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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of UWS

Kid-friendly places

Places that welcome children as part of the neighborhood fabric instead of treating them like a disruption.

Based on 678 Opinions
+675
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Updated May 2026
01
Hands On Hoops image 1
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Sports club

Inclusive sports club builds teamwork and confidence through basketball for kids ages 2 to 17. Coaches use children-sized hoops and fun drills to boost hand-eye coordination and social skills. Sessions focus on growth, resilience, and enjoyment.

Classes use children-sized hoops and focus on basketball basics with patient, enthusiastic coaching. Sessions boost hand-eye coordination, confidence, and social skills while keeping kids engaged and having fun.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly; the coaches are amazing with children."

"The coaches make basketball so fun for the kids."

"The coaches made my son's birthday party so much fun for the kids."

Good to know

1

Hands-On Hoops offers engaging basketball programs for children of all ages.

2

The programs focus on teaching life skills alongside basketball techniques.

3

Pricing for the programs is reasonable and competitive.

02
Virtuoso Resources image 1
Musical instrument store

Tiny shop with high-quality string instruments and walls of autographed photos offers a magical, old New York vibe. Harold helps kids find the right size and teaches them to tune and care for their instruments with patience and knowledge. The space feels like an authentic musical chamber filled with tradition and passion.

Harold helps kids find the right size instrument and sets up tests so they can pick what suits them best. He is patient and knowledgeable, teaching children how to tune and care for their instruments.

People are saying

"Harold made my son's violin introduction easy and exciting."

"Harold makes learning feel comfortable and fun."

"Harold shares interesting stories and personal anecdotes."

Good to know

1

Harold's instruments are known for their good sound quality, ideal for beginners.

2

Rentals for small children are available, and the instruments produce sound.

3

Starter instruments here are comparable to intermediate ones at other shops.

03
Excellence Barber Shop image 1

Bright, clean space with a chill vibe welcomes families. Barbers like George and Isaac offer kid-friendly haircuts and handle toddlers well. Hot towel treatments and neck shaves add care, while fair prices and late Friday hours make visits easy.

Kids get comfortable haircuts with barbers like George and Isaac who listen closely and handle toddlers well. The experience leaves children feeling confident and happy with styles like the Low taper fade.

People are saying

"This barbershop gives the best low fade."

"Isaac's great with kids; my son loved the experience."

"Isaac got my beard trim exactly right."

Good to know

1

The barber shop is open late on Fridays until 8 PM.

2

You receive a punch card with your 10th haircut free.

3

The barber shop on Broadway and 92nd has very fair prices for the Upper West Side.

04
The Paint Place image 1
Painting studio

Painting studio offers intimate group classes with step-by-step guides in a judgment-free zone. Kids enjoy safe, fun camps and family paint sessions. BYOB policy and good music create a relaxed, creative vibe for all ages.

Kids feel safe and cared for during painting sessions and camps. Activities include family free paint classes and mini camps where children create great artwork and enjoy every moment.

People are saying

"The art instructor was so patient and helpful with everyone."

"It's a fun and creative experience with an awesome vibe."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my daughter can't wait to go back!"

Good to know

1

The experience lasts for 2 hours.

2

The class provides everything from canvas to paints and apron.

3

No prior painting experience is necessary.

05
Rito Gelato image 1
Ice cream shop

Gelato shop offers traditional Roman recipes with a cozy vibe and clearly labeled flavors. Staff are friendly and patient, making kids feel special while enjoying the popular Vanilla gelato. Space suits both adults and children comfortably.

Friendly, patient staff make kids feel special and help them pick flavors with big smiles. The space is large enough for both grown-ups and children, and kids love the Vanilla gelato.

People are saying

"The gelato here is amazing, rich, and perfectly creamy."

"The dairy free options here are so creamy and flavorful."

"The gelato here is amazing and the kids loved it."

Good to know

1

Rito Gelato just opened, offering a fresh selection of gelato.

