16 May The Ultimate Guide to DUMBO for Families

If you’re looking for a fun, exciting and family-friendly destination in New York City, then DUMBO is the place for you! This vibrant neighborhood offers a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to please both adults and kids alike. From interactive playgrounds to unique art installations and fantastic views of the Manhattan skyline, there is something for everyone in DUMBO. In this ultimate guide to DUMBO for families, we will provide all the information you need to plan the perfect day out with your little ones.

Getting There
Visiting DUMBO, NYC with your family is easy to do. The area is easily accessible by the NYC subway system, and the neighborhood is very family friendly. From the Broadway G stop in Brooklyn, you can take the F train to York Street and walk over the Brooklyn Bridge Park pedestrian bridge into DUMBO. You can also take the A/C to High Street or take the B/Q to DeKalb Ave. There are also multiple bus lines that will get you close to DUMBO. Parking is available, but street parking can be limited at times. Uber, Lyft, or cab rides are an option for those that don’t have access to public transportation.

What to Do
NYC is full of exciting things to do for families with kids and DUMBO is no exception. Located in Brooklyn, this charming neighborhood is a great destination for family friendly activities. Here are some of the top attractions in DUMBO that your family won’t want to miss:

1. The Brooklyn Bridge Park: Take a stroll or bike ride along the East River waterfront, featuring breathtaking views of the NYC skyline. The park has plenty of green space and play areas for kids.

2. Jane’s Carousel: This restored 1922 carousel is a true gem and sure to be a hit with kids. Set on the Brooklyn waterfront, it offers magnificent views while you take a ride.

3. St. Ann’s Warehouse: This theater offers performances, puppet shows, film screenings, and live music for all ages. They also host special events throughout the year that your family can enjoy.

4. Main Street Park: This park features an interactive fountain and green space where kids can let loose and have fun. There is also an art wall where kids can paint and create their own masterpieces.

5. Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory: This iconic factory serves up delicious homemade ice cream with unbeatable views of Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Enjoy your treat while watching boats pass by on the East River.

Where to Eat and Drink
When you’re out exploring DUMBO with the kids, you’ll find plenty of places to grab a bite. The Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory is a great spot for a treat, while Juliana’s Pizza serves up some of the best New York-style pizza in town. For breakfast, check out Little and Friday or One Girl Cookies.

If you’re looking for lunch or dinner options, try the highly rated Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, the deli at Superfine, or The River Café. For something a bit more upscale, try Vinegar Hill House or Cecconi’s DUMBO.
The neighborhood is also home to several brewpubs and restaurants that feature craft beers and cocktails. Check out the Brooklyn Bridge Brewpub for craft brews and bar food, or the Brooklyn Tap House for craft cocktails and more.

For something a bit more unique, head over to Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park. Here you’ll find mobile food vendors from Shake Shack, Kelvin Natural Slush Co., and Insomnia Cookies.

With all of these delicious dining options, you’re sure to find something to please everyone in your family during your day in DUMBO!

Shopping
Shopping in DUMBO is always fun, especially with the family! There are a variety of unique boutiques and stores that you can explore, offering everything from apparel to home goods.

If you’re looking for art, start your journey at Broadway Gallery, where you can find eclectic pieces from local and international artists. Art lovers will also appreciate Invisible Dog, which offers installations and performances from all over the world.

For clothing and accessories, head to Smoochie Baby to find trendy clothes for kids of all ages. There is also DecadeNYC, an incredible vintage store with unique finds from around the world. To complete your look, check out Hometown Shoes and accessories boutique Soryu, where you can find the perfect items to accessorize your wardrobe.

For home goods, check out Brooklyn General Store, with their selection of handmade housewares, plants, and furniture. PlantShed also has a wide selection of plants and gardening supplies for your home. Lastly, stop by Galapagos Books to pick up some interesting reads for all ages.

DUMBO has something for everyone! From apparel to art and everything in between, this area of Brooklyn has it all when it comes to shopping.

Tips for Visiting with Kids
Visiting DUMBO with kids can be an incredibly fun and enjoyable experience. To help make sure that your visit is as stress-free as possible, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Pack light – since there are so many things to explore and enjoy in DUMBO, it’s best to pack only the essentials to avoid overburdening yourself.

2. Bring some snacks – there are plenty of places to eat in DUMBO, but it’s always nice to have some snacks on hand for when your little ones start to get hungry.

3. Wear comfortable shoes – you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking around DUMBO, so make sure that you and your children are wearing comfortable shoes.

4. Bring a stroller or wagon – if you have little ones that don’t like to walk, it’s a good idea to bring a stroller or wagon with you to help transport them around.

5. Plan ahead – if you want to make sure that you see all the sites and attractions in DUMBO, then it’s best to plan out your route before you go.

6. Know the best times – DUMBO can get busy on weekends, so try to plan your visit during the weekdays or early morning/late afternoon on the weekends.

7. Have fun – most importantly, don’t forget to have fun! Let your kids lead the way as you explore all that DUMBO has to offer.