With so many spas and nail salons in NYC, it’s no wonder we’ve got nail salons and spas just for kids in town. (As well as grownup salons that will cater to your mini-me.) Perfect for a mommy & me outing just because, or a fabulous spa birthday party, these businesses are very serious about pampering to the max. Some are explosions of pink, others are more subdued and sophisticated—all will leave everyone feeling fab. Here are our top picks for the best kids spas in NYC!

For Mobile Manis & Pedis

Pink Princess Nails

Pink Princess Nails will bring the spa to you in the form of these chic teepees. A six-hour rental for eight kids is $450, and is available anywhere in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester County/White Plains, New York. Pink Princess Nails also has a Mobile Spa Party option for the same rate, if you prefer a non-teepee option. 

Online: pinkprincessnails.com

For the Cool, Co-ed Birthday Party: Milk and Cookies Kids Spa and Salon

Milk & Cookies Salon & Spa

Described as the place where “fun, beauty, and delicious meet” Milk and Cookies Kids Spa is true to its slogan. This Upper East side spot offers great spa services that will inspire your kids to both look and feel great. (With milk and cookies at the end of each service, how could they not!) Milk and Cookies Spa provides amazing birthday packages for both boys and girls, and includes cookies, milk, ice cream and even party favor gift bags for each guest. With services like Yummy facials, Make your own lip gloss, and Slimy booger manicures, your kids will have a blast with their friends and snap some great photos.

Milk & Cookies Kids Spa and Salon
1196 First Avenue (Between 64th & 65th st.)
Upper East Side
646-850-4032
Online: milkandcookieskidsspa.com

photo: Rachel Sokol 

For a Sweet Spot in Queens: Lollipop Spa
Located in the heart of Queens, Lollipop Spa is just as cute as it sounds. Whimsy with touches of Hello Kitty décor, the inside is cozy, inviting, and, of course, pink. There are 3 party packages available, ranging in price from $409 to $529. Or, just book an appointment anytime for your little princess. Solo, non-party appointments for kids are $25 and include: Mani & Pedi, Glitter Eye Makeup, Pink Robe, and a special, shiny surprise. Every girl needs a pop of pink, and a dash of glitter in their life—why not pamper them at Lollipop?

65-23 Grand Avenue
Maspeth, NY
718-326-0033
Online: Lollipopspa.com

 

photo: Emer D. via Yelp

For the Sweetest Spot in Greenpoint: Cotton Candy Spa
Visiting this adorable venue would make even storybook character Pinkalicious squeal with delight. Of course, the whole place is decorated in shades in pink with a classic black-and-white checkered floor. A variety of spa packages are available for the birthday Diva and their guests, ranging in price from $439 (Pink Package) to Gold Package ($529), plus sales tax. Each birthday party is two hours and include mani/peds with glitter designs, use of pink robes, soothing facial, makeup application, cupcakes, pizza, and more. Add-ons include glitter tattoos, hair extensions, tween magazines, and the chance to make a personalized perfume, depending on the birthday package. Packages are for 9 guests; $25 per each additional child. All spa packages are recommended for kids ages 4 to 12, and at every party refreshments are available for the adults, too.

587 Humboldt St.
Greenpoint
718-388-8197
Online: CottonCandySpa.com

photo: Pink Lemon Park Facebook page 

For the Young, Native Manhattanite: Pink Lemon Park 
Known for being one of the most sanitary salons in Manhattan—especially because they don’t use whirlpool footbaths, super sanitize all their nail equipment, and every customer gets their own buffer and nail file—Pink Lemon Park offers glam salon services for kids. Kids can indulge themselves in: Little Princess Manicure (8-and-under) $10, Tween Princess Manicure $15, Little Princess Pedicure $20, Tween Princess Pedicure (9-12 years) $35. Party packages include Little Princess Children’s Package (manicure + pedicure + cupcake/drink) and Tween Princess Package (manicure + pedicure + cupcake/drink). Call for pricing info on spa party packages. (Hair & makeup services available upon request, as an add-on.)

1335 Madison Ave.
Upper East Side
212-348-8890
Online: pinklemonpark.com

1341 Second Ave.
Upper East Side
212-570-0770

spa party nyc
Renee S. via Yelp

For the At-home, Spa Birthday Party: Ritzy Glitzy Girlz Club
Think pink! Turn your home into a spa fit for a diva with Ritzy Glitzy Girlz Club’s fun, glamorous party packages. Their team will come to you fully prepared to get the party started with whatever package you choose. With services like cooling peppermint facials and sparkling manicures and pedicures, your children and their guests will be sure to enjoy a party that’s nothing short of fabulous, all in the comfort of your own home. If you’d prefer, all packages are also offered on-location at Ritzy Glitzy’s Pink Boutique.

