Day: July 11, 2017

Destination: MCU Park and Coney Island

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Major league baseball stadiums can be overwhelming for children – the noise, the crowds, the noise, the fans’ energy, the noise – did I mention the noise?

A great bet for a child’s first game (and subsequent ones!) is to support your local Triple-A team. We’re lucky to live near MCU Park, home to the Brooklyn Cyclones. The stadium is wonderfully family-friendly; many games include kids running the bases either before or after the game; fireworks on select nights; or themes like Harry Potter Night.

Because the stadium is small, there is literally not a bad seat in the house, perfect for explaining the ins and outs of the game to children old enough to understand.

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You’ll be right up close to all those silly mascots, too!

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MCU Park has the added bonus of being right up against Coney Island with the rest of its attractions. Make a day of it before the game starts (I find that 4 p.m. games are the ideal start time for the preschool set). If you arrive in the early afternoon, you’ll have ample time to stroll the boardwalk and sample the food (Italian ice is a must!). Duck into Luna Park for a few kiddie rides;

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Gape in terror at the roller coasters;

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And soak up the local characters (parrot-toting guitar players??)

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A perfect summer afternoon!

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Trip Date: July 2017

Ages: 3+

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Destination: The High Line

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This is the first post in a new series of vacations or day trips to enjoy with kids! The High Line is a perfect oasis, not just for children, but also for adults overwhelmed by New York’s concrete jungle. Up a flight of stairs off Tenth Avenue, you’ll suddenly find yourself above the fray of the metropolis. (Note: There is elevator access at the 14th Street, 16th Street, 23rd Street, and 30th Street entrances).

Summer is my favorite time to visit the High Line, although each season has its beauties. You’ll find acres of gardens planted with flowers and vines.

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There are also grass lawns to sunbathe on and strategically placed viewing platforms where you can sit right above the traffic – perfect for toddlers learning to name their vehicles!

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Best of all, if you visit when the High Line is not too crowded, there’s a bit of room for kids to run or walk about and get out their energy… A much safer thing to do up on the High Line than down on the sidewalks.

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A perfect oasis!

Trip Date: July 2016

Ages: All!

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