10+ Best Places to Celebrate Mother’s Day with Toddlers in NYC
Celebrating Mother’s Day with toddlers in NYC doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun or relaxation. The city is packed with spots where both moms and little ones can enjoy the day — from interactive museums to stroller-friendly parks and adorable brunch spots with play areas. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or an easy indoor experience, these toddler-approved ideas make sure mom feels celebrated while the kids stay entertained.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with toddlers in NYC
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
This museum was made with toddlers in mind. From hands-on exhibits and water play zones to pretend-play markets and building blocks, it’s a safe and stimulating environment for little ones to explore. Plus, it’s stroller-friendly and includes a cozy café where mom can take a breather.
- Address: 145 Brooklyn Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11213
- Website: https://www.brooklynkids.org/
Central Park Zoo & Tisch Children’s Zoo
A Mother’s Day morning at the zoo? Yes, please. With toddler-friendly enclosures, a petting zoo, and plenty of stroller paths, the Central Park Zoo is an easy win. Don’t miss the sea lion feedings or the charming little farm section at Tisch Children’s Zoo.
- Address: East 64th Street, New York, NY 10021
- Website: https://centralparkzoo.com/
The Seaglass Carousel
This stunning underwater-themed carousel at Battery Park turns a typical ride into a magical memory. The fish-shaped seats light up and spin in a soothing, gentle rhythm perfect for young kids. It’s a sweet and low-key way to celebrate Mother’s Day with toddlers in NYC.
- Address: Water St & State St, New York, NY 10004
- Website: https://www.seaglasscarousel.nyc/
Pier 6 at Brooklyn Bridge Park
Pier 6 is packed with some of the most toddler-friendly playgrounds in the city. The Water Lab, Slide Mountain, and Sandbox Village offer hours of outdoor fun. It’s an ideal choice if you want to keep things casual and let the kids run wild while enjoying waterfront views.
- Address: Brooklyn Bridge Park Greenway, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Website: https://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/
Jane’s Carousel
A classic carousel ride right by the water with Manhattan views? Yes, please. Jane’s Carousel in Dumbo is enclosed in glass so it’s perfect rain or shine. It’s picturesque, toddler-safe, and a great pit stop after brunch or park time.
- Address: Old Dock St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
- Website: https://www.janescarousel.com/
Little Island NYC
This whimsical park on the Hudson River features winding paths, grassy hills, toddler-friendly art installations, and often hosts free events. It’s an easy walk with a stroller and has plenty of space to sit, snack, and soak in skyline views. A fun, relaxing choice for Mother’s Day with toddlers in NYC.
- Address: Pier 55, Hudson River Park, W 13th St, New York, NY 10014
- Website: https://www.littleisland.org/
Governors Island
Governors Island is a short ferry ride away but feels like a total escape from the city. Once there, you’ll find open fields, playgrounds, mini hills to roll down, and even hammocks. It’s stroller-friendly, car-free, and makes a wonderful outdoor Mother’s Day outing with toddlers.
- Address: Ferry departs from Battery Maritime Building, 10 South St, New York, NY 10004
- Website: https://www.govisland.com/
The High Line + Chelsea Market
The High Line is a scenic walking path that’s stroller-accessible and filled with art, nature, and skyline views. After a breezy stroll, head to Chelsea Market for snacks and lunch — there are high chairs and enough variety to please even the pickiest little eaters. A perfect half-day plan for low-key fun.
- Address: Gansevoort St. to W. 30th St. between Washington St. & 11th Ave
- Website: https://www.thehighline.org/
Children’s Museum of Manhattan (CMOM)
This Upper West Side favorite is designed for families with kids under 6. From water play tables to interactive art walls and soft climbing zones, it’s packed with activities that toddlers love. Plus, there are quiet spaces where moms can take a breather if needed.
- Address: 212 W 83rd St, New York, NY 10024
- Website: https://www.cmom.org/
Wave Hill Public Garden
Wave Hill is a peaceful, garden-filled oasis in the Bronx, with paths wide enough for strollers and views of the Hudson River. It’s a slower-paced spot where toddlers can wander among flowers while mom soaks in some springtime calm. Bring a picnic or grab lunch at the on-site café.
- Address: 4900 Independence Ave, Bronx, NY 10471
- Website: https://www.wavehill.org/
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a stroller-friendly paradise full of blooming cherry blossoms and winding garden paths. The Discovery Garden is especially great for toddlers — it’s hands-on, interactive, and safe. A great pick if you want nature, shade, and spring blooms all in one place.
- Address: 990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225
- Website: https://www.bbg.org/
Domino Park
Located on the Williamsburg waterfront, Domino Park offers stunning Manhattan skyline views, a large playground designed with toddlers in mind, and plenty of open space to roam. The fountain area is great for warm days, and there are shaded benches, a taqueria, and stroller-friendly paths throughout. It’s an ideal low-key spot to unwind, snack, and play.
- Address: 300 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249
- Website: https://www.dominopark.com
Final Thoughts
Spending Mother’s Day with toddlers in NYC can be both joyful and stress-free — if you choose the right places. Whether you’re up for a full day of adventures or just want a cozy spot to play and relax, New York offers plenty of options that keep little ones engaged while giving moms the appreciation they deserve. This year, celebrate the day with snacks, swings, skyline views, and lots of happy memories.
References
- https://www.overhereny.com/best-mothers-day-brunch-in-manhattan/
- https://www.iloveny.com/blog/post/mothers-day-in-new-york-state/
- https://tinybeans.com/new-york/celebrate-you-new-york-city-mothers-day-events/
- https://www.timeout.com/new-york-kids/things-to-do/the-best-things-to-do-with-toddlers-in-nyc