New York City conjures up many images, the most prominent being the tall skyscrapers and sprawling Central Park. The city is a magnet for tourists with its attractions and delights. There’s something for everyone here, so it’s no surprise that families visit the city regularly. There are plenty of family hotels in New York City, but the best family hotels in NYC will set you back quite a bit. Most of them are top-class five-star hotels that offer a wide range of kids’ amenities. That’s not to say you won’t find affordable family hotels in New York City; you’ll just have to look a little harder.
The best family hotels in NYC have special packages for kids that include welcome gifts, camp-ins, and special menus. Many of these family hotels in New York City are close to the main attractions such as Central Park, Bronx Zoo, and other must-see attractions in NYC.
Table of contents
- Gardens Suites Hotel by Affinia
- Hotel Beacon
- TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South
- Kimpton Hotel Eventi
- Lotte New York Palace
- The Plaza
- Shelburne Hotel & Suites by Affinia
- Loews Regency
- The Pierre
- The Peninsula
- The Ritz Carlton Central Park
- Where to Stay in New York City
- Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in NYC
- Recommended Family Activities in NYC
Gardens Suites Hotel by Affinia
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If you’re in town with your family for a more extended stay, you’ll probably want bigger accommodation, and that’s what Gardens Suites Hotel by Affinia provides. Apart from the kid-oriented amenities available at the hotel, the location is also a bonus. Situated in the quiet Upper East Side, the location is not only safe but close to many kid-friendly attractions. Within walking distance, you’ll find Central Park Zoo, Dylan’s Candy Bar, and the famous dessert restaurant Serendipity 3. This is also one of the more affordable family hotels in New York City and one of the best hotels in the Upper East Side.
Gardens Suites is a great family hotel because it has a unique Affinia Junior program. It’s all about making your kids happy when they’re here. You can look forward to family board games, a sports pack full of goodies, etc. Besides this, you can go a step further in making this a memorable trip by booking the Affinia Starry Night Camp-In experience.
You can look forward to spacious, one- or two-bedroom suites when it comes to accommodation. Full kitchens, large living spaces, and comfortable beds make these rooms perfect for families with kids. If you have a four-legged family member, you can bring it along, too, as the hotel is pet-friendly. While the hotel does not have an onsite restaurant, you can avail of room service. Additionally, Fresh Direct grocery kits are available for purchase.
Hotel Beacon
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When it opened in 1929, the beaux-arts style Hotel Beacon towered above all other buildings in this Upper West Side neighborhood. However, it wasn’t the height of the building that was most talked about, but the beacon on its roof. A few years after its christening, a new ruling in the city forced the hotel to turn out the lights, but the name stuck. Though the lights may have dimmed, the hotel still stands out on many fronts.
Its location at the corner of Broadway and W 75th puts you close to many attractions. What makes Hotel Beacon one of the best family hotels in NYC is the spacious accommodation. It’s one of the few hotels in Manhattan to offer so much space. Rooms come with fully -equipped kitchenettes complete with stoves, refrigerators, and coffee makers. The best part, the hotel will not burn a hole in your pocket. That’s one reason why it’s one of the more affordable family hotels in New York City.
You won’t find too many amenities outside the rooms and no special kids program, but the comfort in the rooms is quite unparalleled. The hotel does have a small fitness center, an airline-access kiosk in the lobby, and a stylish bar.
TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South
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Affordable family hotels in New York City don’t have as much space as TRYP by Wyndham Times Square South. With rooms that can accommodate up to eight guests, large families will have all the space they need. Additionally, the in-house restaurant Gastro at 35 is a child-friendly venue with a limited “l’il menu” and its regular tapas selection. Location-wise, the hotel is close to two popular children’s attractions – the Empire State Building and High Line. Bryant Park and Madison Square Garden are also nearby.
While the hotel has more of a corporate feel, a few thoughtful design elements make it more welcoming. Guests have the option of choosing between various rooms types. The select premium rooms are more spacious, with space for up to eight. These rooms come with a separate living area plus two bathrooms. You’ll also find bunk beds or convertible sofas in these rooms. Specialty rooms like the Samsung Experience rooms have a home theater, while the Fitness rooms offer a stationary bike and workout clothes.
The hotel has a well-equipped gym and a rooftop terrace with stunning city views. However, there’s not much else by extras at the hotel.
