Upper West Side Family Guide: Kid-Friendly Spots
The Upper West Side is one of New York City’s most family-friendly neighborhoods. With its beautiful parks, world-class museums, and residential feel, it’s an ideal place to explore with children. From toddlers to teens, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy.
Here is your guide to the best kid-friendly spots on the Upper West Side.
World-Class Museums
The UWS is home to a stretch of museums perfect for curious kids.
- American Museum of Natural History: This is the ultimate kid-friendly museum. The towering dinosaur skeletons in the Hall of Saurischian Dinosaurs are a must-see. The Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, with its giant blue whale, is equally breathtaking. Plan to spend several hours here.
- Children’s Museum of Manhattan: Geared towards younger children (ages 0-6), this museum is all about interactive, hands-on exhibits that encourage play and learning.
- New-York Historical Society: While it may sound dry, this museum has excellent programming for families and a dedicated children’s history museum in its basement.
Parks and Playgrounds
The neighborhood is flanked by two of the city’s best parks.
- Central Park: The UWS side of Central Park is full of attractions, including the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre, the playgrounds at Heckscher and Diana Ross, and the beautiful Shakespeare Garden.
- Riverside Park: This waterfront park offers miles of paths for biking and strolling, as well as numerous playgrounds, including the popular and whimsical Hippo Playground at 91st Street.
Where to Eat
The UWS has plenty of casual, family-friendly dining options.
- Shake Shack: A guaranteed crowd-pleaser with its delicious burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
- Flor de Mayo: This local favorite serves a unique and delicious blend of Chinese and Peruvian food. It’s casual, affordable, and beloved by local families.
- Zabar’s: An iconic NYC food emporium. While not a sit-down restaurant, you can grab classic New York bagels with lox and cream cheese for a perfect picnic in Central Park.
The Upper West Side’s combination of culture, green space, and residential calm makes it one of the best family-friendly neighborhoods in the city.
