A village within Westchester’s Town of Mamaroneck, lovely Larchmont is an upscale community on the Long Island Sound. There is a happening downtown and the most bustling streets for families and kids are Boston Post Road, Palmer Avenue, Chatsworth Avenue, and Larchmont Avenue.
Latest Videos
Connatix video player
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.
RELATED: 100 Things to Do with Westchester Kids Before They Grow Up
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.
RELATED: Top Playgrounds in Westchester and the Hudson Valley
mediumrectangle-inline
mediumrectangle-inline
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…
RELATED: Destination Parks for Families in Westchester
Slime it up at D.I.Y. Slime. Photo by the author
mediumrectangle-inline
mediumrectangle-inline
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.
RELATED: Great Dessert Destinations for Westchester Families
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.
mediumrectangle-inline
mediumrectangle-inline
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.
mediumrectangle-inline
mediumrectangle-inline
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.