New York City – Mommy Travels https://www.mommytravels.net a family travel blog covering destinations around the world Sat, 09 Dec 2023 22:52:29 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://www.mommytravels.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/cropped-Mommy-Travels-favicon-2-32x32.jpg New York City – Mommy Travels https://www.mommytravels.net 32 32 Unwind and Reconnect: The Best Spas for Couples in NYC https://www.mommytravels.net/best-spas-for-couples-in-nyc/ Sat, 26 Aug 2023 01:22:18 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=42512 New York City is the ultimate destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway, but amidst all the hustle and bustle, it can be tough to find a moment of peace and quiet. Fear not, lovebirds, because NYC is also home to some of the most luxurious spas that allow you to unwind and reconnect with your partner. From deep tissue massages to beauty treatments, we’ve rounded up the best spas for couples in the Big Apple. So, put on your comfy robes, and let’s get ready to pamper!

The Spa at Mandarin OrientalThe Spa at Mandarin Oriental

Perched high above Columbus Circle, the spa at the Mandarin Oriental offers stunning views of the Central Park skyline while you indulge in luxurious treatments. Their “four-handed” massage is a must-try experience, where two therapists apply synchronized movements on your body. You and your partner will feel relaxed and rejuvenated in their luxurious relaxation area, complete with a tea lounge and an amethyst crystal steam room.

Shibui Spa at Greenwich Hotel Greenwich Hotel Shibui Spa

This boutique hotel in Tribeca offers a serene environment that feels like you’re miles away from the city. The Shibui Spa at The Greenwich Hotel is located on the hotel’s underground level and features a lantern-lit indoor swimming pool, hushed lounges, and saunas. If you are looking for a unique and private spa experience with your partner, book the spa suite where you can enjoy a massage and a soak in the infinity bathtub overlooking the courtyard garden.

AIRE Ancient BathsAIRE Ancient Baths

Travel back in time at this spa, located in a historic building in TriBeCa. Here, you and your partner can enjoy the ancient Roman-style hot and cold plunge pools, saltwater float tanks, and red wine baths. The unique wellness experience is as romantic as it sounds, complete with dim lighting, opulent marble floors, and soothing music that transports you back in time. Learn more here

The Peninsula SpaThe Peninsula Spa

Located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, The Peninsula Spa is a luxurious retreat that offers a wide range of treatments, ranging from facials to deep tissue massages. Share the “The Ultimate Recovery Experience” package with your partner, which includes a full body exfoliation, followed by a soothing back massage that is sure to relieve tension and stress. The relaxation lounge, with stunning views of Fifth Avenue, is also worth mentioning.

The Ritz-Carlton Spa New York, NoMadThe Ritz-Carlton Spa New York, NoMad

The spa is both intimate and exclusive inside the Ritz-Carlton Spa New York Nomad and offers a range of customizable facials and massages that can be tailored to your individual needs. Our personal favorite is their “Aroma-soul therapy retreat”, which involves unplugging from the outside world and immersing yourself in a sensorial experience that combines essential oils, a sound bath, and a full body massage.

Conclusion:

From underground spas to high rooftop retreats, NYC offers some of the best spa experiences for couples looking for a moment of serenity and intimacy. The spas mentioned above are just a few highlights, but there are plenty of other options available, too. So, book a day of relaxation and indulgence, and let the stress of the city melt away. After all, what’s better than unwinding and reconnecting with your significant other in a dreamy spa setting?

Read Next:

Best Places to Eat in the West Village, NYC

8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo, another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO.

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Unwind and Reconnect: The Best Spas for Couples in NYC appeared first on Mommy Travels.

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Best Places to Eat in the West Village, NYC https://www.mommytravels.net/best-places-to-eat-in-the-west-village-nyc/ Sun, 23 Jul 2023 11:36:00 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=41745 Diving into the best places to eat in the West Village is one of the greatest ways to enjoy a trip to New York City. NYC has so many restaurants that it would be impossible to try them all, even if you ate at three different restaurants a day for the rest of your life. For a visitor to the Big Apple, it can be overwhelming trying to decide where to eat for dinner. 

One of the best neighborhoods in New York for finding somewhere to eat is the West Village in Downtown Manhattan. The real estate in this neighborhood is pricey, and many celebrities have homes here. 

However, New York University is also in the area, so there are plenty of amazing casual restaurants that cater to college students with lighter wallets. No matter what your budget is, you will surely find somewhere to enjoy on this list of the best places to eat in the West Village. 

Pizzapizza

There are few things that New Yorkers take as seriously as they take reviewing “slice shops”. In the West Village, the two favorite choices for a slice of cheese pizza tend to be Joe’s or Bleecker Street Pizza, both of which attract many customers at all hours. The slice should be piping hot out of the oven, and you need to fold it in half while eating it, like real New Yorkers do. 

If you’d rather sit down to a whole pizza, the classic John’s of Bleecker is the best choice in the neighborhood. And if you’d rather experience Neapolitan-style pizza like they serve in Naples, stop at Song’E Napule, which is always popular, especially for outdoor dining when the weather is great.

Caffe Reggio

This Italian café is a must-visit spot when you check out the West Village. It has actually been around since the 1920s, and it’s the place that introduced Italian cappuccino to the United States. (You can see that historic cappuccino machine, which is still in the café.) 

The café itself has been part of many films, from the Godfather series to Inside Llewyn Davis by the Coen Brothers. Even if you don’t get one of their yummy pastries, it’s worth stopping by just to experience a truly historic cappuccino.

Ice Creammorgansterns

It might not be much of a surprise to learn that there are many excellent pizza places in the West Village. But not everyone knows that you can also get amazing ice cream in this area. One of the best places for those with an adventurous palate is Morgenstern’s, which serves every kind of flavor from plain chocolate to pickles and mayo. (It’s delicious.) 

Vegans or other non-dairy ice cream fans will love Van Leeuwen, which always has tasty vegan and non-vegan treats. And don’t miss Cones, which specializes in Argentinian ice cream. If you like dulce de leche, this is the spot for you!

En Japanese BrasserieEn Japanese Brasserie

This glamorous restaurant was started by a woman who wanted people to experience Japanese cuisine beyond just sushi. They make their own tofu, which will probably be the most flavorful tofu you will ever eat. 

They also serve deliciously cooked fish dishes like miso cod or salmon en papillote, and they even serve incredible fried chicken. On top of that, they have a spectacular Japanese whiskey and sake collection. If you are looking for a splurge, you can try their multi-course tasting menu, which is much like what you would find in a fine dining restaurant in Kyoto.

Bus Stop Cafébus stop cafe

The West Village used to be full of adorable diners, but there aren’t as many as there used to be, and the food isn’t always spectacular at the ones that do exist. However, if you do want a delicious diner breakfast, stop at the Bus Stop Cafe. They can cook your eggs any way you like them and serve them up with the perfect breakfast sides. 

They also serve diner classics like burgers and omelets all day, so you can enjoy this cute spot any time. Just make sure not to miss their soothing corned beef hash if it’s on the menu. And if you’re vegetarian or vegan, don’t worry because they have plenty of great options. 

Spicy Moon

Spicy Moon has something for everyone. If you like spicy Szechuan cuisine, you’ll love their Dan Dan Noodles and Kung Pao style. This restaurant is vegan, so these dishes will be made with tofu and meat substitutes, but even the biggest carnivores won’t miss the meat because the flavors are so strong and delicious. Just tuck into some dumplings and scallion pancakes and enjoy. 

They have two locations, and the one in the West Village is usually crowded, so either be prepared to wait, or order takeout and enjoy a picnic in nearby Washington Square Park.

