In preparation for your upcoming trip to New York City take a virtual trip to the big apple with these New York City movies for kids. We have already put together a collection of New York City books for kids. 
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I originally put together this list way back in 2013…many years ago. We are heading back to NYC, with the kids and we thought this would be the perfect time to update our list of kids movies set in New York. So, I’m adding movies that have been released in the past few years. I’m also including movies that older kids will enjoy.
There are so many family films set in New York. The goal of this list is to provide a list of super fun family movies that are set in New York that will give kids a glimpse into life in the Big Apple.
Family Movies Set in New York
The Muppets Take Manhattan
This is one of my all time favourite movies…and one of the best family movies set in New York. I love seeing Manhattan from a Muppet’s point of view. What an adventure they have in the nitty-gritty city. The songs, the adventure, the romance, the jokes. This movie has it all!
Ghostbusters
While the Stay-Puft-Marshmallow man is not a permanent fixture in NYC, you will see many landmarks throughout the movie. This movie set includes both Ghostbusters I and II, plus a bonus booklet.
Yes, we love the original Ghostbusters, but please give the updated – all female – Ghostbusters a chance. There are some seriously hilarious moments in this one…and a fun tour through Manhattan too.
Enchanted
It’s the classic story of a small town girl (from a totally different time period) who is dropped into the middle of NYC…will she find her prince? There is a super, awesome, must-see BIG song and dance scene in Central Park…awesome!
Night at the Museum
Every kid’s dream comes true – the American Museum of Natural History comes to life at night. Plan to visit the museum on your visit to NYC and check out all the characters from the movie.
Superman
Okay, so Superman flies through the skies of “Metropolis”…but isn’t it really New York City? Introduce your kids to one of the original superhero movies. This DVD set has 5 Superman movies all in one pack…what a fun collection to watch with the kids.
Big
Tom Hanks dancing on a gigantic floor keyboard in FAO Schwartz, need I say more? Even more awesome because FAO Schwartz is having a comeback.
An American Tail
A new perspective of New York City, through the eyes of a Russian immigrant mouse. Who knew we could learn about immigration from a community of little mice?
West Side Story
This one is for the older kids. A modern interpretation of Romeo and Juliet…with plenty of dancing and finger snapping.
Fame
Another one for the older kids and another one that is packed with passion and lots of dancing. You can also check out the newer Fame television show…but I haven’t watched it so I can’t give an actual review.
Elf
I know that this one is technically a Christmas movie…and there are plenty of Christmas movies set in NYC…but Elf is filled with so many memorable shots of New York. I know that our trip will include each of us saying “Remember this place in Elf…”
Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
Enter the magical world of witches and wizards in NYC, back in 1926. A totally new way to take on the sights of New York. Love the underground subway scenes.
This one was suggested by a reader and I couldn’t believe I didn’t include it in the original list. Of course, who doesn’t love poor overlooked Kevin McCallister and his holiday spent in New York…all alone. The perfect Christmas movie.
Spider-Man Homecoming takes place in New York City, following the destruction of New York that takes place in Marvel’s The Avengers movie (another good NYC movie). Spider-Man swings through the city and there are some beautiful skyline shots too.
Take a trip to the borough of Harlem and discover a modernized version of the incredible songs and story of orphan Annie. This update, starring Jamie Foxx, is full of laughs and a very happily ever after moment. All while driving and flying over New York City.
So, what is your favourite kids movie set in New York City?
I would love to hear your suggestions.
Related posts
Check out our collection of books for kids that are set in New York City
Get ready for family movie night by making your very own popcorn and drink tray
What a fun list! We also like Home Alone 2 as a NY holiday film. Ghostbusters, Enchanted and Big are also on top of our list. Hope you have a wonderful trip!