2

The owner makes gelato and sorbet on-site using traditional recipes.

3

Rito Gelato offers about 11 flavors of gelato and many creative sorbet options.

06
Jeffrey Stein Salons at W.86th St image 1

Bright, clean salon offers a welcoming vibe and skilled stylists for quality cuts. Quick appointments make it kid friendly, with Jeff and Mary known for good children's haircuts. Pricing can vary, so watch for inconsistent charges.

Quick appointments accommodate kids needing haircuts. Stylists like Jeff and Mary provide good haircuts for children. Pricing can be inconsistent, with some kids charged more than advertised.

People are saying

"Dorothy and Aneta are amazing stylists and colorists at this hair salon."

"Trish is so caring and accommodating with our kids."

"I always get a relaxing shampoo and head massage here."

Good to know

1

Call ahead for an appointment, especially for same-day services.

2

Expect to pay around $63 for a standard haircut.

3

The salon charges extra fees, including COVID-19 fees in 2023.

07
Mimi's Pizza (Broadway) image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza spot with retro decor and a neon sign offers a chill vibe. Kids love the pepperoni on request and kid-approved cheese slices. Outdoor seating makes it great for families seeking a friendly atmosphere.

A chef adds pepperoni slices on request for kids. Cheese pizza slices come out kid-approved and enjoyed by little ones. Families find the experience welcoming for children.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza was great, truly the best I've had."

"This pizza is incredible, especially the burrata caprese square."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The cost of grandma's style pizza is $3.60 a slice.

2

You don't have to wait on line for this pizza.

3

The delivery time is approximately 30 minutes as promised.

08
Steps On Broadway image 1
Dance school

Dance school offers world-class instruction with a nurturing atmosphere for kids aged 8 to 10. Inspiring teachers like Suzi Taylor lead classes booked easily via app. Beautiful studios support both in-person and virtual learning.

Classes focus on dance growth for kids aged 8 to 10 with inspiring instructors like Suzi Taylor. All sessions require prior evaluation and are booked through an app for easy drop-in access.

People are saying

"The dance classes here are amazing and enriching."

"It's a top-notch experience with phenomenal, friendly faculty."

"The fun activities here are inviting and judgment-free."

Good to know

1

The follow-up Q/A session allows prospective students to ask questions.

2

Steps on Broadway offers high-quality virtual classes for remote learners.

3

The elevator is currently out of service, making access difficult for strollers.

09
Soccer Post Upper West Side image 1

Gorgeous store offers great soccer gear and clothes with a wide catalog of shoes and jerseys. Bilingual staff engage kids directly, making them feel like superstars and providing hard-to-find cleats. Shopping can be tricky due to missing price tags and scattered products, but a points system adds value.

Staff engage directly with kids about soccer, making them feel like superstars. The store carries specific cleats and gear in sizes that are hard to find elsewhere, supporting young players' needs well.

People are saying

"The staff here is so helpful and knowledgeable about kids' soccer needs."

"The staff at this footwear store are super helpful and knowledgeable."

"The cafe latte with a donut and cookie was delicious."

Good to know

1

Upper90 often does not have size US 10 boots in stock.

2

The store is not the easiest to shop in due to the lack of price tags on many shoes.

3

There are no prices on the shoes.

10
Crossbar - Coffee, Food, Soccer image 1

Indoor space blends soccer-themed decor with a kid-friendly pitch where toddlers play safely. Birthday parties feature a coach skilled with kids and food suits all ages. Cozy vibe with free WiFi and multiple TVs keeps adults relaxed while children enjoy active fun.

A small pitch downstairs offers toddlers a safe spot to run and kick balls, including a very large football. Birthday parties happen here with a coach who works well with kids, and the food has many options for both adults and children.

People are saying

"It's a kid-friendly spot with a small pitch for live sports."

"I thought the coffee here was excellent and well balanced."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a small pitch for children to play."

Good to know

1

Toddler open play is available on weekdays from 9am to 12pm.

2

Trivia night happens every Thursday at 8pm.

