If you’re heading to New York City for the first time, you might be thinking: “Is NYC as big a hassle as everyone says it is?” The answer: not at all—especially when you’ve loaded your smart phone with these handy travel apps.

New York MTA Subway Map

Where to download it: Android | iOS
Why you should: Forget about renting a car or spending a fortune on taxis. Taking the subway is perfectly safe for families, and it's often faster than driving. The MTA's app has live updates on the status of trains crisscrossing the city, which makes plotting your route from one borough to the next a breeze.

Flush — public toilet finder

Where to download it: Android | iOS
Why you should: NYC is notorious for being difficult for public bathroom-seekers—a category that definitely includes anybody traveling with small children. The aptly named Flush maps out available toilets and provides easy-to-follow, step-by-step directions telling you where to go when you need to go.

American Museum of Natural History Explorer

Where to download it: Android | iOS
Why you should: New York’s massive science museum is a must-visit for families, especially those with kids interested in animals. The facility’s Explorer app complements exhibits with interactive games and quizzes. Turn-by-turn directions steer you through the museum, and a feature even lets you buy tickets ahead of time to skip long lines.

GateGuru

Where to download it: Android | iOS
Why you should: If you’ve never been to LaGuardia or JFK International Airport, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by how busy they are. Try GateGuru, which provides a helpful map of the terminals as well as updates on wait times in the security line. When the kids get hungry, rely on the app’s directory—with user reviews—of each terminal’s restaurant and snack offerings.

Groupon

Where to download it: Android | iOS
Why you should: If you’re looking for things to do in NYC, we’ve got you covered. Groupon’s app runs deals for everything from hotels and restaurants to tours, museums, and concerts. Rent a bike for pedaling through Central Park, take a double-decker bus tour, or see an off-Broadway show. If you’re planning on sticking around a particular neighborhood, Groupon’s NYC map shows you nearby deals, meaning you won’t have to go far if the kids want to go bowling RIGHT NOW.