3 Day Itinerary NYC: Our Big Apple Adventure!

If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing New York City through your kids’ eyes, this is your sign to book the trip—there’s truly nothing like it. Last year, we packed up our bags, hopped on a flight to LaGuardia, and took our girls to the city that never sleeps for the very first time. Here’s our unforgettable three-day itinerary, perfect for families looking to hit the highlights, soak in the culture, and make lifelong memories—without burning out.

Day 1: Times Square, Carbone & Broadway’s Best

Where We Stayed: Times Square

We stayed right in the middle of the action. Was it chaotic? Yes. Was it 100% worth it for first-timers? Absolutely.

Dinner: Carbone

An iconic NYC restaurant with major old-school Italian vibes. The kids felt fancy, and the spicy rigatoni lived up to the hype.

Evening: Wicked on Broadway

A must-see! The music, the costumes, the flying monkeys—our girls were spellbound.

Day 2: Statue of Liberty, Slime & Street Adventures

Breakfast: Quick Bite at McDonald’s

Easy, familiar, and fast before a big day.

Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

We grabbed a cab downtown to hop on the ferry to Liberty Island. The girls participated in the Junior Ranger Program and earned honorary ranger pins—such a thoughtful and educational touch. On our way back, we explored Ellis Island, which was especially meaningful because my husband’s family immigrated through there. Walking the halls they may have walked generations ago made the experience feel deeply personal.

Midday: Battery Park & SeaGlass Carousel

After the ferry, we relaxed at Battery Park, let the girls run around, and rode the beautiful SeaGlass Carousel.

Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial & Sloomoo Institute

We visited the 9/11 Memorial for a moment of quiet reflection, then let the kids bounce back with all things gooey and fun at the Sloomoo Slime Museum. A perfect balance of learning and play.

Evening: Dinner in Chinatown + Little Italy Stroll

We ended the night with dumplings and noodles in Chinatown, followed by a slow stroll through Little Italy. We went to Milk bar to try the cereal ice cream…not our favorite.

Day 3: Central Park, Skyline Views & Pizza Perfection

Breakfast: Broad Nosh Bagels

A great local bagel spot—crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, just like a real NYC bagel should be.

Morning: Central Park Puppet Show & Playground Time

We spent the morning in Central Park, starting with a charming puppet show. Then it was free play: swings, rocks, and exploring until the kids were happily worn out.

Lunch: Tavern on the Green

This iconic Central Park restaurant felt like a mini retreat in the middle of the city. The food, the ambiance—everything hit just right.

Afternoon: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

One of the most exciting views in the city. With mirrored floors and sky-high glass walls, it felt like we were walking on air. A surreal and stunning experience.

Dinner: Joe’s Pizza (Times Square)

Classic, quick, and satisfying. We ordered online to skip the line and enjoyed it right in the buzz of Times Square.

Bonus Morning: TV Time & Toy Store Dreams

The TODAY Show at Rockefeller Plaza

We got up bright and early and made it on camera during the TODAY Show taping! The girls were thrilled to meet some of their favorite hosts—and we got some great memories (and screen grabs) to take home.

FAO Schwarz & American Girl

Before heading out, we let the girls explore two NYC icons: FAO Schwarz and the American Girl store.

Lunch: Nobu

We wrapped the trip with a delicious, grown-up lunch at Nobu—a little treat for the parents before heading to the airport.

Final Thoughts:

New York with kids is nonstop, energizing, and unforgettable. From ferry rides and Broadway shows to slime museums and skyline views, this trip checked all the boxes—and then some. Would we do it again? In a heartbeat.

Have questions about planning your own NYC family adventure? Drop them in the comments—I’d love to help!