Fresh Air Fun: Family Hikes Near NYC

by Yuliya GeikhmanOctober 10, 2021

Late fall is the perfect time to go on a hike with the kids, thanks to cooler temperatures and amazing fall foliage to take in. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes near NYC, with both easy trails and more challenging ones for more experienced or older kids. Check out our favorite day hikes near NYC, all of which are under two hours from the city. Don’t have a car? Try these urban hikes in NYC. Got a baby in tow? We love these NYC stroller-friendly hikes!

Anthony’s Nose

If you’d rather spend more time hiking than driving, you can look closer to home: Anthony’s Nose is a short hike up a section of the Appalachian Trail that ends with a view of the Bear Mountain Bridge and a scenic overview of the Hudson River. Be prepared for a bit of legwork, because Anthony has a pretty steep nose. The walk is relatively short distance of about three miles round trip, but it’s a mix of climbs and straight paths. The climbs are more like a staircase thanks to the rocky layout of the inclines, but they can be tough on beginners. If you still have time — and energy! — when you finish the hike, you and the kids can take a walk across the Bear Mountain Bridge, visit the small but free zoo, or ride a carousel. All make a perfect reward for your trek up the trail!

Location: Westchester County, across from Bear Mountain

Difficulty: Moderate to hard

Drive time from NYC: 1 hr 20 min

More info: hikethehudsonvalley.com

Arden Point and Glenclyffe

hiking trails for kids — Josh B. via Yelp

Bring a bit of history into your hike by visiting Arden Point and Glenclyffe. In this relatively easy hike, you and the kids can retrace the footsteps of Revolutionary War general Benedict Arnold as he made his escape in 1780. It's an excellent way to bring history to life for older kids who might be studying this period in American history. The trail also offers some views of the river, but if you've had enough of that there's plenty more to see, like the 1950s railroad track that is still in use today for freight, and a few historic buildings that date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Location: Garrison, NY

Difficulty: Easy to moderate

Drive time from NYC: 1 hr 25 min

More info: nynjtc.org

Palisades Interstate Park

Located under an hour's drive from the city, the NJ Palisades Park offers gorgeous views and scenic routes, as well as about 30 miles of trails of varying difficulty. This means there's a trail for any level of hiker, including small children. We recommend the State Line Lookout trails for their variety in terrain and difficulty. Taking the trails from the Lookout means getting views of the Hudson River and finding some hidden treasures like a tree swing that makes for awesome photo-ops, and the Women's Federation Monument. Before you go, ensure that everyone is wearing hiking shoes (not sneakers or running shoes) -- the terrain can get rocky.

Location: Alpine, NJ

Difficulty: Easy to hard

Drive time from NYC: 50 min.

More info: njpalisades.org

Muttontown Preserve

hiking with kids near nyc — Tim C. via Yelp

The Muttontown Preserve trail is one of the easiest on our list, with winding but relatively flat trails through 550 acres of fields, woods, and ponds. The trails here are less like hikes and more like nature walks, allowing everyone to take in their surroundings without getting overtired—perfect for little feet and beginners. The trails also take you through a number of estates, as well as the curious remains of the mansion of King Zod, the last Albanian monarch. It is now in ruins, and covered in some colorful graffiti, making for an interesting sight among the trees. The trail markers can leave something to be desired here however, so come equipped with a map, a compass, and/or a GPS or you may end up spending a bit more time here than you meant to!

Location: East Norwich, NY

Difficulty: Very easy

Drive time from NYC: 50 min

More info: nassaucountyny.gov

Greenbelt Conservancy Parks

hiking trails for kids near me — Galen O. via Yelp

Sometimes we forget there is nature in our own backyard. If walking through Prospect and Central Park is not exciting enough, take a day trip to Staten Island's Greenbelt Conservancy parks. This foundation oversees 2800 acres of public park—including 30 miles of hiking and walking trails—and consists of High Rock, WIllowbrook, and LaTourette Parks.

All three are hidden pockets of nature and offer hours of leisurely hiking trails through wooded areas, marshes, ponds and other gorgeous landscapes. Both destinations are a perfect starter for the kids due to their location and the ease of the trails. They can wet their little hiking boots here, then move on to the more challenging or lengthier trips.