3

On Saturday, the bar/cafe hosts comedy nights.

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The Wallace image 1

Spacious rooms blend modern classic style with smart tech like button-controlled shades. Staff treat toddlers like family, making it very kid friendly. Quiet lounges with a gas fireplace and live jazz create a relaxed vibe.

Staff treat toddlers like family every day. Staying on the ground floor helps avoid elevators, which is great when traveling with little kids. The team is super friendly to families and children.

People are saying

"The hotel staff are so friendly and welcoming."

"It's a quiet refuge, a welcome contrast to the city's chaos."

"The staff here is so friendly and accommodating to kids."

Good to know

1

The hotel is located just blocks from Central Park and two subway entrances.

2

Parking validation is available at the reception for guests.

3

Expect construction noise starting as early as 8am from the neighboring site.

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Lush Cosmetics Upper West Side image 1

Bright colors and sweet scents create a candy store atmosphere that delights kids and adults alike. Birthday parties feature bath bomb making and creative activities led by caring staff. Emphasis on cruelty-free products and sustainable values makes it a wholesome, fun spot for families.

Birthday parties include bath bomb making, soap crafting, and facials for kids. Staff lead creative activities like scavenger hunts and help with decorations. The atmosphere has positive vibes that engage both children and adults.

People are saying

"The staff's energy and passion made the party experience smooth and easy."

"They helped with fun activities like scavenger hunts and bath bomb making."

"This place is so kid-friendly, they host amazing birthday parties with engaging all day."

Good to know

1

The venue hosts kids' birthday parties with fun activities.

2

You can bring lunch and cake to the birthday party.

3

Activities include making bath bombs, soap, and facial scrubs.

13
Bareburger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Cozy space offers a family-friendly vibe with chic decor and soft music. Staff provide kid-sized straws and allergy-friendly meals, making kids feel special. Bar serves gluten-free beers alongside handcrafted burgers for a relaxed, tasty experience.

Staff provide thoughtful accommodations like kid-sized straws and allergy-friendly options. Kids enjoy nuggets and feel well cared for with personalized service that makes them feel special.

People are saying

"I found the burgers here juicy and delicious."

"The gluten-free options here are plentiful and amazing."

"My kids loved the smash burgers and chicken nuggets here."

Good to know

1

The $1 PBR happy hour is from 12-7 PM, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant offers a BOGO Taco Tuesday deal.

3

They have specials during the week, including tacos on Tuesdays and ice cream sundaes on Sundays.

14
The Consulate UWS image 1
French restaurant

French-style restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere with comfortable outdoor seating and live music. Kids love the short rib cavatelli and mushroom flatbread, while adults enjoy perfectly crafted cocktails. The vibe blends humble class with an international feel, great for both families and date nights.

Kids enjoy the short rib cavatelli and mushroom flatbread, with options like fish and chips also available. The atmosphere balances being welcoming for kids and relaxing for adults.

People are saying

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and warm service."

"The cocktails here are beautiful and perfectly balanced."

"Our server Bibi was so welcoming and charming to our kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3:30 to 6 PM, available only at the bar.

2

The happy hour menu features seafood options at decent prices.

3

Brunch is only available before 3:30 PM.

15
Mochi Dolci image 1
Restaurant

Pastel colors and artificial cherry blossoms create a fun, photo-friendly space. Kids love boba milk teas and donuts during birthday parties. A vintage speakeasy behind a pink phone booth adds a laid-back vibe for all ages.

Birthday parties happen here with kids enjoying the space. Boba milk teas and donuts serve as popular treats for children during visits.

People are saying

"These mochi donuts have an excellent bouncy texture and taste."

"The speakeasy room was great for karaoke with my group."

"The donuts and boba here are delicious and Kid Friendly."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts around midnight on Thursdays, so plan accordingly.

2

The venue accommodates large groups well, making it great for parties.

3

Expect higher drink prices compared to other places in the area.

