New York

American Mosaic: An NYC Exploration With Your Grandchild

Program No. 11559RJ
Journey into the past and explore the present with your family in NYC, where the city’s iconic spots create a mosaic of influences from around the globe.

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At a Glance

Imagine the excitement of past generations as they sailed toward New York City for the first time, the sparkling torch of Lady Liberty lighting the way above them. Travel through time with your grandchild as you experience both the past and present of this remarkable city and its mosaic of cultural influences. Discover the story of generations past with visits to Little Italy and Chinatown, go behind the scenes at the United Nations headquarters and experience NYC like a local as you explore Central Park, spot species at the New York Aquarium and taste hot dogs on Coney Island. Who knows, your adventures may even spark a discovery on your own family tree!
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Six hours of physical activity daily, including walking up to eight miles, taking public transportation and climbing stairs.

What You'll Learn

  • Take a ferry ride to the iconic Statue of Liberty before visiting Ellis Island, where you’ll learn about past generations and their journey to America.
  • Take off on a photo safari of Central Park’s most famous spots, using maps and clues to discover sites like the Balto the Dog statue.
  • Navigate the city like a local as you travel to the New York Aquarium, find your favorite amusement ride in Luna Park and eat hot dogs at Coney Island.

General Notes

This program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. For a comparable family adventure for all generations, check out "American Mosaic: An NYC Exploration With Your Family" (#21019)!
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Tom Bernardin
As a National Park Service Guide at Ellis Island, Tom Bernardin became an avid collector of Statue of Liberty memorabilia — and his association with Ellis Island inspired him to write "The Ellis Island Immigrant Cookbook: The Story of Our Past Told Through the Recipes and Reminiscences of our Immigrant Ancestors." He has made guest appearances on National Public Radio, the TV Food Network, Arts and Entertainment and the History Channel.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Tom Bernardin
Tom Bernardin View biography
As a National Park Service Guide at Ellis Island, Tom Bernardin became an avid collector of Statue of Liberty memorabilia — and his association with Ellis Island inspired him to write "The Ellis Island Immigrant Cookbook: The Story of Our Past Told Through the Recipes and Reminiscences of our Immigrant Ancestors." He has made guest appearances on National Public Radio, the TV Food Network, Arts and Entertainment and the History Channel.
Profile Image of Angela Christensen
Angela Christensen View biography
Angela Christensen is a licensed New York City excursion leader who has extensive experience in event planning and hospitality. She worked with the Wildlife Conservation Society managing events in the Bronx Zoo, Central Park, Prospect Park, the Queens Zoo and the New York Aquarium. Now, she loves showing off her city with lifelong learners from around the world!
Profile Image of Karl Baudendistel
Karl Baudendistel View biography
A New York City resident for more than 25 years, Karl Baudendistel loves sharing his knowledge of the city with visitors from around the world. Having spent 20 years overseeing ‘the business of show business’ for numerous Broadway and touring productions, chances are he’s been to a city near you. Karl is a member of The Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers, is a trained sommelier and was educated at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
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