Kirby Stirland

Farm to table NYC eateries prove that amid subways, skyscrapers and concrete, people crave the flavor and nutrients of natural ingredients—even if there isn't a farm in sight.  Don't be fooled by any misconceptions or labels. Some of our favorite family restaurants and New York pizza slices are among locals' go-to farm to table restaurants. We're always willing to have a pie at Roberta's or a savory brunch at Friend of a Farmer! We definitely don't need any convincing.  While you're out exploring—catching new exhibits, visiting cool family attractions—hunger is bound to set in. Stop and recharge with a bite to eat one of these farm to table NYC restaurants. Dig in!  

Settling on a vacation that suits everyone is no easy feat, but fortunately, these family cruises offer something for the whole gang. Attractions, events, cuisines and destinations are a plenty, so you certainly won’t be hearing the dreaded “I’m bored” phrase at any point on your trip. Thanks to our list of the best family cruises, your kiddos will feel as though your getaway is personally catered to them. No matter the line you choose to book or the locations you’d like to check off your list, these family cruises from the NYC area are guaranteed to provide an experience you won’t forget. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best family vacations from NYC Need time away to catch up on some R&R? Check out a few family vacations your children will love, spend some time at one of these kid friendly all inclusive resorts or take a staycation and check off a bunch of fun things to do in spring from your list.  

Craving something sweet? Visit our favorite candy stores and feast your eyes on the swoon-worthy snacks that are mighty difficult to pass up.  Old-school shops such as Fferins of Brooklyn offer delicious imported treats while the popular IT'Sugar brand boasts a vibrant, whimsical vibe as guests fill their bags with all-things flavorful. After grabbing a stash of candy, we recommend bringing the kiddos to these fun ice cream shops in NYC and letting them have a taste of the best rainbow foods a foodie can find. Hey, if you're going to spoil yourself your brood, you might as well do it right!  For those parents attempting to host one of the coolest birthday parties for kids or simply looking forward to a night at home marathoning hysterical family comedy movies, a shopping spree at one of the many candy stores in NYC is a must. 

Though your kids are probably sulking about the end of summer, we know that parents everywhere are secretly celebrating their renewed sense of freedom. Favorite family restaurant Habana Outpost (also one of the best kid-friendly bars in Brooklyn) is helping to ease your youngsters' pain and letting you in on the fun, too. This Monday, September 1 from 11am–3pm, the Fort Greene joint is hosting a Back to School Bash chock-full of free activities for kids including face painting, games, dancing and chances to win cool prizes. While you enjoy what might be your last mojiito of the season, the way-under-21 set can score free school supplies and participate in eco-friendly art projects using recycled materials. If you can't make the Labor Day weekend party, hit up Habana Outpost when they're hosting one of their free craft classes for kids, which happen several times each month, or pop in for a family meal of traditional Mexican and Cuban food.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Halloween for kids in New York City It's the most boo-tiful time of year! Most NYC kids start thinking about their Halloween costumes long before October 31st—after all, it's probably the most important outfit decision they'll make all year! Give 'em a leg up at this year's costume contest with a trip to one of these Halloween costume stores in NYC, where they'll find everything from ghoulish teeth to fake blood to spiderwebs galore...oh, and you know, some of the best Halloween costumes around! Mom and dad are sure to find something too, since many of these picks are true city classics, like Abracadabra! For more fall fun, explore our top things to do in the fall with kids, plus these pumpkin picking and apple picking NY spots!

Gotham may be a concrete jungle, but it's home to lots of great green spaces, many of which welcome your canine companions. At these dog-friendly New York parks for families, Fido can have a romp through the grass or make new friends in a dog run while the littles burn off some steam on the kids' playgrounds. Best of all, enjoying these these outdoor oases is totally free. You can only watch so many funny animal videos—step away from the screen and get some fresh air at one of our favorite al fresco spots. (Not a dog owner but thinking of adding a four-legged member to your family? Check out our list of 10 awesome places to adopt a dog in NYC.)    RECOMMENDED: NYC pet guide for families

We've all seen that mournful look family pets give when they know you're going on vacation. Thanks to these pet-friendly hotels in New York City, your furry family members can get in on your travels (and, for that matter, crash in style). Here's our list of favorites around town.   RECOMMENDED: NYC pet guide for families

Dining in New York with kids doesn't have to be difficult. Many of the city's restaurants serve up kid–friendly fare and will welcome your whole brood, picky/messy eaters included. B.Y.O.B. (Bring Your Own Baby) to one of our favorite spots serving brunch for kids, grab a slice of the best New York pizza for families or take your pick from our list of the 50 best family restaurants in NYC. Looking for a family-friendly place to celebrate St. Patrick's Day? You're in luck—the roundup below features traditional Irish pubs that offer plenty of dishes to please little palates.   RECOMMENDED: Best kid-friendly bars in Brooklyn

While there's no shortage of amazing things to do with kids in the Big Apple (like exploring the best NYC parks, dining at the 50 best restaurants for families and browsing top NYC museums, just to name a few), sometimes you need to leave the little ones at home. If you want a reliable childcare provider who's more like a family member than the occasional sitter, hiring a live-in nanny may be the answer. Refer to one of the agencies on our list for an experienced, qualified nanny who will make it easy for you to work, travel or just try out some date ideas. These companies are backed by years of experience and scores of satisfied clients, meaning you can trust them with this extremely personal and important decision.

We get it. Your pet is more than just a furry companion...he or she is a member of your family! Whether canine or feline (or something else entirely), show your four-legged family members some love with a little something from one of our favorite pet supply stores in NYC. From national chains to indie boutiques, these pet supply stores are best in show. Some even offer grooming services in addition to shelves stocked with beds, leashes, collars, toys and training aids. Follow your shopping spree with a stop at one of our favorite dog friendly New York parks to really get their tails wagging!  RECOMMENDED: NYC pet guide for families: Pet adoptions and activities