ML Interest Tag: bridge

New York City-Inspired Baby Names We Love

by Mimi O'Connor

The options seem limitless, with history-makers, magnates, and iconic figures from every era and discipline, all hailing from, or making their mark on the Big Apple. We rounded up some of the usual suspects and lots of classic baby names, and also looked for some fresh kids’ names that pay tribute to NYC.  No baby on deck? Maybe one of these New York names will hit the spot for that dog you are adopting from the Humane Society.

Anthony 
There are many famous Anthonys from NYC, but for now we’re going with Fauci, a hometown guy from Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

Apollo
Sure, it’s a lot to live up to, what with the god of the sun thing and all—but aim high and pay tribute to this legendary Harlem theater at the same time.

Apple
With apologies to Gwyneth and Chris, we were the first Apple. Go big!

Astoria/Astor
One of several neighborhood-inspired names on this list, Astoria is named for John Jacob Astor, a wealthy early 19th-century investor in NYC real estate, but we think it sounds almost Disney-princess-like. Astor is also kind of royal.

Audrey
Yes, Hepburn is strongly associated with NYC thanks to her iconic role of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but we’re thinking of Audrey Munson, model for scores of major statues around New York City, including the figure atop the Manhattan Municipal Building—second tallest in the city, after Lady Liberty.

Bill Cunningham
Have twins? Name one Bill, one Cunningham, and know that you are paying tribute to one of the most amazing New Yorkers ever to traverse, and document the city.

Baldwin
Inspired by this Black poet from Harlem, this is an alternative to his first name James.

Brighton
A name pegged to a famous Brooklyn beach and neighborhood with Russian and Eastern European roots.

Brooklyn
This New York name might have seemed unusual at some point is now in danger of being too common. Still, it’s a great borough and the name shows true Kings County pride!

Cab
In addition to the omnipresent vehicle, Cab Calloway was a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance. (We also like “Taxi” for a cute girl’s nickname, but it’s not as subtle.)

Carnegie
As in the Hall, named for steel magnate, businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

Coney
Employ it as a nickname (for Cornelius?) or use it as a standalone, this one has lots of south Brooklyn spirit.

Dorothy
Ms. Parker, one of New York’s sharpest wits, would approve. (Parker works, too.)

Duke
While not an NYC native, Duke Ellington made the city his home and became a major cultural force during the Harlem Renaissance as bandleader of the Cotton Club. We like Ellington as well.

Ed
A name that seems ripe for a comeback, this one pays homage to one of the most iconic, recognizable, “New Yorkiest” mayors the city has ever had, Ed Koch.

Edith
Downtown doyenne (and first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, thank you very much) Edith Wharton inspires this name from another era.

Eloise
Sure, she’s a fictional character, but she’s one of the most famous little New Yorkers out there! We love this New York name for a girl with a little spunk!

Emily
When her husband Washington, chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge succumbed to an illness, Emily Warren Roebling saw the project to its completion. (She was also one of the first people to cross it when it was done!)

Emory
While you may not be familiar with his name, architect Emory Roth designed so many of the iconic New York City buildings and hotels of the 1920s and 30s that you know and likely love. (Obviously, Roth could be a good choice as well.)

Fran/Frances/Francis
Fran Liebowitz has got to be one of the New Yorkiest New Yorkers out there.

Frederick (Law Olmsted)
Take your pick (and level of pretentiousness) with any part of the famed landscape architect’s name. (He’s one of the masterminds behind the designs for Central Park and Prospect Pack. For extra geek points and eyerolls, go for twins or siblings name Olmsted and Vaux, the name of his partnership with Calvert Vaux.)

George Gershwin
Either one! The groundbreaking composer was born in East New York, Brooklyn and became a major force on the legendary Tin Pan Alley, Broadway, and beyond.

Gracie
A nod to the official New York City mayoral residence, Gracie Mansion, named for early 19th-century businessman (and original owner of the house) Archibald Gracie.

Gray (Lady)
It’s the historic nickname of the paper that publishes “All the news that’s fit to print”—either could be the name of your New York City kid.

Greenwich
Inspired by the artsy downtown village, this name offers a nice mix of funky flair and subtle sophistication. (Like the neighborhood itself!)

Hamilton
You’ve heard of this guy. Founding father, first Treasurer of the United States of America, the man behind The U.S. Coast Guard, The New York Post, the Federalist party. And the blockbuster musical. He’s everywhere: Fort Hamilton Parkway, Fort Hamilton, etc.

Herald
A cheeky alternative to the more common spelling, “Harold”, this one references Herald Square, named for the long-gone newspaper, the New York Herald.

Herman
The author of Moby Dick (and other masterpieces) was born in New York, died in New York, and he’s buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx. (For the record, we like Melville as a kid’s name, too.)

Hoyt
There’s Hoyt Street in Brooklyn, Hoyt Avenue in Queens. They take their name from Edwin Hoyt, a 19th-century NYC businessman.

Hudson
Already a popular moniker around these parts, this name pays tribute to a founder, the river named for the founder, etc. Plus, it’s got some gravitas.

Jackie
She wasn’t born here, but she made New York City her home. So much so that they named a reservoir after her.

Jane
Shame on us if we didn’t suggest one of the champions of preserving so many parts of the city we love, Jane Jacobs. Jane is a classic New York baby name and we love it as a first or middle name.

Jennifer
Big in the 70s, then abandoned for Brittany and Ashley, Jennifer—here inspired by Jenny (Lopez) from the Bronx blocks herself—is primed for a resurgence

Lenny/Leonard
One’s a ground-breaking legendary downtown comedian  (Bruce, which you could also borrow), the other is the longtime music director of the New York Philharmonic, a legendary composer, and more (Bernstein).

Lexington
Sounds fancy, can be shortened to “Lexy” or “Lex”. The famous NYC avenue gets its name from the Revolutionary War Battle of Lexington, which actually took place in Massachusetts, but it was a big one.

Liberty
An inspiring concept, a New York icon. It’s hard to go wrong with this one.

Lincoln
A name with some very strong historical associations, this is also the namesake of one of our city’s most revered and iconic cultural institutions. (Which, interestingly enough, did not definitely get its name from honest Abe.)

Lou/Louis
Two musical legends, of different genres. Go downtown cool and pay tribute to Lou Reed, or name-check jazz man Armstrong a New Orleans native who famously settled in Corona, Queens for decades. (You can still visit his house!)

Macy
It’s “The World’s Largest Store!” And what kid wouldn’t get a kick out of “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”, etc.?

Moses
It’s a heavy name, no matter how you slice it. Tap your inner urban planner (you have one, right?) and pay tribute to Robert Moses, who, love him or hate him, shaped the city we live in today.

Patti
Pay tribute to one of the coolest kids around, Patti Smith, with this one. Got twins? How about Patti and Smith? Patti and Robert? Patti and Maple?

Peggy
Art collector, patron, and socialite Peggy Guggenheim left her mark on the city and the world with her wealth and taste. While Guggenheim is quite the mouthful, Peggy is a New York name we can get on board with.

Rocky/Rockefeller
A builder and benefactor of the city, a center of midtown. However you slice this name—inspired by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., it’s got presence and gravitas.

Roe
A shortened version of Roebling, the surname of the chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge and his wife Emily, who played a key role in the completion of the span after her husband fell ill.

Roxy
Similar, but different. S.L. “Roxy” Rosenthal actually worked with Rockefeller—he’s the showman behind Radio City Music Hall, the grand theater a stone’s throw from John D’s “City Within a City.”

Ruth
Used to sound old-fashioned, but now it’s fierce as hell thanks to this Flatbush, Brooklyn native. #RGB.

Shirley
Just old-fashioned enough to be in style again, this name pays tribute to Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress and the first woman and African American to seek the nomination for president of the United States of one of the two major political parties.

Smith
A well-known street in the Boerum Hill area of Brooklyn, the thoroughfare gets its name from one of the borough’s original mayors (back when it was its own city), Samuel Smith.

Teddy/Theo
Born here (Gramercy Park), Police Commissioner, Rough Rider, and President of the United States. Take your pick with Theodore Roosevelt: Theo, Teddy, Roosevelt, Theodore

Tiffany
Not the singer, the iconic jewelry store. (Maybe mix it up and name your child Tiffany Audrey.)

Walt, Whitman
Hero of Brooklyn and free, wild spirits everywhere, this poet offers plenty of inspiration and variation: Walt, Whit, Whitman. They all sound good to us.

Wharton
Another nod to novelist Edith, but for boys. (Possible downside: Nickname “Wart.”)

Make sure to capture all your little New Yorker’s biggest moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

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Nature Is Calling: 9 Incredible Hikes to Take in the City

by Jennifer O'Brien

Whether you’re downtown or uptown, coastal, or inland, you don’t have to drive far to find a good hiking spot

Ahhhh…spending the day in nature…fresh air, green trees, a picturesque hike that will tire your kids so they conk out during the car ride home. SoCal is brimming with kid-friendly trails right in our very own neighborhoods so you don’t have to look far for some swell places to explore. These hikes are just a stone’s throw away from home, offer free parking, and feature paths that are easy to navigate. So no matter what part of the city you find yourself in, there’s a perfect place close by to hike the day away.

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park - Point Loma

Ben Steward for Unsplash

The Sunset Park Cliffs Trail stretched along the Point Loma Peninsula is one of the very best for small kiddos. This stunning coastal hiking trail is about one-mile out and back, making it easy peasy on tiny legs.  Along your travels, you'll have access to the beach and tide pools which you can easily check out at low tide – so be sure to pack swimsuits for some serious exploring. As always, these are called "cliffs" for a reason, so pay extra attention that littles don't venture too close to the edge. We highly recommend catching the view at sunset if you don't mind a crowd—it tends to be the most popular time of day for a reason. It's also a swell place to spot grey whales on their way to migration, depending on the time of year.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Small lots and street parking with Ladera St. and Luscomb St. as good bets

Sunset Park Cliffs Trail
700 Cliffs Blvd.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

Tecolote Canyon - Bay Park

This is a long canyon in Bay Park where you’ll find several good entrances to choose from. A great starting place for kids is the Tecolote Canyon Natural Park & Nature Center where you’ll find scheduled ranger talks, stories, crafts, and a host of exhibits on animal and plant life. Or you can kick things off at the recreation center where you’ll discover a fun playground with tons of shade. Pick a trail and start your day of majestic exploration.  Just remember, they are out-and-back trails, so you’ll have to go back the way you came. 

