How to conquer New York with a baby: 10 proven life hacks
My youngest daughter Emma (she was 7 months old) and I went to New York. (USA) We walked through Manhattan, finally saw the Statue of Liberty, and we went to a bunch of other cool places.
I don’t think Emma will remember anything, but we do: photos and stories will remain. As new parents, we were a little anxious, but the city was not as scary as it seems – the main thing is to approach the trip realistically and prepare.
Below are our 10 tips for an independent trip to New York with a baby. Small tricks really save strength and nerves. And yes – with a local guide walks will become even more interesting: he will tell you where it is better to get on the ferry without crowds, which stations with elevators work, and where there are quiet corners for feeding.
1) A light wheelchair is a masthave.
We walked almost everywhere and took the subway. At street level, New York City is quite wheelchair friendly, but on the subway, many stations without elevators, and even working, an elevator can be broken. Therefore, you need a wheelchair that is easy to fold and lift up the steps. We took Babyzen YOYO2 - very convenient for the city. In the car seat is usually located, but with a bulky full stroller you will suffer. A good lightweight stroller saves a lot of time and effort.
(2) Carrying backpack is an excellent addition
Carriage will help on stairs, in cramped places and on the ferry. We had an Ergobaby Omni Breeze - suitable for children ~0 to 45 pounds (about 0 to 48 months) and perfect for our 7-month-old Emma.
On a walk to the Statue of Liberty, we wanted to sit on the upper deck of the ferry for views - there are steep stairs and crowds, and the stroller would be superfluous. It was also useful on the plane: Emma flew like a lap infant (on her lap) - children under two usually fly for free, and carrying allowed her arms to be freed.
(3) A child seat is worth taking.
We only used a taxi from/to the airport. In New York state, the law does not require a car seat in a taxi, but it is better to have one - traffic in the city is sometimes chaotic. We brought our own chair: most airlines allow it to be rented for free as extra baggage for the family. If you do not want to carry a chair, there are taxi services with child seats (for a fee): Kid Car, Kidmoto, Legends Limousine, Taxi Bambino - they usually have good reviews, but it is more expensive.
(4) New York has a lot of fun for the family.
We never felt that Emma was bored - the city is full of parks, pedestrian areas, museums and just beautiful places to walk. Plan the days not too tightly: the regime is important for a small child. And again, a local guide will help you choose routes where you do not have to climb the steps and where there is less crowd, as well as tell you secret playgrounds and quiet children's corners.
(5) Choose a hotel with a view (and family amenities)
We advise you to take a room with a view - it's a little joy after a busy day. But more important than convenience: the elevator, the availability of the stroller to the entrance, the presence of a refrigerator and a kettle, and ideally - a room with a baby cot or the ability to order it in advance. Many hotels offer additional services for families – check in advance.
(6) New Yorkers love children
Surprisingly, in the city to the kids are warm: people often go to meet, help with the door, give way. But do not forget about personal safety and try to be polite and calm - this makes interaction easier.
7) Don’t panic about crime, but be careful.
New York City has a reputation, but downtown most neighborhoods are safe for tourists during the day. As in any big city, follow the basic rules: do not leave things unattended, keep documents and a first aid kit at hand. For peace of mind, you can discuss routes in advance with a local guide - he will tell you which neighborhoods are best avoided in the evening and where it is safer to walk with your child.
(8) Snacks and water are always at hand
Kids love snacks and are often suddenly hungry. Keep in your bag some favorite snowballs, cookies, a water bottle and napkins. A quick snack will help avoid whims in the subway or on a long walk.
(9) Family areas and feeding areas are easy to find.
In major museums, shopping centers and some parks there are special rooms for parents with children, changing tables and comfortable corners for feeding. Applications and maps help to find such places in advance; the guide will also show the nearest options and tell you where there are fewer queues.
(10) Stocks are easily procured locally
Diapers, diapers, baby food -- there's no problem with that in New York: there are big supermarkets and pharmacies all over Manhattan. But if the child has sensitive skin or you use a rare brand, it is better to take a stock for the first days. And again: the guide can tell you where the nearest store with the right goods is to avoid unnecessary walks around the city.
A trip with a baby to New York is real. A lightweight stroller, carrying, thoughtful logistics and a little flexibility - and the city will open from the best side. If you want even more comfort and busy routes without unnecessary fuss, think about a short walk with a local guide: he will speed up the solution of household issues and show those places that you are unlikely to notice. Memories will remain – let them be pleasant.
Source of information: personalguide
You'll be met in the U.S.private guidesAnd they'll offer you a copy.individual toursehtravel agenciesThe United States will offer its services and organizetourInteresting excursions for travelers.
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