New York City & Niagara Falls, NY 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive from Boston to NYC

Begin your road trip from Boston to the bustling heart of New York City.

The drive is approximately 4 hours, so plan for comfort stops, especially with little ones.

Hotel Check-in & Relax

Check into your family-friendly hotel in New York City and take some time to settle in and refresh after your drive.

Look for hotels with family amenities and good public transport access.

Times Square Exploration

Experience the vibrant energy and dazzling billboards of Times Square.

It's an iconic landmark that will captivate both kids!

It can be very crowded, so keep a close eye on the kids. There are many souvenir shops and street performers.

Family Dinner near Times Square

Enjoy a casual family dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Times Square area, offering a variety of cuisines.

Brooklyn Bridge Park

Enjoy the stunning waterfront views of the Manhattan skyline and a playground for your 3-year-old.

The 14-year-old will appreciate the photo opportunities.

This park offers fantastic views and green spaces for relaxation.

Walk Brooklyn Bridge

Stroll across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, enjoying panoramic views of Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and the East River. It's a great experience for all ages.

Stay on the pedestrian path and watch out for cyclists. Wear comfortable shoes.

Lunch in Financial District

Grab a quick and easy lunch in the Financial District, perhaps near Wall Street or one of the many food options available.

Explore The Battery

Visit The Battery, a scenic park at the southern tip of Manhattan, offering beautiful views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

A great spot for the kids to run around.

This is where ferries depart for the Statue of Liberty, but you can enjoy the views from the park for free.

One World Trade Center Views

Take in the exterior of the impressive One World Trade Center and reflect on the significance of the area.

Consider visiting the 9/11 Memorial (free entry) if the 14-year-old is interested and you feel it's appropriate for the family. The museum requires tickets.

Dinner in Greenwich Village

Enjoy a delightful dinner in Greenwich Village, known for its charming streets and diverse culinary scene.

Find a family-friendly spot.

Central Park Fun

Spend your morning exploring Central Park.

The 3-year-old can enjoy one of the many playgrounds, while the 14-year-old might like exploring paths or seeing iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace.

Consider renting bikes for the 14-year-old and adults if you want to cover more ground. The carousel is a fun option for the younger child.

Lunch near Central Park

Enjoy lunch at a casual eatery near Central Park, offering options for all tastes.

Rockefeller Center & 5th Ave

Explore the Rockefeller Center complex, see St.

Patrick's Cathedral, and window shop along Fifth Avenue. Great for sightseeing and soaking in the city's glamour.

Consider a visit to FAO Schwarz for the kids, or if time allows and within budget, a trip up Top of the Rock for amazing views.

Dinner in Midtown

Have your final NYC dinner in the Midtown area, choosing from various family-friendly restaurants.

Hotel Check-out & Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast and check out from your New York City hotel.

Grab some snacks and drinks for the road trip.

Road Trip to Niagara Falls

Embark on the longest leg of your road trip, driving from New York City to Niagara Falls, NY.

This journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, so plan for multiple breaks.

Check into Niagara Falls Hotel

Arrive in Niagara Falls, NY, and check into your accommodation.

Rest and prepare for an evening view of the falls.

Look for hotels within walking distance or a short drive to Niagara Falls State Park.

Dinner in Niagara Falls

Enjoy a family dinner at a restaurant in Niagara Falls, NY.

View Illuminated Falls

Witness the spectacular illumination of Niagara Falls after dark.

It's a magical experience for the whole family.

Maid of the Mist Boat Tour

Experience the sheer power of Niagara Falls up close with a thrilling boat ride into the mist.

Rain ponchos are provided, and it's an unforgettable experience for all ages.

The boat ride can get very wet, so protect electronics. Strollers are allowed. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.

Cave of the Winds

Descend 175 feet into the Niagara Gorge and walk right up to the Bridal Veil Falls at the Hurricane Deck.

Another exhilarating, wet experience!

Wear comfortable shoes that can get wet. Sandals are provided. The 3-year-old will need to be carried or stay very close, as it can be slippery.

Lunch in State Park

Have a casual lunch at one of the eateries or snack bars within Niagara Falls State Park.