Good to Know: Remember that open spaces are home to rattlesnakes, poison oak, mountain lions, and other hazards. Stay aware of your surroundings, bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and wear good shoes.
Bathrooms: Yes, at the Nature Center and Recreation Center
Parking: Free parking lot

Tecolote Canyon Nature Center
5180 Tecolote Rd.
San Diego

Tecolote Canyon Recreation Center
5188 Tecolote Rd.
San Diego

Online: sandiego.gov

Maple Canyon - Bankers Hill

A perfect combo of urban and nature can be found with this short and simple hike in the middle of the city. Start things off at the historic wooden Quince Street Bridge and you’ll find a trail entrance on the other side that will take you down into the canyon and under the bridge. This is an out-and-back, flat ground trail so only go half as far as little legs can muster so they can make it back to the bridge. This hike is perfect any time of year, but in spring, this trail really puts on a show with lush greenery and oodles of wildflowers.  Bonus: Next to the bridge, you’ll find a Little Free Library so bring some old books to donate. Once you and the fam have worked up an appetite, stop by James Coffee and Extraordinary Desserts only one block away.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Free and metered parking

Maple Canyon at Quince Street Bridge
Fourth Ave. & Quince St.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

Palm Canyon - Balboa Park

Located behind Mingei Museum is one of the most accessible and quick urban hikes at Palm Canyon in Balboa Park. Winding paths reward hikers with a shady and lush canyon filled with palm trees. In fact, the OG Mexican fan palms date back to 1912 so you can throw in a little history during your visit as well. There are some dirt trails that split upwards, but they eventually loop back around to each other. The garden also features a beautiful wooden footbridge leading from the Alcazar Gardens parking lot to across the street from Spreckles Organ Pavilion. This is a short hike, making it easy on little legs and even easier on parents' ears since complaints will likely be kept to a minimum. Bathrooms are conveniently located at the top of the steps.

Bathrooms: Yes
Parking: Behind Spreckels Organ Pavilion

Palm Canyon
635 Pan American Rd. W.
San Diego
Online: balboapark.org

Shepherd Canyon - Tierrasanta

This true urban hike is in a canyon that meanders between suburban housing developments. You’ll likely spot regulars from the neighborhood who come here for their daily walks, but it’s so wide that it never feels jam-packed. Some trails are lined with river rocks, sticks, or fallen trees, giving the area a great sense of community pride for being well-taken care of. You may even spy the occasional fort made of sticks and branches that kids will love to play in.  There's not much elevation gain to the trail overall, so it will be a super easy hike for beginners and little ones. With several entry points into this out-and-back trail system, families will have plenty of swell options.

Bathrooms: No
Parking: Free, residential street parking

Shepherd Canyon
6126 Antigua Blvd.
San Diego
Online: alltrails.com

Florida Canyon - Balboa Park

On the other side of Balboa Park off Park Blvd., you’ll find another primo hiking trail at Florida Canyon. This is a more moderate hike for longer legs that will take the stamina of a 6-year-old to trek out and back. The dirt trails split off every which way so just pick a direction and follow it until you want to go back. It’s easy to find your way because the brush is low enough to see where you’ve come from.

The best way to access the trail is to park in front of the Natural History Museum at Balboa Park and walk across the bridge toward the rose garden. Turn left and you’ll find yourself in the Desert Garden with paved trails, making it an easy nature walk for kiddos. To find the hiking trail, take the switchback paved trail down towards Zoo Pl. and cross the street.

Bathrooms: None nearby, but there are restrooms in Balboa Park
Parking: Next to the Natural History Museum

Florida Canyon
2125 Park Blvd.
San Diego
Online: balboapark.org

Manzanita Canyon - City Heights

This scenic urban hike will have you feeling like you’re not in San Diego anymore. With its dried up river bed, large river rocks, and brush lining the wide trails, you're transported to somewhere totally new.  During your visit, be on the lookout for wild animals and some serious bird spotting. There are several different neighborhood entrances to this out-and-back hike, but a good starting point is the Gathering Place (noted below). When you've finished hiking, check out the secret Azalea Park Water Conservation Garden, as well as a groovy playground behind the Community Center building.

Bathrooms: No, but you’ll find one at Azalea Community Park nearby
Parking: Free, residential street parking

Manzanita Canyon Gathering Place
Manzanita Dr. & Manzanita Pl.
San Diego
Online: sdcanyonlands.org

Seven Bridge Walk – Balboa Park

Definitely, the most "urban" of all the hikes we've listed, the Seven Bridge Walk is a 5.5. mile loop that packs in some of San Diego's best sights and scenery, and it's definitely one your kiddos will never forget. This flat and easy path invites families to explore all seven bridges in Balboa Park and the surrounding neighborhoods of Hillcrest, North Park, and Banker's Hill. The highlight is the suspension bridge at Spruce St. built in 1912 - you'll definitely want a photo here. We recommend starting at the Park Blvd. Bridge on the east side of Park Blvd. at Village Pl. near the Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden. While you conquer each bridge in your quest, there are plenty of charming eateries and coffee shops to refuel along the way.

Bathrooms: Public restrooms are located throughout Balboa Park
Parking: Numerous lots throughout Balboa Park, as well as a large (and free) public lot nearby at the San Diego Zoo

Seven Bridge Walk
E. side of Park Blvd. & Village Pl. (if starting at Park Blvd. Bridge)
San Diego
Online: alltrails.com

 

Annie's Canyon Trail – Solana Beach

Bailey L. for Unsplash

Located in Solana Beach, this fun 1-hour hike in the San Elijo Lagoon Ecological Reserve will treat kids to an epic exploration of the slot canyon, mushroom cave, and stunning sandstone formations. Annie's Canyon Trail begins in a residential area and is super popular, so you may want to visit during the week to avoid the crowds or at the very least go early on the weekends. At the end of the slot canyon is a 15 ft. high steel ladder that allows visitors to exit. If you visit on the weekend, please note it can get crowded making it near impossible to venture back the very narrow way you came in, so make sure all members of your family are able to climb the ladder out or can be carried up.

Good to Know: Given the narrowness of the trail and the ladder at the end, make sure to wear sturdy sneakers or hiking shoes
Bathrooms: No
Parking: Street parking in the neighborhood

Annie's Canyon Trail
150 Solana Point Cir.
Solana Beach
Online: alltrails.com

Hiking Safety & Tips:
1. Always bring more water than you think you need.
2. Wear sturdy shoes and hats and pack plenty of sunscreen.
3. Watch out for snakes and poison ivy along the trails.
4. With the exception of the Seven Bridge Walk, none of these urban hikes are stroller-friendly, but all are perfect for little legs to explore on their own.

Good to know: With so many fabulous urban hiking trails around the city, it’s hard to pick just one. So here’s an easy way to find a trail near you. Open up your phone’s map, zoom in to the green areas and look for the dashed green lines—those indicate trails. You can also type “hikes” or “trails” into your phone’s map and you’ll be surprised to see what pops up around you!

Additional reporting by Bonnie Taylor

 

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9 Scenic Spots to Watch the Sunset in Portland

by Annette Benedetti

Show your kids the meaning of “magic hour” by taking them to one of the best sunset spots in all of Portland

With summer in full swing, a sunset viewing party is something you need to get on the calendar—pronto. It’s quite possibly our all-time favorite free summer family activity. And although we know many of your favorite city picnic spots and hiking trails easily double as sunset-viewing destinations, we think you’ll be surprised by a few of the best places to see the sunset in and around Portland. Head to the waterfront or up to the mountains to see some of the best sunsets Oregon has to offer. Really want to make the most of the evening out with your little ones? Pack some popcorn and all your stargazing supplies to see what you can glimpse in a galaxy far, far away once the sun has said “good night” and a blanket of sparkling stars fill the night sky.

Mt. Tabor

The Eastside’s favorite dormant volcano, Mt. Tabor, offers plenty of hillside space for picnics, fun, and exploration. But when it comes to dusk, it's definitely one of the best places to watch the sunset. Hike the trails, play at the playground, or stroll to the top, then settle in to watch the sun put on a show over the city skyline and the west hills. Just remember that although the park is open until midnight, it's closed to motor traffic after 10 p.m. and all day on Wednesdays.

Insider Tip: The top’s views can be somewhat limited, so spread a blanket out on the west slope over the reservoir. You’ll get to sit and relax and still enjoy the view.

S.E. 60th St. & S.E. Salmon St.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

 

Mocks Crest & Skidmore Bluffs

This simple park on a hill offers tree-shaded areas, grassy open spaces and views of the beautiful Willamette River. You might have to come early to get a spot at this locals' favorite, but the views on the hillside are worth the effort. The bluffs tower above a steep drop down to Swan Island, and the views just can't be beat. This classic picnic site runs for miles above the Willamette River. This may be the best spot North Portland has to offer for killer sunset views.

2206 N. Skidmore Terrace
Online: outdoorproject.com

 

Stonehenge in the Gorge

Cross the veil at twilight and find an otherworldly vista at Stonehenge, Washington. Rather than an ancient Druidic worship site, this replica was built in 1918 as a WWI memorial, but you can still look for a few witches and goblins between the massive stones. Three miles west of the Maryhill Museum of Art, just off Highway 14, the perfect replica is perched on the edge of the Gorge, offering stunning views both ways. It’s the more affordable (and maybe more beautiful) way of visiting Stonehenge.

