Atlantic City, NJ

Atlantic City, NJ

Ocean Resort Casino

I last visited Atlantic City about thirty years ago. And to tell you the truth, not much has changed. The boardwalk is pretty much the same as I remember. Steel Pier is like an amusement park on a dock with a ferris wheel and other rides that’s great for children…weather permitting of course. The boardwalk has some arcades, entries to other hotels and casinos, and a few grimy restaurants.

There is also an outlet mall (which is relatively new) if you want to go shopping. And of course, the Atlantic City staple is White House Subs, which has been opened since 1946 and frequented by many celebrities! You must stop here for an amazing sandwich at one point of your stay. Other than this, there’s really very little to do in Atlantic City unless you go during the summer and can actually go to the beach.

The big draw to AC is that it is less than a three hour drive from NYC (depending on traffic) and that the hotels are grand…which gives your children a sense that they’ve travelled somewhere extravagant. And in the winter, there is no better option than to stay at the brand new Ocean Resort Casino that is a Hyatt Hotel and just recently opened on the boardwalk. I’ve been told by a few that this hotel used to be the old Revel and just needed new management. The hotel amenities are fantastic, as are the rooms and views. The indoor/outdoor pool and jacuzzi outside (videos below) are phenomenal. The casino is decent. The spa is fabulous! It is definitely worth staying here for a couple nights with friends and family during a winter school break! But don’t expect to do much more outside the hotel.

For those who are strictly kosher, there are a couple of restaurants (both dairy and meat) within a 10 minute drive of the hotel. But beware, they do not deliver. And aren’t so great. Just google them! You can always try contacting the local Chabad to see if they can accommodate your family for a meal (and just give them a donation if you decide to dine here one evening).

 

Sunset Beach, Shelter Island

Shelter Island, NY

Optimum Seasons:  Summer

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It is a crime to be a resident of New York City and never have visited Shelter Island in your life.  I was inspired by a NY Times Article a friend linked me that gave an itinerary for the day.  Here is everything you need to know:

1)  Even though the ferry price is listed as $11 per vehicle one way from both the Greenport (North Fork) and Sag Harbor (South Fork) ferry services, it actually costs $13 per vehicle from Sag Harbor.  So if $2 makes a difference to you, do your round trip through Greenport.  Also, they charge per car per person.  So $11 per car plus $2 per person.  

2)  The North Fork of Long Island is picturesque and full of vineyards and farms.  Something to see in your life at least once.  But the South Fork is where all the action is.  The Hamptons are here!  There is a large and wealthy population!  Not only are there beautiful shops and towns and homes, but there are scenic vineyards and farms that rival those of the North Fork.  We took the Greenport Ferry to Shelter Island and the Sag Harbor Ferry back so we can dine at Il Capuccino (Amazing Italian food!!!  The big draw here is the complementary garlic knots they bring to the table.  And I also enjoyed my ravioli with pistachio sauce!) I was not satisfied with the Italian options on Shelter Island itself.  And there is no real charming Main Street on the Island (at least not that I found).

3)  As soon as we got off the Greenport Ferry in the morning, we drove up the hill to Marie Eiffel Market (which has an outdoor deck facing the harbor) We had our chocolate croissants and iced coffee facing the harbor and yachts.  I highly suggest getting your first bite here before you start your day on the island!  The cafe is one block down the hill from the newly renovated and quaint Chequit Inn.  This hotel is no place to go with young children as it is not stroller accessible.  And if you go here, go when it is a bit more affordable on a weekday.  If you want to make a road trip out of Shelter Island, I would totally stay here.  And the beautifully landscaped outdoor restaurant faces the harbor.

4)  After we ate at Marie Eiffel, we went to Picozzi's Bike Shop right around the corner, parked our car in the driveway, and rented a bike for one hour for $15.  Each bike comes with a helmet and a basket, but be careful to store your mobile phones in a bag as they can slip out.  We biked around Dering Harbor and Shelter Island Heights.  Look at a map and stay by the shoreline to see all the exquisite homes.  And remember, if you are not fit like me, be prepared for lots of hills and a spare oxygen tank in your car upon return.  I almost died.

5)  Have your bathing suit on and towels in a backpack that you place in the basket during the bike ride.  You can stop by Hay's Beach (free and much more private than the main draw: Sunset Beach).  There is no night life or restaurant here.  Just you and the sand and the water.  We didn't have towels so we couldn't relax here after a strenuous bike ride.  And if you don't want to rent a bike, you can still access Hay's Beach by car.  There are a few spots to park and it doesn't get crowded.  Spend a couple hours here before heading to Sunset Beach.

6)  We got to Sunset Beach by 1:30 and stayed four hours.  The sun would have set by 8:30 and my husband and I wanted to get back home for the kids. Otherwise, I'd have stayed here all day to catch the sunset and the alleged bumpin' night scene.  This beach is right across the Sunset Beach Hotel and Restaurant.  Onlynly permitted cars are allowed to park on weekdays (after 5pm, all cars can park).  Only permitted cars can park on weekends. However, if you drive down about 1/5th a mile, you will find free parking for all (to save some energy, make sure to drop off your beach chairs in the front and have your spouse park the car).  