Ritzy Glitzy Girlz Club
245 Jericho Turnpike
New Hyde Park
516-327-4526
Online: ritzyglitzygirlzclub.com

 

photo: Just 4 Kids Salon & Birthday Party Boutique via Yelp

For a Spa Party with a Theme: Just 4 Kids
With fourteen different themed birthday parties ranging from ‘Alice in Wonderland’ to ‘Munster Madness’, this popular Hoboken spa for children has got you covered for a maxed out themed spa party. With party themes for girls, boys and co-ed gatherings, Just 4 Kids  takes themes to the next level and customizes services accordingly. Each party includes a professional coordinator and hostess, fun take-homes, and a special gift for the birthday boy or girl.

720 Monroe St., Suite E-313
Hoboken, NJ
201-653-5887
Online: just4kidssalon.com

For the Luxurious Family-Outing Spa birthday party: Allure Day Spa

Allure Day Spa via Yelp

Midtown's Allure Day Spa has lots of options for parties, including Spa for Boys ($120 per person), the Pampered Princess package (mani/pedi and facial, for $95 per person), Family Day (a personalized experience for the whole clan). They'll even bring the spa to you, setting up treatment chairs and tables at your home and providing everything from mani/pedis, to braids, up-dos, facials and more. Treatments come with a robe and slippers to wear, and chocolate and sparkling cider!

Allure Day Spa
139 E. 55th St.
Midtown
212-644-5500
www.alluredayspa.com

For Spa AND Sports: Artistic Stitch

Artistic Stitch Sports Complex

This popular sports complex in Glendale, Queens also happens have a perfectly pink deluxe spa party room for birthday kids wanting to be pampered—with manis and pedis, crystal tiaras, spa robes, scented towels, glitter hairspray and more. But what we especially love about Artistic Stitch spa parties is that you can combine the primping with some sporty fun, too! (See a combo party in action, here.) Basic spa packages start at $695 for an hour and 45 minutes of fun for seven kids, with the birthday person free. You also get pizza, paper goods and invitations. More deluxe packages for larger groups (there are many, going up to $3,095 include a dance party element and DJ, robes to keep, ice cream cake, popcorn and candy and other add-ons to choose from. 

7908- Cooper Ave.
Glendale, Queens 
718-416-1380
Online: artisticstitchsportscomplex.com

For Serious Party Packages: Fresh As a Daisy Kids

Tia C. via Yelp

This Canarsie, Brooklyn spot offers services for kids ages three to 14, and will throw a bash that will make your birthday child (and guests) feel totally fab. Guests settle in to pink chairs and fluffy robes for Orbeez manicures, flavored pedicures, an edible facial, and then take to the "pink carpet shoot." Cake, decor, and kid-friendly music is included, and add-ons range from glitter tattoos and makeup application to a keepsake tiara crown for the guest of honor. Minimum of five guests; call for rates. (FYI: they'll also come to your house as a mobile spa!)

Fresh As A Daisy Spa
9305 Glenwood Rd. 
Canarsie
917-650-9402
Online: freshasdaisy.com

photo: via Dashing Diva Greenpoint Facebook page

For a Location (Probably) Near You: Dashing Diva
The positively pink nail salon chain is happy to accommodate a group of tiny divas. For guests 10 years old and younger, manicures and pedicures are $15 and $25, respectively. Call in advance to book and inquire about maximum number of guests; a 50 percent deposit is required to book. Note: It’s likely you won’t be able to bring food into the salon, so plan to cake it somewhere else.

Dashing Diva
Locations throughout the New York Area
Online: dashingdiva.com

—Ilyssa Smith & Rachel Sokol

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Outdoor Birthday Party Ideas for NYC Kids

Having a winter baby means finding an indoor birthday party spot, especially considering Boston’s chilly climate. While you can definitely go the bouncy house route, sometimes it’s fun to branch out and find a venue with a personality that matches your kiddo’s. Whether yours loves to play, game, cook or create, we’ve got an indoor birthday party place to match. Here’s where to plan your next celebration.

Where to Celebrate with Little Kids

Boston Playground

It’s everyone’s favorite indoor playground, so it only makes sense it’s a popular indoor party spot too. Hosting a birthday here is super simple, whether you plan a simple private playdate, or bump it up a notch and make it a private party for just $50 more. If you take the plunge, you’ll get access to the private party room, plus an additional 30 minutes of play. Prices start at $175 and can accommodate up to 40 guests. You bring the décor, food and cake and let the folk at Boston Playground handle the plates, napkins and cutlery.