35 Maryhill Museum Dr.
Goldendale, WA
Online: maryhillmuseum.org

Related: Celebrate Summer at These Amazing Picnic Spots

Pittock Mansion

Built in 1914, the mansion on the hill is a popular destination in Portland. You can take tours inside as late as 5 p.m., but arguably the best attraction is the view of the city. The best views actually face east, but if you weren’t up for the sunrise, you’ll still catch a beautiful scene of the alpenglow on Mt. Hood as the sun sets behind you, casting purple and pink light on the snowy slopes. Also, the extensive grounds of the mansion are a great place for a picnic.

Insider Tip: If a pre-sunset mansion visit is on your list, you can score tickets online to make the trip easier. It's free for kids under 6.

3229 N.W. Pittock Dr.
Online: pittockmansion.org

 

Cathedral Park

Catch the last of the rays between the cathedral-like buttresses of the St. John’s Bridge. Whether you picnic down by the edge of the Willamette or higher in the park, you’ll see the sun dip slowly behind the trees of Forest Park on the west side of the river. It’s debatable whether it’s better under the bridge or above, so come back and test them both out. 

N. Edison St. & Pittsburg Ave.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

 

Council Crest Park

Nestled in the southwest hills, the top of Council Crest offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. You’ll catch the sun setting in the west, and if you turn around you can enjoy the light reflecting off the mountains in the east. It’s a 3.3 mile hike up the top (you can also drive, if that's easier), where you’ll find picnic tables and a vista viewing point with all the best views.

S.W. Council Crest Dr.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Related: 6 Family Forest Park Hikes You Can Do Now

Eastbank Esplanade

Stay close to home by simply heading to the river for the nightly views. Sit behind the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI) on the pier, take an evening stroll or ride bikes up the esplanade and enjoy the glow. The 1.5 mile path includes sections on the water, benches and plenty of place to sit and gaze. Head to the canoe launch and dip your toes on a hot night, or stay up on the main section and watch the sun set behind the Hawthorne Bridge.

S.E. Water Ave. & Hawthorne Blvd.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Related: Free & Cheap Museum Days at Portland's Best Museums

 

Powell Butte Nature Park

The rocky volcanoes of Powell Butte are home to wide meandering trails through a surprising variety of landscapes—wildflower meadows, old-growth forest and cottonwood groves. Many trails are paved, making them an easy stroll, and at the top, markers point to surrounding mountains like Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson and more. At 600-feet high, it’s a spectacular spot to watch the sun dip. And dusk is the best time to look for the park’s normal residents like bats, raccoons, gray foxes and deer.

16160 S.E. Powell Blvd.
Online: portlandoregon.gov

 

Angel’s Rest

For a spectacular view of the entire gorge, challenge yourself to the Angel’s Rest hike. This is best for older kids who can handle the five-mile round trip hike up a steep slope or kids young enough to be carried. The natural amphitheater offers an incredible perspective once you reach the top. There’s a field of boulders on the west side before you reach the ‘summit,’ which is likely a better place to watch the sun go down. Give yourself plenty of time to reach the top before sunset and bring flashlights and headlamps for the hike down.

Insider Tip: There are no guardrails, so be mindful of safety and keep your little ones close!

Bridal Veil Exit #28
Online: stateparks.oregon.gov

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NYC’s Best Playgrounds from Manhattan to the Bronx

by Yuliya Geikhman

Whether you are looking for the best playgrounds in Central Park, or ones that have been renovated in the last few years, this list has it all

NYC’s playgrounds were already awesome, but recent upgrades have made many of them even more epic destinations of fun for kids (and parents!). No matter what your kid’s age or style of play is, there’s an NYC playground for them.

We’ve rounded up all of our intel on the best NYC parks and playgrounds for kids—from the best playgrounds from around the city’s boroughs (including Brooklyn and Manhattan playgrounds), to cool splash pads and shady spots to cool down in the summer. Pack up some water, a change of clothes, a towel, and some snacks…and go play!

Our Favorite Manhattan Playgrounds

Teardrop Park in Battery Park

The two-acre, sustainable Teardrop Park was designed by child development experts and it shows. The park’s play elements are integrated into the awesome landscape, which allows children to interact with water, plants, rock, and sand. The shadier southern half of the park features a rock step-path that leads up to a long slide, two sand pits, “theatre steps,” and a water playground. The northern half of the park features a broad lawn (which receives lots of sunlight), park benches, a wetland, and a perched gathering area made from rocks, the last of which is an installation created by artist Ann Hamilton.

Dividing these two areas is a large wall, composed of rocks brought to lower Manhattan from elsewhere in New York State. A short tunnel connects the two areas, and paths crisscross the site, providing elevated views within the park and beyond as well as connections across the park. It’s a hidden gem of a spot for those really looking to connect with nature and take a literal few steps out of the hustle and bustle of New York City.

Restrooms: Located at the northwest corner and in the lower level of the Solaire Building, across the street from the Park House.

Warren St. in Battery Park
Battery Park City
Online: mvvainc.com

Battery Playscape in Battery Park
This playground is a natural-feeling oasis located right alongside the Seaglass Carousel that opened in 2021. The play structures draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape and feature open-ended play. There are plenty of spaces to run, play, slide, and climb, and the designs feature plenty of fun shapes and textures to look at and touch. Plus, it was opened with Hurricane Sandy in mind, and the entire space (including the plants) is designed to “flood and recover” in case of flooding. Battery Playscape is also home to ShowBox, a small stage that frequently hosts free plays, puppet shows, improv sessions, and more.

Restrooms: None on-site, but there are restrooms just a few minutes walk from the playground.

20 State St.
Battery Park City
Online: thebattery.org

Toll Family Playground in Central Park
The Toll Family Playground is a prime spot for toddlers and preschool kids, offering a full selection of features for a wide variety of play. The hallmark of the playground is two small house structures, a nod to similar shelters from the playground’s original 1936 design. (The playground was renovated in 2018.)

You’ll also find a smaller slide and play structure, swings, spinner, and spring toys, and an area for sand play that’s sized for smaller children. The playground is located at the base of Summit Rock, the highest point in the park and a popular point of interest.

Restrooms: None on-site. The closest park restrooms are located at Delacorte Theater, around 80th Street.

West side of Central Park at 84th Street, near Mariner’s Gate 85th Street entrance
Upper West Side
Online: centralparknyc.org

Billy Johnson Playground in Central Park
Inspired by the Central Park nature that surrounds it, this playground is like a miniature version of the park.  The playground received a facelift in 2018, adding more opportunities for play and interaction while maintaining its charming natural feel. Kids can slide down granite slides (meant to feel like a smaller version of sliding down one of the park’s famous rock formations), walk across a miniature bridge, follow natural-feeling trails, or hang out in the wooden play structure.

Restrooms: Be aware that the closest restrooms are located at Heckscher Playground, which is a bit of a walk.

East Side at 67th
Upper East Side
Online: centralparknyc.org

Pier 25 Playground at Hudson River Park

River Park’s Pier 25 Playground is the golden ticket of playgrounds with a rock climbing wall, two space-age climbing structures for big kids, small slides for toddlers, a modern merry-go-round, a roomy sandbox, multiple swing sets, and a huge water play area. Not to mention, it’s next door to a skate park, snack shack, mini-golf course (for a fee), beach volleyball court, and soccer field.

Need more? Kids can explore a historic steamship and tugboat! The park also features an on-site Art Shack, where kids can get crafty and creative at no cost. Ice cream and light snacks can be purchased nearby for a good cause: Proceeds support the park and Manhattan-based youth programs.

Restrooms: Find the restrooms near the pier entrance along the walking path, close to the playground.

North Moore St. at Hudson River
Tribeca
Online: hudsonriverpark.org

Dinosaur Playground in Riverside Park
This playground has swings, two sandboxes, a summer spray shower, lots of places to climb, and plenty of shade provided by large trees. But the playground’s main attraction is its namesake: two fiberglass dinosaurs! The Triceratops and hadrosaur (which you may recognize by its other name, a duckbill dinosaur) offer a whimsical space for climbing and imaginative play. Plus, Dinosaur Playground is located in Riverside Park, which has spectacular views of the Hudson River and New Jersey, and many places to explore and rest when the little ones have had their fill of playing.

Restrooms: The playground has a restroom at 97th Street & Riverside Drive.

6681 Riverside Dr.
Upper West Side
Online: nycgovparks.org

The Ancient Playground in Central Park

https://www.instagram.com/p/CqQoKWVOobS/?hidecaption=true

 

The Ancient Playground is one of Central Park’s adventure-style playgrounds, which features play structures that you wouldn’t normally find in a traditional playground. The popular play spot is inspired by the Egyptian exhibits at the nearby Metropolitan Museum of Art, located a stone’s throw away from the playground. It’s a perfect place to visit for a picnic and some fun in the sun after a trip to the museum.

Kids can scramble around on the pyramids, obelisk, and sundial—or frolic in the sandbox, swings, and slides. Sprinklers will cool down steaming kiddos on hot days. Be on the lookout for some beautiful sculptures depicting different fairy tales scattered throughout the playground, like a brass squirrel and peacock, and various storybook fables on the playground gates.

Restrooms: On-site restrooms are available from 7 a.m. until dusk.

East Side at 85th St.
Upper East Side
Online: centralparknyc.org

Indian Road Playground at Inwood Hill Park
Named after the Indian settlement that used to stand on the site, Indian Road Playground is a community space that’s maintained and fundraised by the Friends of the Indian Road Playgrond organization. The playground is made up of muted browns and blues, looking like it belongs in the middle of the natural space it resides in. It’s themed around chess and checkers, complete with pawn-shaped sprinklers and a checkerboard painted on the pavement. There’s also a complete playground set, including a wooden climbing structure and swings. Rocks form places to climb or sit, making for a hybrid naturalistic and modern playground space for all ages.

Restrooms: Yes, restrooms are available.

570 W. 214th St.
Inwood
Online: nycgovparks.org

Discovery Playground in Fort Washington Park
The Discovery Playground is built right into its surroundings, with slides and benches standing literally at the bases of large trees. This means there’s plenty of shade all summer long, and that kids can interact with both structured playground equipment and unstructured imaginative play with the surrounding natural environment. There’s a charming treehouse made of tree trunks, a rope web for climbing, a mini-mountain of rocks, and a sand pit.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available; however, they’re not wheelchair-accessible.

