Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Little Italy
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Little Italy
1. Ferrara Bakery & Cafe
Step into a gleaming pastry case paradise where kids can point to rainbow cookies, gelato, and the shop’s famed cannoli while parents savor an espresso. It’s an easy, low-commitment treat stop with seating and lively Mulberry–Grand street views.
✓ Why Go:
A Little Italy icon since 1892, Ferrara delivers a sweet taste of neighborhood history that kids actually want to try.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mid-mornings or late afternoons to dodge peak dessert lines; hot days for gelato hits the spot.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order a trio of mini pastries so kids can sample different flavors without sugar overload; window seats are great for people-watching.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the classic vibe, friendly staff, and picture-perfect desserts; expect a short wait but quick turnover.
2. Italian American Museum
A compact, kid-manageable museum that brings immigrant stories to life through photos, artifacts, and neighborhood snapshots—just enough culture between bites.
✓ Why Go:
It adds meaning to the surrounding streets, helping kids connect pastries and festivals to real families and traditions.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early afternoon for a cool, quiet break; check hours before you go.
✓ Insider Tip:
Keep visits short and sweet—20–40 minutes fits most kids’ attention spans and pairs well with nearby snack stops.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Appreciated as a friendly, bite-size cultural stop with helpful staff and thoughtful exhibits.
3. Audrey Hepburn Mural
A vibrant, larger‑than‑life street art portrait makes an irresistible photo op for kids and teens—colorful, free, and fast.
✓ Why Go:
It breaks up the food crawl with an artsy scavenger-hunt moment right on Mulberry Street.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for fewer pedestrians and the best light.
✓ Insider Tip:
Stand across the street for the full mural in frame; watch for cars when snapping pics.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Called a fun, quick stop that livens up family albums and social feeds.
4. Caffé Palermo
Home of the self‑proclaimed Cannoli King, this cheerful cafe serves crisp shells filled to order and kid-pleasing sweets in a lively setting.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a quintessential Little Italy dessert experience with outdoor tables perfect for families.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Afternoon snack hour or early evening before dinner rush.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order mini cannoli so everyone can sample different fillings without spoiling dinner.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about fresh shells, generous portions, and upbeat service.
5. Di Palo’s Fine Foods
An old‑school market where kids can see wheels of cheese and hanging salumi while you pick up picnic fixings and pantry souvenirs.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a living lesson in Italian ingredients and a tasty way to extend the Little Italy experience back home.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday mornings to avoid ticket‑number queues.
✓ Insider Tip:
Grab fresh mozzarella and bread for an easy park picnic; lines move fastest when you know what you want.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Known for knowledgeable staff and top‑notch products; a highlight for food‑curious kids.
6. Christmas in New York
A year‑round wonderland of ornaments and sparkly decor where kids can choose a NYC‑themed keepsake—think taxis, slices, and skyline snow globes.
✓ Why Go:
It’s an easy, weather‑proof stop that doubles as souvenir shopping with kid appeal.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Evenings for twinkly ambience; anytime on rainy or hot days.
✓ Insider Tip:
Set a souvenir budget per child before you walk in—the choices are dazzling.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Described as whimsical and surprisingly affordable for small gifts.
7. Piemonte Ravioli Co.
A family‑run pasta shop where kids can admire rows of fresh ravioli and fun shapes while you stock up for an easy hotel‑kitchen or home dinner.
✓ Why Go:
Connects the dots between Italian cooking and what’s on their plates—hands‑on without a class.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late morning when production is often visible and the counter is calmer.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for kid‑friendly picks like cheese ravioli; the house sauce makes a quick meal.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Praised for quality and fair prices; staff are patient with curious kids.
8. Shrine of the Most Precious Blood
A peaceful church at the heart of Little Italy’s traditions—quiet pews, devotional art, and a cool refuge on hot days.
✓ Why Go:
Offers a cultural counterpoint to eating and shopping, plus ties to the San Gennaro festivities kids may see on the street.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Midday for a calm, reflective break; check service times to be respectful.
✓ Insider Tip:
Point out the side altars and statues to spark questions about neighborhood history.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors find it serene and welcoming; a meaningful, free stop.
9. Original Vincent’s
A classic red‑sauce spot known for family‑friendly plates—think spaghetti, meatballs, and mild marinara that pleases picky eaters.
✓ Why Go:
Reliable sit‑down comfort food in the heart of the neighborhood with plenty to share.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early dinner to avoid lines and keep bedtime on track.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask for the mild sauce if kids don’t like heat; shareable portions stretch the budget.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Reviews note nostalgic flavors, quick service, and a lively room.
10. Gelso & Grand
A bright corner restaurant with big windows and patio seating where kids can watch Mulberry Street buzz while digging into pizza and pasta.
✓ Why Go:
It’s as much a street‑life show as a meal—great for restless kids who like action.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend lunch for a festive vibe or weekday early dinner for shorter waits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Split a pizza and a pasta family‑style; ask for a window or sidewalk table for the best people‑watching.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families like the upbeat energy, friendly staff, and kid‑approved menu.