So what can I say about Sunset Beach?  You feel like you are in the south of France when you are really just sandwiched between the North and South Fork.  I have seen charming beaches along the North Shore of Long Island. But nothing matches the crowd and vibe here.  You will feel like the Princess of Monaco.  Also, you can come here with your children (but my guess is those who did with young children either reside on the Island or were staying at a hotel).  There were paddle board rentals for $35 per person per hour and $60 per hour for two people.  If my husband and I weren't beat from the bike riding, we may have done this!  Also, we went on a 78 degree and sunny day.  The water was totally swimmable and clean and was the perfect temperature.  We forgot our beach umbrella so the cabana boy gave us one that belonged to the hotel and we tipped him a couple of bucks.  Also, I ran into a group of women who had ditched their husbands and children to enjoy a day here.  This doesn't have to be just a family oriented or romantic trip.  You can do a girls or guys day too!!!

7)  My husband and I were not entirely impressed with the menus at Sunset Beach Hotel Restaurant and the Pridwin Hotel restaurant (right down the block and also across the beach.  Even though they are both trendy...we did not want to eat fish after a long, arduous day.  But if you are good with being hungry your whole life, I highly suggest going to Shelter Island on a Wednesday in the summer to experience the all you can eat dining experience at the Pridwin Hotel (pictures included in the gallery).  The all you can eat is $42 per person and starts at 6:30pm.  It includes drinks and draft beer.  But no alcohol (keep dreaming!).  I checked out the buffet and it was mostly seafood which we don't eat.  So I skipped out on this otherwise amazing opportunity.

8)  As mentioned above, we left Sunset Beach early to dine at Sag Harbor, which is an adorable and historic town on the north part of the South Fork. The main street here reminded me of that of Greenwich, Port Washington, and Northport all fused into one.  I prefer the Main Street in Westhampton Beach, to tell you the truth, but this one is on the harbor and totally adorable in a different way.  You must see it if you do a day trip or road trip to Shelter Island.  Also, we dined at Il Capucino because we were in the mood for Italian food.  But there were far trendier restaurants along the Main Street.  Research before you go.  Every place looked super cute!

For a list of other beaches, click here.

Don't forget to check the gallery above (best viewed on desktop for captions), videos below, and add your feedback in the comments section! Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page.

 

Deal and Asbury Park

Deal and Asbury Park, NJ

price varies 

Optimum Seasons:  All Year Round

Ocean Place Resort

The Asbury Hotel

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Where do I start? This was truly one of my favorite road trips of all time. Here's a list of reasons why:

1)  The Asbury Hotel was just magnificent in every way.  1)  It has outdoor movies offered every night on the 5th floor rooftop.  I was told by a friend that they also have yoga every morning (ask the front desk).  The pool had the same vibe as a Miami boutique hotel.  The hotel itself was like a posh Brooklyn hotel with a great rooftop!  The Asbury is only one block away from the Asbury Park boardwalk and beach.  The hotel has valet parking which costs $20 per day.  I found a deal on tripadvisor.com for midweek and it was too amazing to pass on.  The neighboring and better priced Berkeley Hotel, which while renovated, is no where close to as charming as The Asbury.  The Berkeley is a half block closer to the beach, must cheaper, and is great bang for your buck.  If you don't find a good deal for The Asbury, just book the Berkeley instead.  

2)  Unfortunately, you have to pay to go to the beach before 4pm every day. The hotel doesn't offer free passes.  The front desk allege that it costs about $7 per person but I didn't inquire further when I got on the boardwalk.  The weather was too chilly to go swimming anyway.  We were able to enjoy the beach after 4pm though.  Tip:  bring sweaters!  This is a coastal town.  Figure it is ten degrees colder here than the forecast in your own inland town, and at night it gets pretty chilly (unless there is a heat wave that day).

3) The Asbury Park Boardwalk is absolutely adorable!!!!  You must try the fried oreos and the cannoli at the Ice Cream and Waffle Place located at the southern tip of the Asbury Park portion of the boardwalk.  From my hotel to that point was about a twenty minute walk with great restaurants at every corner.  And there are Fourth of July fireworks to boot!

4)  If you are bringing children, there are sprinklers and mini golf along the Asbury Park portion of the boardwalk. No need to just go to the beach. There is also a playground on the beach towards the southern end of the boardwalk! There are also murals all along the boardwalk, kind of like Wynwood neighborhood in Miami. Very cute for photo ops with or without the kids!

5)  You must experience the boardwalk at night!  And for an added bonus, dine at a restaurant here during sunset!  Have ipads for your children!  

6)  Walk through the Asbury Park Convention Hall on the boardwalk.  I don't know what this really is but it's frieken adorable.  Wikipedia "Asbury Park" for more details.  There's a lot of history here!

7)  Keep walking south on the Asbury Park boardwalk until you reach the Ocean Grove boardwalk (which according to wikipedia, parts were demolished during Hurricane Sandy).  This is just the most delicious beach town.  The homes are all Victorian.  Ten times more charming than any of the Hamptons, if you ask me!  Drive through this area and try to go through as many streets as you can.  It is just a 5 minute drive south of the Asbury Hotel. But you should walk the Boardwalk too.  There is also a great indoor restaurant on the northern most portion of the Ocean Grove boardwalk.  I believe it's called Dunes Cafe and it has panoramic views of the ocean (on the east side of the boardwalk and very close to the water.  Check the video below for an idea).  They serve ice cream, pizza, smoothies and much more. Google it for more info.  We ended up not dining here.  We were full on fried oreos.

