New York City is a winter wonderland and a great town to take the family for winter break. The classic New York movies are true to the spirit of the city. Serendipidity, Sleepless in Seattle, When Harry Met Sally, and You've Got Mail are just a few where cold winter days grace the streets and snow is in the air.
For children who are native to the city the first snow of the season brings out the sleds, boots, mittens, and if they are lucky, school closures.
For Southern California children the change in temperature may first come as a shock but soon enough the crisp air becomes invigorating and the sun sends a warm glow which provides insulation. Layers and woolens are the way to go.
New York never lacks for something to do. All children love ice-skating. There are six rinks to choose from:
Citi Pond at Bryant Park is alive with shops and cafes and is a short walk to Times Square and the New York Public Library.
Rockefeller Center Ice Skating Rink offers a magnificent view of the lengendary Christmas tree in front of the 30 Rockefeller Center Building.
http://www.rockefellercenter.com/events/2011/10/10/ice-skating-rink-rockefeller-center/
Wollman Rink and Lasker Rink in Central Park provides the opportunity to explore the park and cross town from the east to the west or from the north to the south side. Central Park is home to the Central Park Zoo, the Central Park Reservoir where many joggers run around the perimeter from dawn to dusk, horse and carriage buggies, and hundreds of people strolling about.
The Standard Hotel Ice Rink in the meat packing district is a quick walk into Greenwich Village. After skating treat the kids to crepes and hot chocolate.
www.standardhotels.com/new-york-city/
Sky Rink at Chelsea Piers is on the Hudson River. The view across to New Jersey and uptown towards the George Washington Bridge is breathtaking.
New York is an eating town. For the kids there is no better treat than to take them to Serendipidity, on East 60th Street, for ice cream sundaes, hot chocolate, or the specialty frozen hot chocolate. If that does not satisfy their appetite there is an entire menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches. The decor is old-fashioned ice-cream parlor. It is best to call for reservations a number of days in advance.
Bloomingdales is three short blocks from Serendipidity. Bloomingdales New York takes up an entire city block and has seven floors. The lower level can be accessed from the subway.
Culture abounds in New York. The Museum of Natural History on West 79st Street and Central Park West has pavilions of dinosaurs, cavemen, butterfly exhibits, and much more. Plan to spend several hours. Columbia University is a 15 minute walk from the museum for those parents who want to further inspire their children.
Ground Zero is a must see. The new tower is halfway completed and it gives one pause to think back to the day that changed the world.
New York is a walking city. Bundle up and just walk. There is so much to see that walking is part of the doing. Times Square bustles all day and all night. For the theatre lover discount tickets can be purchased the day of at TKTS Discount Ticket Booth at Broadway and 47th Street.
When the kids get tired of walking, take the subway. Metro Cards can be bought to house a number of trips. It is a good idea to buy a subway map. For the adventurous, the subway goes to Coney Island in Brooklyn where you can visit the New York Aquarium.
New York is about exploration and photos. A travel guide book of New York City will recommend additional ideas and tips. A camera is the picture journal of the family getaway. Most of all remember, New Yorkers are helpful and friendly.
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