Rediscover Your City Through a Child’s Eyes

Wouldn’t it be amazing to see your hometown with the wide-eyed wonder of a child? Instead of viewing the city as a collection of office blocks and car parks, imagine it as a vibrant playground waiting to be explored. Since time travel remains unfeasible, we’ve curated an experiential journey that captures this spirit.

In this article, we explore the cities of Exeter, Dublin, New York City, and London through the adventures of children as they guide the way. Would a day following these pint-sized tour guides reignite a sense of curiosity or spiral into delightful chaos?

Following Alice through Wonderland (aka Exeter)

Everything is delightful until Alice, the six-year-old leader of our expedition, spontaneously decides she wants us to dance in the middle of Exeter’s bustling High Street during a sun-soaked Friday lunchtime. Admittedly, the busker is playing such a catchy tune that I can’t resist. Therefore, blushes aside, we let loose on the sidewalk.

Though I may look a bit silly, it’s the most liberated I’ve felt in a long time. We burst into laughter as the song fades, and I apologize to the busker while Alice tosses coins into his guitar case, giggling as we continue our fun-filled adventure.

Our busy morning in Exeter has included feeding swans along the quayside, indulging in cake at quaint cafés, climbing trees by ancient city walls, and making faces at the gothic cathedral’s gargoyles, proving Alice’s exploration skills are on point.

Next, we venture underground into the city’s medieval tunnel system, constructed over 500 years ago. As we navigate the tight passages, Alice resembles another infamous explorer known for her curiosity and penchant for peculiar adventures.

Upon escaping the tunnels and reaching Cathedral Green, we stumble upon a handwritten note concealed at the base of a tree, posing the intriguing question: ‘If you could, what would you do?’

Alice confidently replies, ‘I want to ride my bike,’ having previously eyed the bike-friendly canal path leading from Exeter to the seaside.

‘First, though, let’s dance…’

A Sporting Day Out in Dublin

Our children rarely have a say in how they spend their time. Therefore, when I tell Charlie (11) that he can dictate our day—with only the exclusion of PS4 and Fifa 18—it sparks great enthusiasm.

His immediate choice is to visit Croke Park.

Located in the heart of Dublin, Croke Park serves as the headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association, hosting thrilling international sports matches and music concerts.

Even though there’s no match today, Charlie excitedly reminds me, ‘You said I get to decide!’ Armed with his football jersey and a permanent marker (hoping for an autograph), we arrive at the empty stadium.

Fortunately, daily tours are available, and we manage to score tickets. Our visit includes the player’s lounge, dressing rooms, and even a test of the President of Ireland’s seat, examining the views from corporate boxes versus the fan experience on Hill 16.

Next, we embark on the Skyline tour atop the stadium, walking the perimeter on a breathtaking walkway. On a clear day, landmarks and natural vistas unfold before us.

After spending extra time in the interactive Games Zone, Charlie has one last request: ‘I think we should go to the beach.’

Despite the late hour, we venture to Donabate, a coastal town outside Dublin. There, Charlie hones his hurling skills on the sandy shore, and we conclude our adventure with a visit to Scrumdiddly’s ice cream parlour, treating ourselves to scrumptious apple crumble ice cream topped with melted Nutella. After all, every great outing deserves a delightful culinary finale.

On the Run in New York City

‘Superhero City!’ they shout in unison, striking action poses. Rohan (11) channels his favorite Superman-in-flight stance, while Kai (almost eight) adopts a fierce, don’t-mess-with-me demeanor.

In the vastness of New York City, we decide to focus our exploration on Brooklyn. Moreover, we set a superhero-themed challenge for the day, hoping to avoid potential chaos from competing guides.

Conducting some research, Rohan and Kai successfully map out a day filled with heroic activities—from seeking adventure at a climbing wall to visiting a superhero merchandise store.

Our first stop is the free bouldering wall in Brooklyn Bridge Park. However, it’s closed for the season, so we adapt and enjoy the ambiance nonetheless.

A quick NYC Ferry ride (cue the Aquaman reference) takes us beneath the iconic Brooklyn Bridge toward Williamsburg, where Action Burger awaits. Touted as ‘America’s only sci-fi sports bar, comic book, and retro video game-themed restaurant,’ it promises a unique dining experience.

When the opening time is delayed, we grab a quick bite at a nearby deli before finally enjoying the delicious, calorie-laden ‘super villain burgers’ that fuel our gaming adventure. Ready, player one!

After sharing superhero-inspired antics at the Desert Island Comic Book Store, we race to the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Company. This nonprofit hub is bursting with crime-fighting curiosities and merchandise, giving the boys a chance to try on capes and explore the vintage Mind Reading Chair.

Though exhausted, I must admit that our superhero adventure has been exhilarating.

Searching for Small-Screen Stars in London

On this day, I’m faced with two excited girls (ages nine and ten) after informing them: ‘Kids, you’re in charge today!’

With wide smiles, they quickly plot our itinerary. ‘Definitely LA!’ they exclaim.

We reside in London, but their dreams are fueled by thoughts of meeting their favorite YouTube stars in the City of Angels. However, when I clarify our budget—limited to food and public transport—their plans must adapt.

They spend time researching London’s iconic landmarks, from Westminster Abbey to the Museum of Docklands. However, once they discover the YouTube Creator Hub Space, all other attractions pale in comparison.

We hop on the Tube to the YouTube Space near Kings Cross Station. While access to the Creators Cafe requires a minimum of 10,000 subscribers, we take a look at the exclusive merchandise shop showcasing photos of famous vloggers.

Inspired by their favorite stars, the girls dash over to Platform 9¾, a site made popular through the Harry Potter series.

At the landmark, the girls grab my phone and start filming at the 9¾ Platform Shop—sampling ‘Every Flavour Beans’ and ‘Jelly Slugs’ while making cheeky videos.

Whether or not they attract enough subscribers for the Creators Cafe, this adventure is a triumph compared to my conventional plans focused on museums and galleries. Clearly, there is much to gain from letting kids guide the itinerary every now and then.