Hudson River Greenway at W. 163rd St.
Washington Heights
Online: nycgovparks.org

Bloomingdale Playground in the UWS
The fun checkered floor, the curved structures, and the circular gear kinetic fixtures make Bloomingdale Playground look like a steampunk park. Besides looking incredibly stylish, this playground uses a special “universal design” concept, which emphasizes accessible design for all children. The playground merges equipment meant for different levels of physical and mental ability, encouraging interaction between children who might otherwise be delegated to different parts of the playground.

Restrooms: Yes, the playground has restrooms.

Amsterdam Ave. & W. 104th St.
Upper West Side
Online: nycgovparks.org

Our Favorite Brooklyn Playgrounds

Domino Park Playground

This playground is part of Domino Park, a five-acre park that opened in 2018. Built on the former site of the Domino Sugar Factory in North Williamsburg, this park provides gorgeous views of the East River. Domino Park is home to a one-of-a-kind playground designed by Mark Reigelman that’s inspired by the sugar refining process. It’s as fun to play in as it is to look at, with slides short and steep, ladders to scale, web tunnels to traverse, pulleys, platforms and stairs. There’s seating nearby for grownups, and faux turf for relaxing on. Tacos from the park’s food vendor Tacocina are nearby, but expect a line. Take note that wildly-popular pizza place Roberta’s has a location nearby at 6 Grand Street.

Restrooms: In the park, a short stroll away (very nice trailers when we visited).

15 River St. (Entrances along Kent Ave. at South 5th, South 3rd, and Grand Streets)
Williamsburg
Online: dominopark.com

Pier 3 at Brooklyn Bridge Park
While not exactly a playground, Pier 3 is worth checking out with the kids for at least a couple of reasons. First, it’s the final pier to be converted to park space in Brooklyn Bridge Park, in 2018. Second, it’s home to numerous interactive pieces, many of which happen to demonstrate scientific principles of sound and light. On one part of the pier, hedges of various shapes and sizes create a natural labyrinth with surprises around every turn: a walk-in kaleidoscope (extra large mirrored panels) parabolic reflectors, sound tubes, dance chimes, and stone seating from Gunther Beltzig. When you’re done, head to the massive open lawn to run around or lounge.

Restrooms: Not here; the closest one is one pier over on Pier 2, in the orange building.

334 Furman St.
Dumbo
Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

Harmony Playground in Prospect Park
Located next to the Prospect Park bandshell, this enormous playground was designed with music in mind. Little ones will find the harp and trumpet-shaped sprinklers totally refreshing in warmer weather. When they’re done, they can clang out a tune on the larger-than-life xylophones. Jungle gym equipment areas featuring slides, ramps and ladders are available for both toddlers and big kids.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available, but we recommend that you bring wipes as they’re not always stocked.

Prospect Park West between 9th and 11th Streets
Park Slope
Online: prospectpark.org

Zucker Natural Exploration Area in Prospect Park
When life throws an unexpected hurricane at you, you make the best of it. And that’s exactly what Prospect Park did with the Zucker Natural Exploration Area, which uses natural materials like trees that were damaged by Hurricane Sandy in 2012. The result is a very natural and unstructured playground for kids of all ages, allowing children to closely interact with nature.

Restrooms: None on-site. There are public bathrooms north and southwest from the playground.

Northeast section of Prospect Park
Prospect Lefferts Gardens
Online: prospectpark.org

Pier 6 Playgrounds in Brooklyn Bridge Park

This playground is, quite frankly, absurd in its offerings. A giant wooden teepee with slide exit, large spherical climbing structures and more slides built into the landscape are just a few of the highlights. On warm days, the Water Lab is packed with kids of all ages splashing around in the sprinklers and wading pool area. If they prefer to stay dry, your tots can put their building skills to the test in one of the city’s largest sandboxes. Looking for high-flying fun? Check out Swing Valley’s ten swing sets and Tarzan rope. Not for nothing: the landscaping, nearby waterside, and yummy food vendors at the park don’t hurt either.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available (at the Fornino Pizza building near the Water Lab).

Atlantic Ave. at Joralemon
Brooklyn Heights
Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

Main Street Playground in Brooklyn Bridge Park
Your little pirates will love this nautical-themed playground located in the shadow of the Manhattan Bridge on Pier 1 of Brooklyn Bridge Park. Kids can climb aboard the ship-shaped playground equipment and peep through portholes, race across bridges, or whiz down the twisty slide. A boat-shaped sandbox provides yet another spot for sunny day diversions.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available nearby at Pier 1.

Plymouth & Main St.
Dumbo
Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

Betsy Head Memorial Playground at Betsy Head Park
After a multi-year, $30 million overhaul, this Brownsville park has everything you could want. Additions include a skate park, a parkour course, an inclusionary basketball course for self-competition, handball and basketball courts, an event space, running track, athletic field, traverse wall and new play structures. Plus new plantings, game tables and renovated bathrooms. The park is also home to the city’s second Imagination Playground—a collection of large blue foam building blocks that encourage creativity and collaboration. (The first one, located in Manhattan’s Seaport District, is one of our favorites in the city.) Plus: there’s a huge pool in the summer.

Restrooms: The playground has wheelchair-accessible restrooms.

Dumont Ave. & Thomas S. Boyland St.
Brownsville
Online: nycgovparks.org

North Side Playground in Ft. Greene Park
Also affectionately known as New Fort Greene Park, this playground can be a nice alternative to the often-crowded play area on the other side of the park. The main attraction is a huge, fort-shaped structure, complete with slides, ramps, monkey bars and a couple of treehouse-like hangouts. A separate toddler area is available for the smaller set, complete with baby swings and pint-sized climbing equipment. Take a break from playing to check out the pillars surrounding the playground to learn the official state animal of each of the thirteen original colonies. (Spoiler alert: New York’s is not a pigeon, it’s a beaver.)

Restrooms: There’s a comfort station on-site.

Myrtle Ave. and St. Edwards Place
Fort Greene
Online: nycgovparks.org

Leif Ericson Park Playground in Bay Ridge
Named for Viking Leif Ericson, one of the first Europeans to set foot on North American soil, it’s fitting that the equipment at this playground has a Viking theme. Kids can climb the oar ladders and run across the wooden planks in the Viking ship-shaped play structure, or run through the flower-shaped sprinklers in the water play area.  While the park tends to get crowded, it still has a true neighborhood feel.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available.

Shore Road between 3rd and 4th Avenues
Bay Ridge
Online: nycgovparks.org

Lincoln Terrace Park Playground in Crown Heights
Opened in 2019, this bright new play space forms a circular portion in Lincoln Terrace / Arthur S. Somers Park. It has separate play areas for big and small kids, slides, rope webs for climbing, and tons of monkey bars for kids to clamber around on. Besides the typical playground fare, the playground has some more open-ended play fixtures, like integrated natural spaces, colorful “stepping stones,” and some adorable little hobbit houses. There are sprinklers on-site as well, to cool down little visitors in the summer heat.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available, but they’re not wheelchair-accessible.

East New York Ave.
Crown Heights
Online: nycgovparks.org

Our Favorite Queens Playgrounds

Gantry Plaza State Park

Part sprinkler, part sculpture, and the water feature at Gantry Plaza State Park is not only cool-looking, but it also helps conserve water, operating for 45 minutes at a time. The shiny metal rods are kid-activated, and users can also regulate the water pressure as well. Nearby hammocks and seats offer a place to rest and enjoy the spectacular view of midtown. Don’t forget to take a stroll in the 12-acre riverside park and marvel at the Pepsi Cola sign or the large metal gantries—vestiges of the shipping industry—the structures that give the park its name.

Restrooms: The playground has restrooms by the basketball courts.

4-09 47th Rd.
Long Island City
Online: parks.ny.gov

Playground for All Children in Flushing Meadows Corona Park
This playground was specially designed to be accessible to children with disabilities. It was the first of its kind when it opened in 1984, and served as inspiration for others to open in other locations in NYC, as well as across the United States. The equipment is meant to accommodate kids ages 3 through 12, and features play structures that allow kids who use crutches, walkers, canes, or wheelchairs to enjoy the same kind of fun that able-bodied kids can achieve. The space includes a race track that surrounds an ADA-accessible splash pad, a 12-foot-long suspension bridge that’s equipped with safety measures, slides, and swings—all created to be accessible for all children. Plus, plaques around the park teach kids about nature in English and braille.

Restrooms: Yes, located at 111 Street and Corona Avenue.

11101 Corona Ave.
Corona
Online: nycgovparks.org

Astoria Heights Playground
The Astoria Heights Playground is a stylishly industrial space with gleaming steel and a slick design. It was recently renovated and now houses a curved climbing wall, some exercise equipment for adults, and a set of 10 spray jets for a splashing good time. The space caters to kids of all ages, from tots to teens. Parents will love it for the calm picnic area, where families can wind down and relax after an exciting romp through the park

Restrooms: Yes, public restrooms are available here.

30th Rd.
Astoria
Online: nycgovparks.org

Paul Raimonda Playground in Astoria
Take your little composers and performers out to this musical playground in Astoria for a frolicing fun time. The playground was originally called the Steinway Community Playground, named after the famous piano makers Steinway & Sons. Despite the new name (renamed to honor Paul Raimonda, a local community activist), the playground retains its musical origins in the play structures on offer. The main attraction is the piano-shaped sprinkler system, but there’s also a lyrical flow to the rest of the playground’s structures, which rise up and down like a melody. Though if this goes over your tot’s head, they’ll still love to cross the piano bridge or climb over and under the different curved structures.

Restrooms: There are restrooms in the playground.

47th Street &, 20th Ave.
Astoria
Online: nycgovparks.org

Jurassic Playground in Flushing Meadows Corona Park
The Jurassic Playground and its sister playground across the lake, the Triassic Playground are themed around—of course—dinosaurs! The playground pays homage to “Dinoland,” an exhibit from the 1964-5 World’s Fair held in Flushing Meadows Park. Alongside swings and monkey bars, the playground has some dino-inspired structures, like a curved ladder built like the spines of a stegosaurus. There’s also a large apatosaurus structure, and dino art depicting every kid’s favorites, from the triceratops to the ankylosaurus.

