Unique Behind-the-Scenes Tours in NYC for Families

There are tons of wonderful tours in New York City that give families an unforgettable experience. But, who doesn’t love to peek behind the curtain for an inside scoop? From stepping into famous pizza kitchens to exclusive looks behind the scenes of a favorite Broadway show, these behind-the-scenes tours in NYC offer a treasure trove of adventures to spark curiosity and excitement, while giving you and your kids some street cred!

So, grab your calendar and start planning an adventure to one of these behind-the-scenes New York City tours. We've got more splurge-worthy experiences for families on this list of over-the-top NYC experiences for kids.

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See historical costumes from the world-famous Rockettes at a Radio City Music Hall behind-the-scenes tour in NYC. 

Tours in NYC on Stage, Screen, and Beyond

1. Radio City Music Hall – Midtown West

Whether your family has a tradition of seeing the Radio City Rockettes annually, or you just love live music, you can see the magic of the Showplace of the Nation with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of Radio City Music Hall. This 60-minute guided tour in NYC takes you through the stunning history and artistry of this iconic venue. Marvel at art deco masterpieces like the 60-foot high Grand Foyer, and get a rare glimpse into Radio City’s hidden gem, The Roxy Suite. You'll enjoy exclusive views of the majestic auditorium and hear the fascinating stories of the legendary Great Stage. To top it all off, the tour ends with a meet-and-greet with a real Radio City Rockette.

Good to know: Children under age 5 can enjoy this tour for FREE, but the stairs and narrow corridors are hard to navigate with a stroller so opt for the carrier.

2. NBC Studios Tour – Midtown West

Peek into the world of television history with a tour of NBC Studios at the iconic 30 Rock in Midtown Manhattan. Join an NBC Page for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the bustling live broadcast center and stroll through the legendary studios of Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Ever dreamed of being a TV host? In the Tour Studio, you can create your own show and take home a polished version of your on-screen debut. Before you go, don’t miss the main floor shop, where you can snag coveted merchandise from SNL, The Today Show, The Office, or other NBC hits.

Good to know: Children under the age of 8 are not permitted.

3. The Apollo – Harlem

Experience the magic of The Apollo with the Apollo Historic Tour, where you’ll step inside the legendary theater and uncover its rich history with exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Discover why The Apollo is truly “Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made!” as Apollo historian Billy “Mr. Apollo” Mitchell takes you on an entertaining and inspiring journey through the theater’s past, present, and future.

Good to know: Tours are available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays—production schedule permitting.

4. Broadway Plus Backstage Tours – Midtown West

Go behind the scenes of your favorite Broadway shows during a private post-show tour led by a cast member where you get an inside look at the stage, set, props, costumes, and more! Shows featured vary, but fan favorites like The Lion King, Hamilton, Wicked, and Aladdin have all been available. A tour for a family of four costs a pretty penny, so check rates before promising this to your little Broadway baby!

Good to know: Broadway Plus is a self-described Broadway concierge and can coordinate your entire visit from tickets to tours.

5. Museum of Broadway – Midtown West

If you love Broadway, but a private tour is a bit outside your budget, try a visit to the Museum of Broadway. This interactive and immersive experience lets visitors explore hundreds of rare costumes, props, and artifacts that showcase the glamour and excitement of the Great White Way. Stroll through Broadway’s history, beginning in 1732 with New York City's first documented performance, and journey behind the scenes to see how a Broadway show is brought to life. As you navigate the timeline, you'll encounter exhibits highlighting the groundbreaking moments that pushed creative boundaries, challenged social norms, and paved the way for future generations. Designed by world-renowned artists, designers, and theater historians, the Museum of Broadway offers an unforgettable look at the legendary milestones that have shaped the Great White Way.

Good to know: Strollers must be checked before you enter the exhibit area.