Location: Staten Island, NY

Difficulty: Easy

Drive from NYC: 35 mins

More info: nycgovparks.org

Eagle Rock Reservation

The hiking at the Eagle Rock Reservation is easy enough for kids to keep up, and without much of a trail to follow you are left to blaze your own path through the woods. But the walking itself is not what will keep the family coming back: hiking here rewards you with an amazing panoramic view of Manhattan. Before you head out on your walk, make sure you pay a visit to the 9/11 memorial.

Location: West Orange, NJ

Difficulty: Easy

Drive from NYC: 45 min

More info: nynjtc.org

Schunemunk Mountain

Schunemunk Mountain is another fantastic spot to take the kids. The prehistoric beach offers over 25 miles of hiking trails and varied terrain, but it's not suitable for beginners so prepare accordingly. The mountain boasts some spectacular features, like a 3,000 foot pink rock and wild blueberries ripe for picking in late spring and early summer. Some of the (literally) biggest attractions along the mountain trails are the giant megalith boulders at the top of the mountain, but be prepared to do some sweating on your way up — the diverse terrain is beautiful but it can get tough.

Location: Orange County, NY

Difficulty: Hard

Drive time from NYC: 1 hr 40 min

More info: nynjtc.org

— Yuliya Geikhman

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Target Just Dropped Bullseye’s Top Toys List & It’s Christmas in August

by Sarah ShebekAugust 25, 2021

Ready or not, Christmas shopping is right around the corner! Target has just released the annual Bullseye’s Top Toys list for your making-a-list inspiration. This year features the most exclusives ever, with new 22 toys and games you can only buy at the massively popular retailer.

You’ll find 50 top toys to choose from and Target has even broken it down into categories like “Inspiring New Stories” and “Inspiring Active Play” to make shopping easier. Top brands Disney, LEGO, FAO Schwarz and L.O.L. Surprise! all have exclusive Target offerings for the holiday season. Better yet, many are available to buy now!

Some of the exclusive Target products to look for:

Prices start at $19.99 and Red Card holders can get 5% off Top Toys purchases all through the holiday season. Need it fast? Take advantage of the same-day fulfillment options like Drive Up or Pick Up in store!

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Daniel O’Donnell, Unsplash

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The Best Strollers for Urban Parents & City Living

by Jamie Davis SmithJuly 9, 2021

Navigating a stroller through city streets and up and down walk-ups takes some special skills and the right wheels. Whether you need a lightweight stroller you can carry up stairs, shock absorption to handle rough sidewalks, a compact style for narrow store aisles, or the ability to pivot easily through crowds, you’re sure to find the right city stroller below.

Metro Ready

The Ergobaby Metro+ is designed for metro moms. This compact, lightweight stroller folds up small enough to fit on most buses and subways. It also fits in the overhead bins on airplanes so you don't need to gate-check it. This also means it folds up to a small enough package to make storage in small apartments feasible. The Metro is designed for tots who find themselves spending a lot of time in the stroller. Inspired by Ergobaby carriers, it has extra padding for maximum support and has a deep recline and an adjustable leg rest for added comfort. Bonus: This stroller can be used from birth through 40 pounds so it will last a long time.

Available at ergobaby.com, $299.

Electric Dreams

The Cybex Priam has been a popular stroller among urban parents for years, thanks to its table-height seat that gives little ones better views on long walks, the smooth ride and larger than average basket. The newer e-Priam retains all of the features of the original but adds a small motor that gives parents some assistance whenever it detects extra pressure on the handlebar. This is very useful for going up hills and over uneven terrain—or for when Mom or Dad are tired and just don't want to work so hard.

Available at cybexonlineshop.com, $999.95-$1,699.95 for the Priam and $1,179.90-1,529.95 for the e-Priam

Small Wonder

A lightweight stroller is a must in the city. The Colugo Compact folds up small enough to fit behind the passenger seat in a car or an overhead bin in an airplane. That means it can be stored under a bed or in a small closet when storage space is at a premium. It even comes with a storage backpack for easy transport on buses or for when your little one just wants to walk. Bonus: Accessories that parents usually have to pay extra for, including a rain cover and cup holder, come included. It's also available in a variety of fun prints so your stroller won't get lost in a sea of black.