Restrooms: None in the playground. The closest restrooms are by the basketball courts north of the playground, on Grand Central Parkway.

Meadow Lake Dr. & Meadow Lake Trail
Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Online: nycgovparks.org

Our Favorite Bronx Playgrounds

Roberto Clemente State Park

Not only does this Bronx park feature an Olympic-size pool, you’ll also find a new sprayground with more than 20 spray features in a rainbow of colors and multiple shapes. The 25-acre waterfront park runs along the Harlem River and charges a nominal fee ($2 for adults, $1 for kids) to use the pool complex.

Restroom: Yes. In fact, this park boasts the city park’s first gender-neutral restroom.

301 West Tremont Ave.
University Heights
Online: parks.ny.gov

St. Mary’s Playground West in South Bronx

St. Mary’s Park is the largest park in South Bronx, and, as such, it’s pretty popular with the community. There are three playgrounds in the park, and all are worth a visit. The western playground was newly updated in 2019 and is now home to brand new play equipment and safety flooring in bright and colorful patterns, sprinklers for hot summer days, and a new adult fitness equipment section. There are now also more spaces to sit, including picnic tables, as well as renovated basketball courts. While you’re there, take a dip in the recreation center’s indoor pool! (You’ll need a membership to NYC’s system of park rec centers.)

Restrooms: Yes, ADA-compliant restrooms can be found in the playground.

519 St Ann’s Ave.
South Bronx
Online: nycgovparks.org

Our Favorite Staten Island Playgrounds

E.M.T. Christopher J. Prescott Playground
If you have a child who’s on the autism spectrum, they’ll feel right at home at this playground. Renamed in 1997 after a local Staten Island E.M.T. (he attended the school that stands by the playground), who died in the line of duty. The playground received a facelift in 2021, and now includes a brand new Sensory Playground, designed specifically for kids with autism. There are lots of spaces to interact with, including a depiction of the sign language alphabet, sensory boards for a variety of tactile feedback, metal drums, and more… in addition to the usual swing and climbing set. Sprinklers in the shape of rocks adorn the accessible splash pad, and there are some unique play spots like a slide composed of rollers for even more sensory feedback.

Restrooms: Yes, there are accessible restrooms in the playground.

Irvington St.
Staten Island
Online: nycgovparks.org

Seaside Wildlife Nature Playground

Never has anyone been so excited to be shipwrecked! This Staten Island playground is also known as Pirate Park and features a huge boat to explore and fun play equipment to climb. Structures are inspired by well-known Island mainstays like the Staten Island Ferry and the Lighthouse, and once the kids are done climbing, they can cool off in the spray showers.

Restrooms: There are no public restrooms in the park or the surrounding area, so come prepared. (Restrooms are planned but have been in the works for over five years now.)

Nelson Ave. & Tennyson Dr.
Great Kills, Staten Island
Online: nycgovparks.org

Other Awesome NYC Playgrounds

play:groundNYC at Governors Island

This playground is more like a junkyard, and heads up: parents aren’t allowed in! Kids are given free reign to discover, create, and build (with real tools!) as they wish. The space is watched over by trained “playworkers,” who support kids in their play, and help assess risk and keep things safe. Other than these helpers, the kids have all the power over how they play and what their play space looks like. The Yard is only open on weekends, April through November. It’s free to play, but note that there tends to be a wait.

And while you’re here on Governors Island, you don’t want to miss the other play spaces it has to offer. We highly recommend having a go at Slide Hill, which includes a slide that’s a whopping three stories tall, and checking out the Hammock Grove Play Area, where kids can clamber around on naturalistic structures made of logs and ropes.

Restrooms: Restrooms are located all around the island.

40 Barry Rd.
Governors Island
Online: play-ground.nyc

Imagination Playground

Imagination Playground, designed by famed architect (and dad) David Rockwell, is an interactive play space that prompts kids to engage in unstructured creative free play and make a play space of their own. Kids use sand, water and loose parts like giant foam blocks, mats, and fabric to engage in fantasy and cooperative play, as well as good old fashioned running around like nuts.

The flagship Imagination Playground is located near South Street Seaport at Burling Slip (South St., Front St. and John St.). Additional Imagination Playgrounds pop up in playgrounds around the city as well. Check the NYC Parks page to find a location near you!

Multiple locations
Online: nycgovparks.org

Best NYC Parks with Shade

Catbird Playground in Carl Schurz Park
Located on the south end of Yorkville’s lovely Carl Schurz Park (also home to the mayoral residence, Gracie Mansion) Catbird Playground takes its name from a James Thurber short story. You’ll find climbing structures, swings, monkey bars, rings, a sandbox and spray showers—all under the cover of shade mature trees. The park, home to two dog runs, is also known for being very dog-friendly.

Restrooms: Yes, restrooms are available.

East End Avenue and 84th St
Yorkville
Online: nycgovparks.org

Hippo Playground in Riverside Park

If hippos don’t know how to keep cool, who does? Much beloved by the community, the Safari Playground takes its more common name “Hippo Playground” from the impossible-to-miss Bob Cassily hippopotamus statues found “frolicking” in the park.  A particularly good spot for young ones, the playground includes swings, a wood play structure, a jungle gym, a slide, a soft play surface, a sand pit, and a spray fountain. There are also picnic tables and a cool Joan of Arc statue at 93rd Street, just a brief walk away. Lots of seasonal events take place here, so be on the lookout for fun things in the works.

Restrooms: Restrooms are available on-site.

W. 91st St. and Riverside Dr.
Upper West Side
Online: nycgovparks.org

Billy Johnson Playground in Central Park
This rustic and naturalistic playground has miniatures of Central Park features, like a mini-Gapstow Bridge and granite slides meant to recreate the experience of climbing on and sliding down one of the park’s huge rock formations. The playground is located in the middle one of the more wooded areas of the park, which means tons of trees casting comfortable shade onto the play areas. A number of pergolas provide additional shade on the playground and over the benches.

Restrooms: The closest restrooms are located at Heckscher Playground.

East Side at 67th
Upper East Side
Online: centralparknyc.org

Pier One at Brooklyn Bridge Park
An unsung hero in Brooklyn Bridge Park (often overshadowed, so to speak, by Slide Mountain and Swing Valley over on Pier 6) the Pier 1 play space is notable for a couple of reasons. While we love the playgrounds at BBP, shade can be sparse. However, this playground is an exception and is mercifully surrounded by greenery. It’s tucked away and feels like a hidden sanctuary!

The playground is also a fantastic space for the younger set; babies and toddlers can explore low-lying turtles, a colorful mini house and climbing structure, and enjoy some swing time.

Restrooms: The closest restrooms are located on Pier One, in a trailer near Lizzmonade. There are more restrooms on Pier 2, under Squibb Bridge.

Brooklyn Bridge Park (near ferry and water taxi docks)
2 Furman St.
Online: brooklynbridgepark.org

St. Mary’s Playground in Gowanus
It’s so limiting to think of shade coming just from trees. In the city—and in the proud industrial Brooklyn neighborhood of Gowanus—the shade comes from train tracks overhead. It sounds counter-intuitive, but this playground, located beneath the F/G train overpass, is a pleasant place to spend some time. It features ADA-accessible playground equipment for kids of all ages, lots of room to roam, a safety surface underfoot, and gentle spray showers that are activated at the touch of a button.

Restrooms: The playground has restrooms.

422 Smith St. (between Nelson and Huntington)
Carroll Gardens/Gowanus
Online: nycgovparks.org

Charybdis Playground in Astoria Park

Taking its name from Greek mythology (Charybdis was the daughter of Poseidon, and responsible for some rough waters near Sicily) this playground is found on the western edge of Astoria Park. In addition to shade, this park offers lovely views of the East River, and the Triborough and Hells Gate Bridges, as well as photo-worthy sunsets. Bonus: It underwent major renovations a few years ago and the splash pad area is epic! Plus, Astoria Park is also home to one of our favorite free public pools in the city.

Restrooms: Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located in the playground.

Shore Blvd. and 19th St. at 23rd Rd.
Astoria
Online: nycgovparks.org

 

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12 Best Bike Paths near DC for Families

by Meghan Yudes Meyers

Whether you’ve got a tricycle, a balance bike, or two wheels, here are the best family-friendly bike paths near DC

Taking a family bike ride is a great way to stay healthy and explore more of your hometown all at once. The real challenge is finding a bike trail that’s right for everyone in your crew. Whether you’ve got a few trikes and balance bikes in your group or are ready to hit the bigger trails on two wheels, keep reading to discover our favorite bike trails for families near DC.  

The Best Bike Paths near DC for Beginner Bikers

If your little ones have just started to pedal on their own, head out to one of these easy, kid-friendly loops. It’s never too early to start your family bike riding tradition.

1. Metropolitan Branch Trail

This rail-to-trail runs 8 miles from Silver Spring, MD to Union Station, but for now, you can hop on between NoMa and upper Northeast for an easy, 4-mile ride. There is a steep section in the Fort Trotten area, so little peddlers may want to skip this section or walk their bikes up the steep hill. While this trail lacks the views and greenery of some of the other trails featured on this list, it does boast a number of murals and public art works. This trail is used frequently by commuters, so weekend rides are best for those looking to avoid heavy cycle traffic.

Online: traillink.com

2. Rock Creek Park

Head to Beach Dr. on a weekend or holiday when the road is closed, and your little one can ride their bikes in a city street! If you’re going to take to a trail, hit a path during workday hours to avoid other cyclists. If you start on the north end of the park and head south, your kiddos can coast mostly downhill (of course, that requires some pre-planning for when you reach the bottom).