Balkan StrEATbalkan streat

Balkan StrEAT is one of the newest fast-casual restaurants in the West Village. What makes this place unique is that it serves specialties from the Balkans, like shopska salad, the case-less sausages called cevapi, or hand pies called burek that are made out of phyllo dough. You can get the burek filled with anything from cheese and spinach to ground lamb and beef. 

Expats from Balkan countries like to come here to get a taste of home. It used to be much harder to get Balkan food in the West Village, but now fans of Serbian and Albanian cuisine have a great and affordable option.

North Square

One thing that sometimes confuses visitors to New York City is the question of what to do for brunch. It seems ridiculous to line up for hours just to eat some eggs Benedict. That’s because it is ridiculous! 

Instead, just make a reservation for jazz brunch at North Square, which is right off of Washington Square Park. You’ll get a delicious brunch, wonderful music, and you won’t have to wait on a long line. Everyone wins! All of their brunch specials are good, but their pumpkin pecan pancakes with a side of chicken and apple sausages are probably their most famous dish.

 

 

Loring Place

Loring Place is one of those restaurants that still seems cool and happening even though it has been open for years. Their specialties are their creative vegetable small plate dishes, whole wheat pizzas, and a very fancy cheeseburger. Save room for dessert because their ice cream sundae, topped with pretzels, toffee, and other treats, is not to be missed. 

Claudette

Claudette is a French Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that will introduce you to all the wonderful flavors you can find in this region. There’s a classic French steak frites, but there are also delicious Moroccan tagines. You can get a bouillabaisse like you would find in Marseille as well as refreshing gazpacho and a rich ratatouille. 

If you like cocktails, get a seat at the bar and indulge in one of their citrusy concoctions.

Tea and Sympathytea and sympathy

There’s a small corner of the West Village known as Little Britain, in large part because of this adorable British restaurant, which has been around for decades. They are famous for their afternoon teas. The tea comes with your choice of sandwiches, which can be vegetarian or not, scones with clotted cream and jam, and assorted cakes. 

However, they also serve British classics like beans on toast and Welsh rarebit for your enjoyment. Be sure to order a pot of tea, no matter what else you get. They have a billion flavors, and the tea will come in one of their many fabulous teapots in all sorts of shapes, from animals to English country houses. 

Da Toscano

Da Toscano is the place to try if you are interested in Italian food that isn’t just the same old spaghetti Bolognese. They have creative pasta dishes like pappardelle with duck ragu or squid ink spaghetti. However, don’t pass up the chance to try one of their meat or fish dishes, like the garlic butter stuffed chicken. And save room for dessert, especially the olive oil cake. 

Omakase Sushigenki omakase

These omakase sushi counters have become a very popular trend in the West Village in recent years. They offer top quality sushi at reasonable prices because there are no extra frills. You come in, get served about 11-17 pieces of flawless fish in the space of 60-90 minutes, and then leave. 

Some of these counters are BYOB, while others offer beer and sake for purchase. If you love all kinds of sushi from Kumamoto oysters to sea bream to uni, you will adore this unique experience. The best omakase counters in the West Village are Shiki, Genki, and Omakase Room by Maaser. 

Wicked JaneWicked Jane

If you are looking for a fine dining, special occasion restaurant in the West Village, this is definitely the place to go. It isn’t cheap, but the price is quite reasonable for a seven-course, gourmet-tasting menu. 

The first course will generally be several amuse-bouches, followed by three smaller fish courses, a main meat course, a fruit dessert, and a chocolate dessert. Stop by, and you’ll see why this restaurant is recommended by the prestigious Michelin Guide. 

These are just a few of the amazing places to eat that you can find in the West Village, and there are so many other wonderful spots to discover. Head out on your West Village culinary adventure today to find them for yourself! You can also explore some great Greenwich Village tours to find even more places to eat in the West Village.

Where to stay in NYC

Read Next:

Pink Taco NYC

8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

 

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo, another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO.

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post Best Places to Eat in the West Village, NYC appeared first on Mommy Travels.

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Pink Taco NYC https://www.mommytravels.net/pink-taco/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 16:30:00 +0000 http://www.fabfunsisters.com/demo/?p=253 Pink Taco, the iconic restaurant known for its attitude-filled tacos, just opened its latest outpost in the heart of Times Square, New York City bringing back its celebrated mix of food, drink, music, and party.

The newest Pink Taco location boasts an incredible design, with a 10,500 sq. ft. space that features seating for 300 guests across two floors. The restaurant’s design is a fusion of rustic and industrial vibes, with reclaimed barn wood and exposed columns complemented by custom neon signs that bring Pink Taco’s signature vibrant color palette to life. The space also features energetic murals painted by Jason Ackerman of Soho Ink, showcasing various traditional Mexican themes, including Día de los Muertos.

Pink Taco, NYC - photo by Andrew Werner, AWP_1462 v1 (1)

Pink Taco, NYC – photo by Andrew Werner

Guests are welcomed by party-vibe lighting that reflects off the skull-shaped disco ball in the expansive bar, igniting the party atmosphere before reaching the table seating. On the second floor, another bar awaits guests with high-top and cocktail seating along with a private dining room off to the side, closed off with sliding doors.

Pink Taco’s menu always keeps it real with fresh ingredients prepared with passion to create an eclectic mix of traditional and modern Mexican dishes. This new location features the OG menu with the return of Pink Taco favorites such as Fried Lobster Tacos, Coconut Shrimp Tacos, Jalapeño Chile Poppers, and The Big Barbacoa Burrito.

The beverage program at Pink Taco curates a cocktail menu to match the high-energy vibe of the restaurant, with drinks like The Frozen Strawberry, The Lexis Spritz, and the Espresso Tequila Martini. Additionally, a steady flow of tequila and mezcal spirits will be available on the menu for bottle service, shots or sips.

Pink Taco

I’ve always loved Pink Taco, especially their former restaurant in Vegas.

Expect a heavy emphasis on music with a state-of-the-art sound system and a rotation of DJs to keep the non-stop party feel going throughout the week and late into the night. The restaurant is open until a nightly 2 AM last call. For those who want to party in a group, the New York location exclusively offers bottle service from 9PM – last call with a variety of Tequila, Mezcal, Vodka, and Whiskey to choose from.

Brunch is an important part of the New York social scene, and Pink Taco’s daily over-the-top, Hangover Brunch raises the bar. The menu features Pink Churro Pancakes, Mexican Bread Pudding French Toast, Breakfast Papas, and more. There will also be an excess of “hangover cures” like the Rainbow Mimosa Buckets, pitchers of Fiery and Spiked Agua Frescas, and a Frozen Pink Sangria.

In summary, Pink Taco’s newest Times Square location promises to offer guests an unforgettable dining and party experience with its killer tacos, incredible design, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re stopping by for happy hour, brunch, or a late-night party, Pink Taco is the spot to be.

HOURS OF OPERATION:

Sunday – Saturday: 8AM– Last call at 2AM

Happy Hour (Monday – Friday): 3PM – 7PM

Daily Brunch: 8AM – 11AM

Daily Late Night Bottle Service: 9PM CLOSE

ADDRESS: 7 Times Square, New York, NY 10036

PHONE NUMBER: 212.315.TACO (8226)

RESERVATIONS: OpenTable 

Read Next:

8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

11 Best Places to Eat in New York City

pink-taco-nyc

The post Pink Taco NYC appeared first on Mommy Travels.

