My family will be visiting late June and would love to go to New York City. I was thinking for the day or just one night in order to see more . My Granddaughter is only 7 so little ones tire easily. I am wondering if a structured tour would not be adivisable? I know they want to see the WTC memorial, Statue or Liberty battery park etc. and for sure the empire state building. any suggestiong? Also are there any plays suitable for children? Thanks.

A structured tour would not be advisable because little ones get bored easily. However, a cruise that gets closer to the Statue of Liberty that costs money may or may not be a better choice for the view of the Statue. Way too much waiting in line to actually go to visit Liberty Island (actually that isn't opening until July so forget I just said that). The best view of the Empire State Building is actually from The Top of the Rock during the day when you can actually see Central Park. Park time and the kid centric zoo or children's museum or playgrounds where she can also encounter kids her own age are also great options.

My favorite kids theater TADA will not be having a show then. Others will chime in about other children's theater.

thestarryeye.typepad.com/explorenyc

The week before you go check out the website of the the local 24 hour news channel - ny1.com. They list the kids activities for each weekend - theater, puppet shows, dance, etc - aimed specifically at little kids.

Other don;t misses:

The Museum of Natural History - focus on dinos (this is the classic 2nd grade trip for NYC school kids)

Central Park zoo with kids zoo (consider lunch in the Boathouse)

Staten Island ferry ride (decent views of Statue of Liberty and great views of the skyline on the way back)

Check out playbill.com to see what kids shows are playing and get discount tickets in advance

I spent a week in NYC with my kids- age 6 and 4- last fall. We saw Annie and The Lion King. I'd recommend both. I also heard Mary Poppins was good for children.

I believe Mary Poppins has or is about to close. Lion King doesn't discount and tickets should be bought as far in advance as possible - if you feel the child is ready for a full-length show.

Thanks for your replies. Yes the Lion King even I have not seen thatttt--I would guess the Music would be great as well. I was really thinking of staying one night, but check in is not till 3 in most places. Not that convenient given we will take the train from PHL. I think I will nix that idea. The Zoo we have done many times. The Natural Museum is a great idea. She loves dino's and often tells me "you don't know your dinos Grandma." (quite indignant I might add LOL.) Who knows maybe I will learn something as well. Thanks.

Check in time doesn;t matter - you can drop luggage at any hotel you picl as soon as you arrive and they will hold it until you do check in.

Frankly I think an overnight is a great idea - since a 7 year old is likely to do better with some time/space for a rest before going to a show - than pushing along all day.

Yes I so agree. What do you think about the Sheraton times square? It seems to get good reviews. I must think about a hotel now. I want a good area where we have a good acess to the sites. Thanks.