Online: nps.gov

3. Anacostia Riverwalk

Families love this 20-mile path that circles the Anacostia River. Since it isn’t a commuter trail, it tends to be less crowded and intense than some of the other paths in and around the city. The full trail runs from the Tidal Basin in DC to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, but you can hop on and off wherever you like. And getting to see views of the city you don’t normally get to see, plus fun ponds make stopping for a break even more enjoyable.

Online: ddot.dc.gov

4. National Mall

Enjoy a family bike tour of the National Mall with Bike & Roll (or simply rent a cycle from their fleet for a no hassle day out). Or BYOB (bring your own bike), and enjoy the flat, easy-to-navigate trails and paths around the Smithsonian museums and national monuments. If you plan on visiting a Smithsonian Museum during your day out, some of the museums require advance tickets so be sure to reserve your entry ticket ahead of time.

Online: nationalmall.org

5. Glencarlyn Park Learning Loop

This short loop just off the W&OD trail in Glencarlyn Park is paved, striped and the perfect place for beginners. Kids and other learners can get used to riding on a trail while also picking up important trail etiquette before moving onto bigger paths. A handy water bottle filler station keeps everyone happy and refreshed.

Online: arlingtonva.us

6. Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail

Save for a half-mile uphill section between Oxon Hill Rd. and the Woodrow Wilson Bridge, this roughly 3.5-mile trail is flat and easy. 

Online: pgparks.com

The Best Bike Paths near DC for Bikers

When your crew is comfortable on their wheels and ready for a longer trek, try one of these paths for a bit more challenge and a lot of fun.

1. U.S. National Arboretum

There is so much to see and so much land to cover, consider checking out the U.S. National Arboretum by bike! Sections of the trails and paths are hilly, so it is best for older kiddos who are steady on their bikes and have stamina (or for younger kids willing to hop off and walk their bikes up steeper sections).

Online: usna.usda.gov

 

2. Capital Crescent Trail

The 11-mile Capital Crescent Trail runs from Georgetown to Silver Spring and offers lovely Potomac River views. Go southbound for a mostly downhill ride or travel north for a bit more of a challenge. Note that the path is paved between Georgetown and Bethesda but turns to gravel as you continue north.

Good to Know: There are no public restrooms along the trail. 

Online: cctrail.org

3. Hains Point

While this roughly 4-mile loop can see some car traffic, it’s rather limited, especially on weekends when part of Ohio Dr. is closed to cars. The perks of taking on this path are the views of the city’s best memorials. 

Online: recreation.gov

4. Washington & Old Dominion Trail

Hop on and off this 45-mile path that runs between Shirlington and Purceville, through Falls Church, Arlington, Reston, and more. It is paved the entire way, making it a favorite route for serious cyclists and commuters. But don’t let that scare you off. As long as your crew is steady on their bikes and aware of proper biking etiquette, the trail is a great place to get a ride in.

Online: novaparks.com

5. Sligo Creek Trail

Start in Hyattsville, and bike the 10.6-mile path that runs through Takoma Park and ends at Wheaton Regional Park.

Good to Know: Other sections of this nearby DC bike trail can be hilly with busy street crossings.

Online: montgomeryparks.org

6. Mount Vernon Trail

Winding from Theodore Roosevelt Island to Mount Vernon, this 18-mile trail is largely flat and mostly car free, making it the perfect path to hop on and off of with little ones. You’ll share the trail, and its panoramic views of DC’s monuments and wetlands, with bikers, joggers, and dog walkers. The trail is dotted with plenty of water fountains and picnic tables for when everyone needs a break.

Online: nps.gov

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13 Things to Do with Kids on Friday the 13th

by Amber Guetebier

Reverse your bad luck with some seriously sweet ways to spend this superstitious day

On Friday the 13th there’s no reason to get superstitious about bad luck: try doing some seriously fun things in numbers of 13. We can’t promise you good luck, but we can guarantee a baker’s dozen of smiles. Read on for our ideas.

1. Stand on one foot for 13 seconds. Too easy? Transition to the other foot for 13 without falling. Still need a bigger challenge, raise your hands up and down 13 times.

2. Write a poem with only 13 words.

3. Get out the jump rope and hop 13 times in a row without messing up. If you’re out of practice, this can be trickier than it sounds.

4. Make a baker’s dozen! Make a dozen cookies + one for the baker to test.

5. Create a drawing that has all of these 13 different things:  a bunny, a superhero, a magical creature, a forest, a tiny house, a castle, a flower bed, a skyscraper, a truck, a river, a kid, a boat, a bridge. (Or pick your own list of 13 things!)

6. Sound out 13 animal sounds (for example, a dog’s bark, a cat’s meow, a lion’s roar, etc.)

7. Get out a deck of cards and sort them into the four suites. Count each stack (hint: there are 13 in each).

8. Tell your kiddo 13 things you love about them (and ask them the same about you or another family member).

9. Name 13 things that start with the letter T.

10. Find a word that has 12 other rhyming words. (Hint: “fry” works!)

11. Do 13 jumping jacks.

12. Make a dish with 13 ingredients (pizza works well for this, and yes you can count the yeast and flour).

13. Give out 13 kisses for Friday the 13th. This should be an easy one.

 

RELATED STORIES 

13 Freaky-Cool Things About the Number 13

16 Friday Night Traditions to Start Tonight 

How to Host a Movie Night with Kids 

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Tickle Your Funny Bone: 20 Jokes for Bay Area Kids

by Kate Loweth

What’s the safest place to be during an earthquake?

Need a little levity in your life? These Bay Area jokes for kids are a great way to kick your day off in the right direction. Scroll down for silly jokes, corny jokes, and quite a few earthquake jokes. Share them with your little ones to get the laughs rolling!

iStock

1. What do you call a seagull living in San Francisco?

A baygull.

2. Why is it so cold in San Francisco?

Giant fans.

3. It took 10 workers 10 days to build the Golden Gate Bridge.  How long would it take 5 workers to build the same bridge?

None—it’s already built!

—Liam, age 7 

4. Which 49ers player can jump higher than a house?

All of them—houses can’t jump at all.

5. Where do you find hungry 49ers?

The golden arches.

6. What card game do Niners fans play?

Golden Gate Bridge.

7. What runs around Levi’s Stadium but never moves?

A wall. 

8. What did 49ers fans think about the new lights at Levi’s Stadium?

They gave them GLOWING reviews.

9. Who put all these mountains in California?

It wasn’t me, it was all San Andreas’ fault!

10. What was the earthquake's punishment?

It was grounded.

11. What happens when you get nervous during an earthquake? 

You start shaking uncontrollably.

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12. What's the safest place to be during an earthquake? 

A stationary store.

13. What did one earthquake say to the other?

It's not my fault!

14. What's the worst nightmare of an Etch-A-Sketch artist?

An earthquake.

15. What do you get when there’s an earthquake at a cow pasture?

Milk shakes.

16. Did you hear about the recent earthquake research?

The information is groundbreaking.

17. What did the ground say to the earthquake?

You crack me up.

18. Where do you find missing angels?

Lost Angeles

19. Where do waffles go on vacation?

Sandy Eggo.

20. Where in California does everyone have minty fresh breath?

Sacra-mentos.

 

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17 Fascinating Facts about San Francisco That Every Kid Should Know

by Kate Loweth

Where can you find an albino alligator? What is the most crooked street in SF (hint: it’s not what you think!)?

If you’ve ever had a kid rattle off a million facts about seagulls, you know they are total sponges for any sort of trivia. These fun and weird facts about San Francisco will give the kids a little knowledge about the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco’s most famous ice cream sandwich, the iconic PIER 39 sea lions, and more. Share these over your next family dinner!

sonuba via unsplash

1. The average speed of a cable car is 9.5 mph. Better hold on tight!

2. Popular in Chinese cuisine, the fortune cookie was invented in San Francisco by the Japanese Hagiwara family at Golden Gate Park's Tea Garden. It's free to visit the Golden Gate Cookie Factory in SF but it will cost you 50 cents to take pictures! 

3. The famous 1906 earthquake and the fire that followed destroyed much of San Francisco but Redwood trees helped salvage the city. Redwood trees take in a lot of water and have a low resin content. When the fire reached a building made of Redwood, it didn't burn as quickly because the resin is what makes wood flammable. 

4. The sea lions moved into their home at PIER 39 after the 1989 Loma Prieta earthquake. You can check them out via their webcam. How can you tell the difference between sea lions and seals? Sea lions have flaps for outer ears (while seals have none) and sea lions are far more vocal than their seal cousins. 

5. The Golden Gate Bridge isn't really red (or golden for that matter). The official color is International Orange and it was not supposed to be the permanent color of the bridge. Suggestions of black and yellow stripes as well as candy cane red and white stripes were made by the U.S. military. But the architect Irving Morrow chose International Orange as it was able to be seen in the fog and contrasted nicely with the surrounding landscape. 

6. Ghirardelli Chocolate was started by Domenico Ghirardelli in 1849 when he was selling chocolate and other goods to gold rush miners. He moved to San Francisco in 1852 to open his chocolate factory. Ghirardelli is the largest, continuously-operated chocolate producer in the U.S. There are three chocolate shops in Ghirardelli Square and you are always welcomed with a free piece of chocolate when you visit. 

7. The San Francisco Municipal Railway has quite a collection of streetcars that run along Market Street. You can ride vintage streetcars from Portugal, England, Japan, Australia, Italy, and more!

Ameer Basheer via unsplash

8. Lombard Street is known as the most crooked street in San Francisco. It was designed in 1922 when it was determined that the street's 27% grade was too steep for cars and pedestrians. But did you know that there's another street in SF that should probably take the title for the most crooked street? Potrero Hill's Vermont Street between 20th and 22nd has even tighter curves than Lombard. 

9. For an epic view of San Francisco and beyond, visitors often head to Twin Peaks. You can walk up the wooden stairs to the top of both peaks and see all the way to Marin. Did you know that the peaks have names? The north peak is "Eureka" and the south is "Noe." 

10. Golden Gate Park stretches over 1,000 acres. It was designed by a 25-year-old civil engineer and the park's tallest monument is a 64-foot cross hidden somewhere behind Rainbow Falls, one of the park's two waterfalls. 