Available at hicolugo.com, $285.

Very Versatile

You never know what the city will throw your way, from uneven sidewalks to narrow doorways to steep curbs, so maneuverability is key. The UPPAbaby Vista2 is a stroller that can handle it all. Plus, it is designed with thoughtful details that make city life easier, including an oversize easy-access basket, reversible full-size seat, shock-absorbing suspension to ensure a smooth ride, and an included bassinet that makes the stroller suitable from birth. Bonus: The Vista can be configured to accommodate two children with an optional rumble seat and a third child with an add-on PiggyBack Ride-Along board.

Available on amazon.com, $969.99.

Convenience on Wheels

City parents know that convenience is key. They don't have time to mess around with lots of different strollers and can't dedicate too much space to storing baby gear. A great solution is an all-in-one travel system like the B-Free & B-Safe Gen2 FlexFit Travel System from Britax. A complete system that can be used from birth through the toddler years means that parents only need to pick out one stroller and there is no guessing whether a car seat and stroller are compatible. This system also features a convenient extra-large basket so urban parents can use it for shopping or day-long adventures and a car seat that does not need to be rethreaded as baby grows.

Available at amazon.com, $501.49.

Views All Around

In the city, there is always something new to see or a new space to squeeze through. The Cybex Eezy Twist 2 provides a unique solution with a seat that swivels 360 degrees, so tots can face the street, a parent or even to the side. Even better, it folds up compactly and stands up straight when folded, making it easy to store in small spaces.

Available on amazon.com, $299.99.

The Stroller that Turns Into a Car Seat

The Doona is a dream stroller for any city mom who relies on Uber, buses or cars to get around. Instead of dealing with a car seat that snaps into a stroller or going without a car seat at all, simply extend the legs to turn the car seat into a stroller, and then fold the legs back up to return the Doona to car-seat mode. The whole process takes seconds. Doona's unique design makes this car seat on wheels an ideal choice for any parent who does not want to haul around a car seat and stroller. It's also a great choice for people who don't want to fuss with taking their baby out of the stroller to ride on a bus or train.

Available on amazon.com, $499.

A Wonderous Wagon

Getting around the city can sometimes mean hauling a lot of things over uneven sidewalks, uneven city parks or gravel. Add in a child or two and a sturdy stroller wagon with tons of space may make sense as an alternative to a traditional stroller. A WonderFold Wagon has plenty of space for kids who need a little more room than a stroller seat, plus playground gear or groceries. Bonus: This spacious wagon easily folds up small enough to store in a closet.

Available at amazon.com, $379.99.

—Jamie Davis Smith

featured image: Ergobaby

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Spectacular Waterfall Trails to Hit Now

by Maura O'BrienMarch 1, 2021

Shake off the summer heat with an awesome adventure filled with dense woodlands, volcanic ridges, and a rushing cascade (or two). From the Columbia River Gorge to the Cascade Mountain foothills, the following are six of our favorite waterfall hikes, all located within sixty miles of the Portland area. Whether you’re looking for a level, stroller-friendly path or a dazzling misty payoff, these trails will give you just the experience you need to shake off the COVID blues. Read on for all the details.

photo: Carrie Uffindell

Pothole Falls at Lacamas Lake Park

For a quick hike in the metro area, head to 312-acre Lacamas Lake Park. At the play area, follow the gravel path circling the lake through the trees. Nestled a short distance off the main trail is the falls, named for the round holes punched into the rock. An unexpected highlight is the fish screen and dam, located on the south side of the lake. With several sections of moderately steep terrain, this walk isn’t suitable for strollers. Make a day of it with visits the park’s other two waterfalls, also located off the main loop.

Pandemic Status: Open
Round-trip distance: 1.2 mile (Round Lake Loop)
When You Go: Free. The park is located 15 miles east of Vancouver, WA off Highway 14. Spots in front fill up fast, so look for the large overflow lot at the north end..