8)  Drive through every street of Deal and Allenhurst, NJ.  Asbury Park is sandwiched between Deal and Allenhurst to the north and Ocean Grove to the south.  As I mentioned above, Ocean Grove is a Victorian and adorable town.  Deal is more affluent and the homes are on huge lots.  Kind of like the Hamptons meet Savannah, GA.  Nothing quite like the homes here. Allenhurst homes are similar but are on smaller plots of land.  It's actually more practical to go walking in this town so you see more homes.  The Deal homes are sometimes hidden behind long driveways.  Both are worth driving or taking a morning stroll through!  Allenhurst is sandwiched between Deal and Asbury Park.  This whole area is a grid along the beach.  There is no way to get lost. Ocean Avenue runs North and South and is a great street to drive on to get a good feel!

9)  Some Glatt kosher restaurants in the area:  Crispy Grill, Dougies, A Chinese/Japanese place (not so great) right next to Crispy Grill, Butcher's Cut, and Slices. There is also a Bravo pizza which is fantastic.

10)  Ocean Place Resort in Long Branch is just north of Deal. It is a fantastic hotel on the actual boardwalk with both an indoor and outdoor pool. It is a great option for road trips in colder months as it is significantly cheaper! Also, this is preferred to The Asbury hotel because it is both on the beach and access to the beach is free and lounge chairs are included. Also, the neighboring Pier Village and its shops and arcade are wonderful. There is a carousel on this boardwalk and the newly constructed boutique Wave Hotel which has an outdoor pool and is definitely worth booking if it’s comparable in price to Ocean Place Resort.

Click on the gallery above (best viewed on a desktop for captions), the video below of Dunes Cafe in Ocean Grove, and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below!  Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page!

Wave Hotel

Wave Hotel

Ocean Place Outdoor Pool

 

Yotel NYC - Theater District

Hells Kitchen/Theater District, NY

price varies 

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Yotel on TripAdvisor.com

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Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or you are looking for a budget-friendly place to stay with children (some rooms come with bunk beds!!!  Check the hotel's website linked above), Yotel is your best bet!!!  Every time I searched for hotels on TripAdvisor.com, Yotel was often listed as the most affordable as well as trendy.  And I always wanted to stay here to see why on earth it is priced so moderately.  So our ninth anniversary was the perfect opportunity to stay overnight.  Here are some things to know and to do in the area, besides enjoying the uniqueness and charm of the futuristic hotel itself.

1)  The hotel is located on 42nd and 10th Avenue, just two avenues away from Times Square and the Theater District.  For those who love Broadway, this is a nice way to catch a late show with the kids and stay overnight and not drain your pockets.

2)  Request for a north facing room on a high floor and preferably a corner.  And if you go in the summer months and have money to spare, definitely book a room with an outdoor hot tub (there are only a few and they look super sexy for an anniversary or date night!).  If you have kids and come across a great deal like I did ($110 per night), it may even be worth it to get two adjacent rooms and make sure one has a bunk bed because it is just that cool!  Beware the rooms are very small but are still worth the price!  And the showers are fantastic!  As is the lounge in the lobby!

3)  There are loads of dining options in the area.  But I couldn't find anything super trendy.  So we settled on a place called Sushi Seki Times Square which was ranked high on all the "best sushi in Manhattan" lists.  But neither my husband nor I were impressed.  Perhaps we didn't order the right thing.  But this wasn't worth our time.  

4)  My husband and I were torn between going to a show (way too expensive and neither of us are particularly into plays or musicals) and a spa.  After navigating Groupon for an hour, my husband just decided to google spas close to us.  We found the best option within one block of our hotel.  Located on 42nd right between 10th and 11th Avenues was a spa that met our needs.  Spa Envy had heated beds, offered tea and refreshments and snacks, and was able to give us a last minute appointment for two (in one room).  A lot of "spas" in Manhattan are holes in the wall so be careful before you book.  We had made that mistake in the past.  We preferred a nicer spa experience this time and we were more than pleased with our massages and the place.

5)  For some reason, February of 2018 was unusually warm.  We decided to walk down a couple of Avenues to Pier 81 in Hudson River Park right on the river.  This is right next to the Intrepid Museum (great for kids) and has spectacular sunsets.  And is super romantic.  Consider perhaps renting a bike in the warmer months and riding down the path.

6)  Just walk around all of midtown holding hands.  There are landmarks at every turn (Times Square, Central Park, 5th Avenue, Saks, Rockefeller Center, etc. etc)!  And of course stop by Bryant Park and have a hot chocolate and a warm waffle with a scoop of ice cream!  It''s just 4 avenues away!  

7)  We were so unsatisfied with dinner that we were adamant on having a fantastic breakfast.  And that is exactly what we found one block away located on 42nd Street between 10th and 11th Avenue.  Rustic Table is an Israeli owned bakery/breakfast restaurant that has a great menu and a great vibe.  We fell in love with the owner Edan who had a great spirit. Just literally order anything here and you'll be more than satisfied!  

Click on the gallery above and videos below and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section!  Follow me on intagram and facebook for live adventures!  And share with your friends if you appreciate.