Kate Loweth

11. While you are aware that Alcatraz holds a spot in history as the island prison to house Al Capone, do you know how Alcatraz got its name? The island of Alcatraz was first discovered in 1775 by Spanish explorer Juan Manuel de Ayala, who named it "La Isla de los Alcatraces," or the "Island of the Pelicans." It was later anglicized to "Alcatraz." It's actually believed that this name was meant for nearby Yerba Buena Island but maps of the day were less than accurate. 

12. There used to be an aerial tram called the "Sky Tram" that passed over the Sutro Baths between the Cliff House and Point Lobos. It closed in 1965. 

13. The iconic ice cream treat Its-Its were created in San Francisco. A scoop of ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal cookies and dipped in chocolate, Its-Its come in many flavors and you can purchase them all at the Burlingame factory store. 

14. Have you noticed that many San Francisco street names are stamped into the concrete (often with misspellings)? While it is largely believed that these came about after the 1906 earthquake to provide orientation when street signs were destroyed, the practice actually started in 1905 and street signs weren't common until the 1920s.

15. When the Bay Bridge opened in 1936, the toll was 65 cents. 

16. Made popular by the opening credits of Full House, Alamo Square's Painted Ladies are Queen Anne Victorians designed to show off the wealth of the gold rush period with turrets, excessive windows, and decorated roof lines. 

17. The most popular resident of the California Academy of Sciences is Claude, the albino alligator. 

 

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Share These 13 Weird & Wacky Seattle Facts with Your Kids

by Alaina Weimer

Check out these 13 tidbits of Seattle trivia that even the savviest Seattleite might be surprised to learn

Are you raising a kiddo whose cute, scholarly nose is always stuck in a weird-but-true book? Or are you someone who can’t wait to share your cerebral, oddball trivia knowledge with your awestruck crew? If this speaks to you and your fam, you won’t be disappointed with this kooky list of fun facts about Seattle! Check out these 13 tidbits of trivia about our Emerald (or shall we say Eclectic!) City that even the savviest Seattleite might be surprised to learn.

Pink Elephant Car Wash

Sure, Seattle has the super iconic Space Needle and many other landmarks of note, but if you ask any local, another great symbol that signifies the Emerald City is the giant pink elephant sign at the Elephant Car Wash on Battery Street at Denny Way. The car wash’s large sign is neon pink, rotating, and showcases a huge, happy pink elephant, hosing itself off with its trunk. It is so well known in the area that it has appeared throughout pop culture in movies, music videos, and ads and has even attracted visits from many celebrities. In fact, some claim this quirky car wash sign is the most photographed landmark in Seattle! Elephant Car Washes, originally founded by brothers Eldon, Dean, and Archie Anderson, have been the place to give your car a bath since 1951.

But did you know…while other Elephant Car Washes are still conducting business around the area, sadly the iconic Battery Street location has had to close in the past year?  Luckily, these novel signs will get new life. The larger sign is set to relocate to the Museum of History & Industry, while the smaller elephant sign will be refurbed and installed at a public plaza a couple of blocks away from the original location. So the sweet, pillbox-attired elephant will live on!

You know what else…Wonder why did the founders choose an elephant theme? Because it is said that brother and co-founder, Archie, thought an elephant would be a perfect mascot because its anatomy includes its own functional water hose. Trunk-tastic!

The Giant Shoe Museum

Alaina Weimer

There are not many books quite as fascinating to a kid as The Guinness Book Of World Records. Pouring over unbelievable facts is a quintessential part of being a curious kid. Luckily for our community, Seattle has its very own Ripley’s-esque museum hidden in the depths of Pike Place Market. It’s the Giant Shoe Museum. Located in the Down Under level of the Market, this quaint museum-like display takes up a portion of the Old Seattle Paperworks store. This entertaining array of truly enormous footgear showcases part of a collection by Danny Eskenazi, who became a large-shoe connoisseur after his grandfather had once owned a shoe (that still remains at large) worn by the tallest person in recorded history, Robert Wadlow. 

But did you know…for only a few quarters (50 cents!), you can show your family the whole collection of the world’s largest giant shoes? Various gargantuan styles are represented, such as hi-tops, boots, and old-timey shoes, including another size 37 brogue shoe worn by Robert Wadlow. So unusual and fun, you won’t want to miss this toe-tally awesome little gem.

You know what else…A reward of $1000 still stands if you can locate that original Robert Wadlow wingtip shoe that inspired Danny’s collection! 

The Ballard Locks

The Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, locally known as the Ballard Locks, is a really interesting piece of Seattle history. As many city dwellers know, it is located between Seattle’s popular Ballard and Magnolia neighborhoods, and is used to carry boat traffic (traditionally logging and fishing vessels) from Puget Sound into Salmon Bay, then on into Lake Union and Lake Washington. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, sees more than a million curious visitors every year, and has more boat traffic than any other locks in the U.S.!

But did you know…that the construction of the Locks changed the whole typography of the area by lowering the water level of both Lake Union and Lake Washington by over 8 feet?  That actually added many miles' worth of waterfront land, but it also rerouted and reversed the flow of the rivers, left some piers in Salmon Bay out of the water, and disrupted the original salmon runs. Due to this, a salmon ladder at the Locks was reintroduced in 1976 to help the salmon out. You can watch the salmon in the Locks’ 21-step fish ladder from July to mid-August at peak spawning time.

You know what else…the U.S. Navy originally planned to build a shipyard in this canal between Lake Washington and the Sound, but because of the delays in planning, that shipyard was instead built where it is today—across the Sound in Bremerton, Washington.

The Space Needle

Alaina Weimer

Sure, if you and your family have been up the Needle then you know a thing or two about this iconic symbol of Seattle. For instance, you might be aware that it was constructed for the 1962 World’s Fair; that its space design concept was first drawn on a napkin; and that it stands 605 feet tall.

But did you know...that if you were to ride up the elevator (which takes 43 seconds) in a snowstorm, it would look like the snow was falling up? That’s because the speed of the elevator at 10 m.p.h. is faster than the speed at which a snowflake falls at 3 m.p.h. Cool! Also, your little ones might be excited to know that if you were to walk up the Space Needle, there are exactly 848 steps in the main stairwell. Just FYI…because, you know they will ask!

You know what else...the Needle is built to withstand winds of up to 200 m.p.h. in case that question ever crossed your mind.

Mt. Rainier

As the symbol of our state and the recipient of our unending adoration, Mt. Rainier (originally called Tacoma or Tahoma) has a special place in the heart of any Seattleite. But how much do you really know about this magical mound? We know our favorite volcano stands 14,411 feet tall and that it is the highest mountain in the Cascades.

But did you know... that Mt. Rainier has 25 named glaciers, the most of any mountain in the lower 48? The biggest one is called Emmons Glacier, a 4-mile behemoth that also happens to be the largest glacier in the contiguous United States. Now that’s a big ice rink! But there is also something unique about the glaciers on Mt. Rainier we bet you didn't know. Did you know that Mt. Rainier’s ice is home to iceworms? These iceworms are the only type of worm to live their entire lives on the ice. These small creepy-crawlies are exclusively found in the glaciers of Washington, Alaska, Oregon, and British Columbia.

You know what else...Underneath the ice cap of Rainier are ice caves made from ice, rock, and steam. They are being studied for their likeness to the conditions on other planets in our solar system like Mars.

Pike Place Market

Guess what? The famous Pike Place Market wasn’t created to showcase the fish throwers or to scare the heck out of little kids with a lurching Monkfish. It actually started due to overpriced onions in the early 1900s. The price of produce had skyrocketed, so our city and residents proposed a public market, where food could be bought directly from farmers (keep it local!). So in 1907, Pike Place Market was formed and has been operating ever since. It is now the oldest operating farmer’s market in America.

But did you know... the bronze piggy bank that stands in the middle of the market is named Rachel? She weighs 550 pounds and was named after a real 750-pound pig who won the 1985 Island County Fair. What a ham!

You know what else…the Market’s famous fish tossing came about because back in the day, the fishmongers got tired of trekking out to the fish table each time a customer ordered a fish. They realized it was just easier to chuck the fish over the counter instead. Hence the “flying fish” still sailing through the air today!

Emerald City

seattle things to do, fun facts
Alaina Weimer

We all know Seattle's brilliant nickname: the Emerald City. But where did it come from? Well, the Convention and Visitor’s Bureau ran a competition to come up with a slogan for an advertising campaign. Sarah Sterling-Franklin (from California) won the contest and came up with the slogan, “Seattle, the Emerald City. Seattle is the jewel of the Northwest, the queen of the Evergreen State, the many-faceted city of space, elegance, magic and beauty." And it has stuck ever since.

But did you know... it wasn’t Seattle’s first fun moniker? Its first common nickname was actually “Queen City.” This name was given to the city in 1869 by a Portland real estate company who used it in a pamphlet saying it was the “Future Queen City of the Pacific.” That nickname stuck until 1982.

You know what else… Other Seattle nicknames include Rain City and Coffee Capital of the World (for obvious reasons!) and also Jet City, due to Boeing’s proximity!

Sunglasses

We all know how Seattle gets a lot of drizzly and overcast days. There's no disputing that.

But did you know... the people in Seattle buy the most sunglasses per capita, more than any other U.S. city? It sounds strange, but some of the reasons that contribute to this phenomenon include the need for protection against sun glare off wet roads; the unique PNW lighting that causes brightness even when it's overcast; our preference for outside and water activities that might require eye protection; and the fact we may forget our sunglasses when we leave the house, so we are left to purchase another pair. Something to think about stashing in that stroller when taking Junior out for a walk.

You know what else… Seattle has about 71 total sunny days a year, meaning there are only just over 70 days annually where the cloud coverage is 30 percent and under.

Fremont Troll

Alaina Weimer

Did you know that Seattle has a big ole troll living under one of its bridges? In the community of Fremont, located under the Aurora Bridge on N. 36th Street and Troll Avenue N., is an 18-foot-tall, 30-year-old concrete troll just lying in wait to meet your acquaintance.

