Stores & Services

18 Things to Do With Kids in Industry City, Brooklyn

Submitted by Siobhan Adcock on Tue, 03/12/2019 - 4:00pm

Located within a former industrial storage complex along the waterfront in Sunset Park, Industry City has evolved over the past decade into something of a cultural and foodie hub. The eight formerly derelict city-block-sized buildings, running from 33rd to 37th Streets between Second and Third Avenues, are now home to artist studios, work spaces, great shopping, art exhibitions, a chocolate factory, a Brooklyn Nets training facility, an international food hall, and even a roller rink.

During the week, the courtyards and restaurants in Industry City tend to be ruled by the young workers who report to various offices and work spaces in the complex. But weekends bring an influx of shoppers, food-lovers, and young families for a unique mix of tastes, sights, art, and family programming. Hands down, it’s one of our favorite places to spend a summer weekend morning or a rainy winter afternoon. Read on for ways to make the most of a trip to Industry City with kids.

Sweet Nostalgia: NJ Shops That Sell Retro Candy

Submitted by Elaine Paoloni ... on Thu, 03/07/2019 - 2:15pm

Remember running to the corner candy store for a treat after school or on the weekend when visiting grandma or grandpa? There was nothing like selecting penny candy from the counter or searching the shelves for candy cigarettes that puffed out a cloud of sugar, oversized bright-red wax lips, and sugar ball–filled Satellite Saucers that doubled as mini maracas.

Many of the old-fashioned candy items parents and grandparents enjoyed as kids are still available today at specialty stores. The throwback treats are a great way to relive your childhood with your own children— and bond over sugar. So, if your sweets supply has dwindled in the weeks between Valentine’s Day and Easter, here are some shops offering a variety of nostalgic fun and flavors.

Spring Consignment Sales for Philly Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Sun, 03/03/2019 - 12:00am

As all parents know, children outgrow their clothes at an alarming rate. One way to avoid breaking the bank each season on a new wardrobe is by shopping consignment sales. Each spring, these weekend mommy markets pop up all over the Philadelphia area and offer families a great way to buy gently used clothes, shoes, toys, baby gear, and other items at a large discount off retail. Consignment sales are also an opportunity to sell outgrown items for some extra cash.

Westchester Play Cafes with Fun for Kids and Perks for Parents

Submitted by Marisa Iallonardo on Sun, 02/10/2019 - 9:00am

While it’s fun to take the kids to a dedicated play space—and trust us, there are lots of those to choose from in Westchester—there are times when you want to go somewhere that has something for both you (read: coffee, brownies, both) and the kids. You’re in luck: There are a few spots in our area where you can meet a friend for tea or linger over lunch with your spouse while your kids have fun—whether it’s reading a good book, drawing on a chalkboard wall, going down slides, or building with blocks and construction sets.

Looking for even more places to take the whole family? Check out our kid-friendly restaurant guide.

Mall of America's Most Amazing Attractions for Kids of All Ages

Submitted by Christine Mooney on Sat, 02/02/2019 - 3:00pm

Mall of America, located in the heart of the American Midwest in Bloomington, Minnesota, is nothing short of an indoor entertainment epicenter for kids. Sure, it has over 500 stores, but there’s way more to do than just go shopping at the country's largest mall (so big that it requires its own zip code: 55425).

From Chicago’s iconic Willis Tower to the Harley Davidson museum in Milwaukee, the Midwest is full of fun, interesting, and educational things that kids and their parents will love. Mall of America might possess a more commercial feel than some of the area's other travel destinations, but it also likely offers the most entertainment per square foot (5.4 million square feet to be exact) with some of the most popular kids' characters and brands on hand, including Lego, Nickelodeon, American Girl, and Paw Patrol. There's an indoor amusement park, aquarium, arcade, mini golf, and so much more, all within just a few minutes of the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport.

Read on to check out our list of the top 25 amazing things that kids of all ages can do at Mall of America.

14 Fun and Offbeat NYC Stores to Visit With Kids

Submitted by Jody Mercier on Tue, 01/29/2019 - 4:00pm

New York City is famous for its shopping options, and for good reason—but some stores are a cut above and worth the schlep, even with kids. If you've got a big birthday to celebrate with a gift, or just need an indoor diversion from a gloomy winter day, these retail spots are sure to put a smile on your face, whether you're just a lookie-loo or decide to splurge on a special treat. Find more local shopping ideas in our NYC Local Shopping Guide.

12 Stores That Offer Free and Low-Cost Classes for Westchester Kids

Submitted by Susan Miele on Sun, 01/20/2019 - 12:30pm

Keeping kids educated and entertained can cost a pretty penny, so we like to help our readers find ways to keep expenses from getting out of hand. That’s why we keep our eyes peeled for FREE and low-cost classes and activities for kids of all ages.

Below we’ve rounded up classes offered by local stores, which include STEM programs, crafting, fitness, and more. We’re big fans of the $0 price tag, but we’ve also included a few that allow for one-time visits up to about $30. Many stores have various locations, so be sure to check with these to confirm local schedules, offerings, and rates.

Looking for more? We’ve previously rounded up 60 FREE Places to Play, which include stores, nature centers, play spaces, and other venues. Of course, libraries are also a great resource, and many offer one-time and recurring classes in coding, 3D printing, yoga, Zumba, cooking, and more. Most importantly, keep tabs on our Event Calendar, where we curate the best local events with a heavy emphasis on FREE and inexpensive.

Consignment Shops for Kids & Teens in Bucks County

Submitted by Lori McManus on Wed, 01/16/2019 - 9:19am

With the change in season, parents are discovering that their kids' closets are overflowing with shirts that are too tight, dresses that are too short, and shoes that don't fit those little piggies anymore. Fortunately, Bucks County boasts a variety of stores where parents can turn those outgrown clothes into cash through consignment.

And if you're looking to refill the closet with new-to-you wears, the resale stores on our list also offer great bargain shopping. Most only accept high-quality, gently-used items so parents can outfit their little ones at a fraction of what you usually spend at the mall.

For more excellent deals, check out our list of spring consignment sales happening every spring and fall throughout the Philadelphia area. Don't forget to view our post featuring consignment shops in Montgomery County too!