly food hall upstairs at Brookfield Place, which features a variety of upscale quick serve restaurants and a huge seating area with waterfront views. From sushi, bagels, pizza and sandwiches to salads, tacos, burgers and cupcakes, everyone in the family can find something to eat. I almost always order a Num Pang sandwich while my daughter and husband usually grab a burger, grilled cheese, pizza or sushi.

Downtown NYC has a lot of sights that most tourists never see. I highly suggest the walk from Brookfield Place to Battery Park which is along the Battery Park City Esplanade. There are no cars along the paved promenade making it very easy to roam with kids and you will spot interesting sights (Statue of Liberty!), lookout points, grassy spots and great playgrounds along the way…

Battery Park City Esplanade is a favorite spot for families to explore. Staycation Fun at Conrad New York.

Battery Park is full of adventures for tourists and locals alike and if you have an afternoon or full day, I highly recommend you visit the Statue of Liberty, ride the gorgeous Seaglass Carousel or take a sail aboard the Staten Island Ferry.

We stopped by the Cool Globes art exhibit just at the top of Battery Park to check out the amazing oversized globes on display.

Checking out the Cool Globes. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

Then we headed back home to the hotel with a stop at the West Thames Park. Love these stunning Freedom Tower views.

Downtown New York City has a variety of playgrounds. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York.

After a quick change, we headed back over to Brookfield Place for dinner. There are always fun art exhibits going on in the gorgeous palm tree filled glass atrium and we got to see the famed Luminaries display which features hundred of changing lights that coordinate to holiday songs. If you are in the area over the winter holidays, be sure to check it out.

Luminaries at Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad, New York

We had a delicious dinner at Beaubourg in Le District and we were so happy we could just walk home after our long day. If you love French cuisine, Le District is a gourmand’s haven filled with restaurants and shops selling everything from meats and veggies to pastries and French candy.

Le District in Brookfield Place. Staycation Family Fun at Conrad New York

I really love having a suite when we travel since my daughter usually goes to bed around 8 pm and I like to stay up later. It was so nice that our Conrad New York suite allowed my daughter to fall asleep while my husband could stay up late without having to be quiet or keep the room dark.

My daughter loved having her own space at Conrad New York.

After a great night’s sleep, my daughter and I enjoyed lounging around reading while my husband checked out the in-room Nespresso coffee machine. We had a nice relaxing morning and headed to our 10 am brunch reservation at Atrio in the hotel’s lobby. Of course, our new pal Hudson joined us.

Young travelers receive a stuffed Conrad bull at Conrad, New York.

Young travelers receive a stuffed “Hudson the bull” at Conrad New York.

We chose the breakfast buffet which was loaded with pastries, bagels, and yogurt parfaits along with eggs, bacon, potatoes and other breakfast items. The restaurant features river views behind sparkly “curtains” that mesmerized my daughter and Hudson. In addition to weekend brunch, Atrio also serves breakfast, lunch and dinner and features an Instagram-worthy wall of wine.

Atrio at the Conrad New York features a stylish dining room with river views.

We spent the rest of our day checking out the nearby attractions like the Regal Battery Park movie theater (which you can enter from the hotel!), department stores (hi Saks), restaurants (including Danny Meyer signature spots) and the shiny new Oculus which houses some amazing retailers, eateries and the newest Eataly (think everything yummy from Italy under one roof).

After thoroughly exhausting ourselves in a good way, we headed back to Conrad New York to grab our bags and say goodbye.

Thanks for a great staycation at Conrad, New York

If you want a pampering family friendly hotel stay with a great location to explore downtown, NYC, I highly recommend Conrad New York.

Have you ever stayed downtown? Tell me your favorite attractions in the comments below.

