Upper West Side Kids

For three weeks in the heat of a New York City summer, young dancers can gain a glimpse of life at one of the finest dance institutes in the world. This program is not for the novice. For teens studying ballet for years, Julliard can take their craft to the next level. There are some limitations on who can apply—at least one year of high school under the belt, and no high school graduates—leaving a range of fifteen- to seventeen-year-olds for a mini-college experience, complete with optional on-campus housing. Students meet in one of Juilliard's six dance studios for classes that combine classic ballet technique and pointe, with training in yoga and improvisation. Camp wraps with a final performance choreographed by Julliard faculty and renowned guest artists. Outside of the studio, there’s plenty of time to explore New York City—an intensive summer experience all on its own.

This interactive museum touches on everything from the science of sleep to jazz. During warmer months, there’s also an outside water park, where kids can sail boats and study erosion through sand. With 38,000 square feet, there’s plenty to keep little ones occupied.

Just across the street from Central Park, this sprawling space—established in 1869—is home to more than 32 million specimens: Enormous dinosaur fossils, a stampede of elephants in the main hall, and a host of gorgeous dioramas are just the start. Post visit, head to Shake Shake across the street for a grilled cheese and milkshake.

These Alice in Wonderland-themed spots are pretty cute (there are now three outposts), making them a great option for a mid-afternoon snack or a birthday party destination. Pioneered by Lauren and Haley Fox, these teashops offer perfectly brewed teas, healthy snacks, and prettily arranged sweets—from cupcakes to cookies. There is a second location on the Upper East Side (on 81st Street), and one on the Upper West Side.

These Alice in Wonderland-themed spots are pretty cute (there are now three outposts), making them a great option for a mid-afternoon snack or a birthday party destination. Pioneered by Lauren and Haley Fox, these teashops offer perfectly brewed teas, healthy snacks, and prettily arranged sweets—from cupcakes to cookies. There are also two locations on the Upper East Side.

This under-the-radar Japanese brand puts out all sorts of cool and totally quirky prints and graphics that are both great and at times hilarious. (I.e., the tag in your toddler's pineapple-printed shorts might read: Big Goals Every Day.) The other big appeal is the cut: The pants and jeans in particular are good for skinnier, harder-to-fit babies and kids. There's also a location in the Financial District and Soho.

Big, bustling, and long-standing, Landmarc is one of those spots that can appease even the fussiest of palettes. Beyond the fact that they're never annoyed by the presence of young ones, they're quick with the crayons and the kid-friendly menu, which includes hits like macaroni and cheese, chicken fingers, and peanut butter and nutella sandwiches. Did we mention they serve cotton candy? Meanwhile, parents will find plenty that appeals, too, as well as a really nice wine list. It's great for groups as the one in the Time Warner Center in particular is huge—and open until 2am. The original is in Tribeca.

The Upper West Side is home to some of the best teaching programs in New York, and with it comes one of the best bookstores for little ones. You’ll find everything from kids classics to the newest and best titles selected by the store’s knowledgeable staff.