Munson Creek Falls

The short, winding path – perfect for little legs – follows along the creek to an impressive 319-foot tumbler, the tallest in the Coast Range. The protected site, located south of Tillamook, is a 62-acre timber-turned-natural area, so be sure to enjoy the old-growth western red cedar, moss-draped maples, wildflowers, and other flora and fauna along the way. In late fall and winter, the waters are home to spawning salmon.

Pandemic status: Park is open dawn to dusk with reduced services.
Round-trip distance: 0.6 miles, out and back
When You Go: Free. From Portland, take Highway 26 west approximately 77 miles. Turn left on Munson Creek Road. Note: Parking is limited and no restrooms are available.

Silver Falls State Park

Peek behind a 177-foot torrent of water at this 9,200-acre Oregon park, situated in the foothills of the Cascade Mountains. Of the ten waterfalls sprinkled throughout the park, South Falls is one of the most accessible – and dramatic – for families. From the South Falls lot, follow the main path (and the sound of rushing water) past the lodge to a viewpoint above. From there, descend 400 feet to explore a cave behind the falls. For the full 2.6-mile loop, continue on to Lower South Falls. Or, for a shorter 1-mile walk, return via the scenic bridge.

Pandemic status: Expect reduced services. No showers. Camping reservations required (no walk-ins). Day-use visitors should plan to turn around if parking lots are full.
Round-trip distance: 2.6-mile (Maple Ridge Loop)
When You Go: $5/vehicle. Head south some 55 miles to Silverton. From Silverton, take Highway 214 almost 16 miles south until you reach the park. Follow the signs to the South Falls Day Use Area.

photo: Chi T. via yelp

Multnomah Falls

One of the the most popular waterfalls hikes in the Gorge. This 611-foot-tall roaring force of nature lets visitors get up close and personal with its power. According to Native American lore, Multnomah Falls was created to win the heart of a young princess who wanted a hidden place to bathe. And this spot is magical. This hike can be made shorter or longer as there are multiple tiers that offer different views. Each is spectacular, but the lower hike is more appropriate for families with younger children or elderly grandparents.

Pandemic status: Open
Round-trip distance: A moderate, 2.2-mile hike with 700 feet of elevation gain to the top of Multnomah Falls, or a difficult 5.4-mile loop to Wahkeena Falls with 1,600 feet of elevation gain.

featured image: Jonathon L. via yelp

—Annette Benedetti

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3 Innovative New Toys That Prove PAW Patrol Rules

by Jamie AderskiNovember 25, 2020

Have a preschooler? Then you know all about PAW Patrol and how much your kid is, dare we say, obsessed! What’s not to love? The PAW Patrol is heroic, has each other’s backs and knows how to have a good time! We approve. Of course, kids want to keep the adventure going with their favorite pups through imaginative play long after the episode is over. Just in time for crossing off holiday wish lists, PAW Patrol has new toys that will send them on epic rescue missions with cool new gear like a spinning helicopter, motorized ride and a dual race super-speed track!

Read on to learn why these three imaginative, inventive and innovative toys will be on every kid’s wish list!

PAW Dino Rescue Patroller

Well, this is cool: the Dino Patroller is the first-ever motorized PAW vehicle! With the touch of a button, this powerhouse patroller is on the move with oversized wheels to conquer any terrain. Before you head out, load the projectiles into the launcher and get ready for adventure. Push T. Rex's tail to make its mouth open to help the PAW Patrol spot a dino in trouble, then launch the rescue nets and save the day!

This all new, motorized all-terrain vehicle features room for the whole pup squad (All six! But you knew that...) and includes an exclusive and collectible Chase figure in his Dino Rescue uniform and a T. Rex dinosaur, with moving mouth and tail—now you can create your own prehistoric missions!

PAW Patrol Ultimate Cruiser

An XL, extra-special 5-in-1 cruiser is made for our hero Chase, but roomy enough that the crew can join to do the “Pup, Pup, Boogie!” The whole squad will be ready for action and equipped to handle any emergency, whether it’s on dry land, in the air or at sea.

What’s the 5-in-1 all about? More than just a hot ride for cool pups, you can launch the helicopter that’s tucked away inside with the push of a button, spin the propellers by hand and you’re off! This ultimate cruiser features dual motorcycles that pop off with a button—now you’re ready for that high-speed chase! They thought of everything for this majorly awesome ride, including flashing lights and sound effects that bring the excitement of a PAW Patrol mission to life!

