A trip to the Big Apple can be pretty daunting if you have small children in tow. Showing your kids the sites of one of America’s most famous cities can be great for your children’s imaginations and for both you and your partner. However, in a city where the cab drivers are famously opinionated and the crowds are large, what’s the best way to keep your trip to New York as family friendly as possible?

Stay in a family-friendly hotel

New York has an abundance of hotels on offer, and all at differing rates of affordability. However, it’s best not to choose one that’s more at home with business clientele than small children. Trawling through sites such as Trip Advisor and other review sites to check the reviews section should give some hint as to the level of customer service the hotel is offering, particularly in their ‘Family Friendly’ sections. You want a reception desk that understands the struggle of wedging a buggy in a lift, not one that hasn’t the faintest clue. If you’re looking to have the trip of a lifetime, then discovering a New York private jet cost might even be on your cards for a seamless journey.

Make a sensible checklist

For most of your trip you will be on foot, hopping in cabs and taking the subway to all the various attractions at your doorstep. To ensure that you actually enjoy your time in New York instead of spending it fretting and being anxious, you should compile a checklist of all the necessary items you will need. Remember: reserve your best clothes for the odd evening out, New York in uncomfortable clothing can make for a long day out for everyone.

  • Give your children IDs with your mobile numbers on them
  • Pack at least one pair of sensible shoes
  • All your necessary medicines (including small things like plasters and pain-killers)
  • Bottles of water

Keep your attractions entertaining

While an exhibit on the best photographers in the last 100 years might be entertaining for you and your partner, you small children might lose interest and become irritable pretty quickly. Choosing attractions that have a wide appeal will keep everyone happy and talking about it over dinner. Here are some of the best places to keep everyone entertained in New York:

Taking your children for dinner afterwards shouldn’t be a problem. New Yorkers are passionate about their food, and you’ll find cuisines from every corner of the globe here. Just make sure the restaurant you choose is child-friendly and has a children’s menu – that way everyone’s catered for.

While you may have your reservations about taking the kids to New York on holiday, it’s a city that never fails to impress and dazzle, regardless of your age. Taking the necessary precautions beforehand will ensure that your trip away is anxiety-free and that your children enjoy it just as much as you do.