Kimpton Hotel Eventi
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If you’re in Chelsea and looking for a family hotel in New York City, you could consider the Kimpton Hotel Eventi. The revamped ground floor wows guests with its chic ‘living room’ lobby, encompassing an entire block. Moreover, the hotel has added a collection of cool new bars and restaurants to its repertoire. The Italian-influenced American restaurant L’Amico and The Vine serve up some delectable treats. But this is not what makes it child-friendly.
The Kimpton group embraces kids with its Kimpton Kids program. The kids receive a welcome gift on arrival as part of this program. Bunk beds or cribs in the rooms ensure children will have a good night’s sleep. If you choose to dine at the restaurant, you’ll find a selection of delicious healthy options for youngsters. High chairs and booster seats are at hand for younger kids at the restaurant. Don’t worry about breaking your workout routine, as Hula hoops in the fitness room will keep the young ones busy while you burn those calories. That’s not all. The hotel also has a tie-up with accredited babysitters if you feel like a night out on the town.
Floor-to-ceiling windows in guest rooms look out onto stunning vistas. The rooms stand out for their elegant decor and impressive comfort. The suites are especially nice with a separate living area. Some come with a private walk-out terrace or Jacuzzi tub. All rooms have a good range of standard amenities to enhance comfort.
Lotte New York Palace
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The Lotte New York Palace describes itself as ‘a treasured retreat for family holidays,’ and it doesn’t disappoint. With its ‘Call of the Wild’ package, families get discounted tickets to all five of WCS’s zoos and aquariums. Other goodies with this package include chocolate-covered animal crackers, animal lollies, and a soft animal toy for guests up to 12 years old. Additionally, larger families can also opt for the Family Values Package, where you get 50% off on the next room. All these special touches take the hotel up several notches among the best family hotels in New York.
The iconic hotel, set in a historic built neo-Renaissance mansion, gained prominence when the popular TV show ‘Gossip Girl’ was filmed here. You’ll understand why the hotel is special when you step into the sprawling lobby with its gilded central atrium. However, the more modern part of the hotel, The Towers, feels a little out of sync with the older mansion. Families will undoubtedly appreciate the spacious suites in this part of the hotel, though.
Although many of the dining venues within the hotel are temporarily closed, you can enjoy pastries and treats at Pomme Palais. Alternatively, you can choose to dine in, with room service open from early morning till 11:00 pm. If you manage to find some time for yourself, the spa is an excellent place to unwind.
The Plaza
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On the southern edge of Central Park, you’ll find The Plaza, an epitome of elegance with its historic Beaux-Arts architecture and palatial entrance. Another iconic landmark on the New York skyline, the hotel in Midtown NYC, has been welcoming guests since 1907. Stepping into the Plaza feels like being on the set of a film with luxury oozing from all corners. Guest rooms echo this elegance, featuring tall ceilings and huge windows.
The Plaza stands out among the best family hotels in NYC for its most elusive guest, Eloise, the fictional character introduced to the public in 1955. You could choose to stay in Eloise’s pink-pink room and make reservations for Afternoon Tea in The Palm Court. Designed by celebrated designer Betsey Johnson, the suite has an Eloise-approved palette of pink and black with custom Eloise-themed bedding. It’s all about Eloise at the suite with Weenie dolls and a gift set upon arrival. Apart from this, the hotel also offers a Home Alone 2: Escape to New York package, complete with a limousine tour, pizza, and ice cream sundae.
The Todd English Food Hall is a clear winner with nine different food counters when it comes to dining options. There’s also a restaurant and two bars. The hotel’s other top-class amenities include the Guerlain Spa, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and the Warren Tricomi Salon.
Shelburne Hotel & Suites by Affinia
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Families looking for spacious accommodation will do well to book Shelburne Hotel & Suites by Affinia. Newly renovated rooms and suites highlight the urban lifestyle. They exude ultra comfort with warm, inviting tones. Depending on the size of your family, you can choose from expansive suites, studios, or one and two-bedroom apartments. All rooms come with kitchenettes, ideal for prepping light meals. You can choose to have your room stocked with groceries from FreshDirect or have a meal at the Rare Bar & Grill. The burgers are some of the best in town!
It’s not just the rooms that make the Shelburne Hotel stand out as one of the best family hotels in NYC. The special family package allows you to enjoy a dine-in credit, complimentary in-room movie, and popcorn and beverages. In addition to this, you’ll also receive an early check-in. As part of the Affinia Junior program, you’ll also enjoy other family perks such as Affinia Starry Night Camp-In, playpens, coloring sheets, and crayons. There are also the Affinia Junior grocery kits to help you whip up a healthy meal.