But did you know...Fremont's famous troll was born thanks to a 1990 art competition intended to revamp the area under the bridge. Artist Steve Badanes led the team that made this Billy Goat’s Gruff-inspired sculpture into a local masterpiece. If you can find the troll, look under his hand. He is doing more than just lurking. He is crushing a Volkswagen Beetle under his grasp. So many quirky things to love about this guy. Also, check out his uncovered eye. It’s made of metal and shiny. So delightfully sinister!

You know what else… that shiny metal eye of his is more than actually meets the eye. It’s made up of a Volkswagen Beetle hubcap!

Floating Bridges

Have you driven on a floating bridge? If you have ever piled the kids in the car and gone from Medina to Seattle, then you have. The bridge that connects these two areas and runs across Lake Washington is actually called the Governor Albert D. Rosellini Bridge at Evergreen Point. It’s not the only one of its kind in this area, either. When you travel on the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge on I-90 from Seattle to Mercer Island, that bridge floats too.

But did you know...that if you drive either of these floating expanses you will be on the world’s first and second longest floating bridges (one of which actually sank during reconstruction in 1990, eek!)? Who knew? Now that is something we know your kiddos will flip over!

You know what else…The real reason behind these unique bridges over Lake Washington is that the lake is deep and the lake bed is way too soft to support a conventional bridge. That's why ours need to float!

Seattle Underground

Kate Loweth

Any local should know that Seattle was rebuilt on top of a city that was destroyed by the Great Seattle Fire of 1889. But if you have yet to hear this story, you're in for an unusual ride. This city-built-on-a-city gives birth to the very famous Seattle Underground, a network of underground passageways and basements in Pioneer Square that used to be at ground level before the fire. Instead of revamping the city where it originally was, the streets were regraded and elevated one to two stories higher (about 22 feet). That means Seattle sits right on top of the old city. The businesses underneath eventually fell into disuse, but certain sections have now become a major tourist attraction. You can still walk over some of the pavement lights that were used to light up the underground sidewalks below.

But did you know... one of the reasons for building the streets higher up was that it kept the sewers that drained into Elliot Bay from backing up at high tide? Thankfully, because of this, our ‘new’ Seattle is far less stinky than it could have been!

You know what else… The Great Seattle Fire that destroyed the original city all started when a cabinetmaker forgot about glue he was heating up over a fire. When it boiled over, it caught fire, started spreading rapidly (because of turpentine on the floor), and soon ignited the whole block.

Duwamps

If you ask a local they'll tell you Seattle is named after Chief Sealth, a leading figure of the Suquamish and Duwamish. And they wouldn't be wrong.

But did you know... Seattle was first known as Duwamps? Say what now? It’s true. A group of travelers known as the Denny Party came to claim land on what is now Alki Point (formerly and funnily named New York Alki). After a hard winter, most of the Denny Party relocated across Elliot Bay to claim more land at the site of present-day Pioneer Square, which they promptly named Duwamps. After these two settlements competed for dominance, New York Alki was eventually abandoned and everyone moved across the bay. After that, Duwamps' name was changed to “Seattle” to honor the very accommodating and welcoming Chief Sealth of the Duwamish and Suquamish tribes.

You know what else… The name “Seattle” was used in print for the very first time in 1852.

Seattle's Geography

Seattle Municipal Archives

Every Seattleite knows how hilly it can be (clutch drivers beware!). All these hills in our community are a result of glaciation. Glaciers moving south first dug out our terrain, but when they receded, huge mounds of rock debris were left in their path. These rock hills are thought to be what is now First Hill, Yesler Terrace, Cherry Hill, Denny Regrade, Capitol Hill, Queen Anne Hill, and Beacon Hill.

But did you know... that Denny Regrade was originally a big hill, too? This particular hill was removed and regraded in the years between 1898 and 1930. Regrading started on First Avenue in 1897 and 1899. Then years later, the hill was sluiced right into Elliot Bay. The last pieces of the left-over hill were finally removed by steam shovels in 1929 and 1930.

You know what else… some of the earth dug up from these regrades was used to build Harbor Island out in Elliot Bay. It was once considered the largest human-made island in the world.

 

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11 Women Who Changed NYC Forever

by Mimi O'Connor

A few things we’d be missing without them: Grand Central, Washington Square Park, and dozens of masterpieces in our major museums

International Women’s Day is March 8, and of course, we celebrate women’s history all month long. So, we’re taking some time to recognize some of the women who have had an incredible impact on our home, New York City. These incredible New Yorkers have blazed trails, saved buildings and neighborhoods, crashed through all kinds of ceilings and often made the country (even the world!) a better place. (Because when New Yorkers have an impact, it tends to be far-reaching.) Read on for our list of women who changed NYC forever.

Emily Warren Roebling

Public Domain

That famous bridge in Brooklyn? It wouldn't have happened without this lady. Married to Washington Roebling, the chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge, Emily took over when he fell ill and could no longer supervise the project. (Apparently he watched its progress from the couple's home in Brooklyn Height via telescope.) Roebling was one of the first people to cross the bridge when it was done, which she did from the Brooklyn side, holding a rooster as a symbol of victory. You can find a plaque at the base of the bridge celebrating her leadership and contribution. 

 

Shirley Chisholm

Creative Commons

Brooklyn-born Shirley Chisholm was a trailblazer not just for New Yorkers, but for women and Black people around the country. An outspoken advocate for racial justice and women's rights, as a New York State Representative in 1968, she was the first African American woman in Congress, and later co-founded of the National Women's Political Caucus in 1971. In 1972, she sought the Democratic nomination for the office of President of the United States, becoming the first woman or Black person to do so for one of the two major political parties. In 1977, she became the first Black woman and second woman ever to serve on the powerful House Rules Committee. 

Margaret Sanger

Library of Congress

Founder of the birth control movement, Margaret Sanger was a nurse who spent her entire career working to give women access to reproductive health information and contraception. Publisher of a feminist magazine and worker's rights advocate, she opened the first birth control clinic in 1916 in Brownsville, Brooklyn. In 1923 she opened a clinic staffed by women doctors and social workers, which went on to become the Planned Parenthood Federation of America.  

 

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Public Domain

While of course Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis was known the world over as widow of John F. Kennedy, she became a New Yorker following his death and spent the rest of her life here. She is widely recognized as being a key force in saving Grand Central Terminal, which was slated to meet the same fate of the demolished Penn Station. As part of the Municipal Arts Society's "Committee to Save Grand Central Terminal" she was a vocal advocate for its preservation. The Committee's victory and its related Supreme Court decision, the New York City Landmark Law resulted in the protection of thousands of other historic buildings throughout the city.  

Billie Holiday

Library of Congress

Born in Philadelphia and landing in New York City by way of Baltimore, Billie Holiday had no formal vocal training, but went on to become one of the most celebrated jazz singers in the world. She worked with bandleaders Count Basie and Artie Shaw, and collaborated frequently with saxophonist Lester Young, a partnership that produced some of the duo's finest work. Holiday helped integrate the nightclub community in the city in the 40s and 50 and around the country, and her style and voice had a profound effect on night life.

Jane Jacobs

Public Domain

Activist and urbanist Jane Jacobs' influence on New York was, and continues to be, profound. Author of the now-seminal urban planning text The Death and Life of Great American Cities, she famously went head-to-head with New York official Robert Moses to combat his program of "urban renewal." A resident of Greenwich Village, she is credited with helping to preserve its character and was a fierce advocate for quality of life and community-building in cities. She was instrumental in preventing the construction of the Lower Manhattan Expressway, which would have run through several downtown neighborhoods, radically changing them.  

Sonia Sotomayor

United States Government

Like her fellow Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sonia Sotomayor was born in New York City (she's from the Bronx, Ginsburg hails from Brooklyn). And while Ginsburg did do some work in NYC (she taught at Columbia), Sotomayor spent the bulk of her career prior to joining the Supreme court working in The Big Apple. Under the city's District Attorney Robert Morgenthau, she prosecuted cases for crimes such as robbery, assault, murder and police brutality. Later in her career, she served as a U.S. District Court judge for the Southern District of New York City, and helped educate the next generation of legal practitioners as a professor at New York University and Columbia Law School. After serving on the U.S. Second Circuit Court of Appeals, Barack Obama appointed her to the Supreme Court, where of course she wields incredible influence on not just the people of New York City, but the entire country. She has played a key role in upholding the Affordable Care Act and same-sex marriage in the United States. 

Edith Wharton

Wikimedia Creative Commons

Born into a life of privilege, Edith Wharton used her gift as a writer to chronicle and critique the world of high society in New York. In 1921, she became the first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, for Age of Innocence. She was subsequently nominated for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1927, 1928 and 1930. Other works of Wharton's include House of Mirth and Ethan Frome.

Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney

Public Domain

Born into the wealthy Vanderbilt family in 1875, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney was a sculptor and art collector. She became a champion of contemporary American artists, and when the Metropolitan Museum of Art refused her donation of her considerable collection of American work, she established the Whitney Museum of American Art in 1930. She was the leading patron of American art at the time of her death in 1942, and her personal collection of more than 600 works remains the core of the celebrated museum's holdings. Currently, the influential Whitney Museum of Art is home to more than 24,000 works by over 3,500 and is a major force in the art world internationally. 

Gloria Steinem

LBJLibrary

Activist and journalist Gloria Steinem has been a leading voice in the women's movement for more than 50 years. She co-founded New York magazine, as well as, in 1972, the trailblazing Ms. magazine, where she was an editor and writer for 15 years. She has been a leading voice for women's issues and rights including reproductive health and gender equality. 

 

Dorothy Parker

Wikimedia

Dorothy Parker was one of the founding members of the Algonquin Roundtable, a group of writers, critics an intellectuals known for their keen observations and sharp wit—Parker, especially. A writer for the New Yorker, Vanity Fair and other publications, she penned fiction, poems, plays and more. Her wry, sometimes brutal takes on modern life exemplify an certain New York sensibility, and her influence is felt to this day. 

 

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