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Exploring Brooklyn with Kids this Summer: The Best Places to Visit https://www.mommytravels.net/brooklyn-with-kids/ Tue, 11 Apr 2023 18:33:49 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=39908 Families have many options to explore and enjoy the summer in New York City, a charming season. One of the boroughs worth visiting is Brooklyn. Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods, rich culture, and family-friendly activities offer something for everyone. This article discusses the best places to visit with kids in Brooklyn this summer, starting with the iconic Coney Island Beach.

Coney Island Beach: Sun, Sand, and Fun for the Whole Family

Coney Island

Brooklyn is well known for its great beaches, such as Coney Island Beach. Coney Island is the southernmost neighborhood of Brooklyn and is well-known for its beach, boardwalk, and theme park. The beach is the main appeal, bringing in countless tourists each summer. There is plenty of room for everyone to unwind and enjoy the sun on the more than three kilometers of sandy shoreline. The beach offers a variety of activities, including volleyball, surfing, and swimming.

The famous boardwalk at Coney Island Beach is one of its features. There is a flurry of activity along the 2.7-mile promenade, with food vendors, amusement booths, and games. The renowned Wonder Wheel, which provides breathtaking ocean views and the city skyline, is a favorite among children.

Coney Island Beach offers a variety of activities and attractions all year long for those seeking more than simply sun and sand. The beach hosts weekly fireworks displays throughout the summer. A spectacular celebration of imagination, culture, and art, the annual Mermaid Parade attracts tens of thousands of onlookers and participants. Visitors can explore the Coney Island Museum, which dives into the region’s history and well-known attractions. Coney Island Beach offers fantastic activities for the whole family, whether you’re searching for a laid-back day or an exhilarating adventure.

Brooklyn Bridge Park: A Waterfront Oasis with Stunning Views

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge

Beside the East River sits Brooklyn Bridge Park, an 85-acre shorefront demesne with stunning Manhattan skyline views. Among the park’s family-friendly features are a carousel, playgrounds, and sports fields. Children will also love the park’s unique features, such as the playgrounds at Pier 6 with swings, a sandbox, and a water play area.

One of Brooklyn Bridge Park’s primary draws is Jane’s Carousel, a quaint carousel that dates back to 1922 and has been rebuilt and dislocated. Youths will enjoy riding the beautifully drafted nags, which are in and of themselves works of art. The Carousel is an excellent spot for prints with the Manhattan skyline in the background.

 

 

Prospect Park: A Sprawling Urban Park with Plenty of Attractions

Prospect Park, the largest park in Brooklyn, is 585 acres of rich greenery and unspoiled beauty. Playgrounds, athletic fields, and a zoo are among the park’s family-friendly amenities. The Prospect Park Zoo, home to over 400 animals, including red pandas, sea lions, and other species, is one of the park’s features.

The LeFrak Center at Lakeside is a lovely addition to the effects to do in Prospect Park. This state-of-the-art skating and hockey complex offers public skating, skating assignments, and other services. Over the summer, the installation offers kayaking and paddle boarding on the lake in the demesne.

Prospect Park delivers for those wanting a peaceful haven with abundant natural beauty down from the hustle and bustle of the megacity. Among the numerous auditoriums and walking paths that make up the demesne is the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, which has more than 14,000 distinct factory kinds.

Also, callers can have fun and games in one of the demesne’s numerous open spaces or take tardy bike lifts along its lovely pathways. Prospect Park is a must-visit position for families wishing to spend a day outside in Brooklyn because of its colorful conditioning and graphic surroundings.

Brooklyn Children’s Museum: A Hands-On Learning Experience for Kids

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by Brooklyn Children’s Museum (@bcmkids)

 

The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is a must-visit location if you’re seeking an entertaining and instructive activity for your children. The Crown Heights Museum provides a variety of interactive exhibits and activities intended to spark interest and creativity.

The museum’s World Brooklyn exhibition, which honors the various cultures and customs of the borough, is one of its main attractions. In addition to other things, kids can visit a bodega and a shop that sells Asian dumplings. The museum offers a range of workshops and classes as well, covering topics including science experiments, creative projects, and more.

The Brooklyn Children’s Museum offers permanent exhibits, programs, and seasonal, temporary exhibitions and activities. These exhibits usually cover social justice and environmental conservation themes, allowing children to learn about essential subjects excitingly and engagingly.

Also, the museum has a cafe that offers healthy food to visitors of all ages and a rooftop garden where kids may study horticulture and sustainability. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum is an excellent place for families to spend a day together while enhancing their knowledge of and awareness of the world because of its emphasis on hands-on learning and exploration.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade: A Scenic Walk with Breathtaking Views

 

The quarter-mile Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a well-liked hangout for tourists and locals. When the sun sets, the crowds increase dramatically as the sky turns orange and pink, making for a stunning photo backdrop. One can see Governor’s Island and the Statue of Liberty from the promenade. 

The entire family will enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. This lovely balcony offers stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline. Benches surround the promenade so guests may unwind while admiring the view or having a picnic outside.

The promenade is in the Brooklyn Heights area, renowned for its magnificent brownstone homes and tree-lined lanes. It’s a beautiful spot to promenade and admire the area’s old houses, shops, and small cafes.


 

Final Impression 

Now that you have an idea about the many fun and exciting activities for families that Brooklyn offers.

Take your kids to some of Brooklyn’s most significant tourist attractions this summer to make lifelong memories. With its colorful neighborhoods, rich culture, and infinite opportunities for fun and adventure, Brooklyn is a location that will delight both kids and adults.

Read Next:

12 Things to do in Queens, NY

8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

 

The post Exploring Brooklyn with Kids this Summer: The Best Places to Visit appeared first on Mommy Travels.

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11 Best Museums in Manhattan https://www.mommytravels.net/best-museums-in-manhattan/ Sat, 18 Mar 2023 18:22:40 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=39433 New York City is home to 83 museums, and Manhattan has some of the best of them. The best thing about these museums is that you can find exhibits about anything or any topic that interests you, whether it is music, film, or animals. 

11 Best Museums in Manhattan

Whether you are an art buff who wants to discover some cool art or want to learn more about the world, these museums in Manhattan will show you all the different sides of NYC:

Metropolitan Museum of ArtMetropolitan Museum of Art

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, also known as ‘The Met”, is one of the best museums in New York City. It is also the largest art museum in the country, the fifth largest in the world, and the most visited in NYC, with an average of 6 million visitors per year. Its location at Central Park also gives the museum a commanding presence that attracts people from all around the world. 

The Met museum was founded in 1870 and currently features more than 2 million art pieces spanning 5000+ years which visitors can explore through the 17 departments. You will find great pieces of work like the Vincent Van Gogh self-portrait, Washington’s Crossing the Delaware’, and Bronze Age artifacts from China. Visitors will also find works of various famous artists, including Picasso and Georgia O’Keefe. 

New York Transit Museum New York Transit Museum 

New York Transit Museum is one of the most famous museums in New York. It documents the robust transportation and subway station of NYC, and visitors will find displays of cars dating back to 1903 and photographs documenting the evolution of the subway system. Visitors can also walk through the subway, get on the vintage trains, and sit inside an old NYC bus. 

Tenement MuseumTenement Museum

Tenement Museum documents the history of working-class immigrants during the 19th and 20th centuries. This museum also preserves the tenement buildings, the small buildings that housed different immigrant families (almost 15 thousand people from 20 nations) on the Lower East Side. Visitors to the Tenement Museum can tour the building to learn more about the lives and conditions of the immigrants who lived there between the 1860s and 1980s. This museum offers an eye-opening experience because you can not tour the cramped living spaces and view the personal belongings of past immigrants without getting a glimpse of their life. 