Located in the heart of Murray Hill, the hotel is close to the Grand Central Terminal. Though it’s a little out of the way from major attractions, the quiet neighborhood makes it ideal for families. That being said, the Empire State Building is a 10-minute stroll from here, while Bryant Park is even a shorter walk away.
Loews Regency
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Loews Regency is one of the best family hotels in NYC because of its commitment to keeping kids happy. A wide range of amenities is available for kids of all age groups. For one thing, children under 18 stay free if they occupy the same room as their parents. That’s not all, though. There’s something for all age groups, from special menus and dining activities to crayons and child-proofing kits for younger kids and access to board games and Gameboys for teenagers.
Although the hotel is extremely child-friendly, it’s also frequented by the political and financial elite. In its heyday, it was a regular hub for Hollywood stars too. Other than shopping, this hotel on the Upper East Side is a little removed from any big attractions. It’s a good place to base yourself if you want to experience the world of the Upper East Side. Dylan’s Candy Bar is a few blocks from here, as is Alice’s Tea Cup. Getting around town is easy, too, with access to eight subway lines.
Guest rooms feature tall ceilings, designer furnishings, and exquisite details. All come with standard amenities that include flatscreen TVs in the bathrooms too! The beds are extremely cozy, too, with soft linen. Families will probably appreciate the extra space in the suites. You can choose from one or two-bedroom suites, according to your needs.
The Regency Bar & Grill is where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal. This is where kids get to pick what they like to eat from a special menu. You may just get to rub shoulders with the city’s elite at the restaurant. There’s also the Italian-inspired San Ambroeus Coffee Bar, where you can indulge in signature pastries, sandwiches, and coffee. Besides this, you can also choose to dine in if that’s a better option, especially with younger kids.
The Pierre
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Location-wise, The Pierre occupies one of the best spots in the city at the intersection of Midtown and the Upper East Side. You’re close to many top-class destinations from this iconic landmark. It’s also opposite Central Park which is an added bonus.
When it comes to families, The Pierre stands out as one of the best family hotels in NYC for its special service. You can book the Pierre Personalized package, which allows you to customize your itinerary to suit your needs. Although this feels more like a hotel for ‘grown-ups,’ the hotel does its bit to make kids feel welcome. Books, games, a stuffed toy, and cookies and milk at turndown are what you can look forward to here. Three children under five can also stay in their parent’s room at no additional cost. While cots are complimentary, there’s an extra charge for roll-away beds.
The hotel scores big on the hospitality ratings, making guests feel extra special from the moment they enter. It has the distinction of being one of the few remaining New York hotels with lift attendants. Rooms here feature traditional decor with Indian touches. Huge suites that resemble lavish old-world New York apartments ensure your stay here is dripping with luxury.
Amenities outside the rooms include a fine-dining restaurant, Perine, and the historic Rotunda, where you can enjoy cocktails and light evening fare. You probably won’t have the time to hit the gym if you have little kids, but if you do have the time, the 24-hour fitness center is top-class.
The Peninsula
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The grandiose century-old building of The Peninsula Hotel stands out with its Beaux-Arts exterior and grand two-story foyer. But that’s not all that makes an impression about this hotel on Fifth Avenue and 55th Street in Midtown Manhattan. Firstly, the location puts you within walking distance of many attractions and restaurants. Public transit is also within easy reach of the hotel.
Once you enter the hotel, you’ll understand why it’s so special. In keeping with “The Peninsula Promise,” you can look forward to impeccable service. This includes an extended and flexible check-in and check-out and guaranteed connecting rooms that are important for families. There’s also a discount included when selecting connecting rooms. That’s not all there is for families. Dedicated children’s amenities and good entertainment options ensure your kids will have as much fun in the city as adults. There are two dedicated packages for families; Camp Peninsula which includes a mini tepee in the room, and the Family Escape package.
Apart from this, the indoor, glass-encased pool is a winner, although there isn’t a separate kiddie pool. You can choose to dine poolside or at any dining venues within the hotel. Alternatively, you could also enjoy in-room dining if your little ones are too young to be at the table. On the same floor as the pool, you’ll find the Peninsula Spa, one of the best in the city, and a gym. With so much to keep you and your kids occupied, the hotel is undoubtedly the best hotel for family in New York City.