Good to know: If the playground doesn’t entice your kids, maybe a Nerf Wars or Archery Games party will. They’re great for older kids and are offered at the same location.

121 Webster Ave., #103
Chelsea, MA
617-466-0142
Online: bostonplayground.com

Golden Chickpea Center

This colorful playspace and school in Brookline is a mecca for toddlers. It’s got everything the need to have a good time including games, toys and costumes. When you book at birthday party here, you’ll have access to the whole space during the 2.5-hour party. BYO food and cake, they provide the tableware and cutlery. The price is $400, or you can email about custom arts and crafts party options.

224 Washington St.
Brookline, MA
857-210-9122
Online: thegoldenchickpea.com/birthday

Boston Children’s Museum

Because it doesn’t get easier than planning a kids’ party at a museum dedicated to play, booking this bash is a no-brainer. Partygoers can enjoy cake, ice cream and a fun celebration in the dedicated party room after exploring over three floors of educational fun and festivities. Parents will love the dedicated party coordinator who’s there to help set up and clean up. Parties start at $600 for up to 25 guests, and they’re booked in 3-hour blocks on the weekends. As this is a popular party spot, we recommend booking at least 2 months in advance to get the weekend you want.

308 Congress St.
Boston, MA
617-426-6500
Online: bostonchildrensmuseum.org

Room to Bloom

North of the city is where you’ll find this indoor playground that caters to kids under six. Like many of Boston’s playspaces, this one has everything you need to keep kids active for the whole two-hour party session. They’ve got swings and slides, kitchens and markets, trampolines and climbing arches to make kiddo’s imaginations take flight. Parties range from $200-$300 and can include up to 46 people. We love the add-ons, like custom party themes and special craft projects. Food is BYO, or hit up the food truck across the street. Just remember, this is a nut-free facility.

81 Bridge St., Unit B
Beverly, MA
978-969-0359
Online: roomtobloombeverly.com/birthday

Little Loveage Club

If you’re looking for a wide open space for toddlers to party and play, it doesn’t get easier that the Little Loveage Club downtown. For $900, families get the 5,000 square feet to spread out in, and all the toys babies and toddlers love. Parties are booked on Friday evenings and the weekends in three-hour slots, and there’s seating for up to 16 youngsters, with a 60 person maximum so parents can stay to enjoy the day.

Prudential Center
800 Boylston St.
Boston, MA
Online: littlelovageclub.com

Great Party Spots for Big Kids

kids birthday party places Boston

Sugar Plum Parties

When it comes to magical parties, Sugar Plum Parties tops the list. Their decked out space includes gorgeous tables, a stage where kids can perform, dress up costumes and hair and nail styles so every partygoer can look their best. There are two ways to party here—by hosting a personal play date for two to three kids ($125-$150) or by going all in on a party package (starting at $430). Parties are for 5-10 guests and it’s where parents will get the most bang for their buck including invitations, DIY favors, themed tables, a fruit and pastry tray, and most importantly a Sugar Plum Fairy helper. We love the storybook character meet-and-greets that are an easy package add-on.

306 Boston Rd., Unit K
Billerica, MA
781-438-8488
Online: sugarplumpartiesbillerica.com

The Glass Bar

If art and pizza sound like your kid, book a party at The Glass Bar in Needham. With two party options, you’ve got choices. Kids six and up will decorate a mosaic tile before noshing on pizza and cake. Kids nine and up can try their hand at glass fusion first; then it’s time to celebrate. Parties are for up to 16 kids and it’s a parent drop-off dream (only hosts are allowed to stay).

60 Dedham Ave., Ste. 102
Needham, MA
781-444-2909
Online: theglassbarboston.com

Create a Cook

Whip up fun at this party spot for budding chefs ages five and up. Along with 7 of their friends, the birthday kid can cook two to three dishes and decorate cupcakes alongside Create a Cook’s experienced staff. You choose from cool cooking themes (think: Asian wraps, Mexican, cupcake wars and more), and everything is taken care of, down to the aprons little chefs use. The package costs $550 and party favor bags can be added for $15 each.

53 Winchester St.
Newton Highlands, MA
617-795-2223
Online: createacook.com

Empow Studios

If you’ve got a tween, chances are they can’t get enough gaming. Let your celebration center around this passion at Empow Studios, where kids can choose from five different party themes (Minecraft, LEGO robot, video game design, animation or music production) and two different party packages that range in price from $350 to $545. Each package is good for up to 10 kids and includes 90 minutes of gaming activity and 30 minutes to celebrate the birthday kiddo. It’s a trendy spot to plan a party for a reason—it’s easy for parents and the kids love it.