 

Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

price varies 

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Doubletree by Hilton Center City

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This was by far my favorite road trip of all time.  Who knew Philadelphia, a city just two hours away from NYC by car, had so much to offer?  We chose to visit Philly during New Year's weekend as it is full of holiday themed events.  It is also much cheaper than staying in NYC itself.  Here are some things to know before you go:

1)  First comes choosing a hotel.  Hotels on New Year's Eve are expensive in Philadelphia.  You are probably gonna spend double the night of January 31st at any hotel than you would otherwise.  The good thing is you don't have to stay the extra night.  The fireworks on the Delaware River start at 6pm for the kids (there is another show at midnight) leaving ample time to get home by bedtime.  Philly is at most a three hour drive away from NYC (if there is traffic).  We chose to stay just because there the Mummers Parade is on New Year's day.  

So as always for us, hotels need to have an indoor pool when we are traveling in the winter.  Our budget gave us a few options:   1)  Hilton Home2Suites (Cheapest.  Had a very small pool with no jacuzzi.  Nice decor.  Included breakfast in the price which is only offered till 9am.  Had the biggest rooms including kitchenette.  In a decent location); 2)  Hilton Garden Inn (Second cheapest.  Big indoor pool which included jacuzzi.  Very dated decor.  Had breakfast on the 17th floor in a nice room overlooking the city for an additional price.  Decent sized rooms.  In a good location); 3) Double Tree by Hilton (Second most expensive.  Had a nice and decent sized pool and a jacuzzi according to a third party website.  Turned out the pictures were from eight years ago and were falsely advertised by a form guest who uploaded them.  Did not include breakfast in the price but had on property for $17 per person and was not worth it.  If you have access to the club lounge, you're getting bagels, drinks, pastries and a dish-of-the-day all for free. Nice decor and lobby.  Some rooms include kitchenettes.  Decent size rooms.  In a fantastic location right in the heart of the city and on the street of the parade.  Views from parade available from street side rooms, club lounge and lobby.  And remember, all Doubletrees by Hilton offer complimentary warm chocolate chip cookies at the front desk!)  And 4)  Sheraton Society Hill (Most expensive by far.  Best indoor pool of them all.  Nice decor and lobby.  Breakfast not included in price.  Big rooms.  In a location that was decent but if you are familiar with NYC, not in Philly's "midtown" but rather its "Soho".  A few blocks away from the fireworks show.  If you have a Starwood Hotel membership, best to book Sheraton through www.spg.com.  Or a Hilton membership go through their site.  For all other booking, www.tripadvisor.com will give you the best rates.  And btw, we chose the Doubletree by Hilton on Broad Street.  

2)  Mummers Parade is like "Alaskan Mardi Gras" as put by my friend.  It goes on throughout the day on Broad Street but if you walk through the town, you'll see people handing out necklaces and sipping on disguised alcohol in soda cans.  I ran into two minions who were doing such.  This is definitely a fun experience for the children.  We happened to be there the coldest weekend in Philadelphia's recent history, but if you are bundled up enough, you can totally enjoy this parade outside.  And if it's too brutal for your taste, you have magnificent views from inside the hotel if you are staying at the Doubletree by Hilton.

3)  As mentioned above, there are fireworks on New Year's Eve both at 6pm and midnight.  The problem is the crowd can get very big.  You have a few options to beat this traffic.  1)  Book tickets to the Camden Adventure Aquarium right across the Delaware River with amazing views of the fireworks.  Could watch either inside or outside.  Magnificent either way.  And by far the best option with children 2)  Park in the Dave and Busters parking lot just a quarter of a mile North on the Delaware River.  You won't get the best views but you'll have space to watch.  And parking is only $7 per vehicle.  3)  You can purchase tickets in advance for ice skating at the Blue Cross RiverRink on the Waterfront as well as for parking on Market and Walnut Street http:www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/1583205.  4)  Some rooms in high rise hotels have views of the fireworks.  But you'd be pressing your luck.  My room fortunately did but I had to twist every part of my body to get a good angle.

4)  Ice skating at the Rothman Institute Ice Rink (with a heated indoor cabin) at Dilworth Park was incredible during the holiday season.  1)  Adjacent and historic City Hall serves as a beautiful backdrop with Deck the Hall Light Show projected on the building every hour on the hour (or half hour on weekends) through January 1st.  2)  Price of skates and skating is very affordable.  Get a group of ten and you'll save $2 per person.  3)  Walk around the popup maze-meets-garden adorned with twinkling mini-lights at magical Dilworth Park!  4)  Check out the christmas tree on the north side of City Hall as well as the Masonic Temple.  5)  Stop by the Grand Court in the National Historic Landmark Wanamaker Building (Macy's) on the east side of City Hall for a magical Christmas Light Show.  Occurs every two hours.  We were lucky to walk in coincidentally as a show started.  

5)  Make sure to stop by (or at least drive by) Franklin Square Park for their Holiday Festival featuring Electrical Spectacle Holiday Light Show.  Two alternating shows take place every 30 minutes each night beginning at 4:30pm and continuing until 8pm on Sundays through Thursdays (this park is located right off the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.  On Fridays and Saturdays, shows goes until 9pm.  Each evening, one lucky participant from the crowd gets to ignite the festivities.   

6)  Visit the Camden Adventure Aquarium (not as good as the one I visited in Toronto a few years earlier, but still amazing!!)  Generous group rates are offered for a group of 20 or more people if purchased in advance.  I'm talking half the price.  This aquarium is on the Jersey side of the Delaware River and offers amazing views of the fireworks.  Best to go here on New Years Eve as they also offer a DJ dance party and extended hours through 6pm.  If you are going any other time of the year, it is still worth it!  You can kill two birds with one stone on a trip to nearby Sesame Place.  