16
5 Napkin Burger image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Hamburger spot shines with spacious seating and a large bar area for a lively vibe. Kids enjoy Celiac-safe meals and friendly staff like Jack and Andres who make birthdays special. Unique decor like meat hooks adds a fun twist to the atmosphere.

Kids get excellent meals including options safe for Celiac needs. Staff like Jack and Andres offer warm, patient service and celebrate occasions like birthdays with the kids.

People are saying

"The burgers here are served with a smile and friendly attention."

"The food here is fantastic and very unique."

"The staff is so patient and sweet with kids."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm and after 9pm, with a limited menu during those times.

2

The happy hour includes $8 wings and sliders.

3

The happy hour offers $10 Titoโ€™s martinis.

17
Salli B Salon image 1
Hair salon

Salon shines with a bright, spacious setting and a warm, welcoming vibe. Staff bring fun, thoughtful energy and excel with long, thick, curly hair. Kids feel special as staff remember them and create a personal touch.

Staff remember kids and ask about them, creating a personal touch. They handle long thick hair and different textures like curly hair well.

People are saying

"This hair salon fixes color damage like magic."

"They did my kid's long thick hair and my partner's short cut."

"Daniel gives the best blowouts and is lovely to spend time with."

Good to know

1

New customers receive 15% off their first visit.

2

Salli B salon has last minute availability before they close at 6pm.

3

Santa is skilled at styling both straight and curly hair.

18
Barnes & Noble image 1
Book store

Spacious bookstore offers a quiet atmosphere perfect for reading and browsing. Kids enjoy a large selection of books and toys like Lego and Harry Potter. Cozy cafe seating invites relaxation with coffee and books.

A large selection of kids' books and toys like Lego and Harry Potter lets children explore and choose what they want. The space supports quiet reading and encourages kids to interact and preview items before buying.

People are saying

"It's a peaceful, quiet reading spot to escape the city noise."

"This bookstore has an extensive, well-organized selection of books."

"It's so kid friendly with a vast selection of books and toys."

Good to know

1

Bathrooms are locked and only available to customers with a purchase receipt.

2

The washroom is located on level 2 in the kids section.

3

The store is closing on January 14, 2024.

19
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store buzzes with specialty cheeses and coffee aroma. Kids love plain bagels and free smoked salmon samples. Upstairs, find an extensive gourmet cookware selection in a place with old-world charm.

Kids enjoy plain bagels with butter and black and white cookies here. Free smoked salmon samples make it easy to keep little ones happy while shopping.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"The grocery store has a huge variety of specialty items and fresh food."

"It's so kid friendly, my daughter loved their brownies."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

20
Maison Pickle image 1
American restaurant

Small space with stylish layout and multiple bars creates a lively atmosphere. Staff show respect and love to children, offering a quieter area near the bar for families with toddlers. Noise and close seating make conversation tough, but indoor and outdoor options stay comfortable.

Staff show respect and love to children, including those with special needs. The setting offers a quieter area next to the bar, which suits families with toddlers better than the busy main dining floor.

People are saying

"The American food here has huge portions, I had to take leftovers home."

"The French toast here is like having dessert."

"The French toast and garlic bread are perfect for kids."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for visiting on a Friday night.

2

The restaurant serves brunch every day.

3

Go on wine Wednesdays for the best deals.

21
Tacombi image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious Mexican spot boasts large outdoor seating under a circus tent and a lively atmosphere with infectious music. Staff are patient and engage kids with chef hats, making it very kid friendly. Known for authentic tacos and spicy margaritas, it offers a casual vibe indoors and out.

Staff show great patience with kids, even handling accidents calmly. Servers engage children by giving them chef hats and chatting, making the place very welcoming for families.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tasted just like grandma's."

"I found the tacos here to be delicious and flavorful."

"The staff made my kids feel extra special and were very kind."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is from 4-7 PM Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant has a two for one taco special on Tuesdays.

3

The micheladas during happy hour were $5.

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Upper West Side, New York

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