NYC family attractions that have permanently closed

This neighborhood "finer diner" was perpetually lively and family-packed—even known to welcome a celebrity or two. After 22 years in business, the Park Slope hot spot has closed due to financial strains from COVID.

First established in the early 1860s, and rebuilt in the 1950s by philanthropist Carl M. Loeb, the lakeside restaurant was a quintessential New York café in the heart of Central Park. A filing with the Department of Labor cites that “unforeseeable business circumstances prompted by COVID-19” are its reasons for closure.

Tucked away on a tree-lined street just a few blocks from Barclays Center was a bookstore that offers options for kids of all ages. Families could find everything from sturdy board books and beautifully illustrated stories for the littlest bibliophiles to young adult chapter books that encourage even screen-obsessed tweens to read. Although the shop is closed, you can visit the store online. 

The big-box stores have nothing on this Abingdon Square spot. The shop was filled to the brim with toys like handmade stuffed animals, puppets made of recycled sweaters, wooden heirloom-quality toys and old-fashioned battery-free entertainment (think Slinkys and the like). It also had a wide selection of books and a cozy place to read. 

One third of shop locations are closing in order to transition The Children's Place to an online entity. 

The uptown shop featured a broad selection of tomes for young readers, in addition to a vast assortment of games, toys and CDs. Its warm, knowledgeable staff was equally treasured, going the extra mile to russle up real gems instead of directing customers straight to the best-sellers. Kids were able to catch in-store puppet shows, musical story hours and more events. 

The Great White Way has decided to let go of Anna and Elsa. Although Broadway will no longer host the Disney sisters, fans of the hit story can catch the performance on tour in 2021. If you're looking for a more personalized experience, host a virtual hangout with the theater stars who portray the princesses, all thanks to Broadway Plus! 

Creativity and imagination soared at this DIY venue. Fashionistas were able to create the perfect accessory—necklaces, bracelets and more—after selecting their beads of choice. Although the brick and mortar has closed, kits, tools and materials are available online.

The retail chain Century 21 announced that it’s closing all 13 of its locations on the East Coast, many of which were located in the New York area. The off-price retailer was known for its heavily discounted designer items encompassing everything from suits and dresses to home goods, accessories and children's clothing. The chain said that their main reason for shutting down is that its insurance provider failed to provide a necessary payment. (Similar disputes over payments regarding business interruption have been landing in courts all over the country, with many insurers arguing pandemics aren’t covered under their policies.)

If your apartment is too small to host your toddler’s friends, Busy Bodies offered an open play area and backyard that was perfect for birthday parties, book readings and other events.