1-Bemelmans-Bar-madeline

In addition to being the setting for numerous films and novels, New York City maintains a special connection with children’s literature. Scores of authors set their stories here, which makes New York City a fairytale world for many children. New York City also possesses a marvelous array of sites associated with well-known works of children’s literature. So for your children or your inner child, here is our guide to sites where children’s stories come alive in New York City.

1. Eloise at The Plaza Hotel

eloise at the plaza 1eloise at the plaza

In 1955, Eloise was published. Written by Kay Thompson and Hilary Knight, the book followed the adventures of six year old Eloise who lived on the top floor of the Plaza Hotel. The books, and its sequels, have been accepted by the Plaza as a part of its heritage. A portrait of Eloise hangs in the hotel’s lobby and  the Eloise store allows readers to “dress up, so mini-Eloises can model their favorite looks from the podium…enjoy ‘park views’ and watch their favorite Eloise movie clips, or enjoy story time.” The store even hosts birthday parties. At the Eloise Tricycle Garage, children can rent Radio Flyer tricycles, children bikes and scooters (in addition to bicycles).

eloise at the plaza 6The Eloise Store in the Plaza Hotel