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space MuseumIntrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

The Intrepid Sea, Air, & Space museum offers a view into the military and maritime history of the United States. This museum is considered one of the best aviation museums in the world and features machines, engines, weapons, and other military vessels of the sea and sky. A guided tour will take you through the extensive collection of military equipment like WW11 fighter planes, NASA space shuttle Enterprise, and supersonic jets. 

The Museum of the City of New YorkThe Museum of the City of New York

Located on the Upper East Side, this museum documents New York’s history and people through different exhibits and curated collections. The Museum of the City of New York has over 1.5 million pieces of furniture, decorative objects, cultural artifacts, photographs, paintings, and manuscripts. You will learn about a wide range of topics related to New York, including food, politics, history, and culture of the beautiful city through the artwork in the museum. 

The Museum of Modern ArtThe Museum of Modern Art

The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is considered one of the best art museums not only in New York but also in the entire world. You will find different works of art, including contemporary American art featuring paintings, photography, electronic media, sculpture, and exceptional designs. Some of the most iconic masterpieces in this gallery include Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’, Dali’s “The Persistence of Memory”, and Andy Warhol’s Campbell Soup Cans. You will also find works of other modern artists like Picasso, Rousseau, and Frida Kahlo. 

Asides from the beautiful work of art, MoMa also offers opportunities for fun in summer with art parties, exclusive art installations, and outdoor music. If you are here in summer, we recommend you attend the party for beautiful musical performances. You can also grab a book or souvenir at the gift shop.

American Museum of Natural HistoryMuseum of Natural History NYC

One of the top museums in New York is the American Museum of Natural History, featuring exhibits that showcase the history and progression of the natural world. You will find more than 30 million scientific collections, including fossils, minerals, animals, meteorites, and rocks. The museum features a permanent collection of different types of art, including interactive exhibits, dioramas, and impressive installations. 

Visitors will find the massive dinosaur bones, the 94-foot-long blue whale, and over 5000 minerals from 98 countries interesting. It’s a perfect museum for anyone, especially kids, to learn more about our amazing planet and world. 

Whitney Museum of American ArtWhitney Museum of American Art

This museum is dedicated to Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney and focuses on modern and contemporary works like paintings, sculptures, and photographs by renowned American artists. The Whitney Museum boasts over 25,000 art pieces from over 3700 artists, including Edward Hopper, Mickalene Thomas, and Willem de Kooning. Aside from the amazing collection of works, the Whitney Museum of American Art offers fantastic views of the Hudson River and the Meatpacking District. The museum is also very gorgeous with its one-of-a-kind architecture, outside patios, and the handful of terraces where you can take in the epic views of New York.  

The Frick MuseumThe Frick Museum

The Frick museum currently at Madison Avenue is one of the best NYC museums to learn about European art history. This museum was founded by Henry Clay Frick in 1835 and features work from famous European artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, Titian, and Goya. The Frick collection also features the Old Master paintings and delightful European decorative arts..

Solomon R. Guggenheim MuseumSolomon R. Guggenheim Museum

The Guggenheim Museum sits on the West Side of Upper Manhattan, and it’s majorly known for its rotating collections and temporary exhibits. Visitors to this museum will enjoy the special exhibitions of artists like Marina Abramovic, Jean Michel Basquiat, Kandinsky, and Camille Pissarro.

One of the most amazing things about this museum is its Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, a spiral shape design that allows visitors to view the artworks in a continuous loop until they reach the top. Visitors can also view from the top and make their way down in spiral paths to view the sculptures, paintings, and photographs. While you are here, you can swing by the Wright Cafe for a hearty meal and drink. 

Museum of the Moving Image

Museum of the Moving Image

Museum of the Moving Image

Museum of Moving Image features arts and exhibits documenting the history, technique, and technology in film, television, and digital media. This museum features about 130,000 old Hollywood relics, including the earliest projectors used in the film industry. Visitors will also find exhibitions devoted to legends like Barry Jenkins and film screenings that show occasionally. 

Bottom Line

A visit to a good museum is always a great way to spend your day; luckily, Manhattan has a  handful of really good museums. One of the best ways to explore the great museums in Manhattan is by hitting several museums in one day!

Read Next:

NYC in a Weekend: Everything to Do

3 Day NYC Itinerary with Teens

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12 Things to do in Queens, NY https://www.mommytravels.net/things-to-do-in-queens/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 17:23:07 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=38906 Queens is home to great museums, beautiful parks, nice restaurants, and attraction sites like the New York Hall of Science. Plan the most exciting trip to this New York borough with our list of some of the best things to do: 

Admire Art at the Socrates Sculpture Park and Noguchi Museum Socrates Sculpture Park

Sculpture Park was formed after an American sculptor, Mark di Suvero, repurposed an abandoned landfill into a museum. This museum features art and works from famous artists, and it’s currently the only outdoor space that displays art in New York. You will also find giant sculptures built on-site by talented artists, and you can even stay around to ask the sculptors questions about their work. 

A block away from the Socrates Sculpture Park is the Noguchi Museum, where you will find the works of Japanese American artist Isamu Noguchi. The museum boasts excellent paintings, sculptures, and an outdoor garden with the artist’s best works.

Take Pictures With Unisphere at Flushing Meadows Corona Park

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the largest park in Queens and took center stage during the World Fair in 1964. This park features many attractions and recreational areas, including a theatre, museum, zoo, and the New York Hall of Science. This park also offers opportunities for fun outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating. 

One of the park’s main attractions is the Unisphere, a 140-foot high steel, representing the structure of the earth and starring in the famous 1997 film, Men in Black. Join other visitors to take stunning pictures with the Unisphere while you’re at this park. 

Enjoy Nature at Queens Botanical GardenQueens Botanical Garden

Queens Botanical Garden is a 39-acre of 25 gardens, including a herb garden, rose garden, and bee garden. This beautiful garden is located on the main street and also features a wedding garden with blooms that date back to the 20th century. Couples can book the gazebo at the wedding garden for nuptial celebrations. The garden also has an art gallery and arboretum and is a perfect destination for nature lovers. 

Learn New Things at the New York Hall of ScienceNew York Hall of Science

New York Hall of Science was built in 1964 to make science fun and more approachable for people. This museum is an interactive, hands-on science and technology center featuring over 400 exhibits on physics, chemistry, and biology. There’s a Mathematica exhibit that features interactive displays aimed at simplifying mathematics. New York Hall of Science also offers training and programs like creating experiments in the Design Labs and watching 3D films on nature.

Tour the Home of Louis ArmstrongHome of Louis Armstrong

This residence in Queens used to be the home of Jazz legend Louis Armstong after his retirement in the late 1960s. The house is open to visitors who want to tour the interior of his home and explore the displays of his personal collections. This home-turned-museum comprises 1,500 recordings, 86 scrapbooks, five trumpets, 5,000 photographs, and about 100 awards. Visitors here will also enjoy film screenings, exhibits, musical performances, and lectures about the trumpeter’s life. 

Browse Through Displays at Queens MuseumsQueens Museums

Most of the attractions in Queens were built for the World’s Fair, and that includes the Queens Museum. This beautiful museum features displays from the 1964 World Fair, including the big panorama of New York City in 1992. This miniature display of the city features 895,000 buildings and 100 bridges. It’s a spectacular display!

You will also find other art displays, including 10,000 permanent displays and famous pieces related to art, design, and architecture. Queens Museum also hosts educational programs, workshops, and events for visitors. 

