The best apps for kids and families in NYC

Breed an art-lover and navigate NYC's awesome assortment of outdoor art via these in-app tours for families. Parents and kids can embark on hour-long treasure hunts, starting with a picture clue showing a small piece of a larger work of art. Once you locate the complete piece, indicate that it's "found" to reveal more information about the work. The audio tour and GPS-tracking makes things easy and fun for kids who want to be in charge of the iPhone as your clan explores areas like Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, the United Nations building and Central Park. $.99. Ages 4 and up.

Stay in-the-know on the latest updates from the DOE and keep all important details of your tot's school on-hand at all times. Check in on news and social media, access school directory info and calendars and even find out what your little one is having for lunch via the school's menus. Having mobile access to the ARIS online portal and an outlet for any feedback helps parents feel in-touch with their child's education. Free. Ages 17 and up.

It can feel impossible to find a place to sit and rest in NYC. When your nuggets start dragging their feet after an afternoon of walking, hightail it over to the nearest public plaza to re-energize. Just refer to the map, dotted with the locations of parks, gardens and other spots with tables and chairs, and follow the directions from your current location for a quick break with the kids. This way, you can avoid any mid-sidewalk tantrums. Free. Ages 4 and up.

We've got you covered when it comes to planning ahead for fun events with the kids, but this app helps with last-minute ideas nearby while you're on-the-go. Follow your favorite museums, libraries and cultural centers to stay up-to-date on awesome activities. It's easy to search by the type of institution (coffee shops, movie theaters, museums, playgrounds and more) or filter the events based on age range and radius to ensure that you can find just what you're in the mood for. Free. Ages 4 and up.

There's nothing worse than running around an unfamiliar neighborhood with a little one who's just about to burst. Next time the kids need an emergency potty break or you're looking for a clean place to change diapers, avoid the mad dash to the nearest Starbucks by using this app from Charmin. The interactive map quickly locates the closest bathroom and shows you pictures and ratings from other users, ranging from "Sit" (clean and enjoyable) to "Squat" (kinda gross). Narrow your search by selecting options such as "handicap accessible" or "baby changing table." Free. Ages 4 and up.

The best way to get your tots acquainted with the city is to head out on an interactive adventure. Enter this super user-friendly app, offering DIY mobile tours for parents and youngsters to tackle together. After purchasing the free app, families can choose from NYC locations like Chinatown and Little Italy or even specific institutions like the Met and American Museum of Natural History, then set out on a scavenger hunt–like stroll. You'll work together, completing challenges to earn points at various destinations and picking up fun historical facts along the way. App free, tours $4.99–$11.99 each. Ages 8 and up.