7)  Visit the Museum of Art (if not to go inside, at least park outside the building and run to the top of the museum steps for a triumphant Rocky pose.)  This is iconic Philly.  Definitely drive by and then drive north on Kelly Drive by Boathouse Row.  Best to do this during dawn.  Also, Philadelphia is a city of many museums.  They are all worth seeing from the outside.  There are many of them located near the Museum of Art.  For pre-school aged children, there is also neighboring Please Touch Museum (People rave about.  If there is not enough time to hit this up on this trip, do it when you visit Sesame Place which is just a 20 minute drive from Philly).  If you have older children, Franklin Institute of Science is also nearby.  

8)  I didn't have enough time to see Philadelphia's Magic Gardens from the inside (there is an admission fee) but the drive by was good enough.  PMG is a nonprofit visionary art environment and community arts center located in Isaiah Zagar's largest public artwork.  Read more fascinating details on the side.  Also, South Street is very hip but is better to visit during the warmer seasons.  Too bad we didn't get to explore enough of this area.  

9)  There are plenty of vegan restaurants in Center City Philadelphia for those who observe a strict diet.  Kosher is also abundant in their suburbs (within 20 minute drive of Center City).  Just google to see where they are.  I hate to shit on any establishment, but it's probably best you never step food inside Esti's Besties Vegetarian unless you like rude and border-line senile waiters and tasteless pizza.  Try Shalom Pizza on the west side of the city because although I never tried it, anything is better than the service we received at this asshole-ridden-shithole.  My apologies in advance to anyone related to anyone who works here.  

10)  My biggest regrets were not stopping by (although we drove by) both the historic Liberty Bell Center and Independence Hall (across the street from eachother) and Elfreth's Alley, the oldest residential street in the US.  This is the most important of all sites in Philadelphia and is a beautifully preserved colonial street featuring original Georgian brick architecture spanning centuries of history.  This is a pedestrian path only and probably the closest thing to Notting Hill west of the Prime Meridian.  Another regret was not stopping by the Italian Market (it was way too cold).  But this may be a fun place to visit during the warmer months.  And also Readers Terminal Market (we actually went but they were closed by 9pm.  Comparable to NYC's Chelsea Market.  

On the way home after your Christmas/New Years road trip and if you take the Verrazano Narrows Bridge, it's best to dfive by Dyker Heights for the best of the best in residential christmas lights.  This is totally on your way home!  And worth the extra 15 minutes.  

Also, if you travel in the warmer months, you may have another itinerary altogether.  Definitely add Philadelphia Zoo to your list!  The oldest zoo in the country!  

Definitely view the gallery above and videos below for a better idea.  Please add your feedback in the comments section and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for live adventures.  And don't forget to share with your friends if you appreciate this page.  

 

Jersey City

Jersey City, NJ

price varies 

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

Westin Jersey City Newport

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Here are some highlights of my trip and general things to know about a road trip or vacation to Jersey City:

1)  Basically, the idea was to get as close to Manhattan as possible, with an indoor pool for the kids and a reasonably priced hotel (literally a fraction of the cost of what you'd find in the city).  Two hotels in Jersey City fit the bill:  Westin of Newport and Hyatt Regency.  Westin was the cheaper of the two.  And closer to the NJ Path station which gets you into downtown Manhattan in less than 15 minutes.  And the indoor pool looked bigger.  So this was a no brainer for us.  But if you ever find a cheaper deal for the Hyatt, it definitely looks sexier as it is literally on the Hudson River surrounding by water and has panoramic views of Manhattan's downtown skyline.

2)  To tell you the truth, I also picked Jersey City because one of me and my husband's favorite couple friends lives here and we rarely get to see them.  So I figured I'd kill two birds with one stone and visit them and get a good trip out of it because otherwise, who from Long Island would ever pay two tolls to cross both the East River and the Hudson???  They proved to be wonderful tour guides who showed us a good time and took us to Prato Bakery (pictured in the gallery) which was super adorable and delicious.  They also showed us Newark Avenue, a pedestrian walk way with lots of boutique stores and restaurants.  We felt the true Jersey City vibe once we went out with them.  It kind of felt like Miami meets Long Island City (not as congested) meets a nicer more charming version of Williamsburg.  

3)  For those who are Kosher, Jersey City is a plus at is about a 20 minute drive away from Teaneck, NJ and a few minutes away from Manhattan.  Remember to do thorough research if you want to order or go to a restaurant on a Saturday night.  Many Kosher restaurants do not open on Saturday nights, even though we went over thanksgiving weekend when sundown is much earlier than it is other seasons.  Best to call in advance and see which is open and which is ready to deliver (probably via Uber).  I learned this the hard way as I dragged nine families via NJ Path to the Oculus promising them that downtown Kosher Bravo Pizza (a few blocks south of Oculus on Trinity Street) was open (as they had actually told me), only to find that they were indeed FUCKIN CLOSED!  For those who aren't Kosher, Jersey City is literally packed with great restaurants as is downtown Manhattan.  So, no losing for you!

4)  Definitely walk the Newport Boardwalk during the day if the weather is warm enough.  Remember to bundle up as Jersey City is on the water and may be a bit colder than where you are from.   The boardwalk is just a block away from the hotel.

