The home of the French-American School, Larchmont has a considerable population of French immigrants, so don’t be surprised if you overhear French conversations. Take advantage of the various French eateries—they’re the real deal. Beyond French cuisine, Larchmont has lots of quality restaurants and bakeries, including a variety of international cuisine. While downtown Larchmont experienced a spate of business closings several years back, the void has been filled, in part, by the arrival of children’s indoor play spaces, which supplement the drop-in art-making spots.

Whether you’re fortunate enough to live in Larchmont or just visiting, there are plenty of great kid-friendly destinations. Read on for our favorite family restaurants, shops, parks, and more!

Parks, Playgrounds, and Recreation for Kids in Larchmont

1. Take a stroll

The pristine Larchmont Manor Park is one of Westchester’s hidden gems. While there’s no playground or food allowed, its path along the Sound affords lovely views for a low-key stroll or dog walk. Bring a blanket on July Fourth to catch the local fireworks show.

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Kids can their groove on at Groove. Photo courtesy of the event

2. Get into the Groove

Rock out at Groove, which offers “Mommy & me”-style group music classes for babies through preschoolers. Drop-in events are frequent.

3. Pop in and Play

Explore and frolic among the various interactive stations of Pop-In! Play Space & Café.

4. Discover an Excellent Library

The children’s room of the Larchmont Public Library is a standout in the county, with extensive high-quality events offered year-round (often capturing the attention of our Activities Calendar), a well-curated book selection, and a play area.

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Embrace the natural world at Sheldrake Environmental Center. Photo courtesy of the center

5. Get Back to Nature

Connect with nature on Sheldrake Environmental Center’s 60 acres or join a scheduled event. Tip-toe up to the frog pond to see who’s hanging out among the lily pads.

6. Visit the Park

Off the beaten path, Flint Park offers assorted recreational facilities, among which is a standout playground. There’s also decent sledding in winter.

7. Play in a Sandbox

The smaller Vanderburgh “Turtle" Park is closer to the heart of Larchmont’s downtown and offers a sandbox and other play equipment for little ones.

8. Tap Your Inner Artist

For impromptu messy fun, drop in for an art project at Creative Corner or Plaster Palace Pottery…

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Slime it up at D.I.Y. Slime. Photo by the author

9. Glue it Together

…or mess with glitter and glue at D.I.Y. Slime.

10. Meet the Neighbors

Opt for membership in the Larchmont Newcomers Club, which organizes social gatherings at a variety of destinations for new residents in Larchmont and the surrounding areas.

11. Go Ice Skating

Lace up for ice skating at Hommocks Ice Rink (and check Groupon for discount codes). Lessons and hockey are also offered.

12. Save our Theater

Though currently inoperative, the Larchmont Playhouse is a historic theater that’s in the process of being saved from extinction. Stay tuned for progress and, hopefully, future events for families.

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Augie's offers kid-friendly Italian specialties. Photo courtesy of the restaurant

Family-Friendly Places to Eat in Larchmont, NY

13. Dine Alfresco

Place your order at the counter at Stanz Cafe, then grab a table indoors or outside. Whether breakfast or lunch, the inventive menu offers something for all tastes.

14. Think Spaghetti 

Dine family-style at Augie's, a staple that serves sharing-sized portions of traditional Italian dishes.

15. Hang at the Lunch Counter

Or go old-school counter-style at the vintage Harbor House Coffee Shop.

16. Scream for Ice Cream

Cool off with ice cream from Longford's, where little ones especially love the Cookie Monster flavor.

17. Order South-of-the-Border Fare

Grab a taco, some guac, and quesadillas at La La Taqueria.

18.Grab a To-Go Croissant

Light meals, breakfast pastries, and the like can be enjoyed on-site or to go from Bread & Cocoa.

Family-Friendly Shopping in Larchmont, NY

19. Get Nostolgic at Ye Olde Shoppe

A mainstay since the 1940s, The Corner Store is a classic variety store offering toys, candy, gum, and other treats kids love.

20. Support a Local Bookstore

Browse books and toys (plus the section for grown-ups) at Andersons Book Shop, where events like game nights are sometimes offered.

21. Be a Fashionista

For children’s clothing, gifts, and more, Stephanie’s Kloset offers a well-curated assortment, including for tweens. Personalization is available.