Whether you live in or are visiting New York City, there are plenty of kids’ activities in Times Square. You don’t need an excuse such as a birthday or other celebration, either. Rather make a list of things to in Times Square with the kids and set off on weekend or summer vacation adventures. Most of these activities are not only fun, they are educational, too, although your kids won’t realize it.

1. Discovery Times Square

If your children are Discovery Channel junkies, they’ll love Discovery Times Square. Filled with unique and interactive presentations, DTS, as it calls itself, is "New York City’s first large-scale exhibition center." You and your kids will love Harry Potter: The Exhibition, Marvel’s AVENGERS S.T.A.T.I.O.N., The Hunger Games: The Exhibition, and many other cultural and historical gems.

2. Hershey’s Times Square

Who doesn’t love Hershey’s chocolate? This American icon has crafted confections since 1894, and Hershey’s Times Square must be added to your list of things to do in the Times Square area. You and the kids can create your own custom mix of your favorite Hershey’s Miniatures from the unbelievable selection inside the store. There is probably Hershey candy you didn’t even know existed!

3. Madame Tussauds in Times Square

When it comes to things to do in Times Square with kids, parents will love this one, too. Madame Tussauds is famous for its lifelike wax figures of the rich and famous at its locations throughout the world. Madame Tussauds in Times Square gives you and your children an opportunity to see your favorite celebrities up close. Nobody will know they’re wax when you show them your selfies!

4. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Be amazed and in some cases grossed out at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! This Times Square attraction for the young and old is home to astonishing artifacts, interactive exhibits and sideshow performances that will amaze and excite. You and the kids will love wandering through the museum’s 18,000 square feet and asking each whether you believe what you see before your eyes. You might not in some cases.

Alongside these four attractions, there are many more things to do in Times Square with the kids. The "city that never sleeps" offers excitement for young and old 24/7, and Times Square is at the heart of it. For those who wish to be guided through the area, put your walking shoes on and sign up for walking tour or hop on one of the double-decker buses. No matter what you do, you’ll have a great time.