New York General Travel Tips

1. You wouldn't think it, but NYC is actually one of the most baby-friendly cities I have been to, perhaps because it has to cater to the needs of its diverse population. Despite the fact that the city is big and intimidating to most, you can find tiny oasis of child-friendly activities scatter throughout the island of Manhattan. Further, since this is the retail capital of the States, there is nothing you can't find in New York, no matter how rare or weird.

2. Transportation in NY is fairly easy: the subway connects most destinations and is handicap-accessible at most stations, taxis are easy to come by and fairly reasonable, and the numbered streets are simple to stroll through. You do not need car seats in NY taxis but make sure to buckle up because NY has some of the worst traffic and drivers in the country. Buses are available as well, but are harder because they can get pretty crowded and you have to do the whole stroller-folding thing.

3. Basic baby supplies are available at Duane Reade, which you will come across at practically every block, CVS pharmacies, and major supermarkets, D'Agostino and The Associated. And of course because this is New York, specialty stores will take care of the rest.

4. Every cuisine in the world is available in NY, including vegetarian, vegan and organic options. No dearth of variety here.

Other posts in the New York City series:

New York, United States: Must-Visit Toy Stores

New York, United States: The Best Kids' Bookstore Ever!

New York, United States: Our Favorite City Playgrounds and So Much More..

New York, United States: Fabulously Friendly Brunches

New York, United States: 10 Reasons We Love Bryant Park

New York, United States: 2 Kid-Friendly Daytime Itineraries (Tourist and Non)

New York can be a bit overwhelming if it's your first time. Here are a couple of kid-friendly itineraries to help you navigate the maze that is the Big Apple:

Itinerary 1 : The Tourist Route:

• Start the day with a gander down to Bryant Park. Grab a mid-morning snack and coffee at the grill upstairs
• Fuel up and get ready to hit up Toys-R-Us in Times Square
• Walk up Broadway and marvel at the lights while baby takes a nap in the stroller
• End up at Central Park and veg out for a bit. Hit up the Victorian Gardens amusement park for some  fun rides
• Have a coffee at the Time Warner Center
• Walk over to FAO Schwarz and check out the cool toys
• Head home for detox from toy overload before getting a babysitter for the night

 Itinerary 2 : The Non-Tourist Route

• Check out the kiddy boutiques on Thompson street in Soho. Bundles and Les Petits Chapelais are worth a visit.
• Have brunch at the famous Balthazar if you are looking for a scene, or at Jane's at W. Houston if you are feeling more casual
• Walk up to 18th Street (about 30 mins) while baby snoozes to Books of Wonder. Have a coffee and cupcake while checking out the literary treasures there
• Head out to Madison Square Park for some water play and tire swinging
• Head home and unwind for the night

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New York, United States: The Best Kids' Bookstore Ever!

The Scholastic in Soho usually gets a lot of props in this category but we have fallen in love with Books of Wonder on W.18th street. This little gem showcases a specialization and quirkiness that only NY can pull off. Categories include Classic Picture Books, Modern Picture Books with titles like Monsters Eat Whiny Children and My Working Mom, People and Places with John's Secret Dreams: The John Lennon Story (which I bought), Old and Rare Books, and the unbeatable 50% off rack where I found Mummy Never Told Me,which has become my personal favorite. The shop carries collectors editions of classics like The Very Hungry Caterpillar and other museum-worthy jewels. The store also has an amazing collection of vintage art, all pertaining to children and reading, and hosts new artists on a regular basis. Finally, check out the "New York City" section for unique books on one of the world's most vibrant and diverse cities.

Before, after or during your expedition around this literary maze, indulge in a cupcake at adjacent Cupcake Cafe (because you will need the sugar even if your kid doesn't). The coffees aren't half bad and they serve ice creams and juices as well.

Definitely one of my favorite places in NY. Karam and I will be returning on every visit to the Big Apple.

Other posts in the New York City series:

New York General Travel Tips

New York, United States: Must-Visit Toy Stores

New York, United States: Our Favorite City Playgrounds and So Much More..

New York, United States: Fabulously Friendly Brunches

New York, United States: 10 Reasons We Love Bryant Park