Curator’s statement
In my family, we started the tradition of celebrating our boys’ 10th birthdays with a special trip—just for them. For my oldest son, there was no question where he wanted to go: New York City, with a Yankees game at the heart of the adventure. It was his very first visit to NYC, so we set out to do all the quintessential “first-time” experiences, from the Empire State Building to strolling Central Park. What made it even more memorable was pairing the game with a Yankees Stadium tour, giving him a whole day of baseball magic before cheering on his team. Between iconic sights, unforgettable birthday moments, and a few sweet treats, this trip was the perfect blend of a milestone celebration and a classic New York adventure.
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Things to do in New York City
Catch a Yankees game at Yankee Stadium
The ultimate birthday centerpiece: cheering on the Yankees in the Bronx. From walking through Monument Park and browsing the Yankees Museum to grabbing ballpark hot dogs and joining in the chants of the crowd, the whole experience was amazing. The highlight for us? Seeing our son’s name and age splashed across the jumbo screen in a birthday shout-out. A memory that definitely made the day unforgettable!
Take the Yankee Stadium tour
For the full Yankees experience, pair your game day with a behind-the-scenes stadium tour. We were able to watch batting practice before the game and my boys even got Gerrit Cole’s autograph! It’s the kind of insider access that makes cheering from the stands later feel even more special—especially for kids who dream of being on the field one day.
Empire State Building
A classic for a reason. Riding the elevator up and stepping out onto the observation deck is a pinch-me moment for kids and parents alike. Our son felt like he was on top of the world and we got some great photo ops. Added bonus that he’s a fan of the movie Elf, so it was exciting to finally see the building in person!
American Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, giant whales, glittering gems—this museum is full of discovery. Kids are mesmerized by the sheer scale of the exhibits, and parents appreciate the mix of fun and learning. It’s an easy way to spend a few hours while letting imaginations run wild. We’re also big fans of the Night at the Museum movies, so what’s not to love about a visit here?!
Central Park
After the buzz of the city, Central Park is a breath of fresh air. Wide-open lawns for running, playgrounds for climbing, and shady paths for wandering make it a perfect spot to recharge. We strolled, people-watched, and even spotted a few street performers, which kept the kids entertained.
Times Square
Even though Times Square can be overwhelming, it’s still a must-see for a first-time visit to NYC. Our boys took in the sensory overload but definitely didn’t need to spend too much time there. Great for a photo op and then we were on our way. It can be fun in the evening when the neon glow makes everything feel magical.
FAO Schwarz & Rockefeller Plaza
No first trip to NYC is complete without a visit to FAO Schwarz, the legendary toy store where kids can try the giant piano and explore endless aisles of fun. Just outside, you can wander Rockefeller Plaza, which feels alive with the bustle of the city and gives families a great snapshot of Midtown Manhattan. We sat down, grabbed some refreshments, and enjoyed a little people-watching for a mid-afternoon break.
Late-night dessert at Venchi Chocolate & Gelato
Because birthdays deserve extra treats! After a full day, we stopped into Venchi for decadent gelato, then ambled the city streets back to our hotel. The night ended perfectly with board games and laughter in our room—a cozy family tradition that balanced the big city buzz with simple birthday fun.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
Joe’s Pizza (Midtown)
A NYC staple serving giant, foldable slices—the kind kids think is hilarious and parents secretly love just as much. It’s casual, fast, and delicious.
Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
Classic burgers, crinkle fries, and milkshakes with a side of city-park ambience. The original Shake Shack location is a fun stop for families.
Levain Bakery
Cookies the size of baseballs—need I say more? Warm, gooey, and shareable (though no one really wants to share), they’re the ultimate sweet snack.
Eataly (Flatiron)
An Italian market-meets-food hall with everything from pizza to gelato. Kids love wandering the aisles, and parents appreciate a chance for a sit-down meal in a lively space.
Ballpark eats at Yankee Stadium
No Yankees trip is complete without trying the stadium classics—hot dogs, pretzels, and maybe even a souvenir soda cup. Food tastes better with the roar of the crowd around you.
Bryant Park pop-ups & bakeries
Found around Bryant Park, these seasonal kiosks and cafés offer everything from baked goods to sandwiches. We stumbled on a bakery stall serving warm pastries, which made for a fun, casual stop before letting the kids run around the park’s open green.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Known for over-the-top “Crazy Shakes” piled high with sprinkles, cookies, and candy, this spot is part meal, part birthday treat. The burgers are delicious too, but it’s the shakes that kids will talk about long after the trip.
Ellen’s Stardust Diner (Times Square)
A classic New York experience where the waitstaff belt out Broadway tunes between serving milkshakes and burgers. It’s lively, theatrical, and unforgettable—perfect for kids who love music and families looking for a fun dinner show without theater tickets.
Need to know
Tickets and timing: Yankees games sell quickly, especially in summer—book early and look for family-friendly seating sections.
Birthday magic: If you’re celebrating a milestone, request a scoreboard shout-out for your child—seeing their name on the jumbo screen is pure joy and worth the extra planning.
Yankees extras: For the full Bronx experience, combine the Yankee Stadium tour with a game. Arrive early to also explore Monument Park and the Yankees Museum, both included with admission.
Getting around: The subway is the fastest (and most affordable) way to zip between boroughs. Kids often find it part of the adventure.
Pacing: NYC can be overwhelming, so balance big sights with downtime in parks or easy meals. Bryant Park, for example, is perfect for grabbing a snack and letting kids run around between attractions.
Family-friendly meals: Make dining fun by mixing in pop-ups, themed spots and bakeries alongside sit-down restaurants. Whether it’s singing waiters at Ellen’s Stardust Diner or giant cookies at Levain, keeping meals playful helps avoid mid-trip meltdowns.
Inspired to plan your own Yankees birthday trip? Or maybe another milestone adventure in NYC or a different baseball-loving city? Reach out to me and I’ll help design a customized getaway full of baseball, big city fun, and family memories.
Travel Advisor
Ashley Whipple
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