1776 Massachusetts Ave.
Lexington, MA
Online: empow.me

 

First grade teacher, LaToya Smith McGriff is making waves with her students. The Suffolk, Virginia teacher decided to teach her students about Black History Month with a trip back in time.

McGriff tells Red Tricycle, “I dressed up as different African American historical figures to show students that people who look like them made and continue to make contributions to the world. It was a learning experience for my students, colleagues, and myself.”

Throughout all of February, McGriff arrived to school dressed as a famous African-American who made remarkable contributions to America. Starting Feb. 3, the first grade teacher kicked off her Black History unit by dressing as Mary Jackson, one of the “human computers” depicted in the film, Hidden Figures.

McGriff ran the gauntlet, also dressing up to represent Ella Fitzgerald, Arthur Ashe, Mack Benn Jr., Colonel Fred Cherry and Henriette Lacks, to name a few.

Inspired by another teacher who dressed up as a storybook character, McGriff put her own spin to help her students connect with Black History Month. While she ended up choosing a lot of trailblazers from her home state of Virginia, the teacher showed just how important each and every one was to the progression of our entire country.

––Karly Wood

 

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Remember in the “olden days” when we all had our birthday parties at home? Games, cupcakes and balloons and you had a party. Today, many parents choose to host their child’s party outside the home because the thought of entertaining all of those kids doesn’t sound particularly fun. But hosting a party at your house doesn’t have to be a ton of work for you. There are tons of Bay Area businesses that will bring the party to you—all you have to do is open your door and let the fun in!

Kona Ice

Kelly J. via yelp

Bring a taste of the tropics to your next birthday party by inviting the Kona Ice truck. The truck drives up playing festive music to summon the kids. Party-goers line up for a scoop of shaved ice and then they step up to the self-serve flavor bar to choose from grape, lime, watermelon, and strawberry flavored syrups to add to their ice. Cool and refreshing fun for a summer day (or pretty much any day in the Bay Area).

Cost: parties start at $149
Location: trucks are available throughout the Bay Area. Search online by zip code for the closest truck.
Online: kona-ice.com

Game Action

Kate Loweth

Little gamers step right up as the Game Action truck is pulling into your driveway! This mobile gaming unit provides an indoor environment where up to 16 kids can sit and play Minecraft, Mario Kart and all the top games on 50 inch HDTVs. Outside two additional HDTVs are available for games like Just Dance. The truck is air conditioned and all games will be age-appropriate for the guests. All you have to do is provide the location for the truck and your party is ready to go.

Cost: $295-$335 for two hours, $99 for each additional hour
Location: serves East Bay, South Bay and Peninsula
Online: thegameaction.com

The Happy Birds

Erika Y. via yelp

Never seen a parrot riding a bike? Well you are in for a real treat if you invite The Happy Birds to your next soiree. These amazing avians can talk, sing, ride a scooter and even cry like a baby. Your guests will be impressed with their human-like antics and will especially enjoy the audience participation elements of the show. After the fun is done, pose for pictures with a friendly macaw or cockatoo.

Cost: $335-385
Location: serves the South Bay and Peninsula with additional fees for travel outside of that area
Online: happybirds.com

The Gymnastics Bus

Isaac N. via yelp

Looking for a birthday option for your little one who just likes to run, jump and climb? Bring the Gymnastics Bus to your house (or a local park) and get ready for some physical fun. The bus provides 90 minutes of fun for up to 20 kids ages 3-6. Swing across the monkey bars, balance on the balance beam and jump into the foam pit. There's even a kiddie zip line.

Cost: Parties start at $185 for the first 10 participants
Location: Marin County
Online: thegymnasticsbus.com

ZooMobile Birthdays from the Oakland Zoo

Bring the Zoo to you! Make your child's next birthday a memorable one with a Birthday Party ZooMobile. Perfect for a small family gathering in your home. The birthday child (ages four and older) and their friends will meet four small animals, most of which can be touched. The birthday child will receive a Zoo gift to mark the occasion. Program for up to 30 people lasts 50 minutes.

Cost: $300 for members, $320/non-members
Online: oaklandzoo.org

The Cinderella Company

Lucy C. via yelp

Invite your favorite storybook character over for an afternoon of fun with The Cinderella Company. Sleeping Beauty, The Little Mermaid and Princess Elsa all come to life when these character arrive to celebrate your little one's birthday. Parties include stories, singing, magic and more. They even have pirates, superheroes and Star Wars characters that can join in the fun.