5)  There is a mall with Macy's, The Cheesecake Factory, Cosi, Kohls and more right next door to the hotel.  My husband went inside and said it was quite nice.  No high end shopping here but enough to kill a few hours with the kids.  There is also a Starbucks on the water one block away from the hotel.  

6)  You would be an idiot to come all this way and not visit Libery State Park (with the closest views of Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty).  They also have a playground for kids.  Make sure to bundle up here!!!

7)  You would be a bigger idiot to come all this way (sorry to all families I traveled with who didn't follow my suggestion) and not go to the Liberty Science Center, a world class children's museum.  Better than any I have experience on the Island or Manhattan.  Definitely something to see.  Admission is rather high, but who really cares?  You'll never make the voyage otherwise!  Videos below and pictures in the gallery will explain it all.

8)  I'm a big view person.  I throw vicious tantrums when the front desk doesn't hook me up with a good room.  Normal people are not like this.  But if you are anything like me, make sure to request a room on a high floor with a city view, and flirt a little bit with whoever is behind the front desk.  

9)  The NJ Path is literally a block away from the hotel.  You pay $2.50 each way per adult to get into downtown Manhattan that is three stops away (including one easy transfer).  The train will get you into the Oculus, which itself is a site to see.  Be sure to travel west of the Oculus to see the 9/11 memorial (really mesmerizing at night), the beautiful Freedom Tower, and Brookfield Place for high end shopping (even though Oculus itself is a great mall!)  Stores in Brookfield Place include Gucci, Bottega Vonneta, Saks Fifth Avenue, Louis Vitton and more.  Also, there is an ice skating rink outside that is a must with the children in the winter.  Beautiful views of the Hudson (try to get here during sundown) and Christmas decorations as well!  And pretty affordable for ice skating in the city.  My biggest regret was not skating when we came here. 

Definitely view the gallery above and videos below for a better idea.  Please add your feedback in the comments section and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for live adventures.  And don't forget to share with your friends if you appreciate this page.  

 

Toronto and Niagara Falls, Canada

Toronto, Niagara Falls, Niagara on the Lake, Canada

price varies

Optimum Seasons:  Summer

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I went to Toronto for a week in the summer of 2015.  Last I was there was twenty years ago.  I decided to go back with my children and husband to kill a few birds with one stone:  1) visit my sister and her children and husband who live there; and 2) visit Niagara Falls over the 4th of July weekend.  Last time I went, I had a mustache, braces, a 24/7 doody bun, and a 5 person family crammed in a maroon Nissan Maxima with no cell phone, no ipad, and no cd player.  We drove from NYC to Niagara Falls for a couple days, and then to Toronto.  The drive was at least 8 hours and on the way we stopped at some waterfalls in upstate New York....all before google maps.  I can't imagine how much more charming this drive would be with an SUV and communication devices.  But I was so traumatized that I decided to take a flight to Toronto this time and drive to Niagara falls which is one and a half hours away.  The flight costs a lot of money for such a short distance because of international tax, so I highly recommend driving and googling about things to do on the drive to Toronto from NYC.  It would be a great experience with the children!

Anyway, we stayed at my sister's beautiful home for a week.  She was basically our Toronto tour guide.  She told us the musts: go to Ripley's Aquarium of Canada (in downtown Toronto), take a ferry from downtown to Centre Island (a magical island with beautiful views of the Toronto skyline, an amusement park, beautiful gardens, concession stands, and a beach), experience a Toronto Blue Jays game, take a drive through Toronto's affluent neighborhoods of Bridle Path and Forest Hills, and enjoy designer shopping on Bloor Street and Yorkville.   Toronto has come a long way in the 20 years since I've been there.  The skyline is ever evolving, and the city is so clean and beautiful.  And Canadians are all so nice!  I highly recommend this trip with the family.  Except mass transit in Toronto is horrific and you should get ready for massive traffic.  Best to get a hotel in downtown Toronto!

My second leg of the vacation was a weekend getaway to Niagara Falls which was only a one and a half hour drive from Toronto.  We stayed in the Hilton which was a couple of blocks from the Horseshoe Falls.  Make sure you request a falls view room on a higher floor. It gives you the most magnificent view of the two falls and the entire neighborhood.  And you get to watch the 4th of July fireworks on the American side while your children sleep soundly in bed. The Hilton has a great indoor pool as well.  The Niagara Falls neighborhood is very small and very easy to navigate.  Just get a map from the front desk of your hotel.  This trip is a rite of passage for all children who live in NYC! Definitely go once as a family!

On our drive back to my sister's home in Toronto, we stopped by Niagara on the Lake, which is Toronto's Hamptons!  It was such a beautiful and charming town with great places to dine outdoors.  Ask one of the locals which way to the lake and they'll point you in the right direction.  It's worth the three block walk!  You won't be disappointed!  There are also lots of wineries between Niagara Falls and Niagara on the Lake.  No shortage of things to do!  My pictures in the gallery cover it all!  

Check out the videos below of our view of the fireworks from the Hilton room in Niagara Falls.  And the Hilton penthouse restaurant (where we had our daily breakfast).  Also, you'll get an idea of how spectacular the Ripley's Aquarium is!

Click on the gallery above (best viewed on a desktop for captions), the videos below to get a better sense of the area, and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below!  Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page!

