Traveling with Kids in New York City
When it is time for a family vacation and you are headed to New York, there are certain things that you should know. Firstly, the hotel that you book should be kid friendly. There are many that have children activities and have spacious rooms so everyone can move around freely.
On your trip, it is a good idea to dress kids in loud colors so they are more visible. Don't take drawstring clothing and don't mind strapping your toddlers in busy places such as attractions and airports. While in a car, keep baggage in the trunk to prevent injury in case of a sudden stop. If your kids are under 9, always hold their hands in public places and in case they need to use the wash room, supervise them. Older kids must always tell you where they are going and make sure they have the hotel information with them.
On your museum crawl, your kids are most likely to be bored to tears by turn-of-the-century paintings and artifacts. Manhattan offers some nice kid destinations such as the two children's museums, where they can have a great time shouting, cavorting and splashing. On 182 Lafayette Street, at Children's Museum of the Arts (212-941-9198; 212-274-0986) www.cmany.org, your 1-12 year old can make puppets and learn computer drawing, or join in live performances. At Children's Museum of Manhattan (212-721-1234) www.cmom.org kids (2-12 years) will enjoy watching plastic boats flow down pipes apart from other things. Great treat for kids after your frequent "Do not touch" command, which is customary on trips.
If you are planning to stay for long, book a hotel that has a kitchen or kitchenette. This way you can cook healthy meals for your family and save money for other things. If your children are really young, you should look for a place that offers cribs, cots and children meals. At the Novotel New York - Times Square your kids under 16 can stay and eat free with you. The Children's Play corner can keep them busy. Welcome gifts, babysitting services, cribs and cots, in-room video games and movies make this is a desirable spot for a family stay. At the Doubletree Metropolitan Hotel on Lexington Avenue, kids 14 and under will like their free stay. The welcome package for kids under 10 consists of toys and games. Cribs, cots, kid meals and diapers are also available.