The Ritz Carlton Central Park
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Anyone who has stayed at the Ritz Carlton Central Park will be familiar with their exceptional hospitality and wide range of amenities. What some may not be familiar with are the excellent facilities for kids. The hotel goes out of its way to welcome families and ensure kids have a good time here. It’s no wonder that it shoots right up the rankings of the best hotels for family in New York City. It also stands out as one of the best hotels in Midtown.
Kids are included with a special ‘registration form’ in a special check-in area for kids right from check-in. They also get a Ritz Kids welcome pack with quite a few surprises to keep them busy during their stay. Additionally, if you book a Ritz Kid package, the kids can enjoy a few extras, such as a picnic in Central Park, a bubble bath with a rubber duck, and a kiddie meal at the in-house restaurant. Apart from the amenities on offer at the hotel, the location is also spot-on for kids. With horse carriages just in front of the hotel, the little ones can enjoy a ride in the Park. Don’t miss The Feeding of the Horses, which happens in the afternoon.
The hotel occupies a grandiose 19th-century building that was once the St. Moritz hotel. It recently underwent a refurbishment to give it an even brighter sheen. All guest rooms received a facelift too, but the decor is more subtle than the lounge downstairs, with a rich, neutral palette. You can be sure you and the kids will be more than comfortable with the wide range of in-room amenities. Other luxuries you can look forward to are the upgraded La Prairie Spa and Star Lounge and a meal at the Auden Bistro.
Where to Stay in New York City
First-timers to New York will probably be quite overwhelmed in deciding where to stay, given the size of the city. NYC is divided into five different boroughs, with Manhattan most popular with tourists. Manhattan is also divided into different areas, so it can sometimes get quite confusing. That being said, wherever you choose to stay in New York City with family, it’s best to make sure that there’s a subway station close by.
If you’re looking to be close to Central Park, a good idea would be to check out family hotels in Upper West and East Sides. Some of the best family hotels in NYC are in this area. These family hotels also stand out as some of the best hotels in Manhattan. You’ll find the Children’s Museum of Manhattan and the American Museum of Natural History in the area. The Upper West Side is characterized by brownstones and is a more affordable area than the ritzy Upper East Side.
Midtown and Times Square are where all the action is, with many popular attractions in the area. Family hotels in this area are quite expensive, so if you’re looking for more affordable family hotels in New York, you may want to rethink your options. Also, the area is jam-packed with tourists, so if you’re uncomfortable jostling your way through crowds, then look elsewhere.
Midtown East is where you’ll find the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central Station; some of the Top Tourist Attractions in the USA. If you’re looking for the best family hotel in NYC, you’ll probably find it here but be prepared for a ‘big’ bill!
The trendiest neighborhoods are Chelsea, Flatiron District, and Union Square, characterized by cobblestone streets, charming cafes, and boutiques. You’ll find some affordable family hotels in New York City in this area too.
Recommended Family Restaurants / Bars in NYC
- Junior’s – Located on 45th Street, this restaurant is a must for those who love cheesecake. Cheesecake is not the only draw for kids, though. With a range of lip-smacking burgers, sandwiches, and other treats on offer, you and your little ones will leave here quite satisfied. Junior’s has other outlets in the city, so you won’t have to miss out.
- Prova Pizza Bar – This restaurant on the lower dining concourse of Grand Central Station serves up moderately-priced but delicious Neapolitan-inspired square pizza. It’s a good place to stop by if you’ve got a train to catch.
- Serendipity 3 – This iconic sweet spot is where you can indulge your sweet tooth and your kids with decadent desserts such as the renowned Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. It’s not just the desserts that amaze here but the burgers too.
Recommended Family Activities in NYC
- Horse Carriage Ride – If you’re staying in one of the family hotels in New York City near Central Park, a good idea would be to take the kids on a carriage ride. This one-hour sightseeing tour will not only show you the sights of Central Park, Rockefeller & Times Square but will also be a novel experience for the kids. If you’re in the area in the afternoon, you may just get to feed the horses.
- Children’s Museum of Arts – While museums may not be on every child’s list of places to see, a visit to the Children’s Museum of the Arts on Charlton Street will pique their interest. You’ll find quite a few interesting kid-centric activities to keep the little ones busy here.
- Bronx Zoo – Which kid doesn’t love a trip to the zoo? The Bronx Zoo has been enthralling kids and adults since it opened in 1899. It’s spread over 265 acres and is home to over 6,000 animals, thus standing out as one of the most fascinating zoos in the world. You can be sure your kids will bemore than happy with a visit here.