Stroll Through the Rockaways

Sunset on the boardwalk (48067690428).jpg

By spurekarSunset on the boardwalk, CC BY 2.0, Link

Rockaway Peninsula is home to Rockaway Park, Rockaway Beach, and Rockaway Beach Boardwalk, all known as the Rockaways. You can hang out at Rockaway Beach, the largest urban beach in the USA where you can take a swim, enjoy a tan, or try to surf the waters. When you’re done, explore the recreational facilities at the Park, where you can enjoy games of hockey, handball, basketball, and skating. You can also go to the Boardwalk, where you can enjoy stunning views and local food at the restaurants.  

Visit Alley Pond Park

Alley Pond Environmental Center building.jpg

By Jllm06Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Alley Pond Park is the second largest park in Queens, and here you will find the Alley Pond Giant said to have sprouted about 400 years ago. The tree is the oldest and biggest tree in Queens, with a height of 133 feet. Visitors can enjoy rope courses and stroll the walking trails that take you over stunning views of the forest, tidal, meadows, and wetlands. Alley Pond Park is also filled with games courts, sports fields, playgrounds, and barbecue areas, making it a great place to visit. 

See a Movie at the Museum of the Moving Image

ExcorcistPuppet.jpg

By Pollack man34Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

One of the best things to do in Queens is visiting this stunning Museum of the Moving Image. Located in Astoria, this museum is a significant site for film and television. Moving Image features displays of movie equipment dating back to the 1800s and video games from the 20th century. This museum also shows movie screenings, and about 400 movies of different genres are played in the in-house theater every year. If you are here, you should enjoy one of the movies showing. 

Have Beer at Bohemian Hall and Beer GardenBohemian Hall and Beer Garden

Founded in 1919, Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is one of the oldest beer halls in New York. Here, you will find numerous beer taps offering Czech beer and spacious picnic tables where you can enjoy a menu of delicious Czech and Slovak cuisines. 

Enjoy Delicious Meals at Arepa LadyArepa Lady

Arepa Lady used to be a street food joint that initially opened in 2014 before becoming a restaurant and moving to its permanent site in 2018. This people’s favorite restaurant serves savory arepa and other dishes like empanadas, patacones (fried plantains), burgers, chuzo, and others. If you’re here in the borough, we recommend you come here for a fantastic dining experience. 

Bottom Line:

Queens is blessed with so many attractions making it one of the best New York boroughs to visit. While in New York, you should spend a day or two touring the different activities, museums, and landmarks in Queens. 

Read Next:

Brooklyn, New York Travel Guide

New York City Travel Guide

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8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC https://www.mommytravels.net/best-rooftop-pools-in-nyc/ Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:56:08 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=38517 New York is known as the city that never sleeps, with endless entertainment opportunities and things to do. In saying that, you’ll need some downtime every now and then, and what better place than a rooftop pool right in the heart of the city!

With the hot summer days quickly approaching, we’ve created this guide on where to find the best rooftop pools in NYC!

Let’s jump right in!

Overview of the 8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

Most rooftop pools in New York are located within upscale hotels or private buildings.

However, there are some well-maintained pools allowing access to outside guests with a day pass. That is a great alternative for those living in New York or staying in another hotel, so we will note rooftop pools with day passes on this list!

For the best experience, we suggest you book a night in one of the hotels on this list. 

Royalton Park Avenue HotelRoyalton Park Avenue Hotel

The rooftop pool of Royalton Park Avenue, with its glass barriers, has one of the best views in the city. It is located on the 20th floor of the hotel, right in the heart of Manhattan, with an unobstructed view of the Empire State Building. 

The rooftop pool is heated and can be enjoyed by hotel guests from mid-April until mid-November. You can grab a drink from the rooftop bar between dips and relax on the pool loungers as you soak in the sun.

Royalton Park Avenue Hotel is located right next to the 28th street subway station.

Check the rates and availability at Royalton Park Avenue here

ModernHaus SoHo HotelModernHaus SoHo

The saltwater pool at ModernHaus SoHo Hotel is one of the largest rooftop pools in NYC. The panoramic view of the downtown New York skyline from the 18th-floor pool is incredible.

Guests can enjoy the pool, sip on cocktails at the rooftop bar or hop to the gym within the hotel.

The rooftop pool is exclusively for hotel guests during the week, but on the weekend afternoons, it’s open to the public for guests of Jimmy, the rooftop bar. Jimmy is a popular nightlife spot, so it gets pretty busy on the weekends. 

You’ll find ModernHaus SoHo Hotel two minutes from Canal St. subway station.

Check the rates and availability at ModernHaus SoHo Hotel here.

Margaritaville Resort Times SquareMargaritaville Times Square Pool

If you want to swim in a rooftop pool in Times Square, you’re lucky as Margaritaville Resort is the only open-air pool in Times Square. While it is not on the top floor of the building, it is high enough to be considered a rooftop pool.

The pool is open to outside visitors with a day pass, and it has a tropical oasis vibe in the heart of New York. Of course, you can enjoy a margarita or any other poolside drink from one of the 4 bars on site. Guests of the hotel can also use private fitness facilities.  

Margaritaville Resort is situated right next to the Times Square subway station. 

Check the rates and availability at Margaritaville Resort Times Square here

The William Vale HotelThe William Vale rooftop pool

At 60 ft long, the rooftop pool at The William Vale Hotel in Brooklyn is one of the biggest in the city. Maintained with high-quality pool equipment, this pristine pool overlooks the river and downtown New York.

The view at sunset is stunning – especially with a drink from the rooftop bar!

You’ll have to book a time slot at the pool even as a hotel guest. The pool is open to outside visitors with a day pass.

The hotel is located in Williamsburg, close to the bus station.

Check the rates and availability at The William Vale Hotel here

 

Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC HotelGansevoort Meatpacking NYC Hotel

The rooftop pool at Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC overlooks the Hudson river, one of the most tranquil views in the city. The pool is open to hotel guests only, despite the adjacent bar being open to the public.

Guests can enjoy lounging by the pool, sipping on cocktails from the rooftop bar and relaxing. The sunsets over the city are stunning from the rooftop deck.

The rooftop bar can get quite busy on the weekends, as it is open to the public, so it’s something to keep in mind if you’re coming with children. 

Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC is just a 5-minute walk from 14 Street/8 Avenue subway station.

Check the rates and availability at Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC Hotel here

The Dominick HotelThe Dominick Hotel

The rooftop pool of the Dominick Hotel is on the 7th floor, so not quite rooftop as the building is 46 stories high, but it still offers exceptional views of the city and a tranquil place to escape the crowds.

The pool is seasonal and not heated, so it’s something to keep in mind if you are visiting outside summer months. The hotel features a full-service spa and 4 restaurants on-site, so you don’t need to leave the hotel between dips.

The Dominick Hotel is located in SoHo, a short walk from Spring street subway station. 

Check the rates and availability at The Dominick Hotel here

Mr. Purple at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side

Located on the 15th floor of the building, the rooftop pool at Hotel Indigo has an amazing view of the New York skyline. You can enjoy a cocktail or a classic American dish in the rooftop bar/restaurant Mr. Purple.

While the pool is located within the hotel, it is managed by a third party, Mr Purple, so it is open to the public and only reserved for hotel guests at certain times during the week. 

The hotel is located a short walk from the 2nd Avenue subway station. 

Check the rates and availability at Hotel Indigo Lower East Side here

 

 
 
 
 
 
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A post shared by MR. PURPLE (@mrpurplenyc)


 

The Summer Club at Ravel HotelSummer Club at Raven Hotel

The Summer Club is a rooftop pool meets a beach bar type of place. Located on the top floor of the boutique Ravel Hotel, it is open to the public with a day pass. 

It is not a “relaxing by the pool” spot, as there is music and a DJ. However, those who want to feel like they are on a tropical vacation in the middle of the city will love it! Note that it is an adults-only pool.

