Best kids' play areas in NYC that families will love

This Park Slope hotspot is a win-win for the whole family. The cafe and playground hybrid will give parents the opportunity to snack and socialize—a much-needed break—while their kids run wild. Youngsters will be able to slide into a ball pit, create masterpieces in the LEGO station, test their agility at the angled climbing wall, run around the matted play area and explore the wonders of the magnetic wall. Let the kiddies refuel with juice and cookies once they've wrapped up their adventures, and don't forget to explore the possible birthday party options available! All ages. 

All little visitors in search of an adventure are bound to find one at this newly-opened NYC venue. Options abound at every turn, including yoga, dance, music—you name it. Should your tyke be more interested in exploring the space's toys, there are train tracks, play kitchens and mats for climbing that he or she can dabble with after a yoga session. Be sure to spend time on the outdoor patio when the nice weather hits and plan your kiddo's next birthday at this awesome space! All ages. 

Options abound at Recess DUMBO, whether you're looking to let your tot drop in occasionally for free play, or if you're interested in scoring a membership to the epic kids' oasis. No matter what you decide, your little one will thank you. He or she will get a kick out of the jumparoo (a big tube where pint-sized visitors bounce), fire poles, slides and climbing netting. Chances are, this venue is bound to wipe out your brood, so prepare for naptime when you arrive home. 

This NYC play space is a hoot! Kiddies will be able to enjoy a variety of free play options—drop-in classes, five-pack passes, 10-pack classes—take classes such as Hoots & Crafts, Twinkle Toes Ballet and Supper Soccer Moms. Be on the lookout for annual events, and if you really love the space, look into booking a party. 

Haven’t visited lately? What are you waiting for! With the help of parent volunteers, this already-awesome space morphed into a dedicated educational, play and classroom spot for local families. Two separate rooms are available to visitors during Open Play: One is an activity room with a padded floor that’s great for toddlers (it often has a mini bouncy castle and giant foam blocks!), and the other is a sensory room/classroom that includes a magnetic chalkboard wall, a wooden playhouse and a custom-built wooden sensory wall with a bead maze, shape-matching toy, vintage telephone and a concave blowfish-shape mirror. Ages 18mos–7yrs.

Founded by two sisters, this 3,000-square-foot play space offers an indoor jungle gym, a Broadway-themed room with amazing kids’ costumes and a “bodega” where they can play with shopping carts and plastic/cardboard foods. There are also ride-on car toys (a Bentley and a Mercedes) and a custom train table featuring a 6 train and landmarks like the Statue of Liberty. Ages 6mos–5yrs.

Hudson's House of Play, located along the Hudson River just across the way in NJ, offers a wildly colorful space that's simply jam-packed with fun for kids. The custom-built setup is crafted to look like a town square, complete with a fireouse, sweet-packed bake shop, fresh food market, vet's office and large Brownstone residence. For especially young tykes (ages 2 and under), there's a special play area that offers soft mats and agea-appropriate toys. As an added bonus, parents enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi and can grab a cup of Joe from the onsite cafe. Please be aware that the facility is nut-free, and outside food is discouraged. Ages 0–8.

Your seedling will blossom at this Chelsea play space, which includes a 2,500-square-foot indoor playground featuring a soft-play climbing area, a shape-sorter garden, a sports section and nine permanent exhibits that mimic the Big Apple. Your child can ring up friends at the New York-style deli filled with fake organic food and flowers, or design her own skyscraper out of colorful geometric shapes. The space also contains a boutique, a bookstore, a café, a birthday room and a hair salon (a haircut for your child will set you back about $32). Classrooms at the facility offer lessons in music, art, cooking, science, yoga, dance, sports and Spanish in 16-week sessions. A Red Apple Seeds membership grants you unlimited access to the cheery playgrounds and members receive a discount on classes, camps, haircuts, events and purchases at the boutique and café. Ages newborn to 5 years.

Set in the courtyard of the Westbeth artist community, this spot looks more like a gallery than a tot stomping ground. But inside, it's warm and inviting. Founder Dawn Ifrah has a master's degree in early childhood education and she puts it to good use, adjusting her equipment to suit the ages and interests of the kids who show up. Toy kitchens and cars can be added or removed, as can climbing towers. Reservations suggested. Ages 6 months to 7 years.

The Chelsea retreat may be named for its tree house, but its main attraction is actually a water table that accommodates children ranging in age from 18 months to eight years. Toddlers give plastic animals a bath while preschoolers direct water jets to move balls and customize dams. Other offerings include a wide selection of classes and playgroups, as well as birthday parties. Ages newborn to 8 years.