NYC for out-of-towners with kids

A few blocks from my place, the museum has the largest dinosaur in the world. I was forlorn to learn that it is a replica (many museum dinosaurs are), but it's kind of cool because the neck of the dinosaur goes across multiple rooms. The Triceratops skulls are incredible to see. There are also many other exhibits worth a look: definitely check out the "Butterfly Vivarium" — great for kids (and pretty neat as an adult.)

Metropolitan zoo with 265 acres that harbors 10,000 animals in replicas of their native habitats. The best zoo in NYC. They have good seasonal activities too (Halloween, Christmas, etc).

Sprawling spot of 50 gardens, 30,000 trees & landmark glasshouse with rain forest & cactus displays. Near the zoo. Check out their seasonal activites as well.

Riverside Park is a gem of a park just to the left when you're walking out of my apartment building. Lesser known to tourists, it's suprisingly functional given its narrow size. I take Lili's dog (Nani) to the dog park and to "do her business". It's facing west, so I highly recommend a picnic in the evening during sunset (if the weather holds).

Part of Central Park, this is a heavily wooded, 36-acre section of Central Park with rocky outcroppings, laced with walking paths. While you tour Central Park, it's worth a visit to feel like you're not in the city — the closest thing to nature sanctuary we have as New Yorkers. There are a lot of bird watchers in the area also.

Popular park 30 feet above street level on an old rail line, with river & city views. This is one of the more famous landscape architecture projects in the world. It's definitely one of the more touristy options though and can get rather crowded.

This is a great rooftop bar in the Maet Museum (the "big" art museum in NYC which of course is also worth a visit). The photo below is a little misleading, you have a beautiful view of Central Park.

Old-school institution specializing in smoked fish, kosher meats, soups & other Jewish deli fare. This has the best smaoked salmon in the city (get the "Nova lox") — it's also a time capsule...it feels like you're in the 1950s when you go inside. I'm part Jewish and part Finnish, smoked fish is my happy place. More on the expensive side though.

Set within Central Park, this small zoo features penguins, sea lions, monkeys & a petting zoo. Not the best zoo, but it's easy and close by.

Kids' museum featuring a range of hands-on, educational & entertaining exhibits & activities. I haven't been here, but it's so close to me I figured I'd add it.

A kid-friendly annual cherry blossom festival, a Japanese garden & more, spread across 52 acres. Another one in Brooklyn, both are great. This one boasts a pretty cool bonsai tree exhibit.

I biked by these slides and envied not having them as a child. Impressive slide design in a big hill — also there's tons to do on Roosevelt Island during warmer months. Take the ferry over to get there.

"Home Alone 2": the famous hotel where it's filmed. One of my favorite movies from childhood.

I know it's far away, so may not be a "must see", but this is my favorite restaurant in the world. Maybe we went here on your last visit? You won't believe this, but it has both the best burger and the best pizza I've ever had. They don't let you customize the burger at all, nor should you. The best pizza is also called "The Emily" and its surprisingly a white pizza, which I'm usually not into. This ambiance is also notably Brooklyn. Nice date spot. Go further southeast to Franklin Ave area if you want to explore Crown Heights after (this was where I first lived in NYC, it's a younger crowd).

Family-run shop selling housemade cheese ravioli, flavored fettuccine & more since 1935. Just an old-fashioned italian pasta shop. Not necessary to go, but there aren't many more left like this.

Branch of the Metropolitan, showcasing medieval art in a French monastery overlooking the Hudson.

Little hideaway for Southern Italian specialties & diverse wines served amid a warm, intimate vibe. Great fresh-made pasta if you're near the Cloisters.

I like really cool libraries. this is the best reading room in NYC.

This is the garden by my place where a major scene from "You've Got Mail" was filmed (in the Upper West Side), if you're into that kind of thing.

Historic Greenwich Village concrete-&-green park known for its stately arch & prime people watching. Lots of history here and a pretty eclectic crowd. You will smell marijuana in the air so be mindful of that with children.

The closest I can get to a legitimate sauna in the city.

Another sauna option — East Village is very cool area with probably the best collection of restaurant options in the city.

Easy way to see the statue of liberty and get on the water for free.

Classic NYC slice. This is in the heart of Williamsburg, the "hipster" capital of the world. Not very kid friendly area though.

The Smithsonian's design collection & rotating exhibits are on display in this historic townhouse. Lesser known vs. other museums but I really like it.

This is some of the best Thai food I've ever had.

No-frills, cash-only burger counter hidden inside an upscale hotel. You may have to ask for how to get inside (it's kind of a "speakeasy" burger joint :D)

Cuban cooking & live Cuban music fuel the festive old-Havana vibe at this circa-1963 spot. A favorite for Lili and I before seeing a show nearby.

Just a delicious fried chicken and spam sandwich. Sounds gross, but it's great. More for a convenience stop. It's only $5 too.

Trendy cocktail bar in my neighborhood.

Jewish deli institution since 1908, known for smoked fish & not taking credit cards. Classic joint. Overpriced but it is delicious.

New York bagels are a hot topic, and these are the best. Get there early to avoid long lines.

This is a famous and historic grocery store — a little overrated but the whitefish salad is the best in the city.

This is where you can get the legendary "cronut" — may want to get there early.

West Village locals have depended on this counter-service pizzeria for quick slices since 1975. This is where you can get a classic New York Slice (gets rowdy in the nighttime).

Ramen dishes & pork buns are the lures at this popular East Village Japanese eatery. Great ramen, if you're into it.

Celebrated local sushi chain serving traditional rolls & sake in a chic, intimate space. Lunchtime omakase hits the spot.

Tiny no-frills space delivers live jazz bands & jam sessions. Best jazz club in the city. Can be hard to get into. Go to "Mezzrow" as a backup.

Famous comics are often in the lineup at this brick-walled comedy club with several shows nightly. This is the premier comedy club in NYC.

Intimate comedy club with a fun vibe featuring local comics, open-mike nights & Mexican eats. A decent backup option that's closer to me.

This is my favorite "cocktail" bar in NYC. This is their new location, which I haven't been to yet. Not exactly budget friendly though.

Since 1961, many famous artist have played at this iconic music club with nightly shows & cocktails. It's not all that great, but it's where Bob Dylan and bunch of artists got their start. A bit run-down, as it should be.