Bank Street Books is a staple of the Upper West Side community. I often stop into this cozy shop and browse through the wonderful selection of books and educational toys. The staff is friendly and helpful. They host many author events, from Julia Alvarez, a Dominican-American author (How The Garcia Girls Lost Their Accent) whose novels and poetry I love to other authors of children's books and shows. This is one of those neighborhood gems that never looses it’s luster.

Small park, great for resting and drinking a shake from the very first Shake Shack of the city located right in the park. Home to many family friendly concerts and events in the Summer, and neighbor to the famous Flat Iron building. Near lots of great eateries and shops.

I recently went (on a date night) to the Metropolitan Opera House to see one of their Christmas shows, Hansel and Gretel. I would never take my younger boys (3 and 4) to the opera, they would be horrid...but I think my 12 year old would love it and appreciate the beauty of the opera house.

This is truly a wonderful experience. It is so grand and breathtaking, and the programs are wonderful as well.

If you are late for a show, or if you must exit the performance hall in between shows note you cannot enter till intermission. This is why it's difficult to go with little ones. Hansel and Gretel was magical, truly wonderful. They also have a digital screen in front of each seat to help you read what they are singing (great for foreign language operas). There is a restaurant where you can grab a drink or food before shows or during intermission (reservation required). The crystal chandeliers, velvet walls, rounding staircases, grand orchestra, amazing singing, all adds to an incredible experience for a child. I highly recommend it.

Groovaloo, the performance going on for a limited time only (till January 3), is based on the troupe’s true-to-life experiences as told by the dancers who lived them. The intertwined stories chronicle the struggles, hopes and triumphs of the dancers and tell the story of their journey to date through amazing dance, energetic beats, and the power and beauty of hip-hop and freestyle.

Steven “BoogieMan” Stanton, a talented choreographer, dancer, and actor, and an original member of the group, has a personal story of his own which serves to bring to height the overall message of the show: Life isn’t always choreographed, sometimes you have to freestyle.

I think the show is one that will be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age. The music is fun, the dancing is spectacular, the message powerful. I highly recommend it.

We went last year right after Thanksgiving. The ride out to Long island was great, and the tree selections were lovely. But the cider was $1.00 for a small cup, and no one helped carry our tree to our car. There also wasn't much of a gift shop. The cute shop next door had some awesome homemade fudge though. No bells and whistles, and sometimes, especially for Christmas, you want some. We loved our tree though, it was perfect.