You can book a cabana or find a spot on the pool loungers to relax and sip cocktails from the bar. Just like other clubs, it gets quite busy on the weekends, and you might wait in line for a while if you don’t reserve in advance!

The Summer Club is located 10 minutes from the 21 St-Queensbridge subway station.

Check rates and availability for Raven Hotel here

Summary: 8 Best Rooftop Pools In NYC

That concludes this list of the best rooftop pools in New York that should be on your radar this summer. 

If you’re looking for a pool party, there are many rooftop pools with day passes in the city that quite literally never sleeps.

Whether you’re just spending a weekend in the city or you live in the Big Apple, there is no better way to spend the summer than relaxing next to the pool. Get away from the crowds and noise of the city and simply relax.

Read Next:

The Most Instagrammable Food in NYC

NYC with Tweens

8-best-rooftop-pools-in-nyc

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11 Best Places to Eat in New York City https://www.mommytravels.net/best-places-to-eat-in-new-york-city/ Wed, 16 Nov 2022 12:31:43 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=35409 From the best New York City pizza (arguably the world’s best) to New York City restaurants with TV ties to bagels that you’ll still be dreaming of weeks later, there’s no shortages of good food in the city that never sleeps!

On this whistlestop tour through the best places to eat in New York City, you’ll learn exactly where to spend your hard-earned money on New York’s best culinary creations and local cooking.

Work up an appetite walking around the city and getting involved in the hustle and bustle and then check out the best restaurants in New York City to satisfy those cravings. 

John’s PizzaJohns Pizza

The #1 pizza in all of New York City is a point of contention among locals and visitors, but our pick for the best pizza is John’s Pizza (fun New York fact: New York pizza is characterized by its thin base that’s still soft enough to fold!)

John’s of Bleecker Street was founded in 1929 by a man named John Sasso and today they serve up hundreds of coal-fired brick oven pizzas every single day.

They say the secret’s in the sauce, but whatever the secret is, they won’t reveal it: you’ll have to head to John’s yourself to order your favorite (we recommend the “Sasso” which has pecorino romano, oregano, and black pepper baked into the pizza).

There’s usually a line here with no reservations allowed, but it’s well worth it. 

Playa BettysPlaya Betty's

California fare might not be the first thing on your mind when you head to New York City, but there is nothing better than some Mexican and Californian grub on a winter day in the city as the restaurant is decorated in vibrant colors with lots of natural light and beachy vibes.

You’ll find it on the Upper West Side, and while the guacamole is a must-try classic, it’s really the “Hang 10 Burrito” with chopped steak, jack cheese, and sour cream that’s the star of the show. 

Carlos Bakery

Ever heard of the show “Cake Boss?” Carlos, the owner of the original Carlos Bakery in New Jersey, expanded into NYC and offers up some of the best cakes you’ll find in Manhattan.

There are a few different locations, but whichever one you choose, you can’t go wrong with the giant slices of the vanilla funfetti cake, the red velvet cake, or the Oreo cake.

They all sell other sweet treats like donuts and cookies, so if you’re looking for an after dinner dessert in NYC (or if dessert is the dinner, we won’t judge), then this is one of the best places to eat in NYC. 

You can simply order at the counter and then take your cake to go as there isn’t a sit-in area, so this is one of the best things to do in New York City alone as well if you just want to eat some cake and chill in the park. 

Tavern on the GreenTavern on the Green

Located in Central Park, Tavern on the Green is an upscale restaurant that almost has an iconic status among visitors and locals alike.

As soon as you step inside, you’ll love the sophisticated lounge with warm colors and comfy sofas, but the real treat comes in the dining room that looks out to the main courtyard.

The food is absolutely incredible (and worth the price tag for the experience), but if you really want to maximize your visit here, make sure to come during Christmas time when the gorgeous Christmas tree and other decorations truly transform it into a Winter Wonderland. This is just one of many fun places to eat in NYC during Christmas. 

Loeb Boathouse

Another Central Park restaurant, Loeb Boathouse is a fine dining establishment (though it also offers a casual take-out area) with stunning views over the lake.

You can watch people boating on the lake in the summer months while enjoying everything from skillet chicken to porkchops to cauliflower steaks for the veggies. 

The service is attentive and friendly and when you’re finished you can get some pictures out by the lake and see if you can spot the turtles and fish swimming around. 

Gourmet Bagel

You’ve got to get a bagel while in New York, and Gourmet Bagel is the absolute best place for breakfast in the city if you want a classic New York bagel. 

It’s on Lexington Avenue, so very centrally located, and they’ve got everything from cranberry bagels to cinnamon raisin bagels to pumpernickel bagels and every single spread you can possibly think of.

Make it even more interesting and order a bagel sandwich with freshly cooked egg, cheese, and bacon.

There’s nothing better. 

Little OwlLittle Owl

If you’re familiar with the hit TV show “FRIENDS,” then you’ll be a big fan of the Little Owl.

Why?

It’s right under the apartment used as the exterior shot for Monica’s apartment in FRIENDS! Yes, the apartment. 

While the restaurant itself isn’t related to the show, it’s got a fantastic menu featuring delicious meats, pastas, and veggie dishes and the location can’t be beat if you’re going to be FRIENDS location scouting. 

There’s also an outdoor dining option if the weather is good and you want to eat in the sunshine and fresh air. 

Cookshop

In the heart of Chelsea, Cookshop is one of those restaurants that both locals and visitors love. Serving farm fresh food all day long, you can stop by whenever works best for you, but the brunch is definitely the star of the show.

Dig into the cooksho peg sandwich with fontina, onion jam, and chile, or have enough cinnamon buns to keep you full all day long. 

The Huevos Rancheros are a great Mexican inspired option, while the Scramble helps you keep it simple if you just want some perfectly cooked eggs on toast with some extra elevation. 

BoranBoran

Venture over to Carroll Gardens in Brooklyn for an authentic Thai restaurant that offers both dine-in and take-out.

The dine-in area is relatively small and intimate, which makes it a great experience when visiting with friends so you can actually hear each other instead of battling the sounds of a busy restaurant.

The Pad Thai is a must-try, and of course the authentic Thai curries are developed with the freshest ingredients and with the love of a family-owned restaurant. 

Café Cluny

This French-American restaurant is a fascinating take on both cuisines, and the West Village location makes it a popular place for celebrity spotting.

Try the French Onion Soup as an appetizer, and then move on to the Cluny Burger on a brioche bun.

The Lobster Rolls are also incredible, and the vegetarians in the group have plenty of options including Macaroni & Cheese, purple sticky rice bowls, and even a grilled cheese with gruyere. 

The Smith

The Smith has four locations across NYC: Nomad, Lincoln Square, Midtown, and the East Village.

It’s a popular gathering place for friends, coworkers, and families who want American cuisine in a funky and sophisticated environment.

It’s also a great place to eat in NYC if you’ve got a variety of tastes in your group, as you can get everything from oyster platters to roasted salmon to vegetable bibimbap to pot pie.

Steaks, mac & cheese, and large salads with marinated shrimp or grilled chicken are also popular options, and the smashed potato side will have the whole table talking. 

 

 

Read Next:

16 FREE Things to Do in NYC

The Most Instagrammable Food in NYC

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo, another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO.

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

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10 Exciting Water Sports in New York https://www.mommytravels.net/water-sports-in-new-york/ Fri, 03 Jun 2022 14:48:34 +0000 https://www.mommytravels.net/?p=33407 New York is a state filled with many beautiful bodies of water. Its borders share some of the most impressive aquatic destinations in the world! Parts of the famous Niagara Falls and Lake Ontario reside in the state. If you want to spend a fun summer family vacation in New York, you will always find somewhere everyone will love. From the Long Island Sound to the Hudson River, there is a perfect place for any water activity you might want to do! Here are some water sports you can do in New York.

