nibos

I'm trying to sell my family on a week in New York in July vs. a week hiking in Colorado. We're from Wisconsin (no jokes) but spend a lot of time in Chicago. I know the kids would love Ellis Island, shopping (13 y.o. girl), the Museum of Natural History (10 y.o. boy), walking around (to a point!) and eating fun new foods - but what other suggestions do you have that might appeal to both of them? My husband has relatives in the Catskills (still!) and we may head there for a day or two. Does it make sense to rent a car to do that? I booked the Doubletree already - and I've scoured this forum - but wondered if you had any other advice for us! Thanks!

bennnie

This family of 4 loves NY but I'm not sure a week would be tolerated. Definately combine the trip to the city with something out - the Catskills sounds like a good idea. We head for the Hamptons but that's because of family.

I would recommend Ellis Island, dim sum in Chinatown, Rockefellar Center, Times Square. Central Park is great. Maybe tea at the Plaza or a Yankees game.

The Met would be great for kids this age - there are some very interesting displays of armour, Native American artifacts, art from Pacific cultures - in addition to the paintings etc. One of the most memorable paintings was Washington Crossing the Delaware. We've all seen the painting in our history books but boy when you see it in person it really is amazing. I had no idea that it was hanging and the Met and I turned a corner and there it was. Its huge! Even teenagers would be impressed.

Travelkitty

A few days in the Catskills would be a nice change of pace, and if you go I would definitely drive - you'll want a car when you are there.

The prior suggestions are good, and I'd also recommend taking in a show, maybe something off broadway which would be a smaller audience and often less formal. I'd also suggest the view from the Empire State Building - it really is amazing.

You could do the Circle line boat tour of Manhattan, or for a cheaper and quicker alternative, take the Staten Island Ferry. It's kind of corny, but my guests always enjoy it. (you could do that in the morning and head to Chinatown for lunch).

Your son would probably enjoy the Intrepid Sea and Air Museum. My nephew is about his age and loved it.

4khansen

The last two summers we have spent 10 days in the great state of NY, first summer in upstate NY/Montreal/Toronto/Niagara Falls -- basically circling Lake Ontario and then to Lake Placid area.

Then last summer six days in NYC. Both were excellent adventures and have lots to do and enjoyable for kids your ages. With just one week I would either do one of the other. otherwise you end up spending too much time traveling, . . . just my opinion -- I would rather have quality time in one place and not try to spread too thin.

Both are fantastic though, whichever one you choose it will be great! I was sooo impressed with the city and the rest of NY.

By the way midwesterners here too, Iowa!

placeu2

I am a Cheesehead originally and still am at heart.

Sorry, gotta vote for the Colorado idea. If you visit Chicago (my current home area) you get plenty of city.

That's just me of course........

adisim

I'm in New York and would jump at a chance to hike in Colorado (where I've spent several vacations) but if you combine city and country it could be great. I would probably spend 3 or 4 days in the city and the rest in the country (northern hudson valley, catskills, maybe new palz area-- combination of hiking, mansions)-- Spend a day in central park-- hike through the park, walk through the gardens, go boating on the lake. Divide one day between ellis island/battery park and shopping in soho and the east village. Try kayaking on the hudson either in lower manhattan or around riverside park in the 70's. You can take the nbc tour at rockefeller center, go to the top of the empire state building and go to the museum of natural history-- especially good if it is really hot and smoggy.

Susan56

If you are from Wisconsin and have never been to NYC, then, despite the size of Chicago, I would still recommend spending a good deal of time in NYC. There is so much to see... some things that are fun for the kids are China Town, Broadway of course, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Statue of Liberty. Of course, just strolling around and taking in the sights is a real treat, as well. Although hiking is a great natural experience... I can't compare anything with the size and wonder of the Big Apple. Enjoy your vacation.