6. History of Hip Hop – Harlem or the Bronx

When Hush Tours describes its tour as a behind-the-scenes tour in NYC, it's not referring to a physical building or stage, but instead, the “stories and locations that helped the evolution of hip-hop culture.” The Birthplace of Hip Hop tour is a 3-hour bus tour with stops at important hip-hop landmarks that's chock full of anecdotes and is very family-friendly.

Good to know: Pack some snacks to eat along the way and a camera to capture some cool photo-ops.

7. The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Upper East Side

The Metropolitan Museum of Art offers many family-friendly tours daily and most are included with your admission ticket, but if you’d like to be taken to some pieces off the beaten path, book a tour through New York Art Tours. Guests can customize the tour to their family's interests. Guides steer parents to the galleries children might enjoy, though the suggested age is still 10+.

Good to know: If you're visiting with younger kids, start your visit at the 81st Street Studio for open play and to nab a Field Guide and FREE admission to The Met.

RELATED: 23 Secret NYC Spots Kids Love

Scott's Pizza Tours delivers a taste of NYC's trademark dish. 

Foodie Tours in NYC for Families

7. Scott’s Pizza Tours – Multiple Locations

Scott’s Pizza Tours offers various New York City tours for what it calls, “true pizza nerds.” Its Sunday Bus Tour hits four pizzerias in multiple boroughs. If your little ones are dedicated to their pizza nerdom, the Sunday Tour might be the most exciting. If you are looking for more of the “behind-the-scenes” experience, its public walking tours start with a deep look into the kitchen as the pizza gets made. Guests hit three pizzerias in 2 1/2 hours.

Good to know: Kids under 4 can join for FREE, but won't get their own slice. Drinks are also not included.

8. Li-Lac Chocolate Factory – Sunset Park, Brooklyn

Who doesn’t dream of visiting a chocolate factory? When visiting the Li-Lac Chocolate Factory, you’ll get an exclusive peek through the window into the production facility, where you can watch the daily chocolate-making in action. Visit the factory store to buy fresh chocolates made that day or ask for a FREE sample.

Good to know: There's no real tour here; just stop by when you visit the action-packed Industry City. The highlight of this DIY-method is, of course, its cost: FREE!

RELATED: Best Observation Decks in NYC for Kids and Families

You never know what animals you'll meet during a behind-the-scenes Wild Encounter at the Bronx Zoo. 

Behind-the-Scenes Animal Tours in NYC

9. Wild Encounters at the Bronx Zoo – Bronx Park, the Bronx

If you have an animal loved in your family, make your day at the Bronx Zoo extra special by booking a private animal encounter for your family. My family loved doing this, and it’s a memory that is often discussed! Animal encounters range from turtles for the littlest animal fans to giraffes for a family who really wants to splurge! Check the website for current offerings, which include in-person and virtual options, and range from animal meet-and-greets to guided Bronx Zoo tours.

Good to know: Heed the age guidelines when booking or risk being turned away!

10. New York Aquarium Wild Encounters – Coney Island, Brooklyn

If every week is Shark Week in your home, head to the New York Aquarium in Coney Island to enjoy one of its behind-the-scenes tours in NYC. For shark fans, there are two behind-the-scenes tours, including one that includes a shark feeding! You can also go behind the scenes to enjoy experiences with the penguins and the sea lions. For the most affordable option, book yourself a VIP Aquatheater pass for a front-row seat to the recently revamped show.

Good to know: Like the Bronx Zoo, heed the age requirements. Keep in mind, you'll need an appropriate number of adult chaperons, too.

11. Brooklyn Cat Cafe – Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn

Do you have a kitten fanatic? Book a kitten party at the Brooklyn Cat Cafe where you can choose from 30-minute or hour-long encounters. Spend your time cuddling, playing, and taking adorable photos while supporting the cafe and helping socialize the kittens. Good luck going home without one

Good to know: There are sensory-friendly hours on Monday afternoons with dimmed lights, no music, and calm voices encouraged.

Unless noted, all photos by Jody Mercier

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