Sesame Place Theme Park

Langhorne, PA

price varies for hotels; price for parking is $20; prices for park available on www.sesameplace.com

Hotels:  Spring Hill Suites 

Optimum Seasons:  Summer

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"Go before they grow" is the Sesame Place slogan!  Here's a list of things to know before you go:

1)  I'd say it's best to go here before your oldest kid is 7 years old.  Or just take your younger kids!  

2) This park is only 14 acres.  To put things in perspective, I know a few people who own residential properties one third that size.  This is NOT a big amusement park. Especially after losing my amusement park virginity to Disney World, this was very small in comparison.  One day will get the job done here!  One long day!  But if your commute is long, staying overnight is a good idea.  Anyway, your $50 per person ticket (offered on the Sesame Place website) can be used for two days any time of the year.  May as well book a hotel close by, or as we did, across the street to avoid parking fees and for general convenience, just to go two days in a row.  This way, you can perhaps go on day trips to either nearby Philadelphia, Adventure Aquarium, Crayola Museum, Please Touch Museum, Giggle Berry Fair, and more.  Or, you can do water rides on one day and dry rides another.  You will be less rushed this way!

3)  This is neither an amazing water park (Splish Splash is better for older kids) nor an amazing amusement park (Adventure Land is better for young and old children alike).  The big draw here is the character meets, the shows, and the parade (night time preferable as weather is cooler).  Which make it all worth it in the end!  And for me, the landscaping.  Half the entry fee is probably spent on maintaining the beautiful grounds.  

4)  Go midweek.  Never go on a weekend.  And go when there is 20 percent chance of rain as we accidentally did.  (If it rains for more than 2 hours, you literally get a rain check.)  There are virtually no lines this way!  Do not go the last two weeks of August as I have been told they are the busiest time of the year.

5)  If you are a girl, be prepared to have chronic wedgies.  Unless you avoid the water slides.  And unless your butt is tiny.  And G-d has been good to you. Then, you are safe.

6)  I was a bit surprised by the general lack of enthusiasm by the staff.  Maybe I'm just comparing this service to that of Disney World, where every employee is on Nice Steroids.  But most of the people working here had braces and were going through puberty.  Which means they'd rather be going to first base than telling children to stand behind the line during a Sesame Place parade.  But they were all nice regardless!  

7)  The food kind of tastes like high-end airplane food.  And there are no good restaurants or supermarkets within a half mile radius.  Pack wisely for the day! This just in:  a number have you have counter claimed that there actually is food around the area!  But I was too blindsided by the Home Depot and BJ's to realize!  Allegedly, there is a Red Robin, TGI Fridays, and Ground Round close by.  And if you drive 10 minutes away, there are great restaurants that aren't chains.  But I'm sticking to my word, there was basically NOTHING!  I want food to go...and there was none of that anywhere close.  

8)  If you want a break from amusement parking, there are a few good strip centers around the area.  Just shop at Nordstrom Rack and TJ Maxx while your husband slaves away with your children.  

9)  I stayed at the Spring Hill Suites across the street.  This way, I avoided paying a parking fee.  But it was way overpriced.  Basically, I have stayed in boutique hotels as expensive as this.  It is a nice, clean, renovated hotel.  The continental breakfast is yucky. If you find a deal here, go for it.  If not, stay elsewhere and just take a shuttle to the park!  If you are flexible, try offering a price on priceline.com for the best rates on hotels nearby (but you won't get the hotel you want necessarily)

10)  There are groupon deals in May and June (I totally missed that one!).  Keep your eyes out on groupon.  You may get lucky and find a good price! Also, if you book for a group of 15 plus, there is a special rate (contact Sesame Place directly about this?)  But I didn't do enough research before purchasing so I'm really not certain about how to get the best price!  

11)  There are fireworks on 3rd and 4th of July!  Can imagine this being magical!

12)  Download the Sesame Place app before you go to familiarize yourself with the rides.  And remember, the water rides are best for an 85 plus day when you dream of getting wet under a waterfall on the lazy river!

Tips:  Bring bathing suits and towels!  Always check www.groupon.com for deals before you go.  

Click on the gallery above (best viewed on a desktop for captions) and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below! Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page!

 

Sheraton Parsippany Hotel

Parsippany, NJ

price varies

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton

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This is a very charming hotel with a beautiful and spacious lobby, a wonderful breakfast bouffet room offered to those who have Starwood points, and breakfast to those who pay the extra price.  Love the indoor pool and adjacent exercise room here too!  Check their website for more images and pricing.  I went here during a Thanksgiving long weekend and I loved the Christmas decorations.  The rooms are very spacious and clean.  

Kill a few birds with one stone:  Try nearby Woodbury Commons for outlet shopping and great prices!

Click on the gallery above to view pictures and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below!  And follow me on facebook and instagram to catch live adventures!  Share the page with friends if you appreciate!

 

Doral Arrowwood, White Plains, NY

White Plains, NY

price varies

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

www.doralarrowwood.com

Located in Westchester, this is a very charming hotel close to very charming neighborhoods.  My favorite is its heated indoor/outdoor pool (in the summer, I understand it is all outdoor!  There are lots of amenities offered for children and an excellent daily breakfast offered in their gorgeous dining hall with breathtaking views of the adjacent golf course!  Call to get a group rate if going with friends, and remember to request a room closer to the lobby (lots of long hallways here!) with a golf course view if you are as particular as I am about hotel experiences!

