12 Children’s Books That Take You On A Big City Adventure

From the Brooklyn Bridge to the Lower East Side to Washington Heights, your kiddos can see NYC-based stories come alive by visiting the actual locations featured in some of their favorite books.

By Ashly Grzyb January 14, 2016

Have your kids ever wondered where exactly Knuffle Bunny was lost or what it might be like to live at the Plaza like Eloise? From the Brooklyn Bridge to the Lower East Side to Washington Heights, your kiddos can see NYC-based stories come alive by visiting the actual locations featured in some of their favorite books. Learn about historic landmarks, ride on public transportation, or walk the streets of a new neighborhood with a dozen locally set stories.

1. Eloise

By Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight

A classic children’s book written in 1955, Eloise is a sassy six year old girl who lives at the Plaza Hotel in Midtown. She goes on adventures (and gets into mischief) with her dog, turtle, and nanny. She isn’t a role model, but you’ll find her crazy antics entertaining.

Make the story come alive at: The Plaza Hotel, Park Ave. between 58th St. and Central Park South, Midtown EastIf your material girl has a yen to make like Eloise, taking her to the Plaza is free. It's a lot of fun and well-ventilated, too. While it's free to explore, once your kid gets a gander at the Eloise store, complete with a kid-sized pink piano - not to mention the special, Rawther Fancy Tea - all freebie bets are off.

Image courtesy of Eloise at the Plaza

Find these books and more at your local neighborhood bookstore!

Share your favorite children’s book about the Big Apple in the comments below!

–Ashly Grzyb