PAW Patrol Adventure Bay Rescue Way

PAW Patrol is really on a roll with this action-packed lookout tower! It features two different tracks to send vehicles racing around the tower in a corkscrew, or flip the diverter to send them down the drop ramp—boom! Craving even more action? Use the dual garage launchers in corkscrew mode to send two more vehicles flying—launch up to six true metal vehicles at the same time! Push the periscope and watch the pups race to the rescue while you cheer them on!

Bonus points: This high-speed track is equipped with exclusive True Metal die-cast Chase and Marshall vehicles—perfect for kiddos who love PAW Patrol and fast cars! Speed to the rescue and put out the fire with your favorite pups!

All three new toys are available in stores and online at Amazon, Target and Walmart.

—Jamie Aderski

Hit the Trail: 10 Kid-Friendly Hikes You’ll Love Around Denver

By AllTrails

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

November 13, 2020

It’s no surprise that Denver if full of gorgeous hikes around every corner. Our friends at AllTrails sent over this list of their 10 favorite hikes for kids near Denver that include lots of flat terrain, short hikes, easy accents and of course, beautiful views. Check out the list below!

1. City Park Perimeter Loop

City Park Perimeter Loop is a lightly trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 3.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy

2. Cheesman Park Outer Loop

Cheesman Park Outer Loop is a loop trail located near Denver, Colorado and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, running, and nature trips and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1.8 miles
Difficulty: Easy

3. Garfield Lake Loop

Garfield Lake Loop is a lightly trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, nature trips and bird watching. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 0.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy

4. Huston Lake Trail

Huston Lake Trail is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy

5. Riverfront Loop

Riverfront Loop is a lightly trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that features a river and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy

6. Westerly Creek Trail

Westerly Creek Trail is a moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Denver, Colorado and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options.

Distance: 2.4 miles
Difficulty: Easy

7. Belmar Park

Belmar Park is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado that offers scenic views and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until October. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 2.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy

8. Crestmoor Park Loop

Crestmoor Park Loop is a lightly trafficked loop trail located near Denver, Colorado and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for walking, running, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 1 mile
Difficulty: Easy

9. Dry Gulch Trail Loop

Dry Gulch Trail Loop is a loop trail located near Denver, Colorado and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and running. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

Distance: 3.3 miles
Difficulty: Easy

10. Tabor, West and Bass Lakes Loop

Tabor, West and Bass Lakes Loop is a moderately trafficked loop trail located near Wheat Ridge, Colorado that features a lake and is good for all skill levels. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from April until September. Dogs are also able to use this trail.

Distance: 2.1 miles
Difficulty: Easy

Featured photo: iStock

AllTrails

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

AllTrails helps connect us to the outdoors and makes getting outside easier and more accessible. Home to the largest collection of hand-curated trail guides, with AllTrails you can search for and navigate trails, parks, and green spaces, or use filters to find your next favorite trail.

Want a 3-Night Stay on Your Own Mountain? Here’s How to Book It

by Karly WoodOctober 23, 2020

Looking for a socially distant vaycay? We think this “Book the Mountain” listing from Vrbo will do the trick.

The annual event is bringing a once-in-a lifetime listing to Eagle Point Resort in Beaver, Utah and you get the entire mountain to yourself! How much will it cost you? Oh, just a $100 a night.

The only catch? You need to be the one lucky family who books the listing first by visiting the Vrbo listing on Fri., Oct. 30^th at 1 p.m. EST.

If you snag it, you’ll get private access to the ski-in and ski-out 2,900 square foot chalet that sleeps up to 16 people. The five-bedroom home also has full access to the Eagle Point resort, with exclusive private access to five lifts, 40 ski runs and full terrain.

The booking will be valid for Mon., Feb. 15, 2021 through Thurs., Feb. 18, 2021. Good luck!

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Vrbo

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Baby Gear Deals on Prime Day We Can’t Wait For

by Karly WoodOctober 14, 2020

Are you ready for Amazon Prime Day? Well ready or not, here it comes!

