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1. For the Warm-Weather Tot: Hippo Park Playhouse – Upper West Side

This popular Upper West Side playground has plenty of toddler-friendly attractions, including the namesake hippos. During summer months, guests appreciate the shady canopy and gentle mist of water features. Aside from the free out-of-doors entertainment, the big draw here is Hippo Park Playhouse, located within, which has kid-sized furniture, access to running water, refrigerators, and counter space on which to lay out your birthday spread. The cost is $600 for two and a half hours, with an afternoon or a morning timeslot available daily. Read our post for more of our favorite party parks.

2. For the Animal-Loving Tot: The Art Farm in the City – Upper East Side

Wee partygoers will get to snuggle real, live animals at this Upper East Side institution. Parties include a pair of dedicated staff members who keep things moving. Children have music, art, and time with small animals—including bunnies, guinea pigs, and turtles—before everyone sits down for a kid-pleasing meal. The Art Farm offers multiple themed party options, though the classic Art Farm Party is best for tots and starts at $1,650 for 10 guests. Families generally provide food for the adults and the cake, too. Read our full review of the venue for more on what to expect.

3. For the Tumbling Tot: Cathedral of St. John the Divine – Morningside Heights

We're big fans of the play space at this Morningside Heights spot. Toddlers will delight in its "Mat Party," which includes a cushioned play space and plenty of equipment on which to climb. A party assistant leads toddlers in circle time, parachute games, tag, or stories and songs. Parties are customizable and held on Saturdays and select holidays.

Complete Playground offers a variety of party packages and add-ons like character visits. Photo courtesy of the venue

4. For the Playful City Kid: Complete Playground – Financial District

Complete Playground is a sprawling 40,000-square-foot indoor play space designed to spark imagination and movement in even the tiniest guests. With soft play zones, tunnels, climbing structures, and colorful sensory features, it’s a dream come true for new walkers and curious crawlers. Party packages include a private event areas, staff assistance, and optional add-ons like music or themed activities. Prices vary by package and start at $1,300. 

5. For the Mini Music Lover: Kids at Work NYC – Chelsea

Kids at Work NYC specializes in warm, hands-on first birthday celebrations that blend music, sensory play, and exploration. Its dedicated “First Birthday Party” package includes private use of the space, themed sensory activities, and live music with a singing guitarist. The cozy studio is perfect for babies and toddlers who thrive on routine and gentle stimulation, while parents can relax knowing everything—from activities to cleanup—is taken care of. Packages start around $1,580 for up to 15 children, with options to customize.

6. For the Classic City Celebration: Le Carrousel – Midtown

Le Carrousel in Bryant Park offers a charming, storybook setting for a first birthday celebration. The beautifully restored carousel features gentle music, twinkling lights, and perfectly sized rides for toddlers and their grown-ups. Party packages include unlimited rides during the reserved time, plus use of nearby tables for snacks, cake, and presents. It’s an easy, low-fuss option for families who want a magical outdoor experience right in the heart of Manhattan. Packages start around $600 for up to 12 children, with add-ons available for private use or catering options. Birthday parties are available from April through September. For colder  months, check out Bryant Park's Winter Village for celebration options.

7. For the Proper Tot: Alice's Tea Cup – Various locations

If you're the first in your crew to be toting around a toddler and you're more focused on entertaining your friends than your kid's, book one of the private spaces at Alice's Tea Cup. Adults can mingle over a tower of tea treats and take turns entertaining the guest of honor. For parties of six-plus, you must purchase prix fixe tea service.

6 River Terrace is a great, budget-friendly option if you're willing to do much of the work yourself. Photo courtesy of the venue

8. For the Downtown Tot: 6 River Terrace — Battery Park City

This bright, airy party room is near one of our favorite playgrounds, making it a great option for an inside/outside party in warm weather. If you have a winter babe, add indoor play equipment to your rental. At 2,000 square feet, the space accommodates a large party. Cost includes an event liaison to help you set up, clean up, and act as a go-between with caterers if you choose to use one. Plan to DIY a lot of this party. Space rental starts at $600.

9. For the Tiny Climber: Golden Minds Playground — Financial District

Golden Minds Playground is a private indoor play space especially made for children under 6, offering soft-safe play zones, a padded gym area, bounce house fun, and a parents’ lounge so grown-ups can relax while littles roam. Its “Golden Birthday” package gives you exclusive use of the facility for about 2 1/2 hours, with a party leader, setup for food and cake, basic decorations, and included water/juice. The playground, gym, and lounge are all designed with toddlers in mind. Pricing starts at $1,680; base pricing covers up to 30 guests (15 kids + 15 adults). Get a sneak peek at the play space here.

10. For the Neighborhood Celebration: YM & YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood – Washington Heights

The YM & YWHA of Washington Heights & Inwood offers bright, welcoming spaces for little ones to celebrate their first birthday close to home. Party packages include private use of a playroom and party room, complete with themed activities like music, art, or sensory play led by experienced staff. Families can bring their own decorations, cake, and food, while the Y provides setup, cleanup, and age-appropriate play equipment. It’s an easy, community-centered choice for families seeking a cozy, low-stress celebration. Packages start around $650 for non-members ($550 for members) for a 2-hour party with staff support included.

Tips to Make Your Child's First Birthday Bash a Blast

• Think outside the box. The most successful parties I've had for my kids were held at the daycare they attended. The kids (and their friends) are comfortable in the space, there are plenty of playthings, and space for adults to mingle. Seeing kids interact in their home away from home is also fun.
• If your child doesn't attend daycare, check with local ones in your neighborhood about their willingness to rent a space.
• Community centers and local YMCAs also may be willing to rent a party room on the cheap.
• It always helps to befriend someone whose building has a community room where you can host a soiree, too.

Originally published in 2018.