Upper West Side, NY

Admission Fee and street parking

Optimum Seasons:  Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall

www.amnh.org

I have only been here once in my life.  As an elementary school girl.  And on a field trip.  I had a mustache and pimples and was bored to pieces.  It turned me off to the entire museum experience for life.   That's why you see I so seldom post about indoor museums. They just don't fascinate me in any way.  Even though this is one of the most magnificent in the world, I'd rather just walk by and marvel at the architecture from the outside.  And then, go to Central Park across the street and enjoy life.  

But my friend's snap one summer weekend had me intrigued.  She found a gourmet kosher pizza restaurant called Saba's Pizza on Amsterdam Avenue and 79th Street.  She alleges it was one of her best kosher pizza experiences. There are loads of other great kosher restaurants nearby for those who keep strict kashrut.  

Then they decided to go here, and visited the planetarium as well.  They visited the second floor which has a deck with tables and umbrellas and a whole section where you can tan.  They also have sprinklers for children here. And if that's not enough, just head over to Central Park with your children. There are amazing playgrounds all around and the Shakespeare Garden in close by.  

Also, if you live close, this is the place to be on Halloween day (followed by Upper West Side trick or treating!  Click the link for more info!