Top 10 Getaway for Family Travelers - New York City, New York

FTF honored New York, New York with a Top 10 award as one of the best places for a family getaway in 2002.

New York, New York
New York, New York's a wonderful town
The Bronx is up and the Battery's down
The people ride in a hole in the ground
New York, New York

Since September 11th, New York City, already beloved by sightseers, shoppers and culture lovers, has become the global capital of heroism, resilience, altruism and patriotism; values that parents, with an increased interest in family-together activities and educational adventures, are eager to share with their children. There's never been any place like it, and now, more than ever, kids want to take a taste of the Big Apple.

The city's major family attractions, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty (visible at no cost from the Staten Island Ferry or with the guided Circle Line Ferry) have become icons for America's renewed spirit. And, despite its reputation for being frightfully expensive, the city is also a budget-watchers' destination because of its ongoing free entertainment: holiday parades, Central Park concerts, TV tapings, Bryant Park outdoor movies, Times Square street performers and free days and evening concerts at art museums. You can even afford to share the thrill of a Broadway musical (half-price tickets are available for same day performances at two "TKTS" booths) or cutting-edge Off-Broadway shows with your kids. 

Pack your most comfortable walking shoes and take a tour of Radio City or the United Nations. You can also tour Madison Square Garden and then buy tickets to see the Knicks or the Rangers play. If baseball is your favorite game, Yankee and Shea Stadium are easily reached by subway. Contact the South Street Seaport ticket booth ( 212/732-7678) for a schedule of events in lower Manhattan.  After you've visited dinosaurs and other gems at the world-famous museums, parks and variety of zoos, join the people-watching and exploring (plus tasting) of New York's many fascinating ethnic neighborhoods, a favorite activity of visitors and natives. 

The city is serviced by frequent, inexpensive flights, but families may also consider it a drive-to destination, where inexpensive long-term parking is available at Newark Airport's Skypark. New York's public transportation remains unrivalled anywhere in the world for its excitement, reliability, and cost. In addition, guided double-decker bus, pedicab, horsedrawn carriage, ferry and walking tours are widely available.

Family-friendly midtown hotels include the chic Parker Meridien (212/245-5000; www.lemeridien-hotels.com), with a gorgeous rooftop enclosed pool. They offer luxurious accommodations and service at the Excelsior Hotel (212/362-9200, www.excelsiorhotelny.com), which is across the street from the Museum of Natural History, all-suite accommodations in renovated apartment buildings, and even a few family-friendly hostels. For more information, and seasonal packages and promotions, families can contact NYC & Company (800-692-4843) or visit www.nycvisit.com.