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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in New Haven

Kid-friendly places with parking

Getting the kids out of the house is easier when there is a guaranteed place to park.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01
JR's Barbershop image 1
JR's Barbershop image 2
JR's Barbershop image 3
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Barber shop

Barbershop offers a clean, organized space with ridiculous hairstyle decorations on the walls. The atmosphere stays lively and welcoming, filled with upbeat Spanish conversation and music. It maintains a family-friendly, smoke-free environment with easy parking and accessible location.

Easy access to traffic and a huge parking lot behind the shop make parking simple. Parking spots are usually available without hassle.

Staff shows great patience and friendliness with kids. Haircuts for children come out well done and enjoyable.

People are saying

"Ferny's barbershop skills always give me the sharpest blade."

"It's so kid friendly; the barbers are patient and great with them."

"There's a huge parking lot in the back, so parking is easy."

Good to know

1

Booking an appointment is recommended to avoid long wait times.

2

Cash is needed for tipping as credit cards are not accepted for tips.

3

There is ample parking available in the back of the barbershop.

02
Olmo image 1
Bagel shop

Small bagel shop with modern kiosks and organized ordering system creates an electric, friendly atmosphere despite its crowded, compact space. Outdoor seating offers a cute, welcoming spot for dining with dogs. Bagels here are widely regarded as the best in the area.

Parking varies from easy to difficult early in the morning. Paid lots and calling ahead for curbside pickup help manage the situation.

Staff watch kids closely and meet them at the counter for pickup. They show kindness and go above and beyond with children. Kids enjoy treats like bagels and babka, sometimes so much it leads to memorable moments like losing a tooth.

People are saying

"I thought Olmo had the best bagels in New Haven."

"The bagels here are so delicious, the kids said they were the best ever."

"Parking was easy, it didn't stop me from my mission."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak morning hours.

2

Ordering ahead is advised due to high demand in the mornings.

3

The establishment has outdoor seating only, so dress accordingly for the weather.

03
East Rock Park image 1

Park offers panoramic city views and overlooks Long Island Sound from a summit with a castle monument. Atmosphere stays peaceful and quiet, ideal for relaxing walks and family visits. Amenities include picnic tables, grills, and a playground with a large sand area.

Parking includes a small lot at the park entrance and a limited summit lot. An additional overflow lot is available if the summit area fills up.

Trails at the park are kid friendly and easy to walk, suitable for little kids and families. A winding, scenic road leads to the top, accessible for those with limited mobility or young children.

People are saying

"The view from the top is amazing, especially of New Haven."

"You can drive up and park at the top during summer hours."

"The even, paved trails here are really kid friendly."

Good to know

1

East Rock Park is free to enter.

2

Parking is extremely limited, so arrive early.

3

You can only hike up East Rock; no driving allowed.

04
The Mead Visitor Center image 1

Small building resembles a private house with striking architecture and beautiful campus views. Atmosphere feels reserved and unwelcoming, especially for families with children. Guided tours offer detailed historical narratives about the university and access to restricted areas.

Street parking sits right outside the visitor center, making it easy to find and convenient for quick stops.

The place feels unwelcoming for kids and lacks accommodations for families. It does not offer a kid-friendly atmosphere or activities suitable for children.

People are saying

"I learned so much about the history of this prestigious school from a student guide."

"The staff here are so friendly and knowledgeable."

"Parking is easy to find right out front."

Good to know

1

Parking is easy to find in front of the visitor center on the street.

2

You can sign up online on their website for the guided tour.

3

The tour lasted about an hour and included walking through the campus with historical stories.

05
Lighthouse Point Park image 1

City park offers serene waterfront views with a historic carousel and family-friendly playgrounds. Atmosphere shifts from peaceful mornings to lively areas with groups playing music. Spacious grounds provide a relaxing beach setting ideal for quiet moments or casual gatherings.

Ample parking exists for visitors and trucks with boat trailers. Free parking is available during the off-season, though a parking fee applies at times.

Playground and splash pad offer fun and cooling off for kids. A nostalgic carousel and small fountain add charm and joy for all ages.

People are saying

"The beach here is nice, clean, and has beautiful views."

"The playground and splash pad are perfect for kids."

"I paid $30 for parking, which felt steep."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $25 for Connecticut vehicles and $30 for out-of-state cars.

2

The carousel closes at 4 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect busy crowds in the summer due to the splash pad and carousel.

06
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Warehouse-like layout forms a labyrinth with modern furniture displays arranged in real-world setups. Quiet atmosphere prevails, especially during weekdays, with a spacious cafeteria offering simple, inexpensive food options and a kids play area. Free coffee for rewards members and a last chance room near registers add to the practical shopping experience.

Large parking lot offers plenty of spaces with short-term spots near the entrance for quick pickups. Parking stays convenient even during busy times.

A spacious cafeteria offers tables for kids and a TV for kids to watch. Food options include meatballs popular with kids and choices better than typical fast food.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious Swedish meatballs."

"I found the furniture and decor to be so affordable and stylish."

"You'll find plenty of parking available here."

Good to know

1

The kids indoor playground is available Monday to Friday from noon till 5 pm.

2

IKEA often runs out of popular items, so check inventory online before visiting.

3

Expect delivery issues; many items may not arrive as ordered.

07
IL GABBIANO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers beautiful water views and a warm, inviting atmosphere with a balance of elegance and comfort. Live Italian music and outdoor seating enhance the experience, creating a lively and enjoyable setting. Handmade pasta and fresh seafood add to the distinctive dining environment.

Plenty of parking spots make access simple. The large parking lot supports easy arrival and quick seating.

Staff attentiveness shows when servers quickly replace dropped utensils and engage kids by taking pictures. The owner creates a warm atmosphere that makes family visits special, like birthday celebrations. Kids' meals, such as chicken tenders and fries, can take up to an hour to arrive.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and satisfying."

"The service here is so attentive, it's practically kid friendly."

"I found parking was easy and there was plenty available."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 2 to 5 pm with discounted drinks and small plates.

2

Reservations are recommended for outdoor seating, especially during peak hours.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during events, which may affect service times.

08
Louis' Lunch image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small, historic hamburger spot with timeless charm and generations-old graffiti on wood surfaces. Atmosphere feels like stepping back to the 1800s, packed and cozy with standing room only. Burgers cook on a cast-iron griddle visible to diners, preserving traditional preparation.

Convenient parking sits right next door with paid options that are dirt cheap.

Kids enjoy the classic burgers here, which stay true to their original style. The place welcomes families and offers a simple, satisfying meal for children.

People are saying

"You have to try the original hamburger sandwich here."

"It's so Kid Friendly, you can see the original grill from the 1800s!"

"I found street parking available or a lot right behind the place."

Good to know

1

Louis' Lunch does not serve fries or ketchup, only their traditional burger.

2

There is a small free parking lot behind Louis' Lunch.

3

Expect long wait times during peak hours due to popularity.

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New Haven, Connecticut

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