Pips Island Archives - Globetrotting Mommy

New York City has no shortage of opportunities for young theatergoers with Broadway and off-Broadway shows, musical performances, circus acts, puppet theater and more. The Big Apple’s newest show for kids, Pip’s Island, gives kids the chance to take in a show by being part of the cast in a whirlwind interactive performance in Times Square.

Pip’s Island – A Perfect Escape for Young Theater Goers

We checked out the immersive performance in previews and it was just as fun as I remembered their 2016 pop-up show. The new space is permanent so little New Yorkers and tourists will have plenty of time to check out this fun interactive show.

All dressed up and ready to head out to Pip’s Island.

As kids arrive, they are outfitted with “costumes” consisting of explorer vests and legendarium wristbands. The immersive performance starts right away as the park ranger teaches some important dance moves and explains how they are collecting badges or “sparks” to save the island and defeat Joules Volter (aka – the bad guy).

Young explorers (and their assistant explorer adults) are then scooted off on adventure after adventure for the next hour. I don’t want to give too much away but as the cast is introduced as various characters in their unique settings (the sets are outrageous in a good way), the storyline progresses room by room with plenty of special effects and fun. Along the way, kids are participating in various team activities and problem-solving together to save the island. There may have been some bubbles, dancing and conga lines along the way or maybe that was just my imagination. Cameras are not allowed which ensures all attendees are giving the show their full attention.

The recommended age range is 4-10 and there are some dark scenes which may scare younger kids. The staff is wonderful at interacting with the kids and the parents are always within sight while the children participate in group activities.

Get your tickets at PipsIsland.com and get 10% off with code Pip10.

Times Square has a slew of family-friendly attractions and if you want to combine a show with a nearby attraction, Gulliver’s Gate is a great choice.

New York City is one of the most magical places to spend the holidays. While most visitors are busy checking out the bedazzled store windows and ice skating under the big tree, one of my favorite family friendly activities is taking in a great show. This year, I’m sharing some of my favorite holiday picks for everyone on your list. Show tickets make great holiday gift ideas, especially for those people who have it all. Book soon and enjoy because many of these are in town for a limited holiday run…

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season

These shows are all family friendly but I’ve categorized them by family members I think would especially enjoy each one.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Waitress is the perfect feel good Broadway musical for the holiday season.

BFF DATE: Waitress the Musical

Grab your besties and go see this Broadway love story that highlights relationships, friendships and baking. The acting, singing, and choreography are all fabulous and the characters truly come alive on stage. You’ll fall in love with the storyline and show’s heroine as you watch the show’s twists and turns. Best of all, little mini pies are sold at intermission. What more do you need for a night out with the girls?

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – That Golden Girls Show!

SISTER DATE: That Golden Girls Show

If you grew up in the 80’s, That Golden Girls Show will not disappoint. This is the perfect outing to take your sister (aunt, mom or grandma) or invite the whole family. I was wondering if it would be distracting to see a puppet show with the puppeteers on stage but turns out, their unique personalities just added to the adorableness of the show. You’ll laugh at the old jokes and antiquated references and will leave humming the “Thank You For Being a Friend” theme song. This off-broadway show is in the lively Union Square neighborhood so you can check out the famed gift market or farmer’s market before or after. Playing now through December 31, 2016.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Fiddler on the Roof

MOM DATE: Fiddler on the Roof

My mom and I have a tradition of seeing a new Broadway classic every year and this year we saw the newest incarnation of Fiddler on the Roof. The themes in Fiddler on the Roof are timeless, the dancing is AMAZING and the songs will keep you humming for weeks. The show is closing on December 31, 2016 so if you haven’t seen it yet, the holiday season is the perfect chance.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – The Illusionists – Turn of The Century.

HUSBAND DATE: The Illusionists – Turn of the Century

If your husband doesn’t like Broadway musicals (I know, I know), The Illusionists is the perfect Broadway theater date night for the holidays. My husband and I were absolutely amazed by the optical illusions and magical performances that took place in The Palace Theater, the same theater where Harry Houdini once performed. From beds of nails, knife throwing, and card tricks to comedy acts and classic performances (yes they cut a woman in half!), every act was better than the next. Be sure to have some unique things in your purse in case you get called on stage by The Clairvoyants. This is a great family show for ages 6 and up. Now through January 1, 2017.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Peter and The Wolf at The Guggenheim Museum.

COUSINS DATE: Peter and the Wolf at the Guggenheim Museum

I’ve gone to sooooo many kids shows since becoming a mom and some are enjoyable for parents too and some aren’t. Lucky for me, Seeing Peter and The Wolf narrated by Isaac Mizrachi at The Guggenheim Museum was great fun for all. Mizrachi steals the show with his humorous storytelling and each character has their own instrumental pairing so the music really helps kids follow along. This show is a perfect choice to see with cousins and then you can explore the museum afterward. There are three remaining shows on December 9, 10 and 11, 2016.

6 Great NYC Shows for the Holiday Season – Pip’s Island

KIDDIE PLAY DATE: Pip’s Island

I took my daughter and her pal on an after school adventure to Pip’s Island and they gave it a 9 and a 10! I still can’t explain this interactive show but think Willy Wonka meets a magical tree house with snow, bubbles, fog and mystical characters minus the candy. Parents go along too so be warned there is a crazy fast slide and no photos allowed. It’s perfect for kids 5-10 and near Chelsea piers, the High Line and art galleries making it a great weekend adventure. Check it out now through January 8, 2017.

Have you seen any of these shows? Tell me below in the comments.

I received media tickets to some of these shows for review purposes but all opinions are my own. If you don’t want to miss a post, subscribe to Globetrotting Mommy for daily updates!