Hook: Jimmy teaches himself to do flips in his backyard when he was six years old, and we can’t wait to see what other exciting experiences this energetic preteen has in store for us.
An Epic Week in NYC with Preteens
As a seasoned New Yorker with over 20 years of living in the city, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing all that NYC has to offer. But nothing beats the excitement of sharing this vibrant city with a group of preteens, like my friend Anton’s 13-year-old second cousin, Jimmy, who came from England to visit Brooklyn.
Jimmy’s First Time in the U.S.
Jimmy lives in a small seaside town in England, and this was his first time in the U.S. We were all beyond excited to show him the sights and sounds of the city. As we explored the city together, Jimmy’s energy and curiosity were infectious. He taught himself to do flips in his backyard when he was six, and we could tell that he was always up for a challenge.
Sights to See
Jimmy asked to see a few sights, and we were happy to oblige. We took him to the iconic American Museum of Natural History, one of our long-time favorite places. The boys were fascinated by the dinosaur fossils and the giant squid exhibit. We also took them to see Times Square at night, where Jimmy did a back flip for a crowd. It was a thrilling experience that neither of them will ever forget.
Adventures and Activities
In addition to visiting iconic landmarks, we also wanted to give Jimmy a taste of the city’s more adventurous side. We took the boys to the Chelsea Piers driving range, where they hit balls while I did the New Yorker crossword puzzle. Jimmy was thrilled to be hitting balls on a real driving range, and Anton was happy to be spending quality time with his cousin.
Foodie Fun
One of Jimmy’s favorite experiences in the city was trying all the different foods in the neighborhood. He was fascinated by the variety of cuisines available, from Japanese to Lebanese to Thai. And, of course, no trip to NYC would be complete without a visit to 16 Handles, where Jimmy indulged in his favorite frozen yogurt flavors.
Magic and Laughter
At the end of the week, Toby and my mom joined us, and we went to a neighborhood café for coffee and magic tricks with cards. Jimmy showed us some cool ones, and I busted out my old favorite. It was a fun way to spend the afternoon, and we all enjoyed the laughter and entertainment.
The Goodbye
Finally, on Sunday, my brother and Jimmy headed back to England, and, honestly, we all felt really sad. It’s hard to live an ocean away from loved ones, as I’m sure many of you experience. But we’re so lucky to be able to keep in touch. When my maternal grandmother moved from Manchester, England, to Chicago with her new soldier husband, she could only exchange letters with her parents, until they visited many years later.
Atomic Facts:
- Jimmy is 13 years old.
- Jimmy is from England.
- Jimmy has a small seaside town in England.
- Jimmy learned to do flips at six.
- Jimmy wants to ride in a yellow school bus.
- Jimmy loves 16 Handles.
- The author has lived in NYC for 20+ years.
Tips for Visitors with Preteens
If you’re planning a trip to NYC with preteens, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Plan ahead: Make sure to book tickets and reservations for popular attractions in advance to avoid long wait times.
- Be flexible: Be prepared for changing plans and unexpected adventures.
- Encourage exploration: Give your preteens the freedom to explore the city on their own, but always keep a safe distance.
- Make memories: Take time to enjoy the little things and make memories with your preteens.
Conclusion
An epic week in NYC with preteens is a thrilling adventure that will leave you and your little ones with unforgettable memories. From iconic landmarks to delicious treats and exciting activities, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. So pack your bags, grab your cameras, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
6 NYC Itineraries for Kids
If you’re planning a trip to NYC with kids, be sure to check out my previous itineraries:
- The Ultimate NYC Itinerary for Kids: A comprehensive guide to the city’s best attractions and activities.
- A Day in the Life of a NYC Kid: A behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to grow up in the city.
- The Best Foods in NYC for Kids: A guide to the city’s best kid-friendly restaurants and cafes.
- The Best Parks in NYC for Kids: A list of the city’s best parks and green spaces for kids to play and explore.
- The Best Museums in NYC for Kids: A guide to the city’s best museums and cultural institutions for kids.
- The Best Indoor Play Centers in NYC: A list of the city’s best indoor play centers and playgrounds for kids.
I hope you enjoy this article and find it helpful in planning your next adventure to NYC with preteens!
