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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Riverside's best

Kid-friendly cool spots

Made for those who want to introduce their children to interesting spaces without sacrificing their own sense of style.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated April 2026
01
Riverside Game Lab image 1
Riverside Game Lab image 2
Riverside Game Lab image 3
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Video arcade

Arcade space combines vintage pinball rooms, modern VR games, and a full bar for a lively mix. Atmosphere stays loud and dark, with a clean environment and an adult vibe. Visitors range from kids to adults, enjoying classic and cutting-edge games in private booths or open areas.

Arcade games from childhood create a fun experience for kids and adults alike. Kids have a blast playing classic games alongside adults.

Retro arcade games create a cool vibe with old school gameplay and neat decor. It offers a fun spot to hang out, play games, and enjoy drinks.

People are saying

"It's a cool spot with a great collection of pinball machines."

"It's really Kid Friendly; my kids had a blast playing games."

"It's a cool arcade with lots of retro games."

Good to know

1

Parking costs only $5 and is super close.

2

The policy change now excludes minors from visiting Riverside Game Lab.

3

They offered a Happy Hour when they opened, during which the credits to play were halved.

02
Stray Dogs Coffee image 1

Minimalist coffee shop with bright spacious interior and dog-friendly atmosphere welcomes both people and pets. Ample seating options include large tables, cozy corners, and outdoor spots, creating a relaxed vibe. Decor features Polaroids of visiting dogs and farm-style touches, adding charm to the space.

Ample space includes about 10 large tables with 4 seats each and a cozy corner for kids. A custom strawberry milk offers a flavorful option for children.

A very cool vibe fills the space, enhanced by an acoustic guitar available for anyone to play. The atmosphere feels relaxed and inviting.

People are saying

"The corndog latte was heavenly and a great new flavor."

"It's so Kid Friendly with a cozy corner for kids."

"The vibe here is so cool, with couches and a guitar to play."

Good to know

1

Stray Dogs Coffee hosts worship nights monthly.

2

They cater parties and events with a coffee cart.

3

Parking can be challenging; street parking is available on 2nd Street.

03
Taco Station image 1
Mexican restaurant

Gas station-themed Mexican restaurant offers an open outdoor area with a large patio and outside bar featuring live music and a massive drink selection. Atmosphere is fun and inviting, with heaters and misters making it comfortable year-round. Vintage gas pumps and car-shaped topiary add unique charm to the setting.

The place has a gas station theme that appeals to kids, especially those interested in automotives. It offers a kid-friendly menu with items like carne asada burritos and nopales breakfast that children enjoy.

An Automotive Service Shop theme sets a unique and cool atmosphere. The building and vibe stand out as a cool taco spot with a distinct style.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has a cool vintage service station theme."

"The outdoor seating has a fun, funky decor with old gas pumps."

"It's a really kid-friendly spot, especially with the gas station theme."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday features discounted tacos and is popular among locals.

2

Happy hour offers half-price drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

04
Palenque kitchen by Mezcal image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant combines dark, lively interior with two dance floors and a central bar. Music energizes the space, creating a family-friendly yet vibrant atmosphere. Colored lighting and Mexican art add to the trendy, festive vibe.

Staff offer creative suggestions with appropriate portions for kids and listen carefully to all requests. The menu includes a generous portion of quesadilla with rice and beans and enough variety so every child finds something appealing.

A cool vibe fills the space with a pretty cool atmosphere. Salsa and bachata dancing on Tuesday nights add a unique energy to the place.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really good."

"The kids' burritos were a hit, and the churros are phenomenal!"

"I loved the cool vibe and atmosphere here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6:30 PM with $10 margaritas and discounted appetizers.

2

Palenque offers bottomless mimosas on Sundays.

3

The restaurant has only one restroom for all guests.

05
Yoli's Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space with authentic decor and Catrina theme creates a welcoming, homely atmosphere. Loud jukebox music adds energy while tables remain intimate and cozy. Strong, varied margaritas and Paloma flights stand out as signature drinks.

Kids get well-treated and enjoy simple dishes like rice and beans and a basic burrito meal. The birria taco and consomรฉ also appeal to younger tastes.

Cool decor sets the tone with unique decorations. The overall vibe feels enjoyable and the ambience stays consistently great.

People are saying

"Their homemade salsas are an absolute must-try."

"The rice and beans were delicious and well-prepared for the kids."

"The mole sauce here is so sweet and flavorful, it tastes like candy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of two hours during busy lunch hours, especially after church.

2

Chips and salsa are not complimentary and must be paid for.

3

A mandatory gratuity charge applies for parties of 5 or more.

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