Kill a few birds with one stone:  Greenwich, CT is the must see neighboring town.  Very affluent with beautiful homes.  Google "nicest neighborhoods or streets of Greenwich and head there for some house site seeing!  Greenwich Avenue is a half mile stretch of high end shops and boutiques.  There weren't many restaurants open on New Year's day when we went, nor clothing stores, but we still enjoyed our experience.  The Saks Fifth Avenue here pales in comparison to that in NYC.  Drive around the neighborhood of Belle Haven (a lot of streets are private so you won't have access unless you have balls to drive through.  But there are many streets along the Long Island Sound that are worth seeing) which is a peninsula surrounded by water at the very southern tip of Greenwich Avenue.  If there is a neighborhood to see in Greenwich, this is it!  Skip the others!  The lot sizes are too big to even see the homes!  Also, for a sand beach, visit Greenwich Point Park (in Old Greenwich). This may or may not be a private beach so you should give them a call before you go, but I just drove by in the winter and it was beautiful!

Also, for children, Legoland is very close by as is Rye Amusement Park (which is situated on the Long Island Sound...both are on my bucket list of things to do with my kids!)  Google both these places for pictures, prices and more information.  That's what I'd do before I'd go ; )

For shopping, head to The Galleria Mall at White Plains.  Lots of high end department stores and good on a cold day to walk around indoors with children!

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Hyatt Regency, Old Greenwich, CT

Old Greenwich, CT

price varies

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

www.greenwich.regency.hyatt.com

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I was drawn to this hotel through www.tripadvisor.com (will find you the website that offers the cheapest rate) because of it's affordable price, great indoor poor, ecosystem lobby, and excellent breakfast (included in the price)!  As well as being in Old Greenwich, a beautiful neighborhood within an hour drive from my home.  

Kill a few birds with one stone:  Greenwich, CT is the must see neighboring town.  Very affluent with beautiful homes.  Google "nicest neighborhoods or streets of Greenwich and head there for some house site seeing!  Greenwich Avenue is a half mile stretch of high end shops and boutiques.  There weren't many restaurants open on New Year's day when we went, nor clothing stores, but we still enjoyed our experience.  The Saks Fifth Avenue here pales in comparison to that in NYC.  Drive around the neighborhood of Belle Haven (a lot of streets are private so you won't have access unless you have balls to drive through.  But there are many streets along the Long Island Sound that are worth seeing) which is a peninsula surrounded by water at the very southern tip of Greenwich Avenue.  If there is a neighborhood to see in Greenwich, this is it!  Skip the others!  The lot sizes are too big to even see the homes!  Also, for a sand beach, visit Greenwich Point Park (in Old Greenwich). This may or may not be a private beach so you should give them a call before you go, but I just drove by in the winter and it was beautiful!

Click on the gallery above (best viewed on a desktop for captions), the videos below to get a better sense of the area, and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below!  Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page!

 

Crowne Plaza, Stamford CT

Stamford, CT

price varies

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

www.crowneplaza.com

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I stumbled upon this hotel purely by accident.  One of my friends yelped "kosher restaurants" near our hotel in Old Greenwich (the neighboring town) and we found a Kosher restaurant called "Soosh".  We put it in our navigation and noticed that the restaurant was in this hotel.  We didn't realize there were parking spots for the restaurant right in front and we accidentally parked in the hotel's lot in the back.  We walked through the hotel lobby to find a Shabbaton occurring (during Hanukkah with thousands of lit menorahs...pretty surreal).  Once we found our way to the restaurant, we asked the owner what the Shabbaton was all about, and he told us that this is a weekly occurrence. The hotel lobby was immaculate...as though I walked into a Miami Southbeach hotel!  After I got home I went on the hotel's website to see if it's worth staying there, and I was shocked by how spacious and well decorated the rooms were.  And some of the rooms have kitchens as well!  (Just look at the website).  And the price during winter break is very affordable!  Tip:  "Soosh" was the best Kosher sushi I ever had. They have a kid's menu as well and they hand out crayons and pages to color!  Great service, great menu!  All around amazing experience!  

Kill a few birds with one stone:  Greenwich, CT is the must see neighboring town.  Very affluent with beautiful homes.  Google "nicest neighborhoods or streets of Greenwich and head there for some house site seeing!  Greenwich Avenue is a half mile stretch of high end shops and boutiques.  There weren't many restaurants open on New Year's day when we went, nor clothing stores, but we still enjoyed our experience.  The Saks Fifth Avenue here pales in comparison to that in NYC.  Drive around the neighborhood of Belle Haven (a lot of streets are private so you won't have access unless you have balls to drive through.  But there are many streets along the Long Island Sound that are worth seeing) which is a peninsula surrounded by water at the very southern tip of Greenwich Avenue.  If there is a neighborhood to see in Greenwich, this is it!  Skip the others!  The lot sizes are too big to even see the homes!  Also, for a sand beach, visit Greenwich Point Park (in Old Greenwich). This may or may not be a private beach so you should give them a call before you go, but I just drove by in the winter and it was beautiful!

Click on the gallery above (best viewed on a desktop for captions), the videos below to get a better sense of the area, and add your feedback by clicking on the comments section below!  Follow me on Instagram and Facebook to see my next adventure!  And share with your friends if you appreciate this page!