1. Open Water Swimmingbeach at Coney Island

Brighton Beach by Coney island is a great spot if you want to practice some open water swimming. The Coney Island & Brighton Beach Open Water Swimmers (CIBBOWS) is a non-profit organization that conducts weekly group swims from Brighton Beach to Coney Island. 

Staten Island and Queens also have popular open water swimming locations. Lake George hosts open water swim events as well. If you want to learn more about the open water swimming events, New York Open Water, Inc. organizes many marathons and short swims.

2. Scuba Diving

east river scuba 

If you want to scuba dive, New York will not disappoint you! Montauk is a popular tourist destination on the eastern end of Long Island. It is most well-known for shark cage diving. Soft corals and endless fish also await your dives here. If you prefer exploring shipwrecks, Wreck Valley is the place to go. A 60-mile stretch from the north to the south of the Long Island, Wreck Valley is littered with hundreds of shipwrecks!

 

3. Surfingsurfing at Rockaways Beach

If you have the itch to surf, the Rockaways is the spot to satisfy that craving in New York! It is also the only beach where you can surf legally. Since the coast is heavily protected, there are strict rules that you need to know before you can surf. Some of them are: (1) you can only paddle between certain beach streets and (2) blasting loud music is not allowed. 

Even with all of these, the Rockaways remains an iconic surfing spot with a long-time surfing culture! The most famous surfing spot in the Rockaways is Beach 90th street. If you want to learn to ride the waves, go to Locals Surf School on Beach 69th street.

4. Fly Fishing

New York is the birthplace of fly fishing in America, so you can be sure to experience the best fly fishing in the United States! You will be able to fish for trout, salmon, pike, and bass in various rivers across New York. Delaware River and Salmon River are great fishing spots to look out for. The best time for trout fishing in New York is usually from June until the end of September. Going later in the year, such as in late September, can help you avoid the worst of the pesky summer bugs. 

5. ParasailingLake George

If you want to go parasailing in New York, give Lake George a go! Lake George is a town in the Adirondack Mountains, sitting on the lake of the same name. Lush forests and mountains surround its tranquil waters, which are perfect for any outdoor water activities. It also has many beautiful hiking trails for the whole family!

If you are going to parasail, pick a company that will give you professional services and a safe ride! Finding a company that is part of the Professional Association of Parasail Operators is a way to instill confidence in your parasailing adventure. Parasail Nation is one such operator.

6. Rowing

You will be pleased to know that rowing is alive and thriving in the state of New York. Until now, there are numerous rowing associations and clubs that take advantage of the many bodies of water in the state. One of them is the Harlem River Community Rowing, a 15-year-old organization that offers free rowing in the Harlem River!

7. Kayaking

If you want to kayak, you don’t need to go far from the Big Apple itself. Numerous clubs and communities are open for both tourists and regulars! The North Brooklyn Boat Club is an outfitter you can rely on when you are in New York City. They operate in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, usually offering public paddles on weekends! Check out their calendar for a definite date. 

Leaving New York City, the Hudson River Gorge is perfect for both rafters and kayakers. Kayak Hudson is an outfitter that provides guided tours, gear rentals, and paddling lessons across Westchester County. New York is filled with over 7,600 lakes, ponds, and reservoirs, so you’ll always find a place to go when searching for kayaking destinations near me.

8. Water Skiing

Waterskiing is a great way to get a full-body workout. Lake George is the place to go if you’re looking for a great water skiing experience in New York! The Adirondack Water Ski and Wakeboard School on Lake George is one of the best places for beginners and experienced water skiers. Certified instructors and top-of-the-line equipment provide a safe and exciting environment on the lake!

9. Whitewater RaftingAdirondack mountains

Whitewater rafting is an exciting team-building exercise or a bonding moment with your family! The Hudson River in the Adirondack mountains has rapids of varying difficulty, making it perfect for rafting enthusiasts of any skill level. The level of difficulty of the rapids can change with the seasons. The river can sport challenging Class IV and Class V rapids in spring and calmer Class II and Class III rapids in mid-summer. 

The Hudson River is perhaps one of the best whitewater rafting trips in the United States! If you are feeling more adventurous, Beaver Brook Outfitters provides overnight rafting trips along the Hudson River! You might want to bring your best kayak lights in case you get caught on the water after sunset or during the night at camp. 

10. Sailing

Sailing is a great way to experience the tranquility of nature. Reading the wind to control your sails as you travel across the water is a gratifying experience! Lake Ontario is a beautiful body of water to the north, shared by New York and Ontario. Though it is the smallest of the Great Lakes, the breathtaking landscapes and communities of Lake Ontario are a thrill to explore. 

A little south is a smaller lake called the Cayuga Lake where beginners can get sailing lessons from the Merrill Family Sailing Center. The Merrill Family Sailing Center has 14’ sailing dinghies to 26’ keelboats. Cornell Community Sailing at the center is open to the public and offers sailing lessons for sailors of any skill level!

New York allows you to do a variety of water sports, each with its active community and outfitters. If you travel to New York looking for some fun in the water, you won’t be disappointed. Visiting the state will surely be a trip that will stay in your mind forever.

Guest Author: Michael fell in love with the great outdoors when he was still a child. His early adventures and misadventures drove him to try a wide variety of water sports, not only in his hometown, France but also around the world.

Read Next:

New York City Travel Guide

Finger Lakes Travel Guide

 

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo, another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO.

Rent Clothes

Rent clothes for your trip with Travel Style Expert for only $50 a month! The first 30 days are free!

Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations.

Rent a Car or Take a Lyft

More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended but doesn’t cost you any extra. Please check out our disclosure policy for more details. Thank you for your support!

The post 10 Exciting Water Sports in New York appeared first on Mommy Travels.

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15 Cool Hotel Rooms for Kids https://www.mommytravels.net/cool-hotel-rooms-for-kids/ https://www.mommytravels.net/cool-hotel-rooms-for-kids/#comments Thu, 03 Mar 2022 00:11:01 +0000 http://www.mommytravels.net/?p=10957 Have you stayed in a super cool hotel room your kids loved?

We have not stayed in very many hotels with special themed rooms other than at Great Wolf Lodge. Going into next year we are hoping to stay in some of these unique rooms found around the world. Here are 15 cool hotel rooms for kids we are hoping to stay in next year.

15 Cool Hotel Rooms for KidsThe Pineapple at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana

The Pineapple at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana 

Inspired by the famous pineapple under the sea, famed home to SpongeBob SquarePants, this sumptuous one-of-a-kind villa is the signature dwelling at Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana – the world’s first and only Pineapple.

With 2,292 square feet of incredible indoor and outdoor living areas, including a garden, patio, signature infinity pool, and private butler caters to your every whim, the 2 bedroom / 3 bath villa is a palatial paradise in the Dominican Republic.

Rates at the Pineapple start at $3,800 per night, including the Gourmet Inclusive Experience of all gourmet meals served a la carte, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service and full-service concierge. Granted, at that price we will never stay here!

inside of The Pineapple punta cana

Inside the Pineapple

 

Eloise Suite at The Plaza New York Plaza

Eloise Suite at the Plaza Hotel in NYC

Eloise Suite at the Plaza Hotel in NYC

Outrageous pink and black décor by Betsy Johnson adorns the walls of the 625 sq. ft. suite on the “tippy-top floor” of the Plaza Hotel.

