Curator’s statement
Seeing a Broadway show with kids is one of the most magical ways to experience New York City. For my sons’ 9th and 11th birthdays, the perfect Harry Potter age, we planned a quick NYC weekend centered around seeing Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the Lyric Theatre. By staying right in the Theater District and adding a few kid-friendly stops like FAO Schwarz and Times Square, the trip felt exciting without being overwhelming. If you're planning a Broadway trip with kids, New York City offers the perfect mix of theater, iconic sights, and unforgettable family moments.
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Things to do in New York City with kids
Playing the famous giant piano at FAO Schwarz is a classic Midtown stop when visiting New York City with kids.
See a Broadway show
Broadway is the highlight of this trip. Shows like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, The Lion King, Wicked, and Aladdin are incredible experiences for kids and adults alike. Arrive early to find your seats, admire the theater interior, and flip through the Playbill before the show begins.
Take pre-show photos at the theater & notice the historic interiors
Many Broadway theaters have photo backdrops or banners inside the lobby related to the show. Arriving early gives you time to take photos and soak in the excitement before the crowd settles in. The theaters themselves are part of the experience, with ornate ceilings, detailed architecture, and impressive stage design worth noticing before the curtain rises.
Visit FAO Schwarz
FAO Schwarz feels like a toy theme park for kids. From the giant piano to interactive displays and themed toy sections, it is a perfect pre-show stop and an easy place to spend an hour exploring. Be aware that the toy displays and demonstrators are very good at selling, so visit with restraint or big pockets.
Ride the NYC subway
For kids visiting New York City for the first time, even everyday experiences like riding the subway can feel exciting. Watching the train arrive and standing while holding onto the poles quickly become part of the adventure.
Walk through Times Square
Times Square is sensory overload in the best possible way. The giant screens, bright lights, and constant energy make it feel like stepping into a movie scene, and kids love seeing it in person. Costumed characters wandering the area often offer photos and then request tips, so be prepared to politely say no thank you if you are not interested.
Stop in Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a calm Midtown break just a few blocks from the Theater District. Kids can run around the lawn, ride the carousel, or grab a snack from the kiosks and relax at the café tables before heading to the show.
Explore Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is an easy Midtown stop near FAO Schwarz. Between the plaza, NBC Studios, and surrounding shops, it is a lively place to wander before heading back toward the Theater District.
Places to eat & drink in New York City with kids
Celebrating a Broadway birthday dinner at Planet Hollywood after the show.
Pink Taco
Located near Times Square, Pink Taco was a great casual dinner option before heading back to the hotel. The food was tasty, the atmosphere was lively, and it was easy to grab a table without a long wait.
Planet Hollywood
Planet Hollywood is a fun and energetic place to celebrate after a Broadway show. The giant screens, movie memorabilia, and upbeat atmosphere make it especially exciting for kids.
Ellen's Stardust Diner
A Broadway classic where servers perform show tunes while serving diner food. It’s a memorable experience for theater-loving families, though reservations are not accepted, and lines can sometimes be long.
Junior's Restaurant
Junior’s is famous for its cheesecake and classic New York comfort food. It’s a great option for dessert or a casual meal near the Theater District.
Joe's Pizza
Sometimes the perfect New York meal is simply a slice of pizza. Joe’s is a classic NYC spot for a quick and satisfying bite before or after a show.
Need to know
If you're taking kids to Broadway, arrive early so you have time to settle into your seats and take a bathroom break before the show begins. Intermission lines form quickly, so planning ahead helps avoid long waits. Some theaters also offer intermission concessions delivered directly to your seat, but these must be ordered before the show starts. Arriving early gives you time to get the lay of the land.
Matinee performances are especially great for families. Kids can eat lunch beforehand, enjoy the show on a full stomach, and then celebrate with dinner afterward.
When choosing seats, aisle seats or front-row balcony seats often work well for kids because they provide a clear view and allow easy access if someone needs to step out. Some theaters also have booster seats available, which helped my kids see the stage more easily.
If you're traveling with younger siblings who may not be ready for a long theater performance, consider hiring a hotel babysitting service so older kids can fully enjoy the Broadway experience. We did this and it was a game changer. Being able to enjoy the show and dinner afterward with just our big kids felt really special.
For a theater-focused trip, staying in Times Square or the Theater District makes the experience much easier. Being able to walk to the theater and back to your hotel after the show is incredibly convenient.
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Megan Blake
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