One Day in DUMBO Brooklyn with Kids: The Perfect Family Itinerary
If you are looking for a fun way to spend a day in NYC with kids, DUMBO in Brooklyn in one of the best places to explore. With the Brooklyn Bridge, Jane’s Carousel, and plenty of playgrounds and restaurants, you can enjoy a full day in this area of Brooklyn.
We live in New York City with our toddler, and our favorite way to arrive to DUMBO is by taking the NYC ferry across the East River. We love the waterfront area, she loves to ride Jane’s Carousel, and we always take a family photo with the Brooklyn Bridge.
Here is what a typical day in DUMBO looks like for our family, and what I recommend doing with kids!
1. Take the NYC Ferry to DUMBO
The East River route serves the DUMBO/Fulton Ferry landing. You’ll need to transfer ferries at Wall Street before continuing to DUMBO.
2. Ride Jane’s Carousel
Your first stop should be Jane’s Carousel, one of the most charming places to visit in DUMBO with kids. The carousel dates back to 1922 and has 48 carved horses and two chariots.
3. Take Photos with Brooklyn Bridge
You cannot spend a day in DUMBO without taking photos with the Brooklyn Bridge in the background!
4. Let the Kids Play at the Playground
After the carousel and photos, give the little ones time to run and play at any of the nearby playgrounds. You can choose the one that works best for your children’s age.
Play 1 Playground is currently our favorite playground for our 2-year-old. For older kids, I’d recommend The Main Street Playground with a fun boat-shaped sandbox.
5. Have Lunch at Cecconi’s DUMBO or Juliana’s Pizzeria
Once everyone has worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch! For an upscale lunch, head to Cecconi’s DUMBO, or keep it casual with Juliana’s Pizzeria. These are my two favorite spots for lunch in DUMBO, depending on what kind of meal we are in the mood for.
6. Explore Time Out Market
Time Out Market is another great option when you want flexibility. With multiple food vendors under one roof, everyone can choose something they like, and the fifth-floor rooftop offers beautiful views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Manhattan Bridge and the Manhattan skyline.
7. Relax by Brooklyn Bridge Park
This area is pretty spectacular, with sculptures and freestanding installations introduced every year.
8. Finish with Ice Cream at Van Leeuwen or Coffee at Arabica
A day in DUMBO with kids will not feel complete without ice cream for everyone, or coffee for the grown ups!
The Van Leeuwen location is right by the ferry stop, making it an easy final stop after your walk through DUMBO. I personally prefer a matcha and a croissant from Arabica for a sweet ending to our day in DUMBO.
A final note!
DUMBO is very walkable, but some of the streets are cobblestone, so a stroller with larger wheels will make the day easier. What I love about this One Day in DUMBO Brooklyn Itinerary is that you don’t have to rush from one spot to the other.
My daughter’s favorite part of the day is always the carousel, playground and ice cream! And our favorite part is seeing her enjoy, and the magnificent views, of course!
It is always a good idea to wear comfortable shoes because you will walk more than you expect! These are the most comfortable white sneakers I own. See them here.
