Where to stay family friendly

We (husb and 8 yr old) are arriving in NY 14th April for 8 days we want to go to Niagara Falls in that time see the Guggenheim etc but have absolutely no idea about areasto stay etc. Anywhere that has public transport is ok. Reas hotel ideally one with a kids program where we could do adult things for a couple of half days and he could get some kid time and relief from exclusive adult company, but i suspect these may be only offered in v exp hotels is this right. We will have already been on hols 14 days. Have been advised to fly niagara and train back wher should we fly to? Would you think this is good idea. Any suggestions for kids/families to do or not would be good. Is the City Pass good value. Any help appreciated

Where to stay family friendly

Whoa. Lots of questions. To my knowledge there are NO hotels in NYC that provide any ';kids programs.'; Here%26#39;s a link to kidstuff from NY Magazine

nymetro.com/urban/guides/family/index.htm

There may be some ideas for things he could do for a few hours. Chelsea Piers is a huge sports complex that may have lessons or things he could do for a few hours (chelseapiers.com) Central Park may have some ranger walks (centralpark.org)

Some of the museums have kids programs. Look at the Museum of Natural History and the Metropolitan.

Most kids love staying in the Times Square area (the Doubletree Suites Hotel is well liked there for families. But you may find staying in more of a residential area like the upper west side is more kid friendly. Check out the Beacon and the Milburn. Both offer rooms with a bit more space and kitchenettes.

As to Niagara Falls, I agree flying is best. You could fly to Buffalo on Jet Blue (a discount carrier) and then rent a car.

The City Pass is good value if you planned on doing most of what they offer anyway. Be aware that while it includes general admission to the Mus. of Nat. History, it doesn%26#39;t include the IMAX movie or the science center.