This year, the members-only sale runs Tues., Oct. 13- Wed., Oct. 14, with tons of notable deals released throughout both days. Amongst them, we have our eyes on some great baby products and gear. Keep reading to see our picks, and don’t forget to check back here for up-to-date sales.

Babyganics

We love these fragrance-free, non-allergenic baby wipes from Babyganics. Get a pack fo 10 for only $19.10. See the deal here.

Chicco

Chicco is offering 25 percent off on baby gear that includes car seats and travel systems:

DockATot

The multi-functional snuggling dock for baby and littles will be 20 percent off for the Deluxe+ dock in Pristine White.

Dream on Me

Snag this pack 'n' play mattress for 24% off. Our Editorial Director has this same exact mattress for her pack 'n' play and thinks it makes naps and nighttime sleep much more comfortable for both her kids.

Enfagrow

Select Enfagrow products will be 20 percent off, including:

Evenflo

Evenflo is offering 20 percent off select products. Head to Amazon and check out:

FANSIDI

Cut baby's nails with ease with this electric nail filing set from FANSIDI, which has gotten close to 3,000 reviews and 4.5 stars.

Lansinoh

Take 20 to 35 percent off select Lansinoh products:

Nanit Plus

Select Nanit cameras will be 20 percent off, including:

Nanit Plus camera with wall mount ($240)
Nanit Plus camera with floor stand ($304)
Nanit Complete bundle with floor stand ($304)

Pampers Pure Diapers & Wipes

Our Editorial Director is a huge fan of Pampers and will be scooping up some of these deals for her kids this Prime Day. Notable deals for Pampers Pure diapers and wipes collection include:

• Size 1 diapers and wipes (29% off)

• Size 2 diapers and wipes (28% off)

• Sizes 3 diapers and wipes (18% off)

• Size 4 diapers and wipes (38% off)

• Size 5 diapers and wipes (36% off)

• Size 6 diapers and wipes (26% off)

Playtex

Playtex's diaper genie is 25% off this Amazon Prime Day. Get the deal here.

Regalo Baby

Regalo Baby has 30 percent off select products including:

SpoonfulOne

Spoonful One is offering 40 percent off select Allergen Introduction Mix-Ins and Allergen Introduction Puffs.

The Honest Company

The Honest Company is another favorite brand of ours and many of their diapers are on sale this Prime Day. Here are some deals worth noting:

• SuperClub box of 120 diapers in Size 4 for $36 (normally $52)

• Overnight size 4 diapers (54 count) for $17 (normally $26)

• Size 5 diapers (100 count) for $36.69 (normally $51)

––Karly Wood

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What? You’re Not Geocaching in NYC? Here’s How to Get Started!

by rtvictoriapratherOctober 13, 2020

As the official geocaching web site geocaching.com puts it: “Geocaching is the real-world treasure hunt that’s happening right now, all around you.” What kid (or person, really) wouldn’t find that statement at least a little bit intriguing? It’s also a free and fun way to spend time as a family and with friends, while also exploring the city. Here’s our guide to getting started and where to geocache in NYC!

photo: Victoria Prather

The Geocaching Basics
Geocaching (pronounced “gee-oh-cash-ing”) is essentially, a free technology-based worldwide scavenger hunt created by millions of individuals, independently. Little treasures or “caches” are tucked away in public spaces by people and then found by others who log their discovery, both in a roster on site and online. Sometimes, the cache will include a tiny “take one, leave one” token (a patch, a shell, a sticker, an action figure), that finders take, while leaving a similar item behind for the next geocacher to find — but really, this pastime is all about the thrill of the hunt and the discovery.

photo: Lisa Schorr

How to Get Caching
Intrigued? (You should be.)

To get started, the basic requirements are simple. You’ll need:

• A smartphone or iPad with GPS/location services or a GPS device

• The Geocaching app or access to geocaching.com via the internet (you’ll need to set up a free account at https://www.geocaching.com)

• A pen or marker to record your discovery of the cache

• A small item to leave at the cache if necessary

• A sense of adventure

photo: Victoria Prather

On the Hunt
Once you have the basic supplies and have set up your free account, you can enter your location on the app or web site and see precisely how many caches are nearby, and where they are. To date, there are over 2.7 million geocaches worldwide and thousands are right here in New York City as well as the tri-state area. Then, you simply navigate your way to the cache with the aid of your device.

