Fall and winter are wonderful times to experience New York City as a family. Whether you and your children are from the area, visiting relatives or simply out for a great vacation, the “city that never sleeps” has something for everyone. Let kids enjoy this day with a mixture of active and educational pursuits, as well as a little time built in for Mom and Dad to do a little holiday shopping. Don’t forget the hot cocoa!

This quintessential New York experience is world famous and instantly recognizable. Skate the famous ice in front of “30 Rock,” the home of famous NBC television shows and one of the world’s best known and impressive Christmas Trees (if you come after November 28th 2014). Skating is on a first come, first serve basis and it does get crowded. If you want to ensure a spot, for a little extra you can reserve ice time through either the VIP Skate or First Skate packages. “First Skate” allows you in at 7Am before the ice is open to the public and includes a hot beverage to get your day going.

New York City and The Holiday Season

After you get tired enough to hang up your skates, spend a little more time in famous Rockefeller Center and enjoy the spirit of the season. Through fall and winter this is a fabulous part of New York City as it is always full of pre-holiday cheer. Grab a bite in one of many great restaurants and do a little holiday or souvenir shopping. There are a variety of fun stores for kids featuring games and toys, as well as a selection of upscale and mid range boutiques for adults. Pop in for the unique experience of the NBC Experience Store and you might just catch a glimpse of someone famous. Also be sure to check out the current special offers and sales for “Rock Center.”

From the amazing dinosaur skeletons in the front hall (and throughout the building) to a life sized whale and a comprehensive history of our planet laid out before your eyes, the American Museum of Natural history has it all. This impressive collection is sure to excite the minds and imaginations of children and teens of all ages. Depending on specific interests, a variety of special and permanent exhibits may hold the highest appeal. For an extra $5 there is a terrific Planetarium, and for another fee there is an IMAX theater. Check out the interactive floor plan to help map out what you plan to visit beforehand and make the most of your time.

A Fun Addition To Any NYC Day:

Families visiting New York may also want to stop by world famous Times Square for a special treat. While this has always been one of New York’s most awe inspiring sights for visitors, there is a new draw that has been said to have tourists’ “jaws actually dropping.” A new digital billboard spanning an entire city block, on Broadway from 45th to 46th street, will amaze families as they enjoy what over 24 million LED pixels looks like displaying everything from digital art to advertising. We recommend a quick stop (or drive) by to enjoy this epic and free viewing opportunity.

Interested in booking or planning a vacation to New York City right now? Check out some of the amazing offers currently available for airfare and hotels at Kayak, Orbitz and Priceline. See more lodging options at Hotels.com and Hilton. Get started on your next trip today!