The Ultimate Guide to New York City With Toddlers

Believe it or not, New York City is a great place to bring your kids! I’ve taken my daughter several times, and each trip, I make sure to cater my itinerary to her interests. Thankfully, New York City has tons of things for everyone to enjoy. So whether I bring her or not, it’s always a good time. Keep reading the ultimate guide to New York City with toddlers where I’ll share tips on where to stay, packing essentials, must visit attractions and more to help you prepare for a family trip to the Big Apple!

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Planning Your Trip

Choosing the Right Time to Visit

New York City is an amazing city to visit all year round. My favorite times to visit are during the Spring and Autumn when the weather is nice and comfortable; especially perfect for days your little ones want to spend the day outdoors.

You may also consider visiting during the holiday season to see the beautiful decorations around the city, but keep in mind the extra layers you will have to bring. Summers are hot and more crowded, making it uncomfortable and possibly harder to navigate with a stroller.

Accommodation Tips

I highly recommend staying near a subway station if you plan to use public transportation. Choose family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals that provide amenities like cribs, high chairs, and kitchenettes to make your stay more convenient.

For your convenience, pick a location that’s central to the activities you have planned. This way, you can easily pop back to your accommodation for naps or meals, helping you keep your toddler’s schedule on track. I recommend staying in the Upper West Side, Midtown Manhattan, or Queens. These areas offer easy access to parks and attractions while being relatively quieter.

Transportation Tips

Navigating New York City with a stroller can be tough. The subway is extensive and my preferred method of transportation, but not always stroller-friendly due to many stations not having elevators. To manage, you will have to use accessible stations or avoid the subway.

Buses and taxis offer a more flexible alternative to the subway, especially if you’re traveling with a stroller. Buses typically have designated spaces for strollers and are generally more accessible. However, they can be subject to traffic delays and route changes, so it’s wise to plan for some extra travel time. Taxis and ride-shares like Lyft and Uber are convenient, but you might face challenges with availability during peak hours and potential congestion.

Bringing a lightweight, foldable stroller can make navigating the city transportation easier. These strollers are easier to maneuver and collapse quickly, which is handy for getting on and off public transportation.

Essential Packing List

Toddler Necessities

Diaper Bags Essentials: diapers, wipes, and a changing mat to change your toddler while you’re out and about.

Snacks: A variety of snacks to keep your toddler happy on the go. Long waits and unexpected delays can be much more manageable.

Toys: Don’t forget a few favorite toys or comfort items to help soothe your child. I recommend only bringing easy-to-wash toys in case your toddler drops their toy on the ground!

A Good Travel Stroller: Invest in a high-quality, lightweight, and collapsible travel stroller. This type of stroller is incredibly useful for navigating busy streets and public transportation, and it’s easy to stow away in restaurants or other crowded spaces.

Baby Carrier: A comfortable carrier allows hands-free carrying and easier navigation.

Weather Considerations

New York City weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers. For summer, lightweight clothing and sunscreen are essential, while winter requires warm coats, hats, and gloves. Always check the weather forecast before you leave to ensure you’re prepared for any conditions.

Must-Visit Attractions

Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Central Park: This iconic park is a must-visit for families. There are many toddler-friendly areas like the Central Park Zoo, the Alice in Wonderland statue, and the numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the park.

Lego Land New York: While not a park in the traditional sense, Lego Land New York offers scenic strolls and plenty of kid-friendly attractions. It’s a great place for families to explore and enjoy interactive exhibits designed for young children.

Hunter’s Point South Park: is my go-to spot to take my daughter out to play. Located in Long Island City, it’s perfect for letting your little ones play while enjoying stunning views of the New York skyline. It’s also super convenient since the ferry stop is just a short walk away, making it easy to add a boat ride to your day!

Museums and Educational Spots

Children’s Museum of Manhattan: This spot is perfect for young kids with its interactive exhibits and play areas designed to both engage and educate. It’s a fun, hands-on experience that’s sure to captivate little ones.

American Museum of Natural History: If you’re looking for an alternative to the zoo, this museum is a great choice. Its vast array of exhibits, including impressive dinosaur skeletons and dioramas, offers a fascinating glimpse into the natural world.

New York Hall of Science: Located in Queens, this museum is perfect for curious kids who love science and technology. With over 450 interactive exhibits, it makes a great experience for the whole family.

Fun and Entertainment

Coney Island: If your trip is during the warmer months, Coney Island’s amusement park offers rides suitable for young children, and the beach provides a great place to unwind.

FAO Schwarz: For a truly magical experience, check out FAO Schwarz, the iconic toy store. It’s not just a shopping trip; it’s an experience with giant stuffed animals, interactive displays, and toys that will make any kid’s eyes light up.

Sporting Event: New York City has ten professional sports teams between baseball, basketball, football, soccer, and hockey. Sporting events are an awesome experience for adults and children alike! And in New York, you can experience it year round!

Family-Friendly Dining

• Alice’s Tea Cup: (Upper West Side) A whimsical tea room with a fairy-tale theme, perfect for kids who enjoy a bit of magic with their meal. They offer a menu of kid-friendly items like sandwiches, scones, and pancakes.
• Serendipity 3: (Upper East Side) Famous for its over-the-top desserts and quirky atmosphere, Serendipity 3 is great for families. The menu includes kid-friendly classics like burgers and fries, as well as their renowned Frozen Hot Chocolate.
• Eataly: (Flatiron and Downtown) An Italian marketplace with multiple dining options, including pizza, pasta, and gelato. Eataly’s casual and lively atmosphere makes it easy for families to enjoy a variety of dishes.
• Joe’s Pizza: (Greenwich Village and multiple locations) A NYC institution, Joe’s Pizza offers delicious, classic New York-style pizza that’s sure to please kids and adults alike. The casual setting is perfect for a quick, family-friendly meal.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

Plan Flexible Itineraries: Allow for a relaxed schedule with plenty of breaks to prevent overstimulation. Avoid packing too many activities into one day.

Choose Convenient Accommodations: Stay in family-friendly hotels or vacation rentals near subway stations and attractions to make getting around easier.

Pack Smart: Bring essentials like diapers, wipes, snacks, and a good travel stroller. Include familiar toys and comfort items to help your toddler feel secure.

Utilize Public Transportation: NYC’s subway system is efficient and can be a great way to navigate the city. A collapsible stroller will make it easier to get on and off public transport.

Visit Kid-Friendly Spots: Plan visits to attractions like Central Park, children’s museums, and interactive exhibits that are tailored to young kids.

Prepare for Crowds: NYC can be busy, so be ready for crowds and plan visits to popular spots during off-peak times when possible.

Keep Hydrated and Fed: Carry a reusable water bottle and snacks to keep your toddler hydrated and satisfied throughout the day.

Be Ready for the Weather: Check the weather forecast and dress your toddler in layers to stay comfortable in varying temperatures.

Know Where to Find Help: Familiarize yourself with nearby restrooms, baby-changing facilities, and emergency contacts in case of any issues.

Stay Calm and Positive: Embrace the adventure with a positive attitude, and remember that flexibility and patience will help make the experience enjoyable for everyone.