Most caches are containers of varying sizes; the Geocaching app or website will tell you more details regarding the type, the overall difficulty level of finding them, and the terrain you’ll have to traverse on your search — some people stash the cache in more out of the way spots.

Each cache will either have a logbook, a log sheet, and as mentioned above, sometimes even a piece of treasure attached to its find. (The geocaching app will also let you know if the latter is the type you’re seeking.) Caches vary greatly, but the standard rules are the same: under all circumstances, the contents should be family-friendly.

Generally speaking, your first cache should be a simple one. To start, check the app/website for an easy find in terms of difficulty level and make sure that if you’re traveling with a stroller or other child gear, take in consideration the requirements of the location. The details will be spelled out for you within the Geocaching app/website, so you can stick to one that’s easy to find and ensure it’s a fun scavenger hunt for all involved.

photo: Lisa Schorr

Beginner’s Tips
If you do get stuck, you can find some additional hints within the app/web site to get you back on track.

For basic safety reasons, you’ll want to seek for geocaches during daylight hours and never trespass in an area that is closed.

Also, be sure to keep your detective skills to yourselves. You’re seeking out hidden treasure in a public space, and you don’t want the whole world to see where you’re uncovering the booty! (In the geocaching world, civilians are described as “muggles” — yes, just like in Harry Potter — so be sure you’re keeping your discoveries low-key.)

photo: Lisa Schorr

Geocaching The Big Apple
You literally can geocache almost anywhere in the world, which makes it a fun activity to do when traveling, too. (You can even geocache in Antarctica. We checked.) The great news is the New York City is teeming with secret stashes hidden in every borough. (And of course, in New Jersey, Westchester and beyond!)

Densely-cached areas include parks (both Central Park and Prospect Park are rich in caches), as are downtown below 14th Street and Midtown between 34th and 57th Streets. Many areas in Brooklyn, like Red Hook, Carroll Gardens and Bay Ridge are favorite hiding spots for geocachers.

So get going! Before you know it, you and the kids will be creating caches for other newbies to discover!

—Victoria Prather

4 Great City Products for City Moms

By Megan Harper

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

September 10, 2020

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Three kids in the fastest city in the world isn’t a big thing if you’re well equipped. I love taking the kids places from early morning jogs, to three kids on the MTA, ferry rides to Brooklyn or throwing a stroller in the back of a cab I’ve rounded up the best gear for city traveling.

Best Carrier for NYC Moms

1. Baby Carrier: ArtipoppeThis is the most comfortable carrier for running around the city. Not only is it beautiful and makes you feel pretty postpartum it is the only carrier I’ve used for hours on end that doesn’t hurt my back.

Cost: $342

2. Travel Stroller: Uppababy Minu
This stroller is my favorite grabbing the kids to go for a city adventure. It’s easy to fold up for the back of cab or carry up and down subway stairs and it handles the city streets well even down on the cobblestone in the Meat Packing District. Costs: $399.99

3. Wagon Stroller: Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon

Every city mom needs a wagon for neighborhood adventures. When you’re staying close to home and don’t have to worry about subway stairs this wagon is the best for throwing all the kids in and heading to the farmer’s market. Price: $299.99

4. Jogging Stroller: Bob Alterrain Pro
If you’re a jogger and live in NYC you’re in luck because you get some of the best views of the world right on your workout. Price: $599.99 5. Best Double Stroller: Evenflo Baby Gold Pivot Expand Double strollers in the city can be tricky. Any parent rocking a side by side version is sure to be a tourist. The evenflo gold is perfect for boardwalk days in Coney Island navigating the busy streets. Price: $499.99

Megan Harper

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

👦🏼👧🏼👶🏼 Mom to Huck, Gigi and Goldie 👩🏼‍💻 Head of Product Growth @tinybeanskids & @redtricycle 🏙 Urban Mom @gugu_guru 🍷The Mom Somm @parents

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Megan Harper

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