By S. Herlihy
New York City is a tourist mecca. Visitors come from just about every country to tour one of America's most famous and admired destinations. As wonderful as New York City can be for adults, it can be just as charming for second-graders. New York has many attractions that will please every member of your family.
Times Square
Visit Times Square, and take time to look up. The giant billboards are an eyeful. If visiting on New Year's Eve, come early. This is where the famous ball descends as the final seconds of the year are counted down. Kids can see lifelike replicas of the rich and famous at Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. Teens can shop Planet Hollywood, Toys 'R' Us, M&M World and Hershey's. Try to visit early in the morning. Times Square Studios broadcasts Good Morning America from this area. Visitors are often interviewed.
The New York Botanical Gardens
Visit the Bronx for the New York Botanical Gardens. Acres of lush landscaping come alive three seasons of the year. The Botanical Gardens has a specially-designed exhibit that allows small children to crawl through hedge mazes and touch water plants. The family garden allows participants to dig for worms and plant seeds. Adults will enjoy the lush rose garden and its blooms during June and September. The Botanical Gardens are accessible from midtown Manhattan via car, bus and subway.
Central Park Zoo
Check out New York City's largest park, Central Park. Tucked into the park is a gem of a zoo that has many exhibits designed especially for families and children. You'll find a recreation of a rain forest, where you can see turtles and sloths among other creatures, and a nature trail with sheep, alpacas and a duck pond. Polar bears, penguins and puffins can be seen in an outdoor exhibit, while playful seals and sea lions are also on the property.
About the Author:
S. Herlihy has been a freelance writer since 2001. Her work has appeared in many publications, including "USA Today," "The Women’s Independent Press," "Big Apple Parent" and "ComputorEdge Magazine." Herlihy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the City University of New York.