Niagara Falls Observation Tower

Gain a unique panoramic perspective of all three Niagara Falls (American, Bridal Veil, and Horseshoe Falls) from the Observation Tower.

The tower also provides elevator access to the Maid of the Mist boat ride if you want to combine them.

Explore Niagara Falls State Park

Spend some time exploring the walking trails and various viewpoints within Niagara Falls State Park at your leisure.

Leisurely Dinner in Niagara

Enjoy another family dinner in Niagara Falls, perhaps trying a different local restaurant.

Breakfast in Niagara Falls

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation or a local diner before starting your drive.

Check out local breakfast spots like The Waffle Factory for a casual, family-friendly meal.

Road Trip to Syracuse, NY

Begin your scenic drive eastward towards Syracuse, a comfortable first leg of your return journey.

Remember to pack snacks and drinks for the road, and plan for comfort stops, especially with young children. The drive offers views of upstate New York's rolling landscapes.

Lunch in Syracuse

Grab a quick and casual lunch in Syracuse upon arrival.

Syracuse offers many family-friendly restaurants; consider something quick near your next activity.

Rosamond Gifford Zoo Visit

Spend the afternoon at the Rosamond Gifford Zoo, home to a variety of animals and known for its conservation efforts.

A great stop for all ages, especially engaging for children.

Check their website for daily schedules and any special exhibits or animal encounters. Parking is available on-site. Dress comfortably for walking.

Dinner in Syracuse

Enjoy dinner at a local Syracuse restaurant.

Syracuse has diverse dining options, from casual to upscale. Look for family-friendly establishments.

Check into Hotel

Check into your pre-booked accommodation in the Syracuse area.

Choose a hotel with amenities suitable for families, such as an indoor pool or complimentary breakfast.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel or a nearby cafe before checking out and preparing for the next leg of your journey.

Drive to Springfield, MA

Continue your road trip across New York into Western Massachusetts, heading for Springfield.

This stretch of the drive offers varied scenery. Plan for a comfort stop mid-way.

Lunch in Springfield

Have lunch in Springfield, MA, before heading to the museums.

Many casual dining options are available near the museum complex.

Dr. Seuss Museum & Sculpture Garden

Visit the Amazing World of Dr.

Seuss Museum within the Springfield Museums complex. This interactive museum is perfect for young children and a nostalgic treat for older ones and adults. Also explore the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden.

The Springfield Museums encompass several museums; your ticket grants access to all. Focus on the Dr. Seuss Museum and the Science Museum for the kids. Parking is available. Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially for peak season.

Dinner in Springfield

Dine at a local restaurant in Springfield.

Explore dining options in downtown Springfield or near your chosen accommodation.

Check into Hotel

Check into your accommodation in the Springfield area.

Rest up for another day of exploration and travel.

Breakfast & Check-out

Enjoy breakfast in Springfield before checking out of your hotel.

Drive to Old Sturbridge Village

Take a short drive to Sturbridge, MA, home of the Old Sturbridge Village.

Explore Old Sturbridge Village

Step back in time at Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum portraying life in rural New England during the 1830s.

It offers engaging activities, demonstrations, and exhibits suitable for all ages.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. They have interpreters, artisans, and farm animals. Check their schedule for daily programs. It's an outdoor museum, so dress for the weather. Food options are available on-site.

Drive back to Boston

Conclude your day with the final leg of your road trip, driving back to Boston.

Farewell Dinner in Boston

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner back in Boston, celebrating your fantastic road trip adventure.

Boston offers a huge variety of dining options; pick a family favorite or try a new spot to mark the end of your journey.

Leisurely Breakfast

Enjoy a relaxed final breakfast in Boston, reflecting on your memorable road trip.

Last-minute Souvenirs

If time permits, grab some last-minute souvenirs or gifts from Boston.

Popular areas for souvenirs include Faneuil Hall Marketplace or shops along Newbury Street.

Prepare for Departure

Complete any final packing, check out from your accommodation (if applicable), and prepare for your onward journey from Boston.

Ensure all belongings are packed and any rental car returns are scheduled.