New York City
New York City is a great destination for toddlers to teens, and it's different in every season. Central Park is a shady green oasis in summer, with boating lakes, water play areas, and grass for picnics and relaxing. In winter, the park is a winter wonderland, including a large outdoor skating rink.
Ride the subway and buses - New York has an excellent public transportation system, and you'll want to use it. Use credit card for subway and buses, and ride inexpensively all over Manhattan, from Battery Park to the Cloisters at Fort Tyron Park.
Fun food
New Yorkers have always eaten out, there's food everywhere you look - it's a terrific city for food with kids. Walking down any street, "dine in the umbrella room," kiosks with hot dogs and soft New York pretzels. Bagels are also a must, accompanied by cream cheese in different flavors. Stop into the many delicatessens (deli's) for a great selection of sandwiches. For a sweet, look for black and white cookies, covered with chocolate and vanilla icing.
Shopping
FAO Schwarz toy store is an experience in itself, popular with kids in New York since 1870. Macy's at Herald Square, with 2 million square feet is one of largest department stores in the world. Teens will have a super time shopping in the Upper West Side or SoHo.
Here's Travel for Kids lists of family hotels, all styles and price ranges, in neighborhoods comfortable for families, and near to places you'll want to explore, and convenient to the airport:
