The Best NYC Trick-or-Streets for Families (Reviewed by a Local Mom)

After almost 8 years in NYC, I have learned Halloween is one of the biggest events of the year here. So whether you have a child or not the most asked question is where to go!

The answer is start by checking the NYC DOT Trick Or Streets for street closures for the best experiences. They have them listed on an interactive map. Based on that guide here are my block-by-block strategies based off of experience on how to execute an ideal Halloween in Manhattan while taking advantage of Trick or Streets pedestrian friendly destinations.

1. UPPER WEST SIDE

On the Upper West Side, West 69th Street (between Central Park West and Columbus Avenue) isn’t just decorated—the entire Block Association officially closes the street for what is widely considered Manhattan’s best neighborhood block party. Last year there was live performances and even characters repelling down brownstones.

Start: The street shuts down to vehicular traffic by late afternoon. If you’re coming with a stroller or group, enter from Central Park West right around 5:00 PM. Walk W69th toward Columbus then work your way north (neighboring blocks like W. 78th and W. 87th are equally incredible options). The later the more crowded and more lively the street gets.

2. WEST VILLAGE

The West Village actually operates on two entirely different timelines on October 31st:

The Daytime Neighborhood Vibe (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM): Head to West 11th Street (between Washington and Greenwich). The block association shuts down the street to cars early under the city’s Trick-or-Streets initiative, turning it into a tree-lined historic stoops, local families, and floating ghost displays.
The Nighttime Transition (After 6:30 PM): Once 6:30 PM hits, Sixth Avenue becomes a wall of parade spectators for the huge Village Halloween Parade. Either grab a spot or go west toward Perry Street or Charles Street to grab a drink away from the parade crowds.

3. UPPER EAST SIDE

Walk “Halloween Row” Before 4:00 PM East 78th Street (between Park and Lexington) this single UES block features multi-story limestone townhouses that spend thousands transforming their facades into elaborate haunted estates. If you want a pedestrian friendly street E92nd is great.

Other Tips:

Check the NYC DOT Trick Or Streets for street closures for the best experiences. If you have little ones, carrier is ideal or small stroller if you have to bring one.
Choose one location in fully immerse or start early and spend about 1.5 hours in each location ending with the parade downtown.
Also for alternate options on UWS: We also love trick or treating at the museums like American Museum of Natural History earlier in the day
Check your local parks to see what events they are having, for example Hippo Playground has their own Parade or
Many of the main avenues shop’s hand out candy like up and down Broadway or Columbus on the UWS from 68-76th and are also part of the Trick or Streets
Grab some pizza and eat in Central Park for a little break and some space
Of course there are halloween parties all over the City but this guide is for trick or treating 🙂