A very special thanks to Conrad New York for providing accommodations, breakfast and skating lessons. As always, all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One …

October 11, 2016 By admin

One World Observatory, the observation deck at the top of One World Trade Center (aka Freedom Tower) in New York City has quickly become one of the city’s top tourist attractions since it opened last year. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple, here are my top tips for visiting One World Trade Center, NYC’s tallest building.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

TICKETS AND PRICING AT ONE WORLD TRADE CENTER

1 – Buy your tickets in advance but don’t waste your money on the “priority” admission options since all visitors must pass thru the same waiting and security areas. The “flex” options are much more expensive but if you want to guarantee a clear day or kids being in a good mood, you may want to consider this. All tickets are timed so plan on getting there about 10-15 minutes before your scheduled admission time and you will be fine. If you’re traveling with young kids, I suggest visiting first thing in the morning or right after lunch time. Tickets start at $34 for adults for adults, $32 for seniors, and $28 for children 6-12. Kids five and under are free.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

GETTING THROUGH SECURITY

2 – All guests must pass through a quick security screening so this is not the day to break out your studded jeans and complicated belts. Be sure to check this list of prohibited items before you go as food and beverages, some strollers and camera equipment, large bags and other items are not allowed. All electronics, bags and metal objects will be scanned in bins while guests walk through metal detectors (no need to remove shoes). Once past security, a large LED screen shows how many visitors have been through that day and also since it’s opening. From there you can watch some short videos about the construction of the tower or continue on to the “sky pod” elevators.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

RIDING TO THE TOP – THE SKY POD ELEVATORS

3 – The “Sky Pod” elevators are super fast (47 seconds!) but you won’t want to miss the video that projects NYC being built (and rebuilt) all around you in an amazing time-lapse animation as you travel to the 102nd floor. You can see the complete video here. Be sure little kids are near the walls for best viewing and to warn them that their ears might pop during the ride. If you are prone to motion sickness, you might need a Dramamine.

ONCE AT THE TOP

4 – The first stop is the the See Forever Theater, a long room where a two-minute “Welcome to New York” video greets guests. When the video ends, the “screen” disappears to reveal the spectacular view so get ready to say “wow” out loud. From there, guests head to the 101st floor which features dining options and souvenir photos. Food and drinks are not allowed (except for water) and the dining options are crazy expensive so plan to eat before or after if you can. If you do need to buy an overpriced hot pretzel so your kids will not whine for an hour, I’m not here to judge.

Stunning NYC views atop One World Trade Center.

The 100th floor is where you’ll find the gorgeous 360-degree views so get your cameras ready although glass reflections and lighting are challenging. Be sure to visit the two observatory presentations which showcase information about the city, landmarks and activities.

Visitors can learn all about New York City at One World Observatory.

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center, Sky Portal, Globetrotting Mommy

Don’t miss the Sky Portal at One World Observatory.

The Sky Portal, a glass paneled circle on the floor is a must see for kids and adults alike. Look below to see live video feeds from outside 1 WTC to simulate the view from 100 stories up in the air. Note – Those are HDTVs under glass so no need to be scared.

Checking out the NYC views at One World Observatory.

The views are just amazing in person, and once you get to the Observatory, you are free to stay as long as you want which is a nice perk. On a clear day, you’ll be able to see up to 50 miles away while spotting iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building as well as several bridges and NYC neighborhoods. Gorgeous views, right?

Top 5 Tips for Visiting One World Trade Center

BACK TO THE BOTTOM

5 – The ride down has a different animated film featuring present day lower Manhattan so be sure to pay attention. Afterwards, be sure to check out the nearby 9/11 memorial which features two fountains representing the north and south towers of the fallen World Trade Center and the new Oculus shopping center.

The nearby Oculus is a must see.

Have you visited One World Trade Center? Tell me your favorite memory in the comments.

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The Rockettes New York …

July 5, 2016 By admin

Seeing the Rockettes perform at Radio City Music Hall is one of my favorite New York City winter activities. Watching their synchronized dancing, fighting the Rock Center crowds and seeing the iconic Christmas tree just never gets old.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Awesome Summer Fun for Families

When my daughter saw a poster for The New York Spectacular, the Rockettes’ summer show, she immediately begged to go and I secretly cringed inside. My expectations were low but I figured it would be a fun outing to celebrate the end of the school year. I invited my mom to join us and planned a big NYC girl’s day to kick off summer.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Awesome Summer Fun for Families

It turns out, the New York Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes was indeed spectacular! In fact, all three of us thought it was better than the Christmas show. I was pleasantly surprised to see how family friendly the story line was but what was most impressive were the amazing sets, cool technology, fun music and the choreographed dance moves that really made New York City come alive on stage.

