Chun Yang Tea

When the holidays roll around and it's a family priority to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on television every year, you should really consider heading to NYC to see it in person. This world-famous event has been a major production since 1924 and there's nothing like seeing it from the sidelines.

Central Park is one of New York City's best known landmarks, so visiting here with your family should be a shoe-in on your list of attractions to see. The park is home to several man-made lakes and ponds, walking and recreation trails, two ice-skating rinks, a wildlife sanctuary and many other natural amenities. Other must-see sights you can experience as a family include The Belvedere Castle, the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, and the Central Park Zoo.

While exploring Staten Island, stop at the Alice Austen House for a unique museum experience. The Dutch Colonial style home, often referred to as Clear Comfort, was built between 1690 and 1750, and belonged to photographer Alice Austen until 1945. The home now houses a museum featuring work from Austen and other photographers. The Austen House also offers etiquette classes, art camps and small concerts.

Take a look into the city's past at the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, a facility that presents the history of the Mount Vernon Hotel. The hotel operated from 1826 until 1833; in its heyday, the hotel was a fashionable country resort that was popular among New Yorkers who wanted to take a break from city life. After restorations, the site was opened to the public in 1939 and serves as a reminder of a significant era in New York City history.