Things to Do in New York City with a Teenager: Jazz & More

Traveling to New York City with a teenager? With the right planning, you’re in for a great time that you’ll both remember for years to come. New York City is packed with so many exciting things to do that teens will actually enjoy. 

If you’re thinking whether New York is good to visit with your child or children, know that there are plenty of things to do with a teenager in New York City that the whole family will enjoy. From live jazz and history to photo-worthy architecture and fun neighborhoods, this city has something to offer for every personality and mood, whether it’s for children, teenagers, or adults!

One of the most engaging and culturally rich activities for families with teens is exploring the city’s jazz scene, particularly with a reliable local jazz tour operator, like Big Apple Jazz Tours. 

Whether your teen is already into music or they’re someone who likes unique adventures, these tours offer a fun and educational way to see the city. In this guide, we’ll cover the best things to do with a teenager in New York City, many of which are featured or inspired by Big Apple Jazz’s experiences around the city.

Explore Hidden History in Lower Manhattan

Try starting your teen’s NYC journey with a walking tour through the streets of Lower Manhattan. This area is filled with old buildings, quirky stories, and historical landmarks that you may recognize for TV. Teens who enjoy real stories and off-the-beaten-path facts will love this experience making it one of the best things to do with a teenager in New York City. 

Catch a Live Jazz Show with Big Apple Jazz

Live jazz in New York might sound like something that’s ideal for adults, which it is, but there’s more to it!  It’s also surprisingly teen-friendly, especially with a curated private tour offered by Big Apple Jazz Tours. Their tours are laid-back, fun, and full of good music. 

Visiting family-friendly jazz clubs is truly one of the unmatched things to do with a teenager in New York City, especially for those who want to experience live jazz music. Teens get to experience intimate venues where world-class musicians perform, giving aspiring musicians true inspiration in one of the best cities in the world to watch live jazz.

Ride the Subway to Coney Island

A subway ride is a fun way for teens to feel like locals, and if it ends at Coney Island, even better. Teens can ride the Cyclone roller coaster, eat hot dogs from Nathan’s Famous Hotdog Cart, take photos on the beach, and walk the boardwalk. It can be a jam-packed full-day adventure that mixes thrills, food, and seaside charm. Plus, there’s nothing better than seeing your favorite TV spots in person.

Take the Perfect Instagram Shots at the Vessel and High Line

Hudson Yards is home to the Vessel, a climbable public structure that teens love for its design and photo opportunities, making it one of the fun things to do with a teenager in New York City. After snapping some pictures, head to the nearby High Line, which is an elevated park with street art, greenery, and great places to grab a snack.

Discover Free Things to Do in New York City with Teenagers

There are lots of free museums and events around the city that allow your teenagers to have all the fun without you having to burn a hole in your pocket. 

The New York Public Library offers exhibitions and architecture that are totally worth a visit. For instance, while the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) has free Friday evenings, the American Museum of Natural History is always a hit with teens interested in science or space.

Other great free things to do in New York City with teenagers include:

• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
  
  
• Visit Washington Square Park for music and street performers
  
  
• Watch the skyline from the Staten Island Ferry
  

Enjoy the View from an Observation Deck

Teenagers love city views, especially from above. You can take them to Summit One Vanderbilt, Top of the Rock, or the Edge for sweeping views of the city and amazing photo opportunities. These spots make for great evening outings before or after dinner, for teenagers, children, and adults alike.

Given the incredible views, these visits are easily one of the top things to do with a teenager in New York City. Sometimes the simplest activities are the best, especially when it’s instagramable.

Take a Nighttime Walk Through Times Square

Times Square is even more exciting at night as it comes alive with lights. Teens usually enjoy the glowing billboards, street performers, and the constant energy of the crowd. It’s a free activity and gives a great taste of NYC’s buzz. Make sure to stop at a late-night dessert shop on the way back to your hotel for a true NYC experience. 

Hang Out in Popular Parks

These parks are not just green spaces, they’re social hubs that offer an escape for the bustling city life. While Bryant Park has games, pop-up food stands, and movie nights, Washington Square Park has live music, chalk artists, and a fun college-town vibe. All in all, both spots are great for teens to relax and people-watch as you take a quick break to slow down from the hustle and bustle. 

Stay Somewhere Teen-Friendly

Thinking apart from all the things to do with a teenager in New York City, you must also consider where they’ll be staying. 

Teens want lodging that feels casual and connected to the city. Jazz on the Park Hostel, located near Central Park, is a good option. It has a cool, artsy vibe and is close to subways and outdoor attractions.

Plan Your Trip with Big Apple Jazz Tours

If you’re looking for an experience designed with teenagers in mind, Big Apple Jazz Tours offers the perfect solution. Their private jazz tours are family-friendly, easy-going, and packed with local insight. From Harlem’s hidden clubs to Greenwich Village’s cozy music scenes, every stop is curated for fun and learning.

Big Apple Jazz makes it easy to plan your trip. Whether you want to focus on history, culture, or just want a relaxed evening with great music, they’ll tailor the tour to suit your family’s interests.

Book a tour or browse more at Big Apple Jazz Tours.

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of things to do with a teenager in New York City that are not only fun but meaningful. With the right mix of excitement and culture, your teen will leave NYC with lasting memories and maybe even a new love for jazz.

Thanks to Big Apple Jazz and their hands-on, immersive tours, families can enjoy the city together in a way that’s unique, personal, and totally teen-approved. For more ideas or to start planning your jazz adventure, explore all the options and book a jazz tour as per your preference. 

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