Cost: $199 and up
Location: performers are available all over the Bay Area
Online: thecinderellacompany.com

For Goodness Snakes

Kate Loweth

Cozy up with some amazing critters at this one-of-a-kind birthday party for little reptile lovers. For Goodness Snakes brings all of the animals to you. Learn fascinating facts about these cold-blooded creatures and have hands-on experience holding them in this 90 minute program that's perfect for kids of all ages. You may even get to meet Big Mamma—the 40 pound boa constrictor.

Cost: parties start at $300
Location: will travel all over the Bay Area. Price varies based on distance from Campbell.
Online: for-goodness-snakes.com

Mad Science

Alison W. via yelp

If making things explode sounds like a perfect birthday party, then have Mad Science come to your next shin dig. Party kids will learn about electricity and magnetism, find out why glow sticks glow and more in these fun science experiments that you don't have to clean up. Everyone gets to make a fun favor to take home like slime or bouncy balls.

Cost: $195 and up
Location: serves the Bay Area, travel fee may apply
Online: thebayarea.madscience.org

Bri Crabtree's Silly Circus and Fairy Parties

Bri Crabtree

Join Bri Crabtree on a silly circus adventure.  Bri is an award-winning variety entertainer and will have the audience captivated with her fusion of circus, vaudeville and silliness. The show features juggling, magic, illusion and physical comedy. Or, choose to have Bri turn your whole crew into fairies. All party packages include the 30 minute show and classic activities such as face painting and balloon animals. 

Online: britree.com

Cooking Round the World

Cooking Round the World

Bring the culinary adventures to your next birthday party with Cooking Round the World. Choose from Italy, France, Belgium, Israel or Mexico for your theme. Kids will make food from the chosen country like meatballs and waffles from Belgium and play a game from that country. Parties last 2 hours and include all paper goods, ingredients and a culinary professional to run the show.

Cost: $400 and up
Location: East Bay
Online: cookingroundtheworld.com

—Kate Loweth

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Now that summer is trickling to an end, your stuffed bears could be feeling the winter chill. Or that’s just what your kiddo says as she bundles Teddy up in pajamas, a dress or a superhero costume. Scroll down for 10 awesome outfits that’ll delight your cutie pie and his or her snuggle buddy. Ready for a photoshoot?

Teddys in Pajamas
Jumpsuits, onesies, whatever tiny article of one-piece clothing that won’t fit your babe anymore could be their teddy’s new sleepwear.

photo: Ralph Daily via flickr

Operation: Patient Teddy
Play a little game of stitch-me-up as you and your kiddo patches Teddy back to together. All they need are a few band-aids and a hygiene mask for a fun hospital role play.

photo: Christiaan Triebert via flickr

Princess Teddy
Dress your furry playmate as the royal they are born to be. Whether its a tiara or a crochet hat, your teddy royalty will be ready for a tea party in a fancy outfit that rivals the Queen’s.

photo: Aurimas via flickr

Superhero Sidekick
Spiderman, Superman, Batman, Captain America – all these famous superheroes wouldn’t be where they are now without their trusty sidekick. Transform your kid’s teddy bear into their favorite hero’s best friend and watch them take on the world!

photo: Popculture Geek via flickr

Everyday Teddy
If your Teddy and your babe can share clothes, let them! Some of our favorite costumes for teddy bears are the clothes we’ve seen on our little ones. Pretty soon your kiddo will grow out of them, but teddy never will.

photo: Anna via flickr

Star Wars Teddy
Any costume list would seem incomplete without a Star Wars outfit. This Darth Vader bear is a popular costume at Build-A-Bear, but you could also probably dress up your furry friend in a robe to look like a Jedi.

photo: Alex & Rachel Johnson via flickr

Occupation: Teddy
We’re not sure if this outfit is a school boy, post man or old school police officer, but the matching components, from the hat to the pants, are beyond cute. Our favorite feature? The name tag that reads “Teddy.”

photo: longzijun via flickr

Sweater Weather Teddy
Nothing screams fall like sweater weather. This simple outfit is absolutely adorable and your kid won’t have to worry about their fluffy buddy getting cold.

photo: longzijun via flickr

Autopilot Teddy
Put your teddy in aviation gear and take photos of them soaring above everyone.

photo: Crowcombe Al via flickr

Tinkerbell Teddy
Even teddies can role play as their favorite cartoon or storybook character. Dress up as a fairy, like the Tinkerbell panda below, or as Mickey Mouse. The possibilities are endless.

photo: Loren Javier via flickr

How does your kiddo dress up their teddy bear? Send us a picture to greatideas@tinybeans.go-vip.net and we’ll share them with our readers on social media!

— Christal Yuen