The Upper West Side of New York is one of the most-storied neighborhoods in a city laden with storied neighborhoods. From the wealth of culinary and cultural attractions to the various shopping and entertainment choices, there isn’t much more one could ask from a metropolitan enclave, especially when you factor in all of the kid-friendly options.
For those visiting or considering a move to the Big Apple, stunning condo buildings like The Astor are contemporizing the sophistication and grandeur of the cities Gilded Age for a new era, as the urban tapestry of the UWS has enticingly become a perfect destination for families.
So, let’s run through some kid-approved options for spending a day on the Upper West Side.
Explore the American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most vibrant museums on the planet, it’s as renowned a cultural institution as there is. Kids will love exploring the over 2 million square feet and learning about prehistoric creatures and the history of life on earth. Moreover, many kid-friendly exhibitions are interactive, so it’s not just about walking around a looking at things. They offer a series of great tours including the Night At The Museum Tour, which takes you through exhibits featured in the film series.
Lunch at Serafina
Serafina is a quaint, kid-friendly, Italian eatery overflowing with charm. It’s one of those places that are able to be kid-friendly and yet still rather elegant. Their thin-crust pizzas are well known in the area, as are their fresh salads and pasta dishes. It’s an ideal way to spark off an afternoon of cultural, historical and retail exploration!
Shop at Barney’s New York
When it comes to designer department stores, many would say Barney’s is the king of kings, or queen of queens, whichever you prefer. If your kids are a bit older and enjoy some retail therapy, Barney’s is a premier destination right in the neighborhood. Whether perusing or purchasing, it’s one of the most intriguing department stores in the city, and it has something for everyone.
Dinner at RedFarm
RedFarm is a kid-friendly, Asian-fusion restaurant, a combo that is not easy to find. If your kids are adventurous eaters, this is the place to go. They serve 12 different types of dumplings and as far as our experience they are all delicious. Their entrees include a series of different pork, chicken and eggplant dishes all inventively prepared. Introduce the kids to something new.
Catch a Show at the Beacon
Certain shows at the Beacon are not family-friendly, but they do often host kids shows, like the Wild Kratts Live show. A good plan of action would be to check the calendar, find the show you want to see and plan the aforementioned events as a precursor to the show. Piggybacking cultural experiences is never a bad thing.
Dessert at 16 Handles
We’re not quite done yet. We couldn’t end a day like this without dessert. Virtually right next door to the Beacon is frozen-yogurt haven 16 Candles with sixteen different flavors from Peanut Butter Perfection and Graham Cracker to Birthday Cake and Oh My, Pumpkin Pie ensure that even the pickiest child will find something to love here. Grab a cup or a cone for the walk home with a cherry on the sundae to end a perfect day exploring, the Upper West Side of NYC.