Named for The Plaza’s famous resident in Kay Thompson’s Eloise books, the room features everything Eloise. From Eloise-themed tea for two at The Palm Court to Eloise-approved books and toys, kids will be absolutely delighted by the over-the-top suite that offers guest a day in the life of the precocious little heroine.

And yes, it is expensive to stay here.

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UFO at the Treehotel in Harads, Sweden 

UFO at TreehotelUFO at Treehotel

UFO at TreehotelUFO at Treehotel

Kids are immediately transported to space in this out-of-this-world treehouse in the woods. Fashioned as a UFO, the intergalactic suite is built for two adults and three children, with a living room, in-room bathroom, and two large separate beds.  1..2..3…ready for takeoff to every child’s dream!

Wizard Chambers at the Georgian House Hotel

Wizarding Chambers

Immerse your child in magic and marvel in The Wizard Chamber, created for Harry Potter aficionados in London. Concealed behind a bookcase door, the Gothic décor evokes the magical style of Hogwarts lodgings. Each room features faux castle details such as stained glass windows, stone walls, cauldrons, four-poster beds hung with velvet curtains, and an abundance of other curious artifacts.

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Legoland Beach Retreat in Winter Haven, Florida 

Legoland Beach Retreat in Winterhaven, Florida

Legoland Beach Retreat

At the Legoland Beach Retreat, guests have the opportunity of staying in their own beach-themed bungalow decorated with whimsical LEGO®décor inside and out. Designed to look like it’s made of giant Lego bricks, each bungalow room can sleep up to five people with one king-sized bed for parents and a small nook that has bunk beds for the kids.

In addition, each bungalow is centered around an expansive outdoor play area, all within view of the bungalow’s shaded patios, where parents can put their feet up, kick back, and relax while the kids play.

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Hotel De Glace

Hotel De Glace, located just outside of Quebec City, Quebec

Hotel De Glace, located just outside of Quebec City, Quebec

Located just outside of Quebec City, Quebec is one of the coolest kid hotel rooms available according to my friend Sarah. As long as you are okay with sleeping in a -3 to -5 degree room. In past years, the Hotel De Glace won the hearts of little kids across the world with their Frozen suite. The animators of the film actually stayed at the hotel when drawing up plans for Elsa’s ice castle. 

Other incredible themed suites have included The Great Gatsby and the iconic Canadian Hockey Suite. The hotel melts away each year and so with each Winter comes a brand new selection of suites.

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel

Portofino Bay hotel kids Descipable Me suite

Portofino Bay hotel kids Descipable Me suite

Loews Portofino Bay Hotel at Universal Orlando has Despicable Me suites. We stayed at a Universal hotel for the first time, but we stayed over at Cabana Bay where the rooms were 1950’s throwback rooms. The next time we are at Universal we plan to stay in one of these despicable me rooms. They look awesome!

The Palms Pink Suite

Hot Pink Suite at The Palms

Hot Pink Suite at The Palms

Hot Pink Suite at The Palms in Las Vegas. I love Vegas and I take my kids there fairly often. One of these days we are going to stay in this hot pink suite! Granted, I typically would not recommend staying here with the kids. The Palms would be better for a girl’s trip. Designed by the famous “Happy Chic” designer Jonathan Adler, this 2,350-square-foot suite is the ultimate bachelorette party pad. The suite’s dreamy décor features corseted, lace-up chairs, custom art, and terrazzo bubble floors.

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Space theme room at Fantasyland

Space theme room at Fantasyland

Fantasyland Hotel

Space-themed rooms in Edmonton, Canada. One of my friends stayed here a while back and it looked awesome! The room has one queen bed and capsule bunk beds for the kids. Plus, there is a two-person Jacuzzi. They have an assortment of other themed rooms including a Hollywood theme and Arabian themed.

 

The Shire of MontanaThe Shire of Montana

This is a Hobbit-themed house. This Hobbit House offers visitors an interesting underground lodging experience full of imagination. Inside the house isn’t really that cool, but the outside is neat.

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Hilton Mexico City Santa Fe

Hilton Mexico City Santa Fe

This Hilton has an over the top Barbie suite. The Barbie-themed room includes a collection of rare Barbie dolls from the past six decades as well as a life-sized DreamCamper in which children can play dress-up and spend the night. As for adults, the adult room leverages more of a nostalgic vibe and is decorated with collector-related elements. There’s a pink food menu too, which includes heart-shaped pizzas, gnocchi in pink sauce, red velvet treats, and strawberry ice cream at the hotel’s restaurant, MADERA. The Barbie Room experience will start at $189 per night on weekdays and $229 per night on weekends.

Grand Mirage ResortGrand Mirage Resort Bali

The Grand Mirage Resort in Bali has some interesting rooms that kids will like, including rooms with bunk beds and themed rooms like this girl’s room. For the kids, Grand Mirage Bali Resort features kids mini water park, pool slides, indoor playground, kids club, kids e-lounge, foam party and many more. 

Blue Hills RanchBlue Hills Ranch pirate cabins in Waco Texas

Just 15 minutes outside of Waco, TX you will find a Blue Hills Ranch, a 150-acre resort with green rolling hills, lakes, giraffes, zebras, otters, kangaroos, and more. Here you can rent one of their themed cabins, like the Hook cabin or the Kraken cabin pictured here. Both the animal encounters and the cabins have to be booked well in advance. 

Iniala Beach House

Iniala Thailand

Iniala Beach House in Takua Thung, Thailand has some seriously cool rooms for those traveling with kids. You cannot book the room shown, but your kids can stay in it. It’s the kid’s club which is a kid’s hotel and should they want to they can stay the night. 

Graduate New York “Big” Suite

Graduate Roosevelt Big Suite Located on the sixth floor of Graduate New York, the Loft Suite has been fully transformed into a toy-filled suite just as Tom Hanks’ character, Josh Baskin does to his NYC apartment in the film. Sleeping up to six guests, making for the perfect family getaway, The Loft Suite provides iconic childhood toys and games complete with a real Zoltar machine and themed bunk beds. A life-sized floor piano and mini trampoline are also included, and the most nostalgic part? Guests can watch Big on an old TV via VHS.  

This list could keep going. We’ve stayed at Aulani in Oahu and we all love it. The rooms were not themed out, but they were nice and we enjoyed it. Same for a hotel in Portland, Riverplace. It was not themed but is one of our favorite places I’ve ever stayed in.

Read Next:

23 Best All Inclusive Resorts for Families

Top 9 Destinations for Teens and Tweens in the United States

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. 

Get Travel Insurance

Unfortunately, there are a lot of things that can go wrong on any trip. Be prepared for the worst with travel insurance. We use Travelex or Safety Wing (often cheaper).

Book Flights

I use Skyscanner to find flights. I use it so much, I wrote an entire guide to finding cheap flights with Skyscanner! My second favorite site to find flights is Momondo, another great site for finding cheap flights.

Book a Place to Stay

I recommend using Expedia.com or Hotels.com for most hotel bookings. I prefer to book directly with Marriott when I stay there because of their excellent military discount.

If you prefer staying in a vacation rental instead, I recommend VRBO.

Rent Clothes

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Choose Activities and Tours

To find great activities in any area I use Get Your Guide and Viator. If we are visiting a city with lots of popular attractions I always check CityPass and GoCard to see if they have discount cards available.

When I want to book a full-on multi-day tour I use TourRadar. They’ve got fantastic weekly deals. If I am going somewhere in Mexico or the Caribbean I use Apple Vacations.

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More often than not Lyft is cheaper than Uber. Use my Lyft link for an $18 credit! For a car rental in any country, I recommend Discover Cars.

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