The show follows two kids who accidentally get lost from their parents. The kids make their way around the city’s popular sights and attractions until the family is finally reunited at the end. Its a great sightseeing tour of NYC, as they visit the Empire State Building, Wall Street, Central Park, Times Square, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Fashion Avenue and other popular sights.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular - Awesome Summer Fun for Families

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – The Met comes alive on stage.

Along the way, famous statues and artwork come alive as the kids search for clues to find their parents.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Alice in Wonderland statue from Central Park.

The show opens with Taylor Swifts’s “Welcome to New York” and closes with Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York.” In between, the acts feature a mix of classic show tunes and modern music as well as an interactive scene that gets everyone dancing in the aisles. Some of my favorite musical scenes were the Rockettes tap dancing to “Singing in the Rain, dancing to “Money, Money,” surrounded by giant dollar signs and projections of stock-market tickers” and prancing around in a stunning red, white and black fashion show set to Madonna’s “Vogue.”

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Singing in the Rain.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Money, Money.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – The Vogue fashion show was amazing.

Kids will have no trouble following along with the story line and they will especially love seeing Central Park’s Alice in Wonderland statue come alive and watching the famed New York Public Library lions Patience and Fortitude perform a rap number. Its a little hokey but it all works.

The Rockettes New York Spectacular – Outside the New York Public Library

And of course the grand finale stole the show…

If you want to escape the heat and see NYC from the comfort of Radio City Music Hall, head over to the New York Spectacular before it ends on August, 7, 2016. There is no intermission during the 90 minute show so plan snacks and bathroom breaks accordingly.

Have you seen a Rockettes show? Tell me below in the comments.

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Exploring Central Park With …

March 2, 2016 By admin

Spring has finally sprung here in NYC and that means its time to go play outside! One of my favorite spots for families with kids of all ages is Central Park and springtime is one of the best times to plan a visit.

Exploring Central Park With Kids

Exploring Central Park with kids is especially fun when the park is in full bloom. After our long dreary winters, it is a treat to see green grass and colorful flowers and kids will love running around taking in all the fresh air and expansive lawns.

Pack a picnic, grab a frisbee and plan to spend a few hours (or a whole day) exploring Central Park. Here are some of my favorite springtime activities for families:

Visit one of the many playgrounds
Climb a statue or two (Alice in Wonderland is my fave)
Stop at the Central Park Zoo (and Children’s Zoo)
Take a spin on the Central Park Carousel
Go fly a kite
Visit Victorian Gardens (opening Memorial Day weekend!)
Get your caricature done
Visit Bethesda Fountain
Rent a row boat
Race boats at Conservatory Water
Check out a story time
Stop for lunch at the Loeb Boathouse
See a free Shakespeare in the Park performance (starting in May)

Check out my Tips for Central Park with Kids in Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall story on TravelMamas.com for more details and be sure to visit the Central Park event calendar before you visit.

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TICKETS AND PRICING AT ONE WORLD TRADE CENTER

GETTING THROUGH SECURITY

RIDING TO THE TOP – THE SKY POD ELEVATORS

ONCE AT THE TOP

BACK TO THE BOTTOM

The Rockettes New York …

Exploring Central Park With …

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One World Trade Center.

The High Line, Chelsea.

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WHERE TO GO? CROWN VERSES PEDESTAL AND GROUNDS

STATUE OF LIBERTY TIPS – WHAT TO BRING

GRAB A FREE AUDIO TOUR

DON’T MISS THE MUSEUM AND JUNIOR RANGER PROGRAM

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Best New York City Shows For Little Kids (Preschool to early elementary)

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Best Off-Broadway Shows For Kids 5 and Up

Best New York City Shows For Tweens and Teens

Extra Resources for New York City Theater Lovers

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TICKETS AND PRICING AT ONE WORLD TRADE CENTER

GETTING THROUGH SECURITY

RIDING TO THE TOP – THE SKY POD ELEVATORS

ONCE AT THE TOP

BACK TO THE BOTTOM

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